New York State Police Launch Intensive Manhunt in Brewster Following Escape of Bronx Inmate

New York State Police are searching for 29-year-old Julio Sosa, who escaped custody in Brewster while wearing a distinctive hot pink coat.

By: AXL Media

Published: Mar 28, 2026, 9:07 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from News 12 Hudson Valley

A Sudden Breach of Custody in Putnam County

The quiet of Brewster was interrupted on Friday as New York State Police flooded the area in response to a prisoner escape. The individual, identified as Julio Sosa of The Bronx, managed to flee from law enforcement oversight while being processed for a non-violent larceny offense. The circumstances regarding the exact moment of the breach have not been fully disclosed, but the response was immediate, with multiple units establishing a perimeter to contain the 29 year old within the local vicinity.

Distinctive Description and Visual Identifiers

Law enforcement officials have released a specific description of Sosa to aid the public in his identification. At the time of his escape, he was observed wearing all-black clothing layered under a highly distinctive hot pink coat. This unique attire is a primary focus for officers conducting grid searches and reviewing local surveillance footage. Despite the inmate's fugitive status, state police representatives have emphasized that there is currently no known threat to the general public, as the underlying charges against Sosa were related to property theft rather than violent conduct.

Ongoing Search Efforts and Multi-Agency Response

The search operation remained active through Friday afternoon and into Saturday, with state police utilizing various resources to track the suspect through the Brewster landscape. Local residents reported seeing an increased number of patrol vehicles and officers stationed at key transit points. While the search is centered in Brewster, authorities are monitoring nearby transportation hubs that lead back toward the suspect's home borough of The Bronx, as escapes often involve an attempt to return to familiar territory.