No Firings in Wake of OC Jail Escape

The Orange County Sheriff’s Department has begun an internal administrative investigation into the circumstances of the escape of three inmates from the Central Men’s Jail, the department announced today.

“I have been very clear from the onset of the jail escape investigation that I am deeply concerned about the length of time it took to recognize that three maximum security inmates were unaccounted for,” Sheriff Sandra Hutchens said.

“I have initiated an internal administrative investigation to determine the facts of what occurred, contributing factors to the escape and inmate count procedures.”

Hutchens said she will be unable to discuss the investigation further until it is completed. No further interviews referencing the specifics of the escape will be provided at this time.

Hossein Nayeri, 37, of Newport Beach, Jonathan Tieu, 20, of Fountain Valley, and Bac Duong, 43, of Santa Ana, escaped from the jail Jan. 22. Duong surrendered Friday in Santa Ana, while Nayeri and Tieu were arrested Saturday morning in San Francisco.

“Please know that we have taken immediate action to ensure that this situation will not happen again,” Hutchens said. “There have been no personnel changes as of this time.”

Related:

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• Escaped California Inmates Fought Over Plan to Murder Hostage Cab Driver: Police
• Watch: Escaped Inmates Return to OC Jail, Ending Massive Manhunt
• Remaining California Jail Escapees Captured in Bay Area
• BREAKING: Southern California Jail Escapees Spotted in San Jose, Police Say
• BREAKING: California Jail Escapee Surrenders; Other 2 Spotted in San Jose
• No Bail for Teacher Charged in Inmates’ Escape
• Saddleback Teacher Accused of Helping Inmates Escape from Jail

City News Service; Photo: Orange County Sheriff’s Department