Overview of the Orleans Parish Justice Center highlighting security features during the jailbreak incident.
A jailbreak at the Orleans Parish Justice Center occurred early Friday, with ten inmates escaping. Seven are still at large and are considered armed and dangerous. The incident raises concerns over security lapses, including defective locks and malfunctioning cameras, leading to an investigation. Local law enforcement is searching for the escapees and soliciting public assistance. Upgrading security is projected to cost around $5.2 million, emphasizing the need for better resource allocation in the justice system.
New Orleans – A significant jailbreak at the Orleans Parish Justice Center occurred early Friday morning, leading to the escape of ten inmates, seven of whom remain at large. Local law enforcement has warned the public that these escapees should be considered armed and dangerous.
The incident unfolded around midnight when inmates managed to breach security, enabling their escape. By 8:30 a.m., a routine headcount confirmed that the inmates were missing, prompting an immediate response from law enforcement agencies. Sheriffs and deputies were dispatched to search the area and began coordinating their efforts with local and federal authorities.
Among the escapees is Kendell Myles, who was captured a few hours later hiding under a car near the Monteleone Hotel. Two other escapees, Robert Moody and Dkenan Dennis, have also been apprehended. However, the remaining seven escapees include individuals facing serious charges, such as murder, underscoring the potential danger they pose to the public.
In total, the individuals who escaped include Antoine Massey, Lenton Vanburen, Leo Tate, Derrick Groves, Jermaine Donald, Corey Boyd, and Gary Price. The circumstances surrounding their escape are under scrutiny, with Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson suggesting that defective locks played a significant role in their ability to flee the facility. Instances of malfunctioning security equipment have persisted since she took office, raising concerns about the facility’s maintenance.
Security lapses were compounded by reports that numerous security cameras within the jail were inoperable during the escape, which has resulted in three jail employees being suspended. Evidence has emerged suggesting that the inmates might have received assistance from individuals either inside the jail or affiliated with the facility during their breakout.
Video surveillance footage showed the inmates escaping through a loading dock, where they then crossed an interstate. The investigation into the incident has led law enforcement to call for public assistance, with the FBI even offering a reward for information leading to the capture of the remaining escapees.
In light of the jailbreak, a broader investigation into security and operational practices at the Orleans Parish Justice Center has been initiated. Adding to the urgency, it has been reported that upgrading the facility’s security systems could potentially cost around $5.2 million, a hefty sum that raises questions about funding and resource allocation for the justice system.
Former Sheriff Marlin Gusman criticized the situation as “inexcusable,” highlighting the failure to keep the security systems adequately updated. The wide-ranging implications of this event underscore the need for a comprehensive review and overhaul of safety measures within local correctional facilities.
As the search continues for the seven remaining escapees, law enforcement remains committed to ensuring public safety and apprehending those still at large. Community members are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities.
Ten Inmates Escape from Orleans Parish Justice Center
Inmates Recaptured Following New Orleans Jailbreak
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