Overview
- James Duane Ortley is accused of trying to flee the Hennepin County Jail on Oct. 22 by pushing past a professional visitor toward public elevators.
- As deputies closed in, he allegedly smashed glass with a fire extinguisher, then sprayed it at them before surrendering when it was nearly empty.
- Five deputies were evaluated for chemical exposure, with symptoms including swollen and burning eyes, and some sustained minor injuries.
- New charges include one count of attempting to escape custody, five counts of assault on correctional staff, and one count of property damage.
- Court documents say Ortley admitted in recorded jail calls that he tried to “get outta here,” and the sheriff’s office has updated professional-visit procedures ahead of his court appearance Thursday.