A West Chester man who fled trial on rape charges last week has been captured.

Shannon Westmoreland, 48, was taken into custody late Monday afternoon by members of the U.S. Marshal Service Fugitive Task Force in Daytona Beach, Florida.

He had been on the run since Oct. 22 when he failed to appear for trial on allegations of child sexual abuse. President Judge Jeffrey L. Finley revoked his bail and issued a bench warrant.

Westmoreland also was charged last week with default in required appearance as a result of his decision to not come to court.

“In finding and arresting this defendant, the U.S. Marshal Service has shown again why they're the best in the business when it comes to finding people who don't want to be found,” said Bucks County District Attorney Matthew D. Weintraub. “While it is now our job to bring this man to justice, we would be unable to do so if not for the Marshals' tireless efforts and expertise. They never let us down.”

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Shannon Westmoreland

The Marshals say Westmoreland was taken into custody without incident at about 5:30 p.m. after they stopped a minivan he was driving. He was taken to Volusia County Jail for processing.

“It is a top priority for the Marshals Service to bring those charged with serious sex crimes to justice. I hope the victims will find comfort knowing Mr. Westmoreland is once again in custody,” said Supervisory Deputy Robert Clark, of the U.S. Marshal Service.

Bucks County Detectives, Bensalem Police and the Bucks County Sheriff's Office worked in collaboration with the Marshals to investigate Westmoreland's whereabouts.

Deputy District Attorney Kristin M. McElroy will continue to handle Westmoreland's prosecution upon his return to Bucks County.

Criminal charges are allegations subject to proof in court. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Contact: Kristin M. McElroy, 215.348.6336, kmmcelroy@buckscounty.org