Man escapes custody, fights officers on birthday
MEMPHIS, Tenn. — A Crockett County man is back in custody after escaping police and fighting multiple officers on Friday.
Juan Martinez, 25, was initially charged with DUI and escape. He is now facing additional charges including assault on an officer, theft of property, and driving on a revoked/suspended/canceled driver’s license.
According to the Crockett County Sheriff’s Department, Martinez escaped custody of the Gadsden Police Department on his 25th birthday Friday evening.
A massive manhunt followed his escape.
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Police were able to locate Martinez after receiving a tip and immediately responded to the location.
Reports say that while Gadsden Police officers were headed to the area, a Bells Police Officer located the suspect near Fruitvale Road and Old Jackson.
The officer tried to arrest him, but Martinez allegedly began assaulting the officer. Police say Martinez continued fighting multiple officers after backup arrived.
Martinez was eventually restrained and taken to a nearby hospital to get checked out. He is back in custody at the Crockett County Jail.
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Reports say the Bells Police officer was injured in the altercation but is expected to make a full recovery.
“This is another example among thousands of why we need, appreciate, support, fund, and respect our law enforcement officers. If a violent suspect loose on our streets will choose violence against trained law enforcement officers, what would he do to you or your family?” said the Crockett County Sheriff’s Department in a statement.
At this time, the bond for Martinez has not been set.
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