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Authorities are intensifying their search for Antoine Massey, one of the last two escapees from a New Orleans jail, following a raid on a residence linked to him. The search comes after Massey posted a controversial video on Instagram defending his innocence and asking for help from public figures like Donald Trump and various prominent rappers. Meanwhile, local and federal law enforcement agencies are collaborating in what has become a complex manhunt for Massey and another inmate, Derrick Groves, who also remains at large.

Details of the Raid and the Chase for Massey

On a recent evening, law enforcement officials conducted a raid on a residence believed to be connected to Antoine Massey. Although authorities did not locate Massey during the operation, they discovered items belonging to him, prompting further investigative efforts. According to sources close to the investigation, police were tipped off by Massey’s relatives, who recognized the residence where the raid took place.

Massey, who is currently evading capture, has been declared one of the prime subjects in the ongoing manhunt. Law enforcement is working tirelessly to apprehend him, aided by local and federal partners. The Louisiana State Police (LSP) reported that they are employing both traditional policing methods and modern technology in their pursuit.

Furthermore, the authorities have set a bounty of $50,000 on Massey’s head, as well as that of Derrick Groves, another inmate who escaped alongside him. The reward is aimed at incentivizing citizens to provide credible information that might lead to their recapture.

The Instagram Video: Claims and Reactions

In a now-deleted Instagram video, Massey made a sensational claim regarding his escape from the Orleans Parish Jail. Contrary to reports suggesting he broke out, he asserted that he was actually let out. Speaking directly to the camera, Massey stated,

“They say that I broke out. I didn’t break out, I was let out.”

He continued to plead for help from various public figures, including rappers such as Meek Mill and Lil Wayne, as well as former President Donald Trump.

The video has drawn mixed reactions. Some viewers express sympathy for Massey, while others criticize his audacity in asking for assistance from high-profile individuals amid a serious criminal investigation. He also addressed accusations regarding a fellow inmate, denying claims that he threatened jail maintenance worker Sterling Williams, who was accused of helping with the escape.

Community and Law Enforcement Response

In response to the video and the ongoing search, Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson released a statement urging Massey to turn himself in. The sheriff emphasized,

“If the individual depicted in the video is indeed Antoine Massey, we strongly urge him to come forward and turn himself in.”

She further noted that cooperation with law enforcement could potentially aid in minimizing additional charges against him.

Local residents have expressed safety concerns due to the presence of two escapees still on the loose. Community action groups have started to engage with law enforcement to ensure that the public remains informed and vigilant during this tumultuous time. The collaboration aims to balance the need for transparency with community safety.

Background of the Escape: How it Happened

On May 16, 2025, a dramatic escape unfolded at the Orleans Parish Justice Facility. Ten inmates managed to break free by creating a hole behind a toilet in their cell, providing access to a narrow space leading outside the facility. Following their exit, they successfully navigated a treacherous barbed-wire fence, marking one of the most high-profile jailbreaks in recent Louisiana history.

Among the escapees, Derrick Groves has been noted as a particularly dangerous individual; he has a history as a four-time killer. Meanwhile, Massey had been awaiting trial for serious charges, including domestic abuse, theft of a vehicle, and a parole violation. The nature of these offenses has led law enforcement to be extremely proactive in locating him.

Current Status of the Manhunt and Legal Implications

As of now, eight out of the ten escapees have been recaptured following extensive efforts by the LSP and assisting agencies. The ongoing manhunt has attracted attention, both from local media and national agencies, underscoring the seriousness of the situation. The two remaining fugitives, Antoine Massey and Derrick Groves, continue to evade law enforcement, maintaining high stakes for their imminent capture.

The authorities are gearing up for potential legal ramifications for not only the escapees but also individuals who assisted them. Massey’s sister, Daishanae Massey, is among 14 individuals arrested for allegedly aiding in the jailbreak, further complicating the legal landscape. These arrests may prompt broader investigations into how the escape was facilitated.

