LOUISIANA — Two inmates are at large after escaping from the St. Landry Parish Jail early Wednesday morning, according to Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz.
Guidroz said the inmates, both 24 years old, were identified as Keith Eli and Jonathan Jevon Joseph. The pair reportedly chipped away at deteriorating mortar on a “degrading” jail wall, eventually removing concrete blocks and creating an opening large enough to escape.
“The inmates used sheets and other items to scale the outer wall, drop onto the first-floor roof and lower themselves to the ground,” Guidroz said.
Joseph had been in custody on multiple charges, including principal to first-degree rape, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm with a controlled dangerous substance, and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Eli was being held on an attempted second-degree murder charge.
Authorities urge the public not to approach either escapee. Anyone who spots them should call 911. Information can also be reported to the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office at 337-948-6516.
