New Madrid County jail escapee caught

SIKESTON -- A New Madrid County jail fugitive who escaped early Saturday reportedly was caught by authorities a few hours later in Scott County.

Around 11 a.m. Saturday, 31-year-old Michael P. Blackmon was reportedly located at a hotel in Miner and taken into custody to be transported back to New Madrid. No further details regarding the incident were available.

According to New Madrid County Sheriff's Department personnel, around 4:32 a.m. Saturday, Blackmon fled the jail after breaking a security window in the cell and another window leading into the courtyard. Towels, which had been tied together, were also found on the jail's roof.

Blackmon was in custody at the New Madrid County jail following a change of venue in Butler County. He was previously convicted of having an illegal weapon -- a shank -- while in custody.

Check Monday's Standard Democrat for more details regarding this story.