Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Louisiana Man Pleads Guilty to Cares Act FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ERNEST X. TAYLOR, JR., of Laplace, LA, age 38, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion to two counts of making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
On March 27, 2020, The CARES Act became effective and established several new temporary programs and expanded others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers, maintain payroll, and make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
According to the charging documents, TAYLOR made false statements to an approved lender on or about March 2, 2021, to fraudulently obtain a PPP loan. TAYLOR falsely claimed in his PPP application that he had not been convicted of any felony involving “fraud, bribery, embezzlement, or a false statement in a loan application or an application for federal financial assistance” within the last 5 years. In truth, TAYLOR pleaded guilty on July 15, 2016, in the Eastern District of Virginia, criminal matter no. 16-118, to conspiracy to commit federal student loan fraud in a stolen identity mail fraud scheme. TAYLOR thereafter received approximately $18,500 based upon the misrepresentations. TAYLOR then made the same false statements to an approved lender on or about April 21, 2021, when he applied for a second draw PPP loan. TAYLOR received approximately $18,500 for the second loan.
Sentencing will occur on March 26, 2024. TAYLOR faces up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each false statements count.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violations of Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JASHA BANKS, a/k/a “Chocolate,” age 39, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on November 30, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to 120 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to a three-count indictment. Judge Morgan ordered that BANKS be placed on supervised release for three (3) years and pay a mandatory $300 special assessment fee.
Count 1 charged BANKS with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) and Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(a)(8). Count 2 charged BANKS with possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). Count 3 charged BANKS with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
According to court records, on August 2, 2022, a New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officer attempted to make a lawful stop of a white Chrysler 300 driven by BANKS. However, BANKS fled from the officer before being apprehended. After obtaining a search warrant for BANKS’s vehicle, NOPD officers searched the car and located $31,478 in cash, 12 individually wrapped baggies containing a blue rock-like substance (46.7 grams) identified as fentanyl, a black Glock Model 23, .40 caliber handgun containing 14 live rounds, and various other items.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.
Metairie Man Sentenced for Using Communication Device to Facilitate Felony Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRANDON MARTINEZ, a/k/a “RABBIT,” a resident of Metairie, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to forty-eight (48) months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to use of a communication facility to facilitate felony drug trafficking, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 843(b). Judge Fallon ordered that MARTINEZ be placed on supervised release for three (3) years following release from prison. MARTINEZ was also ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court records, prior to March 2, 2021, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,, Firearms and Explosives ("ATF") learned that a motorcycle in New Orleans, might be harboring drug sellers. ATF used confidential informant ("CI") to investigate whether drug sales were indeed occurring.
On March 2, 2021, the CI traveled to the shop and met with MARTINEZ. The CI told MARTINEZ that he wanted to buy methamphetamine. MARTINEZ then used a cellphone to set up a meeting between the CI and a co-defendant in this case, who sold methamphetamine. All of the co-defendants involved in this case previously plead guilty to selling and attempting to sell over 50 grams of methamphetamine, in addition to gun charges.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun track violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit .
Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of a Firearm After Felony ConvictionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CARLSEL ALEXANDER, age 27, a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced on November 30, 2023 by United States District Judge Susie Morgan, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
The indictment alleged that ALEXANDER was a convicted felon in possession of a FN Model 509, 9-millimeter semiautomatic handgun.
ALEXANDER was sentenced to thirty-three (33) months imprisonment followed by three (3) years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the General Crimes Unit.
Houston Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – On November 29, 2023, United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced JORGE ISAAC GONZALEZ-MEDINA, age 32, of Houston, to the mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years in federal prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, for violating the Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
GONZALEZ-MEDINA was also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
According to court records, GONZALEZ-MEDINA admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). GONZALEZ-MEDINA further admitted to being stopped in a vehicle with three kilograms of fentanyl concealed in the rear axle.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Postal Service Employee Indicted for Mail TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that TIMOTHY MCMILLAN, JR., age 43, of New Orleans, was indicted on November 30, 2023 for Theft of Mail by a Postal Service employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.
According to the indictment, on October 11, 2023, MCMILLAN stole and removed money from a letter entrusted to him, while performing his assigned duties as an employee of the United States Postal Service.
If convicted, MCMILLAN faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
United States Attorney Evans 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 Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Jefferson Parish Man Charged with Violation of National Firearm ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JOSEPH METZLER, III, age 44, of Gretna, was indicted on November 30, 2023 for possession of a silencer that was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.
According to the indictment, on May 9, 2023, METZLER possessed a silencer that was not registered to him, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 5861(d).
If convicted, METZLER faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $10,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
United States Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Weapons Offenses and Possessing Car Stolen from Norfolk Southern RailyardRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NORMAN ANDREWS, age 23, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on November 28, 2023 before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to possession of a car stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659; possession with intent to distribute tapentadol and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
According to court documents, ANDREWS was arrested, following a brief chase, on February 11, 2023 in the French Quarter by a New Orleans Police Department officer. When ANDREWS was finally apprehended, he possessed a Glock Model 19x firearm with a loaded, extended magazine containing 31 rounds, a black ski mask, two blister packs of tapentadol, two bags of marijuana, and over $2,000 in cash.
