HARRISBURG, PA — In a verdict that culminated in an intense multi-departmental collaboration, Michael Burham, who had previously escaped from Warren County Prison, was sentenced on Friday, January 5, 2024, to an aggregate prison term of 25 years and 2 months to 50 years and 4 months. The announcement was made by Attorney General Michelle Henry.
Burham, 34, had been incarcerated at the Warren County Prison for kidnapping an elderly couple when he made his daring escape on July 6, 2023. Using exercise equipment as a makeshift ladder, Burham reached a grated metal roof and slid down a rope fashioned from bedsheets. He remained a fugitive until his capture by Pennsylvania State Police nine days later.
“The defendant used all possible means to escape the consequences of his actions,” said Attorney General Henry in her statement. “Today, thanks to hard work and collaboration between our office, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Warren County District Attorney’s Office, and the City of Warren Police Department, Michael Burham will be held accountable for his many crimes.”
The Office of Attorney General prosecuted Burham for his prison escape, while the Warren County District Attorney’s Office handled the kidnapping case. For the latter crime, a judge ordered a sentence of 21 years and 8 months to 43 years and 4 months. The sentences combined result in the total penalty of up to 50 years and 4 months.
It’s worth noting that Burham is also currently under investigation for murder in New York, adding yet another layer of criminal charges to his profile.
The case against Burham was referred to the Office of Attorney General by the Warren County District Attorney’s Office. It was prosecuted by Senior Deputy Attorney General Evan Lowry and Senior Deputy Attorney General Heather Serrano.
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