Marion County Sheriff Kevin Cripps says an inmate taken to Salem Township Hospital Saturday afternoon for medical concerns later attempted to escape.
The inmate, whose name has not yet been released, was arrested on new charges of felony criminal damage to property and escape. He was being held in the Marion County Jail on an outstanding warrant before the incident.
The series of incidents began when the inmate asked to use the restroom while medical staff was conducting treatment. He was escorted to the restroom by a corrections officer. Once inside, the inmate shut and locked the door before the officer could prevent it. Shortly after, noises were heard coming from inside the restroom.
Cripps says that when the officer gained entry to the restroom, it was discovered that the inmate had climbed the wall and entered the space above the ceiling tiles. Deputies, Salem Police Officers, and the sheriff responded immediately to the hospital. The inmate was taken back into custody a short time later after being tased and removed from above the ceiling.
Cripps says there was considerable damage found to the hospital. No injuries were reported during the incident. The hospital was placed on lockdown during the situation.
Watch for further updates.