On March 27, 2023, a Ford Explorer Timberline was stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility. Andrews was observed on surveillance video driving the Ford Explorer, two days after it was stolen.
For possessing the stolen car, ANDREWS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. For possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and a minimum of three years of supervised release for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances. For possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, ANDREWS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
Lutcher Man Sentenced for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Today, United States District Judge Carl Barbier sentenced JUAN CAZES to 216 months imprisonment for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
CAZES was indicted on November 4, 2021 for possessing with intent to distribute approximately two (2) pounds or 909 grams of crystal methamphetamine. According to court documents, CAZES planned to sell the crystal methamphetamine to a confidential source. Following completion of his prison term, CAZES will face five years of supervised release. He is also required to pay a $200 mandatory special assessment fee per count.
U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
Lafayette Man Sentenced to 57 Months Imprisonment for Federal Gun OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On November 29, 2023, U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced DAVON EUGENE to 57 months in the Bureau of Prisons for possession of a machine gun and being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
EUGENE was indicted on January 22, 2021 for possessing a machinegun, a Glock Model 26, 9 mm handgun, bearing serial number XPT053, equipped with a Glock auto-sear, while being a convicted felon. EUGENE will serve 57 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.
Kenner Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Misprision of a FelonyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RYAN MOREAU, age 30, a resident of Kenner, Louisiana, was sentenced on November 29, 2023 by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to time served, 1 year of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to misprision of a felony, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 4, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on November 19, 2020, a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Deputy learned than an individual was traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 after having purchased narcotics from his source of supply. Agents established surveillance along Interstate 10 and conducted a traffic stop of the truck. As the agents approached the truck, the front seat passenger gave a bag containing several ounces of methamphetamine to MOREAU. MOREAU, who was seated in the back seat, put the bag into a container of bleach that was also located on the back seat. As one of the agents approached, he saw a torn plastic bag with methamphetamine next to MOREAU. MOREAU admitted placing the methamphetamine in the container of bleach to avoid detection by law enforcement.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
Jefferson Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – VINH NGUYEN, age 39, of Gretna, pled guilty on November 29, 2023 to one (1) count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846, and eight (8) counts of interstate travel in aid of racketeering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, in July 2019, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Agents learned that NGUYEN, and others, participated in a drug and money trafficking network that spanned from California to Louisiana. Text messages confirmed that NGUYEN worked with a supplier in California, who negotiated the cost and strains of marijuana with growers in San Francisco for NGUYEN. NGUYEN paid for the marijuana by having other co-conspirators fly the cash to the supplier in San Francisco. Another co-conspirator owned a shipping company that shipped the marijuana from San Francisco to a warehouse in Kenner. Yet another co-conspirator would pick up the marijuana shipments from the Kenner warehouse and deliver them to various unknown locations in the New Orleans area and other cities throughout the country.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This case was investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
East Feliciana Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Wire FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – CLARENCE “BILLY” BURKETTE, age 55, a resident of Slaughter, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on November 9, 2023, to wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to his guilty plea, BURKETTE admitted to defrauding the Town of Pearl River in connection with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance Program. This program provides grants for state, territorial, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of non-profits, and is administered by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP). BURKETTE, who contracted to provide disaster assistance services to the Town of Pearl River, misrepresented, among other things, the amount of public assistance grant funds available to the Town of Pearl River. BURKETTE further misrepresented that his own fees would be reimbursed by FEMA. The Town of Pearl River paid BURKETTE $185,200 for services related to the Disaster Assistance Agreement that he falsely claimed to have provided.
BURKETTE faces a maximum sentence of thirty years in prison. After imprisonment, he faces up to five years of supervised release, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Pursuant to the plea agreement, BURKETTE will also owe the Town of Pearl $598,196.25 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Evans commended the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, IRS-Criminal Investigation, and the District Attorney’s Office, 22nd Judicial District, for their handling of the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit and J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TORIN JENKINS, age 29, of New Orleans, pled guilty on November 28, 2023 to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). Sentencing is set for March 12, 2024.
On December 3, 2021, NOPD officers arrested JENKINS based on open state warrants. After initially failing to cooperate with officers, JENKINS was seen throwing an object of the window of his residence. After JENKINS eventually surrendered, officers discovered the object was a Glock Model 36, .45 caliber firearm. JENKINS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit .
New Orleans Man Charged with Sexual Exploitation of Children and Transferring Obscene Matter to a MinorRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that a four-count indictment was unsealed today charging DOMINICK ANTHONY VALOTTA (a/k/a joncimpo#8015), age 38, a resident of New Orleans, with two counts of sexual exploitation of children, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a) (Counts 1-2) and two counts of transfer of obscene matter to a minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1470 (Counts 3-4). A federal grand jury returned the indictment under seal on November 16, 2023.
