Idaho Judge Pleads Not Guilty for Escaped Murder Suspect
- An Idaho judge has entered a not guilty plea on behalf of an escaped prisoner.
- The prisoner is accused of killing a man during a brief period of being at large for about 36 hours.
- This incident raises concerns over prison security and the judicial process.
LEWISTON, Idaho (AP) — A judge in Idaho has officially entered a not guilty plea for Skylar Meade, a 32-year-old escaped prisoner charged with the murder of James Mauney. Prosecutors have indicated their intention to pursue the death penalty if Meade is convicted. The arraignment took place in Nez Perce County, where Meade's defense attorney stated that he would stand silent, prompting the judge to enter the plea on his behalf, in accordance with the Fifth Amendment rights. Meade is already serving a life sentence for a separate incident involving his escape from a Boise hospital, where he was taken for treatment of self-inflicted injuries. The escape occurred on March 20, when an accomplice outside the hospital opened fire as correctional officers were preparing to return Meade to prison. The shooting resulted in injuries to three officers, all of whom survived. Following the escape, Meade and his accomplice fled to north-central Idaho. Meanwhile, 83-year-old James Mauney was reported missing after not returning home from a walk with his dogs. His body was later discovered several miles away, leading to the murder charge against Meade. The case has drawn significant attention, particularly due to the potential for the death penalty and the violent circumstances surrounding Meade's escape and subsequent actions. The legal proceedings will continue as the prosecution prepares its case against the accused.