New Orleans Prison Escape Update

Seven of the ten prisoners who escaped from a New Orleans prison last Friday are still on the run, while three have been recaptured. Authorities have indicated that someone inside may have assisted in their escape.

The fugitives include individuals facing serious charges like murder, domestic violence, and robbery. Law enforcement is reportedly following strong leads, with tips from the community pouring in.

Officials have noted that some of the escapees may have left not just the city, but the state as well. They urge the public to stay alert and report any information. The FBI has increased its resources for the search and is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for tips leading to arrests.

Approximately 200 officers from various state and federal agencies are involved in the manhunt. Those found aiding the fugitives may face charges of complicity.

Among the fugitives still at large are Jermaine Donald (42), Antoine Massey (33), Leotate (31), Renton Vanbren (27), Derrick Groves (27), Gary Price (21), and Cory Boyd (19).

One of the recaptured inmates, Kendall Miles (20), was caught shortly after the escape. He had a history of previous escapes from juvenile detention centers.

By Friday evening, two others had also been apprehended, including Robert Moody (21), who was found in New Orleans. The Louisiana Attorney General announced his capture through a social media post.

The Orleans Parish Sheriff, Susan Hutson, suggested that inmates likely could not have escaped without assistance.

Attorney General Liz Maril expressed frustration, stating, “The ball was clearly dropped and there’s no excuse.” She has called for a thorough investigation into the incident.

Three prison staff members are currently on administrative leave as the investigation unfolds.

Video footage showed the ten inmates escaping from the Orleans Parish Judicial Center. They reportedly broke through a fence, used blankets to shield themselves from barbed wire, and fled to a neighboring area to change clothes.

Sadly, it appears that the surveillance footage was not monitored in real-time. Authorities reviewed it only after realizing the prisoners were missing hours later.

Some security shortcomings identified include malfunctioning cell doors and understaffing issues. At the time of the escape, the prison was operating at only 60% capacity, with four supervisors overseeing 1,400 inmates.

It took until 8:30 a.m. on Friday for officials to confirm the escape.

The three captured prisoners and their charges are as follows:

• Dkenan Dennis, 24, faced multiple charges including armed robbery and possession of stolen firearms.
• Robert L. Moody, 21, has been charged with aggravated battery and illegal possession of firearms.
• Kendall Miles, 20, is implicated in various serious offenses including second-degree murder and armed robbery.

The fugitives still at large include:

• Gary C. Price, 21, charged with attempted murder and multiple counts of battery.
• Cory E. Boyd, 19, facing charges of attempted murder and obstruction of justice.
• Renton J. Vanbullen Jr., 26, charged with illegal possession of weapons and introducing contraband into prisons.
• Jermaine Donald, 42, facing charges including murder and obstruction of justice.
• Antoine Massey, 32, charged with domestic violence, car theft, and parole violations.
• Derrick Groves, 27, facing several counts related to attempted murder and assaulting correctional staff.
• Leo O. Tate Sr., 31, charged with robbery and possession of firearms.