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Authorities arrested two individuals on Wednesday for reportedly aiding fugitives involved in a recent jailbreak in New Orleans. The arrests follow a dramatic escape that has garnered significant attention.
The Louisiana State Police announced that 32-year-old Cortnie Harris from New Orleans and 38-year-old Corvanntay Baptiste from Slidell face charges related to their alleged involvement. Both individuals were booked on one felony count of accessory after the fact and are currently held at the Plaquemines Parish Detention Center.
According to police reports, the investigation indicates that Harris had prior communication with one of the escapees. It was found that she transported two escapees, who remain at large, to several different locations throughout New Orleans.
Meanwhile, Baptiste’s alleged involvement came through his communication with escapee Corey Boyd, who was later captured. Reports suggest Baptiste assisted Boyd by providing him with food while he sought refuge in a local residence.
The revelation of these arrests comes just a day after another significant arrest was made. Sterling Williams, 33, employed as a maintenance worker by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, was apprehended for allegedly assisting inmates’ escape. Williams faces serious accusations, including being charged as a principal to simple escape and committing malfeasance in office.
Authorities allege that Williams disabled the water supply in the cell from which the escapees fled, enabling their getaway. He is currently being held on a bond amounting to $1.1 million, totaling $100,000 per charge.
In his arrest affidavit, Williams claimed that he acted under duress, stating he was threatened with a stabbing if he did not help the escapees.
In a notable development on Tuesday night, the Louisiana State Police confirmed the capture of 19-year-old Corey Boyd. Prior to his escape, Boyd was awaiting trial on multiple serious charges, including second-degree murder and attempted murder.
This jailbreak has not only raised concerns about public safety but has also provoked political reactions, with Democratic lawmakers pressing for accountability from local law enforcement. The incident has sparked calls for the resignation of the local sheriff.
Currently, five of the escaped inmates remain at large. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has expressed her belief that these individuals are still within the New Orleans area. During an interview, she commented on the situation, suggesting that unless the escapees have substantial resources, they are likely to remain close to their hometown.
Murrill stated that she has informed authorities in nearby states about the possibility of the escapees attempting to leave the area. However, her instinct tells her they will likely seek shelter in familiar surroundings, as the fugitives are believed to have grown up in New Orleans.
The situation continues to unravel, and law enforcement remains vigilant in their efforts to capture the remaining fugitives. The community watches closely, concerned about the implications of such a high-profile escape.
Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of the remaining escapees to come forward. The investigation into how these individuals managed to escape—along with the ongoing inquiries into the involvement of those aiding them—will remain a priority for law enforcement moving forward.
This developing news story highlights the complexities of ensuring public safety in the face of such critical incidents. Continued updates will reveal further developments in this ongoing investigation.
