Felon skips out on verdict
June 12, 2008 · Updated 11:59 AM
A man facing prison time on felony drug charges escaped from the Kitsap County Courthouse Wednesday as soon as the verdict was read, according to Sheriffs Office spokesman Deputy Scott Wilson.
Jody Ray Lemon, 31, ran from a Superior Court room immediately after learning he had been convicted of two counts of manufacturing methamphetamine. He escaped from the courthouse by running down the hall and out an employee entrance.
Wilson said there were no courthouse security personnel, law enforcement or corrections officers present in the courtroom with Lemon.
He said they were not required because the defendant was not in custody, having posted bail and returned to the court with his defense attorney.
Lemon was last seen running away from the courthouse toward Cline Avenue, and as of Thursday local law enforcement was still searching for him.
Lemon is described as white, 5-10, 165 pounds, with blond hair and blue eyes. His last known address was in South Kitsap, on Woods Road.
The sentencing range for his convictions is five to 10 years.
A no bail, felony bench warrant has been issued for Lemons arrest.
Anyone with information can call the Sheriffs Office at (360) 337-7101.
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