New Orleans Fugitive Manhunt: Press Conference on Increased Rewards and Ongoing Search

Joint Press Conference on Fugitive Apprehension

• 🤝 Multiple law enforcement agencies, including Crimestoppers GNO, Louisiana State Police, FBI, ATF, U.S. Marshals, and NOPD, held a joint press conference to provide updates on the manhunt for the last two fugitives from the Orleans Justice Center escape.
• 📞 Crimestoppers has fielded nearly 700 tips since the escape, adding four additional phone lines to manage the volume, and has vetted every tip for law enforcement.
• 💰 A reward of up to $20,000 per fugitive has been increased and is being offered for information leading to the arrest of Derrick Groves and Antoine Massey.

Law Enforcement Efforts and Partnerships

• 🚓 The ATF highlighted its mission to prevent violent crime and acknowledged the instrumental role of partners like LSP in coordinating the investigation.
• 🌐 The investigation has extended beyond Louisiana, with federal partners like the FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and HSI actively involved.
• 🤝 A dedicated task force, led by NOPD Special Operations Division, ATF, and HSI, has been crucial in investigating violent crime and conducting operations leading to the arrest of some escapees.

Public Assistance and Safety

• 📣 Law enforcement is urging the public to remain vigilant and report any information, no matter how small, by contacting Crimestoppers, ATF, FBI, or U.S. Marshals.
• ⚠️ Firearm owners are specifically asked to ensure their firearms are secured to prevent them from falling into the wrong hands.
• 🗣️ The public's trust and continued assistance are vital, as tips have already led to the confirmed arrest of three inmates, with rewards being paid out.

Fugitive Information and Search Status

• 🔍 The two remaining fugitives are Antoine Massey, with a long criminal history, and Derrick Groves, jailed on narcotics charges.
• 🗺️ While initial confidence was placed on the fugitives being in the metro area, recent arrests in Texas and Baton Rouge indicate they may be moving, possibly with assistance from others.
• 🚗 Law enforcement is confident in their leads and believes the walls are closing in, but emphasizes the need for ongoing public tips as the fugitives may relocate.

Reward Details and Legal Consequences

• 💵 The combined reward from Crimestoppers, ATF, and FBI now totals $50,000 per remaining fugitive.
• ⚖️ Individuals found to be aiding or harboring the fugitives will be arrested and prosecuted.
• 💡 The increased reward aims to incentivize the public to come forward, with Crimestoppers ensuring anonymity for tipsters.