Additional Coverage:
- Louisiana authorities arrest girlfriend of escaped inmate for conspiracy in coordinated jailbreak operation (foxnews.com)
New Orleans — A former Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office employee has been arrested for allegedly aiding in the escape of inmate Derrick Groves, according to Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill. Authorities believe the former employee, 28-year-old Darriana Burton, is Groves’ girlfriend.
Burton, who worked for the Sheriff’s Office from August 2022 to March 2023, was taken into custody on Monday by the U.S. Marshals Service in New Orleans. An arrest warrant had been issued on May 27, charging her with conspiracy to commit simple escape.
The affidavit alleges Burton coordinated communication between Groves and individuals outside the jail, sharing information related to the escape. Murrill’s office confirmed the pair had an on-again, off-again relationship for three years and are believed to be currently dating.
This isn’t Burton’s first brush with the law. Earlier this year, she was arrested and charged with bringing contraband into jail and malfeasance. However, those charges were later dropped by the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office.
“We will continue to pursue anyone and everyone who has aided and abetted these criminals,” Murrill stated. “We will find you, arrest you, and prosecute you to the full extent of the law.”
She also thanked the U.S. Marshals Service for their assistance in apprehending Burton.
Both Groves and another escaped inmate, Antoine Massey, remain at large. The investigation continues.