What does released on a technicality mean?

To "get off" in this context means that they were allowed to go free, without facing any charge/punishment. A "technicality" in this instance means that they got off due to something which meant that their trial could not take place properly because of an error, or a problem with the system itself.

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make it through

to survive

to make it through (something): to survive, to endure (something), to successfully complete (something) without significant stress or harm. idiom. I made it through the wilderness.

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in·ci·den·tal

an incidental detail, expense, event, etc.

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on the hook for

: owing money for (something) : responsible for (something)

He's still on the hook for the cost of the repairs.

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turnout gear

Bunker gear or turnout gear is the term used by many fire departments to refer to the protective clothing worn by firefighters. The name “bunker gear” was derived from the fact that the pants and boots were traditionally kept by the firefighter's bunk at the fire station and ready for use.

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keep up with

continue to be in contact with someone.

"they had kept up with him by means of Christmas cards"

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