David Sweat Claims He Practiced Escape and Was Almost Caught Twice During 3-Week Manhunt

Abcnews.go.com Escaped prisoner David Sweat told investigators he was almost discovered twice during the three weeks authorities were searching the woods of upstate New York for him and fellow inmate Richard Matt — including one time that police walked right by him as he hid in a hunting tree stand, officials said. Sweat also revealed to investigators he and Matt did a dry-run the night before their June 6 prison break, Clinton County District Attorney Andrew Wylie told ABC News today. The prisoners may have been planning their escape for six months, Wylie said. Sweat told investigators that the first time he was almost caught, both he and Matt were hiding near a cabin when three people came to check on it, Wylie said. The people were discussing whether they should stay at the cabin or leave and Sweat said he and Matt were close enough to hear their conversation, Wylie said. Sweat told the investigators he and Matt stayed hidden until the three people left, according to the DA. The second instance happened within the past week, after Sweat and Matt separated, Sweat allegedly told investigators. Sweat claimed he was hiding in a hunting tree stand when an officer walked past him, Wylie said...