Photo credit: www.foxnews.com

Florida Inmate Captured After Faking Injury to Escape

A recent incident in Flagler County, Florida, has drawn attention following the capture of Anthony Romine, a 29-year-old inmate who attempted to escape from law enforcement by pretending to be injured. Authorities state that he was found hiding in dense underbrush after a seven-hour search.

Romine’s escape began after he was initially arrested on July 3 on various charges, including petty theft and counterfeiting. While in custody, he feigned a fall injury, leading to his transport to a hospital for medical evaluation. However, the sheriff’s office later discovered that he had staged the incident to facilitate his escape and return to his home state of Ohio.

His capture took place on Saturday when a Flagler County Sheriff’s K-9 team tracked him down near a gas station. Video footage from the arrest revealed a police dog dragging Romine from his hiding spot as he yelled in pain and pleaded for assistance.

Eyewitness Accounts and Community Response

During the chase, law enforcement received multiple reports from the community about sightings of Romine, showcasing the importance of public engagement in assisting police efforts. Sheriff Rick Staly praised the responsiveness of the community, stating, “We worked until we got him. I commend our team for staying on his trail.” He emphasized that citizens’ vigilance was crucial in ensuring Romine’s apprehension.

In the footage, Romine was heard crying out and pleading with deputies as they advised him to stop resisting, even as he attempted to bite the K-9. At one point, a deputy asked him, “You thought you were going to get away?” This exchange underscored the drama of the situation as it unfolded.

Further Charges and Investigations

Following his capture, Romine now faces additional charges, including felony escape and battery against a law enforcement officer without violence. The sheriff’s department announced that an internal investigation would be conducted to determine how Romine managed to escape while under supervision.

In the aftermath of this event, the sheriff commended the K-9 unit for their effective response, noting that the dog, referred to in a playful manner, would be rewarded for its role in apprehending the suspect.

This incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing inmates and the critical role that community awareness plays in enhancing public safety.

Source
www.foxnews.com