Escambia County, Alabama, authorities are searching for two work-release inmates who escaped from the barracks at the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office Friday, just as new Sheriff Heath Jackson was preparing to take the oath of office in an afternoon ceremony.

Christopher Ladale Pugh, 27, of McGougin Road, Brewton, and Christopher Blake Moye, 27, of Moye Drive, Brewton, escaped Friday.

Sheriff Grover Smith said the pair claimed they were too sick to work Friday morning.

Both were in the county jail on violation of parole, receiving stolen property first and burglary third charges.

These subjects are wanted. If anyone comes in contact with either of the subjects, please call the Escambia Co. Sheriff’s Office at (251) 809-0741.