Death Penalty Sought for Escaped Inmate
An Idaho prosecutor has announced his intention to seek the death penalty for an inmate accused of killing a man during a 36-hour escape from prison. Skylar Meade, 32, already serving a life sentence, is charged with the first-degree murder of James Mauney, an 83-year-old resident of Juliaetta, Idaho.
The Escape and Capture
Meade’s dramatic escape began in March when he was taken to Saint Alphonsus Regional Medical Center in Boise for treatment of self-inflicted injuries. As correctional officers prepared to return him to prison, Nicholas Umphenour, Meade’s alleged accomplice, began shooting, injuring two correctional officers and a third officer who was mistakenly shot by a fellow police officer. All officers survived their injuries.
Meade and Umphenour fled, traveling to north-central Idaho. Mauney was found dead later that morning, miles away from his home after not returning from a walk with his dogs. The men were captured in Twin Falls approximately 36 hours after their escape.
Prosecutor’s Statement
Nez Perce County Prosecutor Justin Coleman announced the decision on Friday: “After long and careful consideration, I have decided to seek the death penalty in this case. The senseless and random killing of Mr. Mauney and the facts surrounding what led to his death warrant this determination.”
Legal Proceedings
Meade, already sentenced to life in prison for the escape, has not yet entered a plea for the murder charge. His defense attorney, Rick Cuddihy, did not respond to requests for comment. Umphenour, also implicated in Mauney’s death, awaits trial on charges including aggravated battery and aiding and abetting escape. His attorney, Brian Marx, has also not commented.
Additional Investigations
Both men are also suspects in the death of 72-year-old Gerald Don Henderson, whose body was found outside his home in a nearby town. This case remains under investigation, and no charges have been filed.
Background and Gang Affiliation
Police describe Meade and Umphenour as members of a white supremacist gang. Meade was serving a 20-year sentence for shooting at a sheriff’s sergeant during a high-speed chase. Umphenour had been released in January after serving time for grand theft and unlawful possession of a weapon.
