Officials offer $10K reward as search continues for seven escaped inmates

A major search effort is underway in New Orleans after seven inmates escaped from the Orleans Justice Center late last week, prompting concerns across the community and beyond.

Authorities say the men—who face serious charges ranging from assault to murder—should be considered dangerous.

As law enforcement agencies work together to locate the escapees, the public is being asked to remain aware, take precautions, and report any information that could aid the investigation.

With rewards now being offered for tips leading to their capture, officials are emphasizing that public cooperation could play a vital role in resolving this case quickly and safely.


The escape occurred on Friday, when a group of ten inmates managed to flee through a hole behind a toilet—an area of the jail that appears to have had faulty locks.

Three of the men have since been recaptured, but seven are still unaccounted for as of Sunday.

Officials believe the escape may have involved inside assistance.

The group’s charges range from aggravated assault and domestic violence to more serious offenses such as murder.

The inmates are between 19 and 42 years old and are considered dangerous.


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Authorities are asking for the public’s help as the search continues for seven escaped inmates from a New Orleans jail. Image Source: YouTube / ABC News.


Search expands as rewards increase

Local, state, and federal agencies—including the FBI, ATF, and CrimeStoppers—have launched a coordinated search.

A reward of over $17,000 is now being offered for each fugitive, with the FBI alone doubling its contribution to $10,000 per person.

Tips from the public have already helped in at least one recapture, and officials say community support could again play a key role.

The fugitives are still believed to be in Louisiana, and neighboring states have been notified as a precaution.


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Concerns about jail security grow

The escape has raised significant questions about the state of the jail.

Sheriff Susan Hutson acknowledged that the facility has aging infrastructure and that she had requested funding to address security concerns—including broken locks.

Governor Jeff Landry called the situation “possibly the largest jailbreak in the history of the state” and announced a full audit of the Orleans Justice Center.

Officials are also examining how long it took for authorities to notice the escape and inform police—a delay that has drawn criticism, especially given the jail’s proximity to populated areas like the French Quarter.


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What should you do?

1. Stay alert, but don’t panic


New Orleans Police Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick reminded residents to remain aware of their surroundings and report anything unusual—but not to attempt to intervene directly.

2. Report tips immediately

If you have any information or see anything suspicious, contact law enforcement, the FBI, or CrimeStoppers. Tips can be made anonymously, and you may be eligible for a reward.

3. Take extra precautions

  • Keep doors and windows locked
  • Be cautious when opening the door to unexpected visitors
  • Watch for unusual activity in yards, garages, or vacant buildings


Source: YouTube / ABC News.​


This incident is a reminder that public safety depends on both strong systems and community awareness.

Many in The GrayVine community have deep roots in their neighborhoods, and now more than ever, looking out for one another can make a real difference.

It also raises important questions about infrastructure, oversight, and the responsibility of public institutions to keep the community safe.

Accountability for the security breakdown remains a key concern moving forward.


Source: YouTube / CBS News


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Key Takeaways
  • Seven inmates remain on the run after escaping a New Orleans jail through a hole behind a toilet, with a $10,000 reward offered for each fugitive’s capture.
  • The men, aged 19 to 42 and facing serious charges including murder, escaped due to defective locks, and officials suspect they may have received assistance from inside.
  • The incident has sparked criticism of the jail's management and the broader criminal justice system, with state officials promising an audit and accountability for the failure.
  • Authorities warn the fugitives are dangerous and have ramped up a multi-agency search, also cautioning the public against helping the escapees and urging anyone with information to come forward.

Have you ever experienced a major manhunt or emergency in your area? Do you have advice for staying safe in uncertain times—or questions about how law enforcement handles situations like this? Share your thoughts in the comments. Your experiences, insights, and questions help inform and support the broader community.

If you have any information about the escapees’ whereabouts, report it right away. Your tip could help bring resolution to this ongoing search.
 

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