Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Slidell Man Sentenced for Wire Fraud in Aftermath of BP Oil SpillRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RONALD BACKES, age 48, of Slidell, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to wire fraud relating to an application for financial assistance in the aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced BACKES to one year of home detention to be followed by four years’ probation. Judge Lemelle also ordered BACKES to pay $192,000 in restitution.
The Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) made disaster assistance money available to individuals affected by the oil spill resulting from the Deepwater Horizon explosion in the Gulf of Mexico. The GCCF required individuals to verify loss of income. According to court documents, in August and September 2010 BACKES falsely represented to the GCCF that he earned $156,000 annually from a shrimping business and that another individual earned $36,000 annually as BACKES’s employee. To support these claims, BACKES created and submitted to the GCCF false receipts of shrimp sales. As a result of BACKES’s conduct, GCCF issued checks totaling $192,000.
This case was brought as part of this District’s partnership with the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF), a nationwide initiative to protect available funds and assistance for those victims of both natural and man-made disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and the recent Gulf oil spill. If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, you can contact the NCDF by either calling the hotline at (866) 720-5721, faxing (225) 334-4707, emailing at [email protected] or in writing to National Center for Disaster Fraud, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon was in charge of this prosecution.
Raceland Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JAMIE PLAISANCE, age 38, of Raceland, pled guilty today to a one-count Indictment for possession of child pornography.
On March 16, 2015, Special Agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, arrested PLAISANCE during the execution of a federal search warrant at his Raceland home. Agents found PLAISANCE in possession of several items, including an Apple I-Touch and cellular phones that contained images depicting the sexual victimization of prepubescent children. PLAISANCE appeared in federal court on March 17, 2015, and was detained by a United States Magistrate Judge.
According to court records, PLAISANCE has a prior federal conviction for possession of child pornography.
Due to his prior conviction, PLAISANCE faces a mandatory minimum penalty of ten years imprisonment up to twenty years, followed by up to a life term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman set sentencing for December 9, 2015.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals, who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is in charge of the prosecution.
Kenner Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that STEVEN GAETA, age 41, of Kenner, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information for crimes involving the possession of child pornography.
According to court records, on November 25, 2014, Special Agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) executed a federal search warrant at GAETA’s Kenner home. HSI agents determined Gaeta used Peer to Peer file sharing programs to possess approximately 120 videos and 500 images depicting the sexual victimization of children.
GAETA faces a maximum penalty of twenty years, followed by up to a life term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. He can also be required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration Notification Act. U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing for November 18, 2015.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is in charge of the prosecution.
Metairie Man Charged with Trafficking of Counterfeit GoodsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BOUBACAR DIALLO, age 35, of Metairie, was charged in a one-count Bill of Information with trafficking in counterfeit goods.
According to the Bill of Information, on March 12, 2015, DIALLO trafficked and attempted to traffic in a variety of counterfeit goods, including approximately 111 pairs of “True Religion” blue jeans, 166 “Michael Kors” purses, 67 “Michael Kors” pocketbooks, 87 “Michael Kors” watches, 6 pair of “Nike” tennis shoes, 9 pair of “Polo” pants, and 8 pair of “Polo” shirts.
If convicted, DIALLO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
United States Attorney Polite reiterated that the Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Louisiana Department of Justice / Office of the Attorney General Investigation Division and Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DANIEL FIGUEROA-MUNGUIA, age 30, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information charging him with illegal reentry into the United States.
U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced FIGUEROA-MUNGUIA to time served and a $100 special assessment. FIGUEROA-MUNGUIA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to the court documents, March 30, 2015, FIGUEROA-MUNGUIA was found in the United States after having been deported on April 29, 2011.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Transportation of Stolen VanRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that FRANK MIKE, JR., age 46, of New Orleans, pled guilty as charged today to an Indictment charging interstate transportation of a stolen 2010 Dodge Caravan van from Louisiana to Georgia.
According to court records, on February 19, 2014, family members reported to the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Department that Kenneth and Lakeitha Joseph of Reserve, were missing. A relative also indicated that she loaned her 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan to the Josephs but that the van had not been returned. On February 27, 2014, the missing 2010 Dodge Grand Caravan was recovered by the Fulton County Police Department in College Park, Georgia, at an apartment complex. Investigators discovered that van had been parked at the Travelodge Hotel located in College Park. On February 21, 2014, video surveillance at the Travelodge showed MIKE driving the van into the hotel parking lot.
In March 2014, the bodies of Kenneth and Lakeitha Joseph were found in the Intercostal Waterway in New Orleans East. The New Orleans Parish Coroner determined that their deaths resulted from drowning. Later forensic testing revealed that blood samples taken from the stolen van matched the DNA of both victims.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance scheduled sentencing for December 16, 2015. MIKE faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Orleans Police Department, the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Fulton County Police Department, the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, and the St. John the Baptist Parish District Attorney’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann is in charge of the prosecution.
Former New Orleans Traffic Court Chief Financial Officer Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that VANDALE THOMAS, age 41, a resident of Prairieville, was sentenced today after being convicted by a federal jury.
U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. sentenced THOMAS to thirty-six months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release to be served upon his release from prison. THOMAS was also ordered to make restitution in the amount of $684,065.53 to the City of New Orleans.
According to court records, after a week-long jury trial in October 2014, the former Chief Financial Officer at New Orleans Traffic Court (“Traffic Court”) was convicted on all 11 counts of theft, money laundering, and structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements. THOMAS was found guilty of three counts of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds resulting from his employment at Traffic Court. Evidence presented at trial established that on November 24, 2008, THOMAS and his accounting firm, Thomas & Thomas Accounting Services, LLC, were hired by Traffic Court to provide accounting and bookkeeping services. THOMAS’s initial agreement with Traffic Court allowed him to bill at a rate of $75.00 an hour and his contract was not to exceed $75,000 for a twelve month period. THOMAS’s billings exceeded $75,000 within the first few months of his agreement. On six additional occasions between November 24, 2008, and April 13, 2011, THOMAS received written authorization from the City of New Orleans and Traffic Court to expand the amount that he could bill. In total, the City and Traffic Court authorized THOMAS to submit invoices and receive compensation for accounting services in an amount not to exceed $627,000. However, subsequent audits by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office and the Office of the Inspector General for the City of New Orleans, and an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation revealed that THOMAS submitted 174 invoices and was issued 173 checks totaling $1,311,065.53.
THOMAS was also found guilty of three counts of laundering illegal funds obtained from Traffic Court. The jury found that on September 14 and September 24, 2010, THOMAS used illegally obtained money from Traffic Court to purchase casino chips in excess of $10,000 at a New Orleans casino and THOMAS used illegally obtained money from Traffic Court to make a down payment on an $80,000 Bentley GT Coupe.
Additionally, THOMAS was found guilty of five counts of structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements. According to the evidence and testimony presented during the trial, THOMAS used numerous bank branches in order to evade federal currency transaction reporting requirements. Specifically, THOMAS went to multiple bank locations in New Orleans and Baton Rouge to structure cash withdrawals in order to evade the currency transaction reporting requirement that all transactions over $10,000 be reported by financial institutions to the Internal Revenue Service.
“Mr. Thomas has been brought to justice for defrauding our local courts and the City of New Orleans,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “Corruption – wherever it is found in Southeast Louisiana – will not be tolerated.”
“The residents of New Orleans and the surrounding areas are fed up with seeing individuals like Thomas steal public funds to support their personal lifestyles of extravagance,” stated Jerome R. McDuffie, Special Agent in Charge, IRS – Criminal Investigations. “The court echoed that sentiment today with the sentence they imposed on Thomas for his actions against the citizens of this great city. IRS-CI will continue to aggressively pursue individuals who engage in the theft of public funds, and will seek to have them prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
“Vandale Thomas’ defrauding of the New Orleans Traffic Court was first identified by the OIG as it conducted an evaluation of the Court in 2011,” stated New Orleans Inspector General Ed Quatrevaux. OIG investigators continued to work with our federal partners to bring Mr. Thomas to justice and secure restitution for the City.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations Division, and the New Orleans Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Brian M. Klebba, Matthew Payne, Marquest Meeks, and Andre Lagarde were in charge of the prosecution.
