Two inmates from the Brown County Jail in Ohio made headlines after a daring escape that involved crawling through a window and stealing a pedal boat to cross the Ohio River. The incident, which occurred on September 15, has raised serious questions about jail security and the circumstances surrounding the escape.
The inmates, identified as Roy Gene Butler and Jerry Lee Cooper, both had serious criminal backgrounds. Cooper was awaiting trial for conspiracy to commit murder and attempted murder after allegedly accepting $150 to kill a man, while Butler was in custody on drug trafficking charges. Following their escape, the duo managed to paddle across the river into Kentucky before separating.
The escape sent shockwaves through the small community of Maysville, Kentucky, prompting residents to lock their doors and remain vigilant, particularly given Cooper’s violent history. Authorities quickly launched a manhunt. Butler was apprehended the morning after the escape, but Cooper remained elusive for nearly five days, prompting the involvement of the FBI due to the nature of his charges and the potential danger he posed.
Mason County Sheriff, who led the search efforts, expressed frustration over the resources being stretched thin. The search extended over 1,200 acres of dense woodland, where Cooper was believed to be hiding. Despite the challenges, the sheriff emphasized the commitment of local law enforcement and the community’s support during the manhunt.
The FBI’s involvement escalated the search, offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to Cooper’s capture. Their investigation led to a crucial tip that Cooper had contacted his sister from a borrowed phone. This information directed authorities to Marina Strawba, who was subsequently arrested for assisting Cooper. She had allegedly agreed to transport him to a location in Louisville, Kentucky, where he was ultimately apprehended after altering his appearance.
Retired FBI agent Colin Schmidt commented on the incident, expressing disbelief that such an escape could occur in 2025. He emphasized the need for accountability within the jail system and suggested that complacency among staff could have contributed to the breach in security. Schmidt noted that the escape highlighted a potential failure in monitoring procedures, calling for a thorough investigation into possible insider assistance.
Both Butler and Cooper now face charges of escape, and they will be extradited back to Ohio to address their original charges. The case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent security measures within correctional facilities and the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in preventing inmate escapes.
As the investigation continues, authorities are examining the possibility of further accomplices, including those within the jail system, to ensure that such an incident does not happen again. The community remains on edge, but with Cooper back in custody, there is a sense of relief as law enforcement works to restore safety and confidence.