Woman who escaped deputy's custody claims she had medical condition, needed treatment

OSCEOLA COUNTY, Fla. — A woman who escaped custody put a neighborhood on edge as deputies searched in the air and on the ground.

Osceola County deputies were searching for Desiree McAlister, 25, who they said escaped custody Monday afternoon.

Deputies said McAlister got away while she was being held by the Sheriff’s Office for questioning about her possible involvement in an armed robbery at a convenience store that happened earlier Monday.

She was found within three hours at a home on Wagon Circle in Kissimmee, deputies said.

It's not clear how McAlister escaped while she was handcuffed and being interviewed by deputies.

“That is something we will be reviewing and investigating,” said Twis Lizasuain. "She did indicate to deputies that she had a medical condition and wanted the handcuffs put in front instead of the back."

Officials said deputies have leeway with how to handcuff to avoid injuring someone.

"We're going to look at our policies and procedures and see if there were any violations. That's part of the investigation as to the circumstances surrounding her escape," Lizasuain said.

The home where McAlister was found is nearly 6 miles away from the Sheriff’s Office. McAlister said she's friends with the homeowner, who denied knowing her. Deputies said the owner of the home will not be charged.

"We did talk to the friend (and) where she went to, but according to that individual, she had no knowledge that McAlister had escaped and that deputies were looking for her," Lizasuain said.

Deputies said McAlister surrendered outside the home without incident and then beat her head against a patrol car so they were forced to take her to a hospital for treatment.

Residents in the neighborhood said they were shocked to see the heavy law enforcement presence on their quiet street.

McAlister has been arrested 15 times in Central Florida since 2004 on armed robbery, grand theft, kidnapping and drug charges.

She is being held without bond until her first appearance Tuesday afternoon.

Cox Media Group