Sheriff’s Update: Search Called Off at 3:20pm
The search for the suspect in the area of Russia Rd between SR 58 & Annis Rd. has been called off. If you have any information on the suspect, please contact local authorities.
The suspects name is James Douglas Meadows 37-year-old-male wanted on a warrant. Meadows is 5’7” tall and 170 pounds, with brown eyes and brown hair.
Shelter-in-Place Lifted in Lorain County as Manhunt for Suspect Accused of Assaulting Officers Continues
By Aaron Knapp, Lorain Daily Staff Writer
LORAIN COUNTY, Ohio – Authorities continue their active search today for James Douglas Meadows, 37, a Lorain County man wanted for a parole violation. Meadows allegedly assaulted two Sheffield Village Police officers over the weekend. Consequently, the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office issued a shelter-in-place alert for a portion of New Russia Township this morning. However, officials lifted the order just before 2 p.m.
Initial Incident: Assault on Sheffield Village Officers
The incident that initiated the widespread search occurred on Saturday, March 22nd. At that time, Sheffield Village Police officers, acting on a tip about a parole violation, stopped a vehicle in which Meadows was a passenger. Upon confirming the outstanding warrant, officers tried to take Meadows into custody. However, Meadows struggled with the officers and reportedly assaulted them before he fled on foot. Indeed, one handcuff remained on his wrist as he escaped.
Marshals Join the Hunt; Elyria Gas Station Encounter
Following this escape, the U.S. Marshals Service joined the effort to locate Meadows. Subsequently, their investigation led them to an Elyria gas station this morning, Thursday, March 27th, at approximately 8 a.m. When marshals attempted to apprehend Meadows, Sheriff Jack Hall reported that the suspect tried to endanger their lives. Specifically, Meadows allegedly attempted to strike them with his vehicle before he again fled on foot. Furthermore, Major Torres stated that a short pursuit of about three miles occurred before Meadows abandoned his vehicle.
Current Search Efforts in New Russia Township
Currently, the search is concentrated in the area of Russia Road, west of State Route 58, in New Russia Township. This area is wooded with streams and walking paths, thus creating a challenging environment for law enforcement. Multiple local and federal agencies are involved in the operation. These include the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Elyria Police Department, the Lorain Police Department, the Oberlin Police Department, the Ohio State Highway Patrol, and the U.S. Border Patrol. Additionally, K-9 units and drones are assisting in the search.
Shelter-in-Place Order and Public Alert
Initially, as a precaution, the Lorain County Sheriff’s Office issued a shelter-in-place alert this morning for residents near Annis and Russia roads and South Lake Street. This alert urged residents to lock their doors and remain indoors. However, officials lifted the order at 1:51 p.m.
Authorities describe James Douglas Meadows as a white male, standing 5-foot-7 inches tall and weighing approximately 170 pounds. He has brown eyes and brown hair. Meadows was last seen wearing a tan or brown shirt and a gray beanie hat.
Sheriff’s Warning and Upcoming Updates
Sheriff Hall warned residents to call 911 immediately if they see Meadows. Moreover, he also indicated that Major Torres would update the media and that another update might occur in about two hours.
The Lorain Daily will continue to provide the latest information on this developing situation as it becomes available.