A Florida inmate managed to escape from custody last week after faking an injury and fleeing a hospital, reportedly due to the negligence of the deputy assigned to guard him. The incident occurred at AdventHealth Palm Coast Hospital, where 29-year-old Anthony Romine was being treated.
According to authorities, Deputy Tyrique Harper, who was responsible for overseeing Romine, resigned before an internal investigation could be launched into the escape. Witnesses suggested that Harper was likely sleeping during the escape, and Romine was not properly restrained as per protocol.
Romine, who was initially arrested on July 3 on various charges including petty theft and counterfeiting, had feigned an injury to facilitate his escape and return to his home state of Ohio. Following the escape, a massive manhunt ensued, lasting approximately seven hours.
The manhunt concluded when a Flagler County Sheriff's K-9 team located Romine in a wooded area near a gas station. Video footage captured the dramatic moment when the K-9 apprehended Romine, who was hiding under foliage and underbrush.
Mark Strobridge, chief of staff of the Flagler County Sheriff's Office, expressed relief that Romine was captured without further incident. Strobridge emphasized the importance of deputies adhering to policies and remaining vigilant while on duty, stating that such lapses in duty are unacceptable.
Following his capture, Romine now faces additional charges, including felony escape and battery on a law enforcement officer without violence. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement in ensuring the security of inmates and the public.
