****

Authorities in New Orleans are grappling with an unsettling reality following the escape of Derrick Groves, a 27-year-old convicted of a double murder. Groves, who has a history of violent offenses, slipped out of the Orleans Justice Center with nine other inmates less than a year after his conviction.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil had previously reassured the community that "the days of Derrick Groves bullying and brutalizing this community are over," following Groves' conviction. However, Groves' recent jailbreak has reignited fears and cast doubts on the efficacy of the criminal justice system.

Groves, now on the run for over two weeks with another escapee, Antoine Massey, who also has a history of evading custody, broke out of the facility after pleading guilty to the battery of a correctional officer. A video posted online, showing Massey declaring his innocence, is currently under investigation by the US Marshals Service.

Groves' criminal activities date back to 2014 when, at 17, he was charged with attempted second-degree murder but was found not guilty. In October, Groves was finally convicted of the 2018 Mardi Gras shooting that left Jamar Robinson and Byron Jackson dead, and two others injured. The conviction came after a series of legal hurdles including a mistrial and a deadlock, with his latest conviction coming after the implementation of a new law requiring unanimous jury verdicts in Louisiana.

The escape of Groves has caused significant concern for the community and those involved in his conviction. Prosecutors and witnesses have temporarily left the area "out of an abundance of caution." Additionally, Groves' aunt, Jasmine Groves, expressed her anxiety and called for her nephew to surrender, hoping that no deadly force would be used in his capture.

In a twist of irony, Groves is the grandson of Kim Groves, who herself was a victim of a high-profile murder in 1994. This familial connection has led to some social media users sympathizing with Groves, blaming his actions on the tragic history of his family. Wherever he is, Derrick Groves remains a fugitive, with the city of New Orleans holding its breath for his recapture.