Escaped prisoner serving murder sentence caught at N. Carolina Hotel

North Carolina, USA - Ramone Alston, a prisoner serving a life sentence for murder, was captured at a North Carolina hotel after a daring escape earlier this week. This incident has sparked discussions about prison security measures and the complexities of apprehending fugitives.

The Escape and Capture

On Tuesday, Ramone Alston, aged 30, managed to escape from a transport van while en route to a medical appointment at UNC Gastroenterology in Hillsborough, North Carolina. Alston, who was still in handcuffs, freed himself from his leg restraints and fled into the nearby woods, initiating a three-day manhunt. His escape was facilitated by at least one accomplice, highlighting potential lapses in security protocols during prisoner transport.

The search for Alston culminated in his capture at approximately 2 a.m. on Friday at a hotel in Kannapolis, near Charlotte, about 110 miles southwest of Hillsborough. The operation involved a coordinated effort by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, including the FBI Charlotte SWAT team and the Kannapolis and Charlotte-Mecklenburg police departments. Fortunately, the arrest was executed without any injuries.

Background of the Convict

Ramone Alston has been serving a life sentence at Bertie Correctional Institution in Windsor after being convicted of the murder of 1-year-old Maleah Williams. The tragic incident occurred on Christmas Day in 2015, when Williams was shot while playing outside her family's apartment in Chapel Hill. She succumbed to her injuries three days later. Alston's conviction and subsequent escape have kept the case in the public eye, particularly given the young age of the victim and the circumstances of the crime.

Investigation and Legal Proceedings

Following his capture, Alston is set to face charges of felony escape from prison. He has been transferred to the Granville Correctional Institution's high-security maximum control unit, the most secure facility within the state prison system. Authorities are considering additional charges related to his escape and are conducting an internal review to identify potential areas for improvement in prison transport procedures.

A woman, identified as Jacobia Crisp, was also arrested in connection with Alston's escape. She faces charges of felony aiding and abetting a fugitive. Investigators believe she may have provided transportation to Alston during his time on the run, although the specifics of her involvement remain under investigation. The relationship between Alston and Crisp reportedly began several months ago and was primarily conducted over the phone.

Reactions and Implications

The escape and subsequent capture of Ramone Alston have prompted a broader discussion about the effectiveness of current prison transport and security measures. Todd Ishee, Secretary of the North Carolina Department of Adult Correction, praised the collaborative efforts of the law enforcement agencies involved in Alston's capture, stating, "This was a remarkable team effort." He also indicated that an internal investigation is underway to assess the procedures that allowed Alston to escape.

The case has also raised questions about the potential for reform in the handling of high-risk prisoners during transport. The officers responsible for Alston's transport have been reassigned to non-transport duties pending the outcome of the investigation.

The capture of Ramone Alston underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement in maintaining security and public safety. It also highlights the need for continual assessment and improvement of prison protocols to prevent similar incidents in the future. As the investigation unfolds, it will be crucial for authorities to address any shortcomings and ensure that justice is served for the victims and their families. The case serves as a reminder of the complexities involved in the criminal justice system and the ongoing efforts required to uphold its integrity.