North Carolina

Authorities are searching for the escapee in a rural, sparsely populated area

Since Jan. 1, nine inmates have died by suicide, with suspected staff shortages largely to blame

The body scanner, which was purchased with state and county funds, cost around $200,000

"It's a proven fact that I will not tolerate foolishness," Sheriff Burnis Wilkins said

Despite efforts to improve recruitment and retention, the vacancy rate in jail positions continues to grow

Inmate Elijah Evans was sentenced in January to more than 10 years for the 2021 assault

“That is not happening under my watch," Sheriff Garry McFadden said

Kelly Boswell intervened "without hesitation" when an inmate assaulted 2 COs in an escape attempt, the sheriff's office said

The private officers will be paid between $26.89 and $31.35, higher than the new entry wage for jail and deputy hires

Among other changes, Sheriff Garry McFadden says his office has raised starting officer pay to "top dollar" to attract more applicants

The state’s findings could trigger a process in which the sheriff and county either correct the violations or risk having the jail closed

A third escapee remains on the run as of Wednesday afternoon

Officer Helen Mae Smith collapsed while on duty last week