Burnell Allen, Leader of the Allen Gang, Sentenced to Life in PrisonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BURNELL ALLEN, age 35, and SONNY ALLEN, age 32, both of New Orleans, were sentenced today after being convicted by a federal jury.
U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. sentenced BURNELL ALLEN to life imprisonment for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base “crack.” SONNY ALLEN was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment for being a member of that crack conspiracy and four 120 concurrent sentences for distributing crack.
Evidence was presented at trial that the defendants grew up in and around the former Melpomene Housing Development, engaged in high volume street level drug dealing over the course of several years. The majority of this activity took place near an older relative’s home.
“As we did in the prosecution of the Allen gang, our Office will continue to pursue the harshest penalties possible against those who terrorize our communities through violence,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite.
ATF Special Agent in Charge Constance Hester stated, “The Citizens of New Orleans, in particular Central City, can be assured that ATF will continue to utilize all available resources to pursue the most violent offenders who use firearms to conduct criminal activity.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as part of the metro area’s Multi-Agency Gang Unit (MAG) in investigating this matter. As an integral component of NOLA FOR LIFE’s Group Violence Reduction Strategy, the MAG Unit consists of a partnership with New Orleans Police Department (NOPD); Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office (DA); Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO); Louisiana State Police (LSP); Parole Board of the Louisiana Department of Corrections; United States Attorney’s Office (USAO); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); United States Marshal’s Service (USMS); and the United States Probation & Parole Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Toomey and Andre Lagarde were in charge of the prosecution.
Bogalusa Chiropractor Sentenced for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DAVID LEE KILLEN, age 44, a resident of Covington and a former chiropractor, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to health care fraud.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced KILLEN to 44 months imprisonment, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. KILLEN is presently in state custody serving 60 months on charges of domestic abuse battery involving strangulation. Judge Vance ordered that all but 24 months of the federal sentence be served concurrently with the state sentence. The Court ordered restitution in the amount of $183,674.14 to five different insurance companies.
According to court documents, KILLEN owned and operated Back on Track Clinic, LLC, a chiropractic clinic in Bogalusa. KILLEN billed insurers for chiropractic services, back braces, and X-rays that he did not provide. KILLEN also billed insurers for expensive allergy tests, the antigen leukocyte antibody test, otherwise known as an “ALCAT.” KILLEN either did not render the ALCATs or used it to incentivize his patients, bartering for reduction in co-payments or erasing co-payment balances if the patient would agree to the test. KILLEN also fraudulently billed insurers for services using physician provider numbers without authorization, or on days when the physicians were not working in his clinic.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Health and Human Service’s Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrice Harris Sullivan.
Houma Interpreter Pleads Guilty on Day of TrialRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TRINA MARIE BOURG, age 45, of Houma, entered a plea of guilty to all five counts of a Superseding Indictment for crimes involving the solicitation of illegal payments from undocumented clients and their family members.
BOURG faces a term of incarceration of up to of twenty years and a fine of $250,000 per count. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for November 4, 2015.
According to court records, on May 7, 2014, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) received information that BOURG, who worked as a Spanish language interpreter contract employee for the Office of the District Defender for the 32nd Judicial District for Terrebonne Parish (“Public Defender’s Office”), was soliciting illegal payments from undocumented clients. According to a Factual Basis filed today in federal court, BOURG, while providing Spanish interpreting services for attorneys employed by the Public Defender’s Office, identified clients facing criminal charges who were subject to potential removal from the United States. BOURG then initiated contact with the client, or the client’s family, outside of the presence or knowledge of their court appointed attorney and falsely represented to the client or the client’s family that for a certain amount of money, she could bribe federal immigration officials not to seek federal prosecution or initiate removal proceedings against the client. BOURG charged the client, or the client’s family, approximately $2,000 to $4,000 and said she would use the money to pay federal immigration officials in order to secure the client’s release from immigration custody. BOURG pled guilty to knowingly devising a scheme and artifice to defraud undocumented Hispanic aliens and through false material misrepresentation was able to accomplish her scheme through lies, misrepresentations, coercion, and threats.
In 2011 and again in 2014, BOURG solicited illegal payments totaling more than $5,000 from Client “A” and his family members. BOURG admitted to employing threats and intimidation to coerce the family members into paying BOURG.
The Superseding Indictment also alleged that for a payment of $12,000 to $20,000, BOURG offered to marry one of her clients in order to improve his immigration status. Further, the Superseding Indictment alleged that BOURG attempted to have a client transfer the title of his vehicle and other property to BOURG.
It is important to note that no federal immigration officials have been implicated in this investigation, nor is it believed that any federal officials were complicit in BOURG’s crimes. BOURG was originally indicted in August 2014.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U. S. Department of Homeland Security-HSI (McAllen, TX and Houma, LA offices), the Louisiana State Police-Criminal Investigation Division, and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba and Assistant U.S. Attorney Marquest Meeks are in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JUAN VASQUEZ-ALVARADO, age 47, a citizen of Honduras, was charged today in a one-count Indictment with illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to the Indictment, VASQUEZ-ALVARADO reentered the United States after having been previously deported on September 5, 2002. If convicted, VASQUEZ-ALVARADO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Polite reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution
FnD Gang Member Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRIAN BENSON, a/k/a “Dub,” a/k/a “Dubba,” age 31, of New Orleans, pled guilty today in the racketeering conspiracy case involving the Frenchmen/Derbigny gang, or “FnD.”
BENSON pled guilty to two counts of the Third Superseding Indictment. Count 1 charged BENSON with Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy. The maximum sentence for Count 1 is a term of life imprisonment. BENSON also pled guilty to Count 2, charging conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and 280 grams or more of crack cocaine, for which BENSON faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison and a maximum of life imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing on November 4, 2015.
According to court documents, FnD constituted a racketeering “enterprise” under federal law. BENSON, as a member of this enterprise, conspired to commit numerous overt acts in furtherance of this enterprise. These acts included the distribution of illegal narcotics, such as heroin and crack cocaine. FnD members used a store, the Frenchmen Meat Market, located at Frenchmen and N. Derbigny streets to sell drugs. As set forth in plea documents, agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) raided the store in August 2013 pursuant to a search warrant. Agents seized video surveillance recordings from the store that showed BENSON and other members of FnD selling drugs over the course of five days.
CRYSTAL SCOTT, RICHMOND SMITH, GRALEN BENSON, and JEREMIAH JACKSON have previously pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing. TRAVIS SCOTT, STANLEY SCOTT, SHAWN SCOTT, and AKEIN SCOTT are scheduled for trial on October 19, 2015.
The Indictment is a product of an ongoing investigation into the violent acts in furtherance of the drug trafficking by the FnD gang. It represents the continued coordinated effort of the federal and state law enforcement authorities within the Multi-Agency Gang (“MAG”), including the United States Attorney’s Office, the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, Special Agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”), and officers of the New Orleans Police Department. Federal and local authorities also utilized tips through the Crimestoppers Program in the successful investigation of these crimes.
Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Payne and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian Ebarb, who is assigned from the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, are in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CARLOS RAMIREZ-VASQUEZ, age 38, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced CARLOS RAMIREZ-VASQUEZ to time served, and a $100 special assessment. RAMIREZ-VASQUEZ will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on or about March 29, 2015, CARLOS RAMIREZ-VASQUEZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about April 17, 2000.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González was in charge of the prosecution.
Franklinton Man Charged with Structuring over $100,000 in Financial Transactions to Avoid Federal Reporting RequirementsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JERRY COX, age 72, of Franklinton, was charged in a one-count Bill of Information with structuring financial transactions to avoid federal reporting requirements.
According to the Bill of Information, in September 2011, COX made, and caused to be made, a series of cash withdrawals from Citizens Savings Bank and Resource Bank that were designed to evade certain reporting requirements under federal law. COX did so as part of a pattern of activity involving more than $100,000 in a twelve-month period. Specifically, COX caused a series of seven withdrawals between September 20, 2011 and October 11, 2011, in amounts between $7,650 and $9,500.
