Search Continues for Escaped Prisoners in New Orleans

Louisiana officials are still on the hunt for seven inmates who escaped from a New Orleans facility after a security lapse was reported last Friday.

On that morning, ten inmates were unaccounted for during the routine check at the Orleans Judicial Center, as announced by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. Law enforcement managed to recapture one of the escapees, Kendel Miles, 20, who was found hiding under a car in a hotel parking garage. He now faces additional charges related to his escape.

By late Friday, two more inmates, Robert Moody, 21, and Dkenan Dennis, 25, were apprehended. Meanwhile, Louisiana State Police indicated that the search for the remaining escapees is ongoing, following a series of moves to secure the captured inmates in “safe state facilities.”

Republican Governor Jeff Landry expressed a firm warning on Friday, stating, “We can run, but we can’t hide. We’ll hunt each of you.”

OCSO released images that illustrated the daring nature of the escapes, including footage showing inmates maneuvering through a pipe behind a toilet. The detainees broke through walls and utilized blankets to navigate around security measures before making their way to Interstate 10.

The escape reportedly happened just after midnight when inmates, who had been left unsupervised, took advantage of their surroundings to flee.

“At that time, no lieutenant was assigned to POD 1-D. The staff present were separated for a meal,” explained the OPSO regarding the circumstances leading to the escape.

Security failings have been confirmed, including malfunctioning doors and cameras, along with concerns regarding staffing shortages. There’s even speculation that some staff may have colluded in the escape.

Sheriff Susan Hutson, who is eyeing reelection, suggested that the situation might have been politically manipulated to hinder her prospects, asking rhetorically why such an incident occurred at this crucial time. “This is very suspicious. I know they had help,” she remarked, pointing to evident signs of assistance from outside.

Hutson declined to apologize for the lapse, instead emphasizing the need for public safety. “When I have enough information, I’m happy to address my shortcomings,” she said, highlighting ongoing efforts to secure necessary funding for the facility, asserting that improvements are crucial for the safety of both detainees and staff.

This incident unfolded as Hutson had just secured additional funding aimed at enhancing security for the very facility where the escape took place.