By Law enforcement officers in southwestern Mississippi have launched an extensive search for two inmates who escaped from the Claiborne County Detention Center early Friday morning. Tyrekennel Collins, 24, and Dezarrious Johnson, 18, both awaiting trial on separate murder charges, broke out of the facility located in Port Gibson, approximately 60 miles southwest of Jackson.
The Claiborne County Sheriff’s Department reported that the escape occurred around 2:20 a.m. Sheriff Edward Goods told WAPT-TV that camera footage captured Collins and Johnson escaping through the ceiling and leaving behind an outside wall. The sheriff’s department noted that Johnson sustained an injury to one of his legs during the escape and was seen walking with a limp.
The Mississippi Bureau of Investigation has classified Collins and Johnson as armed and dangerous, emphasizing the potential threat they pose to public safety. This classification has heightened the urgency of the ongoing manhunt.
Collins faces murder charges in Copiah County, approximately 40 miles west of Claiborne County, for the alleged killing of his cousin in October. As of Friday, court records did not show an indictment for Collins, indicating that the case may still be in its preliminary stages.
Johnson’s legal situation is more advanced. He has been indicted on charges of murder and aggravated assault in Jefferson County, just south of Claiborne County. The indictment stems from an October 2022 incident where Johnson is accused of killing one person and injuring two others. His trial was scheduled to begin on October 15, adding a time-sensitive element to his recapture.
The escape of these two suspects has raised concerns about security measures at the Claiborne County Detention Center and the potential risks to surrounding communities. Local and state law enforcement agencies are coordinating their efforts to locate and apprehend Collins and Johnson as quickly as possible.
Authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and to report any sightings or information related to the escapees immediately. The incident serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by correctional facilities in maintaining security, particularly when housing individuals accused of violent crimes.
As the search continues, questions are likely to arise regarding the circumstances that allowed for the escape and what measures can be implemented to prevent similar incidents in the future. The case highlights the ongoing balance between ensuring public safety and maintaining the rights of individuals awaiting trial.
cbsnews.com
