Louisiana Inmate Escapes Custody, Sparks Manhunt

Leon Ruffin, facing life for second-degree murder, escaped by pepper-spraying a deputy and stealing a cruiser.

A manhunt is underway for Leon Ruffin, a Louisiana inmate who escaped custody by pepper-spraying a deputy and stealing a police cruiser.
Ruffin, facing life in prison for second-degree murder among other charges, was being transported back to jail from a hospital visit when he escaped.
Authorities consider Ruffin armed and dangerous, urging the public to report any information on his whereabouts.
The escape occurred after Ruffin was treated for a possible seizure at a hospital, with officials suspecting he may have faked his injuries.
State police and the FBI are assisting in the search for Ruffin, whose escape has prompted a significant law enforcement response.