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Man Who Tried to Make Swim Escape Appears Before Judge

The man who tried to escape from police by jumping into the ocean made an appearance in court Monday.

Police led him away after a foot chase and a swim chase Saturday, all recorded by a beachgoer on a cellphone.

The crowd cheered in the background as Miami Beach Police brought down Adacia Howard Douglas, 34.

"There were children around and he was exposing himself in front of children. I believe an elevated bond is warranted," said Judge Mindy Glazer, Miami-Dade Bond Court.

Douglas is a registered sex offender. He was allegedly walking down the beach with his shorts down.

A 911 caller alerted police when she noticed Douglas standing near children staring at them. A police officer approached Douglas asking him to leave.

After a brief struggle, the officer pepper sprayed Douglas. He took off and jumped into the ocean, swimming 11 blocks before officers finally stopped him, taking him into custody.

"I believe there's probable cause for indecent exposure," Judge Glazer said.

That charge was added and Douglas ended up with a total bond of $20,000. He also faces charges of battery on law enforcement officers, prowling and resisting arrest.

Douglas is now going to the hospital for a mental health evaluation before he can bond out.

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