John Manchec Net Worth: How a French Millionaire Tried to Escape Jail and Flee to His Castle

John Manchec is a 78-year-old French multimillionaire who is currently in jail in Florida, facing 49 counts of possessing child pornography. He was arrested in 2014, but his trial has been delayed for years due to various legal issues. He holds dual U.S. and French citizenship, and owns a castle in France, a 145-foot yacht, and a private jet. According to Florida Residents Directory, his net worth is estimated at $663,409, but this may not include his overseas assets.

The Escape Plot

Manchec allegedly hatched an elaborate and expensive plan to escape from jail and flee to his castle in France, where he hoped to avoid extradition. The plot involved a medical appointment set for April 12, 2023, which he intended to use as an opportunity to break free from the custody of the prison guards. He had hired several employees and inmates to help him execute the plan, which included the following steps:

• His employees would pepper-spray the prison guards and take him to a black van waiting outside the medical facility.
• The van would drive him to his private plane located in nearby Fort Pierce, where he would board and fly to the Bahamas.
• From there, he would transfer to his yacht and sail to France, where he owns a castle in the Loire Valley.
• He had also packed a suitcase with his favorite liquor and clothes, and paid the bail for a cellmate who would live in his house until he returned.

The Foiled Attempt

However, Manchec’s plan was foiled by the authorities, who were tipped off by one of the people involved in the scheme. The investigators found evidence of the plot in the jail phone records, where Manchec used the code words “paint job” to discuss the details with his employees. They also searched his cell and found maps, diagrams, and other documents related to the escape.

On April 12, 2023, Manchec was taken to the medical facility as scheduled, but he was unaware that he was being watched by undercover agents. He made no attempt to escape, and was returned to his cell without incident. The sheriff announced the discovery of the plot at a press conference on May 24, 2023, and said that Manchec and four others were charged with conspiracy to commit escape.

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The Future Prospects

Manchec remains in jail, awaiting trial for his original charges of possessing child pornography. He faces up to 15 years in prison for each count, which could amount to a life sentence given his age. He also faces additional charges for his attempted escape, which could add more time to his sentence. His lawyer has not commented on the case publicly.

Manchec’s escape plot has attracted media attention and public curiosity, as it reveals the extent of his wealth and desperation. His net worth may be much higher than what is reported in public records, as he may have hidden assets in offshore accounts or other countries. His castle in France is reportedly worth $10 million, and his yacht and jet are also valuable assets. However, he may not be able to enjoy them anytime soon, as he faces a long legal battle and a possible extradition request from France.

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