Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LUIS FERNANDO MARTINEZ, age 40, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry of removed alien.
According to the Bill of Information, on or about March 4, 2015, MARTINEZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about February 1, 2013.
MARTINEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years and a fine of $250,000, one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan set sentencing for June 17, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
Harvey Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Steal $68,000 in Federal Housing AssistanceRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TRENISE DEBOUE MURPHY, age 52, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging her with conspiring to commit theft of government funds.
According to court documents, MURPHY submitted an application to receive housing assistance from the Jefferson Parish Housing Authority (“JPHA”) through the Housing Choice Voucher Program (“HCVP”). MURPHY listed her family composition as she, her son, and her daughter. The defendant did not include her husband, who owned the residence in which they lived, in her family composition. As a result of that representation, as well as yearly recertification paperwork she filed that indicated that she was unmarried and that hid the fact that her “landlord” was actually her husband, the JPHA provided housing assistance on behalf of MURPHY between September 2003 and September 2012, in the amount of approximately $68,593.00.
MUPRHY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. set sentencing on August 12, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Trenise Deboue Murphy Factual Basis
Covington Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Smuggle Turtles Out of the United StatesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LAWRENCE TREIGLE, age 33, from Covington, was sentenced today after pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information charging him with conspiring to smuggle turtles out of the United States in violation of the Lacey Act.
According to court documents, on December 3, 2014, TREIGLE pled guilty to the superseding Bill of Information. TREIGLE admitted he was part of a group of individuals involved in capturing North American Wood turtles from the wild in Pennsylvania, shipping the turtles by mail though the United States, and then illegally exporting the turtles to Hong Kong.
U.S. District Court Judge Helen G. Berrigan sentenced TREIGLE to a term of 15 months imprisonment, to be followed by two years of supervised release.
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.
New Orleans Woman Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SYLVIA CHESTNUT, age 37, of New Orleans, was charged yesterday in one-count Bill of Information for stealing property from a Navy Exchange Store.
According to the Bill of Information, between November 12, 2011, and December 18, 2011, CHESTNUT wrote 43 worthless checks, totaling $20,549.36, to two Naval Exchange Stores in Florida. CHESTNUT used the worthless checks to purchase clothing, household items, pre-paid Visa cards, and other personal items.
If convicted, CHESTNUT faces a maximum prison term of 10 years, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, and $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 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 are in charge of the prosecution.
Sylvia Chestnut Bill of Information
Meraux Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy Related to Falsifying Records for Gun PurchaseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RICKEY COLEMAN, age 26, of Meraux, pled guilty yesterday to one count of conspiring to falsify ATF records related to the purchase of a firearm.
According to the factual basis filed in open court, COLEMAN enlisted the help of two other individuals to aid in the purchase of a firearm from Academy Sports in Elmwood on June 9, 2013. COLEMAN was a previously convicted felon and prohibited from buying a firearm. The female who purchased the firearm falsified an ATF form regarding the true ownership of the firearm.
COLEMAN faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and up to $250,000 in fines. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for August 5, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) in investigating this matter along with the assistance of the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
Rickey Coleman Factual Basis
Three Additional Defendants Plead Guilty in Connection with Sex Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Today, three additional defendants pleaded guilty in connection with a sex trafficking scheme operated out of the Riviera Motel in New Orleans, Louisiana, which compelled multiple women to engage in prostitution in New Orleans and elsewhere, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite Jr. of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Defendants Duane Phillips, 29, and Christopher Williams, 30, both of whom are residents of Memphis, Tennessee, each pleaded guilty today to conspiring to commit sex trafficking of adult victims by force, fraud and coercion in New Orleans and elsewhere. Defendant Anthony Ellis, 26, also of Memphis, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to commit sex trafficking of adult victims and one count of transportation for purposes of prostitution.
“The Department of Justice will not tolerate trafficking in human beings, and will continue to relentlessly pursue justice on behalf of vulnerable members of our society, whether they are migrants from beyond our borders or whether they are young women from our own communities,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Gupta. “We will continue in our steadfast determination to hold accountable those who use force and coercion to exploit other human beings.”
“These defendants recruited vulnerable victims from the New Orleans community and brought other victims to New Orleans to engage in commercial sex trafficking,” 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 who manipulate victims into committing commercial sex acts and profit from this illegal conduct.”
“This investigation and prosecution should serve as a clear reminder to all those individuals engaged in the heinous crime of sex trafficking 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 Division.
“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 Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) New Orleans Field Office. “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.”
Two defendants have previously pleaded guilty in connection with the case. On June 25, 2014, defendant Zacchaeus Taylor pleaded guilty to sex trafficking conspiracy and to Transportation for Purposes of Prostitution. On March 4, 2015, Laquentin Brown pleaded guilty to the same charges. Each face a maximum of five years on the conspiracy count and a maximum of 10 years on the transportation for prostitution count.
