UPDATE: Justin Eby, 23, was captured about 3 hours after escaping from the jail. The escape occurred at 6:19 AM. The search continues for Jerry Nichols, 38.
Multiple agencies, across three states, joined the effort to capture the two. MISSOURI: Jasper County Sheriff Randee Kaiser and Deputy Major Derek Walrod and staff. KANSAS: Cherokee County Sheriff’s Deputies, Cherokee County Kansas K9. OKLAHOMA: City of Miami Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Quapaw Tribal Marshals, Miami Nation Police Department and others.
MIAMI, Ok. — Shortly after 6:15 AM Thursday morning two males escaped the Ottawa County jail in Miami, Oklahoma. Miami Public Schools moved to virtual learning from home for students. NEO/A&M College dismissed classes for today and on campus students were recommended to stay in their dorms today.
The two escapees are (L-R, below) Justin Eby, 23, and Jerry Nichols, 38.
Nichols was arrested in May 2020 by the City of Miami Police Department after a Felony Pursuit. Charged with:
- FELONY ELUDING/ENDANGERING OTHERs WHILE ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE POLICE AFCF
- FAILURE TO COMPLY WITH COMPULSORY INSURANCE LAW
- DRIVING WITHOUT A VALID DRIVERS LICENSE
Nichols has a Missouri warrant dated April 30, 2020, in Newton County, for 1st Degree Felony Robbery filed by the Seneca Police Department. Related to a gas station robbery in Seneca.
Eby was arrested in the Spring of 2019 by the City of Miami Police Department after firing at officers.
- SHOOTING WITH INTENT TO KILL AFCF
- POSS OF FIREARM AFTER CONVICTION OR DURING PROBATION
“I was just informed of two inmates that have escaped from the county jail. With the inmates still at large, we will move to distance learning today, October 1st to better ensure the safety of our staff, students, and families. I am sorry for any inconvenience this may cause.”
Jeremy Hogan, MIAMI PUBLIC SCHOOLS