New Orleans Jail Escape: A maintenance worker at the Orleans Parish Justice Center in New Orleans has been arrested for allegedly facilitating the escape of 10 inmates, including several facing second-degree murder charges. Sterling Williams, 33, was booked Tuesday morning on 10 counts of principal to simple escape and one count of malfeasance in office.
Alleged Role in Jail Escape
According to Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, Williams turned off the water to a toilet, allowing inmates to rip it from the wall and escape through the opening. Sources claim Williams acted on the direction of inmate Antoine Massey, who allegedly threatened him.
The escapees reportedly used the opening to exit their cell, moved through a plumbing area, and fled the facility via a loading dock and perimeter wall.
New Orleans Jail Escape: Threats and Surveillance Footage
An arrest affidavit reveals Williams told investigators that Massey threatened to “shank him” if he didn’t cooperate. Surveillance footage shows Williams speaking with inmates Derrick Groves, Massey, and another unidentified individual prior to the escape.
Groves was recently convicted of second-degree murder and faces life in prison. Williams allegedly assisted Groves in trying to smuggle financial information to an outside contact.
Escape Details and Investigation
Authorities say the inmates began tampering with a cell door around 12:22 a.m. Friday and escaped shortly after 1 a.m. by removing a toilet and slipping through the wall. They exited through a loading dock and scaled a perimeter wall using blankets to avoid barbed wire.
The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office initially believed 11 inmates had escaped but later clarified one had been relocated. Officials confirmed the escapees were discovered missing at an 8:30 a.m. headcount, hours after the actual breakout.
Delayed Notification and Accountability
District Attorney Jason Williams criticized the delayed notification, stating the public and law enforcement were denied the opportunity to act quickly. He confirmed that his office, including staff and their families, are under threat and have taken protective measures.
Sheriff Susan Hutson accepted full responsibility for the breach. “This happened under my leadership, and it is my responsibility to ensure it is addressed with urgency and transparency,” she said.
Captures and Ongoing Manhunt
Three escapees were recaptured within hours of the jailbreak, including Robert Moody, Dkenan Dennis, and Kendall Myles. Corey Boyd and Gary C. Price were later arrested. However, Groves, Massey, Lenton Vanburen, and Jermaine Donald remain at large.
Calls for Justice and Continued Investigation
Murrill stated the investigation remains active and emphasized that anyone involved will be prosecuted to the fullest extent. She urged individuals with information, especially those who may have assisted the inmates, to come forward.
“This was an inside job,” said DA Jason Williams. “Violent offenders don’t break through concrete and rebar without help. And now the public faces the consequences.”
