A major manhunt is underway in New Orleans after ten inmates—including several charged with murder and armed robbery—escaped from the Orleans Justice Center in a coordinated overnight breakout.
The escape was discovered during a routine headcount when jail staff noticed a discrepancy. Investigators say the group managed to remove a toilet from a handicap-accessible cell and crawled through a gap in the wall to reach a restricted area. From there, they accessed a loading dock and scaled a wall before fleeing on foot across nearby highway lanes.
Authorities apprehended one escapee, Kendell Myles, shortly after the incident. He was found hiding under a car in a nearby hotel garage. The remaining nine inmates are still at large and are considered dangerous. Law enforcement officials are urging the public to remain alert and report any sightings immediately.
Sheriff Susan Hutson has confirmed that the escape may have involved inside assistance. Three staff members have been placed on administrative leave as an internal investigation unfolds. The facility has faced years of scrutiny, including federal oversight due to chronic staffing shortages and security lapses.
The FBI is offering up to $5,000 per inmate for information leading to their capture. Local authorities are now under intense pressure to assess and overhaul security protocols to prevent future breaches.