A major security breach at the Orleans Parish jail in New Orleans has sparked a sweeping manhunt after ten inmates escaped in the early hours of Friday morning. Authorities say the prisoners exploited a concealed hole behind a toilet — a flaw that went unnoticed for over eight hours.
The escape, which began around 12:22 a.m., involved the inmates tampering with a cell door to gain access to an adjacent cell. From there, they slipped through the hidden wall opening. After breaching the interior, the group made their way to a loading dock, scaled a barbed-wire fence using improvised rope made of blankets, and disappeared into the darkness near nearby railroad tracks and highways.
As of now, eight of the ten inmates remain at large. Among them are four individuals charged with second-degree murder: Corey Boyd, Lenton Vanburen, Jermaine Donald, and Derrick Groves.
Authorities have confirmed the capture of three escapees. Kendell Myles, who was awaiting trial for attempted second-degree murder, was found hiding beneath a vehicle in a French Quarter hotel parking garage. Robert Moody was also apprehended later in the day, though officials have not disclosed details of his capture. A third inmate, Dkenan Dennis, was caught near Chef Menteur Highway.
Initial confusion surrounded the number of escapees, with early reports citing 11 individuals. Officials later clarified that one inmate had been moved prior to the breakout and was not involved.
Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson revealed that the escape went undetected until the 8:30 a.m. headcount, more than eight hours after the inmates had fled. The New Orleans Police Department was notified around 10:30 a.m., and local, state, and federal agencies have since joined the manhunt.
Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick stated that while progress has been made, much work remains. An internal investigation is now underway to determine whether the escape resulted from staff negligence or possible inside assistance.
Residents have been urged to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity as the search for the remaining fugitives intensifies.