Hernando, Miss. – DeSoto County District Attorney Matthew Barton announced today that Stephen Russell Jr., 27, has been indicted by a DeSoto County Grand Jury for felony escape. This indictment follows Russell’s daring escape from deputies at the courthouse last week, shortly after being convicted for trafficking fentanyl.
This indictment is the result of the task force the District Attorney’s Office enacted earlier this year to expedite indictments in cases that pose a significant threat to public safety and the public interest. In less than four days, the District Attorney’s Office secured the indictment, reflecting the efficiency and dedication of the office to hold dangerous individuals accountable swiftly. Russell now faces the prospect of an extended prison sentence due to this additional charge.
District Attorney Barton emphasized that Russell’s conviction for fentanyl trafficking is part of a broader public safety crisis driven by the fentanyl pipeline driven by an open southern border and the People’s Republic of China. “Fentanyl is flooding our communities and killing our citizens, and this tragic situation is largely due to the unchecked flow of illegal drugs across our border and the actions of foreign governments, particularly China, which continues to produce and ship this poison,” Barton said. “I am confident that come January 20th, that pipeline is going to start to dry up.”
District Attorney Barton also praised the quick actions of his team, saying, “Our office worked at lightning speed to bring this dangerous individual to justice. Thanks to the swift efforts of my staff and law enforcement, we were able to hold Russell accountable for his dangerous actions without delay. This is a clear example of the effectiveness of my staff’s commitment to public safety.”
Russell was apprehended by Hernando Police shortly after fleeing the courthouse—initially on foot and later by vehicle. The felony escape charge carries the potential for an additional five years to his current sentence.
Defendant Information:
Name: Stephen Russell Jr.
Hometown: Southaven, Mississippi
Charges: Felony Escape
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[1] The charges in the indictment are allegations only, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. All factual details are based on court documents and statements made during court proceedings.
