Security Lapses Led to Suspect's Escape

Matthew Wells was in a holding room being questioned about gunplay near Clark Atlanta University Wednesday when he escaped from police custody. Police said they found security lapses that made the man's escape easy.

After Wednesday night's escape, detectives went back and checked what was supposed to be a locked holding room door. One investigator pushed against it and the door came open.

At his initial court appearance on Friday, Wells chose to be silent. Just a day before, he had plenty to say about his flight from law enforcement.

"How did you get out?" asked FOX 5 reporter Morse Diggs. "I picked the lock," said Wells.

Authorities said only one of the man's legs was restrained by a shackle. They said Wells got out of it while detectives left him alone in an interview room.

APD surveillance tape shows Wells just after his escape the holding room and riding a back elevator to freedom.

Two sources inside APD and at Atlanta city hall confirm the room the man was in had a faulty door lock. With some pressure, the lock releases.

Investigators were supposed to be able to question Wells or any other person without having to be present every minute the person is being detained.

City hall officials responsible for the construction of the police headquarters met with police Friday and told the detectives that all doors to the interview rooms can be retrofitted.

As for the suspect, it initially looked like he might bond out of the Fulton County jail, but that won't happen -- more charges have been filed.

Wells will be back in court Saturday on the additional charges. They include gun possession counts and giving false information to law enforcement.