Winter Haven Police Department has successfully apprehended a convicted felon who had escaped from a transition facility in Kissimmee. Thirty-five-year-old Erich P. Mueller, previously in prison since 2020, was serving a five-year sentence for multiple charges, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of methamphetamine, carrying a concealed firearm, and grand theft motor vehicle. According to WFLA, Mueller escaped from The Transition House in Kissimmee on September 14.
On the lead of a tip received on October 17, the Winter Haven detectives were able quickly to set up surveillance on a residence at 680 Avenue North Southeast Winter Haven, where Mueller was suspected of hiding. WTSP reports indicate Mueller was seen leaving the residence on foot, after which he was stopped and arrested on an active warrant for his escape.
The residence where Mueller was found belonged to his girlfriend, Alexandra J. Orrick, aged 32. Orrick was observed by police, making to exit the garage in her vehicle when she was stopped. During an interview with detectives, Orrick admitted to knowing that Mueller had escaped custody and had been allowing him to stay at her residence without informing law enforcement. The Tampa Free Press reported Orrick was taken into custody and charged with harboring an escaped prisoner.
Both Mueller and Orrick have since been transported and are currently held at the Polk County jail. Further details on the case are forthcoming as authorities continue to investigate.
