Law enforcement in Southern California are still searching for murder convict Cesar M. Hernandez, who escaped custody over a week ago after jumping out of a prison van at the Kern County Superior Courthouse. Hernandez was facing court hearings for in-prison offenses and had been convicted of first-degree murder, resulting in a sentence of 80 years to life with the possibility of parole. The manhunt is ongoing, with a “Be on the Lookout” alert issued to law enforcement agencies.
Hernandez is described as 5 feet, 5 inches tall, weighing 161 pounds with brown eyes and black hair. He was last seen wearing an orange top and pants. The CDCR is asking the public to report any sightings or information about Hernandez’s whereabouts to the U.S. Marshals, Incident Commander Lt. Anthony Sotello, or to call 911. All information will be kept confidential, and a $5,000 reward is being offered for information leading to Hernandez’s capture.
The details of Hernandez’s escape, including how he managed to evade staff and jump out of the van, are still under investigation. The two correctional officers involved in his transfer are still employed but have been reassigned to non-transportation duties. Law enforcement is fully committed to locating and apprehending Hernandez to ensure public safety and bring him back into custody.
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