Repeat Escape of Teen Murder Suspects Raises Alarms at East Baton Rouge Juvenile Detention Center

Teenagers David Atkins and Willie Jackson, accused of murder, evaded custody for the second time in less than two weeks from the East Baton Rouge Juvenile Detention Center. (Photo: lawofficer)

Escaped Teen Murder Suspects Prompt Intense Manhunt Amid Heightened Concerns

According to source, two teenage individuals, David Atkins and Willie Jackson, accused of murder, managed to escape for the second time in less than two weeks from the East Baton Rouge Juvenile Detention Center in Louisiana over the weekend. The exact method of their escape remains unclear, prompting an investigation by officials into the circumstances surrounding these accused of murder.

Both 17-year-olds are considered armed and dangerous, having previously escaped on November 13. Atkins, accused of murder had fled the detention center with another detainee after a fight, resulting in their capture after a 24-hour search.Law enforcement agencies, including the Baton Rouge Police Department and the U.S. Marshals Service, have launched a search for Atkins and Jackson, accused of murder.

The teens face first-degree murder charges making their escape a matter of heightened concern for those accused of murder. Authorities caution the public against approaching the individuals and urge anyone with information to contact the Capital Region Crime Stoppers or call 911.

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Security Concerns at East Baton Rouge Juvenile Facility Persist Despite Allocated Funds for Upgrades

The East Baton Rouge juvenile facility, where the escapes occurred, has faced criticism due to repeated incidents of escapes and violence involving those accused of murder. Hillar Moore, the East Baton Rouge District Attorney, expressed concern over the unacceptable situation, emphasizing the need for a comprehensive solution to prevent future escapes by those accused of murder.

In 2021, five prisoners, accused of murder, escaped after attacking a staffer, and in February 2022, a fight involving eight teens, some accused of murder, resulted in injuries. Despite allocating $2 million for security upgrades, the facility’s security enhancements were still in the planning and design phase after the escape earlier in November by those accused of murder.

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