Six people arrested after helping inmate escape from Ohio jail

OHIO — A Muskingum County jail escape has resulted in felony charges for six people who aided the escapee, authorities announced.

On February 1, 2025, Wayne “Sam” Pletcher, 37, of Zanesville, walked away from the jail’s minimum-security detention area after coordinating an escape plan with multiple associates.

Following an investigation led by Muskingum County Detective Jeremy Archer, all involved parties have been located and arrested.

Pletcher now faces multiple charges, including escape, tampering with evidence, receiving stolen property, and possessing criminal tools.

Those charged in connection with the escape include:

• Sara Moore, 45, Zanesville – Pletcher’s girlfriend; charged with escape, obstructing justice, and possession of criminal tools.
• Christina Webb, 35, Zanesville – Pletcher’s sister; charged with obstructing justice and possession of criminal tools.
• Vanessa Cooper, 36, Zanesville – Pletcher’s ex-girlfriend; charged with two counts of obstructing justice.
• Leona Bell Dejesus, 18, Zanesville – Pletcher’s cousin; charged with obstructing justice and tampering with evidence.
• Eleveea Largent, 18, Zanesville – Dejesus’s girlfriend; charged with obstructing justice and tampering with evidence.
• James W. Pletcher, 59, Zanesville – Pletcher’s stepfather and uncle; charged with obstructing justice and tampering with evidence.

Authorities emphasized that each individual had the chance to turn Pletcher in but instead chose to assist in his flight from justice.

They now face prosecution in the Muskingum County Court of Common Pleas.

Muskingum County Sheriff Matt Lutz noted that security concerns regarding the jail’s minimum-security dorm will be addressed with the construction of a new facility on Pershing Avenue.

“We urge citizens not to allow themselves to be drawn into the criminal behavior of their friends and relatives,” Muskingum County Prosecutor Ron Welch stated. “Those who do will face serious consequences.”