HOLLYWOOD, FLA. (WSVN) - A Golden Beach Police officer was released from the hospital Monday after he was shot during a car theft chase over the weekend.
The recovery process continues for Golden Beach Police Sgt. Joseph Bautista after he took a bullet during the chase.
Now he has six screws in his right arm after surgery.
In a recorded statement, Bautista said, “I’m just glad I was able to use my training and come home to my family.”
The suspects involved in this incident were caught and appeared in court Sunday.
Jordan Christophe faces several charges, which include attempted felony murder.
This all started early Saturday morning when police picked up on a stolen car.
“Eastbound Sunny Isles Boulevard and Collins, units looking for a 2015 grey Nissan Altima,” an officer said on Broadcastify police scanner.
A chase then started, with backup coming from different agencies that were involved.
“The suspects bailed out of the car, and it was during that foot pursuit, that a Golden Beach sergeant was shot twice in the arm,” said Hollywood Police spokeswoman Deanna Bettineschi.
Police eventually captured the shooting suspect, Christophe, and another man, Marvens DeClasse, who was charged with stealing a car.
Bautista underwent a successful surgery on Saturday.
He’s been on the force for 10 years.
“It’s important for you to know that our officers, brave officers like Sgt. Bautista, is who keep us safe every day, said Golden Beach City Manager Alexander Diaz. “They do not cower away in responding to keep us safe while we are sleeping, and we should be proud of the services they offer our communities every day.”
“We’re very grateful that the injuries weren’t more severe for that Golden Beach Police officer,” Bettineschi said.
A GoFundMe page has been created to help Bautista and his family with expenses. If you would like to donate, please click here.
His recovery is expected to last six to eight months.
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