A person being tried for a misdemeanor, upon request in writing, subscribed by him, may, with the consent of the magistrate, be tried in his absence, but no right shall exist in the defendant to be so tried. If after trial commences a person being tried escapes or departs without leave, the trial shall proceed and verdict or finding be received and sentence passed as if he were personally present.
(R.C. § 2938.12) (‘74 Code, § 32.43)