OAN Staff Cory Hawkins
11:44 AM – Saturday, January 31, 2026
Less than 24 hours after their escape, all eight inmates who fled the rural Riverbend Detention Center have been apprehended, ending the Louisiana State Police’s manhunt.
“Thank you to the@LAStatePolice and local law enforcement for the quick apprehension of these 8 escapees.” Governor Jeff Landry posted on X on Saturday. “Justice will be served.”
Court records indicate the inmates were all held on serious charges, including murder, aggravated assault with a firearm, and aggravated flight from an officer.
All eight inmates have been captured—Destin Brogan, 22, Kolin Loney, 21, Krisean Salinas, 21, Kevin Slaughter, 25, Kopelon Vicknair, 19, Hugo Molina, 27, Trenton Taplin, 29, and Savion Wheeler, 31.
A manhunt was immediately launched on Friday, with multiple authorities collaborating to swiftly track down the escapees.
“I have been in contact with East Carroll Parish Sheriff Wydette Williams and Louisiana Sheriffs’ Association President Kevin Cobb, and have offered the full assistance of my office, including the Fugitive Apprehension Unit. I am actively monitoring the situation.” Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill posted in a statement on X on Friday.
Louisiana State Police led the manhunt, supported by East Carroll Parish Sheriff’s Office and other local and federal agencies. Searches were conducted in rural areas near Lake Providence, but a statewide search was planned if needed.
“Do not approach under any circumstances,” the state police wrote in a statement. “If you observe or have information regarding their whereabouts, contact law enforcement immediately.”
Residents were told to secure their vehicles, lock doors, and report anything unusual. Additional injuries or crimes linked to the escapees have not yet been reported.
Three of the prisoners were recaptured just hours after the escape was discovered, suggesting a quick police response in some areas. The remaining five posed a challenge for authorities due to the harsh terrain and a potential escape plan before the prisoners’ disappearance.
This recent escape fits into a pattern of jailbreaks in Louisiana in recent years, underscoring major issues, such as aging infrastructure, understaffing, and security protocol issues. These jailbreaks exposed major vulnerabilities, such as weak perimeters, delayed headcounts and possible corruption.
Louisiana’s prison system has faced relentless criticism in the last decade for overcrowding and maintenance issues, contributing to prison escapes.
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