Introduction to the Incident
An arrest warrant was ordered for a man who sprinted from a Cook County courthouse after he was ordered to be detained during his hearing Monday afternoon. Richard Donta J. Cotton, 32, was at his hearing around 12:35 p.m. Monday at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse, 2650 S. California Ave. when a judge ordered court deputies to take Cotton into custody, according to a statement from the Cook County sheriff’s office.
Details of the Escape
Cotton then asked if he could hand some personal items to a relative and as he walked toward his family member, Cotton ran out of the courtroom and fled the courthouse, the sheriff’s office said. This sudden move caught the court deputies off guard, allowing Cotton to escape the premises.
Investigation and Search
A warrant was issued for Cotton’s arrest and sheriff’s police were “actively searching for him” as of Monday. It wasn’t immediately known whether he is still at large. The authorities are urging anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward.
Background of the Suspect
Cotton had previously been released on a weapons charge, authorities said. This prior release and the current charges against him highlight the seriousness of the situation and the importance of capturing him to face justice.
Call to Action
Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact Sheriff’s Police at 847-635-1188 or to call 911. The public’s assistance is crucial in ensuring that Cotton is apprehended and brought back to court to face the charges against him.
Richard Donta J. Cotton
Cook County sheriff’s office
Conclusion
The escape of Richard Donta J. Cotton from the Leighton Criminal Courthouse highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining order and ensuring that individuals face justice. The issuance of an arrest warrant and the ongoing search for Cotton demonstrate the commitment of the authorities to apprehend him and bring him back to court.
FAQs
- Q: What was Richard Donta J. Cotton doing when he escaped?
A: He was at his hearing at the Leighton Criminal Courthouse. - Q: Why was Cotton ordered to be detained?
A: The specific reasons for his detention were not detailed, but it followed a hearing. - Q: How can someone provide information on Cotton’s whereabouts?
A: By contacting Sheriff’s Police at 847-635-1188 or calling 911. - Q: What prior charges did Cotton face?
A: He had previously been released on a weapons charge. - Q: What is the current status of the search for Cotton?
A: As of the last update, sheriff’s police were actively searching for him, but it wasn’t known if he was still at large.
