UPDATE: Lawyer: Monroe County residents unlawfully displaced during Eric Frein manhunt
A law firm is soliciting residents in Pike and Monroe counties who have been affected by police activity related to the manhunt for Eric Frein, the suspect in the Sept. 12 Pennsylvania State Police ambush that left one trooper dead and wounded another.
Joshua Prince, of the Bechtelsville, Pa.-based Prince Law Offices, posted a message on the firm's website Monday night encouraging residents to contact the firm if they believe their rights have been violated by police during the search for Frein, who is sought in the shooting outside the state police Blooming Grove barracks in Pike County.
"If you are a resident of Pike or Monroe County and had your rights violated by the (Pennsylvania State Police), either by unlawfully evicting you from your home or searching your vehicle without a warrant, please contact us to discuss your legal options," the message says.
Prince, in his message, cites media reports of police checking vehicles without warrants or probable cause and not allowing residents to return to their homes during periods of the search.
Officials opened temporary shelters for displaced residents last week in Barrett Township, Monroe County, and Price Township, Pike County, as police activity intensified during the search for Frein.
Other measures have also been taken to protect residents during the manhunt. There have been road closures, schools have shuttered and sporting events have been postponed as police try to track down Frein, a survivalist whom authorities considered armed and extremely dangerous.
A Pennsylvania State Police spokesman on Tuesday afternoon said in an email that state police are aware of the firm's post.
"During our search operations in the area, we have been diligent in respecting the rights of the public while working hard to keep both residents and law enforcement safe," Trooper Adam Reed said.
Efforts to reach Prince on Tuesday afternoon were unsuccessful. Messages left at the firm were not immediately returned.
Frein, who has been placed on the FBI's 10 most wanted list, remained on the lam Tuesday afternoon, 11 days after the ambush.