Escaped Inmate Faces Additional Firearm Charges in New Brunswick
Court documents have revealed that an inmate who escaped from a New Brunswick correctional facility earlier this month was subsequently charged with possessing a restricted and loaded firearm. Todd John Lewis, who was serving a manslaughter sentence, managed to flee the Southeast Regional Correctional Centre in Shediac on February 12, 2026.
Details from Court Filings
The court documents, which were recently made public, indicate that Lewis was apprehended by authorities and now faces serious additional charges related to firearm possession. Specifically, he has been charged with having a restricted firearm that was loaded at the time of his capture. This development adds a significant layer of complexity to an already high-profile escape case.
The Southeast Regional Correctional Centre, where the escape occurred, is a provincial facility that has now come under increased scrutiny. The incident has raised questions about security protocols and inmate monitoring procedures at the institution.
Background of the Escaped Inmate
Todd John Lewis was serving a sentence for manslaughter when he executed his escape. The circumstances surrounding how he managed to leave the correctional facility remain under investigation by both prison authorities and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Following his escape, an extensive manhunt was launched across the region. The discovery that he was allegedly in possession of a loaded, restricted firearm upon his capture has heightened concerns about public safety during the period he was at large.
Legal Implications and Ongoing Proceedings
The new firearm charges represent a substantial escalation in Lewis's legal troubles. Possession of a restricted firearm carries significant penalties under Canadian law, particularly when the weapon is loaded. These charges will be processed alongside any consequences related to the escape itself.
Authorities have not disclosed how Lewis allegedly obtained the firearm or whether it was in his possession during the escape or acquired afterward. The investigation continues as officials work to piece together the complete timeline of events.
This case highlights ongoing challenges within the correctional system and raises important questions about how inmates with violent histories are monitored and secured. The Southeast Regional Correctional Centre will likely face increased oversight following this incident.
The judicial process for these new charges is expected to proceed through the New Brunswick court system, where Lewis will answer to both the escape and firearm possession allegations. Public safety advocates are calling for thorough reviews of correctional facility security measures in light of this troubling case.
