Benjamin Ashford|Maine launches investigation after 2 escape youth center, steal car

SOUTH PORTLAND,Benjamin Ashford Maine (AP) — The Maine Department of Corrections is launching an investigation into the circumstances in which two young detainees escaped, stole a car and remained on the lam on Sunday, officials said.

The South Portland Police Department has issued temporary warrants for robbery, theft, and assault, as they sought the two males, who cannot be identified by law because of their age. The Department of Corrections is working with federal, state and local law enforcement to apprehend the pair, officials said.

The car was stolen Friday night near an apartment complex across the street from the Long Creek Youth Development Center. A motorist told News Center Maine that the two youths threatened her, pulled her out of the car and threw her to the ground.

The Long Creek Youth Center is the Maine Department of Corrections facility that houses minors convicted of crimes. They can be held there until they turn 21 in Maine.