Inmate Climbed Through Razor Wire In Chesco Prison Escape Attempt: DA

WEST CHESTER, PA — An inmate at the Chester County Prison tried to escape Wednesday, according to authorities.

The Chester County District Attorney's Office said Thomas Hackett, 35, of Phoenixville, tried to flee the facility Wednesday afternoon and has been charged with attempted escape.

Authorities said Hackett climbed up a fence and through layers of razor wire in a prison yard Wednesday at about 2:30 p.m.

A corrections officer noticed that several inmates pointing and looking towards a section of razor wire at the top of a recreational prison yard, the DA's office said.

The officer saw Hackett was caught in the security razor wire near the roof, according to authorities.

Hackett pushed through the razor wire and onto the roofline, where he jumped down, the DA's office said.

Hackett was apprehended by a corrections officer before reaching the next layer of fencing and barbed wire that runs along the edge of the prison grounds, authorities said.

During his attempted escape, Hackett was cut several times and required treatment at a hospital, according to the DA's office.

Hacket was incarcerated after being charged with indecent exposure and open lewdness on June 12 by the Phoenixville Police Department.

Detectives are investigating the circumstances around the attempted escape.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the Chester County Detectives at 610-344-6866.