Summary

The ongoing search for Antoine Massey and another inmate highlights significant failures within the correctional system and raises pressing concerns for community safety. As authorities continue their multi-agency efforts, the complexities surrounding the jailbreak—including connections to family members and community responses—further illustrate the intricate web of social issues at play. As the situation unfolds, it remains critical for law enforcement to ensure the safety and accountability of all involved.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Who is Antoine Massey?

Antoine Massey is one of the inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish Jail and is currently evading capture. He was awaiting trial on charges including domestic abuse and vehicle theft.

Question: What is the significance of the Instagram video?

In the video, Massey claimed that he was released from jail rather than escaping, pleading for help from various public figures. The video became a focal point for reactions from both law enforcement and the public.

Question: What charges are the escapees facing?

The escapees, including Massey and Groves, are facing serious charges related to their escape from jail, along with their initial criminal offenses, which include homicide and other violent crimes.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.

In a startling event, former Gateway Police Chief Grant Hardin escaped from a medium-security prison in Arkansas on May 25. Hardin, 56, is serving a lengthy sentence for heinous crimes including murder and rape. The FBI has announced a reward of $10,000 for information that could lead to his recapture, as authorities intensify their search in areas where Hardin is thought to have connections.

Details of the Escape

On the afternoon of May 25, Grant Hardin managed to escape from the North Central Unit, a medium-security prison located in Calico Rock, Arkansas. Hardin’s escape was discovered less than 30 minutes after it occurred, raising questions about the security protocols in place at the facility.

The Arkansas Department of Corrections (ADC) has stated that Hardin was last seen wearing an ADC-style uniform, although it was confirmed that the outfit was not an official uniform. The escape occurred via a sally port, enabling him to bypass security measures undetected. The incident has left local officials scrambling to re-evaluate prison safety and security.

According to the ADC, Hardin had a significant amount of knowledge about police practices given his former role as a police chief. This background may give him an advantage while evading authorities, making the manhunt even more complicated.

The Manhunt Begins

Following Hardin’s escape, a multi-agency manhunt was swiftly initiated. The FBI’s Little Rock Field Office is collaborating with the U.S. Marshals Service, Arkansas Department of Corrections, and Arkansas State Police in a coordinated effort to locate the fugitive. Local law enforcement agencies have been alerted, and searches have intensified in areas known to have connections to Hardin.

Hardin is thought to have ties to several areas including Garfield, Eureka Springs, Holiday Island, and Huntsville. Officials have established a perimeter around regions that could potentially harbor the fugitive, specifically focusing on Stone County, where numerous unoccupied cabins and structures could serve as hideouts.

Authorities have warned that he could still be nearby, emphasizing that just one vehicle could allow him to travel beyond the designated search area. The collaboration between various law enforcement agencies illustrates the seriousness with which authorities are treating this escape.

Hardin’s Criminal History

Grant Hardin has a tumultuous criminal record that includes convictions for murder and rape. In 2017, he pleaded guilty to the murder of James Appleton, a city water employee who was found fatally shot in his work truck. This heinous act sentenced Hardin to 30 years.

In a shocking twist, while he was being processed in prison, DNA linked him to a 1997 cold-case rape involving a teacher, further complicating his legal troubles. Hardin was sentenced for that crime in 2019, making his escape even more concerning given his violent past.

Given his experience as a police chief, which included involvement in law enforcement practices and understanding investigative procedures, Hardin’s escape raises alarms. Former FBI agent Rob D’Amico pointed out that his prior knowledge could significantly complicate efforts to locate him.

Authorities’ Response

In response to the escape, ADC Communications Director Rand Champion held a press conference to outline the situation and share updates on the ongoing search. Champion expressed confidence that officials have a solid understanding of the potential route Hardin may have taken upon fleeing and emphasized the importance of community support in locating him.

He also acknowledged the need for improved security measures and monitoring in light of this incident, hinting at possible missteps in the already strained prison system. The ADC is under scrutiny, with public inquiries regarding how such an escape was possible just days following another major incident involving multiple inmates escaping from a correctional facility in New Orleans.

