Law enforcement agencies in California are engaged in an intensive manhunt for 34-year-old Cesar M. Hernandez, a convicted murderer who escaped from custody over a week ago. Hernandez’s audacious getaway occurred on December 2 when he jumped out of a prison transport van at the Kern County Superior Courthouse in Delano. This incident happened around 10:45 a.m. local time as he was being transferred for a scheduled court hearing related to previous offenses committed while incarcerated. Hernandez was already facing serious charges for possession or manufacture of a deadly weapon by a prisoner and possession of a controlled substance in prison, after being transported from Kern Valley State Prison, where he had been held since June 27, 2019.
In light of Hernandez’s escape, California authorities are soliciting public assistance to help locate the fugitive. The California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CDCR) has issued a “Be on the Lookout” (BOLO) alert to various law enforcement agencies in an effort to mobilize resources and inform the public. While the CDCR acknowledges the need to keep certain investigation details sensitive to preserve confidentiality, they are dedicated to capturing Hernandez and ensuring public safety. In terms of physical appearance, Hernandez is described as being 5 feet 5 inches tall, weighing approximately 161 pounds, with brown eyes and black hair. At the time of his escape, he was wearing an orange top and pants, standard attire for inmates during transportation.
Cesar Hernandez was previously convicted of first-degree murder, resulting in a lengthy prison sentence of 25 years to life with the possibility of parole. However, due to it being classified as a second strike offense, this sentence was subsequently doubled to 50 years to life. It was later modified to 80 years to life because of aggravating factors, including his discharge of a firearm during the murder and a prior conviction. His criminal history adds further urgency to the search for him, as he poses a significant risk to public safety given the violent nature of his past crimes.
The specifics surrounding Hernandez’s escape are still under investigation, but preliminary reports indicate that he was placed in both leg and waist restraints before his transportation, which raises questions about how he managed to evade custody. Both correctional officers responsible for his transfer have retained their job positions but are currently assigned to non-transportation roles. The CDCR has stated that nearly all inmates who have escaped from its facilities since 1977 have been recaptured, providing some degree of reassurance during this manhunt, but highlighting the importance of prompt action to locate Hernandez.
Authorities are keen to mobilize community involvement in locating the fugitive. The CDCR has encouraged anyone who may have seen Hernandez or has pertinent information about his location to reach out via specific contacts, including the U.S. Marshals at a dedicated phone number or through the Incident Commander, Lt. Anthony Sotello. Moreover, to incentivize reporting, the U.S. Marshals Service is offering a reward of $5,000 for information that leads to Hernandez’s capture. Importantly, the confidentiality of all tips and information will be maintained, ensuring that concerned citizens can come forward without fear of reprisal.
In conclusion, the ongoing manhunt for Cesar M. Hernandez underscores the complexities and challenges law enforcement face during such incidents. As authorities continue their efforts to apprehend him, the case highlights the broader issues of prison security, inmate transportation protocols, and community partnership in law enforcement. With the cooperation of the public and law enforcement, there is hope for a swift resolution to this case, thereby reinforcing the safety and security of the community in California. As the search progresses, the CDCR remains committed to bringing Hernandez back into custody and addressing the factors that contributed to his escape.