Manhunt continues for 7 inmates who escaped from New Orleans jail

Seven of the 10 inmates who audaciously escaped from New Orleans jail on Friday are still on the loose, while three have been captured, as authorities say they were helped by someone on the inside. The escapees include suspects charged with serious crimes such as murder, domestic abuse, and burglary. Law enforcement officials have stated that they have strong and active leads on the fugitives, and the public has been urged to remain vigilant and report any tips.

The seven fugitives who remain at large are Jermaine Donald, Antoine Massey, Leo Tate, Lenton Vanburen, Derrick Groves, Gary Price, and Corey Boyd. These individuals are considered dangerous, and authorities are working tirelessly to locate and apprehend them. The FBI has surged resources and is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to the arrest of any of the escapees.

Approximately 200 officers are involved in the search for the fugitives, with state and federal agencies collaborating on the effort. Authorities have indicated that some of the escapees may have left the city or even the state of Louisiana. The public has been asked to remain calm but alert and report any suspicious activity.

Three of the escaped inmates have been captured, including Kendall Myles, Robert Moody, and Dkenan Dennis. Myles was apprehended after a brief foot chase through the French Quarter, Moody was found in New Orleans thanks to a Crimestoppers tip, and Dennis was located near the Chef Menteur Highway. Louisiana State Police released images of the captured fugitives being led into a helicopter on Friday night.

Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson expressed doubt that the inmates could have escaped without assistance from someone on the inside. Attorney General Liz Murrill has called for a full investigation into the incident and has placed three employees on suspension pending the outcome of the investigation.

The escape was captured on video, showing the inmates breaking out of a cell, scaling a fence, and running across an interstate to a nearby neighborhood where they changed clothes. It was revealed that a female civilian employee monitoring the pod had stepped away at the time of the escape. The video feed was not actively monitored, but it was reviewed after the inmates were discovered missing hours later.

The gaping hole used by the escapees, which appeared to have been hidden behind a toilet, was in a first-floor jail cell. Inmates had left messages near the hole, indicating that the escape was “too easy.” It remains unclear whether the opening was created by the inmates or if it was already present. Security issues at the jail, including faulty cell doors and low staffing levels, have been identified as contributing factors to the escape.

The three captured inmates are facing various charges, including armed robbery, battery, and illegal possession of weapons. The fugitives still at large are wanted for crimes ranging from murder to domestic abuse and burglary. The search for these individuals continues, with law enforcement officials urging the public to report any information that may lead to their capture.