The bill amends R.S. 15:909 to enhance the reporting requirements for escapes from juvenile institutions in Louisiana. It expands the definition of institutions to include facilities that house juvenile offenders on behalf of the state, thereby ensuring that any escape from these facilities is reported in a timely manner. The superintendent or the highest-ranking employee at these institutions must notify law enforcement agencies and local media outlets within ten minutes of an escape. Additionally, the bill mandates that a detailed record of each escape be maintained, including information such as the date and time of the escape, the number of offenders involved, and the offenses for which they were incarcerated.

Furthermore, the bill stipulates that reports of escapes must be made available for public inspection and include a history of prior escapes from the institution or facility within the last five years. The secretary of the Department of Public Safety and Corrections is tasked with promulgating rules to ensure immediate reporting of all escapes. The bill also clarifies the definitions of "law enforcement agency" and "local media outlets" to encompass various local news services. Overall, the legislation aims to improve accountability and transparency regarding juvenile escapes in the state.

Statutes affected:
SB7 Original: 15:909(A)
SB7 Engrossed:
SB7 Enrolled:
SB7 Act 87: