Handcuff key allegedly found on jailed Michigan Rep. Jones

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More felony charges were filed against Rep. Jewell Jones of Michigan on Wednesday after he was suspected to get hold of a handcuff key following Tuesday’s arrest because of his revoked bond from a past arrest.

The Detroit News reported that Jones was arraigned Wednesday on accusations of trying to get out of custody pending the felony trial and possessing a weapon inside the lock-up cell. 

“This guy is a real piece of work, and an embarrassment to all elected officials, and I believe he thinks somehow the laws do not apply to him,” according to Livingston County Sheriff Michael Murphy, as reported by FOX 2 of Detroit. “More than that, I am mad. Had the handcuff key ended in an injury to my staff or another inmate I am not sure what I would have done, as my primary responsibility is the safety and security of my staff and inmates.”

26-year-old Jones was held as he was suspected to have defied his ban anew that was connected to a car collision this year. Police said that Jones was under the influence of alcohol at the time of the incident, with his blood-alcohol content surpassing what is allowed legally.

On Sept. 3, he violated his bond after being monitored to have alcohol in his system through an alcohol tether on his ankle. Three days later, he was suspected to have interfered with the tether.

On Wednesday, the Michigan representative said his not guilty plea. The News said his bond was at $100, 000 in cash.

FOX 2 reported that the key to the handcuff was found by the officers under Jones’ foot.

He was also mandated to give up any possession he would utilize as his district’s reserve police officer.

The News said Jones’ lawyer expressed dismay on charges of an escape attempt on Jones as the key could not help Jones get out of the prison.

Murphy, meanwhile, was not yet definite why Jones had possessed the key, FOX News reported.