If convicted, COX faces a maximum term of not more than ten years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Defendant from Operation “Wild Wild East” Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that New Orleans resident BETH MARIE NGUYEN, age 38, pled guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over one kilogram of heroin.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier will sentence NGUYEN on November 12, 2015. NGUYEN is facing 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, as well as a possible fine of up to $10,000,000.
NGUYEN was one of twelve defendants charged in a 23-count indictment on July 25, 2014. According to court documents, this indictment sprung from an investigation into a heroin-trafficking organization operating in New Orleans East. This organization was responsible for distributing at least 15 kilograms of heroin in the New Orleans area. As part of the arrests in this case, federal agents have seized from the twelve defendants approximately $1,200,000 in assets (a combination of vehicles, currency, jewelry, and real property) as proceeds made from the sale of heroin.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.
Three Defendants Sentenced in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ARTHUR MCKINNIS, age 25, NARCISSE TROTTER, age 44, and AARONISHA LEWIS, age 26, all of New Orleans, were sentenced today for their roles in a heroin conspiracy. MCKINNIS pled guilty in March to conspiring to distribute at least one kilogram of heroin in the New Orleans area, and TROTTER and LEWIS pled to charges of using cell phones in furtherance of the heroin trafficking conspiracy.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced MCKINNIS to 172 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. The Court sentenced TROTTER to 42 months in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment. LEWIS was sentenced to 24 months in prison, to be followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
On June 24, 2015, U.S. District Judge Engelhardt sentenced BOLDEN to 300 months in prison for heroin distribution and distribution of heroin resulting in an overdose death. NOEL JONES received a sentenced of 162 months in prison for distribution of heroin. TAYLOR, PERCY DEPRON, ERNEST DIAZ, and MELVIN SMITH are awaiting sentencing. THEODORE GRIFFIN and TREY MITCHELL are scheduled for trial on September 14, 2015.
According to court documents, the investigation of this trafficking organization included multiple court-authorized wiretaps by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Orleans Police Department High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group, including taps of cell phones used by dealers to communicate with suppliers, other co-conspirators, and customers. DEA worked together with agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation to conduct numerous undercover purchases of heroin, surveillance operations, searches, witness debriefings, records analyses, and other investigative techniques to uncover and dismantle the heroin trafficking activities of the group.
The investigation showed that the defendants had been using a residence in New Orleans East as a base of operations to meet with heroin suppliers, maintain a heroin stash, and provide heroin to other dealers.
Numerous daily heroin customers also called the ‘dope’ phones used by these defendants every day to order heroin. Typically one of the dealers would answer these calls, ask the caller how much heroin he or she wanted to buy, and direct the caller to drive to a gas station or other commercial location in the New Orleans East neighborhood. Through subsequent calls and then visual contact between the customer and dealer, the dealer would direct the customer to rendezvous in a parking lot or on a side street near the commercial location to conduct the heroin sale.
According to the record, in July 2013, a court-authorized wiretap of the ‘dope’ phone used by defendant TERENCE TAYLOR intercepted a series of calls relating to the sale of heroin to a person who had recently been through treatment for heroin addiction, and who died later that day as a result of a heroin overdose. Intercepted calls helped to demonstrate that TAYLOR negotiated this particular sale of heroin and that defendant MALCOLM BOLDEN subsequently met with the decedent to complete the sale.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the DEA New Orleans Police Department High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group, the FBI, and the ATF, with the assistance of the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office, the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael B. Redmann and Mark A. Miller are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Maliciously Conveying False InformationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JAHVAR HOOKS, age 31, of New Orleans, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty a one-count superseding Indictment charging him with maliciously conveying false information in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(e).
U.S. District Judge Lance Africk sentenced HOOKS to time served and a three-year term of supervised release. HOOKS has been in federal custody since his arrest on August 20, 2013. According to court records, from August 12, 2013 through August 19, 2013, HOOKS made in excess of forty telephonic bomb threats. Victims of these threatening phone calls include the Orleans Parish Criminal District Court and the New Orleans Municipal/Traffic Court along with schools, hotels, casinos, and other government buildings. In an interview with officers of the New Orleans Police Department, HOOKS admitted to making the telephone calls.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy was in charge of the prosecution.
Metairie Man Pleads Guilty to Recording Movies in a Local Theater and Criminal Infringement of a CopyrightRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DERRICK HOLLOWAY, age 31, of Marrero, pled guilty today to both counts of a two-count Bill of Information charging him with unauthorized recording of a motion picture and criminal infringement of a copyright.
According to court documents, in 2014, HOLLOWAY used a digital camcorder to record approximately ten first-run motion pictures at the AMC Westbank Palace, located in Harvey, including When the Game Stands Tall and The Equalizer. HOLLOWAY subsequently duplicated and sold copies of some or all of the motion pictures. Additionally, HOLLOWAY manufactured and sold CDs and DVDs containing copyrighted musical works and motion pictures out from his business, Gold Teeth Kingz, located in Harvey. Specifically, during the execution of a search warrant at Gold Teeth Kingz in early January 2015, law enforcement authorities found and seized approximately 2,932 pirated DVDs containing copyrighted motion pictures, including When the Game Stands Tall and American Sniper, and 749 pirated CDs containing copyrighted musical works, including “Kingdom Come,” by Jay-Z and “Dangerously in Love,” by Beyoncé.
HOLLOWAY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than three years as to Count 1 and five years as to Count 2, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing for November 4, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Member of Young Melph Mafia (YMM) Neighborhood Gang Sentenced to 18 Years for Drug and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RUBEN GEIGER, age 22, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced today for his participation in a drug conspiracy and a conspiracy to possess and use firearms in connection with the drug trafficking activities of a local gang known as the “Young Melph Mafia” or “YMM.”
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced GEIGER to 220 months imprisonment, to be followed by four years of supervised release.
GEIGER was originally charged in a five-count Superseding Indictment with nine other YMM members, who frequented the area of the former Melpomene Housing Project. According to the factual basis filed in open court, GEIGER and other YMM members participated in a wide ranging conspiracy to distribute street level quantities of crack cocaine in Central City and participated in several acts of violence against rival gangs, such as the 110ers. The members of the YMM were associates of the members of the Allen family, who were also indicted and convicted in federal court last year. Three members of the 110ers gang were convicted on January 29, 2015, in Orleans Parish Criminal Court for the Briana Allen shooting.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in leading this investigation along with members of the NOPD led Multi-Agency Gang Unit (MAG UNIT). Assistant United States Attorneys Edward J. Rivera and Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. were in charge of the prosecution.
Laplace Men Plead Guilty to Fraudulent Claims for Oil Spill CompensationRead the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana announced that HARDELL MACK, age 43, and MICHEGEL BUTLER, age 40, residents of LaPlace, each pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to fraudulent applications they made or caused to be made to the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (“GCCF”), for financial assistance during the aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
According to court documents, beginning in or about September 2010, MACK and BUTLER recruited claimants, requested their personal information, and submitted or caused to be submitted fraudulent GCCF claim forms generated online and transmitted to the GCCF falsely stating that the claimants worked as non-owner captain/deckhands on a shrimp boat in Venice, Louisiana, and suffered economic loss. Based on the fraudulent documentation, the GCCF issued approximately $65,300 to undeserving individuals. MACK and BUTLER shared in the claims proceeds.
MACK and BUTLER each face a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. MACK owes restitution in the amount of $36,500, and BUTLER owes restitution in the amount of $28,800. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for December 16, 2015.
This case was brought as part of this District’s partnership with the National Center for Disaster Fraud (“NCDF”), a nationwide initiative to protect available funds and assistance for those victims of both natural and man-made disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and the recent Gulf oil spill. If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, you can contact the NCDF by either calling the hotline at (866) 720-5721, faxing (225) 334-4707, emailing at [email protected], or in writing to National Center for Disaster Fraud, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana praised the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
Illinois Man Sentenced for Violating the Lacey ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KEITH CANTORE, age 35, of Monee, Illinois, was sentenced today for violating the Lacey Act by attempting to purchase threatened turtles that were captured in violation of state law.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced CANTORE to 41 months incarceration, to be followed by three years of supervised release and $100 special assessment. Additionally, CANTORE was ordered to pay approximately $41,000 in restitution.
