MPD: Suspect arrested after manhunt

THEODORE, Ala. (WALA) - Mobile police arrested a man accused of theft after officials said he fled from authorities, initiating a manhunt in Theodore.

Police were in the process of arresting Mark Bodan for selling scrap metal from a stolen AC unit, when authorities said he bolted into the woods, still wearing handcuffs.

“That's the first time I've ever seen anything happen like this, and we've been here about eight or nine months,” said one nearby resident who watched the search.

A canine unit was called out to the scene late Friday afternoon to search for the suspect.

Cpl. Chris Levy tells FOX10 the department started getting calls about a man running in handcuffs. Shortly after, police found Bodan hiding under a bridge on Hamilton Blvd.

Turns out Bodan had also escaped police Thursday, as they were arresting a relative, Justin O’Rourke, 23, on the same charge.

“Ran away yesterday and was able to avoid being caught,” said Cpl. Levy. “He's done the same thing. So I mean, he's obviously willing to take some desperate measures to get away.”

Bodan was charged with theft 1 ^st degree, escape, and theft 3 ^rd degree for running off with police handcuffs.