Inmate Convicted of Multiple Felonies Escapes Southern Minnesota Jail

Update: Lopez Jr. Captured After Escaping Southern Minnesota Jail

St. James, MN (KROC-AM News)- Authorities in south-central Minnesota are searching for an inmate who escaped a county jail. 

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A news release issued by the Watonwan County Sheriff’s Office says the inmate escaped custody on Monday.

The facility he escaped from was the Watonwan County Jail in the small town of St. James, which is about 35 miles southwest of Mankato. 

The inmate is identified as 36-year-old Leonardo Lopez Jr. Authorities say he escaped shortly before 7 p.m. Monday. 

Law enforcement searched areas of the southern Minnesota community but have not located Lopez Jr. 

As of Tuesday morning officials say his location is unknown. The news release does not indicate how Lopez Jr. escaped. 

Court records indicate Lopez was convicted of felony third-degree criminal sexual conduct in 2006 and felony first-degree burglary in 2008. Officials say all precautions are taking place to ensure the community’s safety while Lopez is on the run. 

It’s unknown if he is armed and the public is advised to not approach him. 

Authorities are asking anyone with cameras on their property to review footage and report anything suspicious. Anyone with information about Lopez is asked to call 9-1-1 or local law enforcement.