Meade murder charges consolidated to Nez Perce County

Skylar Meade, 33, faces two first-degree murder charges in Nez Perce County for allegedly killing James Mauney, 83, and Gerald D. Henderson, 72, after escaping prison in March 2024. During a court appearance, Meade stood silent as Judge Michelle Evans consolidated the charges previously filed in Clearwater County. Prosecutors aim to resolve the case before a trial scheduled for March 2024, with Meade's next court date set for November 6. Meade's escape from a Boise hospital resulted in injuries to three police officers, intensifying law enforcement's precautions during his court appearances.

Both Meade and alleged accomplice Nicholas Umphenour belong to the Aryan Knights gang, which raises concerns about their motivations and actions. Umphenour is currently in Nez Perce County Jail awaiting a November 2026 trial and could face execution if convicted. The case has drawn significant attention due to the violent nature of the crimes and Meade's previous prison sentence of 30 to 999 years for a violent escape. Local prosecutors emphasize the need to resolve these serious charges promptly to ensure justice for the victims and community safety.