Escaped Elyria suspect Donte Parker II, captured in a river after month-long manhunt
By: Elyria, OH - The Elyria Police Department reports that escaped suspect Donte Parker II was captured Friday after a search of more than five months.
According to a release from the department, Elyria officers were dispatched to the area of Riverside Drive and 11th Street just after 11:45 a.m. after a reported sighting of Parker.
"Upon arrival, officers began searching the area and observed Parker fleeing from the rear of a nearby residence. Officer Juker initiated a foot pursuit as Parker ran westbound into a wooded area and toward the Black River. Parker crossed the river, with Officer Juker still in pursuit. On the opposite bank, Parker re-entered the water, at which point Officer Juker was able to close the distance and tackle Parker," Elyria police stated.
Parker was taken into custody and transported to the Lorain County Jail, where he is being held without bond pending an initial court appearance. He faces the following charges:
* Escape
* Resisting arrest
* Felony obstructing official business
* Having weapons under disability
* Two counts of strangulation
* Aggravated robbery
* Aggravated menacing
* Two counts of assault
* Unlawful restraint
In the release by Elyria police, Captain Bill Lantz singled out Officer Juker for his "decisive actions."
“Officer Juker’s persistence and determination led to the safe apprehension of a violent fugitive who posed a significant threat to our community. His commitment reflects the dedication of the Elyria Police Department to public safety and the pursuit of justice.”