BREAKING: Jail Escapee Antoine Massey Recaptured in New Orleans; Only One Inmate Still at Large

New Orleans, LA — June 27, 2025 — After more than a month on the run, Antoine Massey, one of the 10 inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center on May 16, has been recaptured, according to an announcement by the U.S. Marshals Service. Massey was apprehended Friday, June 27, during a coordinated operation in New Orleans.

The fugitive’s recapture marks a significant development in the ongoing manhunt that has gripped the city and drawn national attention. Authorities say Massey was located through a multi-agency investigation that included cooperation between the U.S. Marshals, Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, and other federal and local law enforcement partners.

Details of the Capture

Officials have not yet released the exact location or circumstances of Massey’s arrest but confirmed he was taken into custody without incident. According to sources familiar with the investigation, Massey was believed to have been hiding within city limits and may have been receiving assistance while evading capture.

The U.S. Marshals Service credited community tips and persistent surveillance efforts as key factors in tracking Massey down.

“Antoine Massey’s recapture is a testament to the dedication and relentless pursuit of justice by our officers and partners,” said a spokesperson for the U.S. Marshals Service. “We will not rest until all individuals responsible for undermining public safety are brought back into custody.”

Background: A Brazen Escape

The escape from the Orleans Justice Center on May 16 shocked the public and exposed major security lapses at the facility. Ten inmates managed to flee from the jail in a bold, coordinated breakout that prompted widespread criticism of jail oversight and infrastructure.

The escape led to a citywide manhunt, with law enforcement agencies working around the clock to bring the escapees back into custody. Since the breakout, nine of the ten fugitives have now been apprehended.

Massey had been facing serious charges at the time of his escape, including armed robbery, aggravated battery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Officials say he will now face additional charges related to the escape and time spent as a fugitive.

⸻

One Fugitive Remains: Derrick Groves

With Massey now behind bars, only one inmate — Derrick Groves — remains at large. Groves, considered dangerous, is the last of the 10 escapees who continues to elude capture. Law enforcement agencies remain actively engaged in efforts to locate and arrest him.

Citizens are urged to remain vigilant and to report any information about Groves’ whereabouts. A reward remains in place for information leading to his arrest.

Groves is described as a 26-year-old Black male, approximately 5’9” tall, weighing 160 pounds, with multiple tattoos, including one on his neck. He was being held on charges related to violent assault and drug trafficking at the time of his escape.

⸻

Public Urged to Remain Alert

As investigations continue into how the May 16 jailbreak occurred, city and state officials have promised reforms at the Orleans Justice Center. Security upgrades, staffing increases, and procedural reviews are said to be underway to prevent future breaches.

Anyone with information about Derrick Groves or the escape is encouraged to call Crime Stoppers at 504-822-1111 or the U.S. Marshals Service tip line. Tips can be made anonymously and could result in a reward.

⸻

Conclusion

With Antoine Massey back in custody, the city of New Orleans breathes a sigh of relief, but the work is far from over. The final chapter in this dramatic jailbreak remains unwritten, as the search for Derrick Groves intensifies. Law enforcement remains committed to seeing this case to its conclusion — and ensuring that public safety is never compromised again.