On Oct. 3, 2014, a grand jury in the Eastern District of Louisiana returned a Second Superseding Indictment charging defendants Phillips, Williams and Ellis, along with additional defendants Granville Robinson and Laquentin Brown, with sex trafficking conspiracy and varying counts of sex trafficking and transportation for prostitution. The Second Superseding Indictment also charged defendant Kanubhai Patel, who was the former owner of the Riviera Motel, with benefitting financially from the sex trafficking conspiracy. Defendant Taylor was charged separately on March 28, 2014. Of the seven defendants charged in connection with the sex trafficking scheme, five have entered guilty pleas. An indictment is merely an accusation and defendants are innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
During their respective plea hearings and in their respective court filings, defendants Phillips, Williams and Ellis admitted that they, along with co-defendants Robinson and Brown, all of whom are from Memphis, conspired to recruit, groom, force, compel and coerce adult women to engage in prostitution, enforcing rules and means of control that included requiring the women to earn a certain amount of money each day, requiring them to turn over the proceeds and prohibiting them from speaking to or looking at other pimps. Williams admitted intentionally trying to impregnate women to make it harder for them to leave him, while some of the other defendants took the victims’ identification cards and documents. To enforce the rules, Phillips, Williams and Ellis each admitted that they and their co-conspirators used a variety of punishments, including withholding food, forcing the victims to engage in additional commercial sex acts, as well as physical assaults. Williams noted that he attempted to avoid visible bruising so that the victims would not draw the attention of the police or scare off prospective customers. Phillips, Williams and Ellis each admitted that they and their co-conspirators consulted one another on means of furthering their pimping activities, and would monitor each other’s victims when a co-conspirator was incarcerated. Phillips, Williams, Ellis and the other co-conspirators frequently stayed at the Riviera Motel because they knew that the hotel staff would not stop them from pimping women.
At sentencing, defendant Ellis faces a maximum sentence of 10 years on the transportation for prostitution charge and a maximum sentence of five years on the conspiracy charge. Defendants Phillips and Williams each face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment for the sex trafficking conspiracy.
This case was investigated jointly by agents from the New Orleans Field Offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Department of Homeland Security (DHS), 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.
Duane Phillips Factual Basis Christopher Williams Factual Basis Anthony Ellis Factual Basis
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOEL CANUL-CAUICH, age 26, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced CANUL-CAUICH to time served and a $100 special assessment. CANUL-CAUICH will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on or about January 20, 2015, CANUL-CAUICH was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about April 20, 2010.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González was in charge of the prosecution.
Ohio Man Charged with Committing a $300,000 Mail and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that HOWARD GREGOR, age 52, a resident of Attica, Ohio, was charged today in a two-count Bill of Information for mail and wire fraud.
According to court documents, from November 3, 2008, through on or about April 19, 2013, GREGOR worked for Company A, a New Orleans based company that manufactures conveyor belts for use in food processing and packaging facilities. Company A employed GREGOR as an account manager. His sales work required him to travel frequently and incur business-related expenses. Company A had a policy that allowed account managers to submit expense reports for reimbursement of actual out-of-pocket business expenses. Rather than submitting expense reports for actual expenses, GREGOR devised a scheme and artifice to defraud Company A by creating inflated and fictitious items to put on his expense report to cause Company A to pay him for expenses that he did not actually incur. GREGOR submitted these expense reports via U.S. mail and electronic mail. In all, GREGOR caused Company A to reimburse him for nearly $300,000 of expenses that he did not actually incur, causing a loss to the company.
If convicted, GREGOR faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, followed by five years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000, as to each of Counts 1 and 2.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Sharan Lieberman is in charge of the prosecution.
Howard Gregor Bill of Information
Member of Young Melph Mafia (YMM) Neighborhood Gang Sentenced to 13 Years for Drug and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DARIUS WILLIAMS, age 23, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced yesterday 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 WILLIAMS to 156 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release.
WILLIAMS 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, WILLIAMS 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 stated, “This is just another example of how serious the federal government is in helping turn the tide of violence that is occurring in New Orleans. These local gangs have caused serious harm to the neighborhoods of this City, and the federal government will continue to work with local authorities to bring these individuals to justice.”
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.
Hammond Man Sentenced to 13.5 Years for Firearm and Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRANDON WATKINS, age 31, a resident of Hammond, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to distribution of cocaine and possession and sale of a stolen firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced WATKINS to 162 months of incarceration, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, in September and October 2012, WATKINS sold quantities of cocaine and four stolen firearms to an undercover law enforcement agent. Additionally, on July 17, 2013, WATKINS sold oxycodone pills to an undercover law enforcement agent.
Court records revealed that WATKINS was convicted on or about April 24, 2009, of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling in Tangipahoa Parish. As such, he was prohibited from possessing firearm by both state and federal law.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Hammond Police Department, and the ATF New Orleans Division Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nolan D. Paige was in charge of the prosecution.
California Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LEONID DJUGA, a/k/a “Leonid Dzhuga,” age 37, of Reseda, California, pleaded guilty today, to one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, in June 2014, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office (SBSO) deputies investigating methamphetamine distribution in Arabi, Louisiana, arrested two men who were selling methamphetamine on West Judge Perez Drive. Through their investigation, deputies learned that their source of methamphetamine was DJUGA, a resident of Reseda. SBSO deputies coordinated with agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Field Office, and between June 26th and 27th, 2014, federal agents and SBSO deputies intercepted four packages containing methamphetamine being mailed through Federal Express to Arabi. In total, the four packages contained over one kilogram of methamphetamine. According to DEA laboratory analysts, the methamphetamine in all four packages had a purity level of over 99%, with one shipment testing as 100% pure methamphetamine.
On July 15, 2014, DEA agents, assisted by Los Angeles Police Department officers and a St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s deputy, arrested DJUGA at his residence in Reseda, pursuant to a federal arrest warrant. At DJUGA’S residence, agents located plastic bottles that were similar to the bottles used to package the methamphetamine that was seized in Louisiana. Agents also seized from DJUGA’S office a notebook that appeared to be a drug ledger; a receipt for a package being shipped to Arabi; and three cellular telephones. Agents also located a BMW that was registered to DJUGA. In the trunk of the car, agents found a box cutter with residue. The residue was field tested which resulted in a presumptive positive result for the presence of methamphetamine. A subsequent search of DJUGA’S cellular phones pursuant to a warrant revealed text messages discussing shipments of packages to Louisiana and a photograph of a FedEx tracking label destined for Louisiana.
DJUGA faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a $10 million fine, and at least five years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for July 23, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office with the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter and thanked the District Attorney’s Office for Louisiana’s 34th Judicial District, the DEA Los Angeles Field Office, and the Los Angeles Police Department for providing assistance. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew Payne and Brandon Long are in charge of the prosecution.
Leonid Djuga Factual Basis
Seven Louisiana Residents Indicted in Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Seven Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, residents were indicted today on charges of conspiracy to defraud the United States, theft of public money, mail fraud, aggravated identity theft and conspiracy to commit money laundering, 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. According to the indictment, the defendants conspired to file false income tax returns using stolen identities and then launder the resulting fraudulent tax refunds.
The indictment charges Corey Lewis aka Coco, 37, Angela Chaney, 43, Cedrick Mitchell aka Skeet, 39, Craig Lewis, 40, Brad Lewis aka Bird, 32, Thaddeus Richardson, 49, and Martin Jackson Sr., 48, with conspiracy to defraud the United States, conspiracy to commit money laundering, conspiracy to commit mail fraud and conspiracy to commit theft of public money. In addition, Corey Lewis, Chaney, Richardson and Jackson Sr. were charged with various counts of theft of public money. Chaney was also charged with six counts of mail fraud and five counts of aggravated identity theft. Corey Lewis was additionally charged with three counts of aggravated identity theft.
According to the allegations in the indictment, the defendants used individuals’ names and social security numbers in order to prepare false tax returns that claimed large tax refunds. The refund checks were mailed to addresses in Louisiana, including to post office boxes that were opened by members of the conspiracy. Once the tax refund checks were received, members of the conspiracy falsely endorsed the checks and cashed them. Corey Lewis, Chaney and Mitchell deposited fraudulently obtained U.S. Treasury checks into bank accounts under their control. Richardson and Jackson Sr. deposited checks into their business accounts, then provided some of the proceeds to their co-conspirators and kept the remaining proceeds for themselves.
If convicted, the defendants each face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in prison for each mail fraud count and each money laundering conspiracy charge, a statutory maximum sentence of 10 years in prison for each theft of public money count, a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for each conspiracy count, and a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison for each count of aggravated identity theft. The defendants also face potential fines, forfeiture 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.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the division’s website.
Corey Lewis et al Indictment
New Orleans Restaurant Owner Charged with Wire Fraud and Failing to Pay over TaxesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JASON C. DOYLE, age 38, of New Orleans, was charged today in a Bill of Information with one count of Wire Fraud and one count of Failing to Pay Over Taxes.
According to documents filed in federal court, DOYLE operated, controlled, marketed and sold several restaurant franchises to willing investors. From 2010 through 2014, DOYLE defrauded three investors who paid him monies for a restaurant franchise. DOYLE defrauded the investors of monies totaling in excess of $888,000. These investor monies were paid to DOYLE with the understanding that DOYLE would furnish them with either a restaurant or the equipment and essentials necessary to open a restaurant establishment. Instead of using the investor funds to complete the promised restaurant project, DOYLE fraudulently diverted the monies for his own personal use.
In 2010, DOYLE also deducted federal taxes from his employees’ wages. However, he failed to pay over the collected employee taxes to the Department of Treasury, in violation of federal tax law. The taxes due and owing to the Department of Treasury exceed $105,000.
The maximum penalty for wire fraud is twenty years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to the victim. The maximum penalty for failing to pay over taxes is five years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys, Richard R. Pickens, II and Andre J. Lagarde are in charge of the prosecution.
Jason C. Doyle Bill of Information
Grand Jury Returns Indictment Against Robert Durst for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. announced the return of an Indictment today charging ROBERT DURST, age 71, with the crime of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
The Indictment charges that DURST, on or about March 14, 2015, unlawfully possessed a Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver, after having previously being convicted of crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, to wit: two convictions in 2004, in case number 04-667 in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, for, respectively, possessing a firearm while under indictment, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(n), and possessing a firearm while a fugitive from justice, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(2). The potential sentence in this case is a maximum 10 years incarceration in the Bureau of Prisons, a fine of $250,000, a maximum of three years of supervised release, and $100 special assessment fee.
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 United States Attorneys Myles Ranier and Michael McMahon are in charge of the prosecution.
Robert Durst Indictment
Salvadorian National Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LUIS ADALBERTO MORADIAGA, age 44, a citizen of El Salvador, was charged today in a one-count Indictment with illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to the indictment, MORADIAGA reentered the United States after having been previously deported on August 25, 2000. If convicted, MORADIAGA 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 U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Luis Adalberto Moradiaga Indictment
Two Allen Gang Members SentencedRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that GIE PRESTON, age 39, and EMANUAL CASAME, age 26, both residents of New Orleans, were sentenced today for federal drug and gun violations. PRESTON was convicted by a federal jury in November 2014 of conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base “crack,” being a convicted felon in possession of firearms, conspiring to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, use of a communication facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. CASAME pled guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base “crack.”
U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. sentenced PRESTON to 228 months incarceration; 168 months for the various drug and gun violations and 60 consecutive months for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, to be followed by five years of supervised release. CASAME was sentenced to 60 months incarceration, to be followed by five years of supervised release.
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 case. 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 prosecuting this matter.
Indictment Returned Against Houston Police Officer and Mexican CitizenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced the return of a Superseding Indictment charging Houston Police Officer NOE JUAREZ, 46, and Mexican citizen SERGIO GRIMALDO, 32, with conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. JUAREZ is additionally charged with conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The Superseding Indictment was returned on April 2, 2015 and recently unsealed. This Superseding Indictment is a product of an ongoing investigation. Both defendants are presently in custody.
If convicted of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, each defendant faces a sentence of ten years to life imprisonment, followed by a minimum of five years of supervised release, and a $10,000,000 fine. If convicted of conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, JUAREZ faces a maximum of twenty years imprisonment, followed by a maximum of three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that an 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 (“DEA”) offices in New Orleans and Houston, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) in Houston, and the Houston Police Department Internal Affairs Division in investigating this matter and thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas for their assistance. Assistant United States Attorney John F. Murphy is in charge of the prosecution.
Superseding Indictment - Noe Juarez and Sergio Grimaldo
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal Use of a Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that FRANCISCO MUNOZ, age 26, a citizen of Honduras and residing in Hammond, was sentenced after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal use of a social security number.
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced MUNOZ to time served, and a $100 special assessment. MUNOZ will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on or about May 6, 2013, MUNOZ was able to obtain a Louisiana driver’s license from the Office of Motor Vehicles by using a social security number that did not belong to him.
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.
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSE LEMUS-HERNANDEZ, age 28, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced LEMUS-HERNANDEZ to time served, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. LEMUS-HERNANDEZ will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on or about October 30, 2014, LEMUS-HERNANDEZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about April 16, 2012.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Custom Enforcement and Removal in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González was in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that NELSON FLORES-CRUZ, age 31, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Martin L. C. Feldman sentenced FLORES-CRUZ to 45 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Upon release from incarceration, FLORES-CRUZ will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on or about August 12, 2014, NELSON FLORES-CRUZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about July 11, 2008.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Custom Enforcement and Removal in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González was in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that EFREN FLORES-MELCHOR, age 40, a Mexican citizen, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced FLORES-MELCHOR to five months imprisonment followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Following his incarceration, FLORES-MELCHOR will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration & Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on or about November 7, 2014, St. Charles Parish deputies arrested FLORES-MELCHOR for Driving While Intoxicated. The deputies then contacted agents of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, who discovered that FLORES-MELCHOR was a Mexican national who had been deported from the United States on three previous occasions. Agents also learned that FLORES-MELCHOR had amassed three DWI convictions while he was illegally present in the United States. ICE agents arrested FLORES-MELCHOR and placed an immigration hold on him.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
Waggaman Woman Charged with Wire Fraud After Embezzling over $200,000 from EmployerRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DELORES TROUILLET, age 58, of Waggaman, was charged today in a one-count Bill of Information with wire fraud.
According to the Bill of Information, from 1999 to 2014 TROUILLET was employed by a carpet, flooring, and drapery sales and installation company (“Company A”) headquartered in Gretna, Louisiana, where she served as a bookkeeper. In her capacity as bookkeeper, TROUILLET was responsible for overseeing the company’s finances and accounts. TROUILLET had access to Company A’s bank accounts, including the ability to conduct wire transfers from Company A’s bank accounts.
Using her access to the company’s accounts, TROUILLET stole money from Company A in various ways, including generating checks drawing on Company A’s bank accounts to pay her personal expenses. To make the payments appear legitimate, TROUILLET listed in Company A’s internal records checks she made out to herself and deposited into her personal bank account as being made payable to entities with whom Company A engaged in business or frequently paid funds, such as “State Farm Insurance” and “IRS.” TROUILLET also paid for her personal daily expenses using Company A’s corporate credit and debit cards. Further, TROUILLET added money to her biweekly payroll in excess of her agreed upon salary. In total, TROUILLET embezzled approximately $208,082.03 from Company A.
If convicted, TROUILLET faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person.
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 United States Secret Service and investigators with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Delores Trouillet Bill of Information
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Counterfeit Movie DVDs and Music CDsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DARNELL REED, age 40, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to two counts of criminal copyright infringement.
According to court documents, Special Agents from the United States Homeland Security Investigations, Investigators from the Louisiana Department of Justice/Attorney General Investigations Division (LDOJ/AG) and an investigator from the Recording Industry Association of America, Inc. (RIAA) and the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) conducted a controlled buy from REED, who was in a parking lot in the 1100 block of Elysian Fields Avenue. The investigator approached REED and inquired about a purchase of a movie DVD and music CDs. The DVDs and CDs were displayed in the rear of REED’s vehicle, which also hung a handwritten sign showing “3 FOR $10” and “7 FOR $20.” The investigator purchased one music CD and two movie DVDs from REED for the sum of $10. The investigator examined the DVDs and CD and determined that they were counterfeit. Law enforcement agents seized approximately 7,187 counterfeit DVDs and 7,315 counterfeit CDs from REED’s vehicle.
On each count, REED faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier set sentencing July 9, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and Investigators from the Louisiana Department of Justice, Attorney General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Loan "Mimi" Nguyen is in charge of the prosecution.
Darnell Reed Factual Basis
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Counterfeit Movie DVDs and Music CDsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DARNELL REED, age 40, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to two counts of criminal copyright infringement.
According to court documents, Special Agents from the United States Homeland Security Investigations, Investigators from the Louisiana Department of Justice/Attorney General Investigations Division (LDOJ/AG) and an investigator from the Recording Industry Association of America, Inc. (RIAA) and the Motion Picture Association of America (MPAA) conducted a controlled buy from REED, who was in a parking lot in the 1100 block of Elysian Fields Avenue. The investigator approached REED and inquired about a purchase of a movie DVD and music CDs. The DVDs and CDs were displayed in the rear of REED’s vehicle, which also hung a handwritten sign showing “3 FOR $10” and “7 FOR $20.” The investigator purchased one music CD and two movie DVDs from REED for the sum of $10. The investigator examined the DVDs and CD and determined that they were counterfeit. Law enforcement agents seized approximately 7,187 counterfeit DVDs and 7,315 counterfeit CDs from REED’s vehicle.
On each count, REED faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of $250,000 and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier set sentencing July 9, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and Investigators from the Louisiana Department of Justice, Attorney General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Loan "Mimi" Nguyen is in charge of the prosecution.
Mississippi Woman Sentenced to 40 Months in Prison for Defrauding Local BusinessRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KIM PARISH, age 51, a resident of Picayune, Mississippi, was sentenced yesterday after previously pleading guilty to a two-count Bill of Information charging her with wire fraud and bank fraud.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced PARISH to 40 months imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and full restitution in the amount of $540,201.
According to court documents, for approximately four years, PARISH, in her position as an accountant for a local information technology service business, defrauded the business through two schemes. The first scheme involved PARISH issuing more than 200 checks to herself and to “petty cash” by forging the signature of the business’s owner. The second scheme involved PARISH improperly crediting herself with bonus pay through the business’s payroll system. PARISH took a variety of steps to conceal the schemes and defrauded the business of approximately $540,201.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorney Chandra Menon was in charge of the prosecution.
Kenner Tax Preparer Charged with Lying on Tax Returns by Failing to Declare More Than $450,000 in Income and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CHRISTIE ROBINSON, 39, of LaPlace, was charged today in a four-count Indictment with filing false statements on tax returns and three counts of aggravated identity theft.
According to the Indictment, ROBINSON is the owner and operator of a tax return preparation business in Kenner called CRR Services, LLC. ROBINSON received fees charged for the preparation of these individuals' tax returns. ROBINSON failed to include all of the substantial fees she received for income tax return preparation. In 2007, she declared $80,000 in fees and failed to disclose $195,000. In 2009, she disclosed $100,000 but failed to include an additional $67,000. In 2010, she declared $71,000 but failed to declare $149,000. Finally, in 2011 she declared $170,000 but excluded $60,000. For the four tax years (2007, 2009, 2010, and 2011), ROBINSON failed to disclose a total of $471,000 in income.
In the final three counts of the Indictment, ROBINSON is charged with aggravated identity theft for electronically filing three tax returns using individuals’ names, dates of birth and social security numbers without their permission.
If convicted on the tax charges, ROBINSON faces a possible maximum sentence of three years imprisonment, on each count and/or a fine of $100,000 and up to three years of supervised release, as well as having to reimburse the United States for the cost of the investigation.
If convicted on the aggravated identity theft, ROBINSON faces two years incarceration per count consecutive to any sentence she would receive on the tax counts, $250,000 fine, restitution to the victims, and three years supervised release.
The U. S. Attorney’s Office reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Jerome R. McDuffie, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation stated: “We are pleased with today's announcement regarding the indictment of Ms. Robinson. The tax system is built on the premise that taxpayers file accurate and timely tax returns. Our office will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the aggressive pursuit and prosecution of individuals who intentionally violate the nation's laws. Identity theft and the submission of false income tax returns are serious crimes that will be vigorously pursued by our agency."
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. of the Fraud Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Christie Robinson Indictment
Westwego Woman Sentenced for Conspiring to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CYNTHIA HEFLER, age 67, of Westwego, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for conspiring to commit bank fraud.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced HEFLER to 5 years of probation and ordered her to pay $16,851 in restitution.
According to court documents, HEFLER, worked as the office manager for A & H Armature Works, Inc. In her capacity as office manager, HEFLER handled the company’s accounts receivable and embezzled from the company business bank accounts at First American Bank. HEFLER conspired with another person to steal the company’s funds in order to help pay off her credit card debt accrued through gambling.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, New Orleans Field Division and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Loan A "Mimi" Nguyen.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Use of a Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ESMIN ESPINOZA-ERAZO, age 25, a citizen of Honduras who resides in Hammond, pled guilty today to a one-count Indictment for illegal use of a Social Security Number (“SSN”).
According to the Indictment, on or about July 16, 2013, ESPINOZA-ERAZO submitted a SSN which 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 ESPINOZA-ERAZO a Louisiana identification card.
ESPINOZA-ERAZO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five years, a fine of $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00. Additionally, ESPINOZA-ERAZO is also subject to a period of supervised release after imprisonment of up to three years. U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing for July 8, 2015.
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.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TONY AXELL ROMERO-MONTOYA, age 28, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Indictment charging him with illegal reentry into the United States.
According to the court documents, on February 25, 2015, Tony Axell Romero-Montoya was found in the United States after having been deported previously on September 17, 2012.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing in this matter for May 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.
Tony Axell Romero-Montoya Factual Basis
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DENYS JAVIER BENITEZ-FERNANDEZ, age 31, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty to a one-count Indictment charging him with illegal reentry into the United States.
According to the court documents, on January 22, 2015, Denys Javier Benitez-Fernandez was found in the United States after having been deported on April 24, 2013.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for May 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.
Denys Benitez-Fernandez Factual Basis
Guatemalan National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ALVARO D. CAMPOS, age 39, a citizen of Guatemala, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced CAMPOS to 7 months incarceration, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Following incarceration, CAMPOS will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court records, on or about October 1, 2014, CAMPOS was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on three prior occasions, most recently on or about November 14, 2013.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters was in charge of the prosecution.
Guatemalan National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ALVARO D. CAMPOS, age 39, a citizen of Guatemala, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced CAMPOS to 7 months incarceration, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Following incarceration, CAMPOS will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court records, on or about October 1, 2014, CAMPOS was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on three prior occasions, most recently on or about November 14, 2013.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
Texas Company Charged with Violations of the Federal Lacey ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that GARCIA SHRIMP CO., LLC, a Texas Limited Liability Company headquartered in Brownsville, Texas, was charged today in a one-count Bill of Information for falsely labeling shrimp that it sold to a New Orleans seafood distributor in violation the Federal Lacey Act.
According to the Bill of Information, on or about October 9, 2012, GARCIA SHRIMP purchased 35,000 pounds of Mexican shrimp from Mexican businessmen. After taking receipt of the shrimp, company personnel removed Mexico labels from the packages and attached new tags indicating that the shrimp was caught in U.S. waters. Company personnel also created false records and bills of lading to make it appear that the shrimp was caught by a U.S. flagged fishing vessel. On or about October 12, 2012, GARCIA SHRIMP sold the shrimp to a New Orleans based seafood distributor for $120,800.
If convicted, GARCIA SHRIMP CO., LLC faces a maximum fine of $500,000 and an organizational probationary term of five years.
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 U.S Department of Commerce NOAA Office of Law Enforcement, in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis and Department of Justice Trial Attorney Christopher L. Hale with the Environmental Crimes Section in Washington D.C. are in charge of the prosecution.
Eleven Plead Guilty in Heroin Trafficking Conspiracy; Two Plead Guilty to Distribution Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TERENCE TAYLOR, age 36; ARTHUR MCKINNIS, age 24; NOEL JONES, age 27; TERRELL DYER, age 30; PERCY DEPRON, age 28; ERNEST DIAZ, age 25; MALCOLM BOLDEN, age 20; TERRELL DAVIS, age 24; and MELVIN SMITH, age 30, all pled guilty today to an Indictment for conspiring to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin in the New Orleans area. TAYLOR and BOLDEN also pled guilty to distribution of heroin resulting in an overdose death. Two additional defendants, NARCISSE TROTTER, age 43, and AARONISHA LEWIS, age 26, also pled guilty to charges of using telephones in furtherance of the conspiracy.
According to court documents, the investigation of this trafficking organization included multiple court-authorized wiretaps by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Police Department High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group, including taps of cell phones used by TAYLOR and MCKINNIS to communicate with suppliers, other co-conspirators, and customers. DEA worked together with agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) 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 TAYLOR and others 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, TAYLOR or another dealer 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.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt scheduled sentencing for June 24, 2015, as to all eleven defendants. TAYLOR and BOLDEN will face a sentence of twenty years to life in connection with the overdose death and a sentence of ten years to life regarding the conspiracy. MCKINNIS, JONES, DYER, DEPRON, DIAZ, DAVIS, and SMITH each face a sentence of ten years to life for their roles in the heroin conspiracy. TROTTER’s and LEWIS’s charges carry a sentence of up to four years per count. Trial as to the remaining defendant, THEODORE GRIFFIN, is scheduled for May 4, 2015.
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 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 are in charge of the prosecution.
Eleven Plead Guilty in Heroin Trafficking Conspiracy; Two Plead Guilty to Distribution Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TERENCE TAYLOR, age 36; ARTHUR MCKINNIS, age 24; NOEL JONES, age 27; TERRELL DYER, age 30; PERCY DEPRON, age 28; ERNEST DIAZ, age 25; MALCOLM BOLDEN, age 20; TERRELL DAVIS, age 24; and MELVIN SMITH, age 30, all pled guilty today to an Indictment for conspiring to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin in the New Orleans area. TAYLOR and BOLDEN also pled guilty to distribution of heroin resulting in an overdose death. Two additional defendants, NARCISSE TROTTER, age 43, and AARONISHA LEWIS, age 26, also pled guilty to charges of using telephones in furtherance of the conspiracy.
According to court documents, the investigation of this trafficking organization included multiple court-authorized wiretaps by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Police Department High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group, including taps of cell phones used by TAYLOR and MCKINNIS to communicate with suppliers, other co-conspirators, and customers. DEA worked together with agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) 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 TAYLOR and others 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, TAYLOR or another dealer 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.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt scheduled sentencing for June 24, 2015, as to all eleven defendants. TAYLOR and BOLDEN will face a sentence of twenty years to life in connection with the overdose death and a sentence of ten years to life regarding the conspiracy. MCKINNIS, JONES, DYER, DEPRON, DIAZ, DAVIS, and SMITH each face a sentence of ten years to life for their roles in the heroin conspiracy. TROTTER’s and LEWIS’s charges carry a sentence of up to four years per count. Trial as to the remaining defendant, THEODORE GRIFFIN, is scheduled for May 4, 2015.
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 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 are in charge of the prosecution.
Cambodian National Indicted for Violations of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CHHAY LIM, age 44, a citizen of Cambodia, was charged today in a two-count Indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.
According to the Indictment, on or about March 2, 2015, LIM, an alien present illegally in the United States, was found in possession of a TriStar 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a Marlin Model 6082 .22 caliber rifle.
If convicted of these charges, LIM faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000, three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Cambodian National Indicted for Violations of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CHHAY LIM, age 44, a citizen of Cambodia, was charged today in a two-count Indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.
According to the Indictment, on or about March 2, 2015, LIM, an alien present illegally in the United States, was found in possession of a TriStar 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a Marlin Model 6082 .22 caliber rifle.
If convicted of these charges, LIM faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000, three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Raceland Man Indicted for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JAMIE PLAISANCE, age 38, of Raceland, was indicted today 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 that PLAISANCE was 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.
Court records also revealed that PLAISANCE has a prior federal conviction for possession of child pornography.
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.
