UPDATE: Search Continues for Escapees
NEW YORK STATE POLICE
Major Charles E. Guess
Troop B Commander
PRESS RELEASE
The New York State Police continue to search for escaped Clinton Correctional Facility inmates Richard Matt and David Sweat.
The focus of the ground search Thursday is a heavily wooded area off New York State Route 374, east of Dannemora. Search teams are following up on a lead that was developed late Wednesday.
Thursday’s search involves more than 500 law enforcement personnel, along with K9 and aviation units. The State Police are being assisted by the FBI, U.S. Marshals, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, officers from the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, Department of Environmental Conservation, Forest Rangers, Clinton and Essex County Sheriff Departments, and the Plattsburgh Police Department.
Route 374 remains closed between General Leroy Manor Road and Rand Hill Road in the town of Plattsburgh. The road will remain closed during this search. In addition, residents in the area can expect to see an increased police presence throughout the day.
The State Police want to thank local residents and businesses for their patience and cooperation during this search.
The public should make no hesitation to report any suspicious activity; that includes any sign of a trespass, burglary or vehicle larceny. Contact 911, your 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.
