Last New Orleans jail escapee captured after months of evasion
- Derrick Groves was apprehended in Atlanta after being on the run for nearly five months as the final escapee from a New Orleans jail.
- His capture followed a coordinated effort by multiple law enforcement agencies and was made possible due to a tip leading to a crawl space where he was hiding.
- Authorities expressed relief at his capture, noting the public safety concerns surrounding his violent past and the eventual legal proceedings he will face.
In the United States, the manhunt for Derrick Groves, the last of ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center in New Orleans, came to an end recently when he was found hiding in a crawl space within a residence in Atlanta. This capture followed a detailed investigation involving multiple law enforcement agencies, including the U.S. Marshals Service and the FBI, after a tip directed them to the location where Groves had sought refuge. He had been evading authorities since May 16, 2025, when he, along with others, carried out a brazen jailbreak by removing a toilet and crawling through the resulting hole to freedom. Groves, 28, was reported to have been apprehended after a brief standoff with police, which included the deployment of tear gas into the house, ultimately leading to his arrest without major incidents. During the lengthy escape period, law enforcement captured the other nine inmates within weeks of the escape, with many recaptures occurring in Louisiana, while Groves remained elusive. His capture prompted significant relief among the public and officials alike, who were concerned about his violent criminal history and the implications of his escape. The escape had raised serious questions about the security and structure of the Orleans Parish facility, which has been criticized for its design flaws. As part of the investigation, law enforcement is scrutinizing connections between Groves and individuals who may have assisted him during his time on the run. One such individual identified is Darriana Burton, who allegedly had a relationship with Groves during his incarceration and is accused of aiding in the escape. In court, Groves is expected to face serious charges for his role in the jailbreak in addition to his prior sentencing for manslaughter. Given the violent nature of his past crimes and the circumstances surrounding his escape, authorities are likely to impose severe penalties. This manhunt culminated with Groves’ arrest, ensuring that all escapees from the May incident are now back in custody and reigniting discussions about the need for improvements in jail security measures.