Who Is Derrick Groves? New Orleans Jailbreak, Crimes, and Community Impact Explained
Who Is Derrick Groves?
Derrick Groves is a name that has become widely recognized in New Orleans and beyond. Known for his involvement in multiple violent crimes, Groves has been at the center of a recent and shocking jailbreak from the Orleans Justice Center. His criminal past and the bold escape have raised serious concerns about public safety and jail management in the city.
The Recent New Orleans Jailbreak
On May 16, 2025, ten inmates including Derrick Groves managed to escape from the Orleans Justice Center. The escape was both daring and highly organized. According to Yahoo News, the inmates exploited structural vulnerabilities by removing a sink-toilet unit and crawling through a hole behind it. They then sprinted out, scaled a barbed-wire fence, and some even ran across an interstate. What’s more alarming is that jail staff did not detect their absence for several hours, giving the escapees a significant head start.
An internal investigation revealed that employees may have aided the break. Three jail employees were suspended, and Sterling Williams, a maintenance worker, has been arrested and charged in connection with the escape. For more on the timeline and staff involvement, see this detailed report.
Derrick Groves’ Criminal Background
Derrick Groves, also known as "Woo," is a four-time convicted killer. His convictions include two counts of second-degree murder, as well as two separate cases of manslaughter. In October 2024, Groves was found guilty of killing Byron Jackson and Jamar Robinson during Mardi Gras in New Orleans’ Ninth Ward. He also pleaded guilty to another manslaughter case involving the killing of Woodrow Smith.
Groves’ violent history has alarmed officials and the community alike. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams has expressed unease about Groves being at large. Notably, Groves has also faced accusations of drug dealing and violence against correctional staff. Insights from his family reveal a complicated picture, as his aunt has publicly called for him to turn himself in and questions the security at the local jail. Read more about his background and family’s perspective here.
Impact on the Community and Justice System
The escape has shaken public trust in the Orleans Justice Center. Not only did supervisors fail to detect the breakout quickly, but evidence also points to inadequate staffing and security procedures. The incident has sparked calls for greater transparency and accountability in the local criminal justice system.
Public officials, including the sheriff and district attorney, are under pressure to restore confidence and improve processes. The involvement of staff, whether by coercion or neglect, highlights systemic vulnerabilities that must be addressed.
Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Reform
The story of Derrick Groves is more than just a tale of crime and punishment. His escape has placed a spotlight on the cracks within the city’s justice system. Moving forward, this high-profile case serves as a call to action for stronger oversight, better staffing, and a renewed focus on public safety. As authorities continue the manhunt for Groves and others, the city awaits much-needed reform in its correctional facilities.