According to court records, CANTORE was charged with three counts of purchasing and/or attempting to purchase threatened species of turtles that were illegally captured from the wild. CANTORE pled guilty to attempted purchase of 100 North American Wood Turtles for $40,000.
According to court documents, the charges against CANTORE stemmed from undercover operations conducted by agents from the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Court documents also note that CANTORE was previously convicted of federal charges related to the illegal sale of turtles and that he continued to illegally sell turtles while on bond for the current charges.
“The illicit trade in threatened and endangered species represents the destructive results of unfettered greed,” said Special Agent in Charge Raymond R. Parmer, head of ICE Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. “The poaching of Wood Turtles has had a significant negative impact on its population in the wild. In effect, this defendant was willing to help drive this species to extinction to make a few bucks. Law enforcement agencies like HSI and our partners at the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and U.S. Postal Inspection Service are eager to work with conservation services to stop the illegal trade in wildlife to ensure future generations get to enjoy these species in their native habitats.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Homeland Security Investigations, and the United States Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller was in charge of the prosecution.
Two Plead Guilty to Multi-State Heroin Conspiracy, Now Face Decades in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that STANLEY FULTON, age 39, of New Orleans, and JASON PAYNE, age 37, of Youngstown, Ohio, yesterday became the last of nine defendants under a Superseding Indictment to plead guilty to a multi-state conspiracy to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
According to court documents, Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) agents, after conducting a series of court-authorized wire intercepts on the cellular phones of New Orleans area heroin dealers, identified co-defendant FREDRICK DOUGLAS BROOKS III as a Houston-based heroin trafficker who was distributing kilogram quantities of heroin at a time to FULTON in New Orleans and PAYNE in Youngstown, using narcotics and bulk cash couriers who have already pled guilty in the case.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier scheduled sentencing for October 29, 2015. FULTON faces a sentence of twenty years to life, and PAYNE faces a sentence of ten years to life.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the DEA New Orleans Police Department High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in investigating this matter with the assistance of the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office, the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael B. Redmann and Mark A. Miller were in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced in Marijuana and Firearm CaseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BILLY WASHINGTON, age 34, of New Orleans, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a Bill of Information charging possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced WASHINGTON to a term of imprisonment of twelve months and a day, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment.
According to court documents, Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) agents executed a search warrant at WASHINGTON’s residence, a convicted felon, and recovered a semi-automatic pistol and approximately three-quarters of a pound of marijuana.
Court records revealed that WASHINGTON was convicted on May 19, 2003, of possession of heroin in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. As such, he was prohibited from possessing firearms by both state and federal law.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann was in charge of the prosecution.
Harvey Woman Pleads Guilty to Disaster Fraud and TheftRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JENNIFER WILLIAMS, 33, of Harvey, pled guilty today to a two-count Indictment charging her with one count of disaster fraud and five counts of theft from the United States.
According to court records, WILLIAMS filed an application with the Department of Homeland Security Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) on or about October 15, 2012, following Hurricane Isaac. WILLIAMS claimed that she needed rental assistance due to damage in her home and made false statements to FEMA with regard to where she was temporarily living. After receiving a total of $17,040 in rental assistance, Department of Homeland Security investigators determined that WILLIAMS in fact never rented another property after Hurricane Isaac and that her application and supporting documentation was false.
U.S. District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown set sentencing on November 5, 2015. WILIAMS faces a possible maximum sentence of thirty years, to be followed by up to five years of supervised release as to the disaster fraud count and/or a fine of $250,000. WILLIAMS is facing up to ten years imprisonment, to be followed by up to three years of supervised release as to each of the theft of government funds counts and/or a fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Fraud Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Des Allemands Woman Charged with Mail Fraud in Aftermath of BP Oil SpillRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MELISSA ANN DURAN, age 42, Des Allemands, was charged today in a one-count Indictment with mail fraud.
According to court documents, the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) made disaster assistance money available to individuals and businesses affected by the oil spill resulting from the Deepwater Horizon explosion that occurred on April 20, 2010. The GCCF required individuals to verify loss of income. On August 23, 2010, DURAN applied for disaster assistance funds, representing that she worked as seafood process for a commercial fisherman during for two years before the oil spill. However, DURAN had never worked as a seafood processor for the stated commercial fisherman, and she submitted or caused to be submitted false documentation to establish her false earnings. Based on DURAN’s fraudulent application, DURAN received approximately $33,800 to which she was not entitled.
If convicted, DURAN faces a maximum penalty of twenty years, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release following imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
U.S. Attorney Polite Announces Multi-Agency Initiative to Remove Illegal Guns from School ZonesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that his Office – in partnership with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Crimestoppers – will increase efforts to investigate and prosecute federal laws prohibiting the possession of firearms in school zones throughout Southeast Louisiana. In particular, the federal gun free school zone statute makes it a crime to unlawfully possess a firearm within 1000 feet of every elementary and secondary school. The statute is narrowly tailored, and does not forbid otherwise lawful possession: on private property, by law enforcement officers acting in their official capacity, or by individuals licensed to carry firearms by the state of Louisiana.
U.S. Attorney Polite stated, “This is an underutilized federal statute that will assist us in removing illegal firearms from our streets, particularly as we are seeing spikes in violent crime. It carries a maximum punishment of 5 years in prison, which must be served consecutively to any other term of imprisonment. We need the public’s help in two ways: report illegal firearms to ATF or Crimestoppers and spread the message that unlawful possession of firearms near our children’s schools will lead to federal prison.”
To increase public awareness of this initiative, U.S. Attorney Polite also announced that the all of the agencies will host a roll-out event on Thursday, July 30, 2015, at Mildred Osborne Charter School, 6701 Curran Boulevard in New Orleans East. All are invited. Members of the law enforcement agencies will also canvas the school zone surrounding Osborne, to inform the community about the initiative’s work. Food and refreshments will be served.
Illegal Aliens Sentenced for Drug and Immigration ChargesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MARVIN SANTOS PERDOMO, age 33, DELSSY ADRIANA BANEGAS-ZOSA, age 31, and OLVIN SANTOS PERDOMO, age 26, all citizens of Honduras, were sentenced today for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and, in the case of BANEGAS-ZOSA and MARVIN SANTOS PERDOMO, reentry of an illegal alien.
On April 22, 2015, MARVIN SANTOS PERDOMO, DELSSY ADRIANA BANEGAS-ZOSA and OLVIN SANTOS PERDOMO pled guilty to conspiring to distribute and distribution of cocaine hydrochloride, a Schedule II controlled drug substance, and MARVIN SANTOS PERDOMO and DELSSY ADRIANA BANEGAS-ZOSA admitted to being illegal aliens found in the United States after being previously deported from the United States.
U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval sentenced MARVIN SANTOS PERDOMO and OLVIN SANTOS PERDOMO to 24 months incarceration, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Following their incarceration, both defendants will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings. DELSSY ADRIANA BANEGAS-ZOSA was sentenced to time served, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. BANEGAS-ZOSA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Jefferson Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller was in charge of the prosecution.
Indictment Unsealed Charging Three New Orleans East Residents with Federal Drug and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced the unsealing of an eleven-count Indictment yesterday charging LEROY SMITH, age 31, JAMIE JONES, age 32, and KENNETH MIXON, age 31, all of New Orleans East, with violations of federal drug and firearms laws. All of the defendants face the lead charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin, along with other substantive drug offenses. All of the defendants were charged with using a telephone in furtherance of their drug conspiracy. Defendants SMITH and JONES were also charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of the drug offenses. Finally, SMITH was charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
If convicted of the drug conspiracy, SMITH and JONES face a minimum sentence of 5 years incarceration, a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, and a minimum of four years of supervised release. On the drug conspiracy, MIXON faces a maximum sentence of 20 years incarceration, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, and a minimum of three years of supervised release. On the telephone counts, the defendants face a maximum sentence of 4 years incarceration, a fine of not more than $250,000, and a maximum of three years of supervised release. For possessing the firearms in furtherance of the drug offenses, SMITH and JONES face a minimum sentence of 5 years incarceration, a fine of not more than $250,000, and a maximum three years of supervised release. Lastly, on the felon in possession charge, SMITH faces a maximum sentence of 10 years incarceration, a fine of not more than $250,000, and a maximum three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.
