Michael J. Thomas, 35, was arrested on September 3 after an unusual attempt to evade police by swimming across a pond. The incident began when a Tompkins County Sheriff’s deputy, conducting routine property checks, spotted Thomas leaving a closed business on Elmira Road in Ithaca early Tuesday morning. The deputy, aware of recent burglaries in the area, attempted to question Thomas, who then fled the scene.
Thomas ran from Elmira Road, down Brewery Lane, and into a densely wooded area. In a bold move to avoid capture, he swam across a nearby pond.
Despite his efforts, authorities located and arrested Thomas on Five Mile Drive (state Route 13A) after a thorough ground search.
An investigation confirmed that a burglary had occurred on Elmira Road, and Thomas matched the suspect’s description.
He was charged with third-degree burglary, fourth-degree criminal possession of stolen property, and possession of burglary tools. Notably, Thomas was already on parole for similar crimes.
Following his arrest, Thomas was taken to Cayuga Medical Center for evaluation before being placed in the custody of the Tompkins County Sheriff’s Office.
Read More News:
- Four Killed in CTA Blue Line Shooting: Suspect in Custody
- Chicago Teen Charged with Stealing E-Bike and Phone at Gunpoint
He is currently being held without bail at the Tompkins County Jail. For more details on the investigation, visit The Ithaca Voice.
