Two women held in jailbreak

SUNNYSIDE, Wash. – One woman has been charged in the escape of four federal prisoners, a second is in custody, authorities say a third also may be involved, and more arrests are expected.

“It might be five or 15” more arrests, Deputy U.S. Marshal Kevin Kilgore told the Yakima Herald-Republic on Sunday night. “We’re just not sure at this point.”

All but one of the four, who used a piece of metal torn from a mop pail to carve a hole in the ceiling and gain their freedom Thursday, remained at large.

Stacey Williams, of Yakima, registered owner of a 2006 Hyundai Sonata that investigators believe was used in the escape, was arrested Saturday night and the vehicle was seized, officials said.

Amanda Louise Clark was questioned following the jailbreak and was charged Friday with conspiracy to assist the escape of a federal prisoner, Kilgore said. She remained in custody pending a federal detention hearing this week.

Misty Ann Simmons, held on unrelated state charges, “may have been associated with the people who have escaped,” Kilgore said, adding that investigators were trying to determine whether she helped them get away.

More arrests are likely, “absolutely,” he said. “This conspiracy extends to everybody that might have concealed them, gave them food or shelter, gave them rides or helped them financially.”