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Police asking people to check security, trail cameras for evidence of escaped convicts

Posted 6/18/15

As New York State Police expand their search for two escaped inmates to include abandoned buildings and seasonal roads, investigators are asking homeowners and hunters with surveillance or trail cams …

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Police asking people to check security, trail cameras for evidence of escaped convicts

Posted

As New York State Police expand their search for two escaped inmates to include abandoned buildings and seasonal roads, investigators are asking homeowners and hunters with surveillance or trail cams to check them for footage of suspicious activity on or after June 6.

On that day, Clinton Correctional Facility inmates Richard Matt, 48, and David Sweat, 35, broke out of the maximum-security prison using power tools and remain on the run.

Troopers ask anyone who discovers footage of the escapees or any other suspicious activity to contact 1-800-448-3847.

Troopers say law enforcement are checking seasonal camps and abandoned buildings in the region, as well as continuing to sweep trails and railroad beds looking for any signs of the two escapees. To date, state, federal and local law enforcement officers have cleared more than 160 unoccupied buildings and seasonal homes, and have searched 585 miles of railroad beds and trails. This effort will continue to expand geographically throughout the region. Today’s search involves all available assets, including aviation and K9 units, according to a statement from state police Troop B Commander Maj. Charles Guess.

The state police are maintaining a strong and visible presence in the region. More than 160 troopers have been assigned to patrol the communities surrounding the prison 24 hours a day, troopers said.

More than 600 law enforcement officers from the New York State Police, Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, Department of Environmental Conservation, FBI, U.S. Marshals, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and Clinton, Essex and Franklin county sheriffs’ departments continue to follow leads in the case. As of Thursday, more than 1,500 leads have been generated, troopers said.

Troopers say they are reminding the public to remain vigilant. They say people should not hesitate to report any suspicious activity including any signs of a trespass, burglary or vehicle larceny. People can contact 911, a local law enforcement agency, or the New York State Police to report any information related to this investigation at (518) 563-3761 or 1-800-GIVETIP. Tips can also be sent by email to crimetip@troopers.ny.gov.