Three corrections officers in the Northern Territory have been placed on administrative leave with pay following an alleged escape by a prisoner on Sunday. The Department of Corrections in the NT has initiated an external investigation into the matter.
The individual involved, Isaac Thompson, 26, has been charged with escaping from lawful custody and is scheduled to appear in court next week. The alleged escape occurred on Sunday evening when Thompson reportedly evaded corrections staff while being transferred from an ambulance to the emergency department of the Royal Darwin Hospital, leading to a prolonged manhunt that lasted over 48 hours.
Authorities have identified Thompson as a known associate of the Mongols outlaw motorcycle gang. He was apprehended yesterday and charged with escape from lawful custody. Additionally, a 45-year-old man has also been charged for allegedly aiding Thompson in his escape.
Acting Deputy Commissioner for Corrections, Kate Chambers, confirmed that the three officers involved were placed on paid administrative leave due to the incident. She emphasized that this action does not imply wrongdoing on their part but is necessary for a comprehensive investigation focused on community safety and the well-being of staff.
Chambers noted that an initial review had already been conducted, prompting immediate actions to ensure safety. However, a more thorough investigation will be carried out by an independent, non-governmental entity, although the identity of this organization has not been disclosed. This investigation will evaluate existing policies, the conduct of correctional staff, and the broader implications of the escape.
The review is expected to be completed within two weeks. A spokesperson for the Northern Territory government expressed that any escape by a prisoner is unacceptable and affirmed their support for the Commissioner and the Department of Corrections in taking swift action, including the suspension of officers while independent inquiries are conducted. They also committed to acting on the findings to enhance the safety and security of the correctional system.
In a recent statement, law enforcement provided additional details regarding Thompson’s charges, which now include escape from lawful custody, assaulting a worker, and theft. Following his escape on Sunday night, he was spotted later that evening in the Darwin suburb of Lyons, where he attempted to solicit rides from the public.
After evading capture for three days, police received a tip that led them to a residence in Darwin River. At around 12:30 PM yesterday, members of the Fugitive Taskforce and Dog Operations Unit arrested Thompson without incident. Detective Sergeant Jon Spencer remarked that Thompson’s capture was the result of diligent police efforts and crucial information from the public, warning that those who escape lawful custody should expect a vigorous law enforcement response.
Authorities are also investigating potential links between this and other recent escape incidents, including whether assistance was provided to the escapees during their evasion. Thompson appeared in the Darwin Local Court today and has been remanded in custody until his next hearing on July 15.
