News Summary
Law enforcement has intensified the search for two escapees from Orleans Parish jail, offering a $50,000 reward. Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves remain at large, raising safety concerns. The manhunt has already led to the capture of eight escapees, while reports reveal assistance from accomplices. Authorities are urging the public to report any sightings as the search continues amidst scrutiny of the jail’s staffing issues.
New Orleans — Law enforcement officials have intensified their manhunt for the last two escapees from the Orleans Parish jail, announcing an increased reward of $50,000 for information leading to their capture. The fugitives, Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves, remain at large nearly three weeks after a group of ten inmates escaped from the facility. The reward comprises contributions of $20,000 from the FBI, $20,000 from Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans, and $10,000 from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Authorities report that the ongoing search has been bolstered by nearly 700 leads submitted by the public resulting in the apprehension of eight of the escapees, including individuals with serious criminal backgrounds such as Lenton Vanburen Jr., who was captured in Baton Rouge. The other escapees taken into custody are Leo Tate Sr., Jermaine Donald, Corey Boyd, Kendell Myles, Robert Moody, Dkenan Dennis, and Gary Price.
Massey faces serious charges, including kidnapping, rape, and domestic violence, and has a history of evading capture, raising concerns about his potential for further violence. Groves is awaiting sentencing for two double homicides, marking him as a particularly dangerous individual. Both are considered armed and dangerous, and law enforcement is urging the public to report any sightings or information regarding their whereabouts.
As the manhunt progresses, the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office faces scrutiny over the circumstances surrounding the escape. Reports indicate that the jail was operating at only 60% staffing capacity at the time. This staffing shortage, along with other infrastructural issues, has drawn criticism from various quarters, including the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s office, which has distanced itself from investigating the escape due to a conflict with Sheriff Susan Hutson.
In related developments, it has been revealed that many of the escapees received assistance from at least 14 accomplices, including friends and family who allegedly provided food, cash, and shelter. A former jail employee has also come under suspicion for allegedly helping Vanburen evade authorities by transporting him to a relative’s home and providing access to communication devices. Investigations suggest that several escapees utilized internet phone services to avoid detection by law enforcement.
In an unusual legal move, Vanburen has requested to represent himself in his second-degree murder case, and this request was granted by the judge after a psychologist deemed him fit to stand trial. His former attorney expressed concerns about this decision, noting the complexities involved in legal representation.
Daishanae Massey, the sister of Antoine Massey, along with two other women, has been arrested on suspicion of aiding in the escape. The ongoing investigation has raised serious safety concerns for families and prosecutors connected to the violent escapees, prompting law enforcement to prioritize the urgency of their capture.
As the manhunt continues to expand, authorities are relying heavily on community assistance and communication to resolve the critical situation posed by the remaining fugitives. The rewards and public pleas emphasize the danger these individuals pose and the need to ensure the safety of the community.
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Additional Resources
- AP News: New Orleans Jailbreak
- Wikipedia: Jailbreak
- Fox News: Louisiana AG on Jailbreak Fugitives
- Google Search: New Orleans Jailbreak
- WWLTV: Orleans Jail Escape Update
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Fugitive (Crime)
- CBS News: $50,000 Reward for Escapees
- Google News: New Orleans Jail Escape
