BOISE, Idaho — Skylar Meade, an Idaho inmate who staged an escape at a Boise area hospital, was transported to Nez Perce County to face murder charges.
Meade is accused of murdering James L. Mauney, from Juliaetta. Idaho State Police (ISP) allege that Meade committed the murder of 83-year-old Mauney during his prison escape. There is a second individual who was murdered in Clearwater County that officials are also connecting to Meade.
On Friday, Aug. 2, KTVB obtained documents from the Nez Perce County Prosecutor's Office announcing its intent to seek the death penalty against Meade.
“After long and careful consideration I have decided to seek the death penalty in this case. The senseless and random killing of Mr. Mauney and the facts surrounding what lead to his death, warrants this determination,” Prosecutor Justin Coleman said in a news release.
On Thursday, ISP announced it transported Meade to Nez Perce County. It considered him a high-risk, high-threat inmate. Meade has faced charges for prison escape and persistent violator offenses in Ada County. He plead guilty to those charges.
“Our primary objective was to ensure a safe and secure transport of the detainee," said Major Matthew Smith, ISP Northern Command. "We are dedicated to upholding the highest standards and providing confidence to all involved. Extensive planning and coordination facilitated this high-security operation."
Nez Perce County Prosecutor Justin Coleman extended thanks to the many agencies involved in Meade's transportation.
“I want to thank all of the agencies involved; ISP, Ada and Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Offices, and the Lewiston Police Department," Coleman said. "Each worked hard and contributed significant amounts of time and man power to guarantee there were no issues today. Now we can continue our work to hold him accountable for his crimes in our County."