Orleans Parish Jail Mistakenly Releases Violent Offender, Investigation Launched
A violent offender was mistakenly released from the Orleans Parish Jail due to a clerical error, prompting an internal investigation. Sheriff Susan Hutson acknowledged the mistake and apologized, citing a misidentification based on a shared last name between two individuals. Authorities are working to recapture the inmate, who faces multiple charges, including a pending arrest warrant and prior felony offenses.
In the statement released by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, Hutson emphasized the Office’s commitment to addressing the incident thoroughly. “This incident was the result of human error: a misidentification based on a shared last name between two individuals. We are currently conducting a full internal investigation, and I can confirm that disciplinary actions will occur,” she said.
Following the release, Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams issued a sharply worded statement, underscoring the systemic issues in maintaining custody and control over detained individuals. “The failure to properly confirm the identity of an inmate prior to release is an unacceptable lapse that presents a real and immediate risk to public safety,” Williams stated.
Mr. Bryan is facing violent and non-violent charges, including but not limited to illegal possession of stolen property, possession of drug paraphernalia, and resisting an officer. Additionally, he had an active warrant from Criminal District Court Section H for aggravated assault with a firearm, domestic abuse, child endangerment, and home invasion. Bryan was also wanted in nearby Jefferson Parish and was being held on a $100,000 bench warrant for failure to appear, along with a separate $25,000 bond tied to recent felony charges.
Williams further emphasized the importance of ensuring victim notification and support. “OPDA Victim Advocates have initiated victim outreach and will continue efforts until all victims and witnesses associated with Bryan’s prosecution are reached. Where we are unable to make contact, we are dispatching investigators to ensure the affected victims and their families are notified and receive appropriate support,” he said.
This incident occurred just 10 weeks after a high-profile escape from the same prison on May 16, when 10 inmates fled from the Orleans Parish Jail. Nine were recaptured and pleaded not guilty earlier this week, while one man, Derrick Groves, remains at large, according to court and OPSO records.
Law enforcement is now working across parish lines to locate and detain Bryan. “We urge anyone with information about Khalil Bryan’s whereabouts to immediately contact law enforcement,” the District Attorney’s Office said.
The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office and Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office did not immediately respond to Fox News Digital’s request for comment.