OPELOUSAS, La. (NEWS 15) — The Opelousas Police Department is searching for an inmate who escaped custody while being transported back to jail.

Authorities reported Michael Vavasseur, 34, of Opelousas, escaped on Wednesday, April 15, around 3:30 p.m. while being moved from STOA Behavioral Health to the St. Landry Parish Jail.

They said he partially freed himself from restraints and ran from the vehicle near the intersection of U.S. 190 and Wallior Street.

They explained he was last seen near Cenla Street and High Street wearing a gray t-shirt and gray shorts.

Police warn Vavasseur is considered dangerous due to prior violent offenses.

The Opelousas Police Department is urging anyone who sees him not to approach. Anyone with information on his whereabouts should immediately contact the Opelousas Police Department at (337) 948-2500 or call 911.

Anonymous tips can also be submitted to St. Landry Crime Stoppers at (337) 948-8477.

A.I. assisted with the formatting of this story. CLICK HERE to see how News 15 uses A.I.

Comments are closed.