Authorities in Louisiana confirmed Monday that three additional fugitives from the daring May 16 escape at Orleans Parish jail have been recaptured, bringing the total to eight out of ten inmates now back in custody.
Lenton Vanburen, who was arrested in Baton Rouge, is among those newly captured. Vanburen was initially detained on allegations of parole violation, felon possession of a firearm, and illegal weapon carrying. According to Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill, he will now face further charges stemming from his breakout.
Meanwhile, Leo Tate and Jermaine Donald were arrested in Walker County, Texas, by the Texas Department of Public Safety in collaboration with Louisiana State Police. Both were members of the escape group and face serious accusations.
Donald is accused with second-degree murder, aggravated violence, and obstructing justice. He is also charged of having a handgun while a felon.
Tate faces charges for simple burglary of an inhabited house, illegal possession of a handgun, motor vehicle theft, and a number of drug-related felonies.
The pair was among ten inmates who successfully escaped from the New Orleans jail earlier this month. Since then, a huge manhunt by multiple agencies has been ongoing.
Before Vanburen’s apprehension, the most recent inmate arrested was Corey Boyd, who was arrested last week. Other inmates apprehended include Kendell Myles, Robert Moody, Dkenan Dennis, and Gary Price.
Authorities have made significant progress, not only in tracking down the escapees but also those who allegedly helped them. So far, 12 people have been arrested for aiding and abetting.
Over the weekend, law enforcement detained Lenika Vanburen (28), Patricia Vanburen (18), Tyshanea “Minnie” Randolph (27), Lenton Vanburen Sr. (47), and Angel McKey (40) for their alleged roles in helping the fugitives. A source confirmed to Fox News that Lenton Sr. is the father of Lenton Vanburen Jr.
Two more suspects, Casey Smith and Cortnie Harris, were also arrested in the widening investigation. Another woman, Connie Weeden (59), reportedly transferred cash to Donald using a phone app. She now faces a felony charge for being an accessory after the fact.
Despite the progress, two inmates remain at large. Antoine Massey (32) is wanted on charges of domestic abuse involving strangulation, motor vehicle theft, and a parole violation. Derrick Groves (27) is accused of attempted second-degree murder, second-degree murder, and assaulting a correctional officer.
Authorities are urging the public to remain cautious. Both men are considered armed and dangerous. Anyone with information is encouraged to contact law enforcement immediately.
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