Authorities are searching for a prisoner who led authoritiesfrom several counties on a 31-hour manhunt in August after his lateThursday escape from Copiah County jail.

Copiah County Sheriff Harold Jones said Sydney Benner, 30, ofPanama City, Fla., escaped from the exercise yard at the jailyesterday. Authorities believe Benner’s escape over a yard fencewas planned.

“He’s still at large, and we’re still trying to find him,” saidJones. “We know that he cut himself when he left, thought we don’tknow how bad.”

Benner’s initial traffic stop and flight after he attempted torun down Mississippi Highway Patrol Trooper Luke Harrington withhis vehicle spurred a manhunt in the thick woods at theMartinsville exit on I-55 which attracted 11 law enforcementagencies from all over the southern part of the state.

He faces 12 felony and misdemeanor charges in connection withthat manhunt, and was also wanted in Florida on several charges atthe time of the incident.

For the complete story and more local news, become a subscriberto The DAILY LEADER. Contact The DAILY LEADER at 601-833-6961 tosubscribe today!