The Orange County Criminal Lawyer Blog
The authorities said a Huntley man remained in custody after he allegedly attempted to flee while under supervision at a hospital following his arrest.
According to a criminal complaint, the man had been transported for medical treatment after being taken into custody. While at the hospital, he was seated with an officer and in restraints when he reportedly requested to use the bathroom. The authorities said that after the restraints were removed, he left the room and moved through a nearby exit in an alleged attempt to get away.
An officer quickly pursued him and brought him back without further incident. Prosecutors later argued that the alleged behavior raised concerns about whether the man would comply with court proceedings if released.
A judge ultimately agreed and denied pretrial release, noting that even direct supervision had not prevented the alleged attempt to flee. The ruling also referenced the man’s criminal history, which reportedly included numerous prior convictions dating back more than two decades.
The case stemmed from an earlier incident that same day involving a tobacco shop in Huntley. The authorities said the business was targeted during the early morning hours, when someone allegedly broke through a glass door using an ax. Surveillance footage reportedly showed the suspect entering the store and taking cartons of cigarettes along with multiple vape products.
After being taken into custody, the man allegedly told investigators he carried out the theft because he believed he had been treated unfairly during a prior visit to the store.
He was later charged with both the break-in and the incident at the hospital. The authorities said the charges included burglary, retail theft involving more than $300, possession of burglary tools, criminal damage to property under $500, and resisting a police officer. A separate felony count was also filed related to the alleged escape attempt.
During the court hearing, a public defender said the man had suffered a traumatic brain injury in December, which may have affected his behavior.
If you or someone you love is suspected of a criminal offense, contact Orange County criminal defense lawyer Staycie R. Sena at (949) 477-8088 for a consultation now.