Baton Rouge, Louisiana Baton Rouge, Louisiana An Louisiana prisoner has escaped detention twice within less than an year leading to a nationwide search and an uproar over the prison’s security measures.

The prisoner, identified by the name of 31-year-old William R. Johnson has escaped from prison East Baton Rouge Parish Prison in the early hours of Tuesday morning, nearly a month after being re-captured due to a prior escape 2024. Johnson was in the process of trial over numerous criminal charges that included an assault and armed robbery.

Authorities on High Alert

According to East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Johnson managed to escape through a malfunctioning security gate within a common recreational yard. CCTV footage of Johnson climbing a fence before disappearing in nearby trees before security were able to intervene.

 External Source: NBC News – Louisiana inmate escapes same jail twice

“We are conducting a full investigation into how this happened again,” told the Sheriff Sid Gautreaux. “There will be consequences for any lapses in protocol.”

In the early hours of Thursday, local, state agencies, as well as federal ones coordinated a search with drones and K9 units placed in parishes around.

History of Security Lapses

The latest incident has increased investigation of East Baton Rouge. East Baton Rouge facility, that has been the subject of numerous legal proceedings concerning personnel shortages, structural disrepair and the alleged inattention.

Johnson earlier escaped from prison during the month of July 2024, during the scheduled work details, However, he was found eleven days later in Mississippi. He was placed under more security following the incident, but now it is apparent that the security protocols were insufficiently monitored.

 External Sources: The Advocate – Jail’s escape story raises doubts

Public Advised to Stay Alert

The authorities have advised residents to stay alert. Johnson is believed to be to be a danger and residents are warned not to come within a few feet of Johnson, but dial 911 right away should they see him.