(WNY News Now) – Michael Burham, the fugitive who escaped from Warren County Prison in July, has pleaded guilty to charges related to both his prison break and the kidnapping of an older couple in Pennsylvania. Attorney General Michelle Henry announced the developments, stating that Burham, 34, attempted to evade a murder investigation in New York during his escape.
HARRISBURG – Michael Burham, the 34-year-old inmate who successfully escaped from Warren County Prison in July, has entered a guilty plea for charges stemming from both his prison break and the kidnapping of an older couple in Pennsylvania. Attorney General Michelle Henry made the announcement, underlining the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in bringing Burham to justice.
Burham, originally incarcerated for the kidnapping incident, orchestrated a daring escape from Warren County Prison on July 6, 2023. Climbing atop exercise equipment, he navigated through a grated metal roof and descended using a makeshift rope crafted from bedsheets. Subsequently, he remained a fugitive for nine days until apprehended by Pennsylvania State Police on July 15.
The charges against Burham include not only the initial kidnapping case, which is being prosecuted by the Warren County District Attorney’s Office, but also the escape from prison, for which the Office of Attorney General is responsible. Senior Deputy Attorney General Evan Lowry and Deputy Attorney General Heather Serrano are prosecuting the case.
Attorney General Henry commended the collaborative efforts of various law enforcement agencies involved in capturing Burham. She specifically praised the Pennsylvania State Police for their role in bringing the fugitive to justice. Additionally, recognition was given to the dedicated efforts of the Warren County District Attorney’s Office and the City of Warren Police Department.
“The defendant was on the run for nine days in an attempt to evade justice,” said Attorney General Henry. “I commend the efforts of Pennsylvania State Police who took this defendant into custody, as well as my team, the Warren County District Attorney’s Office, and the City of Warren Police Department, for their work in holding the defendant accountable for his many crimes.”
Burham’s guilty plea marks a significant step in the legal proceedings. The plea covers charges related to the escape from prison and the initial kidnapping case. The impending sentencing is scheduled for January 5, 2024.
Leave a Reply