Crime & Safety
St. Louis, MO Police Search for Escaped Inmate, 29, Sunday Morning Oct 18
St. Louis, MO – Police are searching for a 29 year old inmate who escaped from the City Justice Center, prompting an urgent public safety warning Sunday morning for residents across the St. Louis area
By Natalie Rhodes · 2026-10-18T16:21:38.536Z
St. Louis, MO – Police are searching for a 29 year old inmate who escaped from the City Justice Center, prompting an urgent public safety warning Sunday morning for residents across the St. Louis area.
According to the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department , Maurio Thomas, 29, escaped from the detention facility while being held on sexual assault and burglary charges. Authorities are asking the public to remain alert and take precautions while officers work to locate him.
The St. Louis County Police Department also shared the alert, expanding awareness of the search beyond city limits.
Police Release Description of Escaped Inmate Thomas is described as approximately 5 feet, 9 inches tall and weighing 130 pounds.
Investigators said he may now be wearing gray shorts.
Police released surveillance images showing a person believed to be Thomas walking along a roadway and sidewalk, along with a booking photograph to help the public identify him.
Authorities have not disclosed how Thomas escaped, when he left the facility or where he may be headed.
The charges against Thomas remain allegations, and the release did not provide information about the status of his criminal proceedings.
Residents Urged to Lock Doors and Secure Vehicles The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department issued a direct warning to residents as the search continues.
Officials are urging people to lock their doors, secure vehicles and remove keys from unattended cars.
Police specifically warned residents not to approach or follow Thomas if they believe they have spotted him.
Instead, anyone who sees Thomas or has information about his whereabouts should immediately call 911.
The alert comes as officers continue searching for Thomas in the St. Louis area. Authorities have not announced an arrest or confirmed his current location in the supplied updates.
Residents are encouraged to monitor official police communications for additional information as the investigation develops.