Local
Griffith Police Search for Felony Suspect Who Escaped Hospital Custody
Alton West III, wanted on multiple felonies after a police chase in northwest Indiana, escaped from an area hospital where he was being treated and remains at large, Griffith police say.
GRIFFITH, Ind. â Police in Griffith are searching for a man wanted on multiple felony charges after he escaped custody at a hospital where he was taken for treatment, authorities said.
Alton West III was initially detained Saturday after officers tried to pull over a vehicle he was driving, according to Griffith police. West fled the traffic stop, but his car broke down near the Illinois-Indiana state line.
He then tried to escape on foot and at one point grabbed an officer's Taser, police said. Officers eventually subdued him and took him into custody.
West was transported to an area hospital for treatment and observation. While at the hospital, he removed his medical equipment and fled the facility, police said. He remains at large.
Police released a photo of West following his escape. Anyone who spots him is urged to call 911 immediately and not to approach him.
The case highlights the risks that arise when suspects in custody require medical care, a situation that can leave law enforcement balancing treatment needs against public safety. Griffith police did not immediately provide additional details about the circumstances of the escape or the charges West faces.