13, but was apprehended after a 24-hour search. The two teenagers, identified as David Atkins and Willie Jackson, escaped from the East Baton Rouge Juvenile Detention Center late on Saturday night. The exact details of their escape have not been disclosed, and authorities are currently investigating the incident.

Atkins, who was being held on a first-degree murder charge by the Baton Rouge police, had previously escaped from the same detention center on November 13. Along with another detainee, he fled as guards were restoring order following a fight that had broken out among the prisoners. After an extensive search, both escapees were eventually apprehended.

The recent escape has heightened concerns about the security and safety measures at the East Baton Rouge juvenile facility. The center has faced criticism in the past due to multiple escapes and violent incidents. In 2021, five prisoners managed to escape after overpowering a staff member and stealing her keys. They then locked her inside a cell without access to a radio. Some of the escapees even attacked staff members using makeshift knives. This led to an allocation of $2 million for security upgrades in the facility, although these upgrades are still in the planning and design phase.

The repeated escapes and violent episodes have raised serious questions about the effectiveness of the facility's security protocols. Hillar Moore, the East Baton Rouge District Attorney, expressed his frustration, stating that if immediate action is not taken, more escapes are inevitable. The fact that these escapees are juveniles accused of first-degree murder has further heightened concerns about public safety.

Authorities are urging the public to exercise caution, as both Atkins and Jackson are considered armed and dangerous. They have warned against approaching the suspects and instead advised anyone with information about their whereabouts to contact the Capital Region Crime Stoppers at 225-344-7867 or call 911. The Baton Rouge Police Department has also issued a statement urging the public to remain vigilant and report any sightings of the escapees. Cpl. Saundra Watts emphasized the need for immediate reporting, as the suspects may have altered their appearances.

As the search for the escaped teenagers continues, the Baton Rouge Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service have joined forces to locate and apprehend them. With the seriousness of their charges and their previous successful escape, the authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to ensure the safety of the community.