Officials have continually pressed the public to provide any information that could lead to Hardin’s capture. The FBI has established a designated hotline (1-800-CALL-FBI) for tips and has offered a $10,000 reward for actionable insights to facilitate his recapture.

Public Safety Concerns

As authorities search for Hardin, concerns about public safety have escalated. With a criminal history involving serious offenses, state officials are urging residents to remain vigilant. Champion categorically stated that Hardin should be considered “a very dangerous individual,” warning that he could re-offend while on the run.

With the potential for Hardin to be armed and dangerous, the public is advised against approaching him. Community members are encouraged to report any sightings or relevant information to the authorities immediately. This manhunt could impact the surrounding communities in Stone County and beyond, where fear and uncertainty linger.

The urgency surrounding this manhunt has driven home the fragile nature of public safety and the importance of effective law enforcement agencies working in conjunction to mitigate risks.

Summary

The escape of former police chief Grant Hardin from prison has prompted a multi-faceted manhunt by various law enforcement agencies. His background, combined with the serious nature of his crimes, raises significant public safety concerns. The ongoing collaboration between state and federal authorities underscores the urgency of re-establishing safety within the community. As the investigation unfolds, it remains crucial for local residents to stay informed and actively participate in the search efforts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why is the reward for Hardin’s capture so high?

The reward of $10,000 reflects the seriousness of Hardin’s escape and the potential threat he poses to public safety due to his violent criminal history.

Question: What should residents do if they see Hardin?

Residents should avoid approaching Hardin and instead report any sightings immediately to the authorities to ensure their safety.

Question: How did Hardin escape from the prison?

Hardin escaped through a sally port during the afternoon, and the escape was recognized by prison officials shortly thereafter, prompting a swift response.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.

In a troubling series of events, a repeat escapee from Louisiana has made headlines as authorities scramble to manage two significant jailbreaks. On Thursday, Tra’Von Johnson, a 19-year-old awaiting trial for a deadly home invasion, escaped from a Tangipahoa Parish jail, aided by another inmate. This escape coincides with an ongoing manhunt for 10 inmates who broke out of the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility, creating mounting pressure on law enforcement across multiple jurisdictions.

The Escape of Tra’Von Johnson

On Thursday afternoon, shortly after 4:30 PM, Tra’Von Johnson made a daring escape from a Tangipahoa Parish jail. The 19-year-old, who was already under serious legal scrutiny for involvement in a fatal home invasion that occurred in 2022, was assisted by another inmate who helped lift him over the perimeter fence. This wasn’t the first time Johnson had eluded capture; he famously escaped from the same facility last May, raising serious questions about the security measures in place.

The incident occurred just days following a massive escape from the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility, where 10 inmates managed to break free. Johnson’s escape initially went unnoticed, with authorities learning of his absence only after a public tip at around 10 PM that night. By then, the sheriff’s office faced growing scrutiny over its failure to monitor inmates effectively.

Law Enforcement’s Response to the Escape

Following Johnson’s escape, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) quickly mobilized, seeking assistance from local and federal law enforcement agencies. Law officials acted swiftly, aiming to locate Johnson while simultaneously notifying known victims and family members of the situation. This coordinated response highlights the interconnected challenges law enforcement faces when multiple escapees are on the run, particularly in areas where jurisdictions overlap.

Sheriff’s officials disclosed that while they conducted their search, Johnson was confirmed to be the only missing inmate from the facility. Investigating the events surrounding his escape took precedence, as efforts to beef up safety protocols came under serious scrutiny.

The Ongoing Manhunt in Orleans Parish

In the midst of Johnson’s escape, the ongoing manhunt for ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility intensified. This mass escape, which occurred on May 16, led to a significant law enforcement mobilization, with an estimated 200 agents from various state and federal agencies involved in the search.

