Juveniles Escape from Clock Tower Schools Facility

The Clock Tower Schools facility that recently faced an escape incident involving juveniles.

News Summary

Two juveniles remain at large after escaping from the Clock Tower Schools facility in Thornbury Township. The escape occurred when three court-committed residents stole a staff member’s vehicle. While two were apprehended, one 15-year-old fugitive is still missing. Law enforcement is calling for public assistance in locating the escapee, raising concerns about the security measures at facilities designed to rehabilitate troubled youth.

Philadelphia, PA — Two juveniles remain at large following an escape from the Clock Tower Schools facility in Thornbury Township, Delaware County, which occurred on Sunday, May 18, 2025. The three escapees, 18-year-old Javontay Johnson, a 17-year-old boy, and a 15-year-old boy, all court-committed residents hailing from Washington, D.C., conducted their escape around 1:10 p.m. that day.

The escapees allegedly stole a staff member’s red 2016 Range Rover Evoque and a cell phone before fleeing the facility. Authorities tracked the stolen cell phone to Route 202, where it was headed south towards Wilmington, Delaware. However, the phone was deactivated after crossing into Delaware, complicating the police’s efforts to track the escapees.

Law enforcement officials managed to utilize tracking capabilities from ankle monitors worn by the escapees, enabling them to locate them more effectively. Reports later confirmed that all three individuals returned to Washington, D.C. Subsequently, on May 20, 2025, police apprehended Javontay Johnson and the 17-year-old boy in Washington, D.C. The 15-year-old, however, remains unaccounted for and is still considered a fugitive.

Criminal charges have been submitted against the 17-year-old and the 15-year-old as investigations by the Delaware County District Attorney’s Office continue. In the meantime, local law enforcement is urging the public to assist their efforts in locating the missing 15-year-old. Those with information are encouraged to contact the Pennsylvania State Police’s Media station at 484-840-1000 or reach out to Trooper Paul Holdefer at 215-452-5208.

This incident raises concerns about the security measures in place at reform schools, particularly those housing at-risk youth. The Clock Tower Schools facility serves as a temporary residential treatment center designed to help juveniles with emotional and behavioral issues. Its mission involves rehabilitating individuals through education and therapy rather than punishment.

The case highlights the challenges faced by institutions handling vulnerable youth who are often involved with the justice system. The movement away from punishment toward treatment reflects a broader trend in juvenile justice aimed at reducing recidivism rates and offering second chances for rehabilitation. However, incidents like this open up discussions regarding the adequacy of security measures and staff training required to prevent such escapes.

Authorities continue to assess the situation, and with the recent escape raising alarms, it is imperative that safety protocols within similar facilities are examined and improved. As the search for the remaining fugitive continues, collaboration between different law enforcement agencies will be crucial to ensure a swift resolution.

In conclusion, while two of the escapees have been returned to custody, the 15-year-old’s status remains concerning. The community’s involvement and enhanced law enforcement efforts may play a pivotal role in resolving this situation and ensuring public safety.