After nearly five months on the run, Derrick Groves — the last of ten inmates who escaped from the Orleans Parish jail in New Orleans — has been captured. His arrest on October 8 in Atlanta brings an end to a nationwide search that raised questions about the security systems at one of Louisiana’s largest correctional facilities.
How Derrick Groves Was Captured
According to authorities, Groves was found hiding beneath a home in Atlanta, Georgia. After hours of resistance, officers used gas and a K-9 unit to bring him out safely. He was taken into custody without injury and is currently being held at the Fulton County Jail.
Officials confirmed that Groves will be returned to Louisiana to face multiple charges — including new counts linked to his escape — on top of his original violent convictions.
Who Is Derrick Groves?
Groves, 28, was considered the most dangerous among the escapees. He was serving time for a 2024 second-degree murder conviction after opening fire with an assault rifle at a Mardi Gras block party, killing two people and injuring several others.
He also faced separate charges of attempted second-degree murder connected to other violent incidents. Groves’ family history is marked by tragedy — his grandmother, Kim Groves, was the victim in a well-known 1990s police corruption case in New Orleans.
The May 16 Jailbreak
The dramatic escape occurred on May 16, 2025. Groves and nine others took advantage of a series of security lapses inside the Orleans Parish Justice Center. Investigators say they managed to open a malfunctioning cell door, crawl through a gap behind a toilet, and scale a barbed-wire fence to get out.
The escape triggered one of the largest manhunts in the region’s history and led to multiple arrests. Authorities detained at least 16 people — including family members, friends, and jail employees — suspected of aiding the fugitives with transportation, shelter, and funds.
Among those arrested was a former jail employee who was reportedly in a relationship with Groves and accused of helping plan the breakout. A $50,000 reward was offered for any information leading to Groves’ capture.
Where Was He Found?
Groves was ultimately found hiding in a crawl space under a house in Atlanta. When officers reached him, he was barefoot, shirtless, and restrained immediately after surrendering. His arrest involved a coordinated effort by local police, federal agents, and multiple fugitive task forces.
Charges Derrick Groves Faces
Second-Degree Murder – Convicted in 2024 for the Mardi Gras shooting that left two dead and several injured.
Attempted Second-Degree Murder – Connected to earlier violent crimes.
Simple Escape – Applies to all ten inmates involved in the May 16 breakout; carries an additional two to five years in prison.
Fugitive from Justice – Added for evading capture across state lines.
Conspiracy and Complicity – Several individuals linked to Groves are also being prosecuted for their roles in planning and aiding the escape.
Groves’ capture brings closure to one of the most publicized inmate manhunts in recent Louisiana history — but the fallout for those who helped him may only be beginning.
