Longtime Etan Patz suspect released, then held

PHILADELPHIA — Authorities say a man long considered the prime suspect in the disappearance of a New York City boy more than three decades ago was released from prison then immediately taken into custody on a Megan’s Law violation.

Pennsylvania State Police say 69-year-old convicted pedophile Jose Ramos was released from a state prison early Wednesday then immediately arrested for failing to provide authorities accurate information as required of sex offenders.

Ramos had long been a suspect in the disappearance 1979 disappearance of 6-year-old Etan Patz, who vanished after leaving his Manhattan home for a bus stop two blocks away.

A new suspect was charged this year with Etan’s murder after confessing. The man’s lawyer says his client is mentally ill.

Police did not immediately specify what information Ramos failed to provide.