Escarcega Requests New Attorney, Waives Speedy Trial
On Monday, February 8, Jose Carlos Escarcega-Ysaias appeared in court for a pre-trial hearing.
Escarcega is accused of seriously injuring Lubbock Police Corporal Ryan Durrett last July when a chance encounter turned in to a scuffle after Durrett discovered Escarcega was in possession of a stolen vehicle.
During the fracas, it was reported that Escarcega got behind the wheel of Durrett's police cruiser and wrecked it while the Corporal hung on for dear life.
Soon after, back-up arrived on the scene and engaged in a physical altercation with the suspect during his arrest.
Monday in the courtroom, Escarcega requested a new attorney and waived the right to a speedy trial. The judge temporarily appointed Jesse Mendez to Escarcega's case and another pre-trial hearing has been scheduled for April 29.
Escarcega has filed a lawsuit against two officers for the use of excessive force at the time of his arrest, but is also being sued by Corporal Ryan Durrett.
Escarcega is being held in the Lubbock County Detention Center in lieu of $500,000 bond.