Superseding Indictment Returned Against Former St. Bernard Deputy Sheriff and Second Individual for Drug Distribution and Obstruction ChargesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRANDON LICCIARDI, age 29 of Meraux, Louisiana, and ERIK NUNEZ, age 28, formerly of New Orleans, were charged today in a seven-count second superseding indictment. LICCIARDI, a former St. Bernard Deputy, was charged with Conspiracy to Distribute MDMA (Ecstasy) Alprazolam, Diazepam and Zolpidem with intent to commit rape and two counts of distributing these substances with intent to commit rape. LICCIARDI was also charged with two counts of Witness Tampering and one count of Impeding an Investigation. NUNEZ was charged with Conspiracy to Impede an Official Investigation. The maximum punishments for these offenses are as follows:
COUNT CHARGE DEFENDANT MAXIMUM PENALTIES1
18 U.S.C. 1512(b)(1); Tampering with a Witness
Brandon Licciardi
20 Years, $250,000 Fine, 3 Years Supervised Release.
2
18 U.S.C. 1512(b)(1); Tampering with a Witness
Brandon Licciardi
20 Years, $250,000 Fine, 3 Years Supervised Release.
3
18 U.S.C. 1512(c)(2); Impeding an Investigation
Brandon Licciardi
20 Years, $250,000 Fine, 3 Years Supervised Release.
4
18 U.S.C. 1512(k), Conspiracy to Impede an Investigation
Erik Nunez
20 Years, $250,000 Fine, 3 Years Supervised Release.
5
21 U.S.C. 846; Conspiracy to Distribute a Schedule IV Controlled Substance;
Brandon Licciardi
20 Years, $250,000 Fine, 3 Years Supervised Release.
6
21 U.S.C. 841(a)(1),(b)(1)(D) & (E)(7)(A); Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Schedule IV
Brandon Licciardi
20 Years, $250,000 Fine, 3 Years Supervised Release.
7
21 U.S.C. 841(a)(1),(b)(1)(D) & (E)(7)(A); Distribution of a Controlled Substance, Schedule IV
Brandon Licciardi
20 Years, $250,000 Fine, 3 Years Supervised Release.
U.S. Attorney Polite indicated that DARREN SHARPER was not named in the current superseding indictment as a result of his prior pleas of guilty to federal drug charges. U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that, at this time, the charges in the Second Superseding Indictment are merely allegations, and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter and thanked the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark A. Miller and Michael E. McMahon are in charge of the prosecution.
Woman Pleads Guilty to One Count of Aiding and Abetting Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that EVELYN ODOMS, age 64, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to one count of aiding and abetting health care fraud.
On March 12, 2015, ODOMS was indicted along with 18 other defendants in a 26-count Indictment charging approximately $30,052,295 in Medicare fraud and the BP fraud.
According to court documents, ABIDE billed Medicare for providing home health services to an ABIDE patient for approximately five years. During that time period, ODOMS, a licensed practical nurse, was supposed to teach the patient how to treat and handle different diagnoses. But ODOMS never observed the patient exhibit symptoms of the diagnoses and never taught the patient about the diagnoses. ODOMS falsely documented services she was supposed to provide to the patient, documentation that Medicare relied upon to regulate Medicare providers. ABIDE counted on ODOMS to compromise her independent medical observations and ethics to participate in the ongoing health care fraud scheme perpetrated by ABIDE and ODOMS’ co-defendants.
ODOMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for October 28, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrice Harris Sullivan, Sharan Lieberman and Andre Lagarde are in charge of the prosecution.
Evelyn Odoms Factual basis.pdf (690.93 KB)
Mississippi Woman Charged with Making False Statements to New Orleans Immigration CourtRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. announced that MARINA ARNEDO ROJAS-ZAYED, age 34, of Ocean Springs, Mississippi, was charged today in a Bill of Information for making false statements to an agency of the United States.
According to the Bill of Information, from on or about July 2012 until on or about August 2013, ROJAS-ZAYED represented before the New Orleans Immigration Court, that she was a licensed attorney in the state of Alabama, when in truth she was not a licensed attorney.
If convicted, ROJAS-ZAYED faces a possible maximum term of imprisonment of five years, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
Marina Arnedo Rojas-Zayed Bill of Information.pdf (639.95 KB)
Leader of Coupon Counterfeiting Ring on Silk Road Websites Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A leader of a coupon counterfeiting ring pleaded guilty today to participating in a conspiracy to sell counterfeit coupons using the “Silk Road” online marketplace, announced Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Beau Wattigney, 30, New Orleans, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle of the Eastern District of Louisiana to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit trademark counterfeiting. Sentencing has been scheduled for Oct. 28, 2015.
In connection with his plea, Wattigney admitted that, between May 2012 and November 2014, he used the online monikers “PurpleLotus” and “GoldenLotus” to sell counterfeit coupons for various goods and services on Silk Road 1.0, which was a hidden website through which users around the world bought and sold illegal drugs, goods and services. Wattigney further admitted that he engaged in the same conduct on Silk Road 2.0, a successor to Silk Road 1.0, using the monikers “PurpleLotus” and “CouponKing.”
The coupons allowed purchasers to obtain significant discounts on a variety of goods and services offered by the victim companies, including Hopster, Veri-fi, SmartSource, RedPlum and Visa. For example, Wattigney sold a counterfeit coupon that allowed users to purchase $50.00 Visa Gift Cards for $0.01 each.
Wattigney admitted that he created and manufactured the fraudulent coupons with the assistance of several co-conspirators, and that they designed the coupons to look like original print-at-home manufacturers’ coupons by using the companies’ trademarks. He also admitted that the scheme affected more than 50 U.S.-based businesses, and caused or attempted to cause more than one million dollars in intended losses.
The investigation is being conducted by the FBI Philadelphia Division, with assistance from the FBI New Orleans Field Office. The case is being prosecuted by Senior Counsel Marie-Flore Johnson, Gavin Corn and Robert Wallace of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ginsberg of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that OSCAR EDUARDO PENA-TABORA, age 39, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry of removed alien.
According to the Indictment, on or about March 8, 2015, PENA-TABORA was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about August 2, 2002.
PENA-TABORA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, followed by one year of supervised release, a fine of $250,000, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman set sentencing for September 2, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
Kenner Postal Worker Charged with Theft of Mail and Delay of MailRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRIAN CARTER, age 40, of Kenner, was charged today in a four-count Indictment, specifically, two counts of theft of mail by a postal employee and two counts of opening mail in his possession without authorization.
According to the Indictment, on or about June 15, 2013, CARTER, a United States Postal employee, stole two gift cards from the mail, each in the amount of $50.00.
The Indictment also alleges that on August 7, 2013, CARTER, while on his postal route in Kenner, opened one greeting card and removed cash from another.
If convicted, CARTER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, followed by three years of supervised release, a maximum fine of $250,000, and restitution, as to each count.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General for investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman is in charge of the prosecution.
Brian Carter Indictment.pdf (140.33 KB)
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy Related to Falsifying Records for Gun PurchaseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ORONDE GABRIEL, age 30, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to one count of conspiring to falsify ATF records related to the purchase of a firearm.
According to court documents, GABRIEL conspired to assist two other individuals in the purchase of a firearm from Academy Sports in Elmwood on June 9, 2013. GABRIEL was a previously convicted felon and prohibited from buying a firearm. The individual who purchased the firearm falsified an ATF form regarding the true ownership of the firearm, which is a federal offense.
