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| Kalkaska inmate found after escaping |
| By record-eagle.com |
| Published: 01/05/2010 |
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KALKASKA -- A local sheriff will reassess his jail's security system after an inmate's successful, but short-lived escape. Donnie Ray Keeton, 51, of Rapid City, escaped from the Kalkaska County Jail Sunday night through a fire exit door. Deputies arrested the minimum security inmate a half-hour later, but Sheriff David Israel said Keeton's criminal record should have raised concerns and awareness among jailers. Keeton's record includes a 1999 escape from the Grand Traverse County Jail. "That should have been a red flag," Israel said. "There were a lot of things working against us. We got a relatively new jail staff." Israel said an overcrowded jail also played a role in Keeton's placement in a minimum security cell block. "I probably need to look at some upgrades," he said. "Maybe a camera to monitor the door at all times." About four minimum security inmates "were hanging out" around 8:30 p.m. Sunday when Keeton pressed a panic button on the fire exit door, Israel said. Keeton ran four blocks to Dresden Street where he allegedly entered a "house he was familiar with." Israel said the suspect probably stopped by the house to pick up clothing and left. Neighbors reported suspicious activity when they saw Keeton outside. Deputies followed Keeton's footprints in the snow and arrested him. Keeton was placed in a maximum security cell block as he awaits arraignment on escape charges. He was about two weeks into a 93-day sentence for a probation violation, Israel said. Kalkaska County Prosecutor Brian Donnelly said charges have yet to be filed. Escape from lawful confinement is a felony charge, punishable by up to two years in prison. Three inmates have escaped from the Kalkaska County Jail since the fire exit door was installed in 1987, Israel said. "Usually, it's not an issue because people do their time and get out," he said. "It doesn't happen with any regularity." The Michigan Department of Corrections conducts statewide jail inspections on a regular basis, said department spokesman John Cordell. During routine inspections, recommendations often are made in regard to safety concerns, Cordell said. The Kalkaska County Jail "was in total compliance" during routine inspections with the Department of Corrections in 2005, 2006 and 2008, Cordell said. Read More. |
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