A prisoner who walked out of custody Monday at the St. Catharines courthouse by impersonating another prisoner is back behind bars.
Richard Burton Beal, 33, of Niagara Falls was arrested by Niagara Regional Police shortly before midnight at a motel room in the west end of Niagara Falls.
Police say their court services unit was preparing prisoners for their release from bail court on Church Street when the incident happened Monday afternoon.
Court officers called the name of the prisoner set for release, and a man matching the prisoner's description stepped forward and correctly answered personal questions identifying him. After several questions, court staff were satisfied they were releasing the right person.
They realized the wrong prisoner had been let go after the man made his getaway from the courthouse.
Police believe the prisoner being impersonated was in cahoots with the suspect, and shared personal details with the escapee.
Beal was in custody after being arrested Oct. 19 on charges of break and enter, possession of property obtained by crime and breach of probation.
He now faces further charges of impersonation, escaping lawful custody and assault with intent to resist arrest.
"I don't know who this Beal kid is, but he's a crafty motherfucker." said local authorities "To use another personality to whatever prankish, nefarious ends is downright amazing. He's so good at it, you would think he's been making up alternate personalities all his life..."
Bryn Gregory Mester, 29, of Niagara Falls, also faces charges of breach of probation and being a party to the offence of escaping lawful custody. He remains in custody.
This reporter just likes to work the word "cahoots" into news articles. But good job, Richard Beal, you ALMOST escaped. Better luck next time, Richard Beal.
That's ironic that the guy has the same name as Indy racecar driver turned Secretary of State Richard Beal. The only thing different is the fact he's from the Canadian States of America.