GABRIEL faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $250,000. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing on November 18, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) led the investigation along with the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
Ordone Gabriel Factual Basis.pdf (350.27 KB)
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that EDIN ANTONIO PLEITES-ZAMORA, age 24, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today after pleading guilty today to a one-count indictment charging him with illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Sara S. Vance sentenced PLEITES-ZAMORA to time served and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment. PLEITES-ZAMORA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, PLEITES-ZAMORA reentered the United States on or about November 4, 2014, after having been previously removed on May 25, 2012.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Dallas Man Sentenced to 22½ Years for Sex Trafficking of a Minor GirlRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TAUREAN JACKSON, age 26, from Dallas, who went by the nickname “Marvelous Rich,” was sentenced today for conspiring to trafficking a minor from the Dallas-area into the New Orleans-area for the purposes of that minor engaging in prostitution and obstruction of a federal investigation into his conduct.
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced JACKSON to 270 months incarceration, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, and $1,750 in restitution. JACKSON was also ordered to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, JACKSON created and distributed a radio program in the Dallas-area called “Cheap Hoes Gotta Go” that addressed the nuances of being a pimp. He also created and operated “Star City Vixens,” an escort agency that was a front for prostitution activity. Star City Vixens advertised “upscale adult entertainment” that would travel around the country to “major social events.” JACKSON initially recruited his “bottom” prostitute, ANDREA BIRDOW, to join “Star City Vixens,” in 2012. JACKSON became BIRDOW’s pimp and arranged for her to engage in sexual acts with others in exchange for money. Judge Morgan sentenced BIRDOW last week for her role in the offense.
JACKSON was responsible for advertising and scheduling prostitution calls with BIRDOW. JACKSON kept all, or most, of the proceeds from the prostitution calls. As a means of controlling BIRDOW’s behavior and ensuring her compliance, JACKSON beat and choked BIRDOW on multiple occasions, often in front of others. On several occasions, JACKSON also burned BIRDOW with lit cigarettes to discipline her.
In mid-June 2013, JACKSON and BIRDOW met the victim, who was then 16-years-old, in the Dallas-area and recruited her to begin working for JACKSON as a prostitute. As part of his recruitment process, JACKSON showed the victim a video he recorded and uploaded to Youtube.com that depicted the purportedly glamorous life of a prostitute and showed JACKSON and BIRDOW in a hotel room, riding in a stretch limousine, drinking champagne, and eating a heaping plate of nachos.
Over the course of the next several weeks, JACKSON drove BIRDOW and the victim throughout Texas and Louisiana for the purpose of BIRDOW and the victim engaging in prostitution, which JACKSON advertised, arranged, and scheduled using an online classified advertisement. JACKSON arranged for the victim to watch BIRDOW engage in prostitution acts as a means of educating her on the best way to perform sexual acts. JACKSON required BIRDOW and the victim to turn over all, or most, of the proceeds she earned from prostitution calls.
JACKSON disciplined BIRDOW in front of the victim and told the victim that he would do the same to her if she ever tried to leave him. JACKSON also beat the victim, including striking her across the legs and buttocks with an extension cord.
Ultimately, BIRDOW and the victim were arrested on July 10, 2013, in a Metairie hotel room by undercover law enforcement officers with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office who responded to an online classified advertisement offering a prostitution date.
“Jackson was a brazen sex trafficker who preyed on a vulnerable women and girls,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “Today’s significant sentence finally brings him to justice. It also continues our law enforcement community’s enhanced efforts in fighting human trafficking in our area.”
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office–Vice Division, with assistance from the FBI Dallas Child Exploitation Task Force, and the Dallas Police Department High Risk Victims Unit in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and Brandon Long were in charge of the prosecution.
Pennslyvania Corporation Pleads Guilty and Forfeits $1 Million for Harboring of Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that M.D. BASCIANI AND SONS, INC., a corporation domiciled in Pennsylvania, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging the company with harboring illegal aliens at the Red Hill Mushroom Farm in Independence, Louisiana.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced M.D. BASCIANI AND SONS, INC. to three years of probation and ordered that the company forfeit over $1 million in illegal proceeds that it obtained as a result of employing the illegal workers. The company was also ordered to comply with future immigration inspections and to provide training to its managers and employees with hiring authority about compliance with United States immigration laws.
According to court documents, M.D. BASCIANI AND SONS, INC. rehired several of the same workers under different names after an immigration inspection revealed that they were unauthorized to work in the United States. The company’s records showed that the illegal alien workers had been fired, but in reality, they continued to pick and grow mushrooms at the farm. The farm’s manager and another of its supervisory employees have already pled guilty to a pattern and practice of employing illegal aliens at the farm.
“It is important to ensure that all businesses are competing on a level playing field, and using illegal labor to increase profits will not be tolerated,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “We will insist that every dollar in illegal proceeds is forfeited so that this illegal conduct does not pay.”
"Companies that violate federal law by employing workers illegally 'under the table' gain an unfair advantage over businesses that play by the rules," said Cindy M. Johnson., acting special agent in charge of HSI New Orleans. "HSI is committed to investigating and seeking prosecution of illegal employment practices to protect the legitimate workers and businesses that support our nation’s economy."
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller was in charge of the prosecution.
M.D. Basciani and Sons, Inc. Factual Basis.pdf (271.84 KB)
Memphis Man Charged with Sex Trafficking of 2 Minors by using Threats, Violence, and Coercion to Compel Girls into Prostitution in New Orleans and ElsewhereRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TIMOTHY JONES, a/k/a “Lucci,” “King Lucci,” “Lucci Loco,” age 25, of Memphis, was charged today in an eight-count Indictment for offenses related to his involvement in the sex trafficking of two minor into the New Orleans area for the purposes of those minors engaging in prostitution.
According to the Indictment, in early December 2013, JONES met and began recruiting Victim 1, a 17-year-old female from Baton Rouge, to work for him as a prostitute. For approximately three weeks, Victim 1 did so. In early January 2014, JONES met Victim 2, a sixteen-year-old female from Memphis and recruited her to work for him as a prostitute. JONES then arranged for Victim 2 to travel first to Louisville, Kentucky, and then to New Orleans, to work for him as a prostitute. JONES required Victim 1 and Victim 2 to give him all of the money they earned from engaging in prostitution. JONES advertised prostitution dates with Victim 1 and Victim 2 using an online classified website. JONES instructed Victim 1 and Victim 2 on how much to charge for sex, how to solicit “dates,” and how to avoid detection by law enforcement. He also instructed them to steal credit cards, wallets, cash, and other valuables from customers.
JONES also used a variety of means to control his victims. Among his techniques, JONES provided them with alcohol and illicit drugs to numb their senses, control their behavior, and encourage them to continue engaging in prostitution. To further coerce his victims, JONES beat them, punched them, and forced them to have sex with him. JONES also beat, punched, and choked others who worked for him as prostitutes in front of Victim 1 and Victim 2 as a means of threatening and intimidating them. When Victim 2 told JONES that she wanted to return to Memphis and stop working for him as a prostitute because she was ill and did not want him to beat her anymore, JONES told her that he would send her home once she earned enough “real” money.
If convicted, JONES faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of fifteen years and a maximum of life, followed by up to a life term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. JONES may also be required to register as a sex offender.
“As alleged, Timothy Jones used violence, alcohol, and drugs to coerce underage women into prostitution,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “Today’s indictment continues our Office’s heightened efforts in combating human trafficking. Individuals and businesses that profit from these heinous crimes are now on notice.”
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the New Orleans Field Offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Louisiana State Police, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Timothy Jones Indictment.pdf (3.46 MB)
New Orleans Woman Sentenced for Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SYLVIA CHESTNUT, age 37, of New Orleans, was sentenced today after pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information charging her with stealing property from a Navy Exchange Store in Florida.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced CHESTNUT to sixty days imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Additionally, CHESTNUT was ordered to pay full restitution to the Navy Exchange.
According to court documents, between November 12, 2011 and December 18, 2011, CHESTNUT wrote 43 worthless checks totaling $20,549.36 to two Naval Exchange Stores located at the Naval Air Station in Jacksonville, Florida, and Naval Station Mayport, Florida. CHESTNUT used the worthless checks to purchase clothing, household items, pre-paid Visa cards, and other personal items.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Frein of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida were in charge of the prosecution.
Houston Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BAKEER RASHED, JR., 33, of Houston, pled guilty today to a one-count superseding Bill of Information charging him with conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride.
