Fact Check: "Inmates escaped through a hole after removing a toilet from their cell."
What We Know
On May 16, 2025, ten inmates escaped from the Orleans Parish Justice Center in New Orleans by creating a hole in the wall behind a toilet. According to reports, the inmates removed a metal toilet and sink from the wall, allowing them to squeeze through the opening they created (New York Times, AP News). Surveillance footage captured the escapees leaving the facility and scaling a wall, with some changing out of their orange jail uniforms into civilian clothes (New York Times).
Sheriff Susan Hutson indicated that the escape might have been aided by individuals within the jail staff, as a civilian employee monitoring the security systems left their post to get food just before the escape occurred (New York Times). The escape was not discovered until a routine headcount at 8:30 a.m., several hours after the inmates had fled (AP News).
Analysis
The claim that inmates escaped through a hole after removing a toilet from their cell is supported by multiple credible sources. The New York Times and AP News both confirm that the inmates created a hole in the wall behind the toilet, which was large enough for them to pass through (New York Times, AP News). The details provided in these reports are consistent, including the description of the escape route and the circumstances surrounding the incident.
The reliability of these sources is high; both are well-established news organizations known for their journalistic integrity. The New York Times has a long history of reporting on significant events, while AP News is recognized for its factual reporting and widespread distribution of news. The information presented in these articles aligns with official statements from the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office, further validating the claims made.
However, it is worth noting that the situation surrounding the escape has led to criticism of the jail's security protocols and management. Sheriff Hutson has acknowledged lapses in security that allowed the escape to occur, indicating systemic issues within the facility (New York Times). This context adds depth to the narrative but does not detract from the veracity of the claim regarding the method of escape.
Conclusion
Verdict: True
The claim that inmates escaped through a hole after removing a toilet from their cell is substantiated by credible news reports and official statements. The escape involved the inmates creating a hole in the wall behind a toilet, which is a critical detail corroborated by multiple reliable sources.
