By Gina Yarbrough
Lemon Grove, CA–The Lemon Grove Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating a wanted felon who escaped from custody earlier this month.
According to the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department, deputies observed Hiram Sanchez, 35, shortly after 4 p.m. on Dec. 18 in the 7100 block of Broadway. Sanchez, whose date of birth is July 14, 1989, was wanted on an active felony warrant.
Deputies contacted Sanchez and placed him in handcuffs. During the arrest, however, he fled on foot onto State Route 94, creating a dangerous situation for himself and responding deputies. Deputies did not pursue him onto the freeway.
Authorities said Sanchez was able to slip out of his handcuffs at some point and continued to flee.
Deputies coordinated an immediate search with the California Highway Patrol, the San Diego Police Department’s helicopter unit, and the Sheriff’s Department K-9 teams, but Sanchez was not located.
The San Diego Regional Fugitive Task Force is now actively searching for Sanchez. Investigators believe he may be in East County, possibly in El Cajon or La Mesa. Authorities said he is not considered a danger to the community.
Sanchez is a Hispanic man standing about 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighing around 160 pounds. He was last seen wearing a white hat, black shirt, black athletic pants, and white shoes.
If you see Hiram Sanchez, do not approach him. Call 9-1-1, or call the San Diego County Crime Stoppers anonymous tip line at (888) 580-8477.
