Puerto Rican Prison Escapee Captured in Florida After 40 Years on the Run
In a remarkable turn of events, a man who escaped from a Puerto Rican prison 40 years ago was finally apprehended in Florida. The fugitive, identified as Juan Hernandez, was arrested in Lee County on March 11, 2025, bringing an end to decades of evasion.
Hernandez, now 63, had escaped from a correctional facility in Puerto Rico in 1985 while serving a sentence for armed robbery. After his escape, he managed to evade law enforcement by assuming a new identity and moving to Florida, where he lived quietly under the radar. It was only through a tip from a vigilant citizen that authorities were able to track him down and make the arrest.
The Lee County Sheriff's Office, in collaboration with the U.S. Marshals Service, conducted a thorough investigation that led to Hernandez's capture. Sheriff Mike Scott praised the teamwork and dedication of the officers involved, stating, 'This case is a testament to the persistence of law enforcement and the importance of community vigilance.'
Hernandez is currently being held at the Lee County Jail, awaiting extradition back to Puerto Rico to serve the remainder of his sentence. The case has drawn significant attention due to the length of time Hernandez was able to remain at large, raising questions about the effectiveness of interstate and inter-agency communication in tracking down fugitives.
This arrest not only brings closure to a long-standing case but also serves as a reminder of the enduring commitment of law enforcement to uphold justice, no matter how much time has passed.
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