Man Runs, Jumps Into Petaluma River To Avoid Arrest: Police

PETALUMA, CA – An officer was injured this afternoon as he tried to stop a homeless man for outstanding warrants only to have the man ditch his bike, run away and jump in the Petaluma River, officials said.

Jesus Carrillo, 31, was riding his bicycle at about 12:15 p.m. at East Washington and Copeland streets when he was spotted by the officer, who knew the man had two outstanding misdemeanor arrest warrants, the Petaluma Police Department said.

As the officer attempted to stop Carrillo, the suspect allegedly took off on his bicycle, abandoned it near the D Street bridge and ran, jumped a fence and leaped into the Petaluma River in an attempt to swim away, the department said.

A perimeter was set up to prevent Carrillo's escape, and with help from the Petaluma Fire Department, Carrillo was eventually arrested without further incident for his outstanding warrants, suspicion of resisting arrest and a probation violation, police said. He was booked at the Sonoma County Jail and is held without bail.

The officer, who gave chase on foot, even over the fence, received medical treatment for an injury suffered. Police did not provide details on the nature of the injury, except to say the officer was not able to return to work and his return date is unknown.

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--Image via Renee Schiavone