SHREVEPORT, La. – After an inmate escaped while being taken to LSU Health Shreveport, the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office unveiled a series of changes to its inmate transportation procedures. Sheriff Henry Whitehorn told reporters that an internal investigation uncovered several policy gaps that allowed the escape to occur.
Investigation findings
Jackson, classified as a level 2 inmate, was supposed to be moved by a single deputy under existing rules. Although deputies were aware of his history of escape attempts, the written policy at the time did not require additional security based on that history. Whitehorn said the investigation also found that, while Jackson was placed in handcuffs and leg restraints, required searches were not performed and the restraints were not verified or properly secured at critical points during the transport.
New escape‑risk designation
Under the revised policy, any inmate with a prior escape or attempted escape will receive an “escape‑risk” designation. That designation cannot be lowered without documented approval. Inmates facing homicide or other violent charges will now require two deputies for any off‑site transport. If two deputies are unavailable, the transport will be delayed unless a medical professional determines that waiting would create a genuine emergency.
Enhanced search and restraint checks
The updated rules also mandate that deputies search inmates before leaving the jail and after any period when the inmate is out of sight. Restraints must be checked and documented at the start of a trip, after the inmate is out of sight, after any medical procedure, and before the return trip. Whitehorn said transportation deputies and supervisors will receive training on the new procedures this week.
Ongoing manhunt
The search for Jackson continues. Federal, state and local agencies have joined the effort, and the sheriff warned that Jackson should be considered armed and dangerous. While the sheriff declined to discuss disciplinary action against deputies or to provide details that could compromise the investigation, he confirmed that Jackson was last seen in Haughton on Tuesday.
Community impact
Local residents expressed concern about the safety of transporting inmates through the community. “We need to be sure our law‑enforcement agencies are following the highest standards,” said Shreveport resident Maria Lopez, who lives near the hospital. The new policies aim to restore confidence by ensuring that any inmate with a history of escape attempts receives the appropriate level of security.
By tightening transport protocols, the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office hopes to prevent future incidents and protect both the public and its officers. The department plans to review the effectiveness of the new rules after a 90‑day trial period.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
