UPDATE:
1:50 p.m.:
The Gadsden County Sheriff's office says they've concluded the perimeter search for Butler, but have not located him. They say they will continue to look for him.
They say the lockdown on the schools has been lifted and that there's no immediate threat to the community.
GCSO says an additional charge has been added to Butler for Escape. He has active warrants for FTA/Aggravated Battery, Possession of a controlled substance, and Escape.
If you see him, you're asked to call 911 immediately or call Big Bend Crime Solvers at (850)-574-8477.
GCSO is also reminding the public that harboring a fugitive or aiding or abetting an escapee is a felony.
1:00 p.m.:
Gadsden County Sheriff's Office is providing more information regarding the suspect who escaped custody.
According to Captain Anglie Holmes, Butler was in court for an appearance but was taken into custody for an unrelated charge.
According to Holmes, he was detained for failure to appear and possession of a controlled substance.
A judge remanded him into custody. The bailiff cuffed him, and while he was being escorted to a vehicle to be transported to the Gadsden County Jail, that's when he snatched away and ran from the bailiff as he was about to be taken into the back seat.
GCSO says he is still handcuffed, last seen wearing black shorts and no shirt.
GCSO says schools will remain on lockdown until it is deemed safe.
At this time, GCSO says Butler is not a threat to the community, but they are warning neighbors to lock their doors.
12:35 p.m.:
Gadsden County Sheriff's Office clarifies that Butler was not in custody, but reported to court on charges. They say the judge remanded him to custody, and upon transport, he ran from the deputy.
12:21 p.m.
The Gadsden County Sheriff's Office has released more information on the escaped convict they are looking for.
They say Cedric Butler was being loaded for transport after court and ran from a Bailiff Deputy. He was last seen in the area of Stewart and Key Street and is currently being tracked by K-9 west towards 7th St.
GCSO says several law enforcement units and K-9 are searching the area, and a perimeter has been set.
Butler was last seen wearing black shorts with no shirt. If you see him, GCSO says to call 911 and DO NOT attempt to apprehend.
They say he's wanted for FTA Aggravated Battery.
PICTURED BELOW:
Original:
Gadsden County School District has announced that the following schools are on lockdown due to a convict escaping from the courthouse.
- George W. Munroe Elementary
- Stewart Street Elementary School
- James A. Shanks Middle School
- Carter-Parramore Academy
- Gadsden Technical College
They're asking parents not to come to the school at this time. They say all students and staff are safe and will provide an update as soon as the lockdown is lifted.
WTXL ABC 27 has a crew on the way to the scene.
This is a developing story.
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