Clinton Correctional Facility officer Gene Palmer became the second person to be arrested and charged in relation to the bold breakout of Richard Matt and David Sweat. The 57-year-old is now facing one count of promoting dangerous prison contraband, two counts of destroying evidence, and one count of official misconduct, for his participation in the bold prison break.
Clinton County District Attorney Andrew Wylie stated that Palmer allegedly took frozen hamburger meat embedded with tools to the two escapees. He also escorted the two men into a catwalk behind their cells to fix electrical breakers, according to Reuters. The catwalk was later used by the convicts in their escape.
The tools that Palmer provided include a screwdriver and a wrench. However, when questioned by investigators, Palmer stated that he was supervising the two men while they were using the tools, and that he got them back before the end of his shift, CNN reported.
The tools were found in Palmer's house when the authorities executed a search warrant.
Andrew Brockway, who is currently serving as palmer's lawyer, states that Palmer admits that he is at fault to some degree, emphasizing that his client is willing to cooperate with the authorities.
"Mr. Palmer has been completely cooperative with the investigation. He will continue to cooperate. He's a man of integrity who made some mistakes," Brockway said.
"He understands that he made a mistake with the whole meat fiasco," he added.
Palmer has pleaded not guilty on the charges brought against him. He is currently in the Clinton County Jail and will remain there until Thursday, when he is set to appear before the court, CNN reported. His lawyer states that he intends to get Palmer out of jail as soon as possible so he can take care of his wife.
