Stolen skid steer driver arrested while in the hospital, sources say he's paralyzed

A Mobile man, Joseph Jones, has been arrested nearly two months after leading police on a chase down Interstate 10 in a stolen skid steer. The pursuit escalated when Jones reportedly rammed one of the police cruisers, resulting in officers firing at him. He was shot during the incident and has been hospitalized since then.

Reports indicate that Jones is currently paralyzed and remains at University Hospital, where police executed a warrant for his arrest. Due to his ongoing medical treatment, there is no updated mugshot available. His new charges include resisting arrest, theft of property, reckless endangerment, criminal mischief, attempting to elude, and attempted assault.

The incident began when Jones allegedly stole a skid steer in Tillmans Corner. Police attempted to stop him as he drove dangerously, ramming their vehicles before fleeing onto westbound Interstate 10. The situation escalated further when officers engaged in gunfire with him, resulting in his injuries.

Details regarding the police officers involved remain limited, as the Mobile Police Department has placed them on administrative leave but has not disclosed how many officers were involved or the circumstances of the shooting. A spokesperson for the Mobile County District Attorney's office stated that due to grand jury secrecy laws, they cannot provide additional information.

As for Jones's potential transfer to jail, concerns have been raised about whether Metro jail is equipped to handle individuals with serious medical conditions like paralysis. Former Mobile County Jail Warden Sam Houston noted that the facility's capabilities depend on the specific needs and severity of the individual's injuries.