TAMPA, FL – Authorities in Tampa are on high alert after a 15-year-old suspect, Jamir Moore, escaped from the Hillsborough Regional Juvenile Detention Center. Moore, who is facing serious charges related to the murder of a 14-year-old earlier this year, was last seen around 10:33 a.m. Thursday, sparking an extensive manhunt.
Police have described Moore as 5’10” tall, weighing 145 pounds, with medium-length dreadlocks and a distinctive scar on his forehead. At the time of his escape, he was wearing a dark green t-shirt over a blue facility-issued shirt, blue Dicky slacks, and white shoes. Authorities caution that Moore is considered dangerous and could potentially be armed.
The escape was discovered during a routine headcount when Moore failed to return. Surveillance footage later showed him running west from the detention center approximately 12 minutes after he was last seen. Since then, law enforcement has deployed K9 units, air support, and perimeter searches in the surrounding areas, including local businesses, in an effort to track him down.
Deputy Chief of Operations Ruth Kate and Major Patrick Mesmer of the Criminal Investigations Division have been spearheading the search efforts. They urge the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of Moore immediately, emphasizing the importance of not approaching him directly. “Our primary concern is the safety of the community,” said Kate.
In addition to the ongoing search, the Tampa Police Department is conducting a criminal investigation into the escape, while the Department of Juvenile Justice is expected to launch an internal review to determine how Moore managed to flee the facility. Meanwhile, the Hillsborough County State Attorney’s Office is considering charging Moore as an adult for both the homicide and the escape.
Law enforcement agencies, including the Florida Highway Patrol and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, have increased their presence in strategic locations, such as Raymond James Stadium, to ensure public safety during the search. Major Mesmer assured that security measures are robust, adhering to NFL best practices for critical infrastructure.
Authorities have issued a stern warning to anyone who might assist Moore in evading capture, stating that aiding a fugitive is a criminal offense. “We will not hesitate to arrest anyone found to be harboring him,” Mesmer stated.
As the manhunt continues, federal partners, including the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, are collaborating with local law enforcement to expedite Moore’s capture. The community is urged to remain alert and contribute any information that might lead to his apprehension.