Following his escape from Arkham Asylum, the suspect known as "The Joker" committed numerous violent felonies across Gotham City over a 48-hour period. Confirmed charges include:
Multiple counts of first-degree murder (victims include GCPD officers, civilians, and a firefighter)Involuntary manslaughter (via reckless chemical exposure)Voluntary manslaughter (per witness testimony)Enthusiastic manslaughter (according to suspect)Armed hijacking of a city transit vehicle (resulting in a high-speed collision)Arson (destruction of a residential care facility)Biological tampering (release of venomous reptiles in a populated area)Surgical mutilation of a civilian (later discovered at a mayoral function)Evidence tampering (destruction of GCPD property)Obstruction of justice (deliberate interference with emergency response units)Mishandling of Dairy Products. (according to local milkman)Indecent Exposure (according to local milkman)
The suspect was apprehended after breaking into a restricted military research facility, where authorities believe he intended to mass-produce his signature neurotoxin. The Batman, an unsanctioned vigilante, intervened before further casualties could occur.
State Superintendent Harkness condemned the "undemocratic interference" of vigilantes in police matters and issued a formal reprimand to officers who allegedly cooperated with the masked individual.
The Joker remains in custody at Arkham Asylum. The GCPD urges any witnesses with additional information to come forward.