According to the indictment, at various dates in late 2022 and early 2023, VALOTTA coerced a minor female born in August 2007, who was a resident of North Carolina (Victim 1), and a minor female born in July 2008, who was a resident of Ohio (Victim 2), to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct. Further, on at least two dates in late 2022, VALOTTA transferred obscene matter to a minor female born in March 2008, who was a resident of North Carolina (Victim 3).
As to each of Counts 1 and 2, VALOTTA faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years and a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty (30) years. He also faces, for each of Counts 1 and 2, a minimum of five (5) years and a maximum of a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. As to each of Counts 3 and 4, VALOTTA faces a maximum term of ten years in prison, as well as up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. He may also be required to register as a sex offender.
U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative 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 Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
Laplace Resident Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud for Defrauding Cares Act Financial Assistance ProgramRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BASHIR SCHOFIELD, age 24, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to a bill of information charging him with wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, for his role in preparing and filing false applications for loans related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
According to court documents, BASHIR SCHOFIELD and two relatives, submitted applications to fraudulently obtain money from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster (EIDL) loans. SCHOFIELD and his relatives submitted loan applications that falsely represented that the applicant had a sole proprietorship and generated substantial income from that business. SCHOFIELD and his relatives’ false representations included the overinflation of the business’s gross receipts, as well as the claim that the loan proceeds were for business purposes when, in fact, the defendants intended to use the money for personal purposes. Indeed, the entities either did not exist at all or earned far less money than BASHIR SCHOFIELD and his relatives represented.
For example, on about April 14, 2021, SCHOFIELD completed and submitted a false PPP loan application in the name of an entity he claimed to control, “Vison Six, LLC.” SCHOFIELD falsely stated in the application that SCHOFIELD’s gross income from Vison Six in 2019 was $100,000 and that the money would be used for business-related purposes. In fact, Vison Six was not incorporated until November 2020 and performed no business and had no gross receipts in 2019. As a result of the fraudulent application, SCHOFIELD received approximately $20,833. Additionally, SCHOFIELD and his relatives collectively submitted false applications for several other entities, including “AfroTouch, Inc.,” “Afromerica Touch 360, LLC,” and “Just Jocin.”
BASHIR SCHOFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing before Judge Guidry is scheduled for March 5 2024.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
Jefferson Parish Woman Sentenced for Defrauding Buyer of Personal Protective EquipmentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - CYNTHIA CARONNA, a resident of Jefferson Parish, was sentenced on November 28, 2023, for conspiring with her co-defendant, Frank LaBruzzo, and with a resident of the United Kingdom, to defraud a business that was seeking to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced CARONNA to five years’ probation, six months of home detention, and $1,012,500 in restitution.
CARONNA and the UK resident formed a business venture to offer the sale of PPE, and selected LaBruzzo to serve as the venture’s escrow agent. LaBruzzo (an attorney employed as an investigator with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office) was presented to would-be buyers of PPE, as a trustworthy escrow agent who would safeguard the buyer’s purchase funds in an escrow account until the PPE was satisfactorily delivered.
According to court records, the conspirators agreed that LaBruzzo would disburse the would-be buyer’s funds despite the would-be buyers having neither received PPE nor consented to the disbursements. The conspirators also agreed that each would receive portions of the would-be buyer’s funds without the would-be buyers’ knowledge or consent.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at
866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at:
https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form
This case was being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Being an Illegal Alien in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSE SANCHEZ-MORADEL, age 35, a native of Honduras, plead guilty on November 28, 2023 to being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on April 26, 2023, the Mandeville Police Department responded to a call by an individual who said that her ex-boyfriend, SANCHEZ-MORADEL, was trying to enter her residence in Mandeville, Louisiana. The Mandeville Police Department also learned that SANCHEZ-MORADEL drove a white truck. Police then saw a white 2016 Chevrolet Silverado leaving the area near the ex-girlfriend’s apartment complex. Mandeville Police then stopped the truck and detained the driver who was later confirmed to be SANCHEZ-MORADEL.
The visibly distressed ex-girlfriend told police that SANCHEZ-MORADEL forcibly entered her residence and subsequently fled in the white truck. After officers conducted a search of SANCHEZ-MORADEL incident to his arrest, they discovered a handgun magazine containing ten (10) .22 LR calliber rounds in his shorts pocket. Officers also found a Husky multi tool knife with a damaged blade tip. Officers then searched his vehicle and located a Glock Model G44, .22 LR caliber handgun inside the center console. This firearm was manufactured in another state and shipped in interstate commerce to Louisiana.
SANCHEZ-MORADEL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency and the Mandeville Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Slidell Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Conspiracy to Commit $250,000 Bank Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft Connection with Postal “Blue Box” TheftsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – RONALD S. RILEY, JR. (“RILEY”), age 28, of Slidell, Louisiana was sentenced for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Judge Wendy Vitter sentenced him to 54 months on Count 1 and 24 months on Count 2, that must be served consecutively to Count 1. RILEY was also ordered to pay $200 in mandatory special assessment fees. A hearing will be held on January 30, 2024 to determine specific restitution amounts due to the victims.
