A prison officer is wanted in the United States on suspicion of helping a prisoner escape
2 min read
U.S. officials have issued a warrant for the arrest of a prison guard who made the “most dangerous” prisoner escape, police said Monday, although it is not known if he acted under duress.
Casey White, a six-foot-tall, 118-pound prisoner, escaped Friday from the Lauderdale County Jail in Florence, in the southern U.S. state of Alabama.
Casey White, who was sentenced to 75 years in prison for a long list of crimes, faces murder charges after pleading guilty to killing a 58-year-old woman in 2015.
The 38-year-old convict was released from prison at 9:41 a.m. under the supervision of prison service employee Vicky White, who had the same surname but was unrelated to him. The agent should have taken him to court for a psychological assessment and then he would have taken him to a doctor’s appointment.
By 3:30 p.m., authorities realized the two had not returned. The vehicle was empty in the parking lot of a shopping mall.
“We know she was involved in the escape,” Lauderdale County Sheriff Rick Singleton told a news conference. “Whether she volunteered or was coerced or threatened in any way […]I’m not sure, “he added.
The 56-year-old agent went out alone with Casey White, violating the rules that officers have to take prisoners in pairs, Rick Singleton said. No psychological assessment of the prisoner was planned in court that day.
In addition, investigators are interested in other elements: the agent was about to retire and Friday was the last day of his job. According to the sheriff, he sold his house “about a month ago”.
If she escapes voluntarily, “she’s not Vicky White as we know her,” said Rick Singleton, confirming that police are considering the possibility of a romantic relationship between the two. For now, she is being held in custody for “allowing or facilitating an escape”.
The federal agency, the United States Marshall Service (USMS), which specializes in searching for fugitives, rewards Casey White with up to $ 10,000 for any information that may lead to her capture.
Speaking to the public during the press conference, Marty Keeley of USMS warned: “Do not attempt to approach any of these individuals, as they are considered dangerous.”
Before fleeing, Casey White said the sheriff had “nothing to lose”. In Alabama, a convicted felon can be sentenced to death if convicted of murder.
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