Police are searching for 32-year-old Steven Alexander Guzman Marroquin, who is accused of getting out of custody by pretending to be another inmate who was due to be released. CTV
Police in Toronto are searching for a man who escaped from custody after allegedly pretending to be another inmate at a detention center in Etobicoke. Officers say the escape happened shortly before midnight on Monday at the Toronto South Detention Centre.
Investigators identified the suspect as 32-year-old Steven Alexander Guzman Marroquin. Police say he walked out of custody by impersonating an inmate who was scheduled for release that night.
How the Escape Unfolded
According to a police news release, Marroquin managed to pass himself off as another inmate during the release process. Officers say staff fitted him with an ankle monitoring device under the false identity.
“Under the guise of another inmate, he was fitted with an ankle monitoring device,” police said.
Soon after leaving the facility, Marroquin removed the device. Police later found it abandoned at a gas station near the maximum-security jail, located close to Horner and Kipling avenues.
Charges Laid Against the Suspect
Police say Marroquin now faces several charges related to the escape. These include escaping lawful custody, impersonation with intent, obstructing a police officer, mischief under $5,000, and theft under $5,000.
Officers have not said how long he stayed inside the detention center or how he gained access to the release process.
Suspect Description Released
Toronto Police Service released a photo of Marroquin to help locate him. Investigators describe him as five feet nine inches tall and weighing about 200 pounds. He has a beard and usually wears his hair tied back in a ponytail.
Police did not share details about what offense he served time for while in custody. They also did not say where he might travel or stay within the city.
Questions Remain About Jail Procedures
Const. Cindy Chung spoke with local media on Tuesday afternoon but declined to comment on how the incident occurred or what steps staff followed during the release process. She also did not say what happened to the inmate who was supposed to leave custody that night.
Chung said investigators continue to review the situation and gather information.
Public Urged to Stay Alert
Police warned the public not to approach Marroquin if spotted. “Anyone who knows any information about his whereabouts is asked to call police. He is considered dangerous,” Chung said. “Do not approach and call the police immediately.”
Officers continue to search the city as the investigation moves forward.
