In an unusual turn of events early Friday in Cambridge, a man was taken into custody after attempting to elude police by swimming across the Charles River. The initial incident occurred around 3 a.m. when Michael Stockwell was spotted by MIT police officers trying to break into a locked bicycle cage, as reported by NBC Boston. When questioned by the police, the pursuit ensued, culminating in the river escape. Despite the desperate attempt to avoid capture, officers were able to locate Stockwell on the grass of the Boston shore.
According to NBC Boston, Stockwell's alleged efforts to flee involved a motorcycle, which proved counterproductive as he ended up flipping the bike and causing damage to a police cruiser before making his aquatic escape. Attempting to drive off, Stockwell then led officers to the edge of the Charles River where he was heard swimming away to safety, temporarily, in the dark waters.
Stockwell faced a judge later that day, where six charges, including trespassing and malicious destruction of property, were leveled against him. A not guilty plea was entered on his behalf. Aside from the chaos that unfolded, defense counsel argued their client's actions were more reckless than criminal, stating, "He did panic when the police came, made some bad decisions, put his life at risk swimming across the Charles River," the lawyer said, as cited by NBC Boston. They further noted that Stockwell is a father with seemingly promising job prospects.
Additional efforts to locate the suspect involved coordinated work by the State Police, including the K9 unit, the Marine Unit, and the Dive Team, according to Boston 25 News. The escape not only prompted a swift response from law enforcement but also utilized drone technology courtesy of Boston Fire officials who actively participated in the search. While the suspect's identity was not immediately released by State Police, his actions painted a narrative of desperation to stay one stroke ahead of the law.
The MIT spokesperson expanded on the matter, revealing that Stockwell was also accused of attempting to steal from a bicycle locker on campus. The judge ordered a $500 bail and instructed Stockwell to steer clear of MIT property upon release, with a pretrial hearing set for September 12. It would seem that the heavy surveillance and security measures in place around the prestigious institution proved a formidable adversary to the pursuits of those who dare defy its boundaries.
