WILX News 10
IONIA, Mich. — The convicted killer who escaped from an Ionia prison says he wasn’t trying to hurt anyone, he just wanted a second chance. Michael David Elliot made the comment to reporters Tuesday in Indiana, after he refused to waive an extradition hearing that would allow Michigan authorities to bring him back. Elliot is being held on a 1-million dollar bond, on one count of auto theft. Michigan has 30 days to issue a warrant for his return.
Michigan’s Department of Corrections and the Union representing officers inside the state’s prisons are at odds about security measures that failed, ultimately leading to Elliot’s escape. At the center of the debate, are gun towers. The structures allow armed prison guards a birds eye view of the prison yards. Until 9 years ago, the towers were manned 24 hours a day. But budget cuts, and staffing changes have left the towers empty.
Full story: State Dept. of Corrections and Officers Union at Odds Over Prison Security