MUSKINGUM COUNTY, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—A series of arrests has been made following a failed escape attempt by Wayne S. Pletcher from the Muskingum County Jail on February 1, 2025.
The case has revealed a tangled web of family and friends who became embroiled in Pletcher’s escape, ultimately leading to significant prison sentences for those involved.
Pletcher, 38, escaped the facility with the help of several accomplices, an arguably ill-advised decision that cost him dearly. Initially facing a maximum sentence of 36 months for his original charges, his actions have now resulted in the potential for as much as 16 additional years in prison for related offenses.
During his escape, Pletcher switched the license plate on Laken Hammond’s van with a stolen one, which was later found abandoned in a cemetery in Chandlersville. He has since pleaded guilty to three charges: Escape, a second-degree felony carrying a maximum sentence of 12 years; Tampering with Evidence, a third-degree felony with a maximum of 36 months; and Receiving Stolen Property, a fifth-degree felony with a maximum of 12 months. The exact terms of Pletcher’s sentence will be determined at his upcoming court hearing, where the judge will decide whether his sentences will be served concurrently or consecutively.
The Accomplices:
Sara E. Moore, 31, was pivotal in Pletcher’s escape. She answered a call from him on the day of the escape, agreeing to help him flee the jail. Video footage captured the pair running from the jail to Moore’s car. Although they evaded capture temporarily, they were apprehended on February 4 at the home of Eliveea Largent and Leona DeJesus. Moore has pleaded guilty to two charges: Complicity in the Commission of an Offense, a second-degree felony, and Obstructing Justice, a third-degree felony, facing a maximum of 11 years in prison.
Laken Hammonds, who lent her van for the escape, has also pleaded guilty to two counts of Obstructing Justice, facing a maximum sentence of six years. Similarly, Lindsey Richards faces a maximum of 36 months for obstructing justice after allowing Pletcher and Moore into her home.
Vanessa Cooper, Pletcher’s ex-girlfriend, misled investigators about her contact with him post-escape, ultimately pleading guilty to two counts of Obstructing Justice with a maximum sentence of six years.
Christina Webb, Pletcher’s sister, provided a ride for him after his escape, leading to her guilty plea for Obstructing Justice and Possessing Criminal Tools, facing a maximum of four years.
Leona DeJesus, Pletcher’s niece, allowed him to stay in her home, later pleading guilty to multiple counts of Obstructing Justice and Tampering with Evidence, facing a combined maximum of nine years.
James W. Pletcher, Wayne’s father, is also implicated for attempting to cover up his son’s conversations and providing financial support post-escape. He has entered guilty pleas for Obstructing Justice and Tampering with Evidence, facing up to six years in prison.
Implications and Sentencing:
The escape unfolded quickly, and the lack of cooperation from those involved delayed Pletcher’s capture. Assistant Prosecutor Warren T. Edwards has emphasized the need for accountability, arguing for maximum sentences during the upcoming hearings. “The public needs to know that aiding fugitives comes with a heavy price,” Edwards said.