Captured: Inmate Derrick Groves Returns to Custody Post New Orleans Escape

Law enforcement officials successfully recaptured Derrick Groves, the final inmate eluding capture following a significant jailbreak in New Orleans. This event unfolded over several months and culminated in Groves’ arrest in Atlanta, Georgia.

Details of Derrick Groves’ Capture

On Wednesday, Groves was discovered hiding in a crawl space under a home. The authorities executed a warrant and deployed a SWAT team to search the property thoroughly. Despite difficulties in locating him, a police dog eventually found Groves after gas was deployed multiple times into the residence.

Video footage shows Groves, who was shirtless and shod in shackles, grinning at the camera as police escorted him away. Following his capture, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry expressed gratitude to law enforcement for bringing all ten escapees, including Groves, back into custody.

Background of the Jailbreak

Groves, 28, had a violent criminal history and was previously convicted of second-degree murder. His escape, along with nine others, took place on May 16 and was one of the largest jailbreaks witnessed in recent U.S. history. The inmates broke free by exploiting a faulty cell door and a hole behind a toilet, allowing them to scale a barbed-wire fence and flee undiscovered for hours.

Rewards and Assistance

Authorities offered a reward of $50,000 for information leading to Groves’ capture. Several individuals may face charges for assisting him during his time on the run. A tip directed investigators to his location through New Orleans Crimestoppers.

Implications of the Escape

• Groves was previously facing a life sentence without parole.
• His capture is significant as he had the most violent history among the escapees.
• Following the jailbreak, multiple arrests were made for individuals suspected of aiding the fugitives.

According to Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, Groves has a hearing scheduled for extradition. His attorney stated he had not yet spoken with his client but mentioned Groves was apprehended while hiding in Atlanta.

Community and Family Response

Upon learning of her son’s capture, Groves’ mother expressed her relief, although she noted the distress her family had experienced during his time as a fugitive. She had urged him to turn himself in, expressing concern for both him and their family’s situation.

As law enforcement continues to address the issues surrounding the jailbreak, officials emphasize the need for thorough investigations into potential inside assistance that may have facilitated the escape. All ten inmates are now facing additional charges related to their escape, which could add up to five years to their sentences.

Derrick Groves has been booked into the Fulton County Jail, facing charges as a fugitive from justice.