Stark County law‑enforcement officials are actively searching for two female inmates who escaped from the Stark Regional Community Correction Center Monday evening. The facility, located in the 4400 block of Lesh Street NE in Louisville, Ohio, reported the escape just after 7 p.m.
Details of the escape
According to Canton police, the inmates – identified as Kerriah Ohler and Hope Skerrett – were seen fleeing the building and may have initially taken refuge on the roof. When officers arrived, a drone was deployed to confirm that the women had already left the roof and were heading toward a nearby nature preserve.
Witnesses described one woman wearing all black and the other in a gray sweatshirt with black pants. One pair of white tennis shoes was left behind at the scene. A K‑9 unit was brought in to track the fugitives through the preserve, and investigators later recovered additional dark‑colored clothing, but the women remain at large.
Possible motives and police response
Police disclosed that Ohler may have had an inappropriate relationship with a correction‑center employee who was recently terminated. Authorities also indicated that the escape plan involved a pickup near the Walmart on US 62, with the ultimate destination believed to be Florida.
Warrants have been issued for both escapees, and their names have been entered into the Law Enforcement Automated Data System (LEADS) as missing persons. Canton police continue to coordinate with state and local agencies, urging anyone with information to contact the department immediately.
Community impact and safety
The incident underscores the importance of vigilant public‑safety operations in Stark County. While the escape has caused concern among residents, law‑enforcement officials emphasize that the response has been swift and comprehensive, employing modern tools such as aerial drones and trained K‑9 units to locate the fugitives.
Local officials are reminding the community that the correction center remains a secure facility and that the escape appears to be an isolated incident rather than a systemic failure. They also stress the need for continued support of law‑enforcement resources that keep neighborhoods safe.
What residents can do
Authorities ask anyone who sees the women or notices suspicious activity near the nature preserve, the Walmart on US 62, or any major thoroughfares leading toward the state line to report it immediately. Tips can be submitted anonymously through the Stark County Sheriff’s Office website or by calling the non‑emergency line.
As the search continues, the community is encouraged to stay informed through official updates from Canton police and the Stark County Sheriff’s Office.
Original reporting: 13abc WTVG Toledo (news) — read the source article.
