Meza Azul Correctional Facility, Arizona is designed to hold the worst collection of criminals in the USA. It is also prided by its founders for being one hundred percent escape proof.

So it is with mixed horror and disbelief that Governor James Blaine discovers 'lifer' and ex-Navy submarine captain Timothy Driver has somehow managed to take control of the security and surveillance systems and begin releasing his fellow prisoners.

First to leave his cell is the crazy Cutter Kehoe, and together these highly dangerous men are soon armed and holding hostage 163 prison staff. Then Driver makes a single demand - that Frank Corso is delivered to him in person, or he and Kehoe will shoot one prison guard every six hours.

By the time Frank Corso enters Meza Azul the riot has escalated out of control, and Driver and Kehoe give Frank no choice but to join them in their spectacular escape . . .