Washington County, FL – A 46-year-old Florida man allegedly jumped from a moving vehicle after realizing his daughter had called 911 to report him for physically assaulting his wife and child during a heated altercation, according to the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
The Incident: 911 Call Leads to Chaotic Scene on Highway 79
Authorities say Albert Dale Searcy, 46, was driving along Highway 79 in Washington County on Monday when his daughter secretly dialed 911 to report a violent fight between her parents inside the car. The vehicle also carried two additional children, according to a Facebook post by the Sheriff’s Office.
“Dispatch received a call from a young girl stating her parents were fighting in the car,” the department said.
The girl provided dispatchers with details about their location and vehicle description before the call was disconnected. Deputies soon located the vehicle and attempted to conduct a traffic stop.
Instead of pulling over, police said, Searcy continued driving northbound before opening the driver’s door and jumping out of the moving car in an apparent attempt to flee.
Investigation and Evidence Collected
According to the police report, Searcy’s wife, Heather Searcy, managed to climb over the console and take control of the vehicle after her husband bailed. She eventually brought the car to a stop, preventing further danger to the children inside.
When deputies reached the vehicle, they found visible injuries on Heather Searcy’s face, consistent with a physical altercation. She told officers that her husband had struck her several times and hit their daughter after realizing she had called 911.
“During the argument, Heather asked Albert to stop the vehicle so she and the children could get out, but he refused,” investigators wrote in the report.
Emergency medical personnel treated the family at the scene, and all were later cleared of serious injuries.
Arrest and Criminal Charges
Deputies pursued Searcy on foot after he fled from the vehicle and took him into custody a short time later. He was transported to the Washington County Jail, where he remains without bond.
Searcy faces an extensive list of charges, including:
- Child abuse
- Domestic violence battery
- False imprisonment
- Tampering with or harassing a witness
- Attempting to elude law enforcement
- Resisting arrest
- Driving with a suspended or revoked license
Authorities said the family had recently moved from Louisiana to Florida and were traveling to their new home at the time of the violent incident.
The Washington County Sheriff’s Office praised the quick thinking of the daughter who made the emergency call, emphasizing that her actions may have prevented further harm to her mother and siblings.
Statements and Community Reaction
Sheriff’s officials described the case as a “disturbing example of domestic violence witnessed by children”, urging victims of abuse to seek immediate help.
Community members who read about the case on social media commended the girl’s bravery. Many expressed outrage over the father’s actions, calling it “unthinkable” that a parent would endanger his entire family in this way.
Background and Legal Context
Under Florida law, domestic battery and child abuse are felony offenses carrying potential prison sentences. The false imprisonment and witness tampering charges may further increase Searcy’s sentence if convicted.
Law enforcement officials highlighted that the case underscores the importance of reporting domestic violence early, particularly when children are involved. The Sheriff’s Office noted that domestic incidents often escalate rapidly, and swift reporting can save lives.
Ongoing Developments and Next Steps
Searcy is being held at the Washington County Jail while awaiting a court appearance. Prosecutors are expected to file formal charges in the coming days. Meanwhile, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Child Protection Unit is working with the family to ensure the children’s safety and continued support.
The Sheriff’s Office confirmed that all three children are in safe custody and receiving follow-up care.
Conclusion
Authorities credit the quick actions of a brave 911 call from a young girl for preventing what could have been an even greater tragedy. As the investigation continues, officials hope the case serves as a reminder of the importance of speaking up against domestic violence.
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