Man Involved In Rough Arrest, Leskeil Richards, On The Run After Escaping Police Custody At JMH
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - Miami Police have asked for the public's help in finding the prisoner who escaped from their custody at Jackson Memorial Hospital.
According to police, Leskeil Richards was being treated at the hospital for injuries suffered during his arrest on Sunday when he slipped out at about 6 p.m. Monday.
They believe someone may be harboring him.
"Richards remains at large. He's considered to be a dangerous felon," said Miami Police Officer Kenia Fallat.
Richards was involved in a rough arrest in Liberty City. Police said he actively resisted when officers tried to take him into custody on a warrant for probation violation. The 25-year-old had allegedly removed a GPS ankle monitor he was wearing for a robbery he's accused of committing.
"He actively resisted us the day before he escaped, so we know that he initially gave us a fight," said Fallat.
Police said at the hospital, Richards only had one arm was handcuffed because the other was in a cast.
"He was able to free himself and escape from officers. They were unable to catch him. They set up a perimeter and hours later they were not able to find him," said Fallat.
During their search, however, officers did find the cast.
Richards is 5' 11" and weighs around 90 pounds.
"We know someone may recognize him. He has a distinctive crown tattoo right above his neck area. If you come across him, don't approach him, pick up the phone and call 911," said Fallat.
"We know somebody out there is harboring him and that indeed is criminal. You need to call us if you are harboring him," she added.
Fallat said time is of the essence in this case.
"We're eager to capture him. We don't want him to continue committing crimes. He has a long and extensive criminal past," she said.
In addition to the robbery and carrying a concealed weapon charges he's already facing, Richards now faces new charges of battery on a law enforcement officer and resisting arrest with violence.
The rough arrest prompted a statement from Congresswoman Frederica Wilson who stated in part "...this new allegation of police misconduct involving punching, kicking and a headlock...a thorough investigation is required and swift firings and punishment must follow."