Law enforcement officials have captured 28-year-old Derrick Groves, the final fugitive from a large-scale New Orleans jail break, ending a months-long search that spanned several states.

Groves was discovered hiding in a crawl space under a southwest Atlanta home following a tense standoff that involved tear gas and police dogs. The arrest came after investigators received a CrimeStoppers tip that led authorities to the location.

Images released after the arrest show Groves shirtless and shackled, appearing unbothered as officers escorted him.

Background of the Escape

Groves was among ten inmates who broke out of the Orleans Parish Justice Center on May 16, 2025, using an improvised route through a hole behind a toilet. A message reading “Too Easy LOL” was left scrawled on the wall.

While the other inmates were caught within weeks, Groves had managed to stay hidden for nearly five months. At the time of the escape, he was already serving a life sentence for a double homicide connected to a 2018 Mardi Gras shooting.

Capture and Extradition

After his capture, Groves appeared before a Fulton County judge and waived extradition, telling the court he wanted to return to Louisiana. He will be transferred back to New Orleans, where prosecutors are preparing additional aggravated escape charges.

Authorities also revealed that firearms and marijuana were found inside the home where he was hiding.

Ongoing Investigation

Investigators believe the breakout was aided by inside help, including a former employee of the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, Darriana Burton, who is facing conspiracy charges. In total, 16 individuals have been accused of assisting the escapees through housing, transportation, or funding.

Officials from the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office have promised to tighten jail security and review staff procedures to prevent similar incidents.