The Legality and Consequences of Escaping from Prison

Escaping from prison, regardless of whether you committed the crime you were jailed for, is illegal and can lead to severe consequences. This article explores the legal framework surrounding prison escapes and the implications for both the individual and the justice system.

Introduction

Every year, multiple instances of prison escapes are reported. One such example occurred in San Antonio, Texas, several years ago, where a man who was initially charged with double murder successfully avoided a conviction, only to receive an additional 99 years for escaping from jail.

Legal Framework

When you are convicted of a crime and sentenced to prison, you are required to serve your time as determined by the court. Even if you claim your innocence, the law does not differentiate between guilt and innocence in the context of escape. The focus is on the legal obligation to serve the sentence, and the subsequent actions of escape.

Legal Consequences of Escaping

Escaping from prison is considered an additional crime, with serious legal ramifications. You are expected to serve any additional time for the escape once you are recaptured. In some cases, you may also face increased penalties and solitary confinement.

The legal system is not just about justice, but also about generating revenue. Once you are in the prison system, you become a living commodity for the state, bringing in money through various prison operations. Escaping results in a loss of revenue for the government, and they will take extreme measures to recapture you.

Real-World Examples

Several real-world examples underscore the severity of escaping from prison:

San Antonio, Texas: A man convicted of double murder managed to escape from prison, only to face an additional 99 years in prison for the escape. Other Cases: Numerous cases have reported individuals serving additional time for escaping, even when they claim to be innocent of the original crime.

Resources for the Innocent

For individuals who claim their innocence, the legal system provides avenues to overturn convictions:

Appeals: Legal appeals can help challenge wrongful convictions. Post-conviction relief: Various forms of post-conviction relief can be sought, such as habeas corpus, which allows a court to review the legality of detention. Investigative Support: Collaborating with organizations that specialize in wrongful convictions can provide necessary support and resources.

Conclusion

Escaping from prison is illegal, regardless of the circumstances. The justice system prioritizes the completion of sentences and recaptures escapees with strict measures. Innocence, while important, does not alter the legality of escape. If convicted, you must serve your time, and any act of escape is treated as an additional crime, with its own set of penalties.

For those seeking to challenge their convictions, the legal process exists, but it is arduous and often requires substantial evidence and support.