A fugitive who had been on the run for over three decades was finally apprehended last week. The man, identified as Greg Lawson, a 63-year-old Louisiana native, was found hiding in Mexico after a tip led the FBI to his location.
What makes this story even more intriguing is that Lawson, upon being taken into custody, responded with laughter.
The saga of Lawson’s evasion began back in 1991 when he was accused of attempted murder. As the jury prepared to deliver a guilty verdict, Lawson made a daring escape from the courthouse.
His abandoned truck was later discovered just down the street, marking the beginning of a 32-year-long manhunt.
The three-decades-long search for a man convicted of attempted murder is over, thanks to a tip received by #FBINewOrleans. This morning, 63-year-old Greg Lawson is back in a Louisiana jail awaiting action by Bienville Parish authorities. https://t.co/HGdL4xJvHg pic.twitter.com/kVLfx8O7dS
— FBI New Orleans (@FBINewOrleans) September 22, 2023
Lawson’s capture was the result of a collaborative effort between the FBI and Mexican Immigration authorities. Acting on a tip-off, the FBI New Orleans office coordinated with their counterparts in Shreveport and Mexican officials to locate Lawson in Huatulco, Mexico, on September 19th.
In violation of Mexican immigration laws, Lawson was promptly deported back to the United States.
Upon his arrival in the U.S., Lawson was escorted by authorities at an airport. A video posted by the FBI shows Lawson nervously laughing as he was handcuffed, a reaction that has since sparked widespread interest.
Despite the gravity of his crimes and the seriousness of his situation, Lawson seemed to find humor in his long-overdue capture.
Douglas A. Williams Jr., the Special Agent in Charge of FBI New Orleans, expressed gratitude towards the public and partners who never lost hope that justice would be served.
He emphasized the tireless efforts of all involved have finally brought closure to a case that has spanned over three decades.
A US fugitive was caught in Mexico after more than 30 years on the run – and he appears to just laugh it off as he's being handcuffed.
Greg Lawson fled Louisiana in 1991, before a jury found him guilty of attempted second-degree murder. pic.twitter.com/yqsnjwW7qp
— Metro (@MetroUK) September 23, 2023
Now back on American soil, Lawson awaits action by Bienville Parish authorities. His capture marks the end of a long and arduous search, proving that no matter how long it takes, justice will always prevail.
The laughter that echoed as Lawson was handcuffed serves as a chilling reminder of the audacity of criminals, but also as a testament to the relentless pursuit of justice by law enforcement agencies.
No matter how far or for how long one runs, the long arm of the law will eventually catch up.
