The five-month escape of Derrick Groves, the last of ten inmates who broke free from a New Orleans jail, has concluded with his capture. Authorities apprehended Groves in Atlanta, Georgia, on a Wednesday afternoon after receiving a critical tip.
Derrick Groves Arrested After Lengthy Manhunt
The U.S. Marshals Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force, along with the Atlanta Police Department SWAT team, carried out the operation. The arrest took place shortly after 2 p.m. ET, following a tip received from Crime Stoppers Greater New Orleans. Deputy U.S. Marshal Brian Fair confirmed that the tip directed investigators to an Atlanta residence.
Background of the Escape
Derrick Groves was convicted for a double murder in 2018. He was part of a jailbreak on May 16, during which inmates removed a jail cell door and a toilet from an empty cell, enabling them to enter a crawl space and scale a fence to escape. This incident raised serious concerns regarding security flaws in the Orleans Parish Justice Center.
- Jailbreak Date: May 16, 2023
- Number of Escapees: 10
- Criminal Charges: Convicted of double murder
After Groves’ escape, law enforcement officials across multiple jurisdictions collaborated to recapture him. Fair noted that multiple tips were received over the summer as the manhunt continued.
Capture Details
Law enforcement initially thought the Atlanta home was empty. Investigators used gas to determine Groves’ presence before finding him hiding in a crawl space, suggesting he had taken measures to conceal himself effectively. Officials indicated that he seemed prepared for a prolonged absence.
- Location of Capture: Atlanta, Georgia
- Time of Arrest: Shortly after 2 p.m. ET
- Agencies Involved: U.S. Marshals, Atlanta Police, Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, FBI, Louisiana State Police
After his arrest, Derrick Groves faced charges as a fugitive in Fulton County, Georgia. Further inquiries are underway regarding his escape route from New Orleans to Atlanta and potential assistance he may have received.
Conclusion
With Groves back in custody, all ten escapees have now been captured. Authorities expressed relief that no injuries occurred during the operation. The case drew significant media attention, which officials believe played a crucial role in keeping Groves on the run.
