In October 2017, a failed escape attempt at North Carolina’s Pasquotank Correctional Institution resulted in the tragic deaths of four prison employees. The incident, marking one of the state’s deadliest prison break attempts, has led to a series of trials for the inmates involved. The latest to face justice is Wisezah Buckman, who was recently convicted and sentenced for his role in the fatal endeavor.
The 2017 Pasquotank Prison Break Attempt
On October 12, 2017, inmates at the Pasquotank Correctional Institution in Elizabeth City orchestrated a violent escape plan. The facility’s sewing plant became the epicenter of chaos as inmates armed themselves with tools, including hammers and scissors, to overpower prison staff. Their objective was to create havoc, set fires, and ultimately break free from the confines of the prison.
The assault led to the brutal deaths of four dedicated prison employees:
- Veronica Darden, 50, the manager of the prison’s sewing plant.
- Geoffrey Howe, 31, a maintenance worker.
- Justin Smith, 35, a correctional officer.
- Wendy Shannon, 49, a correctional officer.
Despite the inmates’ efforts, the escape attempt was thwarted, and none succeeded in breaking free.
The Trials and Convictions
The gravity of the incident led to the indictment of four inmates: Mikel Brady, Wisezah Buckman, Jonathan Monk, and Seth Frazier. Each faced multiple charges, including first-degree murder.
- Mikel Brady: In 2019, Brady was the first to stand trial. He was convicted on four counts of first-degree murder and subsequently sentenced to death. Brady had a history of violent offenses, including the attempted murder of a North Carolina state trooper in 2013. corrections1.com
- Wisezah Buckman: Buckman’s trial commenced in October 2023. After a nearly month-long proceeding, he was found guilty on four counts of first-degree murder. In November 2023, the jury recommended, and the judge imposed, the death penalty for three of the murder convictions, with a sentence of life without parole for the fourth. 13newsnow.com
- Jonathan Monk and Seth Frazier: As of March 2025, both Monk and Frazier are awaiting trial. Their proceedings have been delayed due to various legal and procedural challenges.
Impact on North Carolina’s Prison System
The Pasquotank incident shed light on significant vulnerabilities within North Carolina’s prison system. Investigations revealed chronic understaffing, with reports indicating that a quarter of positions at the Pasquotank facility were vacant at the time of the escape attempt. This shortage led to overworked staff and lapses in security protocols.
The National Institute of Corrections conducted an evaluation following the incident, highlighting several systemic issues:
- Inadequate Tracking: There was a failure to monitor tools, metal objects, and hazardous materials within the facility, which the inmates exploited during their escape attempt.
- Security Lapses: Doors were left unlocked, and inmates had unsupervised access to various areas, including the sewing plant, where they initiated their plan.
- Insufficient Surveillance: Blind spots in camera coverage allowed inmates to operate without detection, facilitating the orchestration of the escape.
In response to these findings, the North Carolina Department of Public Safety implemented several reforms:
- Staffing Enhancements: Efforts were made to fill vacant positions and reduce overtime burdens on existing staff.
- Security Upgrades: The prison infrastructure underwent improvements, including better surveillance systems and stricter control over tools and materials.
- Training Programs: Enhanced training modules were introduced to prepare staff for emergency situations and improve overall response strategies.
The Road Ahead
The convictions of Brady and Buckman underscore the state’s commitment to seeking justice for the victims and their families. As the trials for Monk and Frazier approach, the Department of Public Safety continues to focus on strengthening prison security and ensuring such a tragedy does not recur.
Families of the victims have been vocal about the need for systemic change. They advocate for continued reforms and emphasize the importance of remembering the sacrifices of Darden, Howe, Smith, and Shannon. Memorials and tributes have been established in their honor, serving as poignant reminders of the risks correctional staff face daily.
Conclusion
The 2017 Pasquotank prison break attempt was a watershed moment for North Carolina’s correctional system. It exposed critical flaws and prompted a comprehensive reevaluation of prison operations statewide. While justice has been served for some perpetrators, the ongoing trials and reforms highlight a continued commitment to accountability and improvement. The legacy of the fallen prison employees serves as a catalyst for change, ensuring their tragic deaths lead to a safer environment for both staff and inmates in the future.
(Source : newsbreak.com)
