By MACKENZEE SIMMS | Staff Writer

CALERA – A naked man covered in blood was apprehended in Calera after allegedly damaging the property of 18 victims, according to the Calera Police Department.

Around 2:30 a.m. on Friday, Nov. 8, the CPD received a call from a Camden Cove resident claiming that a naked man was damaging vehicles in the area. After beginning a search, additional calls from more residents aided the police in locating the suspect.

According to the CPD, the “very large, male suspect” moved towards an officer, naked and covered in blood. The suspect, Caleb Jon Sims, allegedly ignored officers commands and was subsequently tased, placed under arrest and transported to the hospital.

The CPD also shared that Sims admitted to being under the influence of drugs. Sims was charged with public lewdness, disorderly conduct and public intoxication.

Calera Police Chief David Hyche shared on Facebook that he is thankful for every person that aided in this arrest, from the citizens that reported the incident, to the dispatchers and officers that responded.

“First, I want to thank all of the citizens for calling and giving us information that allowed us to end this within 10 minutes of the first call,” Hyche said. “Next, I want to commend Sgt Yarenko and his entire shift along with our dispatchers for responding and ending this so rapidly.”

Hyche also shared that he is grateful that the incident did not escalate.

“I cannot emphasize enough how proud I am to work with true professionals,” Hyche said. “We at Calera PD don’t apologize for enforcing the law, but we also care about individuals (suspects included) and their welfare. Not many of us, myself included, go to work knowing that we might have to deal with something like this and make a split second decision that could save or end lives.”

The Calera Police Department reported knowledge of 18 victims with property damage, including vehicles and homes. If any residents discover damage they believe was caused by Sims, the police encourage them to contact the CPD at 205-668-3505.