Reports indicate that the Orleans escapees employed brazen tactics, including dismantling a toilet in their cell to create a hole in the wall, allowing them to traverse through unguarded areas and escape over a fence. The authorities were reportedly unaware of the escape for hours, raising serious concerns about the competency and operational oversight within the facility.

As the manhunt continues, questions about the security measures in place at Orleans Parish have sparked concerns in the community, with officials receiving criticism from local leaders and the district attorney.

Implications of the Escape

The dual incidents of escape raise critical concerns regarding the safety and effectiveness of the criminal justice system in Louisiana. With Johnson’s recent breach, the potential for further violence looms, as he is already accused of serious offenses that endanger public safety. The situation has engendered significant media coverage and debates around operational standards in local jails.

The mounting criticisms have led to calls for resignations and reviews of policies governing incarceration and inmate management. Many are questioning whether current protocols are sufficient to prevent similar incidents in the future, especially in light of recent escape events.

Community Reactions and Concerns

In the wake of these escapes, community responses have ranged from fear to anger. Many residents express concern for their safety, particularly knowing that individuals accused of severe crimes are at large. This sentiment has manifested in discussions about public safety and the efficiency of law enforcement in protecting residents.

Local leaders have begun to voice their dissatisfaction with the management of the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, leading to demands for thorough investigations and accountability. A palpable tension exists as community members rally for better security measures and transparent responses from law enforcement agencies.

Summary

The escape of Tra’Von Johnson, coupled with the ongoing manhunt for the Orleans Parish escapees, highlights significant challenges facing the criminal justice system in Louisiana. The incidents underscore urgent questions regarding prison security, law enforcement readiness, and community safety. As residents demand accountability and better measures to prevent similar events in the future, authorities must respond effectively to restore public trust.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Why was Tra’Von Johnson in jail?

Tra’Von Johnson was awaiting trial for his involvement in a deadly home invasion that occurred in 2022.

Question: How did Johnson escape the jail?

Johnson escaped with the help of another inmate, who assisted him in climbing over the perimeter fence.

Question: What are the authorities doing to locate the missing inmates?

Authorities have mobilized local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies to locate the missing inmates, conducting searches and communicating with the public for tips.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.

In a significant development surrounding the recent escape from the Orleans Parish Jail, the aunt of Derrick Groves, one of the escapees, has urged him to surrender for his own safety. Groves, who previously received life sentences for two murder convictions stemming from incidents on Mardi Gras Day 2024, escaped custody on May 16 along with nine other inmates. As authorities continue an aggressive manhunt, questions about jail staffing and security protocols are emerging, with officials indicating potential legal repercussions for those involved in the jailbreak.

Background of Derrick Groves’ Crimes

Derrick Groves is well-known in the New Orleans area, primarily due to his violent criminal history. In October 2024, a jury found him guilty of two counts of second-degree murder after he killed two men during the Mardi Gras festivities. The horrendous nature of these murders sent shockwaves through the community, leading to his conviction and subsequent sentencing to life imprisonment. In addition, Groves later pleaded guilty to two other manslaughter charges, indicating a trend of violent behavior that has contributed to his extensive legal troubles. His profile as a violent offender has only heightened concerns regarding his recent escape, pushing both law enforcement and local residents to prioritize safety.

The Escape Incident

On May 16, 2025, Derrick Groves, along with nine other inmates, escaped from the Orleans Justice Center. The escape raised immediate security concerns and ignited a major manhunt, drawing attention from several law enforcement agencies, including the FBI and U.S. Marshals. At the time of the escape, the jail was operating at only 60% staffing capacity, with 36 correctional officers monitoring over 1,400 inmates, a situation that has led many to question the adequacy of security protocols in place. During the chaos surrounding the escape, five of the ten inmates have since been recaptured, leaving five still at large. Each of these escapees has a history of violent offenses, increasing public anxiety as the search intensifies.

