THE Department of Public Safety and other law enforcement agencies located and apprehended Joey Maratita, a detainee, close to four hours after he escaped while receiving medical treatment at the Commonwealth Health Center on Wednesday evening.
At approximately 8:06 p.m., DPS 911 dispatch received a call reporting the escape of Maratita, 31, who fled on foot.
He was last seen heading southbound by Shirley’s Restaurant in Garapan, wearing a hospital gown. DPS did not disclose the reason for his medical treatment at the hospital.
Maratita was captured at the old Japanese jail in Gualo Rai without incident at 11:59 p.m. Wednesday, DPS said.
Prior to his escape, Superior Court Associate Judge Joseph N. Camacho denied Maratita’s request to modify his bail to $2,000 from $10,000, and to allow him to post 10% or $200 of the $2,000 bail.
Maratita, who was represented by Chief Public Defender Douglas Hartig, was then remanded to the custody of Corrections. Chief Prosecutor Chester Hinds appeared for the government.
Maratita was charged and arrested for violating a temporary restraining order and causing a disturbance at Chacha Ocean View Middle School on Jan. 17, resulting in a school lockdown.
