Seven prison escapees have eluded authorities nearly four weeks by using survival skills they learned in the military and behind bars, experts say. They have the potential for doing bold and risky things. Despite an intensive manhunt, international publicity and a hefty reward, the men have been on the run since their Dec. 13 escape from a prison in Kenedy, about 60 miles southeast of San Antonio. The men are accused of shooting Irving Police Officer Aubrey Hawkins 11 times and running over his body during their getaway. And if you're a career criminal, you've gone to criminal school anyway . . .
Experts agree that the escapees are enjoying the media attention.
People with that nature are creative, intense, unpredictable and thrive in unexpected situations, Farley said. Such people often join the military, he said. The group likely is smart and has a high level of trust, he said. Killing Hawkins may have been Rivas' way of keeping the group together, Farley said. Experts say serial rapist Larry Harper may be teaching his fellow escapees some military skills.