The manhunt continues for two dangerous fugitives who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center in what is quickly becoming one of the most serious security breaches in recent memory. The fugitives—Derrick Groves and Antoine Massey—are both considered high-risk individuals with violent histories, prompting an aggressive response from local, state, and federal authorities.
Derrick Groves, one of the most notorious escapees, was convicted of a double homicide committed during the 2018 Mardi Gras celebration. He also previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter in unrelated cases. Groves was awaiting formal sentencing at the time of the jailbreak. His escape is not only a serious threat to public safety but also raises urgent questions about how someone with his violent background could escape from a supposedly secure facility.
Antoine Massey, the second escapee still at large, has an established history of defying law enforcement. His rap sheet includes domestic abuse, vehicle theft, and multiple parole violations. Massey’s pattern of escaping custody is particularly alarming, and his high-risk classification rendered him ineligible for release under an ankle monitoring program. The fact that he managed to escape yet again has drawn sharp criticism from corrections experts and former prison officials.
Among them is Cameron Lindsay, a former federal prison warden, who expressed deep concern over Massey’s cell assignment and the conditions of his confinement. Lindsay argued that Massey should have been under heightened surveillance, with increased frequency of both scheduled and unscheduled cell checks. Proper documentation of security rounds by supervisors, Lindsay stated, should have been non-negotiable—especially for an inmate with a known history of escape.
Authorities are leaving nothing to chance. The Louisiana State Police, FBI, and other law enforcement agencies have joined forces in a coordinated pursuit to locate and capture Groves and Massey. A joint press conference is scheduled to provide updates on the investigation and search efforts, emphasizing transparency and accountability as the situation unfolds.
Eight other inmates who escaped in the same incident have already been recaptured, demonstrating the effectiveness of the ongoing operation. These individuals reportedly scaled a barbed wire fence in a coordinated attempt to flee the facility. Their quick apprehension points to a swift and disciplined response by law enforcement personnel.
In addition to the recaptured inmates, authorities have arrested 14 people suspected of helping the fugitives. These individuals allegedly provided assistance both before and after the jailbreak, showcasing the broader network involved in enabling the escape. Their arrests underscore the zero-tolerance approach being taken toward those who aid and abet fugitives.
Despite these efforts, the escape has brought to light a number of systemic problems at the Orleans Justice Center. Policy-makers and law enforcement leaders alike are now calling for a review of security protocols, particularly when it comes to monitoring inmates with a high risk of violence or escape. The fact that Massey—known for previous escape attempts—was not placed under tighter controls is a failure that cannot be ignored.
The implications of this event go beyond just a manhunt. It highlights critical vulnerabilities within our correctional institutions that must be addressed if we are to maintain public trust in the justice system. Facilities responsible for housing dangerous offenders must be equipped and staffed in a manner that prioritizes both security and accountability.
The search for Groves and Massey remains active, with law enforcement urging the public to report any sightings or tips that could aid in the fugitives’ capture. The agencies involved have made it clear that no resource will be spared in bringing these individuals back into custody. This level of determination reflects the seriousness of the situation and the responsibility officials feel to protect the public.
At the same time, this escape has become a case study in the importance of rigorous oversight within correctional facilities. The fallout from this incident is likely to result in calls for sweeping changes—ranging from staffing levels and training to inmate classification and supervision protocols. There is no room for complacency when it comes to securing facilities that house violent criminals.
The public is advised to remain alert. Law enforcement emphasizes that even the smallest piece of information could play a critical role in resolving this case. Community involvement is not just encouraged—it’s essential.
In the wake of this jailbreak, the Orleans Justice Center and those overseeing its operations are under intense scrutiny. Rightfully so. The events of the past several days serve as a stark reminder that public safety begins with secure institutions—and when those systems break down, the consequences can be severe.