Escapee, former Iolan, still at-large

News

April 21, 2012 - 12:00 AM

Former Iolan Eric James remained at large Friday after escaping with three others from the Ottawa County Jail in Minneapolis, about 120 miles northwest of Topeka, earlier in the week.

Two of the fugitives were back in custody Thursday morning and the third, Santos Carrera-Morales, 22, later was apprehended.

James, also 22, briefly attended Iola Middle School. He was convicted of three counts of burglary and kidnapping in Anderson County, for home invasions, and two counts of criminal damage to property in Allen County.

Anyone with information that might be helpful with James’ apprehension is encouraged to call 911, the Iola Police Department, 365-4960, or Allen County Sheriff’s Department, 365-1400.

 Authorities said James should be considered armed and dangerous.

The four men were among 22 inmates who had been transferred in January from the Ellsworth Correctional Facility to help alleviate overcrowding. The Ottawa County Jail passed an inspection before it was permitted to house prison inmates.

The inmates, armed with homemade knives, escaped from the jail after complaining about a broken water main in the holding cell area. Guards who tried to intervene suffered minor injuries.

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