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Melbourne Today
By the People, for the People
Melbourne Police Capture Escaped Prisoner in Palm Bay
Authorities apprehend 24-year-old Eric Jerry after he fled custody during a hospital transport.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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Melbourne police and Brevard County deputies have recaptured Eric Jerry, a 24-year-old man who escaped custody earlier this week after fleeing on foot during a hospital transport. Jerry was located at a home in Northwest Palm Bay, where officers found him attempting to conceal himself before taking him into custody.
Why it matters
Escaped prisoners pose a significant public safety risk, and this incident highlights the importance of law enforcement coordination and swift action to apprehend individuals who have broken free from custody. The successful capture of Jerry ensures the community's safety after his initial escape.
The details
Acting on information that Jerry was hiding at a residence in Northwest Palm Bay, Melbourne police contacted the homeowner and were granted permission to search the property. There, they found Jerry attempting to conceal himself and took him into custody without incident.
- On Wednesday, Jerry escaped custody while being transported to a hospital.
- On Friday, February 13, 2026, Melbourne police and Brevard deputies located and apprehended Jerry at a home in Palm Bay.
The players
Eric Jerry
A 24-year-old man who escaped custody earlier this week after fleeing on foot during a hospital transport.
Melbourne Police Department
The law enforcement agency that led the effort to locate and capture the escaped prisoner.
Brevard County Sheriff's Office Fugitive Unit
The law enforcement unit that assisted Melbourne police in apprehending the escaped prisoner.
What’s next
The judge overseeing Jerry's case will determine if he will face additional charges related to the escape.
The takeaway
This incident underscores the importance of robust security protocols and coordination between law enforcement agencies to ensure the safe transport and custody of prisoners, as well as the swift recapture of any individuals who manage to escape.
