Authorities in Atlanta have successfully apprehended Derrick Groves, the last remaining fugitive from a mass escape at the Orleans Justice Center in New Orleans. Groves was captured following a tactical standoff at a residence in southwest Atlanta after being on the run for over four months.
Details of the Capture
The capture occurred after the U.S. Marshals Service received a tip from CrimeStoppers. This information proved crucial in locating Groves, who was wanted for serious charges, including second-degree murder.
The Escape Incident
Derrick Groves was one of ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center on May 16. The group managed to breach the facility by pulling open a faulty cell door, dismantling a toilet from its fixture, and crawling through a hole in the wall. After their escape, messages such as “Too easy LOL” and “We Innocent” were found scrawled near the escape route.
Timeline of Arrests
- May 16: Groves and nine others escape.
- May 16: Three inmates—Kendell Myles, Robert Moody, and Dkenan Dennis—captured shortly after.
- May 19: Gary Price is apprehended.
- May 20: Corey Boyd is taken into custody.
- May 26: Three additional inmates are arrested, including Jermaine Donald and Leo Tate in Texas and Lenton Vanburen in Baton Rouge.
- June: Antoine Massey is captured in New Orleans.
Involvement of Others
Investigations into the escape revealed that several individuals aided the fugitives. Among those arrested was Groves’ girlfriend, Darriana Burton. She reportedly exchanged messages and video calls with Groves during his incarceration. Authorities highlighted that she attempted to discuss the escape plans while ensuring her communication remained undetected.
Additionally, Sterling Williams, a maintenance worker at the jail, was arrested for allegedly cutting off the water supply to facilitate the inmates’ escape. However, Williams’ attorney has refuted claims of any wrongdoing, asserting the water was turned off due to a clog in a separate toilet.
Conclusion
The capture of Derrick Groves marks the conclusion of a significant manhunt for the last escaped inmate from New Orleans’ Orleans Justice Center. The incident highlights the challenges faced by law enforcement in managing incarcerated populations and the lengths some individuals will go to regain their freedom.
