A major security breach has occurred at the Orleans Justice Center in New Orleans this Friday morning, with 11 inmates—some facing murder charges—escaping from custody. The facility is currently on full lockdown as local, state, and federal authorities launch an intensive manhunt for the fugitives.
The escape took place in the early hours of the morning, and sources have confirmed that all 11 inmates were being held in the same tier, awaiting trial for violent crimes, including armed robbery, aggravated assault, and homicide. This has prompted law enforcement to classify the escapees as armed and extremely dangerous.
The Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office has not yet released the names or photos of the escapees but has urged the public to remain vigilant. Authorities believe the inmates may still be in the local area or attempting to flee the city under the cover of darkness.
Lockdown & Public Alert
The Orleans Justice Center has implemented emergency security protocols, locking down all internal operations and suspending visitations and court transports until further notice. Officers are conducting an exhaustive search of the facility to ensure no additional inmates are unaccounted for and to identify the method used in the escape.
Manhunt Underway in High-Risk Areas
The Tulane & Broad area, Mid-City, and Central City neighborhoods are considered hot zones in the current search. Police are going door-to-door in some locations and combing through CCTV footage for clues on the inmates’ movements after the escape.
New Orleans Police Department, U.S. Marshals, and the Louisiana State Police are involved in the manhunt. Drones, K-9 units, and helicopters have been deployed in and around the city.
What to Do If You See Something
Residents in the vicinity are urged to stay indoors, lock all doors and windows, and report any suspicious activity immediately by calling 911. Do not approach any individual you suspect may be one of the escapees, as they are believed to be dangerous and possibly armed.
Officials Speak Out
A spokesperson for the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office released a statement saying:
“We are treating this as an urgent and critical incident. Our number one priority is the safety of the public. We are using every available resource to locate and apprehend the escaped individuals. We ask for patience and cooperation from the community as we continue our search.”
No injuries have been reported in relation to the escape, and no staff members have been harmed, though an internal investigation is underway to determine whether staff error or inside help contributed to the breach.
Community Reaction
Local residents have taken to social media to express fear and frustration, calling on city leaders to explain how such a serious breach could happen at a high-security facility. The Orleans Justice Center has faced criticism in the past for understaffing, poor management, and security lapses, and this incident is likely to reignite those concerns.
This is a developing story. Stay tuned for updates as law enforcement continues the manhunt. Anyone with information related to the escape or the whereabouts of the inmates should contact Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111 or 911.
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