Officials in Conn. capture 2 female jail escapees

NIANTIC, Conn. (AP) — Authorities say they have captured two inmates who escaped from the York Correctional Institution.

Officials say 30-year-old Melissa Riley, of Willimantic, and 34-year-old Jessica Rivera, of Waterbury, were captured about 8 p.m. Sunday at a house in Hartford. They were returned to York Correctional, where they were charged with escape and held on $500,000 bail each.

"What we will see, is if there is any assistance, if there are any other people that might be culpable and assisted these people in their escape," said Lt. J Paul Vance, Connecticut State Police.

Prison officials say they could not locate the pair at the minimum security facility about 8:15 p.m. Saturday.

The facility was placed in lockdown.

Police say media reports showing their photos lead to a tip.

"To have someone provide us with some information that enabled us to go to a private residence, in Hartford last evening, locate both individuals and take them into custody without incident," said Vance.

Riley was in prison for a drug charge, while Rivera was serving time for conspiracy.