Authorities in Hamilton Township and other surrounding areas are still searching for 38 year-old Shane Hopkins, who managed to escaped custody during transport near the area of Atlantic County jail on Tuesday night.

Officers were dispatched to several areas in Atlantic county where a perimeter was set up, including old egg harbor road, route 40, and route 322 among others.

The extensive pursuit included foot patrols, K-9 units and a helicopter search, but as of Wednesday afternoon, there was still no sign of Hopkins.

Police have notified residents of Hopkins' escape and have given out a description and have urged residents to use caution.

It is still unknown how the prisoner managed to escape.

Hopkins was serving time for burglary and eluding police, and is wanted by five out-of-state agencies.

Although he was arrested for non-violent crimes, it's been said that Hopkins does have violent tendencies, which is why students at Atlantic Cape Community College were sent text messages alerting
them to the situation, urging them to use caution in the area.

Hopkins is approximately 5'4", and weighs about 145 pounds with brown hair and blue eyes.

Residents are asked to notify the Hamilton Township Police Department at (609)-625-2700, if they see anyone fitting that description.