Ten Inmates Escape from New Orleans Jail in Daring Move

Scene outside the Orleans Parish Justice Center following the daring escape of ten inmates.

News Summary

In a shocking incident, ten inmates escaped from the Orleans Parish Justice Center in New Orleans, raising alarms about facility security. The escape, executed around 1 a.m., involved breaking through a wall and disguising themselves in civilian clothing to blend in. Authorities are currently engaged in a manhunt for the remaining inmates, and investigations are underway into potential inside assistance that may have facilitated this alarming breach. With three inmates recaptured and security practices under review, public safety remains a significant concern as the community grapples with the implications of this event.

Ten Inmates Make a Daring Escape from New Orleans Jail

In a remarkable and alarming event, ten inmates pulled off a midnight escape from the Orleans Parish Justice Center early Friday morning, leaving authorities scrambling to regain control and ensure public safety. The escape, which has raised concerns about security protocols at the facility, occurred around 1 a.m. as the inmates managed to break free through a cleverly crafted hole in the wall of their cell.

How Did They Do It?

The escape route was nothing short of audacious. Reports indicate that a **rectangular hole** was formed just large enough for each inmate to squeeze through, located next to a metal toilet and sink that had been **ripped from the wall**. Above this hole, cheeky messages were left behind, including one that mockingly stated, “it was all too ‘easy. LOL.’” How’s that for a way to leave a parting shot?

Once they made it through the hole, the inmates swapped their bright orange jail uniforms for civilian clothes—making it much easier to blend in. Surveillance video has shown them leaving through a door on a loading dock, demonstrating a surprising level of planning and coordination.

What Happened Next?

According to the authorities, after exiting the facility, the inmates climbed a wall and ran across **Interstate 10**, putting significant distance between themselves and the Orleans Parish Justice Center. But it didn’t take long for law enforcement to kick into high gear. The first escapee to be captured was **Kendell Myles**, just hours later in the French Quarter. By the end of the day, two more—**Robert Moody** and **Dkenan Dennis**—were also back in custody.

The Investigation Unfolds

While three inmates have been recaptured, the remaining seven are still on the run and considered **armed and dangerous**, prompting a manhunt throughout the region. The investigation into how such a breach could occur is already underway. Sheriff Susan Hutson revealed suspicions that some of the inmates may have had **inside assistance** during their escape. Disturbingly, a civilian employee monitoring security systems left their post to grab a bite to eat at a crucial moment, leaving a gap in the watchful eye of security.

The consequences are already being felt, with three employees of the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office suspended without pay. Multiple security failures are being scrutinized, as it appears that defective locks and doors allowed the inmates to concoct their escape. Even more alarmingly, evidence suggests that assistance might have been provided from within the jail itself.

Safety Concerns Loom Large

The escape comes at a time when the Orleans Parish jail has been grappling with issues of overcrowding and understaffing, currently operating at only **60% capacity**. Previous requests for a budget increase to tackle these ongoing challenges have yet to bear fruit. The inmates who escaped are charged with serious offenses, including murder and armed robbery, adding another layer of urgency to their recapture.

Rewards and Community Impact

In response to the escape, **Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry** has announced a **$5,000 reward** for information leading to the capture of the remaining escapees. Additionally, the FBI has offered resources and a reward for tips. Community members are urged to remain vigilant as authorities work to ensure public safety.

An unsettling **headcount** conducted at 8:30 a.m. on the same day revealed the startling news that the inmates were missing, prompting an immediate notification of local and state law enforcement around 10:30 a.m., nearly two hours later. The situation underscores the need for tighter security measures and operational protocols within the facility.

As the investigation continues, the **community grapples** with what this escape means for safety and security in the area. While some escapees are already back behind bars, the ongoing search for the others reminds everyone just how complex and sometimes alarming the situation can be.