Due to his prior conviction, if convicted, 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 $250,000.00 fine.
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.
Postal Worker Indicted for Theft of MailRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOHNNY BAHAM, age 53, of Mandeville, was indicted today for theft of mail.
According to the Indictment, BAHAM was employed as a contract letter carrier in Mandeville, Louisiana. A federal investigation revealed that in December 2014, BAHAM stole first class mail containing two $75.00 Master Card gift cards from his mail route.
If convicted, BAHAM faces a maximum penalty of five years imprisonment, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
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 Inspection Service, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Bank FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that GAIL TEAGUE, 48, of New Orleans, pled guilty yesterday to defrauding Ochsner Federal Credit Union in connection with the theft of funds during her employment.
According to the Bill of Information, TEAGUE was employed by Ochsner Federal Credit Union, first as a part-time employee and subsequently as office manager at the credit union from approximately 2000 until approximately May 2013. TEAGUE admitted to stealing $34,000 by creating a fraudulent loan. Specifically, in or around January, 2013, TEAGUE created a fictitious loan in the name “William Morris.” This loan was disbursed in the form of an official credit union check made payable to a local automobile dealership. The check was redeposited into the credit union. TEAGUE then withdrew $34,000 cash from the vault. Credit Union auditors interviewed TEAGUE and she signed a hand written confession on May 17, 2013 acknowledging that she stole $34,000.
TEAGUE faces a possible maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. set sentencing for July 15, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National Credit Union Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. of the Fraud Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Gretna Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KEITH JOSEPH MCGEE, age 31, of Gretna, was sentenced today for various charges of sexual exploitation of children. In June 2014, a federal jury found MCGEE guilty of 3 counts, specifically: attempting to coerce a minor to produce images of sexually explicit conduct; receiving sexually explicit images of a 14-year-old boy; and receiving sexually explicit images from a 15-year old boy.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced MCGEE to 180 months imprisonment, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
According to evidence introduced in trial, MCGEE, formerly a foreign language teacher at several Catholic high schools, posted numerous personal advertisements on an online classified advertisement website designed seeking sexual interactions with “young teens” and “Catholic high school boys.” Additionally, between January 29, 2013, and February 11, 2013, MCGEE corresponded with two actual minors and an undercover FBI agent posing as a minor by e-mail, text message, and on smartphone social media applications. During those correspondences, MCGEE confirmed that each person was a minor and then repeatedly encouraged and enticed them to provide him with sexually explicit pictures. In addition to seeking sexually explicit pictures, MCGEE attempted to arrange sexual liaisons with the boys, including driving to the home of the 15-year-old boy at around 2:00 a.m. Additionally, evidence introduced at trial indicated that MCGEE engaged in sexually explicit conversations and exchanged sexually explicit pictures with approximately six other minors who have not been identified.
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 in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and Patrice Harris Sullivan were in charge of the prosecution.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to over 5 Years in Prison for Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that STEPHEN FARRELL, age 25, of Metairie, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced FARRELL to 68 months of incarceration, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, on May 8, 2013, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives searched FARRELL’s residence located at 705 Central Avenue in Metairie. During the search, detectives found a loaded Taurus International .380 caliber firearm and ammunition.
Court records revealed that FARRELL was convicted on or about February 6, 2007, of attempted armed robbery in the 24th Judicial District Court in Jefferson Parish. As such, he was prohibited from possessing firearms by both state and federal law.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New Orleans Division Office and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nolan D. Paige was in charge of the investigation.
Bookkeeper Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud for Embezzling over $700,000 from Community Health CharitiesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that PATRICIA BLANCHARD, age 67, formerly of New Orleans, pled guilty yesterday to mail fraud for her role in embezzling approximately $715,000 from Community Health Charities of Louisiana and Mississippi (“CHC”).
According to court documents, BLANCHARD’S husband, G.B., was hired in 2000 to be the Executive Director and President of CHC, a not-for-profit charitable organization that raised, collected, and distributed funds to local charities through workplace giving campaigns. CHC received pledges from federal civilian, postal, and military donors to support eligible non-profit organizations. In about 2005, he arranged for BLANCHARD to be hired as CHC’s bookkeeper. As bookkeeper, BLANCHARD was responsible for overseeing CHC’s finances and accounts, including reconciling accounts payable and receivables.
Between 2006 and November 2011, BLANCHARD embezzled approximately $715,000 from CHC in three ways. First, she mailed checks drawn on CHC’s accounts to pay her own credit card bills. To disguise her behavior and make the checks look legitimate, BLANCHARD added fictitious notes on the checks, such as “Cancer Research Institute,” “AIDS Research Foundation,” “MARCH OF DIMES,” “NO AIDS/TASK FORCE,” “American Heart Assoc.,” and “AMERICAN CANCER SOCIETY.” Second, BLANCHARD obtained cash advances on her Shell gas card without authorization and reimbursed herself from CHC’s accounts, making it look like the reimbursement were for legitimate travel and gas expenses. Third, BLANCHARD paid for personal expenditures and items directly from CHC’s bank accounts without authorization.
BLANCHARD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years in prison, three years of supervised release after any term of imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine. As part of her plea, BLANCHARD also agreed to repay CHC for the amount she stole, $715,000. U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo set sentencing on June 25, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Slidell Woman Sentenced for Embezzlement of Union FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ANDREA HOBGOOD, age 36, of Slidell, was sentenced today, having pled guilty to embezzlement of union funds. HOBGOOD had been a union’s office manager and, on more than 100 occasions, failed to deposit members’ dues payments into the union’s bank account and instead kept and spent the money for herself.
