Authorities Raid New Orleans Home Where Jail Escapee Filmed Plea for Help: Source

Law enforcement authorities conducted a high-profile raid on a New Orleans residence believed to have been used recently by Antoine Massey, one of two inmates still at large following a dramatic jail escape last month. The operation was triggered after relatives recognized the location featured in a now-removed Instagram video, in which Massey proclaimed his innocence and claimed he had not escaped, but rather was allowed to leave jail.

Despite efforts by the police, Massey—considered dangerous and an experienced escapee—was not apprehended during the raid. Officials did, however, recover articles of clothing belonging to him, further confirming that the fugitive had occupied the home at some point. According to individuals familiar with the investigation, the tip that led officers to the location came from Massey's own family members, who expressed concern about his safety and the ongoing manhunt.

Massey’s recent social media activity has drawn wide attention. In the since-deleted video, he maintained, "They say that I broke out. I didn't break out, I was let out. I’m one of the ones that was let out of Orleans Parish jail where they said I escaped, right?" He went further, appealing for help from high-profile rappers and former President Donald Trump, stating, "I couldn't even get a lawyer. I couldn't afford a lawyer to prove my innocence."

The fugitive also denied allegations that he threatened jail maintenance worker Sterling Williams, who was arrested for allegedly assisting with the escape under supposed duress. “Maintenance workers were only allowed near inmates if they were guarded by a deputy,” Massey insisted, refuting any claims that he coerced or endangered prison staff.

Sheriff Susan Hutson responded to the video, urging Massey to surrender, noting, “Cooperating with law enforcement is in his best interest and may help avoid additional charges. It is important that justice is served appropriately and that due process is followed.” However, investigators remain tight-lipped, declining to authenticate the video publicly, citing concerns over compromising ongoing leads and operations.

The massive search began nearly three weeks ago, when 10 inmates staged a bold escape from the Orleans Parish Justice Facility, crawling through a hole hidden behind a toilet and vaulting the jail's barbed-wire fence. Most have since been recaptured, leaving only Massey and Derrick Groves—a convicted murderer—still unaccounted for. Authorities describe the remaining fugitives as highly dangerous, and warn the public not to approach anyone resembling them.

Massey faces multiple charges, including domestic abuse by strangulation, auto theft, and parole violations, and has now evaded authorities on four separate occasions. His sister is among 14 people apprehended under suspicion of facilitating the escape or harboring fugitives. Both Massey and Groves are the focus of an intensified manhunt, with rewards of $50,000 each being offered for information leading to their capture. Law enforcement agencies assure the public that they remain committed to restoring order and bringing both men back into custody as soon as possible.