Nearly two months after a dramatic jailbreak from a New Orleans jail, law enforcement agencies have recaptured all but one of the escapees: Derrick Groves, who is noted for his violent criminal history. According to reports, Groves and nine other inmates crawled through a hole behind a toilet to escape on May 16. Law enforcement quickly managed to apprehend three members of the group within 24 hours and most of the remaining escapees within weeks; however, Groves has evaded capture, maintaining a low profile.
The 28-year-old Groves, who has faced severe criminal charges, was convicted last year of two counts of murder for an incident where he opened fire at a family block party, using an assault rifle. This violence was attributed to an ongoing feud with rival drug dealers. Groves is currently facing a potential life sentence without the possibility of parole, but administrative issues have kept him in a more vulnerable jail setting instead of a higher-security prison.
Forrest Ladd, an assistant district attorney involved in Groves' prosecution, stated, "He's got nothing to lose," highlighting the danger posed by a fugitive with Groves' background. Bryce Peterson, an adjunct professor of criminal justice at John Jay College, mentioned that over 90% of escapees from U.S. correctional facilities are caught within a year. However, he emphasized that the chances of staying on the run increase with time, although he believes Groves will eventually be found due to media coverage surrounding the case.
The escape itself was atypical, marked by a level of planning and collaboration involving both current and former jail employees. A former jail staff member, who became Groves’ girlfriend during his incarceration, allegedly played a significant role in facilitating the escape by setting up unmonitored phone calls. Authorities revealed that around 16 individuals, including family members of the escapees, are now facing charges for providing various forms of support to the fugitives, most of whom remained in New Orleans.
After the jailbreak, law enforcement received tips suggesting Groves was hiding in the Lower Ninth Ward, a neighborhood deeply affected by Hurricane Katrina and where he grew up. Despite ongoing investigations, law enforcement has struggled to pinpoint his exact location, with Louisiana State Police Superintendent Col. Robert Hodges suggesting that Groves likely has assistance from acquaintances or relatives, which complicates their efforts.
The search for Groves is further hampered by a pervasive distrust of law enforcement in New Orleans, stemming from a long history of abuse against the local Black community. A notable incident involved the murder of Groves’ grandmother, Kim Groves, in 1994, which further deepened suspicions and skepticism toward law enforcement among local residents. Groves’ aunt articulated the family's plight, stating that their past experiences with the justice system have made them wary and fearful.
Throughout his life, Groves, also known as "Woo," has grappled with systemic issues. He dropped out of school in the ninth grade and became involved in drug dealing, leading to federal charges in 2019. Groves' criminal record includes multiple murders, making him a high-profile target for law enforcement. Eyewitnesses in his cases have faced intimidation, further complicating the judicial process against him.
As authorities continue their search, a $50,000 reward has been offered for information leading to Groves’ recapture. Meanwhile, the societal inequality that has shaped Groves' life continues to play a role in this unfolding narrative, making his capture a focal point of greater systemic issues at play.
