After deputies had removed his restraints at court, the suspect ran for it as per Oregon law.

The second-degree murder case against a man was thrown out of custody by a bail judge last month.

The Washington County Sheriff's Office released Thursday footage from Edi Villalobos' jury selection.

According to police, Villalobos arrived at the Washington County courthouse in 2023 to begin his trial. Villalobos is charged with murder in the 2nd degree, unlawful weapon use, elude and two counts each of burglary in first degree, reckless driving and reckless endangering.

The suspect was released from his restraints as they entered the courtroom. Oregon law requires that juror selection be conducted in this manner. This is to ensure that the jury does not prejudice the process by seeing the defendant in cuffs.

Villalobos appears to be standing up with his feet and hands free before sprinting out of the courtroom. He's seen running through the halls, passing a stunned onlooker, and finally out the front door.

@HillsboroPolice is actively searching for Edi Villalobos. Villalobos was at the Washington County Court House to face multiple charges including murder in second degree when he ran out. If you see Villalobos, call 911, do not approach him pic.twitter.com/zVRciGS3yQ

Washington County Sheriff's Office, Oregon (@WCSOOregon), February 27, 2023

After asking nearby residents for shelter, authorities launched a two-hour manhunt in an attempt to retake Villalobos.

After a member of the community reported that someone tried to enter their apartment, authorities arrested the suspect. The suspect was found hiding in a closet under a blanket by police. He was then taken back to Washington County Jail. For his escape, he was indicted on two more counts of burglary in first degree and one count each of escape in second degree.

KPTV reports that Villalobos was accused of stabbing a man and then attacking another person with a knife back in 2021.

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Title: Shocking Video Shows Oregon Murder Suspect Flee Court Before Two-Hour Manhunt: Police
Sourced From: toofab.com/2023/03/10/murder-suspect-flees-court-on-video/
Published Date: Fri, 10 Mar 2023 17:34:31 +0000

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