According to court documents, from July 25, 2006, through February 19, 2007, RASHED conspired to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine hydrochloride with co-conspirators living in Louisiana. RASHED was the point of contact for facilitating numerous drug deals.
RASHED faces a sentence of not less than 5 years but not more than 40 years of incarceration, a fine of not more than $5,000,000 and supervised release of not less than 4 years. U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing for October 14, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
Rashed Bakeer, Jr. Factual Basis.pdf (1.93 MB)
Owner of Louisiana Automotive Businesses Pleads Guilty for Role in Stolen Identity Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A resident of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, and the owner of two automotive businesses pleaded guilty today for his involvement in a stolen identity refund fraud scheme, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Caroline D. Ciraolo of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite Jr. of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Martin Jackson Sr., 48, pleaded guilty to one count of a triple object conspiracy to defraud the United States, to commit theft of public money and mail fraud. According to court documents, Jackson conspired with at least six other individuals to use stolen identities to file false federal income tax returns that fraudulently claimed tax refunds. Jackson owns Woodscale Automotive Sales LLC and Woodscale Autobody and Mec. LLC. He used the business bank accounts as part of the scheme. Some of the co-conspirators prepared and filed the false tax returns using the stolen identity information and requested that the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) mail the refund checks to addresses in Louisiana, including to post office boxes that were opened by co-conspirators. Jackson deposited refund checks into his business bank accounts and gave cash or checks to his co-conspirators, while retaining a portion of the proceeds for himself.
Jackson is the final co-conspirator to plead guilty of the seven defendants indicted in this case. Previously, Angela Chaney, 43, Thaddeus Richardson, 50, Corey Lewis, aka Coco, 37, Craig Lewis, 40, Brad Lewis, aka Bird, 32, and Cedrick Mitchell, aka Skeet, 39, pleaded guilty. Their sentencings are scheduled in August and September.
U.S. District Court Judge Jay Zainey of the Eastern District of Louisiana set sentencing for Jackson on Oct. 6. Jackson faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss caused by the offense and restitution.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo and U.S. Attorney Polite commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, who investigated the case, and Trial Attorneys Hayden Brockett and Lauren Castaldi of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dall Kammer of the Eastern District of Louisiana, who are prosecuting the case.
Honduran Man Sentenced for Illegal Use of a Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
ESMIN ESPINOZA-ERAZO, age 25, a citizen of Honduras who currently resides in Hammond, Louisiana, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal use of a Social Security Number, announced U. S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. today.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced ESMIN ESPINOZA-ERAZO to 27 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release, a $2,500 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
According to the Indictment, on or about July 16, 2013, ESMIN ESPINOZA-ERAZO submitted a social security number that did not belong to him to a Louisiana Department of Motor Vehicles Office in order to obtain a Louisiana identification card. Based on that false submission, an employee with the Department of Motor Vehicles issued ESMIN ESPINOZA-ERAZO a Louisiana identification card.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Four Plead Guilty to Oxycodone DistributionRead the Press Release
DONALD FONTENOT, age 61; JOSEPH POUNDS, age 47; EDGAR POUNDS, age 65; and HOUSTON COTTON, age 67; residents of Bogalusa, Louisiana, each pled guilty today to multiple federal charges of selling Roxicodone 30mg tablets to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration agent, announced U. S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. Roxicodone is a branded formulation of oxycodone, a prescription-only Schedule II drug controlled substance and a highly addictive and abused semi-synthetic opioid.
According to court documents, DEA conducted the undercover drug purchases as part of an investigation into reports of widespread illegal street sales of Roxicodone pills in and around the City of Bogalusa. The investigation showed that Roxicodone 30mg tablets were being sold by pill traffickers for approximately twenty-five to thirty dollars ($25-30) per tablet. Agents further learned that many of these sellers were patients or close associates of patients of Clinic A, an unregistered pain management clinic operating as a ‘pill mill,’ dispensing Roxicodone prescriptions in exchange for cash outside the scope of professional medical practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose. Clinic A changed locations multiple times during the investigation, operating at times in the New Orleans area and in Kiln, Mississippi, and also changed names on paper, although no signage was ever posted outside the clinic stating the clinic’s name or otherwise indicating that a medical practice was operating therein.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt scheduled sentencing for October 14, 2015. Each defendant faces a sentence of up to twenty years imprisonment per count. Five other defendants are charged in the Indictment, and trial is scheduled for July 27, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann is in charge of the prosecution.
Atlanta Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetine Conspiracy ChargeRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JAMES WOOLF, age 41, a resident of Atlanta, Georgia, pled guilty before United States District Judge Martin L. C. Feldman to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to the indictment, beginning on a date unknown and continuing until on or about September 8, 2013, WOOLF knowingly combined, conspired, confederated and agreed with persons known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine.
WOOLF faces a minimum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of $10,000,000.00, at least five years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100.00 special assessment. District Judge Feldman set sentencing for October 21, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre’ Jones is the prosecuting attorney.
Two Louisiana Residents Plead Guilty in Stolen Identity Tax Refund Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Two residents of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to multiple criminal charges for their involvement in a stolen identity tax refund fraud scheme, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Caroline D. Ciraolo of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite Jr. of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
At today’s plea hearing in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Angela Chaney, 43, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and one count of aggravated identity theft, and Thaddeus Richardson, 50, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and seven counts of theft of public money.
According to court documents, Chaney and Richardson conspired with each other and others to file false federal income tax returns using stolen identities that included false claims for tax refunds. Richardson owned and operated a funeral home in Tangipahoa Parish and used the business bank account as part of the scheme. Chaney and others used individuals’ names and social security numbers to prepare false tax returns and directed the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to mail refund checks to addresses in Louisiana, including to post office boxes opened by some of the co-conspirators. Chaney and others falsely endorsed the refund checks and then brought those checks to Richardson and others. Richardson deposited the checks into the business bank account before dividing the proceeds amongst the co-conspirators.
The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 6 and each faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States. Chaney also faces a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft. Richardson also faces a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for each theft of public money count and 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering. In addition to a prison sentence, the defendants face potential fines, forfeiture and restitution.
After today’s guilty pleas, six of the seven defendants charged in the indictment have pleaded guilty. Corey Lewis, aka Coco, 37; Craig Lewis, 40; Brad Lewis, aka Bird, 32; and Cedrick Mitchell, aka Skeet, 39, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy and related charges and await their sentencing hearings scheduled in August and September. The case of Martin Jackson Sr., 48, of Tangipahoa Parish, is still pending.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Ciraolo and U.S. Attorney Polite commended special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, who investigated the case, and Trial Attorneys Hayden Brockett and Lauren Castaldi of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dall Kammer of the Eastern District of Louisiana, who are prosecuting the case.
Thaddeus Richardson Factual Basis.pdf (174.88 KB)
Angela Chaney Factual Basis.pdf (214.63 KB)
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DANIEL FIGUEROA-MUNGUIA, age 30, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging him with illegal re-entry into the United States.
According to the court documents, FIGUEROA-MUNGUIA was found on March 30, 2015, in the United States after having been deported on April 29, 2011.
U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing for August 13, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield is in charge of the prosecution.
Daniel Figueroa-Munguia Factual Basis.pdf (177.34 KB)
Louisiana Motel Owner Pleads Guilty in Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Today, a motel owner pleaded guilty to financially benefiting from a sex trafficking scheme operated out of the Riviera Motel in New Orleans in which multiple adult women were compelled to engage in prostitution, announced head of the Civil Rights Division Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite Jr. of the Eastern District of Louisiana. Kanubhai Patel, also known as Mr. Kenny and Pop, 74, of Kenner, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to one count of benefitting financially from trafficking in persons.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate those who traffic in human beings or who benefit financially from human trafficking,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Gupta. “We will continue in our steadfast determination to bring to justice not only those who use force and coercion to exploit other human beings—but also those entities or individuals who knowingly profit from these depraved acts.”
“This defendant callously profited from a sex trafficking venture that used force, fraud and coercion to compel women to engage in commercial sex acts,” said U.S. Attorney Polite. “These crimes often pass without detection because victims live in fear from physical abuse, threats and other forms of coercion. My office is committed to prosecuting individuals and organizations that profit from this illegal conduct.”
