A Berkeley Springs woman allegedly escaped police custody and fled on foot while handcuffed in the Morgan County Courthouse parking lot last Wednesday, March 9 at about 12:15 p.m.
Alethia P. Hovermale, 28, was able to evade immediate apprehension, according to a criminal complaint filed in Morgan County Magistrate Court by Sherriff K.C. Bohrer.
Special Deputy A. Athey was escorting Hovermale from the Morgan County Courthouse second floor holding cell to his cruiser to transport her to Eastern Regional Jail on a Morgan County Circuit Court warrant for grand larceny at the time of the incident.
As Athey was unlocking his cruiser, Hovermale allegedly fled on foot out of the courthouse parking lot, across Mercer Street, and up to Green Street. Police reportedly found her hiding behind a house at the corner of Green Street and Congress Street.
As Deputy Athey approached Hovermale, she reportedly resisted and kicked him, at which time he deployed pepper spray.
Hovermale was taken back into custody where she was placed in a “spit hood” and shackles. She was transported back to Morgan County Courthouse, where she was further processed for escaping. Possible pending charges may include fleeing on foot, obstructing, and battery on an officer, according to the police report.
Hovermale was released on a $5,000 bond and is awaiting a hearing in the matter.
