An inmate slipped out of UC Davis Medical Center while receiving treatment Saturday evening, prompting a search through the surrounding neighborhood and nearby blocks. The individual had been taken into custody earlier on a trespassing complaint and ran off after the arrest, according to authorities. Hospital and police officials have not released the person’s identity as the search continues.
What police say
The UC Davis Police Department confirmed the person walked away from the medical facility while under care and was later seen on V Street with visible bite marks on the neck. Officers say the individual had been arrested on a trespassing complaint and took off after being taken into custody. As reported by FOX40, investigators described the search as active and have declined to release identifying details.
Potential charges
Leaving lawful custody while receiving medical care can bring additional criminal exposure if the person is found again. California law treats escape from custody as a separate crime, with penalties that vary based on the situation and whether force or violence was involved. The governing statute is California Penal Code section 4532, which is detailed on Justia.
Search and hospital response
UC Davis Medical Center coordinated with campus police as officers canvassed streets, lots and parking areas around Stockton Boulevard and V Street looking for the person. Hospital and university officials have kept public statements limited while investigators follow leads. FOX40 first reported the incident, including comments from UC Davis Police and description of the area being searched.
Context: hospital custody escapes
Escapes from hospital custody are uncommon in the Sacramento area, but they do happen. Local coverage has previously documented at least one incident in which a teen left deputies’ custody after treatment at UC Davis Medical Center. Past reporting by CBS Sacramento highlights the logistical challenges that can crop up when law enforcement and medical staff have to balance security with patient care. Incidents like this typically trigger fast searches by law enforcement and internal reviews of custody procedures.
What authorities ask of the public
UC Davis Police are asking anyone with information to call their non-emergency line, or dial 911 if they see the person and believe there is an immediate threat. Officials have not released any photos or specific identifying details and are urging the public not to approach anyone they suspect may be the individual in question. This story will be updated as law enforcement releases more information.
