Fugitive Continues to Taunt Authorities on Social Media

Authorities are currently investigating another social media post that was brought to their attention on Thursday. This post is the second within a week potentially linked to Antoine Massey, a fugitive who escaped from a New Orleans jail over two weeks ago. A recent Instagram post that surfaced on Wednesday features a man in front of a blue vehicle, claiming to be “#AntoineMassey” and showcasing the same unique facial tattoos as the fugitive. Officials are uncertain of the time and location of this image but are proceeding under the assumption that it is indeed Massey.

Details of the Jailbreak

The escape involved a group of inmates who exploited a defective cell door, maneuvered through a wall gap behind a toilet where iron bars were removed, and then climbed over a barbed-wire fence with blankets as makeshift protection. This incident marks one of the most significant jailbreaks in recent American history. In a critique of the facility’s management under Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson, state and local authorities have articulated strong disapproval. Hutson attributed the escape primarily to the jail’s deteriorating infrastructure and a lack of resources for necessary enhancements to the modern $150 million establishment, which is only a decade old. To date, authorities have successfully recaptured eight of the escapees, but Massey alongside another fugitive, convicted murderer Derrick Groves, continues to elude capture.

Response to Massey’s Claims of Innocence

In the contentious Instagram post, the individual alleged to be Massey declares his innocence. Massey, 32, is facing severe charges including kidnapping, rape, domestic battery involving strangulation, and auto theft. Deputy U.S. Marshal Brian Fair encouraged Massey to surrender and face the allegations in court through proper legal processes, admitting that it remains uncertain whether Massey himself posted the photo or where it precisely originated. Earlier this week, additional videos believed to be created by Massey prompted a law enforcement raid on a New Orleans residence, merely a couple of miles from the jail, although only the clothing assumed to be worn in the videos was discovered.

State Governor Calls for Surrender

Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry has publicly called on Massey and Groves to end their evasion of law enforcement and present themselves for arrest. This stern demand underscores the urgency and gravity of the situation as authorities work diligently to rectify the aftermath of the jailbreak and ensure those escaped are brought to justice.