Nationwide — Sterling Williams, a 33-year-old maintenance worker at the Orleans Justice Center, has been arrested in connection with the escape of 10 inmates from the facility last Friday. Authorities say Williams, who worked in jail maintenance, played a key role in enabling the jailbreak and now faces multiple felony charges.
According to WLBT, Williams was booked by law enforcement officials on Monday, May 19, on 10 counts of principal to simple escape and one count of malfeasance in office. Investigators say he allegedly shut off the water supply to a cell where the inmates escaped, potentially disabling a key safety mechanism. After being processed, Williams was transferred to another detention facility for security reasons.
In court on Tuesday, an Orleans Parish magistrate judge set Williams’ bond at $1.1 million—$100,000 for each count. Should he be released on bond, Williams will be required to wear an ankle monitor and remain under strict 24-hour home confinement, with exceptions only for court or medical visits. He reportedly told investigators that he was threatened by inmate Antoine Massey, who allegedly warned he would “shank” Williams if he didn’t comply.
Surveillance footage revealed the inmates pried open a door, then used a hole behind a toilet to access a wall cavity and exit through a supply dock. Authorities said the unit’s security systems were compromised—three surveillance cameras were offline—and admitted the escape was aided by faulty locks and possible staff collaboration.
The case has sparked outrage and concern as six of the 10 escaped inmates remain at large. A citywide manhunt is underway, and the New Orleans City Council’s Criminal Justice Committee met Tuesday morning to demand answers. Orleans Parish Sheriff Susan Hutson acknowledged failures in jail security and accepted full responsibility.
Four inmates have been recaptured, including Gary Price, who was arrested Monday by State Troopers in New Orleans East. Price, jailed on attempted first-degree murder charges, was seen on home surveillance surrendering peacefully. The four recaptured inmates—Price, Kendell Myles, Robert Moody, and Dkenan Dennis—have since been transferred to Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola.
The six fugitives still on the run are considered armed and dangerous:
Derrick Groves, convicted of killing two people and injuring two others on Mardi Gras Day in 2018.
Antoine Massey, with a long history of escapes dating back to 2007, currently wanted for domestic abuse, vehicle theft, kidnapping, and rape.
Lenton Vanburen, accused in a 2021 homicide in New Orleans East.
Jermaine Donald, facing charges of attempted second-degree murder, weapons violations, and obstruction of justice.
Leo Tate, awaiting trial on multiple burglary, drug, and firearm charges.
Corey Boyd, accused of fatally shooting Brandon Fees during a 2024 car burglary.
Officials continue to urge the public to remain alert and report any sightings or information to law enforcement as the investigation unfolds.