Murder Suspect Faces 7 New Felonies After Jail Escape Attempt

Oct 31

A Minneapolis inmate already charged with multiple homicides is now accused of trying to escape from the Hennepin County Jail.

Prosecutors also allege he attacked several deputies during the attempt last week.

> Sign up for the MN CRIME newsletter

According to a criminal complaint filed Wednesday, 35-year-old James Duane Ortley faces seven new felony charges, including one count of attempted escape from custody, one count of fourth-degree assault on a peace officer, four counts of fourth-degree assault on correctional employees and one count of first-degree property damage.

Investigators say the incident happened around 4:17 p.m. on Wednesday, Oct. 22, when Ortley was meeting with a professional visitor at the jail. As the visitor left, Ortley allegedly shoved past him and entered a public elevator area, taking a fire extinguisher from the wall. Prosecutors say he began smashing the glass on an exit door with the extinguisher and then discharged it toward responding deputies, filling the area with a thick cloud that blocked their view.

When the extinguisher ran low, Ortley reportedly dropped to the ground and shouted that he was done. Deputies then detained him and pulled him back into the secure side of the visiting area. When asked about the incident, Ortley told staff to “look me up,” according to the complaint.

READ MORE > Minneapolis coverage

Five deputies were exposed to the chemicals from the extinguisher and required medical evaluation at Hennepin County Medical Center. One deputy was sprayed directly in the face and suffered swelling to a finger. Another experienced burning to the eyes and face. Others reported throat irritation, shoulder pain and sinus issues. All were treated and given inhalers.

In recorded jail phone calls made after the incident, Ortley admitted to trying to “get outta here,” describing how he broke the glass and sprayed deputies. Surveillance video confirmed the sequence of events, showing Ortley forcing his way out of the contact visiting room, smashing the door glass and discharging the extinguisher at deputies as they approached.

Damage to the jail door was initially estimated at about $900, though officials noted that figure was based on an incorrect part and a higher replacement cost is expected.

Ortley remains in custody on a $500,000 warrant. He is already being held in connection with multiple homicide charges in another case, which is scheduled for a hearing Thursday before Judge Utley in Hennepin County District Court.

> See more of our latest coverage