Homeless Man Accused Of Synagogue Vandalism Escapes Mental Treatment Facility
MIAMI (CBSMiami) - The homeless man accused of vandalizing a Miami Beach synagogue has escaped a treatment facility.
Maximo De La Cruz-De Jesus, 43, was receiving mental health evaluations at Harbor House in lieu of being taken back into custody to post his $5,000 bond.
On Sunday night it was reported De Jesus escaped the mental health institution.
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De Jesus was arrested after he allegedly scrawled hate messages on a banner in front of Temple Emanu-el; symbols such as a swastika and skulls and the letters "KKK".
After his arrest, the judge ordered De Jesus be taken to Mercy Hospital for a mental health evaluation in a secured section of the facility instead of going to jail. The state had no objections.
When De Jesus was transferred for continuing care to Harbor House, the state objected because it was not a lock down facility. The prosecutor claimed De Jesus posed a danger to the community.
Harbor House countered that they had adequate security measures and a six-foot fence around the property.
When the judge sided with De Jesus' defense attorney and granted his release to Harbor House, the prosecutor requested that he be fitted with a GPS tracker. The judge declined that request.
De Jesus is now on the loose with the impending Jewish High Holy Days.
Though De Jesus' actions were categorized as vandalism rather than a hate crime, due to his mental instability, Miami Beach police are still warning residents to be vigilant.
A warrant for his arrest has been issued and authorities are asking for anyone with information to come forward.
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