Danilo Cavalcante, the escaped inmate from a prison in Pennsylvania, is now facing multiple charges for crimes committed while on the run. The charges include burglary, theft, possession of a firearm, and receiving stolen property. The Pennsylvania Attorney General stated that Cavalcante used various means to escape and posed a threat to the public. He was captured after two weeks of evading law enforcement. Thao Nguyen reported
Convicted killer Danilo Cavalcante, who escaped from a prison in southeast Pennsylvania earlier this year, is now facing multiple new charges for crimes he allegedly committed while on the run. Pennsylvania State Police have charged Cavalcante with burglary, criminal trespassing, theft and possession of a firearm, and theft and receiving stolen property. These charges are related to residences that Cavalcante allegedly broke into and items he stole, including a transit van, a rifle, ammunition, clothing, a sleeping bag, and other belongings.
Pennsylvania Attorney General Michelle Henry stated that Cavalcante used various means to escape from prison and evade authorities, and these offenses have increased the threat he poses to the public. Cavalcante had previously escaped from Chester County Prison on August 31, just days after being sentenced to life in prison for murdering his ex-girlfriend in 2021. His escape sparked a two-week-long search that put communities across southeastern Pennsylvania on high alert.
During the search, Cavalcante allegedly committed several crimes, leading to the new charges. He is expected to be arraigned on these charges on Friday. The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General revealed that Cavalcante burglarized two homes in Pennsbury and South Coventry townships. He allegedly stole items to change his appearance, a getaway vehicle, and a rifle with ammunition.
One resident reported a burglary in Pennsbury Township but initially believed that nothing was missing. However, after Cavalcante was captured, the resident identified stolen items, including a knife, backpack, sleeping bag, shirt, and razor. In addition, Cavalcante was reportedly seen driving a stolen transit van in Pocopson Township, and the vehicle was later found abandoned. Another resident in South Coventry Township reported that a man resembling Cavalcante had entered their garage and stole a loaded rifle.
Cavalcante’s escape and subsequent capture caused significant disruption and concern in the community. The search involved hundreds of law enforcement officers and resulted in shelter-in-place orders, school closures, and blocked roads. Authorities were able to apprehend Cavalcante using thermal imaging technology.
The escape also raised criticism of Chester County Prison officials. Prior to the escape, prison staff had received a warning that Cavalcante might attempt to break out. The prison had a history of escape incidents, including one in May involving a prisoner who used the same route as Cavalcante. Concerns were raised about the prison’s leadership and operations, leading to the approval of security improvement plans that could cost up to $3.5 million.
In conclusion, Danilo Cavalcante’s escape from prison and subsequent crimes have resulted in numerous charges against him. The two-week search for Cavalcante caused fear and disruption in the community, and his capture highlighted the need for improved security measures at Chester County Prison..