NEW ORLEANS – Jail escapee Antoine Massey was apprehended on Friday in New Orleans, as confirmed by the US Marshals Service and Louisiana State Police. His capture marks a significant development in the ongoing search for escapees from the Orleans Justice Center jail.
Breaking: Capture in Hollygrove
Massey was located and arrested in the 9400 block of Stroelitz Street in the Hollygrove area. According to authorities, a Crimestoppers tip initially led to his whereabouts, although Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson later revealed that she received the critical information through a direct phone call.
Immediate Impact
When law enforcement surrounded the house, Massey was alone and surrendered peacefully. “He peacefully gave up to law enforcement who surrounded the house,” New Orleans police Supt. Anne Kirkpatrick stated during a news conference.
The arrest comes six weeks to the day since the escape of 10 inmates from the Orleans Justice Center jail.
Key Details Emerge
Massey, aged 33, is the ninth escapee to be recaptured. Only Derrick Groves, a four-time killer, remains at large. Authorities have offered a $50,000 reward for information leading to the capture of each remaining escapee.
“Groves knows, we will capture you,” Kirkpatrick warned. “But the opportunity is there to turn yourself in anytime. The public defender is ready to be there and be with you the moment you want to turn yourself in.”
By the Numbers
- 10 inmates escaped on May 16
- 9 escapees recaptured
- $50,000 reward for information
Background Context
Massey had previously surfaced on social media on June 5, claiming his innocence and seeking help from public figures such as President Donald Trump and Kim Kardashian. He is wanted in St. Tammany Parish on charges of rape and kidnapping and was jailed in Orleans Parish pending trial for domestic abuse battery involving strangulation and vehicle theft.
Officials noted Massey’s history of three prior escapes dating back to 2007, underscoring the challenges in securing his custody.
Industry Response
Walter Martin, chief deputy of the US Marshals, confirmed that Massey was arrested around 3:30 p.m. He emphasized that the search for Groves will persist until all escapees are apprehended.
Meanwhile, a woman who requested anonymity arrived at the scene, claiming ownership of the property where Massey was found. She stated that the house was used as an AirBnB rental and expressed surprise at Massey’s presence.
What Comes Next
Massey will be processed at the Orleans Justice Center before being transferred to the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola later on Friday night. Sheriff Hutson refrained from disclosing details of the phone call that led to Massey’s capture, but expressed optimism about the ongoing efforts to capture Groves.
“We just ask the public to continue to trust law enforcement, and we will find Mr. Groves,” said Col. Robert Hodges, superintendent of the Louisiana State Police.
Crimestoppers CEO Darlene Cusanza reported over 1,200 tips since the jailbreak on May 16. The organization continues to encourage anyone with information on Groves’ whereabouts to call (504) 822-1111.
The developments in this case highlight the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to ensure public safety and bring all escapees to justice.
