Madison Woman Jumps Into Lake Mendota, Tries to Escape Police by Swimming Away Before Arrest
MADISON, Wisconsin — Police say a woman was arrested Tuesday afternoon after she jumped into Lake Mendota and tried to swim away from officers responding to a welfare check near James Madison Park.
Woman Swims Away From Police During Welfare Check
According to the Madison Police Department, officers were called to James Madison Park after receiving reports of a woman who appeared intoxicated and disoriented near the lakefront.
When police arrived, the woman suddenly ran into the water and began swimming away, ignoring repeated commands to return to shore. Officers said she continued moving farther into Lake Mendota despite their efforts to coax her back.
Authorities then contacted the UW–Madison Police Department’s boat team for assistance in bringing the woman to safety. Even after officers reached her, they said she refused to get on board the rescue boat.
Eventually, after continued communication, she swam back to shore, where officers helped her out of the water.
Arrest and Charges
Once on land, the woman was evaluated by medical personnel and transported to a hospital for examination. Police said the situation escalated when the woman threatened an officer during the evaluation.
Following the incident, she was taken into custody and booked on charges of obstruction, felony bail jumping, and threatening law enforcement officers.
The woman’s name has not been released, and officials said no officers were injured.
Police Urge Caution in Water Emergencies
Madison authorities reminded the public that entering the water during emotional or intoxicated episodes can be extremely dangerous.
Police encouraged residents who may be struggling with substance use or mental health issues to seek help through local crisis resources rather than taking physical risks that could lead to drowning or injury.
The Madison Police Department said the quick coordination between local agencies prevented what could have been a much more serious situation.
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