Scioto County deputies are searching for a man who jumped from an ambulance and ran while being taken from the jail to the hospital.
Sheriff David Thoroughman is asking for the public’s help locating 31-year-old Jeremy Copas.
According to the Sheriff’s Office, Copas had been in custody on a bench warrant for failing to appear in court on a misdemeanor criminal trespassing charge.
While at the jail, officials said Copas indicated he needed medical attention and later appeared to become unresponsive. An ambulance was called to take him for emergency care.
Copas had been granted a conditional release by a judge and was supposed to return to jail after treatment.
During the ambulance transport Saturday, in the area of Waller and 16th streets, officials said Copas managed to jump from the ambulance and run from the scene.
Law enforcement immediately searched the area, but Copas remained at large.
Hear the incident from our SCDN SCANNER
Why Was He in Custody?
Court records show Copas was charged with criminal trespassing in early May in Portsmouth Municipal Court.
He was appointed a public defender and released on his own recognizance, meaning he did not have to post a cash bond but was still required to appear in court.
When Copas failed to appear for a July 1 court hearing, a warrant was issued for his arrest. His public defender also filed a motion to withdraw as his attorney.
Officers had taken Copas into custody earlier in the week after reports of erratic behavior. He was transported to the hospital at that time, but was later arrested and booked into the Scioto County Jail on Friday before the court released him for medical treatment.
Sheriff Says Do Not Approach Him
Sheriff Thoroughman said residents should not approach Copas if they see him.
Anyone who spots Copas or has information about his whereabouts should call 911 immediately.
Callers may remain anonymous.
The Sheriff’s Office said the investigation into the circumstances of the ambulance escape is ongoing.