Escaped Convict: Manhunt Prompts Closure of Pottstown District Court

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CHESTER COUNTY, PA — The Pennsylvania State Police and the Chester County Detectives are engaged in a county-wide manhunt for Danelo Souza Cavalcante, an escaped convict who fled from Chester County prison this morning, August 31, 2023, around 8:30 am.

Cavalcante, 34, is a Brazilian national convicted of homicide and sentenced to life in prison. He is also wanted on additional homicide charges in his home country. Cavalcante was last seen wearing green pants or gray shorts and a white t-shirt.

Danelo Souza Cavalcante
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The search effort is currently focused in northern Chester County, where a stolen van believed to be used by Cavalcante was recovered. Authorities have warned residents in the areas of Ridge Rd/Coventryville Rd/Daisy Point Rd in South Coventry Township to remain vigilant, keep doors and windows locked, ensure vehicles are secure, and stay indoors whenever possible as Cavalcante is believed to be armed.

Authorities have issued a stern warning that anyone found aiding Cavalcante will face prosecution to the fullest extent of the law.

In response to this ongoing situation, a reward of $25,000 has been offered for information leading to Cavalcante’s apprehension. Anyone with information on Cavalcante’s whereabouts is urged to call 911 or PSP Command Post at (610) 344-4691 or (610) 344-4690. Anonymous tips can also be submitted to the Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers Toll Free at 1-800-4PA-TIPS (8477) or online at Pennsylvania Crime Stoppers.

Due to police activity and road closures related to the manhunt, Chester County government officials announced that the Pottstown District Court (15-3-01) will be closed today, September 12, 2023.

Residents are being urged to stay safe, report any suspicious activities, and cooperate with law enforcement agencies in their efforts to apprehend Cavalcante.

For the latest news on everything happening in Chester County and the surrounding area, be sure to follow MyChesCo on Google News and MSN.