Louisiana jail escapees charged with violence

Authorities reported that several inmates facing serious criminal charges managed to escape from a Louisiana jail by removing concrete blocks from a deteriorating section of the wall. The break occurred at the St. Landry Parish Jail, located roughly 150 miles from New Orleans, and was discovered on the morning of December 3.

Sheriff Bobby J. Guidroz explained that three inmates identified the weakened wall and gradually removed enough blocks to create an opening large enough for their escape. They then improvised with sheets and other materials to climb down the wall, drop onto a roof, and descend to the ground.

Following the breakout, one inmate, 26-year-old Joseph Allen Harrington, was quickly located. Tragically, Harrington took his own life after being found, according to Port Barre Police Chief Deon Boudreaux. The remaining two escapees, 24-year-olds Keith Eli and Johnathan Jevon Joseph, are still at large.

Eli faces charges of attempted second-degree murder, while Joseph is charged with first-degree rape as a principal, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and multiple firearms violations. Sheriff Guidroz urged the public not to confront the fugitives and to immediately contact 911 or local authorities if they are spotted.

Earlier in 2025, the New Orleans jail experienced a series of escape incidents, including ten inmates who broke out by tearing a toilet and sink from a wall, as well as cases of mistaken releases. Other Louisiana facilities also faced escapes, prompting reviews and temporary suspensions of staff responsible for security lapses.

Authorities continue to pursue Eli and Joseph as the search remains active.

Author: Zoe Harrison