Derrick Groves and Antoine Massey Remain at Large as Eight of Ten Orleans Justice Center Escapees Recaptured in Multi-State Manhunt

New Orleans, LA – May 27, 2025 — In a dramatic turn of events, eight of the ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center on May 16 have been recaptured, while two remain at large. The escape, which involved a meticulously planned breach through a hole behind a toilet, has prompted a nationwide manhunt and raised serious concerns about security protocols within the facility.(AP News, ABC News)

The Escape

The jailbreak occurred in the early hours of May 16, when ten inmates exploited a structural vulnerability behind a toilet in their cell. They dismantled the sink and toilet, creating an opening through which they escaped. Surveillance footage later revealed the inmates scaling a barbed-wire fence and fleeing into the night. A mocking message, “Too Easy LOL,” was left behind, underscoring the audacity of the escape. (People.com, The Times)

Recaptured Inmates

The following inmates have been recaptured:(The Times)

• Kendall Myles (21): Apprehended under a car in a hotel garage in the French Quarter. (Wikipedia)
• Robert Moody (22): Details of his capture have not been disclosed.
• Dkenan Dennis (24): Charged with armed robbery with a firearm and illegal carrying of a weapon during a crime of violence. (Wikipedia)
• Gary Price (21): Facing charges including attempted first-degree murder and domestic abuse. (Wikipedia)
• Corey Boyd (20): Wanted for a fatal shooting; captured using facial recognition technology. (The Times)
• Lenton VanBuren Jr. (26): Captured in Baton Rouge during a traffic stop. (WDSU)
• Leo Tate (32) and Jermaine Donald (43): Apprehended in Walker County, Texas, after a high-speed pursuit. (AP News)

Inmates Still at Large

Authorities continue to search for:

• Derrick Groves (28): Convicted of second-degree murder. (Wikipedia)
• Antoine Massey (33): Charged with domestic abuse involving strangulation and automotive theft. (Wikipedia)

Both individuals are considered dangerous, and the public is urged to report any sightings to law enforcement immediately.

Investigation and Security Lapses

The escape has highlighted significant security lapses within the Orleans Justice Center. A maintenance worker, Sterling Williams, has been arrested for allegedly aiding the escapees by shutting off water to the cell, allowing them to dismantle fixtures and access the escape route. (People.com)

Additionally, several individuals, including current inmates and external accomplices, have been charged with assisting the escapees. These charges range from aiding the escape to providing resources and transportation to the fugitives. (The Times, The Guardian)

Community Impact and Response

The jailbreak has caused widespread concern among New Orleans residents, prompting increased security measures and a comprehensive review of jail protocols. Sheriff Susan Hutson has pledged a thorough investigation into the incident and has requested additional funding to address systemic issues within the facility. (The Guardian)

Ongoing Manhunt

Law enforcement agencies across state lines, including the U.S. Marshals and state troopers, continue to collaborate in the search for Groves and Massey. Authorities have increased efforts, involving over 200 personnel and offering $20,000 rewards per fugitive. (The Times)

The public is advised to remain vigilant and report any information that may lead to the apprehension of the remaining escapees.

This is a developing story. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.