According to court documents, RILEY was involved in stealing mail from postal receptacles located in the Greater New Orleans area. Items stolen from the mail included monetary instruments and banking information that RILEY used to create fraudulent checks. These fraudulent checks were then used to defraud several federally insured financial institutions. RILEY also stole and used the identity of other persons to execute the scheme to defraud. Additionally, RILEY admitted to bank fraud of $250,000.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service, the Louisiana State Police, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit and Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 16, 2023, REGINALD HUMBLES, age 34, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). HUMBLES faces a sentence of up to10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. His sentencing is set for March 14, 2024.
On December 28, 2020, HUMBLES, a convicted felon, used a firearm to threaten a victim into giving HUMBLES a waste removal truck. After using the vehicle’s onboard camera system and GPS, law enforcement located it driving west on Interstate 12. After pursuit by the Causeway Police Department, Louisiana State Police, and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, the vehicle was eventually stopped. Following HUMBLES’s arrest, investigators located a firearm on the driver seat of the vehicle.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit .
Waggaman Man Sentenced for Federal Gun OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On November 15, 2023, U.S. District Judge Sarah Vance sentenced DEVYN ALLEN to 31 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
ALLEN was charged on December 3, 2021, in a one-count indictment with possession of a Springfield Model XD, nine-millimeter handgun while being a convicted felon. ALLEN will serve 31 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Distribution of Fentanyl and Weapons OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KENTRELL HUBBARD, age 24, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on November 17, 2023, in a three-count indictment for distribution of fentanyl and violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.
According to the indictment, HUBBARD is charged in Count 1 with distribution of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). He is charged in Count 2 with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). He is charged in Count 3 with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). According to the indictment, HUBBARD has a prior federal felony conviction for conspiracy to transport vehicles across state lines.
If convicted of Count 1, HUBBARD faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 2, he faces a minimum of five years up to a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must run consecutive to any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to five years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on Friday, November 17, 2023, KEVIN TYLER, age 46, was indicted for possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).
TYLER was pulled over during a traffic stop in Lafourche Parish. As a result of the traffic stop, Louisiana State Police Troopers recovered 11.7 kilograms of cocaine hidden within the engine compartment of the sports utility vehicle that he was driving .
If convicted, TYLER faces a minimum term of ten (10) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – ALEX SALOMON REYES-CHAVEZ, age 43, was indicted on November 17, 2023 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, ALEX SALOMON REYES-CHAVEZ, (“REYES-CHAVEZ”) reentered the United States after being previously deported on March 5, 2012. On October 24, 2023, federal authorities arrested REYES-CHAVEZ in Gretna, Louisiana as he was leaving the courthouse.
If convicted, REYES-CHAVEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans 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 Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Three Individuals Plead Guilty to Violating Federal Gun Control Act and Possessing Cars from Norfolk Southern RailyardRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – QUINTRELL BROWN, age 19, NICKIE WHITLEY, age 35, and ERIN MURTHIL, age 21, all residents of New Orleans, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to charges in a 20-count indictment.
BROWN pleaded guilty on November 14, 2023, to conspiracy to possess cars stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility (“Facility”), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371; possession of a car stolen from the Facility, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659; possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
According to court documents, BROWN was arrested in the French Quarter section of New Orleans on February 11, 2023. When NOPD officers attempted to stop him, he fled and threw a loaded Glock Model 19 handgun into a dumpster. When BROWN was apprehended, he had 60 tapentadol pills and over $2,500 cash in his pockets. Text messages from BROWN’s cell phone evidenced him selling tapentadol.
On March 27, 2023, several Ford vehicles were stolen from the Facility. That same day, BROWN performed internet searches for the exact models of Ford vehicles that were stolen. Although BROWN does not own a Ford vehicle, his cell phone connected to a “Ford Explorer” over 200 times between March 21 and April 3, 2023. BROWN was captured on surveillance video occupying a Ford Explorer Timberline on multiple occasions between March 27 and April 3, 2023.
WHITLEY and MURTHIL pleaded guilty on November 16, 2023. WHITLEY pleaded guilty to four counts, and MURTHIL pleaded guilty to two counts, of possessing a car stolen from the Facility in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659. WHITLEY additionally pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). MURTHIL additionally pleaded guilty to possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).
According to court documents, law enforcement tracked a vehicle stolen from the Facility to a residence in the Seventh Ward section of New Orleans. On March 29, 2023, a Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) camera captured WHITLEY, MURTHIL, and three others leaving the residence dressed in dark clothing with hoods. That morning, a number of vehicles were stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility, including a 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor, a 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks, and a 2023 Lincoln Aviator. Later on, WHITLEY returned to the residence driving the Ford F-150 Raptor stolen from the Facility only 35 minutes earlier. Thereafter, MURTHIL arrived at the residence driving the stolen Lincoln Aviator, that already had a stolen Louisiana military honors license plate affixed to it. That same day, a window-tinting company tinted the windows of all three stolen vehicles in front of the residence. Over the next six days, WHITLEY and MURTHIL were captured on RTCC camera driving or occupying several of vehicles stolen from the Facility.
