Antoine Massey Apprehended Six Weeks After Daring Jail Break
Authorities recaptured Antoine Massey, one of the ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center in New Orleans on May 16, 2025. The 33-year-old was peacefully arrested on June 27 in the Hollygrove neighborhood, approximately two miles from the jail.
Massey was found alone inside a rental home on the 9400 block of Stroelitz Street and surrendered without incident following a tip that led law enforcement to his location. New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick confirmed that Massey cooperated fully during the arrest.
A Break in the Case After Six Weeks on the Run
Massey’s capture marks the ninth recapture of the ten escapees, leaving only Derrick Groves, a four-time convicted killer, still at large. For weeks, a $50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to the capture of each remaining fugitive.
Law enforcement officials continue to urge Groves to surrender peacefully, assuring that public defenders stand ready to assist. Walter Martin, chief deputy of the US Marshals, vowed that the search will persist until Groves is caught, emphasizing the commitment to public safety.
The Escape and Massey’s Criminal History
The mass escape exploited several security flaws at the Orleans Justice Center. The inmates reportedly cut through a cell wall using electric hair clippers, slipped through a hole behind a toilet, and scaled a barbed-wire fence under the cover of darkness. A taunting message was left near the escape point, reading "To Easy LoL".
Massey has a lengthy history of escapes dating back to 2007. Prior to his most recent detention, he faced serious charges including rape and kidnapping in St. Tammany Parish, as well as domestic abuse battery involving strangulation and motor vehicle theft in Orleans Parish.
Social Media Activity and Public Reaction
During his time as a fugitive, Massey made headlines by posting on social media, declaring his innocence and appealing for help from public figures. Authorities had previously raided a New Orleans residence in search of him following these posts, but he remained elusive until Friday.
The residence where Massey was found was reportedly operated as an Airbnb rental, with the property owner unaware of Massey’s presence. Following his arrest, he was transported by air support to a secure state facility outside the local area for processing and further detention.
Law Enforcement’s Continued Pursuit of Derrick Groves
Despite this significant breakthrough, the hunt for Derrick Groves continues. Groves was convicted for a 2018 double homicide and recently pleaded guilty to assaulting a corrections officer. Authorities suspect he received assistance in orchestrating his escape.
Crimestoppers has received over 1,200 tips since the jailbreak, encouraging the public to remain vigilant and report any leads. A substantial reward remains for information leading to Groves’ capture, which authorities emphasize is paramount to closing this chapter.
Officials Call for Community Support
Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson and Louisiana State Police Superintendent Robert Hodges both reinforced the need for the community’s aid in locating Groves. Hutson expressed hope that Groves would choose to surrender, stating, "We’ve got one more to go. I call upon Derrick Groves to do the right thing and turn himself in."
Summary
The swift and peaceful capture of Antoine Massey demonstrates the dedication and coordination among multiple law enforcement agencies in New Orleans. With nine of the ten escapees now back behind bars, officials remain resolute in their mission to find the final fugitive and restore security.
