CHILLICOTHE, Ohio — July 12, 2025
A Ross County man is facing new charges after allegedly hiding from law enforcement while on a medical furlough from jail, the Ross County Sheriff’s Office confirmed Friday.
According to authorities, Frankie Lee Tate was arrested on July 11 after evading deputies for several days. Tate had been granted a temporary medical furlough following a prior arrest but failed to return, prompting an active search.
Deputies say Tate was initially arrested on May 31 for theft without consent. In April, he had also been pulled over and charged with operating a vehicle without a valid license. Following his May arrest, Tate was taken to a local hospital for a medical issue and placed under temporary release.
However, while under care, Tate allegedly left the hospital without authorization and went into hiding. Law enforcement tracked him down this week and took him into custody.
Tate is now being held in the Ross County Jail, where he faces a growing list of charges including:
- Escape
- Obstructing official business
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Theft
- Driving without a license
The Sheriff’s Office has confirmed that charges have officially been filed, and Tate remains in custody pending further court proceedings.
