RICHMOND, Va. — A Richmond inmate who escaped from custody at the John Marshall Courts Building on Friday afternoon was captured roughly an hour later after a police search near an elementary school, authorities said.
Keijuan Neko Coleman of Richmond escaped from the custody of the Richmond Sheriff’s Office at approximately 12:32 p.m., according to the Richmond Police Department.
Richmond police joined deputies in searching for Coleman after being notified of the escape from the downtown courthouse complex.
Authorities located and arrested Coleman around 1:39 p.m. in a wooded area in the 400 block of East 15th Street. Police said he was taken into custody without incident.
Elementary School Placed in “Secure Mode”
Because of the suspect’s reported direction of travel, nearby Blackwell Elementary School was temporarily placed in “secure mode” as officers searched the surrounding area.
Officials later confirmed there was no ongoing threat to students, staff or the public after Coleman was captured.
The incident triggered a rapid coordinated response involving both Richmond police officers and sheriff’s deputies as law enforcement worked to contain the area and prevent the suspect from fleeing further.
Authorities have not released details about how Coleman escaped custody inside or near the John Marshall Courts Building.
Key Points
• A Richmond inmate escaped from custody Friday at the John Marshall Courts Building
• Police captured Keijuan Neko Coleman about an hour later near East 15th Street
• Blackwell Elementary School was briefly placed in secure mode during the search
Investigation Into Escape Expected
The Richmond Sheriff’s Office is expected to lead the investigation into the circumstances surrounding the courthouse escape.
Officials have not said what charges Coleman was originally facing or whether additional escape-related charges will be filed following his recapture.
Police emphasized that the suspect was apprehended safely and that normal conditions resumed after the search concluded.
Anyone seeking additional information was directed to contact the Richmond Sheriff’s Office.