Warrant issued in Colorado for mother of escaped fugitive

John Buckley

LEXINGTON, Ky. — A warrant has been issued for a Colorado Springs woman who police say issued a false report regarding her son, an ex-Army Ranger and fugitive on the run from the law, according to reports.

FOX56 is reporting that Lexington Police confirmed that an arrest warrant has been issued for Sandra Merritt, who has a Colorado Springs address. Investigators say she helped her son, fugitive John Buckley, on his run from the law that began almost four weeks ago.

Buckley broke free of his leg constraints and walked out of the Fayette County Courthouse shortly before jurors convicted him of rape on July 12. Police found Buckley’s getaway vehicle, which is registered to Merritt, parked outside of a Walgreen’s in Georgetown, Kentucky.

Merritt filed a report claiming that the car had been stolen by a stranger, according to Lexington Police. Investigators said that Merritt filed the report knowing that her son had stolen the car.

Lexington Police said they will coordinate with authorities in Colorado to serve the warrant. Merritt could face charges as the investigation continues.

Buckley’s rape victim has gone into protective custody along with the man who testified against Buckley.