Couple Accused of Aiding Escaped Inmate’s Getaway to Louisville

Two Mason County residents are facing serious charges after authorities say they helped an escaped Ohio inmate travel to Louisville. William and Marlana Strausbaugh were arrested and charged with hindering prosecution and complicity to escape. Investigators believe they gave Jerry Cooper a ride from Mason County to Louisville, where he was later captured. According to court records, the couple allowed Cooper to stop at their home earlier in the day, where Marlana provided him food and let him shave his head. Police say Cooper’s sister also gave the pair $25 for gas. A tracked cellphone eventually linked the Strausbaughs to Cooper’s location, leading officers to Louisville where he was arrested. Officials say the couple could also face federal charges for their role in helping him evade capture.