Who should a commanding officer report an inmate escape to?

A commanding officer should report an inmate escape to both the chief of department and the district attorney because each has specific roles in the incident's management and response.

The chief of department is responsible for overseeing the operations within the correctional facility, ensuring that security protocols are adhered to and that any escape is treated with the utmost seriousness. This oversight includes coordinating the response and resource allocation necessary to address the escape and prevent further incidents.

Reporting to the district attorney is also crucial since an inmate escape is a criminal matter that may necessitate legal actions, such as pursuing charges against the escapee or considering implications for ongoing cases in the justice system. Involving the district attorney helps ensure that all legal protocols are followed and that the escape is effectively addressed from both a correctional and legal perspective.

Involving both the chief of department and the district attorney ensures a comprehensive approach to handling the situation, addressing both operational and legal responsibilities which is essential for maintaining order and accountability within the correctional system.