Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Two Men Indicted by Grand Jury for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that HERBERT COOPER, age 41, and RICHARD WILLIAMS, age 38, both residents of New Orleans, Louisiana, were charged today in a three-count indictment for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act. According to the indictment, on October 24, 2014, COOPER and WILLIAMS conspired to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute over 28 grams of crack cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846. WILLIAMS was also charged with distributing at least 28 grams of cocaine base, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(B). Additionally, COOPER was charged with possessing with the intent to distribute at least 28 grams of cocaine base, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
If convicted, COOPER and WILLIAMS each face a maximum term of 40 years imprisonment as to each count, a fine of up to $5,000,000, a period of four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a special assessment of $100.00.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the New Orleans Polite Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Honduran Man, Ricky Guiti, Charged with Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RICKY GUITI, age 29, a native of Honduras, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for reentering the United States without permission, after previously having been deported.
According to court documents, GUITI was previously removed from the United States on October 27, 2011. GUITI was found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on October 5, 2014, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.
If convicted, GUITI faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, as well as a fine of $250,000.
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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Federal Jury Convicts Allen GangRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that GIE PRESTON, age 39, BURNELL ALLEN, age 35, and SONNY ALLEN, age 31, all residents of New Orleans, Louisiana, were convicted late yesterday after a 4-day jury trial. The jury returned a verdict of guilty on a superseding indictment charging all defendants with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base “crack.” The jury also found SONNY ALLEN guilty of distributing a quantity of cocaine base “crack” on four occasions. In addition, GIE PRESTON was found guilty of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, being a convicted felon in possession of firearms, and conspiring to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. BURNELL ALLEN and SONNY ALLEN were found not guilty of conspiring to possess a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and GIE PRESTON was found not guilty of another gun crime.
Evidence was presented at trial that these defendants are related and grew up in and around the former Melpomene Housing Development, engaged in high volume street level drug dealing over the course of several years. The majority of this activity took place near an older relative’s home located at 1218 Simon Bolivar Avenue. Further evidence presented showed that the defendants routinely carried firearms to protect themselves while engaged in distributing illegal narcotics.
U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. scheduled sentencing for April 8, 2015. GIE PRESTON faces 15 years to life; BURNELL ALLEN faces a mandatory life sentence; and SONNY ALLEN faces 20 years to life.
"The Allen Gang sold crack cocaine 'every day, all day' in the Guste high rises, and used guns to protect that business," U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite said in a statement. "These guilty verdicts ensure that these men spend decades in jail for terrorizing their community."
ATF Special Agent in Charge Phillip Durham stated, “For decades, the criminal enterprise known as the Allen family has preyed upon the local community by using firearms to commit violent crimes and distributing large quantities of illegal drugs. Unquestionably, these guilty verdicts are a resounding victory for the citizens of New Orleans and highlight the unyielding efforts of ATF and the Multi-Agency Gang Unit in combating these violent crimes.”
“This verdict is proof that the rules of the game have changed for good,” said NOPD Superintendent Michael Harrison. “Through the Multi-Agency Gang Unit, local, state and federal law enforcement agencies are working together every day to take dangerous individuals off the streets. We will not rest until every neighborhood in New Orleans is a safe neighborhood.”
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as part of the metro area’s Multi-Agency Gang Unit (MAG). 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.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), and the New Orleans Police Department in investigation this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Toomey and Andre Lagarde were in charge of prosecuting this matter.
New Orleanian, Lionel Thomas, Indicted for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LIONEL THOMAS, age 30, a resident of New Orleans, was charged today in a one count indictment for violations of the federal controlled substances act.
According to the indictment, THOMAS possessed with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Scheduled I drug controlled substance.
If convicted, THOMAS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years to life, a fine of $10,000,000 and five 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 Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of this prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Honduran Man, Jason Guzman-urquia, Charged with Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JASON GUZMAN-URQUIA, age 36, a native of Honduras, was indicted today by a federal grand jury for reentering the United States without permission, after previously having been deported.
According to court documents, on August 2, 2007, GUZMAN-URQUIA was previously removed from the United States. On October 22, 2014, GUZMAN-URQUIA was found in the Eastern District of Louisiana and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.
If convicted, GUZMAN-URQUIA faces a maximum term of two years imprisonment, as well as a fine of $250,000.
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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
New Orleans Police Officer, Tracie Medus, Suspended After Being Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TRACIE MEDUS, age 39, a New Orleans Police Department police officer, was charged yesterday with theft of government funds. According to the New Orleans Police Department, MEDUS has been placed on unpaid emergency suspension pending the outcome of this case.
According to the Bill of Information, from in or about July 2009 to in or about March 2011, MEDUS stole $158,700 from the Louisiana Road Home’s Small Rental Property Program. MEDUS obtained the funds in the form of an award funded by the Department of Housing and Urban Development.
If convicted, MEDUS faces up to ten years incarceration and a fine of up to twice the theft amount.
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 Housing and Urban Development - Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter and thanked the New Orleans Police Department’s Public Integrity Bureau and the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division for their assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Bill of Information )
Multiple Convicted Felon, Melvin James, Jr., Sentenced to 16 ½ Years in Prison for Possession of Heroin and FirearmsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MELVIN JAMES, JR., a 43-year old resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today for possession with intent to distribute 98 grams of heroin and being a convicted felon-in-possession of four firearms.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced JAMES to 198 months incarceration for possession with intent to distribute 98 grams of heroin and 120 months incarceration for being a felon-in-possession of a firearm, to be served concurrently. Following his term of imprisonment, JAMES will be on supervised release for a term of 3 years.
According to the indictment, JAMES was arrested following an attempt to sell heroin in Slidell, Louisiana. A search of his New Orleans residence uncovered 98 grams of heroin, digital scales, products used to “cut” the heroin prior to distribution, over $3,000 in U.S. currency, marijuana, and other tools of the narcotics trafficking trade including four firearms of various makes and calibers.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and thanked the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and the New Orleans Police Department for providing assistance in investigating this matter. Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian Ebarb is in charge of the prosecution.Moving Company Owner, Dunwoodie Mcduffie, Pleads Guilty to Operating an Interstate Moving Business in Violation of Federal RegulationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DUNWOODIE MCDUFFIE, 47. a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, and the owner of a Metairie moving company, plea guilty today to eight counts of conducting interstate household goods moves without the proper authority of the Department of Transportation.
According to the Bill of Information, in 2007, MCDUFFIE applied for authorization to conduct interstate moves with his company, Mr. Move, but never followed through with the various requirements for maintain authority to conduct interstate moves. MCDUFFIE nonetheless continued to operate his interstate moving business, knowing that he lacked the proper authority to do so. Each of the eight charges represents a different move conducted by MCDUFFIE’s business in 2013.
MCDUFFIE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of one year on each count and a fine of up to $100,000 on each count, for a total potential exposure of eight years and $800,000. MCDUFFIE may also be sentenced to up to a year of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Transportation, Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Factual Basis )
Mexican Man, Galdino Martinez-carrillo, Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-entryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that GALDINO MARTINEZ-CARRILLO, age 38, a citizen of Mexico, pled guilty today to a one-count indictment for illegal re-entry of a removed alien.
According to the court documents, on August 1, 2014, MARTINEZ-CARRILLO was found in the United States after having been deported previously on October 25, 2012.
MARTINEZ-CARRILLO 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 Martin L.C. Feldman set sentencing for March 4, 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.
Honduran Man, Uris Ordonez-mendoza, Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-entryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Polite announced that URIS ORDONEZ-MENDOZA, age 27, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count indictment for illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to court records, URIS ORDONEZ-MENDOZA was found in the United States on September 20, 2014, after having been previously deported.
ORDONEZ-MENDOZA 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 Helen G. Berrigan set sentencing for February 11, 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 Emily K. Greenfield is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Factual Basis )
California Man, Aung Gaw, Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison for Crimes Involving the Sexual Victimization of ChildrenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that AUNG GAW, a/k/a Michael Gaw, age 26, of Fremont, California, was sentenced today for Conspiracy to Produce Child Pornography. According to court documents, beginning in December 2012, and continuing until May 2013, GAW 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. On November 5, 2013, federal agents executed a federal search warrant at GAW’s Fremont, California residence. GAW has been in custody since his arrest on November 5, 2013.
Chief U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced GAW to 157 months imprisonment, to be followed by a term of supervised release of 10 years. In addition, GAW will be required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.
“Gaw and his co-conspirators victimized over 150 young people as part of their scheme to traffic child pornography,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “Today’s sentence of 13 years underscores our commitment to bringing justice to anyone who engages in this despicable criminal conduct.”
“Individuals who conspire to produce child pornography are directly responsible for what is, in plain language, the rape of children. Production and distribution of child pornography steals the innocence of children and destroys lives,” said HSI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Raymond R. Parmer Jr. "Operation Roundtable serves as a stark warning that HSI special agents are actively working to identity and disrupt the trade of these illegal images, and also to identify and seek prosecution of the criminals who produce and possess them.”
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 U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for investigating this matter. Fraud Section Chief and Project Safe Childhood Coordinator, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is in charge of the prosecution.
Amite Woman, Angela Lemoine, Charged with Theft of Bank FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ANGELA LEMOINE, 43, of Amite, Louisiana, was charged in a Bill of Information today with one count of theft of funds.
According to the Bill of Information, from approximately November 2005 until approximately March 1, 2013, LEMOINE worked as a manager at the Kentwood branch of First NBC Bank. LEMOINE admitted to stealing $14,000 by forging a customer’s signature on a maturing Certificate of Deposit (CD). Specifically, on or about August 6, 2012, LEMOINE withdrew $14,000 from a customer’s CD and forged the customer’s signature. LEMOINE then had a teller advance her the $14,000 in cash which she kept in her possession. On March 1, 2013, LEMOINE signed a hand written confession acknowledging that she stole $14,000. LEMOINE has made full restitution to the bank.
If convicted, LEMOINE faces a possible maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release.
The U. S. Attorney’s Office 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Bill of Information )
U.s. Attorney Designates District Officer to Handle Voting Rights Complaints for November 4th ElectionsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced today that Assistant U.S. Attorney Irene Gonzàlez will lead the efforts of her Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming general elections on November 4, 2014. AUSA Gonzàlez has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Eastern District of Louisiana. In that capacity she is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
U.S. Attorney Polite said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud. The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring election fraud and discrimination at the polls, and combating these violations whenever and wherever they occur. The Department’s long-standing Election Day Program furthers these goals, and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the integrity of the election process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible election fraud and voting rights violations while the polls are open on Election Day.
Federal law protects against such crimes as intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters and provides that they can vote free from acts that intimidate or harass them. For example, actions of persons designed to interrupt or intimidate voters at polling places by questioning or challenging them, or by photographing or videotaping them, under the pretext that these are actions to uncover illegal voting may violate federal voting rights law. Further, federal law protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice.
The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 4, 2014, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities United States Attorney Polite stated that AUSA Irene Gonzàlez will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone numbers: (504) 680-3000 and (504) 680-3077.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on Election Day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (504) 816-3000.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington by phone at (800) 253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to [email protected] or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.
U.S. Attorney Polite said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate. It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available immediately to my Office, the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division.”
Washington Parish School Board Required to Institute Training and Standard Operating Procedures for Asbestos Handling After Charges It Violated Clean Air ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced today that his Office has agreed to defer prosecution on the bill of information it filed against the WASHINGTON PARISH SCHOOL BOARD (“SCHOOL BOARD”) charging it with a felony violation of the Clean Air Act for failing to notify the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality of the 2011 demolition of the Old Pine High School which contained regulated asbestos containing material.
According to court documents, in 2011, due to persistent vandalism and an inability to sell the vacant former Pine High School, located at 27164 Highway 62 in Franklinton, Louisiana, the SCHOOL BOARD decided to demolish the school and clear the site. Despite the fact that the SCHOOL BOARD had an asbestos management plan for the former Pine High School which showed that at the time of the last inspection in 2007 there was greater than 31,000 square feet of floor tiles suspected of containing asbestos material, the SCHOOL BOARD failed to make any notification or report to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality that it intended to demolish the school in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 7413(c)(2)(B) and Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 61.145(b).
The School Board has since remediated the site and has begun steps to comply with a host of compliance requirements in the deferred prosecution agreement with the government, including training and instituting standard operating procedures for future handling of confirmed and suspected asbestos containing material wherever found during the maintenance of the SCHOOL BOARD’s remaining facilities as well as during construction and demolition of the SCHOOL BOARD’s properties. This includes a requirement that any contract for construction, renovation, remediation, demolition, or project that implicates environmental regulations or laws shall be let in accordance with Louisiana law and any solicitations for bid or proposal shall set forth specifically all environmental concerns and obligations of the contractor and the SCHOOL BOARD. In 2011, the demolition of the former Pine High School had not been let for public bid, but was privately negotiated and agreed to in a purchase order.
The SCHOOL BOARD will be under the deferred prosecution agreement for two years. If the SCHOOL BOARD is in full compliance with all of its obligations under the agreement and has not committed any negligent or knowing violations of state or federal criminal law at the end of the two years, the United States Attorney’s Office will request that the district court dismiss, with prejudice, the bill of information. This matter is currently pending before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Environmental Protection Agency-CID and the investigators with the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality-CID in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Agreement )
Rufus Johnson and 3 Others Indicted for Operating Fraudulent Bail Bonds Scheme in Orleans ParishRead the Press Release
U. S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RUFUS JOHNSON, age 65, JAMES JOHNSON, age 36, PERRY BECNEL, age 38, and JOSEPHINE SPELLMAN, age 54, all of New Orleans, were indicted today by a federal grand jury for charges of conspiracy to commit honest services fraud, mail fraud, and wire fraud, and conspiracy to obstruct justice. The indictment also charges making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation and a federal grand jury, as well as conspiracy to use interstate transportation in aid of a racketeering enterprise and conspiracy to commit unauthorized access to a protected computer. The defendants are charged as follows:
COUNT
CHARGE
DEFENDANT
RANGE OF PUNISHMENT
1
Conspiracy to Commit Honest Services Fraud, Mail Fraud, Wire Fraud-18 USC 1341, 1343, 1349
All Defendants
NMT 20 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years Sup. Rel.
2
Conspiracy to Commit Use of an Interstate Facility in Aid of Racketeering Activity-18 USC 371
R. Johnson, Becnel
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
3
Conspiracy to Commit Unauthorized Access to a Protected Computer-18 USC 371
R. Johnson, Becnel
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
4
Conspiracy to Obstruct Justice-18 USC 1512(k)
All Defendants
NMT 20 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years Sup. Rel.
5
False Statements-18 USC 1001
R. Johnson
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
6
False Statements-18 USC 1001
R. Johnson
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
7
False Statements-18 USC 1001
R. Johnson
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
8
False Statements-18 USC 1001
J. Johnson
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
9
False Statements-18 USC 1001
J. Spellman
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
10
False Declarations before a Grand Jury-18 USC 1623
J. Johnson
NMT 5 Years, NMT 250,000 Fine, NMT 3 Years, Sup. Release
According to the indictment, RUFUS JOHNSON, JAMES JOHNSON, BECNEL, and SPELLMAN conspired to profit by releasing Orleans Parish Prison inmates through various means, including by bribing public employees of the Clerk of Court for Criminal District Court and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office to release inmates on their own recognizance (“R.O.R.”) and to access and alter protected law enforcement databases; by approaching judges for R.O.R.s and bail reductions; and by acting as commercial bail bondsmen without a license through signing other bondsmen’s names and splitting premiums. The indictment also contains allegations that these defendants attempted to obstruct justice and to deny the Federal Bureau of Investigation relevant information. RUFUS JOHNSON, JAMES JOHNSON, and JOSEPHINE SPELLMAN are charged with making false statements to the FBI and the grand jury investigating this matter. The indictment further alleges that JAMES JOHNSON abused his parole power as an elected Member of the Orleans Parish Democratic Executive Committee, lied before a federal grand jury, and schemed to disguise conflicts of interest relating to his legal representation of defendants who had been bonded out of jail by his bonding business.
JAMES JOHNSON is an attorney and member of the Louisiana Bar.
“Today’s indictment shows our continued commitment to rooting out local corruption and fraud,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite., “and it also exposes some of the vulnerabilities in our local criminal justice system that can be exploited by the unscrupulous. The integrity of our local institutions depends upon the integrity of our public employees and elected officials.”
U. S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilty of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and would like to acknowledge 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.
(Download Indictment )
Illegal Aliens Indicted for Violations of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ROBERTO HERRERA-VILLAGOMEZ, age 23, and JUAN MANUEL HERRERA-VILLAGOMEZ, age 32, both citizens of Mexico, were each charged today in two-count indictment with violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.
According to the indictment, on or about October 15, 2014, ROBERTO HERRERA-VILLAGOMEZ and JUAN MANUEL HERRERA-VILLAGOMEZ, both illegal aliens, were found in possession of loaded firearms. Both defendants were found while executing a search warrant in an ongoing investigation into the harboring of illegal aliens at a mushroom farm in Tangipahoa Parish.
If convicted, ROBERTO HERRERA-VILLAGOMEZ and JUAN MANUEL HERRERA-VILLAGOMEZ, each face a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000 and up to 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 defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised work of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Illegal Alien, Juan Carlos Moscoso-cardenas, Indicted for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JUAN CARLOS MOSCOSO-CARDENAS, age 28, a citizen of Honduras, was charged today in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry by an alien previously removed.
According to the indictment, on or about October 15, 2014, LOPEZ-VELASQUEZ, an alien who had previously been removed from the United States, was found in the United States, within the Eastern District of Louisiana, without having obtained consent from the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reapply for admission to the United States.
If convicted, JUAN CARLOS MOSCOSO-CARDENAS, faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a fine of $ 250,000 and one year 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 Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) for investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Denham Springs Woman, Katrular Buchana Bell, Sentenced for Preparing and Filing False Income Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KATRULAR BUCHANA BELL, age 39, a resident of Denham Springs, and former tax preparer, was sentenced today for her role in preparing and electronically filing multiple false federal income tax returns.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced BELL to four (4) years probation. In addition to probation, Judge Milazzo ordered BELL to pay $41,747 in restitution to the IRS.
According to court documents, BELL willfully aided and assisted in the preparation and electronic filing with the IRS of multiple false income tax returns. BELL fraudulently manipulated the income amounts reported on the returns in order to obtain large refunds to which the filers were not entitled. In 2010, BELL provided the false information in a tax return about an individual’s income during tax year 2009, in that it falsely stated that the taxpayer earned Schedule C income of $13,400. This individual did not work as an employee during 2009, did not receive a Form W-2 reporting any wages that year, and did not provide a Form W-2 to defendant BELL at any time. Nonetheless, on or about January 20, 2010, defendant BELL prepared a 2009 income tax return on the individual’s behalf to which she attached a false Schedule C and fraudulently claimed a refund of $4,915. BELL collected a fee for the preparation of this return.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene Gonzalez is in charge of the prosecution.
Undocumented Alien, Elizar Gustavo Garcia-garcia, Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ELIZAR GUSTAVO GARCIA-GARCIA, age 30, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging him with illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to the Bill of Information, on or about August 4, 2014, GARCIA-GARCIA was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about March 11, 2014.
GARCIA-GARCIA 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 Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. set sentencing for January 28, 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 Gonzàlez is in charge of the prosecution.
Houston Man, Jesse R. Gonzales, Pleads Guilty to Transporting Methamphetamine and Heroin to New Orleans by "mega Bus"Read the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JESSE R. GONZALES, age 24, of Houston, Texas, pled guilty today to one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin.
According to court documents, Louisiana State Police troopers arrested GONZALES on November 15, 2013, while performing a narcotics interdiction detail of a “Mega Bus” travelling from Houston to New Orleans. Troopers approached GONZALES after he exited the Mega Bus at the stop near Bienville and N. Peters Streets in New Orleans. After GONZALES appeared evasive and nervous, the troopers asked for his consent to search his only bag, a red backpack. A Louisiana State Police K-9 sniffed the outside of the backpack and alerted to the presence of narcotics. Troopers subsequently searched the backpack and found approximately 417 grams of methamphetamine and approximately 25 grams of heroin.
GONZALES faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a $1,000,000.00 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. has scheduled sentencing for January 29, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter and thanked the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Payne is in charge of the prosecution.
Florida Man, Jaime Jauregui, Convicted of Gun Control and National Firearms Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JAIME JAUREGUI, age 36, of Orlando, Florida, was convicted today after a 2 ½ day jury trial. The jury returned a verdict of guilty as charged on both counts of the superseding indictment which charged JAUREGUI with conspiracy to violate the Gun Control and National Firearms Acts (18 U.S.C. § 371) and possession of unregistered firearms (26 U.S.C. § 5861(d)).
According to previously filed court documents, agents of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans received information in January 2012 indicating that JAUREGUI was interested in acquiring items listed on the United States Munitions List to be smuggled to end users in Mexico. On at least four occasions from January 2012 through March 21, 2013, JAUREGUI met with an undercover agent in St. Tammany Parish to negotiate the purchase of more than 100 fully automatic assault rifles, grenade launchers, grenades, and night vision goggles, all of which were destined for a Mexican drug trafficking cartel. JAUREGUI provided a cash deposit of approximately $46,000.00 during those meetings. JAIME JAUREGUI hired CARLOS CABRERA, FRANCISCO MALDONADO, AND RUBEN JAUREGUI to assist him with transporting the weapons to the final destinations. None of the men have federal firearms or export licenses. Defendants CABRERA, MALDONADO, and RUBEN JAUREGUI previously pled guilty.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey scheduled sentencing for January 27, 2015. The maximum penalties for Count 1 are five years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a $100 special assessment fee. The maximum penalties for Count 2 are ten years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and a $100 special assessment fee. Upon release from imprisonment, JAUREGUI is also subject to a three year term of supervised release.
“Jaime Jauregui and his co-conspirators planned to make a fortune by trafficking in illegal weapons intended to end up in the hands of Mexican drug cartels,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “Fortunately, the efforts of our law enforcement partners intervened before Jauregui’s criminality further jeopardized the safety of individuals here in the United States and in Mexico. After deliberating for less than one hour, the jury returned a guilty verdict that will ensure that Jauregui is held accountable for his dangerous actions.”
“Firearms regulations exist to ensure weapons crossing international borders are properly accounted for to preserve public safety and to keep them out of the hands of dangerous criminals,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI New Orleans Raymond R. Parmer Jr. “This case shows the significant consequences awaiting individuals who attempt to illegally smuggle weapons across U.S. borders.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), with assistance from the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the Louisiana State Police, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Ebarb are in charge of prosecuting this case.
Undocumented Aliens from Honduras Charged with Illegal Use of Social Security NumbersRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RONY RIVERA-GONZALES, age 23, FRANCISCO MUNOZ, age 26, and ESMIN ESPINOZA-ERAZO, age 24, all three from Honduras and most recently residing in Hammond, Louisiana, were separately charged today in one-count indictments with illegal use of a Social Security Number, in violation of 42 U.S.C. '408(a)(7)(B).
According to the indictments, RIVERA-GONZALES, MUNOZ, and ESPINOZA-ERAZO used Social Security Numbers that had not been assigned to them to obtain Louisiana Identification Cards.
If convicted, RIVERA-GONZALES, MUNOZ, and ESPINOZA-ERAZO each face a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of three years, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
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 United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment - Espinoza-Erazo )
(Download Indictment - Munoz )
(Download Indictment - Rivera-Gonzalez )
Undocumented Alien, Alvaro D. Campos, Charged with Illegal Reentry After Previously Being DeportedRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ALVARO D. CAMPOS, age 39, from Guatemala, 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, CAMPOS was found by United States Border Patrol agents in the Eastern District of Louisiana after records showed he had been previously deported from the United States to Guatemala on November 14, 2013.
If convicted, CAMPOS 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 Department of Homeland Security and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Department in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Veters is in charge of the prosecution.
Three Defendants Sentenced in Cocaine Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. announced that CHRISTOPHER JOSEPH, age 35, ANDREW BROWN a/k/a “Tank,” age 35, and MEGAN TONTH, age 25, all of New Orleans, were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Helen G. Berrigan, after having previously pled guilty on July 16, 2014, to a cocaine trafficking indictment.
JOSEPH had pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 235 months, a $20,000 fine, and a term of supervised release of 10 years.
BROWN and TONTH had pled guilty to distribution of 500 grams or more of cocaine. BROWN was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 97 months and a term of supervised release of 4 years. TONTH was sentenced to 3 years of probation.
The other three defendants charged in the case, CHARLES HERRON, ISAAC THOMPSON, and DOMINIQUE HANDY have pled guilty and are scheduled to be sentenced in December 2014.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann is in charge of the prosecution.
Tennessee Man, John Nutter, Sentenced for Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOHN NUTTER, age 32, resident of Knoxville, Tennessee, was sentenced today after having previously pleaded 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 NUTTER to a 38-month term of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release.
On February 6, 2014, NUTTER 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 pled guilty in this case, and NUTTER, concerning the distribution of powder cocaine that was later converted to crack and sold in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. NUTTER was arrested on July 3, 2013, in possession of approximately 400 grams of cocaine that he obtained from HAYNES.
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.
New Orleans Man, James Conrad, Jr., Charged with Stealing from Two Federal AgenciesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JAMES CONRAD, JR., age 49, a resident of New Orleans, was charged yesterday in a bill of information with theft of government funds.
According to the bill of information, from 1998 to 2013, CONRAD stole a total of $247,800 from the Social Security Administration and the Office of Personnel Management. If convicted, CONRAD faces up to ten years’ incarceration and a fine of up to twice the theft amount.
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 Social Security Administration - Office of Inspector General and the Office of Personnel Management - Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon is in charge of this prosecution.
(Download Bill of Information )
Kenner Man, Jose Rafael Hiraldo-suarez, Sentenced for Unlawful Transfer of Identification DocumentRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSE RAFAEL HIRALDO-SUAREZ, age 35, a resident of Kenner, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to a one-count indictment for the unlawful transfer of identification document.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced HIRALDO-SUAREZ to 2 years probation to include 3-months of home confinement.
According to court documents, on or about February 18, 2014, HIRALDO-SUAREZ transferred, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person, to wit, a Social Security card, with the intent to commit, or to aid or abet, or in connection with, unlawful activity that constitutes social security fraud.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agencies in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene Gonzàlez is in charge of the prosecution.
Indictment Unsealed in Interstate Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced the recent unsealing of an indictment charging SHAWN JACCUZZO, age 43, of Houma, Louisiana, ANGELA WEAVER, a/k/a “Angela Adams,” a/k/a “Angela Constant,” age 43, and CHANCE WEAVER, age 30, both residing in Cypress, California. According to the indictment, the defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. The indictment was unsealed on Thursday, October 16, 2014, after the arrest of ANGELA WEAVER and CHANCE WEAVER in Orange County, California, by United States Postal Inspectors.If found guilty as charged, the defendants could each face a mandatory minimum of 10 years of imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release.
U. S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Payne is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Former Executive Director of Noah, Stacey Jackson, Sentenced to Five Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that STACEY JACKSON, age 47, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today for her role in a conspiracy to steal federal funds and demand kickbacks from a program receiving federal funds.
U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon sentenced JACKSON to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. JACKSON was also ordered to pay over $424,000 in restitution to Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) and to individual victims, as well as a $50,000 fine.
According to court documents, JACKSON, the former Executive Director of New Orleans Affordable Homeownership (“NOAH”), a city agency and non-profit corporation, conspired with EARL MYERS, TRELLIS SMITH, and others to misuse and personally benefit from federal funds that NOAH had received, in violation of the law. HUD both before and after Hurricane Katrina, had provided grant money to the City of New Orleans to address blight within the city and to remediate homes damaged by the storm.
JACKSON, as the Executive Director of NOAH, was responsible for the day-to-day management of the agency and determined how much each contractor would be paid. JACKSON arranged to overpay certain contractors, such as MYERS and SMITH, instructing them to kickback portions of the overpayments to JACKSON’S benefit.
Specifically, court documents state that on numerous occasions, JACKSON instructed MYERS and SMITH to pay her kickbacks out of the NOAH money she paid them for work that could not be substantiated by invoices or work actually performed. For example, in or near October 2005, JACKSON, wrote a check from NOAH to Parish Dubuclet, a company operated by her friend, SMITH, for approximately $15,260, which was deposited into a bank account belonging to Smith and Parish Dubuclet. On or about October 8, 2005, Parish Dubuclet wrote a check in the amount of $10,460 to JACKSON’S father, which was deposited into a bank account that JACKSON, controlled jointly with her father. Several days later, JACKSON used this money to write a check to a tree removal service to pay for the removal of a tree from her mother’s yard.
Court documents state that from in or near December of 2006 through in or near July of 2007, JACKSON contracted with MYERS to renovate properties that she owned, which were located on 6th Street and Danneel Street in New Orleans, Louisiana. JACKSON paid MYERS tens of thousands of dollars toward the renovation project and used public funds belonging to the United States and distributed to NOAH to pay MYERS a portion of the money she owed him for these renovations.
Documents in the court records also outline that on or about November 1, 2007, JACKSON wrote two checks to companies owned and operated by MYERS. One check was for $47,899.50 to MYERS & Sons. JACKSON instructed MYERS to give portions of this money to different entities, such as a school that JACKSON was affiliated with. The second check for $32,842.50 was payable to Excel Development, also owned and operated by MYERS. JACKSON directed MYERS to kickback a portion of this money to her by having him write two checks, one for $9,400 and one for $7,000 payable to Z.F., a person who JACKSON knew personally and to whose checking account she had access. MYERS complied with these instructions because he knew it would ensure that he would continue getting NOAH remediation work assignments from JACKSON.
Also according to court documents, on or around August 13, 14, and 15, 2008, after JACKSON became aware that MYERS had received a subpoena from a federal grand jury ordering him to turn over documents supporting the work he had done for NOAH, JACKSON provided false and fraudulent documents to MYERS in an effort to mislead the federal grand jury into finding that no fraud occurred at the defendant’s direction or while she was the Executive Director of NOAH.
“Stacey Jackson’s criminal conduct was particularly despicable, as it prevented our most disadvantaged residents from receiving much-needed assistance as they struggled to rebuild their lives following Hurricane Katrina,” stated U.S. Attorney Kenneth Polite. “Of course, our entire region suffers as well, as her corruption perpetuates entrenched stereotypes about our public officials and further erodes public trust in our government. The court appropriately imposed the statutory maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, along with full restitution to her victims and a significant fine.”
"In the aftermath of the convictions and sentencings of former Mayor Ray Nagin and Ms. Jackson, the FBI and its law enforcement partners will continue their tireless pursuit of all those who unlawfully financially capitalize upon the Katrina tragedy event as its 10-year anniversary nears,” stated Michael Anderson, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Orleans Field Office.
IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Gabriel L. Grchan said, "We are pleased with the announcement of today’s sentence. Ms. Jackson will now be held accountable for using a public trust position to bill the citizens of New Orleans for work that was never performed. This investigation is a prime example of how Special Agents of IRS Criminal Investigation work with the FBI and the United States Attorney's Office to bring individuals involved in fraud to justice. We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to stop those individuals who scheme and conspire with each other to benefit themselves to the detriment of other citizens and their government."“This sentencing was the result of outstanding investigative work conducted by HUD-OIG, and our law enforcement partners,” stated Wyatt J. Achord, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development-Office of Inspector General. “This collaborative effort sends a clear message that if someone steals from government subsidized programs, or intentionally misdirects funds for their personal gain, they will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.”
“I am pleased that the New Orleans Office of Inspector General was able to assist our federal partners in gathering evidence for this prosecution,” said New Orleans IG Ed Quatrevaux.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Housing and Urban Development - Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the City of New Orleans - Office of Inspector General. The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Metropolitan Crime Commission. Assistant U.S. Attorney and Senior Litigation Counsel Fred P. Harper, Jr. and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan Lieberman are in charge of the prosecution.
Boston Man, Maximo Stiven Bernabel-pena, Pleads Guilty to Drug Charges Incurred During Hammond Traffic StopRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MAXIMO STIVEN BERNABEL-PENA, age 24, a resident of Boston, Massachusetts, pled guilty today to an indictment charging him with possession and possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. This defendant also pled guilty to drug conspiracy charges returned in the Northern District of Georgia. Under special procedures, BERNABEL-PENA pled guilty to this District’s charge as well as the Northern District of Georgia’s charge in Federal District Court in Atlanta today.
According to the indictment, on April 8, 2013, Troopers of the Louisiana State Police (LSP) Troop L Uniform Patrol Division, conducted a traffic stop in Hammond, Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, on Interstate 12 eastbound on a 2011 Dodge Caliber vehicle bearing a Florida license plate. The stop was based on a traffic violation. State Troopers identified the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle as BERNABEL-PENA.
Shortly after the traffic stop, State Troopers deployed a trained and qualified K-9 drug detection dog, and the dog performed a free air sniff test on the exterior of BERNABEL-PENA’s vehicle. The K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 6.48 kilograms of a white powdery substance that tested positive for the presence of cocaine in a hidden compartment found beneath the flooring of the vehicle.
LSP troopers also seized $2,921 in U.S. currency from BERNABEL-PENA’s personal effects and this money was the proceeds of illegal drug activity by the defendant.
The Northern District of Georgia indicted twelve members of a national cocaine trafficking organization that included BERNABEL-PENA, charging a large-scale drug conspiracy investigated as an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) case, code-named “Operation Holy Trap.” The investigation, lasting 18 months, involved drug activity in Georgia, Florida, Massachusetts, Texas, and Louisiana.
The organization is alleged to have been overseen by Edwin Rivera, a/k/a Neno, a/k/a Nano (“Rivera”), a Boston-based drug dealer. To date, investigators have seized over 70 kilograms of cocaine and approximately $1,000,000 in drug proceeds.
The Eastern District of Louisiana component of the investigation was led by the Department of Homeland Security (Border Enforcement Security Task Force, BEST, New Orleans) with the assistance of the Louisiana State Police, Troop L Uniform Patrol Division.
The Atlanta investigation component of this case was led by FBI agents from the David G. Wilhelm OCDETF-Atlanta Strike Force, which consists of federal, state, and local drug officers and focuses on dismantling international drug organizations operating in the United States. The investigation also included participation from the Strike Force members: the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the United States Marshals Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS), the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI), Lawrenceville Police, Gwinnett County Sheriff’s Office, Clayton County Police, and Barrow County Sheriff’s Office.
On both District’s charges, BERNABEL-PENA faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten years, a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a maximum fine of $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.
“The distribution of dangerous illegal drugs reflects a callous disregard for public safety,” said Raymond R. Parmer, Jr., special agent in charge of DHS/HSI New Orleans. “This criminal seriously underestimated the dedication of DHS/HSI and its federal, state and local law enforcement partners to investigate and seek prosecution of dangerous individuals who threaten the safety of our law-abiding communities.” Parmer oversees a five-state area of responsibility including Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas and Tennessee.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of all agencies including the Department of Homeland Security Offices in the Eastern District of Louisiana in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney John F. Murphy is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Factual Basis )
Witness Tampering Indictment Returned Against Two New Orleans MenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ANTONIO NEVEAUX, 39, and ANTHONY B. WASHINGTON, 52, both residents of New Orleans, were charged today in a superseding indictment with conspiring to tamper with a witness during a pending federal investigation. The superseding indictment also realleges the counts of an indictment returned by the grand jury against NEVEAUX in February 2014 charging him with possession with the intent to distribute more than 28 grams of crack cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, NEVEAUX and WASHINGTON conspired to corruptly obstruct a federal grand jury proceeding investigating NEVEAUX.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, (“ATF”) in investigating this matter. Assistant Tony Sanders of the Violent Crimes Unit under the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative is in charge of this prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Two New Orleans Men Plead Guilty to Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RYAN DAVIN MANNING, age 37, and DANIEL LEVI MORRIS, age 34, both residents of New Orleans, pled guilty as charged on October 15, 2014, to conspiracy to distribute and possession with Intent to Distribute heroin.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing on December 10, 2014.
This investigation targeted a drug trafficking organization that operated in the River Gardens Apartment area of New Orleans.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney J. Collin Sims is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Factual Basis - Manning )
(Download Factual Basis - Morris )
Second Superseding Indictment Returned<br /> Against Fnd Gang MembersRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite, Jr., announced the return of a second superseding indictment charging members of the Frenchmen/Derbigny gang, or “FnD,” with violating federal drug and firearm laws. A federal grand jury returned the second superseding indictment today against TRAVIS SCOTT, a/k/a “Trap” or “Slim,” age 30; STANLEY SCOTT, a/k/a “Stizzle,” age 22; SHAWN SCOTT, a/k/a “Shizzle,” age 25; AKEIN SCOTT, a/k/a “Keemy,” age 21; JEREMIAH JACKSON, a/k/a “Rocky,” age 24; BRIAN BENSON, a/k/a “Dub” or “Dubba,” age 30; and CRYSTAL SCOTT, a/k/a “Chris,” age 33. All defendants are residents of New Orleans.
The second superseding indictment contains all of the charges of the prior indictment, including the shooting perpetrated by SHAWN SCOTT and AKEIN SCOTT on May 12, 2013. The indictment adds four additional charges of discharging firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. These charges include a March 22, 2012, shooting perpetrated by STANLEY SCOTT, AKEIN SCOTT, and JEREMIAH JACKSON; a March 25, 2012, shooting committed by TRAVIS SCOTT, STANLEY SCOTT, and AKEIN SCOTT; a July 16, 2012, shooting by STANLEY SCOTT and AKEIN SCOTT; and an August 4, 2012, shooting by STANLEY SCOTT, SHAWN SCOTT, and AKEIN SCOTT. The indictment also alleges that JEREMIAH JACKSON possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking on August 20, 2013. All defendants are presently in custody pending trial.
If convicted of any of the additional shootings in furtherance of drug trafficking, the defendants face a mandatory sentence of 10 years of imprisonment to be served consecutive with any other sentence, a $250,000.00 fine, and five years of supervised release. For the additional charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, JEREMIAH JACKSON could receive a sentence of 5 years of imprisonment to be served consecutive with any other sentence, a $250,000.00 fine, and five years of supervised release.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives as part of the metro area’s Multi-Agency Gang Unit (MAG). 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.
U. S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Payne and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian Ebarb, who is assigned from the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office.
(Download Superseding Indictment )
Rollin 60s Cripts Gang Member, Quenshey Mitchell, Sentenced to Life in Prison for Heroin Conspiracy and Obstruction of Justice Involving Murder of A Federal WitnessRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that QUENSHEY MITCHELL, a/k/a “Ripper,” “Baby Ripper,” and “Q”, age 37, from Los Angeles, California, was sentenced today to life imprisonment for violating federal heroin trafficking and obstruction of justice laws. MITCHELL is a member of the Rollin 60s Crips Gang based in Los Angeles, California.
Following a four-day trial that concluded on January 9, 2014, a federal jury convicted MITCHELL of all six counts in the superseding indictment, specifically: one count of conspiracy to distribute heroin; two counts of conspiracy to obstruct justice through murder; two counts of obstruction of justice through murder; and one count of obstruction of justice. The trial evidence showed that MITCHELL was the Los Angeles source of supply of multiple kilograms of heroin being transported to New Orleans by female couriers. Cristina S. Williams, who had previously been charged in the Eastern District of Louisiana for her role in transporting heroin, was murdered in Los Angeles on July 29, 2010, as the Drug Enforcement Administration’s investigation progressed to identify the leaders of the heroin conspiracy. MITCHELL was first indicted in New Orleans for his role in the heroin conspiracy, and later, for his role in Ms. Williams’s murder.
U. S. Attorney Polite stated, “Quenshey Mitchell was willing to do anything to protect his heroin trafficking enterprise, including taking the life of a potential witness against him. Today’s sentence ensures that his drug dealing and violence will come to an end, as he will spend the rest of his life behind bars.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) and Detectives with the Los Angeles Police Department (“LAPD”) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys William J. Quinlan, Jr. and Harry W. McSherry are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man, Curtis Anderson, Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Possession of Stolen Credit and Debit Card NumbersRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CURTIS ANDERSON, age 36, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and possession of unauthorized access devices.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced ANDERSON to serve 27 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 special assessment. ANDERSON was also ordered to pay $75,361.68 to BP and the banks that suffered financial losses as a result of his card skimming scheme.
According to court documents, between September 2010 and January 2011, ANDERSON submitted false documents and made false statements to the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (“GCCF”) in support of his claim that his janitorial business lost income as a result of the BP oil spill. In addition to defrauding BP, ANDERSON was found to be in possession of 317 unauthorized access devices (credit and debit card account numbers) that belonged to other individuals.
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 Secret Service and FBI in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Citizen, Ramon Frias-lopez, Illegally in United States SentencedRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RAMON FRIAS-LOPEZ, age 30, a Mexican citizen who was illegally in the United States, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced FRIAS-LOPEZ to 18 months imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
According to court documents, on or about May 7, 2014, FRIAS-LOPEZ was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about April 27, 2010.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agencies in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.Gulfport Man, Darryl Williams, Pleads Guilty to Drug Conspiracy and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DARRYL WILLIAMS, age 26, a resident of Gulfport, Mississippi, pled guilty today to an indictment charging him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to the indictment, beginning on a date unknown and continuing until on or about May 21, 2014, WILLIAMS knowingly combined, conspired, confederated and agreed with persons known and unknown, to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride. Also, on May 21, 2014, WILLIAMS, having previously been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed in and affecting interstate commerce, a Ruger Model SR40C, .40 caliber semiautomatic handgun.
On the drug count, WILLIAMS faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of $5,000,000.00, four years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100.00 special assessment. On the gun count, WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000.00, three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing for February 26, 2015.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre’ Jones is in charge of the prosecution.
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Bogalusa Man, Donelle Piggott, Sentenced for Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DONELLE PIGGOTT, age 49, resident of Bogalusa, was sentenced on October 14, 2014, 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 PIGOTT to a 48-month term of imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release.
On February 6, 2014, PIGGOTT 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 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 in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael E. McMahon is in charge of the prosecution.
Slidell Man, Casey Thonn, Pleads Guilty to Defrauding<br /> the Deepwater Horizon Economic Claims Center<br /> Out of over $355,000Read the Press Release
The United States Attorney’s Office announced that CASEY THONN (“THONN”), 35, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, pled guilty today to a two-count Bill of Information which charged THONN with wire fraud in connection with claims THONN filed with the Deepwater Horizon Economic Claims Center (“DHECC”). Specifically, both counts of the Bill of Information charged THONN with violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.
According to court documents, on June 24, 2012, THONN submitted multiple claims with the Seafood Compensation Program administered by the DHECC based on losses THONN allegedly sustained as result of the April 2010 oil spill. Subsequently, in early November 2012, the DHECC notified THONN that he was eligible to receive approximately $1,750.36 for these claims.
In turn, on December 3, 2012, THONN submitted Requests for Reconsideration of his original eligibility notices requesting his compensation be recalculated based on a false Federal tax return THONN provided to the DHECC. In that false submission, THONN claimed he received $156,000 of gross revenue from commercial shrimping sales in 2009. This fraudulent submission increased the defendant’s compensation from $1,750.36 to a total of $357,002.35 for these claims. Finally, in March 2013, THONN received a total of $357,002.35 from the DHECC which was caused by his fraudulent submissions, resulting in an illegal gain of $355,251.99.
THONN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, a $ 250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. will sentence THONN on January 28, 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, flood, 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 70821-4904.This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matt Coman.
(Download Factual Basis )
New Orleans Man, Jeremy Shawn Reason, Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Polite announced that JEREMY SHAWN REASON, age 34, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty today for crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children.
According to court documents, REASON knowingly accessed child pornography with the intent to view images depicting the sexual victimization of minors. REASON had been in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons since his previous conviction in 2008 for Possession of Child Pornography. At the time of his arrest in April 2013, REASON was residing at a halfway house.
As a result of REASON’s previous conviction, he faces a mandatory term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and a maximum of 20 years followed by up to a lifetime term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
Sentencing before U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. will be held on January 14, 2015.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U. S. Department of Homeland Security, HSI. Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Fraud Section Chief, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Factual Basis )
Harvey Man, Dominic Terell Lewis, Sentenced for Receipt of Stolen Government MoneyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth Polite announced that DOMINIC TERELL LEWIS, age 32, a resident of Harvey, Louisiana, was sentenced today after having previously pled of guilty to receipt of stolen government money.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced LEWIS to 5 years probation and restitution in the amount of $4,234.
According to court documents, LEWIS obtained a $4,234 Treasury check that was inadvertently delivered to his home address. LEWIS knew the check did not belong to him but had another individual forge the payee’s signature and deposit the check. LEWIS received most of the proceeds.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assisstant United States Attorney Chandra Menon is in charge of the prosecution.
Over 30,000 Students to Take Pledge Against Gun ViolenceRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Kenneth Polite announced that on Wednesday, October 15, 2014, over 30,000 students in over 70 schools across Southeast Louisiana will participate in his Office’s first district-wide Student Pledge Against Gun Violence Day.
Middle and high school students will sign a voluntary pledge promising that they will never take a gun to school, will never resolve a dispute with a gun, and will use their influence to prevent friends from using guns to resolve disputes. Elementary school children will make a simpler commitment, pledging that if they see a gun they will not touch it, they will assume that any gun they see might be loaded, and they will tell a teacher or a trusted adult.
In coordination with the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods program, the Student Pledge Against Gun Violence is a national program that recognizes the role that young people, through their own decisions, can play in reducing gun violence. This campaign against youth gun violence culminates each October in a Day of National Concern about Young People and Gun Violence. Students from around the country will join together in pledging to do their part to end gun violence. Over 10 million students nationwide have signed the pledge since its inception in 1996.
U.S. Attorney Polite stated that his Office began using the pledge during the 2013-14 school year, with approximately 2500 students signing the pledge at seven schools. Because of the outstanding response from school leaders and students, the Office decided to expand the initiative district-wide to include all schools in all 13 parishes, including Assumption, Jefferson, Lafourche, Plaquemines, Orleans, St. Bernard, St. Charles, St. James, St. John the Baptist, St. Tammany, Tangipahoa, Terrebonne, and Washington. "Our Office is pleased to take this opportunity to reach out to students, engage in a dialogue about gun violence and the importance of making right choices, and encourage them to become peacemakers of our time," stated U.S. Attorney Polite.
In addition to providing the pledges, members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies will serve as speakers at several schools to talk to students about what they can do to reduce gun violence in their communities.
The participating schools and law enforcement agencies are as follows:
Schools:
Algiers Technology Academy (Orleans Parish)
Alice Birney Elementary School (Jefferson Parish)
Assumption High School (Assumption Parish)
Benjamin Franklin Elementary Mathematics and Science School (Orleans Parish)
C.T. Janet Elementary School (Jefferson Parish)
Christian Brothers School (Orleans Parish)
De La Salle High School (Orleans Parish)
Dwight D. Eisenhower Academy of Global Studies (Orleans Parish)
East Houma Elementary School (Terrebonne Parish)
East St. John Elementary School (St. John Parish)
East St. John High School (St. John Parish)
Emily C. Watkins Elementary (St. John Parish)
Esperenza Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Fannie C. Williams Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Fifth Ward Elementary (St. John Parish)
Fisher Middle/High School (Jefferson Parish)
G. T. Woods Elementary School (Jefferson Parish)
Garyville/Mt. Aire Math & Science Magnet (St. John Parish)
Gentilly Terrace Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Golden Meadow Lower Elementary School (Lafourche Parish)
Gretna No. 2 Academy for Advanced Studies (Jefferson Parish)
Hammond Junior High Magnet School (Tangipahoa Parish)
Harry Hurst Middle School (St. Charles Parish)
Helen Cox High School (Jefferson Parish)
Henry Ford Middle School (Jefferson Parish)
International High School of New Orleans (Orleans Parish)
J.C. Ellis Elementary (Jefferson Parish)
Jefferson Elementary (Jefferson Parish)
John L. Ory Communication Arts Magnet School (St. John Parish)
Johnson Gretna Park Elementary School (Jefferson Parish)
Joshua Butler Elementary School (Jefferson Parish)
KIPP Believe Primary School (Orleans Parish)
KIPP Renaissance High School (Orleans)
Lafayette Academy Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Lake Area New Tech Early College High School (Orleans Parish)
Lake Forest Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Lake Pontchartrain Elementary School (St. John Parish)
LaPlace Elementary School (St. John Parish)
Laurence D. Crocker College Prep (Orleans Parish)
Livaudais Middle School (Jefferson Parish)
Martin Behrman Elementary (Orleans Parish)
Mary McLeod Bethune Elementary School (Orleans Parish)
Mater Dolorosa Catholic School (Tangipahoa Parish)
McDonogh 32 Literacy Charter School (Orleans Parish)
McDonogh 26 Elementary (Jefferson Parish)
McDonogh 42 Elementary Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Medard H. Nelson Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Mildred Harris Elementary (Jefferson Parish)
Miller Wall Elementary (Jefferson Parish)
Myrtle C. Thibodeaux Elementary (Jefferson Parish)
New Orleans Military and Maritime Academy (Orleans Parish)
Northshore High School (St. Tammany Parish)
Our Lady of Grace School (St. John Parish)
Paul J. Solis Elememtary (Jefferson Parish)
Pierre A. Capdau Charter School (Orleans Parish)
Pierre Part Middle School (Assumption Parish)
St. Augustine High School (Orleans Parish)
St. Benedict the Moor (Orleans Parish)
St. Bernard Middle School (St. Bernard Parish)
St. Christopher School (Jefferson Parish)
St. Peter Claver Catholic School (Orleans Parish)
St. Mary's Academy (Orleans Parish)
Sylvanie Williams College Prep (Orleans Parish)
T. H. Harris Middle School (Jefferson Parish)
The Good Shepherd School (Orleans Parish)
Vic A. Pitre Elementary School (Jefferson Parish)
Village East Middle School (Terrebonne Parish)
West St. John Elementary (St. John Parish)
West St. John High School (St. John Parish)
Wesley Ray Elementary School (Washington Parish)
William Fischer Accelerated Academy (Orleans Parish)
William Hart Elementary (Jefferson Parish)Agencies:
Assumption Parish Sheriff’s Office
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Gretna Police Department
Houma Police Department
Houma Sheriff’s Department
Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office
New Orleans Police Department
St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office
Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office
U.S. ProbationFormer New Orleans Traffic Court Chief Financial Officer, Vandale Thomas, Found Guilty After TrialRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that, after a week-long jury trial, VANDALE THOMAS, age 40, a resident of Prairieville, Louisiana, was convicted on all 11 counts of theft, money laundering, and structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements. Seventeen witnesses testified for the United States, establishing that THOMAS knowingly embezzled over $680,000 during his three-year tenure as the Chief Financial Officer at New Orleans Traffic Court (“Traffic Court”).
THOMAS was found guilty of three counts of theft concerning programs receiving federal funds resulting from his employment at Traffic Court. Evidence presented at trial established that on November 24, 2008, THOMAS and his accounting firm, Thomas & Thomas Accounting Services, LLC, were hired by Traffic Court to provide accounting and bookkeeping services. THOMAS’s initial agreement with Traffic Court allowed him to bill at a rate of $75.00 an hour and his contract was not to exceed $75,000 for a twelve month period. THOMAS’s billings exceeded $75,000 within the first few months of his agreement. On six additional occasions between November 24, 2008, and April 13, 2011, THOMAS received written authorization from the City of New Orleans and Traffic Court to expand the amount that he could bill. In total, the City and Traffic Court authorized THOMAS to submit invoices and receive compensation for accounting services in an amount not to exceed $627,000. However, subsequent audits by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s Office and the Office of the Inspector General for the City of New Orleans, and an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation revealed that THOMAS submitted 174 invoices and was issued 173 checks totaling $1,311,065.53.
THOMAS was also found guilty of three counts of laundering illegal funds obtained from Traffic Court. The jury found that on September 14 and September 24, 2010, THOMAS used illegally obtained money from Traffic Court to purchase casino chips in excess of $10,000 at a New Orleans casino and THOMAS used illegally obtained money from Traffic Court to make a down payment on an $80,000 Bentley GT Coupe.Additionally, THOMAS was found guilty of five counts of structuring transactions to evade reporting requirements. According to the evidence and testimony presented during the trial, THOMAS used numerous bank branches in order to evade federal currency transaction reporting requirements. Specifically, THOMAS went to multiple bank locations in New Orleans and Baton Rouge to structure cash withdrawals in order to evade the currency transaction reporting requirement that all transactions over $10,000 be reported by financial institutions to the Internal Revenue Service.
The maximum penalty THOMAS may receive for Counts 1 through 6 (Theft from Programs Receiving Federal Funds and Money Laundering) is ten years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine per count. The maximum penalty for Counts 7 through 11 (Structuring Transactions to Evade Reporting Requirements) is five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine per count.
Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for January 14, 2015, before U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr.
U.S. Attorney Polite stated, “Vandale Thomas defrauded the City of New Orleans out of hundreds of thousands of dollars in taxpayer dollars. He then blatantly flaunted his fraudulent conduct on gambling sprees and expensive cars. Today’s guilty verdict ensures that Thomas will be held accountable for his corrupt conduct. Moreover, this case should send a message to those public officials who are engaging in corruption, or are even contemplating doing so. Everyone in this community – the U.S. Attorney’s Office, our law enforcement partners, average residents, your co-workers, even those who you believe are trusted co-conspirators – will eventually work together to turn a spotlight on your criminality.”
IRS-CI Special Agent in Charge, Gabriel L. Grchan, stated, "All of the facts set forth in this trial proved that what Vandale Thomas did was nothing more than common thievery. The residents of New Orleans and the surrounding areas are fed up with seeing individuals like Thomas steal public funds to support their personal lifestyles of extravagance. The jury echoed that sentiment today with their verdict. IRS-CI will continue to aggressively pursue individuals who engage in the theft of public funds, and will seek to have them prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law."
New Orleans Inspector General Ed Quatrevaux stated, “The conviction today of the former Traffic Court accountant began with an evaluation of Traffic Court by the New Orleans Office of Inspector General, and shows what happens to those who steal from the City today. OIG staff assisted our federal law enforcement partners and prosecutors in building the case against Vandale Thomas. This partnership has resulted in the City of New Orleans being much better protected from those who would prey upon it, and we thank our federal partners for their efforts.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations Division, and the New Orleans Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Brian M. Klebba, Matthew Payne, and Marquest Meeks are in charge of the prosecution.
St. Tammany Man, Darrell Morris, Pleads Guilty to Charges Related to Filing Fraudulent Claims for Oil Spill CompensationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DARRELL MORRIS, age 55, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud relating to a fraudulent application 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. On or about October 1, 2010, MORRIS applied for disaster assistance funds, representing that he was employed in a commercial fishing business before the oil spill. However, MORRIS had never worked in the commercial fishing business, and he submitted or caused to be submitted false documentation to establish his false earnings. Based on his fraudulent application, MORRIS received approximately $75,000 to which he was not entitled.
MORRIS 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 Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing for February 12, 2015.
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.
(Download Factual Basis )
New Orleans Woman, Qiana Anderson, Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that QIANA ANDERSON, 35, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced QIANA ANDERSON to two years probation. In addition, ANDERSON was ordered to pay $18,810 in restitution to the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) which was established by BP Exploration and Production, Inc. (BP) concerning the April 10, 2010 explosion on the Deepwater Horizon. Co-defendant CURTIS ANDERSON is scheduled to be sentenced on October 16, 2014, before Judge Milazzo.
According to court documents, between September 2010 and January 3, 2011, the ANDERSONs submitted false documents and made false statements to the GCCF in support of their claim that CURTIS ANDERSON’s janitorial business lost income as a result of the BP oil spill.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Secret Service and FBI in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Citizen, Antonio Rodriguez-gallardo, Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ANTONIO RODRIGUEZ-GALLARDO, age 32, a citizen of Mexico and most recently residing in Houma, Louisiana, was charged today in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of 8 U.S.C. ' 1326(a).
According to the indictment, RODRIGUEZ-GALLARDO reentered the United States on or about September 4, 2014 after having been previously removed on October 29, 2012.
If convicted, RODRIGUEZ-GALLARDO 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 Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
(Download Indictment )
Honduran Man, Miguel Villatoro-portillo, Sentenced for Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MIGUEL VILLATORO-PORTILLO, age 34, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown sentenced VILLATORO-PORTILLO to 12 months imprisonment followed by two years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
According to court records, on or about June 12, 2014, MIGUEL VILLATORO-PORTILLO was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about January 9, 2009.
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 Emily K. Greenfield is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran Man, Jose Luis Mayorga-lemus, Pleads Guilty to Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSE LUIS MAYORGA-LEMUS, age 24, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty yesterday to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
According to the indictment, on or about August 28, 2014, MAYORGA-LEMUS was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about August 3, 2011.
MAYORGA-LEMUS 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 Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing for January 7, 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.
(Download Factual Basis )
East Hollygrove Neighborhood Gang Member, Avian Brule, Sentenced on Federal Drug and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that AVIAN BRULE, a/k/a “Ave,” 21, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced yesterday after having pled guilty to federal drug and firearm violations. Judge Ivan L.M. Lemelle sentenced BRULE, a first-time offender, to serve 50 months in federal prison and ordered him to serve 3 years of supervised release once he is released from prison.
BRULE was one of seven defendants charged with conspiring to distribute heroin and cocaine base in the East Hollygrove neighborhood. In addition, all seven defendants were charged with conspiring to possess firearms in furtherance of their drug trafficking crimes, and several of them were charged with committing substantive acts of violence.
To date, all of the gang members in this case, except for CHARLES JOHNSON, a/k/a “Chuck,” 25, have pled guilty to various charges. JOHNSON is scheduled for trial on December 8, 2014. The following co-defendants are currently pending separate sentencing hearings over the next two months: ROBERT JOHNSON, a/k/a “Skinny,” 24; THOMAS HENDERSON, a/k/a “T,” 24; LAVELL STOVAL, a/k/a “Vell,” 21; WILLIAM HENDERSON, a/k/a “Will,” 20; and, ERSKINE WATERS, 22.
According to court documents and evidence presented at BRULE’s sentencing, federal agents seized a cellular phone from co-defendant WILLIAM HENDERSON. After obtaining a search warrant for the phone, agents found a video, recorded on November 5, 2012, that WILLIAM HENDERSON took of himself and BRULE conducting a heroin sale in a car with a known third party. (See attached video) In the video BRULE and HENDERSON are seen negotiating a heroin deal while a four-year-old child was sitting in the backseat of the car. Additional pictures retrieved from HENDERSON’s phone show the same child holding a semi-automatic handgun in the backseat of the same vehicle. (See attached photographs)
U.S. Attorney Polite stated, “Even as a first-time offender, Avian Brule deserved the
lengthy jail sentence imposed here. He and his East Hollygrove gang members terrorized their own neighborhood through narcotics trafficking and violence. Even worse, Brule and his fellow defendants exposed a four-year-old boy to their criminal conduct. Being exposed to guns and drugs certainly placed this boy at risk of physical harm. At the same time, it jeopardizes his future, as the misguided lesson learned by him –and other young people in the same predicament – is that this conduct is acceptable, normal, and even encouraged. It certainly is not. We must use all available tools – prevention, intervention and enforcement – to break this cycle of criminality.”U.S. Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigations as part of the MAG Unit in investigating this matter. Deputy Chief of the Criminal Division and Assistant United States Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. is in charge of this prosecution.
Raceland Man, Johnny Smith, Sentenced to 24 Years for Sexual Exploitation of Chldren and Possessing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOHNNY SMITH, age 43, a resident of Raceland, Louisiana, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to the sexual exploitation of children and possession of images depicting the sexual victimization of children under the age of twelve-years-old.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced SMITH to 292 months imprisonment, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. In addition, SMITH will have to register as a sex offender. A restitution hearing has been scheduled for December 10, 2014.
According to the court documents, after a lengthy investigation Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) special agents executed a search warrant on SMITH’S home on July 23, 2013, during which they seized several items of electronic evidence. During a review of the evidence, agents found videos SMITH recorded in which he engaged in sexually explicit conduct with a three-year-old girl. SMITH recorded the videos between about May 12, 2013, and June 23, 2013. Agents also found approximately seven videos of seventeen images depicting children under the age of twelve engaged in sexually explicit conduct that SMITH had downloaded and saved to his computer.
U.S. Attorney Polite stated, “Today’s sentence of 24 years imprisonment is most appropriate, given that Mr. Smith engaged in, and made video recordings of, sex acts with a three-year-old. Our Office will remain vigilant in bringing to justice all those who create and circulate these hideous depictions of the sexual exploitation of children.”
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 Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.