Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has launched a sharp critique of progressive criminal justice reforms following a mass escape from the Orleans Justice Center, where ten inmates broke out, seven of whom remain at large.
Landry pointed to local policies that he claims favor leniency over public safety, saying the city effectively “handed the jail keys” to individuals committed to keeping criminals out of jail. The jailbreak has triggered a manhunt across the state and renewed scrutiny of the jail’s infrastructure and oversight.
Preliminary reports indicate that inmates may have taken advantage of malfunctioning locks and weak security procedures to make their escape. In response, the governor signed an executive order mandating a full audit of the jail, led by the state’s Department of Corrections.
Landry also ordered the state inspector general to coordinate with the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office to review every inmate currently held or awaiting trial. He warned that anyone who assisted or enabled the escape—intentionally or through negligence—would be held accountable under the law.
The incident has reignited debate over the direction of Louisiana’s criminal justice system, with growing calls for stronger enforcement and greater accountability within local correctional facilities.