Prison breaks are the subject of T.V. shows and movies. Oftentimes, on television, creative prisoners are able to escape the thick walls of their prison and start a new life after they have broken free. Prison break attempts are common in the United States, but they are not often successful. Most of the time, these attempts do end in severe penalties. Whether you tried to wander out of jail, or made an elaborate attempt to get out of prison, you may be severely penalized if you are caught.
Normally, after a prison break, an effort is made on the part of the authorities to recapture the offender and return him or her to a detainer. Escaping from prison is a criminal offense, and is likely to result in added time to the inmate's sentence. Sometimes, the inmate is also placed under increased security. Aggravating factors include whether or not violence was used in the prison break.
Prisons are constructed so that it is very, very difficult for individuals to escape. Many prisons have motion sensors, television monitoring, barred windows, high, un-scalable walls, and barbed wire or razor wire to prevent escapes. Some prisons also use electric fencing for this purpose. Those who attempt to escape from prison may use a variety of different methods. Some prisoners may try using physical force to move guards out of the way and push past through an open door. Other prisoners may escape when they are permitted to leave the prison grounds temporarily on honor that they will return. If the prisoner does not return, this can be considered an escape.
In the past, prisoners have used deception to convince guards that they are authorized to depart prison grounds for a legitimate reason. Sometimes, prisoners have been able to disguise themselves as workers or civilians who can exit prison grounds without hassle, and then sneak out of the prison. In some cases, prisoners have been able to pay off corrupt prison staff to aid them in their escape, or enlist help from an accomplice outside of the prison walls.
Prison escapes are virtually impossible, but those who attempt them can expect severe punishment. An individual will certainly be sent back to prison for an extensive amount of time, and may be placed under extra security or denied prison privileges. The severity of a punishment for an attempted prison break may depend on several factors. For example, if the prisoner harmed guards, inmates, or civilians, or damaged property, then the penalties will be heavier. Also, if a prisoner committed robbery or assault in the midst of the prison break, or committed murder during the escape, then this can be considered worthy of the death penalty in some states.
Authorities punish prison break offenders harshly to make an example of them and discourage other inmates from attempting similar efforts. Authorities hope to instil the idea that it is better to serve out a single term peacefully than be forced to serve a longer time in jail due to the attempt to escape. Prisoners who have the possibility of parole may never receive that privilege if they have been caught trying to escape.
Those who attempt to help a person escape from prison, whether inside the prison as an inmate or outside as an accomplice, can also be seriously penalized for acting as an accessory in the crime. Courts can charge an aid to escape as a misdemeanor or felony which can result in hail time or other penalties as determined by the jurisdiction. If you want more information about prison breaks, or if you need defense after being accused of attempting to escape, contact a skilled attorney at a local criminal defense law firm! Use this directory to find a representative near you!
