Executive Summary
- Eric Jordan Jerry, 25, escaped police custody in Melbourne on Wednesday night.
- Investigators say Jerry faked a medical emergency to facilitate an attack on officers and flee.
- A massive search involving SWAT, K-9s, and aviation units is currently underway.
Law enforcement officials in Brevard County have launched an extensive manhunt for 25-year-old Eric Jordan Jerry, who escaped police custody Wednesday night while being transported to a medical facility in Melbourne. Authorities confirmed the suspect fled on foot and remains at large.
According to the Melbourne Police Department, Jerry was originally in the process of being transported to jail when he claimed to be suffering from a medical issue. Officers diverted the transport to Orlando Health on North Wickham Road to address the complaint. Investigators stated that the medical emergency was a ruse designed to facilitate an escape. Upon arrival at the facility, authorities allege that Jerry managed to have his handcuffs removed, battered the officers present, and fled into the wooded area surrounding the hospital.
A significant multi-agency search operation was immediately triggered, utilizing K-9 units, a SWAT team, aerial drones, and a helicopter provided by the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. Despite law enforcement personnel combing the hospital grounds and adjacent woods for several hours, police reported that they were unable to locate the suspect by Thursday morning. Jerry is described as standing 6 feet tall and weighing approximately 160 pounds.
Following the incident, Jerry now faces additional charges including escape and battery on a law enforcement officer. Police have advised the public to avoid approaching the suspect if sighted and to contact 911 or Crime Stoppers immediately.
Public Safety Alert
The escape of a detainee during transport highlights the inherent risks involved in prisoner transfers, particularly when medical diversions are required. Law enforcement strategy in such scenarios typically shifts from containment to a widening perimeter search, relying heavily on public tips and aerial surveillance to locate the fugitive. As the suspect faces new violent charges for battering officers, authorities are likely treating this as a high-priority capture to prevent further threat to the community.
It is important to note that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
