Infamous Escapee Reflects on His Crimes and Regrets

David Sweatt, infamous for his involvement in the “Escape at Dannemora,” recently opened up during an exclusive prison interview. He was involved in a 23-day manhunt after breaking out of a Clinton prison and has now expressed regret over his choice of crime partner.

In his own words, “If I hadn’t done it with him, I’d probably still be out,” referring to fellow fugitive Richard Matt.

For the first time in eight years, Sweatt, now 44, addressed the media while at the Marcy Islands medium-security facility. His emotions were evident as he spoke after his escape, which took place on June 6, 2015. He noted that this was the first visit he’s had in three years.

Reflecting on their escape plan, he said, “If I had known everything about him before, I would probably have done it alone.” Sweatt once suspected Matt of being a police informant, which certainly added to his mistrust. Matt was sentenced to 25 years for the horrific murder of his former employer, a crime that added gravity to Sweatt’s own violent past, including a life sentence for killing a sheriff’s detective.

Sweatt didn’t hold back when discussing Matt’s drinking, saying, “You can’t trust someone like that, and that’s worse than drinking.” They had come across a bottle of liquor during their time on the run, which seemed to complicate matters.

Sweatt seems to struggle with his past, trying not to dwell on regret while acknowledging the need for change within the corrections system. Yet, he resignedly noted that he expects to be incarcerated for the rest of his life, saying, “I just wanted to be free.” His life now consists of days spent in an 18 x 5-foot cell.

After their escape, Sweatt and Matt initially fled towards Canada, camping in the wilderness and evading police, but eventually split up due to Matt’s slow pace. Matt was killed after a standoff with law enforcement, while Sweatt was captured after being shot just south of the border.

Thinking back to their plans, he mentioned Joyce Mitchell, a prison tailor who attempted to help them. Their escape involved elaborate preparations, including tools concealed in frozen burgers. However, she failed to meet them at the designated spot on the night of their escape.

Regarding the dramatized depiction of their escape in the 2018 series “Escape at Dannemora,” Sweatt expressed his displeasure, claiming that many elements were inaccurate, particularly regarding his relationship with Mitchell. “I don’t like it because a lot of things weren’t true,” he said.

With a heavy heart, he reflected on his current circumstances, acknowledging that he doesn’t believe he could escape again. “They will never let me go to the public,” he asserted, fearing mistrust from authorities.

When asked about feelings of loneliness, tears filled his eyes as he quietly confirmed, “Yes.” He mentioned a past girlfriend who couldn’t cope with his unstable living conditions and how he spends his time reading and working out with books in his cell.

His fondness for nature shines through as he talks about watching wildlife through his cell window. “There are birds and squirrels that come here,” he shared with a hint of joy.

Sweatt also chuckled at news regarding Joyce Mitchell, recalling her marriage and the controversy surrounding her actions. Ultimately, he expressed sympathy for her, stressing the long-term difficulties she faced after the events of 2015.