State K9 unit 'Gauge' takes down fugitive in woods behind Lilac Mall

John R. Sweeney (NH State Police photo)

ROCHESTER - A convicted murderer wanted on parole violations was taken into custody in the woods behind the Lilac Mall on Thursday night, thanks to the help of a State Police K9 unit that was part of Mobile Enforcement Team searching for him.

John R. Sweeney, 52, of Concord, found guilty of second-degree murderer in the 1980s, had an active warrant for his arrest.

Sweeney was treated at Frisbie Memorial Hospital for injuries sustained as he was apprehended in the woods by Gauge and his handler before being transported to jail.

The incident unfolded around 7:45 p.m. as a state trooper interviewed two bicyclists in the parking lot of the mall after seeing them obstructing traffic as they rode their bikes on Milton Road.

A female bike rider who was with the other subject matched the description of a suspect involved in a theft at a local convenience store, police said.

Her male associate gave a false name, before being identified as Sweeney.

While state troopers were verifying his true identity, Sweeney dashed into the woods.

That's when Gauge was deployed, leading to a quick arrest.

Sweeney was being held at Strafford County House of Corrections where he was held without bail pending his return to New Hampshire State Prison. He will face charges from Thursday's incident later.

Anyone with information pertaining to this incident is asked to contact Trooper Matthew Locke of the New Hampshire State Police - Mobile Enforcement Team at 603-223-8490 or Matthew.Locke@dos.nh.gov.