ENP STAFF REPORTS
news@eastniagarapost.com

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Richard Matt

The New York State Police levied charge against Joyce Mitchell, 51, of Dickinson Center, accusing her of providing material assistance to Richard Matt and David Sweat to assist them in escaping from Clinton Correctional Facility.

Mitchell was charged with first-degree promoting prison contraband and fourth-degree criminal facilitation.

As of Friday evening, the search for escapees David Sweat and Richard Matt continued to focus along State Route 374 in the town of Plattsburgh. Route 374 will remain closed between General Leroy Manor Road and Rand Hill Road until the search has been completed.

David Sweat

More than 800 law enforcement officers from state, local and federal agencies are assisting in this search. Officers and Forest Rangers from the Department of Environmental Conservation, as well as officers from the Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, FBI, U.S. Marshals, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Clinton and Essex County Sheriff Departments and the Plattsburgh Police Department are all providing assistance in the search. All available assets are being deployed around the clock, including K9 and aviation units. More than 700 leads have been developed at this point in the investigation.

Police advise the public to make no hesitation to report any suspicious activity, including 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.

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