Manhunt Ends with Capture of Eight Escapees in Louisiana

In a swift turn of events, all eight inmates who escaped from the Riverbend Detention Center in East Carroll Parish have been apprehended less than a day after their breakout, concluding the Louisiana State Police’s extensive manhunt.

Governor Jeff Landry expressed gratitude on social media, saying, “Thank you to the @LAStatePolice and local law enforcement for the quick apprehension of these 8 escapees. Justice will be served.”

These inmates were not just ordinary detainees; court records show they were facing serious charges, including murder and aggravated assault.

The captured individuals include: Destin Brogan (22), Kolin Loney (21), Krisean Salinas (21), Kevin Slaughter (25), Kopelon Vicknair (19), Hugo Molina (27), Trenton Taplin (29), and Savion Wheeler (31).

In response to the escape, a manhunt was launched on Friday, involving multiple agencies united in the effort to locate the individuals quickly.

Attorney General Liz Murrill stated, “I have been in contact with East Carroll Parish Sheriff Wydette Williams and Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association President Kevin Cobb, and have offered the full assistance of my office, including the Fugitive Apprehension Unit.”

Leading the manhunt, Louisiana State Police worked alongside local sheriffs’ offices and federal agents. Although searches were initially concentrated in rural areas around Lake Providence, plans for a statewide search were also in place.

Authorities issued a warning advising the public to avoid approaching the escapees and to report any sightings immediately. Residents were urged to lock their vehicles and homes while keeping an eye out for unusual activity.

The quick response from law enforcement led to the recapture of three of the prisoners only hours after the escape was reported. However, the remaining five proved harder to catch due to challenging terrain and possibly premeditated escape plans.

This incident is part of a troubling trend of jailbreaks in Louisiana, highlighting concerns over aging facilities, understaffing, and security flaws that have been a persistent source of criticism in the state’s prison system.

Overall, the situation underscores the vulnerabilities present in Louisiana’s correctional facilities, including issues related to perimeter security and delayed counts.