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Authorities have launched a multi-county manhunt following the escape of a “career criminal” from the Crockett County Jail early Wednesday morning.

The Crockett County Sheriff’s Office is actively seeking Gerald Pete Samples, 59, who fled custody on March 25. Samples, a white male standing 6 feet 2 inches tall and weighing approximately 207 pounds, was last seen wearing a brown shirt and brown pants.

While the escape occurred in Crockett County, investigators stated that the search is currently concentrated in neighboring Gibson County. Samples has been in custody since August 9, 2025, on a Circuit Court violation.

Authorities emphasized that Samples is considered a high-priority target due to his extensive criminal history, which includes a previous escape from custody in 2020.

The Sheriff’s Office is conducting a full review of the circumstances that allowed Samples to flee, including the possibility that he received assistance from accomplices. However, officials noted that their immediate focus remains on apprehension.

“Catching Samples remains the Sheriff’s Office top priority,” a department spokesperson said in a statement, thanking the public for their continued vigilance.

Citizens are warned not to approach Samples if spotted. Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts or recent movements is urged to call 911 immediately.