Louisiana Governor Criticizes Progressive Policies Following New Orleans Jail Escape

Louisiana Governor Criticizes Progressive Policies Following New Orleans Jail Escape

Seven escaped prisoners, including two suspects charged with murder, remain at large after a dramatic jailbreak at a New Orleans jail early Friday morning. In response, Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry condemned the parish’s progressive crime policies, claiming they contributed to the escape.

During a press conference on Sunday night, Landry stated, “The irony of the progressive promises made to this city is evident. New Orleans handed the jail keys to those who vowed to keep criminals out of jail, and sadly, today we see that it worked.” He emphasized that the video footage showing the prisoners escaping serves as a stark example of a failed progressive criminal justice system.

Landry also criticized politicians who, in his view, pander to voters at the expense of public safety. He argued that these actions create a sense of disorder and insecurity within the community.

In light of the jailbreak, Landry has initiated an executive order for an audit of the Orleans Correctional Facility by the state’s Department of Corrections. This order includes the removal of all state inmates from the local jail. Additionally, he directed the state inspector general to collaborate with the Orleans Parish Sheriff to conduct a thorough assessment of all jail inmates awaiting trial and those awaiting sentencing.

Details of the Escape

Authorities report that ten inmates managed to escape from the Orleans Parish Correctional Facility on Friday night. Surveillance footage captured the moment they crawled through a hidden hole behind a toilet. They then scaled the jail’s barbed wire fence and made their way across the highway to a nearby neighborhood, where they changed their clothing.

Upon their escape, the inmates left behind graffiti messages that read, “To Easy LOL” and “WE INNOCENT” next to the hole they used for their departure.

Law enforcement believes that the escapees received assistance from someone inside the facility. A female civilian employee, who was responsible for monitoring the pod, apparently stepped away to retrieve food, allowing the escape to occur undetected.

Profiles of the Escapees

The seven fugitives still on the run include:

• Jermaine Donald, 42
• Antoine Massey, 33
• Leo Tate, 31
• Lenton Vanburen, 27
• Derrick Groves, 27
• Gary Price, 21
• Corey Boyd, 19

Donald and Boyd face serious charges, including second-degree murder. Additionally, Donald is charged with aggravated battery, possession of a weapon by a felon, and obstruction of justice. Boyd’s other charges include attempted second-degree murder and illegal carrying of weapons. Both Miles and Vanburen are facing charges related to assaulting correctional facility employees.

Groves, who pled guilty to manslaughter in October, was awaiting sentencing when he escaped. Landry remarked, “If he would have been sentenced, he likely would not have had the opportunity to escape.”

Authorities Expand Search

As the manhunt for the escapees intensifies, authorities are concerned they may have traveled beyond state lines. To aid in their capture, bounties of $20,000 have been announced for each fugitive.

On Monday morning, the Louisiana State Police noted, “We’ve had troopers working alongside our local, state, and federal partners throughout the night, developing more leads.” The ongoing collaboration aims to track down the fugitives swiftly.

While law enforcement seeks additional information, both the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives have refrained from commenting on the situation.

A Community on Alert

The escape has left the local community on high alert. Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity as authorities work diligently to recapture the fugitives. The state remains committed to enhancing safety and preventing further incidents that challenge the integrity of the criminal justice system.

The chaos surrounding the recent escape highlights ongoing discussions regarding the efficacy and safety of progressive policies in criminal justice. As the situation unfolds, many are left pondering the potential ramifications for law enforcement and safety in New Orleans.