Mississippi inmate escape prompts new security: Sheriff

MEMPHIS, Tenn. — DeSoto County Sheriff Thomas Tuggle says they’ve added more security since the escape of inmate Joshua Zimmerman from a DeSoto County courthouse in Hernando on June 14.

Zimmerman was arrested two months later inside a Chicago restaurant by U.S. Marshals.

On Monday, DeSoto County Deputy Jailer Ronnie Hunt, 32, was arrested in connection to Zimmerman’s escape and charged with the escape of prisoners and conveying articles useful for the escape of prisoners.

Sheriff Tuggle isn’t talking about Hunt’s arrest but released this statement about changes made since Zimmerman managed to walk away from the courthouse:

“ We can’t speak on any matters concerning Ronnie Hunt or the escape. The investigation and its results are in the jurisdiction and control of MBI/AG Fitch. The weaknesses that were exposed from  Zimmerman’s escape have been rectified, and we have implemented additional security measures that we will not disclose to the public for obvious safety reasons.”

Zimmerman is accused of attacking an elderly Southaven man who hired him to work at his house last September. He is also facing charges in Texas for the death of a woman.

He was at the courthouse for a hearing when he walked past the courtroom, down some stairs, past metal detectors and guards at the entrance without being noticed.

The extent of Hunt’s alleged involvement in Zimmerman’s escape is unclear. The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office said Hunt was fired from his job. He is currently being held at the Lafayette County Jail.

The DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office has been directing all questions to the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation investigating Zimmerman’s escape. MBI said additional charges against Hunt are probable.

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