Books to Borrow Martinsburg Public Library Recommends

"Dannemora" is written by Charles A. Gardner. This nonfiction book tells the account of the largest manhunt ever in New York state. The book follows the escape and ultimate capture of convicted killers Richard Matt and David Sweat.

Gardner is a former corrections officer who spent 25 years working in different prisons including the maximum-security prison, Clinton Correctional Facility, in Dannemora, New York. He writes the story with the unique perspective of a lifelong resident of New York state's North Country.

Matt and Sweat were two vicious, convicted murderers who escaped from the Clinton Correctional Facility in June 2015. Their escape led to a three-week-long, extensive manhunt and ended in a bloody standoff. The escape became possible due to events taking place years prior to June 2015. These events, including a relationship with prison employee, Joyce Mitchell, ultimately allowed these violent murderers the opportunity to escape.

Matt and Sweat's own intelligence combined with the state of New York's budget cuts and lax implementation of security measures also contributed to their escape. Mitchell had developed an unhealthy relationship with both inmates and was instrumental in their escape. The two men terrorized the New York community for weeks before the final showdown with law enforcement.

The account of this three-week ordeal with more than 2,000 active participants is an informative and gripping look at the lives of Matt and Sweat. For the true crime fans, this book is a must read.