New Tangipahoa Parish sheriff claims inmate escaped earlier than reported

Disclaimer: All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

TANGIPAHOA PARISH, La. ( WGNO ) — The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office has released new information surrounding the inmate who remains missing following an escape from the Tangipahoa Parish Jail.

On May 27, four inmates escaped the facility through an apparent hole in the perimeter fence while they were in the yard for recreation time.

Deputies said of the four, two of them left on Saturday and two on Sunday.

On May 27, 19-year-old Avery Guidry and 21-year-old Travon Johnson were found hiding inside a dumpster behind a Dollar General on Pumpkin Center Road. 19-year-old Omarion Hookfin was found and recaptured on May 31.

20-year-old Jamarcus Cyprian is still on the run, but Sheriff Gerald Sticker is now reporting that he allegedly escaped on May 16, 10 days prior to the reported date.

An investigation into the fence exhibited wear and tear, making it “vulnerable and easy to maneuver in such a way that a small-statured body could slide through.”

On Wednesday, July 3, TPSO officials released a statement on the incident.

“The investigation into the escape is ongoing, however, what has been learned of that new element is consistent with the long-time, systemic issues identified with the operations at the jail which include staffing shortages, a lack of training of the manpower that is available, a lack of appropriate oversight and failure to follow procedures,” said TPSO officials.

TPSO officials recently increased the reward for anyone able to provide information on Cyprian’s location. They are now offering $10,000 for the information.

Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter .

Latest Posts

• Millions of student loan borrowers to see lower payments in July
• Trump opens up lead on Biden after debate: WSJ poll
• Rapides woman missing after release from medical facility
• Trader Joe’s recalls candles with ‘unexpected’ issue
• Second House Democrat calls for Biden to withdraw from presidential race

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO.