Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Trinidad and Tobago Resident Sentenced for Transporting Seven Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JUNIOR LEOPOLD, age 38, of Trinidad and Tobago, was sentenced yesterday for bringing seven kilograms of cocaine into the United States.
U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced LEOPOLD to 45 months incarceration and two years of supervised release.
On June 11, 2014, LEOPOLD pleaded guilty to one count of possession with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. As part of the plea, LEOPOLD, who worked on a ship that was traveling from Trinidad and Tobago to the United States, admitted that he was being paid $5,000 per kilogram to bring the cocaine into the United States.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Men Sentenced for Heroin Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TERRIOUES OWNEY, age 27, and DARICK WALLACE, age 25, both of New Orleans, were sentenced today for their roles in a heroin distribution conspiracy.
On February 13, 2014, OWNEY pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, and one count of using a telephone to further the drug conspiracy.
On February 27, 2014, WALLACE pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Additionally, WALLACE was eligible for a sentencing enhancement for having previously been convicted of a felony drug offense.
U.S. District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown sentenced OWNEY to 151 months incarceration, five years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment. WALLACE was sentenced to 120 months incarceration, 8 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms, the New Orleans Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sharan Lieberman, Maurice Landrieu, Jr. and Matthew Payne were in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Bail Bondswoman Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JANET SMITH, age 44, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging her with conspiracy to commit mail fraud.
According to court documents, SMITH became a licensed bail bondwoman in 1996. She later permitted her name, license, and contracts with two insurance companies to be used to operate an illegal bail bonding business located at 538 S. Broad Street in New Orleans.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo scheduled sentencing for March 5, 2015. SMITH faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and three years supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter, and the assistance of the Metropolitan Crime Commission, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael B. Redmann and Mark A. Miller are in charge of the prosecution.
Marrero Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment after Conviction for Arson Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CYRUS CASBY, age 29, from Marrero, Louisiana, was sentenced today following his conviction at trial for arson resulting in death and injury.
U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon sentenced CASBY to life imprisonment.
CASBY was convicted following a five day trial that concluded on August 16, 2013, with CASBY being convicted of maliciously damaging or destroying by means of fire, 1005 Tallowtree, Apartment “C”, Harvey, Louisiana as charged in the Indictment. The Indictment also charged and the jury found that 19-month-old Cyanna Carto, CASBY’s daughter, and 11-year- old Cleveland McGinnis, Jr. died and 10-year-old Jarvis Carto, 32-year-old Janice Carto and Fireman Walter Allen were injured as a direct and proximate result of the fire started by CASBY. The trial evidence showed CASBY repeatedly stabbed Cynthia Carto, Cyanna Carto’s mother, and Janice Carto in an upstairs bedroom of the apartment. Autopsies revealed that Cynthia Carto died as a result of the stab wounds, though Janice Carto survived for a brief time after being stabbed though dying after the fire was initiated. Following the stabbings, CASBY then used an accelerant to start a fire at the top of the second floor stair landing, effectively trapping the remaining occupants in the second floor of the apartment. Autopsies revealed that Cyanna Carto and Cleveland McGinnis, Jr. died as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning resulting from smoke inhalation. Jarvis Carto was injured as a result of carbon monoxide poisoning and Fireman Walter Allen was injured while assisting in fire-fighting and rescue efforts.
“We thank the court for imposing a sentence of life,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “It is certainly warranted, given Cyrus Casby’s criminal rampage which resulted in several homicides. Today’s sentence reflects the coordinated efforts of our federal prosecutors, the ATF, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Fire Department, and the Harvey Fire Department.”
Assistant United States Attorneys William J. Quinlan, Jr. and Greg Kennedy were in charge of the prosecution.
Lacombe Man Sentenced for Assaulting a Federal Officer with a Pickup TruckRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KORY KREIDER, age 23, of Lacombe, was sentenced today for assaulting a federal officer.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced KREIDER to 46 months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release and a $100 special assessment. A hearing to determine restitution is scheduled for December 11, 2014.
According to court documents, in May 2014 officers intercepted a package containing 1,200 pills of Alprazolam (generic Xanax) addressed to a post office box at the Royal Mail and Parcel on Metairie Road in Metairie, Louisiana. Officers delivered the package to Royal Mail and later observed KREIDER pick up the package and walk back to his pickup truck. When KREIDER was instructed to stop, he entered his truck and took off, making evasive maneuvers in order to avoid arrest. At one point, KREIDER headed toward the exit of a parking lot, and a task force officer moved to block the exit with his vehicle. KREIDER rammed the officer’s vehicle, pushing it out of the way, and made good his escape.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann was in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSE LEMUS-HERNANDEZ, age 28, 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 October 30, 2014, JOSE LEMUS-HERNANDEZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about April 16, 2012.
JOSE LEMUS-HERNANDEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years and a fine of $250,000, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant, one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for April 8, 2015.
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 is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Reentering United StatesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSUE ALEXANDER HERNANDEZ-MARTINEZ, age 29, 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 August 26, 2014, HERNANDEZ-MARTINEZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on three prior occasions – June 29, 2006, December 14, 2006, and April 20, 2012.
HERNANDEZ-MARTINEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years and a fine of $250,000, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant, one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for March 12, 2015.
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 Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Charged with Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that EDUIN ALEXANDER BETANCOURTH-SALGADO, age 26, from Honduras, was charged today in a one-count Indictment with illegal reentry into the United States after having been previously deported.
According to the Indictment, BETANCOURTH-SALGADO was found by Homeland Security Investigation agents in the Eastern District of Louisiana after records showed on April 15, 2011, he had been previously deported from the United States to Honduras.
If convicted, BETANCOURTH-SALGADO 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 Homeland Security Investigation agents in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
Hammond Couple Sentenced for Conspiracy to Make, Possess and Pass Counterfeit U.S. CurrencyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSHUA ORSO, age 27, and BRITTANY WATTIGNEY, age 25, both of Hammond, were sentenced today for conspiracy to make, possess, and pass counterfeit U.S. currency.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced ORSO and WATTINGNEY each to 18 months incarceration followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, law enforcement officers, utilizing a cooperating individual, conducted an undercover controlled purchase of $2,000 worth of counterfeit U.S. currency in exchange for $350 of genuine U.S. currency from ORSO and WATTIGNEY at their residence. A search warrant executed at their residence resulted in the seizure of evidence that was used to manufacture the counterfeit currency. ORSO and WATTIGNEY were arrested by law enforcement officers, who seized additional counterfeit U.S. currency.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Secret Service, New Orleans Field Office, the Louisiana State Police, and the Hammond Police Department for investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Loan "Mimi" Nguyen was in charge of the prosecution.
Grand Isle Man Sentenced for Assaulting Two African-American Women Because of Their Race and Employment StatusRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that Grand Isle businessman JOSH JAMBON was sentenced to 1 year probation on each count for assaulting two African-American women because of both their race and employment status. One condition of probation is that JAMBON serve 25 consecutive weekends days incarcerated at the Bureau of Prisons. In addition to the probation, JAMBON was fined $10,000. The victims, identified as M.R. and N.S., were members of a Hurricane Isaac relief crew.
During a plea hearing on July 2, 2014, JAMBON admitted that he assaulted the two female African-American workers because of both their race and employment status. On Sept. 18, 2012, in Grand Isle, JAMBON approached a work crew tasked with cleaning up debris from Hurricane Isaac. JAMBON was upset because he believed a different work crew had damaged his property, and he asked to speak to the crew’s supervisor. During this interaction, JAMBON used racial slurs against the female African-American crew members. JAMBON then approached one of the women, N.S., and hit her in the face. He then hit the other woman, M.R., in the face. When JAMBON saw a third crew member, B.W., filming the incident on her cell phone, JAMBON initiated a physical struggle with B.W. in an attempt to take her cell phone so that he could delete the video.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Risa Berkower of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Chester of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Grand Isle Man Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud in Connection with GCCF ClaimRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RONNIE P. VEDROS, 52, of Grand Isle, pled guilty today to one count of mail fraud.
According to court documents, VEDROS’s charges stem from an application he submitted to the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) in the aftermath of the explosion and oil spill at the Deepwater Horizon oil rig. VEDROS claimed to have lost earnings as a commercial fisherman and engineer as a result of the oil spill and provided documentation to prove his loss. In reality, as set forth in the factual basis, VEDROS was neither a commercial fisherman nor employed as an engineer at the time of the disaster and the documentation submitted had been falsified. As a result of VEDROS’s false application, he received approximately $30,173.56 in funds from the GCCF he was not entitled to.
VEDROS faces a maximum penalty of twenty years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk scheduled sentencing for March 12, 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.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Secret Service in investigating this case. Assistant U. S. Attorney Matt Chester is in charge of the prosecution.
Former New Orleans Tax Return Preparer, Indicted for Theft of Public Money, Wire Fraud, Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
DONALD STEWART, age 58, a former tax return preparer and resident of New Orleans, was indicted today for six counts of theft of public funds, two counts of wire fraud, and six counts of aggravated identity theft, announced United States Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Larry J. Wszalek of the Justice Department’s Tax Division. According to the indictment, STEWART acted as a return preparer from approximately 2001 through 2008, before the IRS suspended his Electronic Filing Information Number.
As charged in the indictment, from January 2011 through February 2012, STEWART caused federal tax refunds in the names of others to be electronically deposited into bank accounts under his control. These deposits totaled approximately $37,809. STEWART is charged with two counts of wire fraud related to his filing of two specific false income tax returns in early 2011. The indictment further alleges that STEWART cashed or deposited U.S. Treasury checks, which represented federal income tax refunds, at a bank in the New Orleans area. These U.S. Treasury checks totaled approximately $539,393. Finally, STEWART is charged with aggravated identity theft for using the means of identification of others during and in relation with wire fraud and theft of public money.
STEWART faces a maximum term of twenty years imprisonment for each wire fraud charge, ten years imprisonment for each theft of public money count, and a mandatory term of two years imprisonment for each charge of aggravated identity theft. As to each count, he also faces a fine of $250,000, or twice the gross gain or loss caused by the offense, and terms of supervised release.
U. S. Attorney Polite and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Wszalek reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Tax Division Trial Attorneys Hayden Brockett and Lauren Castaldi and Assistant United States Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr.
Chamico Employees Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Mail FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JERRY ATHEY, age 56, DAVID LOWE, age 48, and TERRY CASTILOW, age 48, all of Bogalusa, Louisiana, were sentenced yesterday for their roles in a scheme to defraud the Louisiana Workforce Commission of unemployment benefits.
U.S. District Court Judge Helen G. Berrigan sentenced ATHEY and LOWE to three years probation. CASTILOW was sentenced to 8 months home confinement and 5 years probation.
CASTILOW, LOWE, and ATHEY, were indicted in April 2014 – along with CHARLES “CHUCK” MIZELL, JR., JAMES CREEL, WILLIAM DARRYL KING, TENILLE NIELSON, JACQUELINE MYERS, and ROGER NADEAU – for mail fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud. According to the indictment, beginning at a time unknown, but no later than on or about September 24, 2009, and continuing through on or about January 11, 2014, MIZELL, JR., CASTILOW, KING, LOWE, CREEL, ATHEY, NIELSON, MYERS, and NADEAU, conspired to defraud the Louisiana Workforce Commission (“LWC”) of money and property by means of false and fraudulent representations, pretenses and promises, well knowing the representations, pretenses and promises were false, and mailed and caused to be mailed through the United States Postal Service unemployment (“UI”) benefit claim forms for the purpose of obtaining UI benefits to which they were not entitled. Specifically, at the time CASTILOW, KING, LOWE, CREEL, ATHEY, NIELSON, MYERS, and NADEAU applied for UI benefits and made weekly representations to LWC that they were unemployed and not getting paid, MIZELL, JR., actually employed them at Chamico, Inc., a Bogalusa construction company that concentrates on public, municipal, and industrial contracts.
MIZELL, JR., was the President of Chamico and, according to the factual bases signed by CASTILOW, LOWE, and ATHEY, he asked them to fraudulently file for unemployment so that he would not have to pay their full salaries during tough economic times for Chamico. CASTILOW, LOWE and ATHEY would each get cash from Chamico during the weeks they were claiming unemployment benefits reporting that they were not working and not getting any income from work.
In 2009, CASTILOW had personally participated in the unemployment scheme with MIZELL, JR., but when she became Chamico’s office manager in 2013 she assisted MIZELL, JR. in facilitating the scheme for the other employees. According to the factual basis for CASTILOW’s plea, she completed the unemployment forms for six Chamico employees, fraudulently representing to the Louisiana Workforce Commission that the employees did not work at Chamico when she knew that they were working and/or receiving income from Chamico. CASTILOW kept the payroll records for the employees and the ledgers showing how much cash each employee who was participating in the unemployment scheme was to receive each week. CASTILOW cashed the checks that MIZELL, JR. endorsed for those employees he was paying while they were drawing unemployment and still working for him. On pay day, those employees picked up the cash payments from CASTILOW.
MYERS pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and on September 24, 2014, was sentenced to three years probation.
MIZELL, KING, CREEL and NIELSON previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and are scheduled to be sentenced on January 28, 2015.
The trial of the ROGER NADEAU is scheduled for February 2, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Labor-OIG and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Louisiana Workforce Commission in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield is in charge of the prosecution.
Avondale Drug Runner Sentenced to 78 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRADLEY S. WILLIAMS, age 49, of Avondale, was sentenced today following his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine hydrochloride. On August 2, 2013, WILLIAMS was one of 15 defendants charged in a 17-count superseding indictment.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced WILLIAMS to a 78-month term of imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release.
This case evolved from the FBI New Orleans Gang Task Force investigation into the drug trafficking activities of BYRON EVANS. The investigation revealed that EVANS supplied kilogram quantities of heroin and cocaine to distributors located in the greater New Orleans area. EVANS acquired both the heroin and cocaine that he supplied to his distributors from two Columbian foreign nationals, both illegally present in the United States, YULIAN GABRIEL VERA-OLIVEROS, a/k/a “Paco,” and EZEQUIEL PADILLA ROMERO, a/k/a “Alvaro Herney Cortes,” a/k/a “Cookie.” One of the Columbians, ROMERO also pled guilty and acknowledged supplying EVANS not less than 10 kilograms of heroin for distribution. EVANS typically had his runners transport his heroin and cocaine to New Orleans on what is known as the dollar bus/Megabus. At times during the course of the conspiracy charged WILLIAMS transported heroin from Houston to New Orleans via the Megabus. WILLIAMS also acted as a street-level distributor of heroin for EVANS and supplied customers located in the Greater New Orleans area.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney J. Collin Sims is in charge of the prosecution.
Metairie Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statements on Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TIMOTHY DUCKWORTH, age 47, of Metairie, pleaded guilty today to making false statements on income tax returns.
According to court documents, DUCKWORTH made false statements on his tax return for the year 2007 under-reporting his income in the amount of approximately $610,495, which resulted in DUCKWORTH having taxes due and owing in the amount of approximately $213,579.
DUCKWORTH faces a maximum term of imprisonment of three years in prison, one year of supervised release after any term of imprisonment and a $100,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle scheduled sentencing for March 25, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Laplace Man Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Claims for Oil Spill CompensationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CHARLIE ENGLISH, age 33, a resident of LaPlace, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to fraudulent applications he 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, the GCCF made disaster assistance money available to individuals and businesses affected by the oil spill resulting from the Deepwater Horizon explosion. The GCCF required individuals to verify loss of income. ENGLISH worked as a claims adjuster for the GCCF. Beginning in or about September 2010, ENGLISH, provided fraudulent documentation to his co-conspirators who posed as claimants, and submitted and/or caused to be submitted, via the internet, false claims for loss earnings representing that the claimants were employed in a commercial fishing business before the oil spill when in fact the claimants did not work in the commercial fishing industry. ENGLISH was to share in the claim proceeds in exchange for his assistance with the claims. Based on the fraudulent documentation, the GCCF issued approximately $257,400 to undeserving individuals.
ENGLISH faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan scheduled sentencing for March 11, 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.
U.S. Attorney Polite 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.
Former Orleans Criminal District Court Employee Pleads Guilty to Role in Bail Bonds FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that PATRICIA TATE, age 50, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging conspiracy to commit honest services mail fraud.
According to court documents, TATE accepted cash payments to facilitate an illegal bail bonding business located at 538 S. Broad Street in New Orleans. TATE’s activities included accessing official-use criminal justice records, delivering pre-certified bail bonds to the bail business, and other activities to assist the business outside the scope of her official duties.
U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan scheduled sentencing for March 11, 2015. TATE faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Metropolitan Crime Commission, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael B. Redmann and Mark A. Miller are in charge of the prosecution.
Covington Man Pleads Guilty to Lacey Act ViolationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LAWRENCE TREIGLE, age 33, of Covington, pleaded guilty today to a one-count Superseding Bill of Information charging him with conspiring to smuggle turtles out of the United States and to violation of the Lacey Act.
According to the Superseding Bill of Information, TREIGLE 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.
TREIGLE faces a maximum term of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan scheduled sentencing for March 11, 2015.
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 is in charge of the prosecution.
Bogalusa Man Sentenced for Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DONNIE PITTMAN, age 52, of Bogalusa, was sentenced yesterday, having previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base and misprision of a felony.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced PITTMAN to 36 months incarceration and three years of supervised release.
On February 6, 2014, PITTMAN was one of 15 defendants charged in an 8-count indictment. According to court documents, the indictment was based on court-authorized wiretaps that recorded conversations between STEVEN HAYNES, who has pleaded guilty in this case, and the defendant, concerning the distribution of powder cocaine that was later converted to crack and sold in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and Washington Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. McMahon is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican National Guilty of Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RIGO PACHECO-RODRIGUEZ, age 25, a Mexican citizen who was illegally in the United States, was sentenced yesterday after previously pleading guilty to a one-count indictment for illegal entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
United States District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced PACHECO-RODRIGUEZ to time served, followed by 1 year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, on July 6, 2014, PACHECO-RODRIGUEZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on May 19, 2014.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security/Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Man Pleads Guilty to Violation of Outer Continental Shelf Lands ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SEAN GRANGER, 36, of Rayne, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to knowingly and willfully tampering with a method of record required to be maintained under the Outer Continental Shelf Lands Act.
According to court documents, on June 4, 2012, GRANGER was employed as a coil tubing supervisor to perform coil tubing services on a well at a drilling rig located in the Gulf of Mexico at Ship Shoal 359 in the Eastern District of Louisiana. Prior to starting the contracted coil tubing services at Ship Shoal 359, GRANGER tested his coil tubing unit’s blowout preventer. A coil tubing unit should not be placed into service for the contract until all the BOP components pass pressure testing.
The results of BOP tests are recorded on a circular graphic chart known as the BOP pressure test chart. To record pressures, a test chart is placed into a chart recorder that has a needle with a pen attached to it. As the recorder spins, the needle makes a record on the test chart of how much pressure the BOP components are holding. The BOP test chart is the record that inspectors review to determine if the BOP units are functioning properly.
On June 4, there were irregularities in the BOP testing process. Rather than take action to properly document the pressures of the BOP components or remedy the irregularities in the testing, GRANGER tampered with the pressure test chart by spinning it on the recorder. When inspectors reviewed the pressure test chart a few days later, they were unable to determine whether the BOP on the coil tubing unit was functioning properly.
U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Vance scheduled sentencing for March 18, 2015. GRANGER’s conviction carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and/or a maximum fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Interior-Office of Inspector General and Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement for their work on this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield of the United States Attorney’s Office’s National Security Unit prosecuted the case.
New Orleans Woman Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CAROLYN TREAUDO, age 53, of Marrero, was charged today in a one-count Bill of Information with theft of government funds.
According to the Bill of Information, in 2009 and 2010, TREAUDO stole approximately $94,840 from the Federal Emergency Management Agency. If convicted, TREAUDO faces up to ten years incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that a 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 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.
New Orleans Man Indicted for 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, was charged today in a two-count Indictment with Criminal Copyright Infringement.
According to the Indictment, REED reproduced and distributed more than 10 copies of one or more various sound recordings and motion pictures, which were protected by copyright and have a total aggregate retail value of more than $2,500, for the purpose of commercial advantage and private financial gain.
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. 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 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 AMimi@ Nguyen is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Polite announced that ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ-GALLARDO, age 32, a citizen of Mexico, pled guilty today to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of removed alien.
According to the indictment, on or about September 4, 2014, ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ-GALLARDO was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about October 29, 2012
ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ-GALLARDO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years and a fine of $250,000, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant, one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Triche Milazzo set sentencing for January 8, 2015.
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 Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Houma Man Charged with Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that PHILLIP BOOKER, age 59, of Houma, Louisiana, was charged today in a one-count Bill of Information with violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act.
According to the Bill of Information, BOOKER possessed with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Scheduled II drug controlled substance.
If convicted, BOOKER faces a maximum term of 20 years incarceration and/or a fine of $1,000,000, and 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. 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 Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran Man Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that EDIN ANTONIO PLEITES-ZAMORA, age 24, a citizen of Honduras who most recently resides in Houma, Louisiana, was charged today in a one-count Indictment with illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to the Indictment, PLEITES-ZAMORA reentered the United States on or about November 4, 2014, after having been previously removed on May 25, 2012.
If convicted, PLEITES-ZAMORA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, one year of supervised release of one year following any term of incarceration, 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 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.
Hammond Man Sentenced for Stolen Identity Refund FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DARRELL HARLAND, age 32, of Hammond, Louisiana, was sentenced today for stolen identity refund fraud.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced HARLAND to 32 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and ordered HARLAND to pay $65,168 in restitution to the IRS.
According to court documents, on May 3, 2012, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO) executed a search warrant at HARLAND’s residence. In the home, deputies found evidence of identity theft, including lists of names and social security numbers. HARLAND told deputies that he had purchased the stolen identities online.
At the request of the STPSO, the IRS determined that several of the stolen identities found in HARLAND’s residence had been used to file what appeared to be fraudulent tax returns. The IRS interviewed several of the individuals whose identities had been used and confirmed that these individuals had not given HARLAND the authority to file tax returns in their names and that all income and dependent information on the tax returns was false. IRS records show that HARLAND caused approximately $65,168 in loss to the IRS by filing fraudulent tax returns with stolen identities.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the Internal Revenue Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney G. Dall Kammer is in charge of the prosecution.
Guilty Pleas in Heroin Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ANTOINETTE KELLY, age 32, and AMBROSE WILLIAMS, age 43, both of New Orleans, pled guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.
On July 25, 2014, KELLY and WILLIAMS were two of 12 defendants charged in a 23-count indictment. According to court documents, this investigation targeted a heroin trafficking organization operating in New Orleans East. This organization was responsible for distributing at least 15 kilograms of heroin in New Orleans. Agents seized approximately $1,200,000 in assets (a combination of vehicles, currency, jewelry and real property) from members of this drug trafficking organization that were acquired with proceeds made from the sale of heroin.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier scheduled sentencing on March 5, 2015. KELLY is facing up to 20 years imprisonment and WILLIAMS is facing 10 years to life imprisonment. Trial is scheduled for February 23, 2015, for the seven remaining defendants.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney J. Collin Sims is in charge of the prosecution.
Belle Chase Man Pleads Guilty to Methylone DistributionRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LYLE RUGGLES, age 23, of Belle Chase, pled guilty today to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methylone.
On June 26, 2014, RUGGLES was one of three defendants charged in a one-count indictment. According to the factual basis, on May 13, 2013,law enforcement was alerted that RUGGLES, who was wanted for outstanding attachments, would be driving his Chevrolet Silverado on Interstate 10 from Kenner to New Orleans between 11:30 a.m. and noon. Detectives stopped RUGGLES at Interstate 610 and Canal Boulevard, and a search incident to arrest revealed a bag containing 31 capsules of methylone, along with other drugs.
U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon scheduled sentencing for February 5, 2015. RUGGLES faces 20 years imprisonment along with 3 years supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. McMahon is in charge of the prosecution.
Xplor Energy Pleads Guilty to Felony Clean Water Act ViolationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that XPLOR Energy SPV-1, Inc. (“XPLOR”), an Oklahoma corporation residing in Southlake, Texas, pled guilty today to a one-count bill of information which charged the company with knowingly violating the Clean Water Act, Title 33, United States Code, Section 1319(c)(2)(A). These charges concern XPLOR’s oil and gas production activities in the Breton Sound Area of the Gulf of Mexico. As part of the guilty plea, the company agreed to pay a total monetary penalty of $3.1 million and serve a three-year term of probation. If accepted by the Court, the $3.1 million monetary penalty will be divided as follows: $2.5 million to the United States Treasury, and $600,000 to Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality Trust Fund.
According to the court documents, from on or about November 24, 1997 until November 18, 2011, XPLOR operated the MP 35 offshore facility (“MP 35 Platform”). XPLOR operated the MP 35 Platform for the purpose of extracting oil and natural gas.
As part of the oil and gas production, separation and processing, XPLOR was tasked with disposing of the pollutant known as “produced water” or “brine” which is produced with the extracted oil and natural gas. The MP 35 Platform was designed to dispose of this pollutant by forcing the produced water, under pump generated pressure, into disposal/injection wells located in Gulf of Mexico waters near the MP 35 Platform.
In or near November, 2011, XPLOR transferred ownership and operation to another corporation. The platform’s new owner quickly discovered the platform was continuously discharging produced water containing oil and other harmful substances into the waters of the United States. The new owner immediately contacted regulatory authorities to report the discharge.
The ensuing investigation revealed that XPLOR had knowingly discharged produced water containing oil into waters of the United States without any permit from faulty injection lines/pipes leading from the platform to the disposal wells used to store the produced water containing oil, and from produced water disposal wells which had insufficient capacity to hold the produced water. Despite knowing of this consistent discharge from the injection lines and the insufficient capacity of their disposal wells, XPLOR failed to adequately repair these faulty injection lines and disposal wells. XPLOR’s intentional failure to make these repairs resulted in the repeated discharge of produced water containing oil into the waters of the United States from in or near October, 2009, and continuing through to November 18, 2011. XPLOR’s actions resulted in a total monetary savings or gain to them in the amount of approximately $1,550,000.
“Our federal and state law enforcement partners are committed to protecting our state's environment,” stated U.S.Attorney Kenneth Polite. “Our citizens simply demand that businesses not illegally pollute the waterways that sit at the center of our culture and economy.”
“We have a responsibility to ensure that Louisiana’s waterways are protected from harmful and illegal industrial discharges,” stated Ivan Viking, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Enforcement Program in Louisiana. “This case will make a real difference in protecting public health and conserving the environment. The community service payment is especially impressive, bolstering the hard work that state, local and federal partners have invested to restore the Gulf of Mexico.”
“Knowingly conducting unpermitted discharges of produced water from oil and gas production platforms is a crime,” said Peggy Hatch, Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality. “DEQ is proud of the collaborative work of our federal and state investigators to halt these illegal practices and bring the perpetrators to justice, and will continue to enforce state and federal laws that protect our environment.”
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set formal sentencing for March 4, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Criminal Investigation Division of the United States Environmental Protection Agency (“EPA-CID”) and the Criminal Investigation Division of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (“DEQ-CID”). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matt Coman.
Three Men Sentenced for Federal Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CLEMMON BRIDGES, age 56, of Houston, Texas, and DARIN FIELDS, age 32, of Bogalusa, Louisiana, were sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base. In addition, WALTER VAUGHN, age 49, of Amite, Louisiana, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced BRIDGES to a 30-month term of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release, FIELDS to a 151-month term of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release, and VAUGHN to a 37-month term of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release.
On February 6, 2014, BRIDGES, FIELDS, and VAUGHN were three of 15 defendants charged in an 8-count indictment. According to court documents, the indictment was based on court-authorized wiretaps that recorded conversations between STEVEN HAYNES and the defendants, concerning the distribution of powder cocaine that was later converted to crack and sold in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and Washington Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. McMahon is in charge of the prosecution.
Tax Return Preparer Sentenced to 97 Months in Prison for $10 Million Tax Fraud, Money Laundering ConspiraciesRead the Press Release
JACQUELINE J. ARIAS, 40, a tax return preparer from Spruce Pine, Alabama, was sentenced today for her role in conspiracies to file false tax returns and commit money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. and Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Larry J. Wszalek of the Justice Department’s Tax Division.
In addition to incarceration, U.S. District Court Judge Helen G. Berrigan sentenced ARIAS to 97 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and restitution to the United States totalling $10,589,326. ARIAS was further ordered to forfeit nearly $400,000 in United States currency that was seized as part of the case.
On July 8, 2014, ARIAS pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, six counts of mail fraud, and one count of money laundering conspiracy. As part of her plea, ARIAS admitted to her role in a years-long scheme to defraud the United States by filing false income tax returns that fraudulently claimed large tax refunds. ARIAS, her husband, and nineteen other individuals, all of whom were foreign nationals, as well as her tax preparation business were charged as part of the case. Sixteen defendants have pleaded guilty, four remain fugitives overseas, and one defendant, who was recently arrested in Panama, is currently set for trial in December.
All of the defendants in this case who pleaded guilty thus far were sentenced to the following terms of imprisonment: CESAR ALEJANDRO SORIANO (42 months); OSCAR ARMANDO PERDOMO, (42 months); YONI PERDOMO, (38 months); ARNULFO SANTOS-MEDRADO, (38 months); ELSIDES EDGARDO ALVARADO-CANALES, (36 months); ELIECER OBED RODRIGUEZ, (34 months); OCTAVIO JOSUE PERDOMO, (34 months); ELBER MENDOZA-LOPEZ, (34 months); AURELIO MONTIEL-MARTINEZ, (24 months); MILLER PERDOMO-ACEITUNO, ( 24 months); SANTOS MARTIN HERNANDEZ, (24 months); and SUSANA CARILLO MENDOZA, (19 months).
According to court documents, ARIAS and her coconspirators filed false returns listing Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (ITINs). An ITIN is a tax processing number issued by the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to individuals who do not have, and are not eligible to obtain, a Social Security Number. As alleged in the second superseding indictment, ARIAS was a Certified Acceptance Agent, meaning that she was entrusted by the IRS with the responsibility of reviewing the documentation of an ITIN applicant’s identity and alien status for authenticity, completeness and accuracy before submitting their application to the IRS. The indictment charged that ARIAS filed false applications for ITINs, false income tax returns, and collected preparation fees from the fraudulently-obtained tax refunds. The indictment also charged ARIAS with filing false tax returns for her corporation, JB Tax Professional Services, and for herself individually.
“The Department of Justice Tax Division remains committed to vigorously prosecuting complex, large-scale tax fraud schemes that often stretch across our borders,” stated Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Larry J. Wszalek of the Justice Department’s Tax Division. Ms. Arias’ sentence and the sentences of twelve of her co-conspirators, who are collectively spending over thirty-two years in prison, sends a strong message to return preparers and individuals who engage in this type of tax fraud. The Tax Division will continue to work with state and local authorities to prosecute these criminals and will resolutely pursue fugitives who commit tax crimes, as the recent arrest in Panama of a co-conspirator demonstrates.”
“Today's sentence reflects our Office's commitment to rooting out tax fraud,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “As a tax preparer, Arias was entrusted with drafting and submitting filings in accordance with our tax laws. Instead, she violated those laws by spearheading a scheme to defraud our government out of over $10 million in tax revenue. In addition to paying full restitution and a significant fine, she will spend 8 years in prison for her criminal conduct.”
“Identifying financial crimes that threaten the health of our national economy andexposing criminals who attempt to steal from law-abiding taxpayers will continue to be a major investigative priority for Homeland Security Investigations," said Special Agent in Charge of HSI New Orleans Raymond R. Parmer Jr. "This case further illustrates the excellent working relationship between HSI and its federal, state and local partners to identify, investigate and referthese criminals for prosecution.”
“Jacqueline Arias cast a wide net of fraud, and, in return, captured a lengthy prison sentence,” said Gabriel L. Grchan, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Today's announcement is the result of collaborative work between local, state and federal law enforcement. Dismantling such a large network required the manpower of many agencies, and I would like to express my gratitude to our law enforcement partners who supported the investigation and prosecution of this very significant case.”
The case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, which oversees U.S. Homeland Security Investigations; IRS-Criminal Investigation; the U.S. Secret Service; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, in partnership with the St. Tammany Parish and Jefferson Parish Sheriffs’ Departments. The case was prosecuted by Department of Justice, Tax Division Trial Attorney Hayden Brockett and Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
LaRose Man Pleads Guilty to Misuse of a Coast Guard LicenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that STEVEN BOURG, 51, of LaRose, Louisiana, pled guilty today to misuse of a federal license.
According to court documents, on or about October 10, 2012, the Coast Guard received information from Daigle Towing in Belle Chase, Louisiana, that BOURG had been hired by Daigle Towing to captain the uninspected towing vessel (UTV) Mason Ray but that BOURG had been found asleep while on watch. The Coast Guard checked the Marine Information for Safety and Law Enforcement database and found that since 2007 when he had voluntarily surrendered the license, BOURG had not possessed a merchant mariner license as issued by the Coast Guard and as required to captain a towing vessel.
The investigation revealed that BOURG submitted an altered merchant mariner license with his application to Daigle Towing. The license was in the name of BOURG, but listed the issuance date as January 2009 and the expiration date as January 2014. BOURG had not been issued a license nor had his license renewed in January 2009. As a result of BOURG’s submission of the altered license, he had been employed by Daigle Towing from September 19, 2012, until September 25, 2012. Prior to being employed by Daigle Towing, BOURG had used the altered license to apply and get employment with Triple C Towing, LLC, in Houma, Louisiana. BOURG applied to Triple C Towing on or about July 19, 2011, and ended his employment on or about February 1, 2012.
U.S. District Court Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt scheduled sentencing for February 4, 2015. BOURG faces a maximum of five years imprisonment and/or a maximum fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Coast Guard Investigative Service’s work on this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield prosecuted the case.
Justice Department’s Civil Rights Lawsuit Leads to Improved Conditions at Terrebonne Parish Juvenile Detention CenterRead the Press Release
Today, the Justice Department announced that its civil rights lawsuit involving the Terrebonne Parish Juvenile Detention Center in Houma, Louisiana, has resulted in improved conditions for the youth confined in the facility, and it asked the federal court to dismiss the case. Reforms Terrebonne Parish undertook over the past three years resulted in increased protections to prevent sexual abuse of youth by staff; reduce the use of isolation, inappropriate use of force and restraints by staff; to reduce physical abuse of youth by other youth; and to reduce suicide and other self-harming behavior.
In 2011, the department notified Terrebonne Parish officials that conditions at the detention center violated the constitutional rights of confined youth. Later that year, the department and Terrebonne Parish officials reached a settlement agreement to implement 43 specific substantive remedial measures to reform conditions at the facility. The parties appointed an independent monitor who closely monitored reform efforts and provided technical assistance to facility officials.
Although the settlement agreement pre-dated the Attorney General’s finalization of the National Standards to Prevent, Detect, and Respond to Prison Rape (PREA Standards), the required remedial measures incorporated several provisions eventually set forth in those Standards. For example, Terrebonne Parish began complying with PREA’s minimum staffing ratio requirements, ensuring that unannounced supervisory rounds were periodically conducted, established a zero-tolerance policy for sexual abuse, conducted post-incident reviews, ensured that all allegations of abuse were promptly investigated and referred to appropriate external investigative agencies, ensured that staff found to be violating agency policies were subject to formal discipline and trained all staff on sexual abuse identification and prevention practices.
In addition to remedial measures designed to eliminate sexual abuse of youth within the facility, the settlement also required several remedial measures to increase protections against suicide and other self-harming behavior, including a reduction in the facility’s over-reliance on isolation. For example, the settlement prohibited the routine use of isolation rooms for youth on suicide precautions, prohibited the use of isolation for all youth except where youth pose an imminent threat to themselves or others (or in rare cases where less severe disciplinary measures have proven ineffective), prohibited the use of any disciplinary isolation longer than 72 hours except in extraordinary circumstances and ensured that any use of isolation be accompanied by strict safeguards such as frequent youth welfare checks and frequent visits by clinicians. During the remedial action period, the facility proactively implemented an effective incentive-based behavior management program that rewarded youth for positive and pro-social behavior. In addition, the facility implemented and trained staff on Safe Crisis Management – a program for preventing and responding to disruptive behavior by youth. Implementation of these programs substantially reduced the frequency of serious incidents at the facility, and enabled facility-leadership to eliminate the use of sanctioned disciplinary isolation – an outcome that exceeded settlement agreement requirements.
In the spring of 2014, the monitor issued her fifth compliance report indicating that Terrebonne Parish had achieved substantial compliance with all required remedial measures in the settlement agreement. The department concurs with the monitor’s assessment.
During the course of the department’s investigation, including the enforcement period, Terrebonne Parish officials and the facility director have remained highly cooperative and steadfast in their commitment to improving conditions of confinement in the facility.
“We commend Terrebonne Parish for its commitment to protecting youth held in custody,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta for the Civil Rights Division. “These improvements will help to ensure the safety and security of all youth in the facility in a sustainable manner.”
“Rehabilitation of the district’s youth is the principal goal of juvenile justice and we are pleased that Terrebonne Parish has been diligent in remedying its facility,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “These changes will help foster an environment where our at-risk youth can exit the juvenile justice system ready to positively contribute to their communities.”
The department initiated this investigation under the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, which gives the department authority to seek a remedy for a pattern or practice of conduct that violates the constitutional or federal statutory rights of youth in juvenile justice institutions. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt.
Houma Man is Convicted of Drug Distribution ChargeRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that today a federal jury convicted, DONALD RICHARDSON, age 36, of Houma, Louisiana, of distribution of a quantity of cocaine base (“crack”).
RICHARDSON was charged in a two-count indictment, alleging that on March 17, 2011, and March 23, 2011, RICHARDSON distributed a quantity of crack. After a two-day trial before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance, a jury returned a guilty verdict against RICHARDSON for the March 23, 2011 distribution charge.
RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. Judge Vance set sentencing for March 4, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Terrebonne Parish Department’s Narcotics Unit in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre’ Jones and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian C. Ebarb were in charge of the prosecution.
Hong Kong Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Smuggle Turtles out of the United States and to Violation of the Lacey ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that HON KIT LAU, age 34, from Hong Kong, pled guilty today to a one-count superseding Bill of Information charging him with conspiring to smuggle turtles out of the United States and to violate the Lacey Act.
According to the superseding Bill of Information, LAU was part of a group of individuals involved in capturing the threatened species of North American Wood turtles from the wild, 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 scheduled sentencing for February 25, 2015. LAU faces a maximum term of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
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 is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-Entry of a Removed AlienRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MELVIN JOSUE AVELAR-CASTRO (“AVELAR”), age 34, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to one-count of illegal re-entry of a removed alien.
According to court documents, AVELAR was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) agents at a residence in Metairie, Louisiana. The arrest followed an investigation by ICE agents which determined that AVELAR was illegally present in the United States. AVELAR had been convicted of re-entry of a removed alien on two previous occasions.
AVELAR faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years on the illegal re-entry charge, a fine of $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman scheduled sentencing on March 18, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SANTOS GAVARRETE-NATAREN, 36, a native of Honduras, pled guilty today to knowingly delivering a firearm to a common carrier without written notice.
According to court documents, on or about December 2, 2013, Dip Shipping, a common carrier based in Kenner, Louisiana, received a plastic container for international shipment at its West Bank drop-off location. The container was purportedly from Alfredo Barahona, addressed to Yessenia Martinez in Yoro, Honduras. The shipping label noted that the shipment contained kitchen items and shoes.
While scanning packages with a company owned X-ray machine, a Dip Shipping employee observed the image of two firearms inside the container. On December 9, 2013, HSI Special Agents were notified of the discovery and responded to Dip Shipping. Upon inspecting the container, the agents discovered that it contained a Smith & Wesson model 642, .38 revolver (SN: CJJ4544) and a Lorcin model L380, .380 semi-automatic handgun (SN: 125407).
HSI agents determined that GAVARRETE shipped the package. GAVARRETE admitted that he did not apply for an export license to ship the firearms. Further, he did not advise Dip Shipping that the package contained firearms.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt scheduled sentencing for February 4, 2015. GAVARRETTE faces a maximum of 5 years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Agents investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield is in charge of prosecuting this case.
Honduran Man Pleads Guilty to Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney A. Kenneth Polite announced that ELVIS CANO-MORALES, age 33, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to court documents, CANO-MORALES was found in the United States on August 1, 2014, after having been previously removed from the United States on June 10, 2011.
CANO-MORALES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, as well as a fine of $250,000. U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval set sentencing for January 28, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Two Charged in Bill of Information for Unlawful Employment of AliensRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOHNNIE SANTANGELO, III, age 29, of Tangipahoa Parish, and OBER FARFAN BRAVO, age 34, an undocumented alien living in Tangipahoa Parish, were charged yesterday in a one-count bill of information for unlawfully employing aliens.
According to the bill of information, SANTANGELO and BRAVO knowingly and unlawfully engage in a pattern and practice of hiring aliens for employment, knowing that said aliens were unauthorized aliens to work in the United States.
If convicted, SANTANGELO and BRAVO face a maximum term of six months incarceration and/or a fine of $3,000 for each unauthorized alien 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 defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Bill of Information )
3 Men Pled Guilty to Operating Heroin Conspiracy in New Orleans EastRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MICHAEL DAVID SORINA, JR., age 35, resident of Slidell, Louisiana, LARRY HARDY, age 48, resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, and TERRELL CARNEY, age 33, resident of New Orleans, pled guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin.
On July 25, 2014, SORINA, HARDY, and CARNEY were three of 12 defendants charged in a 23-count indictment. According to court documents, this investigation targeted a heroin trafficking organization operating in New Orleans East. This organization was responsible for distributing at least 15 kilograms of heroin in New Orleans. Agents seized approximately $1,200,000 in assets (a combination of vehicles, currency, jewelry and real property) from members of this drug trafficking organization that were acquired with proceeds made from the sale of heroin.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier will sentence SORINA, HARDY, and CARNEY on February 19, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney J. Collin Sims is in charge of the prosecution.
Two Charged in Superseding Bill of Information for Violations of the Lacey ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that HON KIT LAU, age 34, from Hong Kong, and LAWRENCE TREIGLE, age 44, from Covington, Louisiana, were charged today in a one-count superseding bill of information with conspiring to smuggle a threatened species of turtles out of the United States and in violation of the Lacey Act.
According to the superseding bill of information, LAU and TREIGLE were 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.
If convicted, LAU and TREIGLE, face a maximum term of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the superseding bill of information 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 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 is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Superseding Bill of Information )
New Orleans Man, Corey D. Wilson, Sentenced to 10 Years in Heroin Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that COREY D. WILSON, age 37, of New Orleans, was sentenced today for his role in a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced WILSON to 124 months imprisonment, 8 years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, a High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area group (“HIDTA group”) consisting of DEA in New Orleans and Houston, NOPD and ATF agents, the West Bank Major Crimes Task Force, the Louisiana State Police, and the United States Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. This was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sharan Lieberman and Collin Sims are in charge of the prosecution.
Jorge Gutierrez-sanchez Sentenced for Illegal Use of Social Security NumbersRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JORGE GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ, a/k/a Frank Farias, a/k/a Eusebio Ramirez, Jr., a/k/a Erick S. Couvertier-Rivera, age 29, a Mexican citizen, was sentenced today for falsely representing two different social security numbers in order to obtain training for employment.
U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ to six months imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release.
According to court documents, on May 6, 2014, GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ was hired by Insulations Inc., a company located in Harahan, Louisiana, using the name Erick Steven Couvertier-Rivera, with the Social Security number XXX-XX-6526. GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ completed the I-9 form claiming U.S. citizenship, as well as W-4 form, using a driver’s license with his own photo in Couvertier-Rivera’s name and Social Security number.
On May 7, 2014, prior to Insulations Inc. sending GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ to work at Mississippi Power Company, he attended training at Gulf Coast Safety Council (“GCSC”), located in St. Charles Parish in the Eastern District of Louisiana. In order to get into GCSC’s training, GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ presented that same driver’s license and Social Security number in Couvertier-Rivera’s name.
This was not the first time GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ had attended a GCSC training. On January 31, 2014, GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ went to employment training at GCSC and presented GCSC personnel with a driver’s license with his photo, but in the name Frank Farias and gave GCSC a Social Security card in Frank Farias’s name with the number XXX-XX-7281. The same day GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ was posing as Frank Farias, another individual went to GCSC for employment training and presented himself as Eusebio Ramirez, Jr. with a Social Security card with the number XXX-XX-4930 in the name of Eusebio Ramirez, Jr. and a driver’s license in the name of Eusebio Ramirez, Jr., but with GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ’s picture on it. GUTIERREZ-SANCHEZ had previously used the identity of Eusebio Ramirez, Jr., including the driver’s license and social security card presented to GCSC on January 31, 2014, to gain employment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield prosecuted the case.
