'Armed and dangerous' escaped inmate may be looking for new transportation

DALE CO., AL, (WSFA) - The search for an escaped inmate continues in the Wiregrass. Jeffery Scott was spotted in Coffee County a few weeks ago. Now, authorities say he was seen in Dale County Wednesday.

More than a day has passed since the latest sighting. Authorities say the manhunt began around 1 p.m. Wednesday after a deputy spotted him on a four wheeler traveling on Highway 27 near the Marley Mill Community. He crashed and fled the scene on foot.

Scott escaped from Loxley Work Release Center outside Mobile on June 23. Coffee County Sheriff's deputies and state police began a manhunt for him in the New Hope Community on July 12 after a traffic stop. State police arrested one person after a short chase but Scott was able to flee into a wooded area.

K-9 tracking teams and ALEA air support have assisted with the search.

Dale County Chief Deputy Mason Bynum says deputies searched Wednesday night until 11:00, but had to call off the search at that point.

"There was a lot of lightning in the area," Bynum said, "so our aircraft had to leave, and the dog teams lost track a few different times. So based on that, and they encountered a lot of snakes they were having to get around, so based on that we just pulled out last night."

Citizens are advised to remain alert. Investigators believe he will be looking for new transportation. If you spot the inmate, or see anything suspicious, contact police immediately.

Scott should be considered armed and dangerous.

Patrols have been increased in the area until new information develops. The Coffee County Sheriff's Office, state police, U.S. Marshals and Ozark Police are also assisting in the manhunt.

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