SANFORD, Fla. — George Zimmerman, who slipped out of jail on $150,000 bail in the early-morning darkness, went back into hiding Monday and likely fled to another state to avoid threats as he awaits his second-degree murder trial for the killing of Trayvon Martin.

His release from jail came less than a day before the Sanford City Commission rejected by a 3-2 vote the resignation of Police Chief Bill Lee, who was roundly criticized for not initially charging Zimmerman.

Even though authorities can pinpoint Zimmerman’s location with a GPS ankle bracelet, which he must wear round the clock, the public may not see him again for some time. Zimmerman has waived his appearance at his arraignment next month, so he can stay underground if he wants.

Zimmerman already has experience laying low: For more than a month before his arrest, he eluded the media and his whereabouts were not known. His attorney has suggested he had several options for where Zimmerman can stay this time, and a judge indicated he was willing to let Zimmerman leave the state.

The police chief is on paid leave. He stepped aside temporarily in March to let emotions cool. Not long ago, the commissioners gave him a “no-confidence vote” that City Manager Norton Bonaparte said still stands. The shooting also led to the local prosecutor recusing himself from the case, and the governor appointing Angela Corey, who eventually charged Zimmerman.

Most commissioners on Monday blamed the polarization over the Martin case and its handling by the police department on outside groups. They said they wanted to wait for an outside investigation to conclude into the police department’s handling of the case before accepting the resignation agreement drawn up by the city manager and Lee.

 


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