Good Morning Chairman Mendelson and members of the Committee on the Judiciary. 

I am Devon Brown, Director of the District of Columbia Department of Corrections. Thank you for the opportunity to testify at this forum on the June 3 escapes from the Central Detention Facility.

As you will hopefully understand, my remarks relating to the specifics of the event must be limited due to two open investigations of the incident, one being conducted internally, the other being pursued by the US Attorney’s Office. As I have repeatedly emphasized, it is of paramount importance that we all respect this situation as I cannot speak to any issue that may compromise the integrity or course of these investigations. I am joined today by my Deputy Director Patricia Britton and Budget Director, Ron Peele.

The fundamental objectives of all correctional systems are order, safety and security. It is the responsibility of all government officials to ensure that these basic yet essential goals are met and that public safety is always viewed as the most important consideration. The Department of Corrections takes seriously its role in this endeavor and vigorously works to identify, address and abate issues that may compromise any component of its mission.