OC Sheriff Hutchens won’t provide updates on the OC Jail escape investigation

NEWS, FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Lt. Mark Stichter, 714.904.7042, MKStichter@ocsd.org; Carrie Braun, 714.552.5795, CBraun@ocsd.org

Update on Jail Escape Investigation

SANTA ANA, Calif. (February 4, 2016) – The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has initiated an internal administrative investigation into the circumstances of the jail escape in January of 2016 involving inmates Bac Duong, Hossein Nayeri, and Jonathan Tieu from the Central Men’s Jail.

“I have been very clear from the onset of the jail escape investigation that I am deeply concerned about the length of time it took to recognize that three maximum security inmates were unaccounted for,” said Sheriff Sandra Hutchens. “I have initiated an internal administrative investigation to determine the facts of what occurred, contributing factors to the escape and inmate count procedures. Until the investigation is complete, I am unable to discuss it further. Please know that we have taken immediate action to ensure that this situation will not happen again. There have been no personnel changes as of this time.”

As with any internal administrative investigation, CA penal code section 832.7 and 832.8 prohibits public disclosure during an investigation into the conduct of peace officers during the performance of their duties.

Sheriff Hutchens respects the public’s concern regarding the circumstances of the escape, but no further interviews reference the specifics of the jail escape will be provided at this time.

It is the priority of Sheriff Hutchens and the men and women of the Orange County Sheriff’s Department to continue to ensure the safety of the citizens of Orange County.

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