U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan sentenced HOBGOOD to 5 years probation and ordered her to pay restitution.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Chandra Menon was in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ERIC SAMUEL MOTINO-ALVAREZ, age 26, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to the Indictment, on or about January 29, 2015, MOTINO-ALVAREZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about October 2, 2009.
MOTINO-ALVAREZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a fine of $250,000, one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan set sentencing for May 20, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Woman Charged with Stealing Federal Grant Money from Open World Family ServicesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KIM CASSELL, age 42, of New Orleans, was charged in a one-count Bill of Information last Friday with stealing money from Open World Family Services, Inc. (“Open World”). Open World was a non-profit 501(c)(3) charitable corporation organized for the purpose of helping students in the greater New Orleans area grow academically.
According to the Bill of Information, from March 2010 until June 2012, CASSELL knowingly used more than $140,000 in federal grant money for her personal benefit, rather than for its intended educational purposes.
If convicted, CASSELL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and restitution to the United States Department of Education.
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 U.S. Department of Education, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Office of the Louisiana Legislative Auditor in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman is in charge of the prosecution.
San Diego Real Estate Developer Sentenced for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TIMOTHY MONAHAN, age 36, a real estate developer from San Diego, California, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to committing wire fraud.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced MONAHAN to one year and one day incarceration, followed by two years of supervised release. Restitution to the Bolivar Investment Group, LLC in the amount of $140,525.19 was paid prior to sentencing.
According to court documents, in about late 2008, MONAHAN and his business partner, “M.H.,” sought investors to invest approximately $3,000,000 for the acquisition of an approximately five-acre tract of land adjacent to the Lakeview Regional Medical Center in Covington, Louisiana, and the development of two office buildings on that land. MONAHAN and M.H. convinced Bolivar Investors Group, L.L.C., an investment group organized by members of the Crescent River Port Pilots= Association, to invest the money. In February 2009, MONAHAN, his partner, and Bolivar created a new entity, ANewtrac West,@ to facilitate the purchase and development. As part of the agreement, Bolivar agreed to fund a $3,000,000 capital contribution to Newtrac West. Shortly thereafter, MONAHAN and his business partner opened a bank account in the name of Newtrac West; while representatives of Bolivar were supposed to have access to the account, in truth only MONAHAN and M.H. had access. Between January 20, 2009, and July 14, 2009, Bolivar made six deposits, including five by wire, into the Newtrac West bank account, totaling approximately $3,000,000.
Between January 20, 2009, and July 27 2009, MONAHAN used approximately $140,525.19 from the account without authorization to pay expenses and debts apart from and unrelated to the purchase or development of the land in Covington.
Subsequently, MONAHAN and M.H. devised a scheme to hide the misuse of funds. Specifically, false financial and bank statements of Newtrac West, based on the real bank statements for the Newtrac West account, were created to hide the unauthorized withdrawal of funds and to deceive representatives of Bolivar into believing that Newtrac West was in excellent financial condition. For example, while the Newtrac West account had a true balance of negative $29,292.45 on September 30, 2009, the doctored statement represented that the account had a balance of $826,512.92.
MONAHAN’S partner, M.H., was charged in the Eastern District of Louisiana in August 2013 for his role in the above-described scheme. He pleaded guilty in the Southern District of California and was sentenced to twenty-four months in jail earlier this year.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg was in charge of the prosecution.
Marrero Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Hurricane Gustav Recovery FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CAROLYN TREAUDO, age 54, of Marrero, pled guilty yesterday to theft of government funds. TREAUDO admitted to stealing approximately $94,840 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency during 2009 and 2010. The funds were administered by the Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness under a program to return disaster-affected locations, including schools, to pre-disaster conditions by reimbursing expenses and paying replacement costs.
According to court documents, TREAUDO obtained the funds by making false representations in connection with a property associated with her non-profit organization, Conquering Word Christian Academy. TREAUDO represented that the location was a school prior to Hurricane Gustav, when, as she well knew, the location had not been registered as a school with the state prior to this disaster. TREAUDO also intentionally and repeatedly submitted claims for reimbursement of fictitious expenditures and for replacement of fictitious supplies. TREAUDO bolstered these claims with false invoices to make it appear as if she had spent funds on repairs and supplies when, as she well knew, these expenditures had not occurred.
TREAUDO faces up to ten years’ incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing for June 24, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security - Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter and thanked the Louisiana Legislative Auditor for its assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon is in charge of this prosecution.
Guatemalan National Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ESWIN ESTUARDO MARTINEZ-REYES, age 42, a citizen of Guatemala, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced MARTINEZ-REYES to time served and a $100 special assessment. MARTINEZ-REYES will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, MARTINEZ-REYES was found in the United States on December 2, 2014, after having been officially deported and removed on or about June 7, 2013.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Doctor and Clinic Owner Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSEPH J. MOGAN, III, M.D., age 48, formerly of New Orleans, and TIFFANY MILLER, age 43, of Metairie, were sentenced yesterday for conspiring to dispense prescription drugs illegally through “pill mill” clinics operated as Omni Pain Management in Metairie, Louisiana, and Omni Pain Management Plus in Slidell, Louisiana, and related money laundering charges.
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced MOGAN and MILLER each to a term of imprisonment of 97 months, a term of supervised release of 3 years, a $200 special assessment, and asset forfeiture of criminal proceeds and property.
According to court documents, MOGAN and MILLER owned and operated the two clinics and conspired to prescribe narcotics and other controlled substances without a legitimate medical purpose and outside the bounds of professional medical practice to drug seekers and drug abusers.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. First Assistant United States Attorney Richard W. Westling and Assistant United States Attorneys Harry “Bill” McSherry and Michael B. Redmann were in charge of the prosecution.