As released by Dauphin County:

HARRISBURG, PA (March 6, 2013)–Dauphin County Prison remains in lockdown after an inmate attempted to dig a hole in his jail cell wall and escape. The facility has been in lockdown as of 12:28 p.m. on March 5, 2013.

The inmate used a metal implement that he removed from a mounted tray in his cell to chip away at the wall. Damages to the cell are currently being assessed.

“Visitation may be restricted up to a week while correctional officers sweep the prison for any other potential hazards,” said Dominick DeRose, prison warden. “We’re working closely with investigators to determine how this incident occurred and what we can do to prevent it from happening in the future.” Dauphin County Criminal Investigation Division and the District Attorney’s Office are investigating the escape attempt. Charges may be filed against the inmate. The inmate’s identification may be released pending the conclusion of the criminal investigation.

During a lockdown, inmates must remain in their cells and visitation is restricted. The lockdown will remain in effect until a thorough search of the prison has been conducted to ensure the safety and security of the inmates, prison employees and visitors.