SPRINGETTSBURY TOWNSHIP, Pa. -- Austin Craley, 20, was arrested in the York Galleria Mall after a tipster called 911 and said they spotted him.
He was sitting on a bench by the food court and went with officers willingly. He had three loaded handguns that he stole from his father in his backpack. It also contained clothing and more ammunition.
Craley was arraigned on charges of burglary and simple assault Wednesday.
Police said Craley was staying at hotels in Maryland and Pennsylvania.
York Area Regional Police Chief Tim Damon said, "In his possession we found a hotel key card, so we knew that he was staying at at least one place if not several."
Police said he didn't have access to his car and would have to use public transportation or a taxi. Social media helped police spread the word about Craley, but not everyone knew he was wanted.
Damon said, "He could hide and he could access hotels and places to stay without being recognized."
Craley, on the run for nearly three weeks, is charged with statutory sexual assault of a 14-year-old girl. He failed to appear for a scheduled court hearing in April, then police say he stole three guns from his father's home. Investigators said he then went to the victim's house and texted her that he was coming to get her, but he was scared when he saw her stepfather was home.
Police knew he was in contact with the 14-year-old victim, but they couldn't pinpoint his whereabouts.
"We have found out that he was using Wi-Fi from local businesses or restaurants to do that communication, so we couldn't track him."
Police think Craley may have wanted to be caught.
"We believe that he was limited on resources after three weeks. Contemplating giving himself up," Damon said.
They are glad the three-week manhunt has finally come to a close.
"It's a relief not only to the community but to the victim and her family," Damon said.
Police said there is no evidence anyone helped him while he was on the run. They may make additional charges against Craley, but they are still investigating.
Craley is being held at the York County Prison without bond.