Courtroom Drama Unfolds in Skowhegan as Jurors Intervene and Capture Convicted Child Abuser Trying to Evade Custody

This week, a dramatic scene unfolded in a Maine courthouse, where two jurors unexpectedly became heroes.

Their quick actions helped capture a convicted child abuser who made a desperate bid for freedom right after learning his sentence.

Escape Attempt at Somerset County Superior Court

Nicholas Carter, 31, had just been found guilty of aggravated assault against a 14-month-old child on Wednesday at Somerset County Superior Court in Skowhegan, according to the Waterville Morning Sentinel.

With the verdict delivered, Carter, who was handcuffed and wearing a suit and tie, made a sudden escape.

Chase Through the Courthouse

The moment Carter bolted through the courthouse, footage captured three officials sprinting after him.

Despite being handcuffed, Carter managed to make it out of a rear door and across the street.

However, his escape was short-lived.

He tripped and fell, giving two jurors, who had been in the courtroom, the chance to intervene and restrain him.

Return to Custody

Somerset County Sheriff Dale Lancaster confirmed that Carter was quickly taken back into custody without further incident.

He now faces an additional charge of escape, as reported by the Portland Press Herald.

Eyewitness Accounts

Attorney Dawn DiBlasi, who was also serving as the town manager, described the chaotic scene from her perspective.

She recounted, “All of a sudden, we hear this huge bang—crash, boom.

This guy comes running down the stairs, handcuffed or shackled, trying to escape.”

DiBlasi noted that Carter was using the railing for support while descending the stairs but was not shackled at his feet.

No Injuries Reported

Fortunately, there were no injuries reported during this incident.

Carter had been out on bail before his trial, as stated by Somerset County Superior Courthouse Chief Deputy Mike Mitchell.

He is expected to be sentenced for the assault case in the coming weeks, although a specific date had not yet been set as of Friday.