Lawrence County, Missouri – An Aurora man’s daring escape attempt from the local jail has landed him in even hotter water. James Matthew Ireland, 25, faces a slew of charges including first-degree rape, armed criminal action, first-degree sodomy, and unlawful use of a weapon following a disturbing assault on a woman.
The victim reported to the Aurora-Marionville Police Department that Ireland had choked her, held a knife to her throat, and sexually assaulted her. Ireland initially denied the accusations but eventually admitted to intercourse, claiming the encounter was initiated by the victim. However, he confessed to choking her too hard, fearing he might kill her.
Ireland’s troubling behavior didn’t end there. While being escorted to the Lawrence County Jail, he threatened an officer with violence and rape upon his release, leading to additional charges of escape from confinement, damage to jail property, and theft following an escape attempt just days later.
During his failed escape, Ireland feigned a medical emergency to deceive a deputy, who momentarily left him unattended. Seizing the opportunity, Ireland broke out of the jail, causing damage to the facility in the process. Despite his brief taste of freedom, law enforcement swiftly recaptured him and returned him to custody.
Ireland is scheduled for a preliminary hearing on multiple charges, including theft for absconding in his prison attire, on May 6. Remanded to the Lawrence County Jail and facing serious allegations, his reckless actions have only compounded his legal troubles. It remains to be seen how his case will unfold in the coming days.