Derrick Groves, the final escapee from a notorious New Orleans jailbreak, has been apprehended. Captured on a Wednesday in Atlanta, Groves was discovered in a crawl space at a residence after evading authorities for months. His arrest follows the escape of ten inmates from the Orleans Parish Justice Center on May 16.
Derrick Groves’ Escape and Arrest
On May 16, 2023, Groves and nine others made a daring escape from the Orleans Parish Justice Center. They broke through a hole in a wall, scaled a fence, and crossed an interstate. During a morning headcount, the authorities realized the inmates were missing, with some leaving behind taunting messages in the bathroom, including “Too easy LoL.”
Three of the escapees were recaptured on the same day. By the end of May, all but two had been arrested. Antoine Massey was the ninth inmate taken into custody six weeks post-escape, leaving Groves as the last fugitive. Initially convicted for murder, he had been awaiting sentencing for multiple charges.
Capture in Atlanta
In early October, Louisiana authorities received tips that Groves might be in Atlanta. Following leads, a task force executed warrants at a home. With the assistance of U.S. marshals and a SWAT team, they confronted Groves, resulting in a brief standoff. He was found when K-9 units searched the crawl space of the house.
A video showing Groves being escorted into a police cruiser surfaced, capturing a moment where he blows a kiss to the camera. Officials did not disclose how long he had been at the location, but confirmed that no one else was present during his arrest.
Legal Consequences Ahead
Groves faces imminent extradition to Louisiana, where he will be arraigned. He has been charged with simple escape alongside his previous convictions. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill indicated a potential upgrade to aggravated escape due to evidence found at the Atlanta residence.
In addition, Groves may face charges in Georgia and federal prosecution. Murrill emphasized the extensive manhunt cost and the ongoing fear experienced by victims connected to Groves’ past crimes. “It’s very unsettling to have someone out like this,” she stated.
Community Impact and Accomplices
Murrill is pursuing charges against individuals who aided Groves during his time on the run. Over a dozen accomplices have been arrested, including a former jail employee and Groves’ girlfriend, who allegedly facilitated communication before the escape. This raises questions about systemic failures within the New Orleans justice system.
Following the jailbreak, Governor Jeff Landry expressed gratitude towards law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of ensuring criminals are returned to custody. He stated on social media, “You picked the wrong State,” reiterating the need for continuous improvements in public safety and corrections.
In summary, Groves’ capture ends a lengthy search and highlights significant issues within the justice system, sparking discussions on accountability and resource allocation for correctional facilities.
