DRIVER'S DOOR WON'T OPEN FROM INSIDE OR OUTSIDE AND DOES UN-LOCK BUT WON'T OPEN

It's a common ford escape issue, it's a "Door Lock Actuator"...your options are to get a new door, or get a new lock actuator, which is about $275 at automotive parts stores...it's the part that runs the latch, and if it breaks, it will constantly remain locked, even though you can hear it locking and unlocking.

sounds like the clips inside may have broke for the handles. a local body shop would probably be the best place to get it opened.