Further, WHITLEY was also seen on camera possessing a stolen Glock Model 19x handgun. MURTHIL’s cell phone was seized and searched pursuant to a search warrant. The phone contained a picture of MURTHIL holding a Glock Model 17 handgun with a machinegun conversion device and drum magazine attached to it while sitting in the driver’s seat of the stolen Lincoln Aviator. The stolen Glock 19x handgun, the Glock Model 17 with the machinegun conversion device, and the drum magazine were all recovered from the Seventh Ward residence. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted a function test of the Glock Model 17, with the machinegun conversion device, and confirmed that it functioned as a machinegun.
BROWN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release on the conspiracy count.
BROWN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and a minimum of three years of supervised release, for possession with the intent to distribute tapentadol.
BROWN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, which is to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
BROWN, WHITLEY, and MURTHIL each face a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release, on each count of possessing a vehicle stolen from the Facility.
WHITLEY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
MURTHIL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release, for possessing a machinegun.
Each count also carries a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Woman Sentenced to 35 Months for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that CATHY LYNN HAMILTON was sentenced on November 15, 2023, after previously pleading guilty to bank robbery, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).
According to court records, on May 5, 2023, HAMILTON entered a JP Morgan Chase Bank, in New Orleans, and committed bank robbery.
United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced HAMILTON to 35 months of imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. HAMILTON must also pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy L. Bell of the General Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Multiple Federal Carjacking OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 14, 2023, KYREN WASHINGTON, age 20, of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to a five-count superseding bill of information for five separate carjackings in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1).
WASHINGTON faces a sentence of up to 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to 3 years of supervised release for each count. He also faces a mandatory special assessment fee of $500.00. Sentencing is set for February 27, 2024.
According to court documents, WASHINGTON was involved in five separate carjackings on September 29, October 2, October 4, and an attempted carjacking on October 10, 2023.
Four of the vehicles were recovered in the Algiers area of New Orleans. After the attempted carjacking, WASHINGTON was identified, and arrested by the New Orleans Police Department who learned that WASHINGTON had discarded a firearm and black backpack in the 1200 block of Poydras Ave.
Law enforcement retrieved the discarded black backpack and obtained a search warrant authorizing a search of the backpack. That search revealed two additional firearms and ammunition. Recovered were a Smith & Wesson Model M&P9, nine-millimeter and Glock Model 19X, nine-millimeter firearms along with a magazine loaded with ammunition. The discarded firearm was identified as a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
Metairie Woman Pleads Guilty to Heroin TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – EMILY SUSAN BREAUX, age 48, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana , pleaded guilty on November 15, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to conspiracy to distribute heroin, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on multiple occasions, a co-conspirator from California mailed half-kilogram quantities of heroin to BREAUX at her Metairie residence. BREAUX received the packages and gave them to her local New Orleans co-conspirators. On June 22, 2021, FBI agents seized a FedEx package containing 485.19 grams of heroin from BREAUX.
BREAUX faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Orleans Gang Task Force, with the assistance of the New Orleans Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, led the investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Multiple Federal Carjacking OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 14, 2023, KYREN WASHINGTON, age 20, of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to a five-count superseding bill of information for five separate carjackings in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1).
WASHINGTON faces a sentence of up to 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to 3 years of supervised release for each count. He also faces a mandatory special assessment fee of $500.00. Sentencing is set for February 27, 2024.
According to court documents, WASHINGTON was involved in five separate carjackings on September 29, October 2, October 4, and an attempted carjacking on October 10, 2023.
Four of the vehicles were recovered in the Algiers area of New Orleans. After the attempted carjacking, WASHINGTON was identified, and arrested by the New Orleans Police Department who learned that WASHINGTON had discarded a firearm and black backpack in the 1200 block of Poydras Ave.
Law enforcement retrieved the discarded black backpack and obtained a search warrant authorizing a search of the backpack. That search revealed two additional firearms and ammunition. Recovered were a Smith & Wesson Model M&P9, nine-millimeter and Glock Model 19X, nine-millimeter firearms along with a magazine loaded with ammunition. The discarded firearm was identified as a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
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New Orleans Man Indicted for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CYRUS ROLLINS, age 41, a resident of New Orleans, was charged on November 16, 2023 in a three-count indictment for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts that allegedly occurred on or about August 30, 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
Count 1 of the indictment charged ROLLINS with possession with the intent to distribute quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). For these offenses, he faces up to 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Count 2 charged ROLLINS with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). For this offense, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment, up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Count 3 charged ROLLINS with being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). For this offense, he faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For each count, ROLLINS also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Greg Kennedy of the Violent Crimes Unit.
