Second New York prison worker charged in breakout

A second Clinton Correctional Facility employee was arrested Wednesday for aiding the escape of two convicted murderers who escaped the prison in upstate New York on June 6.

CNN quoted Clinton County District Attorney Andrew Wylie as saying correctional officer Gene Palmer allegedly smuggled tools used by inmates Richard Matt and David Sweat in their escape, according to Reuters.

Wylie also said Palmer gave the two men access to a catwalk area behind their cells to fix electrical breakers so the inmates could power hot plates to cook food in their cells. Authorities previously stated the inmates used the catwalks in their escape.

New York State Police said Palmer was arrested and charged with promoting prison contraband, destroying evidence and official misconduct. Palmer was scheduled to appear at a preliminary hearing Thursday.

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