Crime Watch: 12 Days of Fugitives, Day 5: Phillip Donovan

Phillip Donovan

A convicted killer who in 1982 escaped from the Bradenton Work Release Center in is today's "Fugitive of the Day," a state law enforcement public relations campaign targeting 12 of Florida's most dangerous fugitives.

Phillip Donovan, now 70, was serving a life sentence for a 1964 robbery-slaying in Miami Beach, when he escaped.

A news release offers the details:

Donovan was convicted of first-degree murder for the shooting death of a hotel clerk. On April 11, 1964, Donovan entered a Miami Beach hotel and demanded the clerk hand over money. When the clerk refused, Donovan shot him between the eyes. Donovan is also believed to have committed other violent crimes in the New York City area.

Donovan served in the U.S. Army in a clerical position. He has been employed as a bartender, shipping clerk, delivery man, and has done farm work. He enjoys softball, baseball, shooting pool, swimming, and going to the movies.

“Donovan has been on the run for almost 28 years,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Madden. “He has relatives in New York City and has been spotted in the Miami and Belle Glades area.”

Chambers is 6’1” and at the time of his escape was approximately 170 pounds. He has brown eyes and gray hair. He has the following tattoos: a heart, “Joe” on his left arm, and a panther on his right arm. He may use the alias Joseph Michael Capano.

Donovan will be featured on digital billboards across the state. The Florida Outdoor Advertising Association (FOAA) and its network of member companies are broadcasting the faces of the fugitives and the tip line number throughout the campaign period. There are 90 digital billboard locations statewide.

There is an active warrant for Donovan for escape, a first-degree felony. The warrant is for nationwide extradition. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to call the toll free tip line at 1-877-FLA-WANTED (1-877-352-9268) or e-mail FLAWanted@fdle.state.fl.us.