Bunnell, Florida — A Florida fugitive accused of stealing crab legs from a grocery store was arrested this week after deputies discovered him hiding in one of the last places they expected to look — inside an air conditioner vent.
According to the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office, 33-year-old James Myers was taken into custody on June 8 after authorities tracked him to a residence in Bunnell while investigating a recent theft case. His girlfriend, 36-year-old Joanne Rosario, was also arrested during the operation.
The unusual arrest quickly gained attention after deputies revealed exactly where Myers was found attempting to avoid capture.
Investigation Began With Alleged Grocery Store Theft
Authorities said Myers and Rosario were suspected of stealing crab legs from a Winn-Dixie store in Palm Coast on June 4.
Investigators reviewed security footage and identified a vehicle allegedly connected to the incident. According to court records, deputies traced the vehicle to a residence where they believed the couple could be located.
The vehicle’s registered owner later confirmed that Myers and Rosario appeared in images captured during the investigation, helping authorities connect the pair to the case.
Armed with that information, deputies went to the residence and began searching the property.
Deputies Find Woman Hiding Inside Bedroom Cabinet
As officers searched the home, they discovered Rosario allegedly attempting to conceal herself inside a cabinet located within a bedroom closet.
Authorities arrested her at the scene and continued searching for Myers, who remained unaccounted for.
Despite thoroughly checking the residence, deputies initially had difficulty locating the wanted fugitive. That search eventually led them to an unexpected hiding place.
Fugitive Allegedly Found Wedged Inside Air Conditioner Vent
According to the sheriff’s office, deputies ultimately found Myers hiding inside the home’s air conditioning system. Investigators said he was allegedly “wedged inside the air conditioner’s air handler, folded up behind the ductwork.”
The unusual discovery prompted a humorous response from the sheriff’s office, which referenced Myers’ previous attempts to evade law enforcement.
“James Myers’ favorite game is hide-and-seek,” the sheriff’s office said.
Officials also recalled an earlier incident in which a police K-9 reportedly located Myers while he was hiding underneath a house.
The agency continued the joke while announcing the arrest.
“It’s a tough game to win when the other team shows up with an armored truck, a dog with a nose for nonsense, and a drone hovering overhead.”
Suspect Already Wanted on Multiple Charges
Authorities said Myers was already considered a fugitive at the time of his arrest.
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According to the sheriff’s office, he had been wanted in connection with a March incident involving several alleged offenses, including grand theft, fleeing and eluding, driving with a suspended license, super-speeding, and resisting law enforcement.
Following his latest arrest, Myers was also charged with petit theft related to the alleged Winn-Dixie incident. Meanwhile, online court records indicate Rosario was charged with resisting a police officer.
What Happens Next?
As of the latest update, court records did not show any plea information for either defendant, and no upcoming court dates were immediately available.
Authorities have not publicly indicated whether Myers or Rosario deny the allegations against them.
The case remains ongoing as prosecutors review the charges stemming from both the alleged theft investigation and Myers’ existing warrants.
What do you think about this unusual arrest? Have you ever heard of a more unexpected hiding spot from someone trying to avoid police? Share your thoughts respectfully in the comments below.
