ST. JAMES — A 36-year old Watonwan County Jail inmate escaped custody Sunday, according to the Watonwan County Sheriff’s Office.

Watonwan County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Mark Slater said Leonardo Lopez Jr. was being transferred from one part of the jail to another when he forced his way through a door and escaped custody.

“He shouldered a locked door, breaking it,” said Slater.

“We’re asking the public to contact us with any information on him (Lopez),” Slater said. “Callers can remain anonymous. We’d appreciate any security footage including door bells that may have been used.”

Slater said nobody was hurt in the Sunday incident.

Watonwan County Deputies plus officers with the St. James, Madelia and New Ulm Police Department K9 unit searched several St. James residences where authorities believed Lopez may be in addition to searching the community but did not locate him as of Tuesday morning.

Lopez was being held in jail on a felony charge of predatory offender-knowingly commits act or fails to fulfill registration requirement. The charge was filed on Nov. 2, 2022.

At age 18, Lopez was convicted of third-degree criminal sexual conduct with a victim more than two years younger in 2005.

According to court documents, St. James Police Officer Brad Nestegard went to Lopez’ registered address of 808 Fourth Avenue South on Nov. 2, 2022 and spoke to an individual at the residence who said Lopez moved out “a while ago.” Lopez’ release conditions were filed in court on Aug, 9, 2023.

Officer Nestegard learned from Lopez’ Minnesota Department of Corrections agent that Lopez was not in compliance and there was an active felony warrant on him.