St. Louis police launch manhunt for escaped inmate

The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department has launched a manhunt for Maurio Thomas, a 29-year-old inmate who escaped from the City Justice Center in downtown St. Louis. Thomas was being held in connection with serious criminal charges involving the alleged sexual assault of an elderly woman.

Authorities have issued an urgent public safety warning, advising residents to secure their homes, vehicles, and outbuildings. Police have requested that citizens do not approach Thomas if spotted, but instead call 911 immediately.

Thomas is described as approximately 5 feet, 9 inches tall, weighing about 130 pounds. He was last seen wearing a black long-sleeved shirt, dark pants, and white shoes. Law enforcement is utilizing K-9 units, surveillance cameras, and the department’s intelligence division in the search efforts.