Hammond Man, Meredith Corbin, Sentenced for Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MEREDITH CORBIN, age 33, of Hammond, Louisiana, was sentenced today, having previously pled guilty to possession of cocaine hydrochloride with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm during and in relation to that drug-trafficking crime.
U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon sentenced CORBIN to 12 months and 1 day for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and 60 months for possessing a firearm in relation to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, with sentences to run consecutively for a total of 72-month term of imprisonment. Additionally, CORBIN was sentenced to serve 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment and ordered to pay a $200 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Hammond Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. McMahon is in charge of the prosecution.
Destrehan Businesswoman, Sandy Isaac-holden, Sentenced for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SANDY ISAAC-HOLDEN, age 53, of Destrehan, Louisiana, was sentenced today for one count of tax evasion.
United States District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced ISAAC-HOLDEN to serve 48 months of probation and was ordered her to pay $384,712.27 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service for taxes due and owing.
According to court documents, ISAAC-HOLDEN received unreported income for tax year 2010. The income was received from a contract that existed between two companies, Company “A” and Company “B.” Company “A” manufactures and markets retail products and Company “B” has a maintenance service contract with Company “A.” ISAAC-HOLDEN had been employed as the on-site manager for by Company “B.” Her job responsibilities included managing the Company “B” staff, interacting with Company “A” managers, and retaining subcontractors for work that was outside the scope of work set forth in the contract between Companies “A” and “B.”
ISAAC-HOLDEN received invoices from subcontractors and paid subcontractors (“G & M”) directly. She often awarded this out-of-scope work to G&M Services, LLC. She concealed the fact that she was actually the sole owner and operator of G&M, which sometimes provided these outside the scope of work services such as grass cutting, painting, and cleaning to Company “A.” She hid her interest in G&M by listing her sister’s post office box, as the address for G&M on all of the invoices to Company “B.” ISAAC-HOLDEN also stated to the owners of Company “B” that G&M was owned and operated by “Mr. G” and operated by a man named “Robert.” She also submitted false Forms W-9 (request for taxpayer identification number and certification) in order to conceal from the IRS that she was the person actually earning the income. These forms were submitted in 2009 and 2010 and contained the forged signature of another person.
On April 24, 2011, ISAAC-HOLDEN signed, and placed into the mail for filing with the Internal Revenue Service, a false 2010 Form 1040 tax return which stated that her income for the 2010 calendar year was the sum of $57,466, and that she was owed a refund in the sum of $4,564. However, she knew that her taxable income for the 2010 calendar year was the sum of $455,230. She therefore owed income tax in the amount of $163,083.66, rather than a refund.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jon Maestri and Andre Lagarde are in charge of this prosecution.
Houma Man, Channing Christopher Miller, Sentenced to 10 Years on Federal Drug ViolationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CHANNING CHRISTOPHER MILLER, age 36, of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to a one-count indictment for possession with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride.
U.S. District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced MILLER to 120 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
According to court documents, on or about November 14, 2013, law enforcement officers established surveillance of the MEGABUS terminal on Bienville Street in New Orleans in order to conduct routine drug interdiction operations at the terminal. At approximately 5:45 p.m., officers observed MILLER exit the MEGABUS and retrieve a black duffel bag from the luggage area. Officers approached MILLER and smelled the aroma of marijuana coming from MILLER’s person. After telling officers that he was travelling from Houston, Texas, MILLER gave verbal consent to the officers to search his back pack and the black duffel bag. Immediately thereafter, officers seized 3½ bricks of powder cocaine from the back pack and a plastic bag containing marijuana and an off-white cutting agent. Officers then arrested MILLER. Subsequent laboratory analysis revealed a net weight of 4,469 grams of cocaine hydrochloride.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
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California Man, Zheng B. Ni, Pleads Guilty to Credit Card Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. announced that yesterday, ZHENG B. NI, age 26, a resident of Los Angeles, California, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to four counts of access device fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.
According to the court documents, on or about September 3, 2012, NI fraudulently used credit cards belonging to three individuals without their consent or authorization. In one day, NI made or attempted to make purchases totaling over $67,000 at various stores in the Greater New Orleans area.
NI faces a sentence of up to 10 years’ imprisonment on each count of access device fraud, followed by a mandatory minimum of 2 years’ imprisonment for the aggravated identity offense, to run consecutive to any term of imprisonment he receives on the access device fraud charges. In addition, NI will be ordered to pay restitution for the amounts charged to the credit cards. His sentence is scheduled for September 3, 2014.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and prosecuted by Emily K. Greenfield.
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Arizona Man, Vittorio Francesco Gonzalez-castillo, Pleads Guilty for Conspiracy to Produce Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that VITTORIO FRANCESCO GONZALEZ-CASTILLO, age 26, a resident of Tucson, Arizona, pled guilty today in the District of Arizona after being indicted in the Eastern District of Louisiana for Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography. In addition, GONZALEZ-CASTILLO was previously indicted in the District of Arizona for Distribution, Possession, and Knowing Access of Child Pornography.
GONZALEZ-CASTILLO was permitted to plead guilty in federal court in Arizona to the Louisiana charges pursuant to Rule 20 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. GONZALEZ-CASTILLO also pled guilty to distributing child pornography arising from the Arizona indictment.
As a result of a nationwide child exploitation investigation, special agents with the New Orleans Office of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) determined that GONZALEZ-CASTILLO was responsible for producing videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children. According to court documents, beginning in 2012, and continuing until January 2013, GONZALEZ-CASTILLO conspired with Jonathan Johnson, the administrator of a multi-national child pornography website, to create and post videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children on the Internet.
Conspiracy to produce child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 30 years. Similarly, distribution of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years. However, GONZALEZ-CASTILLO has agreed to serve a total of 30 years imprisonment pursuant to his plea on both counts. GONZALEZ-CASTILLO will have to register as a sex offender and will be placed on supervised release for a term of not less than 5 years and up to life once released from prison.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 26, 2015 before a U.S. District Court Judge in Tucson, Arizona.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Fraud Section Chief, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is in charge of this prosecution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carin C. Duryee of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona handled the plea proceeding in Tucson, Arizona.
Undocumented Alien from Honduras, Selvin Irias-murillo, Charged with Illegal Reentry into the United States After Four Previous DeportationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SELVIN IRIAS-MURILLO, age 44, from Honduras, was charged today in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry into the United States after having been previously deported, in violation of 8 U.S.C. '1326(a).
According to the indictment, IRIAS-MURILLO was found by Immigrations and Customs Enforcement agents in the Eastern District of Louisiana after records showed he had been deported on four prior occasions from the United States to Honduras.
If convicted, IRIAS-MURILLO 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 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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
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