Florida Woman Runs From Captor at Walgreens After Months of Torture

Hillsborough County SheriffsPhoto byAuthor screenshot, Facebook

Disclaimer: This story was written for informational purposes only.

On April 2, 2024, the Hillsborough County Sheriff's Office issued press release 24-73 regarding the apprehension of a violent suspect who had a history of dangerous behaviors. Walter Medina, 48, served prison time for a previous False Imprisonment case.

His arrest history includes Kidnapping, Aggravated Assault on a Law Enforcement Officer, and Robbery.

On Monday, April 1, 2024, a call was made to emergency services reporting an injured female who escaped from a van and requested help. Hillsborough County deputies were dispatched to the gas station.

The battered woman met Walter Medina in January while she was panhandling in the area. He gave her food and narcotics. Medina turned violent and held the woman captive while he relentlessly abused her.

Medina assaulted her with a wooden bat and flathead screwdriver. Some of the woman's injuries include broken ribs, deep punctures, and extensive bruising. Her captor threatened that if she ran, or sought help, he would kill her.

For more than two months, Medina drove her around the Tampa Bay area in his van and tortured the victim. She seized an opportunity to escape when he left her unattended at a local Walgreens.

When the deputies arrived, they arranged immediate transport to the hospital for treatment of her serious multiple injuries.

Walter MedinaPhoto byAuthor screenshot, Facebook

On April 2, 2024, Medina was arrested following a pursuit with the Polk County Sheriff's Office, the Lakeland Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol.

"I can’t imagine the torture this victim endured for months, but I can imagine the relief she felt when our deputies arrived,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister.

“I have to commend the bravery of the victim for escaping her captor and seeking help. Our thoughts are with her as she recovers from this traumatic ordeal.”

HCSO detectives charged Walter Medina with the following: Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Kidnapping, Armed False Imprisonment, Aggravated Battery with Great Bodily Harm, Tampering with a Witness, and Tampering with Physical Evidence.

"This suspect's reign of violent terror is now over." -- Sheriff Chad Chronister

The Sheriff went on to say, “I am endlessly grateful for our law enforcement partners who put their lives on the line in service and protection of our community while apprehending this suspect. This joint effort exemplifies the strength of our community's law enforcement network and our shared commitment to keeping our streets safe.”

HCSOPhoto byAuthor screenshot, Facebook

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Source:
HCSO Press Release