The Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office is actively searching for a man who escaped custody earlier today.

The suspect —  Malik D. Williams, 23, Lake Charles — fled on foot during an investigation at a residence on Gulf Highway, spokesperson Kayla Vincent said.

“Williams was being detained in the back of a unit when the incident occurred,” she said. “The deputy opened the door to check on Williams, who was able to slip out of his handcuffs without the deputies knowledge, at which time he fled the scene.”

Williams was being arrested on charges of domestic abuse when he escaped, Vincent said. He was last seen wearing gray Nike shorts, no shirt, and black and white Nike shoes.

Deputies set up a perimeter and conducted a search of the area but have been unable to locate Williams.

Judge David Ritchie signed a warrant in the amount of $375,000 for his arrest, charging him with domestic abuse battery; and simple escape.

CPSO is continuing the search but anyone who may know the whereabouts of Williams is asked to call 491-3605; submit an anonymous tip by using the CloseWatch Calcasieu app; or by calling Crime Stoppers at 439-2222. Anyone found to be assisting or harboring him will be charged accordingly.