Two women have been caught and are facing serious charges for allegedly helping inmates escape from the Orleans Parish Correctional Center. These ten inmates, which included a murder suspect, managed to break free in a well-planned escape late one Friday night. The Louisiana State Police have identified the women as Cortnie Harris, 32, and Corvanntay Baptiste, 38, who are now charged with assisting these fugitives.
Reports indicate that Harris and Baptiste could each face up to five years in prison if they are found guilty. It’s been revealed that one of the women offered the escapees food and a place to stay, while the other acted as a getaway driver. These details were shared widely, including on social media, highlighting the seriousness of their involvement.
According to investigators, Harris had been in touch with one of the inmates who still remains free. Allegedly, she drove two of the escapees to various locations around New Orleans. However, the authorities have not disclosed exactly which fugitives she helped.
In Baptiste’s case, she is said to have been in contact with Corey Boyd, a murder suspect who was captured earlier this week. Police claim that Baptiste used social media and phone calls to stay in touch with Boyd. She reportedly helped him with food while he was hiding from law enforcement.
Boyd was awaiting trial for allegedly killing a man during a car burglary in 2023. After several days on the run, Boyd was captured in New Orleans. His capture was a critical part of the ongoing efforts to bring all escapees back into custody.
Officials have yet to confirm if Harris and Baptiste knew each other or if they acted independently. Both women are currently held at the Plaquemines Parish Detention Center. Their arrests add to the growing list of those accused of aiding the escapees, which includes a jail employee named Sterling Williams.
Williams, aged 33, was arrested previously for his role in the escape. Authorities believe he turned off the water supply to the inmates’ cells, enabling them to remove a toilet from the wall. This allowed the escapees to create a hole and make their escape.
Once outside, the fugitives reportedly scaled a barbed wire fence and ran across a nearby highway. They eventually disappeared into a residential area, where they changed their clothes to avoid detection. As of now, five of the ten escapees have been recaptured by the authorities.
The remaining five fugitives are still at large and are considered extremely dangerous. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has emphasized the risk they pose, labeling them as “armed and dangerous.” The search for these escapees involves multiple agencies working tirelessly to ensure public safety.
The Louisiana State Police have made it clear that anyone who helps these fugitives will face serious consequences. “Those who choose to assist or conceal these individuals are violating the law and will be held accountable,” they said. It’s a strong message aimed at deterring people from aiding the fugitives.
“Harboring fugitives threatens the safety of our communities and will not be tolerated,” the authorities added. The investigation continues, and the pressure is on to locate and apprehend the remaining escapees. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of law and order.
The cooperation between various law enforcement agencies is crucial in tracking down the escapees. As the search intensifies, officials are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. The safety of the community is the top priority as the hunt for the fugitives continues.
In the meantime, there’s a sense of relief that some of the escapees are back behind bars. However, the urgency to find the remaining individuals is palpable. The authorities are leaving no stone unturned in their efforts to bring this situation to a close.
The involvement of community members in aiding the fugitives raises concerns about loyalty and trust. It’s a troubling aspect that the authorities are keen to address. The message is clear: aiding criminals is a crime in itself and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.
As the investigation progresses, the focus remains on capturing the escapees and restoring order. The law enforcement agencies are committed to ensuring that justice is served. Their dedication is unwavering as they work around the clock on this case.
The incident has sparked discussions on prison security and the measures needed to prevent such occurrences. It’s a complex issue, but one that demands attention to safeguard communities. The lessons learned from this escape will likely shape future policies and practices.
The public’s cooperation and support play a vital role in resolving this situation. As authorities work to close this chapter, they continue to rely on tips and information from the community. The joint effort between law enforcement and the public is essential in keeping neighborhoods safe.
Erica Carlin is an independent journalist, opinion writer and contributor to several news and opinion sources. She is based in Georgia.