Two more arrested for allegedly helping New Orleans jailbreak fugitives
Two individuals have been arrested in connection with the recent jailbreak in New Orleans, as reported by the Louisiana State Police (LSP). Cortnie Harris, 32, from New Orleans, and Corvanntay Baptiste, 38, from Slidell, have been charged with one felony count each of accessory after the fact. They were allegedly assisting the fugitives who escaped from the jail.
According to the LSP, the initial investigation revealed that Cortnie Harris was in contact with an escapee via phone before the escape. Investigators also found that Harris had transported two escapees to multiple locations in New Orleans. On the other hand, Corvanntay Baptiste was in contact with escapee Corey Boyd and helped facilitate getting him food while he was hiding in a residence.
This news follows the arrest of Sterling Williams, a 33-year-old maintenance worker at the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, who was charged with principal to simple escape and malfeasance in office for allegedly turning off the water in the cell from which the escapees fled. Williams claimed in an arrest affidavit that he was coerced into aiding the escapees under threat of stabbing.
On Tuesday night, Corey Boyd, one of the escapees, was captured by the Louisiana State Police. However, five other inmates are still on the run. They are identified as Lenton J. Vanburen Jr., Jermaine Donald, Antoine Massey, Derrick Groves, and Leo O. Tate Sr. These individuals face a range of charges including illegal carrying of weapons, second-degree murder, aggravated battery, and theft.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill stated on “Fox & Friends” that she believes the remaining escapees are likely still in New Orleans. She noted that notifying neighboring state officials was important but that the individuals were probably staying close to home unless they had significant resources elsewhere.
The ongoing investigation into the jailbreak continues, and law enforcement officials are working diligently to locate the remaining escapees. This is a developing story, and updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
