The search for escaped New Orleans jail inmates has entered its third day with no signs of slowing.
So far, authorities have recaptured three out of the ten men who broke out of the jail early Friday morning. However, seven inmates are still at large. Therefore, law enforcement agencies continue to widen their search area.
According to officials, the inmates escaped through a hole behind a toilet in the Orleans Parish Jail.
Before 1:00 a.m., they removed bolts and bars using items from their cells. Then, they slipped through the wall.
Next, they scaled down the exterior and ran across a freeway. Surveillance footage shows them sprinting across the highway.
Later that morning, a head count at 8:30 a.m. revealed the missing inmates. Surprisingly, the sheriff’s office had not noticed earlier.
As a result, the jail is under intense scrutiny. Sheriff Susan Hutson has blamed the escape on faulty locks and poor infrastructure.
Previously, she had requested funds to fix the outdated facility. Despite her warnings, no action had been taken.
Moreover, Hutson believes outside help assisted the inmates during the breakout. She says inmates could not have escaped without it.
Meanwhile, Governor Jeff Landry called the incident a massive failure. In fact, he labeled it the worst jailbreak in state history.
Consequently, he ordered a full audit of the sheriff’s office and the jail, promising results by the week’s end.
He also criticized delays in criminal trials, especially since nine of the escapees had awaited trial for years.
In addition, he blamed what he called a “progressive justice system” for overcrowding and slow prosecutions.
One escapee, Derrick Groves, was awaiting trial for a double murder. His escape terrified the victims’ families.
Out of fear, some family members went into hiding, unsure of whether Groves might seek revenge.
Shockingly, the sheriff’s office did not notify them after the breakout, according to family interviews.
Furthermore, the FBI increased its reward offer to $10,000 for each fugitive. Authorities believe someone may be helping the men.
If caught aiding the escapees, individuals will face serious criminal charges. The warning came directly from the FBI.
Despite efforts, police have not found strong leads. Officials still believe the men remain within Louisiana.
Currently, more than a dozen agencies are collaborating on the case. The operation covers both urban and rural areas.
New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick urged the public to remain cautious, yet avoid panic.
So far, recaptured inmates include Robert Moody, Dkenan Dennis, and Kendell Myles.
They now face additional charges for escaping custody. They were caught with help from public tips.
Eventually, the public may prove essential in finding the remaining escaped New Orleans jail inmates.
Officials say the fugitives are between 19 and 42 years old, facing charges from assault to murder.
Meanwhile, three jail staff have been suspended without pay pending the outcome of an internal investigation.
Because of the delay in detecting the escape, authorities have pledged new oversight and reforms.
Clearly, public safety now depends on recapturing the seven remaining escaped New Orleans jail inmates quickly.
For more updates, visit DC Brief.
