Five accused of plotting jail break in Hillsdale

3/30/2001

HILLSDALE -- Sheriff's deputies have foiled a potential jail break after discovering that four inmates planned to overpower night security officers, the Hillsdale County prosecutor said yesterday.

Prosecutor Neal Brady has charged four inmates and an 18-year-old woman, who allegedly was planning to help the four men escape. Felony warrants were issued after correction officers Scott Keller and John Wilmer learned about the plot.

The inmates charged in the scheme are Mitchell Sanders, 19, of Moscow, Mich.; Benjamin Bevier, 18, of Jackson; Marcus Newsome, 20, of Hillsdale, and Charles Trout, Jr. Also arrested was Jessica Balcom, 18, of Hillsdale, who is now in jail in lieu of $25,000 bond.

Police believe Ms. Balcom was going to provide the inmates a safe place to stay, a change of clothes and transportation out of town. Hillsdale Undersheriff J.J. Hodshire said the inmates fashioned blunt objects from shower parts. A search of the jail turned up more than one weapon, he said.