Escape from Wiener Fortice Institute: 22 cases registered this year

Escape from Wiener Fortice Institute: 22 cases registered this year

In the past few months, an alarming situation has developed in Austria that draws attention to the issue of prison. 22 escapes have already been recorded by July 28, 2024, which means that the numbers of the previous year could soon be exceeded. Last week, a 19-year-old prisoner from the Mittersteig special institution in Vienna-Margaret fled. Despite an intensive search, it has not yet been caught, according to the information from the State Police Directorate.

The flight fell at a time when the Ministry of Justice informed about the previous escape numbers. While a total of 24 escapes were documented throughout 2023, the numbers are already worryingly high by July 2024. The current case raises many questions. The refugee prisoner probably used his employment as a home worker in the institution to escape a scaffolding that was attached to the facade. The Federal Ministry of Justice, Sina Bründler, explained that this possibility had now been “immediately abolished”, but did not specifically comment on the exact circumstances.

worrying trends and changes

A look at the numbers shows that in particular escapes, i.e. escapes from non-closed areas, are a common phenomenon. Many prisoners use the freedom that they are granted by approved exits so as not to return. Bründler made it clear that such outputs are important to prepare the occupants for life according to detention, and are usually observed. This year, however, there was only one escape during a police scale, where prisoners are accompanied on medical dates or court hearings. In 2023 there were four such incidents with more than 40,000 escorts.

The case of the prisoner from the Mittersteig institution is reminiscent of the challenges with which the Ministry of Justice is confronted. Last year the authorities had several escapes, which led to stricter regulations for outer dates and escorts. In the future, prisoners will be tied up behind the back at escorts to increase the security during such transfers at escorts.

protective measures in focus

The incidents also have discussed discussions about security in prisons and the current measures. Bründler emphasized that the authorities continue to check how the latest flight could occur and what changes are necessary to prevent similar situations in the future. The exact classification of the type of escape - whether it is an escape, an outbreak or a non -return - remains unclear. Nevertheless, it remains a persistent concern to ensure the security of the citizens and the integrity of the judicial system.

For more information about this ongoing situation and the associated dangers, see the current reporting on www.gmx.at .