Breaking News: Danilo Cavalcante, the infamous convict who successfully escaped from prison last summer, has finally been brought to justice. After leading authorities on a 13-day manhunt in Chester County, Cavalcante pleaded guilty on Friday to charges of escape, burglary, and related offenses that shook the region to its core.
Originally from Brazil, 35-year-old Cavalcante appeared before Chester County Judge Allison Bell Royer to enter his plea. He was sentenced to an additional 15 to 30 years in prison, on top of his existing life sentence for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Deborah Brandao, in 2021. The consecutive sentence ensures that Cavalcante will pay for his crimes for years to come.
Update: In a surprising turn of events, a woman on a Wildwood beach was accidentally hit by a police truck driving on the sand.
The spectacular escape took place almost a year ago when Cavalcante managed to slip away from the prison in Pocopson Township. He navigated through walls, roofs, and razor wire fencing to evade capture, right after he had been sentenced for Brandao’s murder. The daring escape set off a massive manhunt that gripped the entire Chester County region.
CHESTER COUNTY PRISON OFFICIALS RELEASE VIDEO OF DANELO CAVALCANTE’S ESCAPE FROM THE EXERCISE YARD
Internal and criminal investigations into the escape of Cavalcante are ongoing, and Prison Officials will provide additional information as able. pic.com/Thg2YzAOQ0
— Chester County District Attorney’s Office (@chescoda) September 6, 2023
The ensuing manhunt spanned a wide area, causing disruptions and panic in the community. Schools were closed, and law enforcement officials were on high alert as sightings of Cavalcante poured in. He was even caught on surveillance video hiding at Longwood Gardens, a popular botanical destination.
During his escape, Cavalcante committed a string of crimes, stealing vehicles, weapons, and clothing from unsuspecting Chester County residents. A dramatic standoff ensued when a property owner confronted him with a pistol after he tried to steal a loaded rifle from a garage. Eventually, Cavalcante was apprehended in a wooded area behind a business in South Coventry Township.
Following his capture, Cavalcante faced a multitude of charges, including escape, burglary, trespassing, and firearm offenses. The Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General oversaw his case, bringing him to justice for the havoc he wreaked during his time on the run.
“This defendant’s actions caused fear and unrest in our community, and it took a tremendous effort from law enforcement to ensure his capture,” said Attorney General Michelle Henry. “I commend the dedication of the countless officers who worked tirelessly to bring him back behind bars.”
Since Cavalcante’s escape, the Chester County Prison has implemented enhanced security measures to prevent future incidents. Additional cameras, guards, and updated protocols now safeguard the facility to prevent similar escapes in the future. Cavalcante’s capture and subsequent transfer to State Correctional Institution Phoenix in Montgomery County mark the end of a harrowing chapter in Chester County’s history.