فاس نيوز ميديا جريدة الكترونية جهوية تعنى بشؤون و أخبار جهة فاس مكناس – متجددة على مدار الساعة
New Orleans: The notorious “Orleans Justice Center” prison in New Orleans witnessed a dramatic mass escape as 10 dangerous inmates managed to flee through a hole behind a toilet in one of their cells, exploiting the absence of their sole supervising guard. The escaping group left behind a sarcastic message scrawled on the wall: “Too easy LOL,” with an arrow pointing to the escape route, further intensifying the controversy surrounding the security lapse.
Initial investigations revealed that the inmates exploited a security loophole in the facility, managing to open the cell door and access the pre-drilled hole. After scaling the exterior walls using blankets to protect themselves from barbed wire, the escapees dispersed into the surrounding area.
Intensive Manhunt and Security Concerns
Authorities have so far managed to apprehend three of the escapees:
- Kendall Miles (20 years old): Who had previously escaped from juvenile detention centers twice.
- Robert Moody (21 years old): Apprehended based on a tip from the “Crimestoppers” organization.
- Dequennan Dennis: Found near a highway.
However, several dangerous fugitives remain at large, most notably Derrick Groves, convicted of two counts of second-degree murder and attempted murder, and also facing charges of assaulting a prison employee. Authorities fear he may attempt to seek revenge on witnesses in his case, leading to the relocation of one witness’s family to a safe location. Corey Boyd, charged with second-degree murder, also remains at large.
Suspicions of Collusion and Negligence in a Chronically Troubled Prison
For her part, Prison Sheriff Susan Hutson expressed her belief that the escape occurred with “inside help,” describing it as “nearly impossible” without collusion. Three prison employees have been suspended pending the results of the investigation. Initial reports indicate negligence in maintaining long-broken locks, raising questions about the extent of security oversight within the prison.
It is worth noting that the New Orleans prison has suffered from chronic problems, having been under federal oversight since 2013 due to constitutional violations. Despite the opening of a new facility in 2015, security issues have persisted, including staff shortages and deteriorating infrastructure, further complicating the security situation.
Authorities are continuing intensive search operations for the remaining fugitives, with strict warnings to anyone who might attempt to assist or harbor them, emphasizing the danger these escapees pose to public safety.
