Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Serving Clovis, Portales and the Surrounding Communities
Today marks the one-month anniversary of the attempted escape of four inmates from the Curry County Adult Detention Center.
Sheriff Matt Murray took command of the facility in the aftermath of the escape after Interim Administrator Carlos Ortiz and several members of his command staff resigned.
Officials said the inmates — housed in isolation cells — ripped a metal desk from a wall and used it to bust holes through the cinderblock walls of their cells. Once free within the facility, they caused about $15,000 in damage to a window, lights and the ceiling in the visitation area.
They were captured without incident when law enforcement was called to assist.
Officials have since reported they discovered the facility was understaffed and staff had not been trained.
County Manager Lance Pyle answered questions by e-mail. His responses have been edited for style and clarity.