Hammond Woman Pleads Guilty to Cares Act FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TRACIE L. MIXON, age 42, of Hammond, LA, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Susie Morgan to a bill of information for making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
On March 27, 2020, The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
According to court documents, MIXON made false statements on an SBA form to an approved lender on or about February 23, 2021, to fraudulently obtain a PPP loan. MIXON affirmed that she had not been previously convicted of federal program financial assistance fraud when, in truth, she pled guilty, in the Eastern District of Virginia, to conspiracy to commit federal student loan fraud and mail fraud in a scheme that involved stolen identities.
Sentencing will be on March 12, 2023. At that time, MIXON faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for her false statements. MIXON must also pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after conviction.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Slidell Man Sentenced to 33 Months Imprisonment for Manufacturing Machine Gun Conversion Devices and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on November 9, 2023, RENE LADMIRAULT, age 21, of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 33-months imprisonment after previously pleading guilty.
LADMIRAULT was a manufacturer of machine gun conversion devices, commonly known as “Glock switches.” These devices, when attached to Glock firearms, convert semi-automatic firearms to fully automatic firearms, or machine guns. LADMIRAULT manufactured the devices at his residence using a 3D-printer and a milling machine and used Instagram to sell them. After learning that LADMIRAULT was illegally manufacturing the devices, the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant at his residence. As the agents attempted to enter the residence, LADMIRAULT flushed a machine gun conversion device down his toilet to destroy the device and to avoid its seizure by the FBI.
After serving his term of imprisonment, LADMIRAULT will be supervised by U.S. Probation for two (2) years. LADMIRAULT must also pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $200.00.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.
Former Sewerage and Water Board Official Sentenced for TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JAMES ARNOLD was sentenced today for Theft from an Agency Receiving Federal Funds. United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced ARNOLD to four years of probation, 90 days of which are to be served under home confinement, and restitution in the amount of $108,290.
ARNOLD engaged in a theft scheme while employed as a Utility Services Administrator for the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (S&WB). Beginning in approximately 2012, and continuing until in or about November 2021, ARNOLD stole S&WB funds by causing the S&WB to issue plumbing permits when it had not received the fees required for the issuance of those permits. ARNOLD did this by instructing plumbers to provide him directly with payments for the fees. ARNOLD would then keep the payments for his personal use and cause the S&WB to issue the permits without the S&WB having received the required fees.
“The Arnold case is a prime example of the FBI's commitment to drag public corruption into the daylight, no matter how long it takes,” said Douglas A. Williams, Jr., Special Agent in Charge for FBI New Orleans. “Stealing from the New Orleans Sewerage & Water Board is by extension taking advantage of the very people who rely on its services every day.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Orleans Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Mailing Threatening CommunicationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 9, 2023, SHAUN CHAPMAN (“CHAPMAN”), age 38, pleaded guilty to mailing a threatening communication, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 876(c).
According to court documents, CHAPMAN mailed a letter to the Robert Nixon Federal Courthouse in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that contained threats to the President and Vice-President of the United States, Supreme Court justices, and Department of Justice employees. A U.S. Secret Service investigation revealed that the letter was mailed from the Orleans Justice Center where CHAPMAN was incarcerated on unrelated charges.
CHAPMAN faces a maximum term of ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to a three (3) year term of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Weapon and Drug ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 8, 2023, JUSTIN MORGAN, age 26, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Lance M. Africk to 97 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to as to three counts of a superseding indictment.
Count 1 charged MORGAN with possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(d). Count 2 charged MORGAN with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). Count 3 charged MORGAN with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
According to court documents, on February 10, 2022, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (“JPSO”) conducted a narcotics investigation in the Metairie Heights Apartment complex in Metairie, LA. Based on their observations, officers stopped a black Acura in which MORGAN and a co-defendant were riding. Subsequently, the JPSO obtained arrest warrants for both MORGAN and a co-defendant due to the discovery of narcotics and firearms that were located inside of MORGAN’s vehicle.
On March 25, 2022, JPSO officers arrested MORGAN and located a gun case in the trunk of his vehicle. The serial number on the gun case matched the serial number of the gun found in the rear seat of MORGAN’s vehicle on February 10, 2022. The firearm was also swabbed for DNA. The analysis concluded that MORGAN’s DNA was present on the firearm.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to False Statements on an Individual Tax ReturnRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHRISTOPHER COBURN (“COBURN”), age 51, of New Orleans, pled guilty to a bill of information charging him with making false statements on an individual tax return, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(1).
According to court records, COBURN under-reported his tax preparation business income on his individual tax returns by approximately $104,156.06 for tax years 2016 through 2018. This underreporting caused a loss of approximately $29,781 to the Internal Revenue Service. COBURN faces a maximum sentence of three (3) years of imprisonment, up to one (1) year of supervised release, a fine of up to $100,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. COBURN agreed both to pay $29,781 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service and to be permanently enjoined from preparing federal tax returns for others. United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion set sentencing in this matter for March 12, 2023.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office acknowledges the work of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations on this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit.
