James David Myers, 47, the escaped inmate from the Mansfield Correctional Institution (ManCI) was apprehended this evening by employees at the Olivesburg General Store. Official at the Ohio Department of Rehabilitation and Correction (DRC) confirmed that Myers was taken into custody by the Ohio State Highway Patrol at 6:42 p.m. without incident.
Myers had gone into the store and was recognized, reported Lt. Anne Ralston of the Ohio State Highway Patrol. The Richland County Sheriff’s Department received a 9-1-1 call from the store at 6:18 p.m. and relayed the call to the Highway Patrol. Troopers were dispatched to the store where they were met by a store employee who told them Myers was detained.
The troopers found Myers bound with twine and they handcuffed him and removed the binding. The Patrol transported him to ManCI for identification. Other troopers arrived to interview the witnesses.
According to store owner, Connie Krossen employees and customers recognized Myers when he entered the store. “ We had a picture of him posted here on the counter for everybody to recognize him.” Krossen stated. She shared that employees and local citizens present remained calm and contacted the authorities by stepping outside. Upon returning, they made a decision.
“They decided they needed something.” Krossen said. A customer reportedly tackled Myers. The group subdued him with the rope-like material found in the back of the store. Authorities arrived shortly thereafter and took Myers into custody.
“We understand they [store employees] felt it was important to take actions,” said Lt. Ralston, “While we certainly do not endorse that action [because of the danger], we’re happy that he is back in the prison and that no one was hurt while he was in the store.”
DRC thanked the Ohio State Highway Patrol, Richland County Sheriff’s Department, Mansfield Police Department, U.S. Marshals Northeast Ohio Fugitive Task Force and the Akron Police Department for the coordinated assistance provided in apprehending inmate Myers, as well as members of the public who provided information throughout the course of the incident.
Myers escaped ManCI on July 3. His escape was identified as a result of the 9 p.m. inmate check. At this time, it is not known how he escaped.He was, however, assigned maintenance duties at the facility.
Myers was admitted to ManCI from Summit County in December 2010, on charges of kidnapping, rape, corruption with drugs, aggravated burglary, menacing by stalking, and weapons under disability (unauthorized possession).
