Ron Welch
Muskingum County Prosecutor
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Tuesday, July 8, 2025
Jail Escape Case Concludes as Final Three Co-Defendants Receive Sentencing
Wayne Pletcher of Zanesville, OH, escaped from the Muskingum County Jail in February of this year. With his escape, nine individuals plead guilty to their connection in the escape and flee thereafter.
The final three co-defendants that have been awaiting sentencing; Sara Moore, Lindsey Richards, and Christina Webb (Pletcher) recently appeared in a Muskingum County Court to receive sentencing, bringing the jail escape case to conclusion.
Sara Moore: June 16, 2025, Sara Moore, appeared before Judge Cottrill to receive sentencing for Complicity in the Commission of an Offense, a felony of the second-degree in which the Judge imposed a prison sentence of 7 to 10 ½ years. Moore also received sentencing for Obstructing Justice, a felony of the third-degree in which the Judge imposed a prison sentence of 30 months. It was ordered that the sentences be served concurrently (at the same time). This resulted in a total prison sentence of 7 to 10 ½ years.
Sara Moore helped Pletcher escape by holding the door open for him and driving him away from the jail. She remained with Pletcher as he continued his attempt to flee in the days following.
Lindsey Richards: June 23, 2025, Lindsey Richards appeared before Judge Cottrill to receive sentencing for Obstructing Justice, a felony of the third-degree, in which the Judge imposed a prison sentence of 30 months in prison.
Richards, knowing Pletcher had escaped, allowed him and Sara Moore into her and Joshua Rigg’s home. Moore requested drugs from Richards and Riggs during their visit, which they arranged. After Moore received her drugs, she and Pletcher left.
Christina Webb (Pletcher): June 23, 2025, Christina Webb (Pletcher), appeared before Judge Cottrill for sentencing on two separate charges; Obstructing Justice a felony of the third degree in which the Judge imposed an 18-month sentence. Possessing Criminal Tools, a felony of the fifth degree, in which the Judge imposed an 11-month prison sentence. It was ordered that the two sentences be served concurrently, at the same time, resulting in a total prison sentence of 18 months in prison.
February 2, 2025, Christina Webb, Pletcher’s sister, received a call from Pletcher in need of a ride. Aware of his escape from jail, she picked up Pletcher near the cemetery where Hammond’s van was found and transported him to the home of Eliveea Largent and Leona DeJesus.
Additional Co-Defendants: Wayne Pletcher, Vanessa Cooper, Laken Hammonds, James Pletcher, Leona Dejesus, Eliveea Largent, Joshua Riggs
The Assistant Prosecuting Attorney who led the case, Warren T. Edwards, noted "The fact that every single person involved with this escape in any way, received a prison sentence should serve as a warning to deter anyone else who thinks about escaping the jail in this county or assisting anyone who does."
###
Follow the Muskingum County Prosecutor’s Office on Facebook for the most current and complete information.