“This investigation and prosecution should serve as a clear reminder to all those individuals engaged in sex trafficking and those who profit from this heinous crime, that the full force of federal law enforcement, across geographical boundaries, will bring them to swift justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael Anderson of the FBI’s New Orleans Office.
“Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that Homeland Security Investigations fights as one of its highest priorities via a coordinated global effort with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Cindy M. Johnson of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) New Orleans. “The results speak for themselves; over the past two years HSI has doubled its number of human trafficking arrests. HSI will continue to investigate and seek prosecution of these criminals while also ensuring the victims of this terrible crime are rescued and get the care they need.”
According to evidence presented in court and documents filed in connection with the case, Patel acknowledged that, in his role as the former owner of the Riviera Motel, he regularly rented rooms to individuals who are charged as sex trafficking co-conspirators in connection with this case, knowing they were pimps who forced and coerced women to engage in prostitution. Patel admitted that although he never personally recruited, groomed or coerced any of the victims, he benefited financially from the sex trafficking operation.
Evidence presented at the plea hearing and court documents establish that Patel would charge the pimps and sex trafficking co-conspirators higher rates than other motel guests, and would open the motel’s gate to allow the women to bring customers back to the hotel. Patel learned that members of the sex trafficking conspiracy physically assaulted women they prostituted, including one instance in which a co-conspirator brutally beat one woman with a large piece of wood while she screamed for help, leaving her with multiple lacerations and what appeared to be a broken arm. Patel also saw the damage that a co-conspirator caused to a motel room during a beating, including a broken toilet, a damaged sink and blood on the walls. Patel agreed not to call the police after the co-conspirator paid him for the damage to the room. Patel also knew that, in furtherance of the sex trafficking scheme, members of the sex trafficking conspiracy would take the women’s identification cards from them. Patel saw the sex trafficking co-conspirators possessing the women’s identification cards and using them to rent hotels. Patel did not report them to police as long as they paid their rent.
At sentencing, Patel faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for benefiting financially from participating in a trafficking scheme involving control of victims’ identification documents.
Five other defendants have pleaded guilty in connection with the case. On June 25, 2014, Zacchaeus Taylor, 22, pleaded guilty to sex trafficking conspiracy and to transportation for purposes of prostitution. Laquentin Brown, 33, and Anthony Ellis, 26, subsequently pleaded guilty to the same charges on March 4, 2015, and April 20, 2015, respectively. All of these defendants are from Memphis, Tennessee, and each faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for conspiracy and a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for transportation for prostitution.
On April 20, 2015, Duane Phillips, 29, and Christopher Williams, 30, also of Memphis, each pleaded guilty to sex trafficking conspiracy. They each face a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison.
Patel was charged in a second superseding indictment returned on Oct. 3, 2014, along with Brown, Ellis, Philips, Williams and Granville Robinson, 26, also of Memphis. Taylor was charged separately on March 28, 2014. Of the seven defendants charged in connection with the case, six have entered guilty pleas and Robinson is awaiting trial. An indictment is merely an accusation and the defendants are innocent until proven guilty.
This case was investigated jointly by agents from the New Orleans Field Offices of the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, with assistance from the FBI’s Memphis Field Office. This case is being prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel John Cotton Richmond and Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Civil Right Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia K. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Kanubhai Patel Factual Basis (36.06 KB)
Louisiana Motel Owner Pleads Guilty in Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
Sex Trafficking Scheme Used Threats, Violence and Coercion to Compel Women into Prostitution in New Orleans and Elsewhere
Today, a motel owner pleaded guilty to financially benefiting from a sex trafficking scheme operated out of the Riviera Motel in New Orleans in which multiple adult women were compelled to engage in prostitution, announced head of the Civil Rights Division Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite Jr. of the Eastern District of Louisiana. Kanubhai Patel, also known as Mr. Kenny and Pop, 74, of Kenner, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to one count of benefitting financially from trafficking in persons.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate those who traffic in human beings or who benefit financially from human trafficking,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Gupta. “We will continue in our steadfast determination to bring to justice not only those who use force and coercion to exploit other human beings—but also those entities or individuals who knowingly profit from these depraved acts.”
“This defendant callously profited from a sex trafficking venture that used force, fraud and coercion to compel women to engage in commercial sex acts,” said U.S. Attorney Polite. “These crimes often pass without detection because victims live in fear from physical abuse, threats and other forms of coercion. My office is committed to prosecuting individuals and organizations that profit from this illegal conduct.”
“This investigation and prosecution should serve as a clear reminder to all those individuals engaged in sex trafficking and those who profit from this heinous crime, that the full force of federal law enforcement, across geographical boundaries, will bring them to swift justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael Anderson of the FBI’s New Orleans Office.
“Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that Homeland Security Investigations fights as one of its highest priorities via a coordinated global effort with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Cindy M. Johnson of Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) New Orleans. “The results speak for themselves; over the past two years HSI has doubled its number of human trafficking arrests. HSI will continue to investigate and seek prosecution of these criminals while also ensuring the victims of this terrible crime are rescued and get the care they need.”
According to evidence presented in court and documents filed in connection with the case, Patel acknowledged that, in his role as the former owner of the Riviera Motel, he regularly rented rooms to individuals who are charged as sex trafficking co-conspirators in connection with this case, knowing they were pimps who forced and coerced women to engage in prostitution. Patel admitted that although he never personally recruited, groomed or coerced any of the victims, he benefited financially from the sex trafficking operation.
Evidence presented at the plea hearing and court documents establish that Patel would charge the pimps and sex trafficking co-conspirators higher rates than other motel guests, and would open the motel’s gate to allow the women to bring customers back to the hotel. Patel learned that members of the sex trafficking conspiracy physically assaulted women they prostituted, including one instance in which a co-conspirator brutally beat one woman with a large piece of wood while she screamed for help, leaving her with multiple lacerations and what appeared to be a broken arm. Patel also saw the damage that a co-conspirator caused to a motel room during a beating, including a broken toilet, a damaged sink and blood on the walls. Patel agreed not to call the police after the co-conspirator paid him for the damage to the room. Patel also knew that, in furtherance of the sex trafficking scheme, members of the sex trafficking conspiracy would take the women’s identification cards from them. Patel saw the sex trafficking co-conspirators possessing the women’s identification cards and using them to rent hotels. Patel did not report them to police as long as they paid their rent.
At sentencing, Patel faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for benefiting financially from participating in a trafficking scheme involving control of victims’ identification documents.
Five other defendants have pleaded guilty in connection with the case. On June 25, 2014, Zacchaeus Taylor, 22, pleaded guilty to sex trafficking conspiracy and to transportation for purposes of prostitution. Laquentin Brown, 33, and Anthony Ellis, 26, subsequently pleaded guilty to the same charges on March 4, 2015, and April 20, 2015, respectively. All of these defendants are from Memphis, Tennessee, and each faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for conspiracy and a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for transportation for prostitution.
On April 20, 2015, Duane Phillips, 29, and Christopher Williams, 30, also of Memphis, each pleaded guilty to sex trafficking conspiracy. They each face a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison.
Patel was charged in a second superseding indictment returned on Oct. 3, 2014, along with Brown, Ellis, Philips, Williams and Granville Robinson, 26, also of Memphis. Taylor was charged separately on March 28, 2014. Of the seven defendants charged in connection with the case, six have entered guilty pleas and Robinson is awaiting trial. An indictment is merely an accusation and the defendants are innocent until proven guilty.
This case was investigated jointly by agents from the New Orleans Field Offices of the FBI and Department of Homeland Security, with assistance from the FBI’s Memphis Field Office. This case is being prosecuted by Special Litigation Counsel John Cotton Richmond and Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Civil Right Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia K. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TONY AXELL ROMERO-MONTOYA, age 28, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment charging him with illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Sarah R. Vance sentenced ROMERO-MONTOYA to time served, followed by one year of supervised release. ROMERO-MONTOYA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to the court documents, on February 25, 2015, ROMERO-MONTOYA was found in the United States after having been deported previously on September 17, 2012.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield.