The county jail accidentally released a wanted man Thursday, just after a grand jury handed up an indictment accusing him of five felonies.
On Friday morning, county Judge Karen Drago sent county sheriff’s deputies out looking for the man, Anthony Menagias, 33, of 2213 Broadway. A warrant for his arrest had been issued before he was released from jail, but apparently had not been noticed.
He is accused of selling a firearm, a felony, and selling large amounts of marijuana on four occasions, also felonies.
Within three hours he was back in custody — and very confused.
He had posted bail Thursday in a lower court on other charges, he told Drago. He thought the bail should apply to the felonies, too.
“Because I know I’m not guilty,” he pleaded. “I’ve never had a felony in my life. I only use marijuana for my personal use.”
As he spoke, his speech became slightly slurred. When Drago began to explain his rights, he appeared to become disoriented.
He abruptly interrupted her to say he had been picked up before taking his medication. “I need to take my medication. I feel like I’m going to pass out,” he said.
In moments, he was seated. Drago adjourned the proceedings and told deputies to take him directly to the jail’s medical unit.
She scheduled him to return in a week, meaning he’ll have to stay in jail until then.
Despite that news and his confusion, he didn’t forget his manners.
“Thank you, judge,” he said as he was helped out of the room. “Have a good afternoon.”
In a session that involved one man sobbing as Drago sent him to prison for a sex crime, and several others reacting with disappointment when she revoked bail and sent them to jail, he was the only defendant who wished Drago a nice day.
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