News Summary
Darriana Burton, 28, was arrested for her alleged involvement in a jailbreak conspiracy linked to escaped inmate Derrick Groves. Authorities have confirmed that the couple had a tumultuous three-year relationship. This arrest follows a jailbreak incident at the Orleans Parish Justice Center, where several inmates escaped. Meanwhile, a manhunt continues for Groves and another fugitive, with a $50,000 reward offered for information leading to their capture.
New Orleans – Darriana Burton, a 28-year-old woman believed to be the girlfriend of escaped inmate Derrick Groves, was arrested on Monday for her alleged involvement in a jailbreak conspiracy. Burton was taken into custody without incident in the 2600 block of St. Peters Street following a warrant issued by the Louisiana Attorney General for conspiracy to commit simple escape.
Attorney General Liz Murrill confirmed that Burton and Groves had been in an on-again, off-again relationship for three years. This arrest comes three weeks after a significant jailbreak at the Orleans Parish Justice Center, where initially ten inmates escaped. Among these, eight have been recaptured, while Groves and another inmate, Antoine Massey, remain at large. To assist in their capture, authorities are offering a $50,000 reward for information leading to their whereabouts.
Burton previously worked as an employee for the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) from August 2022 until March 2023. However, she had faced legal issues prior to her arrest: she was charged with bringing contraband into the jail, although those charges were later dropped by the district attorney’s office, leading to her termination from the OPSO.
The jailbreak originated in the early hours of May 16, 2025, prompting a widespread manhunt for the remaining escapees. Law enforcement continues to pursue leads, particularly using tips from the public, including friends and family of Groves and Massey, who may have information about their locations. A recent attempt to locate Massey at a residence based on a viral video of him claiming he had been “let out” of jail was unsuccessful.
During the manhunt, Kendell Myles, one of the fugitives, was apprehended while he was hiding under a vehicle in the Hotel Monteleone garage. The ongoing investigation has led to the arrests of several individuals suspected of aiding the escapees, who are facing felony charges as accessories after the fact. Law enforcement has indicated that those who assist the fugitives will face serious consequences.
The situation surrounding the jailbreak has drawn public attention and scrutiny regarding jail conditions in New Orleans, with reports from former inmates raising concerns about treatment and facilities within the prison system. This dialogue occurs amid ongoing investigations and efforts to ensure accountability for any individuals who facilitated the escape.
Burton has been transported to the Plaquemines Parish Jail following her arrest, as law enforcement continues to emphasize their commitment to tracking down Groves and Massey. The authorities’ manhunt remains active and prioritized as they seek to restore safety and control in the community.
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Former Sheriff’s Office Employee Arrested for Jailbreak
Additional Resources
- WWLTV: Woman accused of helping escapee Derrick Groves arrested
- Google Search: New Orleans jail escape
- Fox News: Authorities raid home where New Orleans jail escapee appeared
- Encyclopedia Britannica: New Orleans jail escape
- CNN: New Orleans escape updates on Massey and Groves
- Google News: New Orleans jail escape latest
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