Kathan Guzman, a convicted murderer, was mistakenly released from the Clayton County Jail in Georgia, igniting a series of events that led to his recapture in Ocoee, Florida. Guzman was recently sentenced to life in prison for the 2022 slaying of his then-girlfriend, 19-year-old Delila Grayson. A clerical error led to his release on March 27th. The oversight was only recently revealed this past Tuesday when staff with the Clayton County District Attorney’s Office realized the error.
Guzman’s initial conviction was based on a heinous crime that horrified the Denver community. After a trial that exposed the horror of the murder, in October 2024 he was sentenced to life. That unforeseen release had an immediate and deep impact on law enforcement officials.
When federal authorities admitted their mistake, a manhunt for Guzman was soon underway. Using his cell phone location data, investigators were able to follow his movements outside of Georgia, eventually tracking him to Ocoee, Florida. The fine work of the U.S. Marshals Service apprehending him without incident on Friday morning ensured that he would not escape facing justice.
The details leading up to Guzman’s release are still being looked into. Clayton County Sheriff Levon Allen issued a statement indicating disciplinary actions were forthcoming for those involved in the mistake.
“The cause of the release is under investigation, and disciplinary actions are pending.” – Clayton County Sheriff Levon Allen
In the meantime, Guzman is still in custody, in Florida, as his extradition back to Georgia is processed. The U.S. Marshals Service has not yet replied to requests for comment. Why they won’t say They’re still refusing to provide any details about the arrest or the continuing investigation.
The unfortunate and likely accidental release of a convicted murderer shines new light on what should already be a robust set of protocols established at correctional facilities. Authorities have said they’re committed to determining what caused such a glaring failure in judgment.