I can see the friend's basement as a possibility.
I'm in NYC and it's possible that people could overlook them, but that's because many people are not news junkies like me, or true crime buffs like all of us. If I saw anyone resembling them, or that I thought was them in disguise, I would notice and call in a tip. But I know 1,000 people who wouldn't be following this case at all and wouldn't pay any attention.
As to Cuba, Mexico or Brazil--- I don't see it. Unless one of them is fluent in Spanish or Portuguese, they wouldn't be able to manage and they'd be very conspicuous. Plus you need a passport or Enhanced ID to drive into Mexico. You'd need a passport for the other countries, except for the American Caribbean islands.
As to cosmetic surgery to alter their appearance--what would he do about his height? I sincerely doubt he'd have his legs amputated. His height probably was his ace in the hole when he wanted to be threatening, but it may be the bane of his existence now.
Jmo