Escaped Inmates Manhunt Intensifies as Reward Rises to $50,000 Each
NEW ORLEANS — The search for Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves, the last two of ten inmates who escaped the Orleans Justice Center on May 16, has reached a critical stage as authorities raise the reward to $50,000 per fugitive for information leading to their arrest.
The escape, which exploited poor jail infrastructure and an employee oversight, has resulted in a massive multi-agency manhunt involving the Louisiana State Police, FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals, and New Orleans Police Department. Eight of the ten escapees have been recaptured, but Massey and Groves remain at large nearly two weeks after the breakout.
Law enforcement officials revealed that the fugitives received assistance from at least 15 people, including friends, family, and even a jail plumber who allegedly helped facilitate the escape under threat from Massey. Court records also indicate that some accomplices used internet phone services to avoid detection, and one of Massey’s associates, previously a victim of his abuse, misled authorities about his whereabouts.
The reward, now totaling $50,000 per inmate, is being offered by Crimestoppers of Greater New Orleans, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Authorities have received over 700 tips, with some leading to rapid arrests, but emphasize the need for continued public assistance as the fugitives may have crossed state lines.
Family members of the escapees have publicly urged them to surrender, while police maintain that the search is closing in. "We're confident that we are closing in on the remaining two escapees, and that we should have them in custody soon," said Louisiana State Police Superintendent Col. Robert Hodges.
Massey, described as a serial escape artist with prior escapes on his record, was awaiting trial for domestic abuse and other charges, while Groves, a convicted double murderer, was scheduled for sentencing in July. Both are considered dangerous, and the public is urged to report any information that could lead to their capture.