A routine traffic stop in Evansville, Indiana took an unexpected turn when a woman, wanted for drug-related charges, managed to slip out of handcuffs and flee from police officers. The entire incident, captured on a police body camera, has been making headlines and raising questions about police protocol.
Traffic Stop Turns into Chase
On August 29th, Evansville police officers pulled over a truck for a traffic violation. The passenger, 27-year-old Malia Smith, was quickly identified as having an outstanding warrant for her arrest related to a previous drug case. Bodycam footage shows officers asking Smith to step out of the vehicle, assuring her they just needed to conduct a routine check.
From Handcuffs to Foot Chase
After confirming the existence of the warrant, an officer proceeded to place Smith in handcuffs. However, while the officer’s attention was momentarily diverted, Smith, who appeared to be under the influence of drugs, seized the opportunity. With surprising agility, she slipped out of the handcuffs and made a run for it.
Bodycam footage shows Malia Smith escaping from handcuffs during a traffic stop in Evansville, Indiana.
Apprehended and Facing Charges
The officers gave chase, apprehending Smith a short distance later. The footage then shows them placing her back in handcuffs, this time ensuring a tighter grip. Local news outlets reported that Smith complained of feeling unwell after being detained, attributing it to drugs she had allegedly ingested prior to the traffic stop. She was taken to a local hospital for evaluation and later booked into the Vanderburgh County Jail.
A String of Charges
Smith now faces a slew of charges, including escape, resisting law enforcement, and possession of drug paraphernalia. The driver of the truck, who cooperated with the police, was not taken into custody.
Bodycam Footage: Transparency and Accountability
The incident has sparked debate about police procedures and whether there were lapses that allowed Smith to escape. The Evansville Police Department has stated that they are reviewing the incident to assess their protocols. This incident highlights the growing importance of body cameras in law enforcement, providing transparency and accountability for both officers and the public.
This event serves as a reminder of the challenges law enforcement officers face daily, often encountering unpredictable situations that require quick thinking and decisive action.