Family’s Concerns and Appeals

The family of Derrick Groves has expressed deep concern for his safety since his escape. His aunt, Jasmine Groves, has made a public appeal for him to return voluntarily, emphasizing that jail is a dangerous place. Jasmine Groves highlighted that her nephew had been stabbed three times while in custody, a claim that raises significant alarms regarding inmate treatment and safety at the Orleans Parish jail. In various interviews, Jasmine has articulated her distress, stating,

“I’m praying to the Lord that he is protected, and I pray that they don’t try to kill him.”

She believes the circumstances surrounding Groves’ move to the Orleans Justice Center have further endangered his life and describes feeling more secure when he was housed at the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, noting that the conditions there seemed to be better managed.

Law Enforcement’s Response

Following the escape, local authorities have ramped up their efforts to locate the missing inmates. Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson acknowledged the lapse in security, stating that immediate actions have been taken, including suspensions and arrests, as part of an ongoing investigation into how the escape occurred. Sheriff Hutson expressed accountability during a recent City Council meeting, temporarily suspending her re-election campaign to focus solely on public safety and the recovery of the escapees. Additionally, three individuals have been charged with aiding the inmates, including a jail employee, further complicating the situation by exposing systemic issues within the correctional facility. The Sheriff’s Office, along with local law enforcement, has committed over 200 officers to the ongoing search operations, underscoring the urgency of recapturing these fugitives before they can cause harm.

Future Implications and Community Impact

The escape from the Orleans Parish jail has significant implications for public safety and trust in local law enforcement. As five of the escapees remain at large, community members are unsettled, questioning the adequacy of security measures implemented by the jail. The staffing shortage exacerbates fears, as the disproportionate ratio of inmates to guards suggests a potential for more breaches in security. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams echoed these sentiments when he expressed unease about the escape, reinforcing the community’s anxieties surrounding safety. With the situation unfolding, the Sheriff’s office faces mounting pressure to improve conditions at the facility, restore public confidence, and prevent future incidents.

Summary

The escape of Derrick Groves and nine other inmates from the Orleans Parish Jail not only raises critical concerns over jail security but also emphasizes the need for a comprehensive review of staffing practices. As families voice their concerns and law enforcement ramps up efforts to recapture the escapees, the incident serves as a wake-up call regarding the challenges facing the correctional system. The ongoing manhunt, community impact, and official responses highlight the imperative for transparency, reform, and accountability within this crucial public safety domain.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: What led to Derrick Groves’ previous convictions?

Derrick Groves was convicted of two counts of second-degree murder and later pleaded guilty to manslaughter in separate incidents involving violence during Mardi Gras festivities.

Question: How many escapees are still at large following the jailbreak?

As of the latest updates, five out of the ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish Jail are still unaccounted for.

Question: What measures are law enforcement taking to recapture the escaped inmates?

Law enforcement agencies, including local police, the FBI, and U.S. Marshals, are actively involved in the search, deploying over 200 officers to locate and apprehend the escapees.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.

Authorities have successfully recaptured one of the ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility in New Orleans last week. Corey Boyd, aged 19, was apprehended shortly after a brief sighting hours following the jailbreak. While Boyd faces serious charges related to a fatal car burglary, the investigation continues as seven other inmates remain at large, raising significant concerns around security and oversight in the facility.

Overview of the Escape Incident

On a tense Friday evening, ten inmates managed to escape from the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility in New Orleans. The jailbreak was detailed in surveillance footage that captured the inmates squeezing through a concealed hole behind a toilet before scaling a barbed wire fence surrounding the facility. Video evidence indicates they then fled across the highway and into a nearby neighborhood, where they changed clothes to evade arrest. This alarming escape has prompted urgent investigations and interventions from law enforcement agencies.

The facility has faced criticism due to concerns about the safety measures in place and how an escape of this magnitude could occur. The Louisiana State Police have opened an inquiry into the circumstances surrounding the jailbreak and have stressed the need for improved procedures to prevent such incidents in the future.

