Law enforcement agencies are currently on a manhunt for seven of the ten inmates who escaped from a New Orleans jail by breaking through a hole behind a toilet and climbing a wall.
An image obtained by The Associated Press shows the opening through which the inmates fled.
Above the hole, messages like “To Easy LoL” with an arrow pointing to the gap were found.
The escape on Friday has raised concerns and criticism due to the delayed alert and response by officials.
Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Casey McGee has not yet responded to inquiries regarding the incident.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill expressed disappointment in the situation, calling it inexcusable.
Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams, who prosecuted one of the escapees, expressed anger and disbelief at the escape.
Statements from Jail Officials
Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson attributed the escape to “defective locks” and possible assistance from within her department.
She emphasized the need for funding to address jail infrastructure concerns, including the faulty locks.
Surveillance footage showed the inmates using blankets to protect themselves as they scaled a fence and ran into a nearby neighborhood.
Delayed Discovery of Escape
The inmates escaped around 12:30 a.m., but authorities only became aware of it during a morning headcount more than seven hours later.
There was a delay in notifying the New Orleans police about the escape, causing concern over the safety of the community.
Three sheriff’s employees have been suspended pending an investigation into the escape, with questions raised about potential internal involvement.
Details of the Escapees
Most of the escapees are in their twenties, with some facing serious charges including armed robbery and second-degree murder.
Authorities captured three of the escapees, but the search continues for the remaining individuals.
The escapees, once caught, will face additional charges related to the jailbreak.
Past Issues at the Jail
Despite being a new facility, the Orleans Justice Center has faced security and maintenance challenges, including concerns over staffing and infrastructure.
Officials have acknowledged the need for upgrades and maintenance to address issues like broken doors and locks.
The sheriff’s office was in the process of relocating high-security inmates to more secure facilities before the escape occurred.
Incumbent Sheriff Susan Hutson, facing reelection, has come under scrutiny for the escape, with demands for accountability and transparency.
