Authorities intensify security measures at Orleans Parish Jail following inmate escape.
A month after ten inmates escaped from the Orleans Parish Jail, two remain at large. Law enforcement is actively searching for Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves while eight others have been recaptured. The escape, which raised significant concerns about jail security, involved inmates tampering with their cells. Authorities are investigating potential inside help, leading to the suspension of several jail employees. The FBI is also involved, offering rewards for information on the fugitives as a thorough review of jail operations is initiated by Louisiana’s governor.
New Orleans, Louisiana – A month has passed since a brazen escape involving ten inmates at the Orleans Parish jail, with two fugitives still on the run. Law enforcement continues its search for Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves, while eight others have been recaptured following the incident that raised serious concerns about jail security and operations.
Authorities apprehended the following individuals in connection with the escape: Kendell Myles, Robert Moody, Gary Price, D’Kenan Dennis, Corey Boyd, Lenton Vanburen Jr., Jermaine Donald, and Leo Tate. The ongoing search for Massey and Groves has escalated since their escape on May 14, 2023, which involved inmates tampering with their cells and making a hole behind a toilet. The inmates executed their escape plan around 12:23 a.m. and exited the facility through a door at approximately 1:01 a.m.
Massey, 30, is a repeat offender. His criminal history stretches back to 2007, including prior escapes from a juvenile detention center and the Morehouse Parish Detention Center. He has a record of cutting off ankle monitors, with one incident occurring at a Walmart earlier this year. Recently, law enforcement executed a raid on a residence linked to Massey on Agriculture Street, where they uncovered belongings he reportedly wore in videos posted on social media. In these videos, he claims innocence while asserting that he was “let out” of the Orleans Justice Center.
Massey was originally held on domestic abuse charges and car theft. However, he also has outstanding warrants for second-degree rape and kidnapping, further complicating his legal troubles. Meanwhile, Groves, who was jailed on charges of three counts of attempted second-degree murder, was convicted in October 2024. He has familial ties to a victim associated with a notable murder case in New Orleans.
Groves’ escape involved alleged assistance from his girlfriend, Darriana Burton, who has since been arrested and faces a bond of $2.5 million. The escape incident has sparked suspicions of an inside job, leading to the temporary suspension of three Orleans Parish jail employees, with one maintenance worker arrested in connection with the breach.
The FBI is currently involved in the manhunt for the remaining fugitives, offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to their recapture. Additionally, a $50,000 reward is in place for any details regarding either Massey or Groves. Law enforcement sources have expressed optimism that both fugitives could be recaptured within weeks, citing ongoing investigative efforts.
Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has initiated a thorough review and audit of the Orleans Parish jail operations in response to the escape, intending to implement systemic changes. Public perception of the jail’s leadership remains concerning, with significant doubts cast on Sheriff Susan Hutson‘s capabilities, while NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick enjoys a higher approval rating among the community.
In the wake of this high-profile escape, New Orleans City Council President JP Morrell has voiced criticism towards Sheriff Hutson’s leadership, making claims about shortcomings in jail security. As the investigation progresses, authorities are focusing not only on recapturing the fugitives but also on preventing future incidents that could jeopardize public safety.
As the search for Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves continues, both law enforcement and the public remain vigilant, hoping for a swift resolution to ensure community safety and restore confidence in the city’s correctional systems.
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