Sarasota police searching for man wanted for armed robbery

SARASOTA -- The Sarasota Police Department is currently looking for a man wanted for armed robbery.

Demetrius Downer, 21, of Sarasota, was last seen in the area of 12th and Florida Avenue.

"While officers were attempting to effect the arrest, Downer was able to break free and able to escape with one handcuff on," Sarasota police Lt. Lori Jaress wrote in an email.

Police urge anyone to call 911 if Downer is spotted.

Downer is currently wanted for armed robbery and escape, according to a release.

According to a wanted poster issued to media Wednesday, a source advised that Downer is always in possession of a firearm that he keeps in his backpack. He is known to frequent the Salvation Army and the Resurrection House, police said.

If contact is made with Downer, police said to use caution.

This story was originally published October 14, 2015 at 3:21 PM with the headline "Sarasota police searching for man wanted for armed robbery ."