Capture of Corey Boyd

Among the escapees, Corey Boyd is the fifth individual to be recaptured. The Louisiana State Police announced that Boyd was tracked down shortly after the incident, thanks to immediate efforts by law enforcement. Reports indicate that he was apprehended in New Orleans, where he had been briefly spotted after the jailbreak attempt.

Boyd was originally incarcerated on multiple serious charges, including second-degree murder—stemming from the death of Brandon Fees during a car burglary—and attempted murder, aggravated battery, and threatening a public official. Following his recapture, state police confirmed that Boyd will be transferred to a secure facility outside the area, and he is expected to face charges related to his escape. The authorities continue to probe into how an inmate with such a violent background managed to evade custody.

Status of Remaining Inmates

Despite the recapture of Boyd, a total of seven inmates remain on the run, each with various criminal backgrounds that heighten community concerns. These fugitives include:

• Lenton J. Vanburen Jr., 26: Facing charges of illegal carrying of weapons, possession of a firearm by a felon, obstruction of justice, and introducing contraband in prison.
• Jermaine Donald, 42: Accused of second-degree murder, aggravated battery, possession of a firearm by a felon, and obstruction of justice.
• Antoine Massey, 32: Facing charges linked to domestic abuse, motor vehicle theft, and parole violations.
• Derrick Groves, 27: Charged with attempted second-degree murder and battery against a corrections employee, among other serious offenses.
• Leo O. Tate Sr., 31: Faces charges for armed burglary, firearm offenses, and multiple drug-related counts.

Authorities continue to search for these fugitives, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities or sightings. The situation remains fluid as law enforcement intensifies efforts to ensure the remaining escapees are captured promptly.

Involvement of Jail Staff

In a related development, questions regarding the role of jail staff in the escape have emerged. Sterling Williams, a maintenance worker at the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, was arrested shortly after the jailbreak. He faces serious charges including 10 counts of principal to simple escape and malfeasance in office. Williams reportedly stated that he was coerced into assisting the escape due to an inmate’s threat against him.

This revelation has sparked discussions regarding staff adequacy and training in prison facilities, as incidents like this could indicate deeper systemic issues regarding inmate management and employee integrity. The inquiry into staff involvement is ongoing, as authorities aim to determine the full scope of complicity in the jailbreak.

Community Concerns and Response

The escape has raised alarms across the New Orleans community, with residents expressing fears over public safety. Many are worried about the implications of having multiple armed and dangerous individuals at large. Local officials have organized community meetings aimed at addressing public concerns and providing a platform for discussing safety measures.

The sheriff’s office has emphasized ongoing efforts to locate the escaped inmates and reassured the public that their safety is their primary concern. Additionally, law enforcement agencies have increased patrols in neighborhoods adjacent to the jail to bolster security and deter any potential crimes that might be committed by the escapees.

Community leaders are also highlighting the importance of assessing the conditions that led to this escape and advocating for reforms to prevent future incidents, including updates to safety protocols and enhanced training for correctional officers.

Summary

The recent jailbreak from Orleans Parish Correctional Facility raised significant questions about security measures and staff integrity. With the recapture of Corey Boyd and ongoing searches for the remaining escapees, the incident has sparked alarm in the community, prompting officials to implement additional safety measures. The involvement of staff in the escape points to potential systemic issues within the facility, underscoring the need for reforms to prevent future occurrences.

Frequently Asked Questions

Question: Who is Corey Boyd?

Corey Boyd is a 19-year-old inmate who was recaptured after being part of a mass jailbreak from the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility. He faces serious charges, including second-degree murder.

Question: How did the inmates escape from the jail?

The inmates escaped by crawling through a hole hidden behind a toilet, scaling a barbed wire fence, and fleeing into a nearby neighborhood where they changed clothes.

Question: What measures are being taken to enhance community safety?

Authorities have increased patrols in affected neighborhoods, organized community meetings to address concerns, and are actively searching for the remaining escaped inmates.

©2025 News Journos. All rights reserved.