Summerville, SC – A Summerville man allegedly escaped police custody early Thursday morning while being transported to a detention center, prompting an active search involving multiple law enforcement agencies.
According to the Summerville Police Department, the incident happened around 12:33 a.m. Thursday as officers were escorting 18-year-old Jovon Perlote to the Berkeley County Detention Center for booking. Perlote was allegedly facing original charges of auto breaking and entering and possession of burglary tools at the time of the incident.
Police said officers had earlier responded Wednesday evening to a reported auto breaking and entering in the South Pointe subdivision. Two suspects were allegedly located and arrested at the scene before being transported by a Summerville officer.
Authorities said that while removing the suspects from the patrol vehicle at the detention center, Perlote allegedly fled on foot. Law enforcement immediately began search efforts in the surrounding area.
According to officials, the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office assisted in the response, deploying additional resources including a K-9 team and aerial drone support to aid in locating the suspect. Despite those efforts, Perlote remained at large as of the latest update.
Investigators said they are continuing to review all aspects of the incident, including how the escape occurred during the transfer process.
Police are urging anyone with information about Perlote’s whereabouts to contact the Summerville Police Department or the Berkeley County Sheriff’s Office immediately. Authorities caution that the suspect should not be approached.
The investigation remains ongoing as search efforts continue across the area.
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