Louisiana Jail Escapee Derrick Groves Sentenced to Two Life Terms for Deadly 2018 Mardi Gras Double Murder
LOUISIANA — Derrick Groves, the convicted gunman who escaped from the Orleans Parish Justice Center and spent nearly five months on the run, has now been sentenced to two consecutive life sentences without the possibility of parole for a 2018 double murder committed on Mardi Gras Day, according to court officials.
Escapee Captured After Nationwide Manhunt
Groves, who pulled off a daring jail escape in May 2025, managed to avoid authorities across multiple states before being captured in an Atlanta crawlspace during a nationwide manhunt. His months-long disappearance raised major questions about security lapses at the New Orleans jail, drawing heavy public and political scrutiny.
Officials emphasized that Groves’ escape created substantial operational strain on law enforcement, with investigators tracking dozens of leads before finally locating him in Georgia.
Sentencing Follows 2018 Mardi Gras Double Killing
On December 12, 2025, Groves stood before Judge Dennis Waldron to face sentencing for the murders of Jamar Robinson and Byron Jackson, who were shot and killed in New Orleans’ 9th Ward during Mardi Gras celebrations in 2018. Prosecutors noted that Groves showed no remorse as the court imposed two back-to-back life sentences, ensuring he will never be released.
Judge Waldron sharply criticized Groves for the “chaos and fear” caused by his escape and the lasting trauma inflicted on the victims’ families, describing the crimes as “a ruthless act of violence that devastated two households and shook the community.”
Additional Sentences Expected on Related Charges
Before his escape, Groves had already been convicted of second-degree murder and other violent offenses related to the 2018 shooting, including injuries suffered by two additional victims. Now, he faces further penalties tied to his breakout, including:
• Up to 50 additional years for attempted murder charges
• Added time for escape-related offenses
• Multiple pending counts tied to his time on the run
Prosecutors stated that the extra charges reflect the severity of his actions, both during the original crime and throughout the months he evaded capture.
Case Highlights Ongoing Concerns About Jail Security
Groves’ escape renewed concerns about systemic failures inside the Orleans Parish detention system. Local leaders have called for a top-down review of protocols, staffing, and structural vulnerabilities that allowed a high-risk inmate to flee.
Authorities say additional findings will be released as the investigation into the escape continues.
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