Maine fugitive arrested at Philadelphia International Airport while trying to board flight to Germany.
A 41-year-old man from Solon, Maine, Matthew Thomas Cooley, was arrested on Sunday at Philadelphia International Airport while attempting to flee to Germany. Authorities from U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) apprehended Cooley as he sought to board a flight to Frankfurt with a one-way ticket, according to information released by federal law enforcement officials.
The arrest was initiated at the departure gate, where CBP officers identified Cooley as a fugitive wanted on multiple felony charges in his home state. Following his apprehension, he was transferred to the Tinicum Township Police Department to begin extradition proceedings back to Maine.
Court records reveal that Cooley does not currently have an attorney listed and is being held at the George W. Hill Correctional Facility located in Delaware County, Pennsylvania.
The legal troubles facing Cooley escalated earlier this year when detectives from the Somerset County Sheriff’s Office attempted to arrest him in relation to a sexual assault investigation. During the encounter, Cooley allegedly pepper sprayed the detectives, complicating the arrest process. The investigation was sparked by allegations from a 31-year-old woman who reported that Cooley had sexually assaulted her on two separate occasions the previous year. Further scrutiny of his residence by law enforcement revealed the presence of multiple firearms and extensive ammunition.
In total, Cooley faces serious charges in Maine, including two counts of gross sexual assault, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, domestic violence stalking, and two counts of assaulting law enforcement officers. Additionally, he is charged with refusing to submit to arrest.
Elliott N. Ortiz, CBP Area Port Director in Philadelphia, emphasized the agency’s commitment to leveraging their border security authority in capturing dangerous fugitives, especially those attempting to evade justice. This apprehension reflects a broader collaboration between border security agencies and law enforcement officials to ensure community safety and uphold justice for victims of violent crimes.
As this case progresses, Cooley’s legal status remains uncertain, with extradition proceedings expected to unfold shortly. The circumstances surrounding this incident serve to highlight ongoing concerns regarding public safety and the legal measures employed to address serious criminal behavior.
