A routine trip back to jail took a wild turn in Santee when a sheriff's vehicle, returning from a hospital trip with a detained woman, collided with a civilian car, officials said. According to the San Diego County Sheriff's Department, the accident occurred Monday at about 11:30 a.m., when an inmate, identified as Juliette Espinoza, apparently tried to make a break for it.
The deputy was driving the inmate back to Las Colinas Detention and Reentry Facility after a visit to Alvarado Hospital Medical Center when Espinoza became unruly and tried to quickly escape, working her way out of the seat belt. In a swift response to the situation, the deputy attempted to expedite their journey back to the facility using emergency equipment, but in the process, collided with a black Honda on Mission Gorge Road. The mishap resulted in minor injuries.
After the collision, additional deputies promptly arrived at the scene to assist. The department reported that no one was seriously hurt in the incident. The deputy was unscathed, Espinoza complained of pain but was released from the hospital without significant injuries, and the Honda driver walked away unharmed. However, a passenger in the Honda did suffer a leg abrasion.
Espinoza was initially held on drug-related charges since January 6. After her alleged tumultuous attempt to bolt, she has been additionally charged with attempting to escape, according to the sheriff's department's statement. The Sheriff's Department is continuing to investigate the collision thoroughly and has committed to providing updated information as it becomes available, ensuring the circumstances surrounding the incident are fully reviewed.
