According to a news release from the Trumbull County Prosecutors Office, a jury has set a record for a quick verdict decision regarding an escape case.

James Finlaw, 50, of Warren was found guilty of not reporting to his parole officers since 2020, ending a one-day trial.

According to the news release, after hearing arguments from both sides, the jury deliberated for five minutes before returning with a unanimous guilty verdict.

The case was prosecuted by First Assistant Christopher Becker in the courtroom of Common Pleas Judge Sarah Kovoor, who will schedule sentencing after Finlaw completes a background investigation.

Finlaw was represented by two public defenders according to the release.

According to the release, Becker called his only witness, a parole officer, who stated that Finlaw had been declared an absconder for non-reporting as of December in 2020.

Prosecutor Dennis Watkins is quoted in the release as saying," I believe that may have set a record for Trumbull County," following the return and decision of the jury after five minutes.

According to the release, Finlaw was placed on post-release control after serving an 18-month prison term for an OVI felony conviction in 2019, which included a one-year repeat violent offender specification. 

The case originated from a drunk driving arrest of Finlaw in Trumbull County in 2018 according to the release.

Download the WFMJ app for your Apple or Android smartphone or tablet to get our push alerts as news happens.