Eric Frein: Alleged Cop-Killer Has Fewer Troopers Searching For Him

Eric Frein is still on the run despite over a month’s worth of searching by trained Pennsylvania State Troopers and other agencies.

According to WNEP, there are fewer troopers on the ground in the woods of the Poconos searching for Frein than at the start of the intense manhunt.

As many as 300 state troopers were actively searching for Eric Frein after he mortally wounded one officer and injured another in a surprise ambush last month. Now there are about 200 troopers searching for the 31-year-old during different shifts, according to a state police spokesperson.

With the help of the ATF, FBI, and other agencies there were as many as 1,000 people searching for Eric Frein, according to New York Mag. It is unknown just how many people in total are searching for Eric; the number remains a fact which agencies want to keep quiet for tactical purposes.

George Belvins, a state police lieutenant colonel, believes Eric Frein is toying with those conducting the manhunt to find him. Searchers think they have spotted Frein several times, but he was always too far away to reach.

“It’s almost like this is a game to him.”

Meanwhile, friends of Eric think his enthusiasm for Serbian army battles and maneuvers went way too far.

One friend commented the whole situation was more elaborate than just a game.

“This is more reminiscent of the first Rambo movie.”

Police claim the the manhunt is still intense and there are many people searching for Frein, but instead of focusing on one spot they are spreading out over a larger area.

People across the country have expressed disbelief that Frein has not been caught yet, but residents in the area know just how thick the surrounding woods are and are not that surprised.

One resident, Helen Blackmore, was quick to point out how easy it is to hide in the forest.

“I mean, I realize how hard it is for people to be found up here. The woods are very dense. My own kids could hide out there for a month and they wouldn’t find them.”

However unsettling it is to know that a wanted fugitive is out there somewhere at large, residents in the area feel comforted to still see a large police presence in the area.

Alpine Mountain ski resort owner Kevin Fabiano told WNEP, “”Usually in the mornings you see a parking lot filled of state troopers and then we have some at the top of the mountain as well. They make me feel safe, at least.”

Police are hopeful Eric Frein will be easier to track as the weather turns into colder months, as he will likely become more desperate for places to shelter and to find food.

[Image via Butch Comegys/AP]