Felon Tries To Hide Under Boat In Alafia River: Sheriff

RIVERVIEW, FL — As Patrick Scully, 31, armed with a knife, fled from Hillsborough County sheriff's deputies at the Williams Park boat ramp in Riverview, he took to the waters of the Alafia River in a small boat to escape on Friday.

Almost 3 miles into a shallow, narrow canal, he jumped in the river and hid beneath the small boat as sheriff's marine deputies approached.

With the help of the sheriff's aviation unit, the sheriff's marine deputies discovered his hiding place, arrested Scully and took him to shore.

"The collaboration between our patrol, aviation and marine units helped us ensure that this felon was removed from our streets," said Sheriff Chad Chronister. "We will stop at nothing to ensure this community is a safe place for all families."

Scully, 31, a convicted felon, was charged with criminal mischief ($1,000 or more) and battery.