Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson has suspended her campaign for reelection, WWL-TV reports.
The announcement comes days after ten inmates at the jail her office runs and escaped into the night.
The suspension, Hutson says, is temporary while she focuses on the reforms needed at the jail.
"I take full accountability for the breach that occurred under my leadership. I am grateful to the community, our law enforcement partners, and city and state leaders for helping us to secure the Orleans Justice Center and capture the remaining escapees," the sheriff said in her statement. "There is a long road ahead of me to be fully satisfied that the OJC and my deputies have the proper resources to perform their duties to the fullest extent the people of New Orleans deserve."
The sheriff's full statement follows:
Following last week’s jailbreak and Tuesday’s hearing with the New Orleans City Council, Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson has announced that she is temporarily suspending her re-election campaign, citing a commitment to security, accountability, and public safety.
“As I said today, I take full accountability for the breach that occurred under my leadership. I am grateful to the community, our law enforcement partners, and city and state leaders for helping us to secure the Orleans Justice Center and capture the remaining escapees,” said Sheriff Susan Hutson. “We've taken immediate action, including suspensions, an arrest, and full cooperation with the Attorney General's investigation.”
“Still, there is a long road ahead of me to be fully satisfied that the OJC and my deputies have the proper resources to perform their duties to the fullest extent the people of New Orleans deserve. As such, I am temporarily suspending my re-election campaign. I cannot spend a moment putting politics over your needs,” Hutson continued. “Now is the time to focus on security, accountability, and public safety. I look forward to continuing to collaborate with other agencies and community organizations to hear your valuable input and make necessary changes.”
Sheriff Hutson is committed to restoring public trust in the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office.
