MELBOURNE, Fla. – The two Melbourne police officers tied to the escape from custody of a burglary suspect earlier this year will be suspended for one day, without pay, as disciplinary action.
According to documents obtained by News 6, officers Nathaniel Brandel and Martyn Jones had placed Eric Jerry under arrest Feb. 11, when he told them he was having a medical episode.
The officers took Jerry to the hospital, and that’s when, police say, Brandel brought the cuffs to Jerry’s front side and loosened one.
Investigators say Jerry then “battered” the officers and took off into the woods.
The whole thing led to a multi-agency search involving K-9’s and drones.
Jerry was found, and re-arrested at a home in Palm Bay on Feb. 12.
According to the documents, hearings took place and Brandel took full responsibility for moving the restraints.
Melbourne Police say Jones also took responsibility for “failure to properly handle and secure a prisoner.”
Jerry is facing a list of charges, including escape and battery of a law enforcement officer.
He’s currently held in the Brevard County Jail on a $58,000 bond.
Both officers involved have been told they must serve their punishment within 90 days.