Eight New Orleans Residents Indicted for Federal Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on June 9, 2023, JONATHAN GONZALEZ, age 24, ANTHONY ROMAN, age 24, DARNELL MELTON, age 26, SAUL REED, age 32, MARK WILLIAMS, age 22, RONALD JOHNSON, age 25, KEVIN TYLER, III, age 25, and DERRICK BRUMFIELD, age 22, all residents of New Orleans, Louisiana were indicted in a 15-count second superseding indictment, that was unsealed on November 3, 2023.
GONZALEZ, ROMAN, MELTON, WILLIAMS, JOHNSON, TYLER, III, and BRUMFIELD are charged in Count 1 with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A)-(D), 841(b)(2), and Section 846. The maximum penalties for this count vary as to each defendant. GONZALEZ, WILLIAMS, and MELTON face a maximum of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. ROMAN and JOHNSON face a minimum of five years up to 40 years in prison, a maximum $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release. TYLER, III faces a minimum of 10 years up to life in prison, a maximum $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release.
The same defendants, with the exception of MELTON, are charged in Count 2 with conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o). The maximum penalties for this count are 20 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.
GONZALEZ, ROMAN, WILLIAMS, JOHNSON, TYLER, III, and REED are variously charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A)-(D), and 841(b)(2) in Counts 3, 6, 8, 10, and 12. GONZALEZ, WILLIAMS, and REED face a maximum of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. ROMAN, JOHNSON, and TYLER, III face a minimum of five years up to 40 years in prison, a maximum $5,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release.
MELTON, REED, and JOHNSON are charged with being felons in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8) in Counts 7, 9, and 15, respectively. The maximum penalties for each of these counts is 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
GONZALEZ, ROMAN, WILLIAMS, JOHNSON, and TYLER, III are variously charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c) in Counts 4, 11, and 13. Each of these counts carries a minimum of five years and up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to any other sentence, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.
ROMAN, JOHNSON, and TYLER, III are charged in Count 14, with using and maintaining a drug premises, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856(a)(1). The maximum penalties for this court are 20 years in prison, a $500,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
GONZALEZ and ROMAN are charged in Count 5, with possessing a vehicle stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659. The maximum penalties for this count are 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
Each individual count also carries a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the superseding indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that today, PERCY SMITH, age 45, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier to 63 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to three counts of a seven-count superseding indictment.
The superseding indictment charged SMITH in Counts 1 and 2 with possessing a firearm, on both, June 19 and June 30, 2021, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
According to court documents, on June 19, 2021, NOPD responded to a call of a domestic abuse battery and saw SMITH with a duffle bag containing a firearm. On June 30, 2021, SMITH was arrested pursuant to a warrant for domestic abuse battery and aggravated assault. During his arrest, officers saw SMITH drop a firearm. SMITH is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing these weapons.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit .
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – AARON HENDERSON, age 26, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on November 1, 2023 before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance, to possession a firearm after being convicted of a felony, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
HENDERSON, a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms, came to the attention of law enforcement after the New Orleans Police Child Abuse Unit received a video depicting him in a room with a three-year-old boy, while armed with a Draco 7.62 mm rifle, and rapping song lyrics. HENDERSON encouraged the three-year-old to pick up a handgun located on a bed. As a result, the child picked up the gun and waived it around.
HENDERSON faces up to fifteen years in prison and up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine. He also faces a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. Sentencing is set for February 21, 2024 at 10:30 a.m. before Judge Vance.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.
Lutcher Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Machine GunRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 2, 2023, TYKI CLAYTON, age 21, of Lutcher, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).
CLAYTON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
According to public records, on March 28, 2022, CLAYTON was the passenger in a vehicle driving in Lutcher, LA. When CLAYTON’s vehicle did not come to a full stop at an intersection, a St. James Parish deputy initiated a lawful traffic stop. The deputy approached the vehicle and found CLAYTON in the front passenger seat reaching between his legs into a backpack. The driver stated that she did not have her license. After receiving CLAYTON’s driver’s license information, the deputy learned that CLAYTON had an outstanding arrest warrant. After searching the vehicle, the deputy recovered a Glock firearm from the backpack located between CLAYTON’s legs. CLAYTON admitted knowing that the firearm was equipped with an auto-sear making it a fully automatic machinegun.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun track violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office. United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit handled the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on November 7, 2023 HUGO BRIAN FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS (“FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS”), age 27, plead guilty on November 7, 2023 to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to court documents, FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS reentered the United States after being previously deported on April 26, 2019. On March 31, 2023, FUENTES-EGUIGURENS was arrested by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office on March 31, 2023 and found to be unlawfully present in the United States by United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It was also discovered that FUENTES-EGUIGURENS had previous convictions for simple escape, burglary and resisting arrest by using a false identification.
FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Role in Large Scale Cocaine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – On November 2, 2023, United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced HAKIM SHABAZZ, age 46, of New Orleans, for conspiring to violate the Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
Judge Zainey sentenced SHABAZZ to 60 months in the Bureau of Prisons to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. He also ordered SHABAZZ to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
According to court records, the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office stopped an individual traveling from New Orleans to Houston on Interstate 10 and found $948,174 in cash in the vehicle, as well as several cell phones. Those phones contained text messages about drug trafficking, as well as ledgers. By analyzing text messages and phone records, agents determined that SHABAZZ, who operated an auto body shop, was receiving cocaine shipments, that were hidden in gas canisters, and distributing them throughout New Orleans. SHABAZZ admitted that the conspiracy involved between 50 and 150 kilograms of cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 2, 2023, JONATH WILLIAMSON, age 39, pled guilty to Counts 1 through 4 of an indictment that charged him with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) (Count 1); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Count 2); being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g) and 924(a)(8) (Count 3); and, possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(k) and 924(a)(1)(B )(Count 4).
As to Count 1, WILLIAMSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release. As to Count 2, WILLIAMSON faces a term of imprisonment between five years up to life imprisonment, which must run consecutive to any other sentence, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release. As to Count 3, WILLIAMSON faces a term of imprisonment of up to fifteen years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. As to Count 4, WILLIAMSON faces a term of imprisonment up to five years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. As to each count, WILLIAMSON also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. WILLIAMSON is set for sentencing on February 27, 2024.
According to court documents, on March 16, 2023, members of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Special Response Team (SRT), NOPD Violent Crime Abatement Investigative Team (VCAIT), and Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force (NOVCTF), executed a search warrant at a location on Camelia Street, in New Orleans. WILLIAMSON was present at the time of the warrant’s execution and was arrested based on outstanding NOPD warrants for theft. A search of WILLIAMSON revealed distributable amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl in seven small bags in his front pocket. Additionally, WILLIAMSON was found in possession of over $2,900 in U.S currency, drug paraphernalia, and multiple keys and key fobs.
Among the items in WILLIAMSON’s possession was the key fob to a black Dodge Ram truck on the scene. Inside the vehicle, agents located two firearms: a stolen Smith & Wesson Model M&P M2.0, .40 caliber pistol and a Palmetto Armory Model PA-15, 5.56 caliber rifle, with an obliterated serial number. Also inside of the vehicle were quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl, as well as drug paraphernalia consistent with distribution.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Jury Convicts Hospice Owner for Defrauding MedicareRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 6, 2023, a federal jury convicted SHIVA AKULA, age 67, of New Orleans, of health care fraud related to fraudulent claims billed to Medicare. AKULA owned and oversaw the day-to-day operations of Canon Healthcare, LLC, a hospice facility with offices in the New Orleans area, Baton Rouge, Covington, and Gulfport, Mississippi. Between January 2013 and December 2019, Canon’s New Orleans area office billed Medicare approximately $62 million and was paid approximately $47 million.
The jury convicted AKULA on all 23 counts of health care fraud charged in the indictment. Counts 1 through 8 involved AKULA’s overbilling for hospice patients for General Inpatient (“GIP”) services to fraudulently maximize reimbursement from Medicare. By improperly billing for GIP, AKULA fraudulently caused Medicare to pay approximately $600 more per patient, per day, than it would have for the appropriate level of care, for multiple months per patient. Moreover, many of the patients whose claims were fraudulently billed to Medicare were not hospice eligible, meaning any Medicare hospice payments for these patients were improper. Between January 2013 and August 2017, AKULA billed over 2,800 monthly claims for GIP billing, totaling approximately $15.3 million.
Additionally, the jury convicted AKULA for multiple counts related to manipulating Medicare billing codes, known as Common Procedural Terminology (“CPT”) codes. Counts 9 through 11 involved AKULA’s fraudulent billing for physician services under CPT code 99236. AKULA fraudulently billed Medicare for these services, despite such services being medically unnecessary, and despite their inclusion in the daily hospice benefit Canon already received for its patients. Between January 2013 and August 2017, AKULA submitted approximately 1,053 claims for CPT code 99236 and was paid approximately $223,601 by Medicare.
Counts 12 through 17 involved AKULA’s fraudulent billing of History and Physical forms under CPT code 99233. AKULA fraudulently billed Medicare for these forms, despite their being hand-copied by a member of AKULA’s family based on work performed by referring physicians not employed by Canon, and despite their being unbillable in the hospice setting. Between January 2013 and August 2017, AKULA submitted approximately 23,000 claims to Medicare for CPT code 99233 and was paid approximately $2,281,251.
Finally, Counts 18 through 23 involved AKULA’s fraudulent billing for home visits under CPT code 99350. AKULA fraudulently billed Medicare for visits under a physician’s name, even though they were performed by a nurse practitioner, the patients were not hospice eligible, and the services were included in the daily hospice benefit Canon already received for its patients. Between January 2013 and August 2017, AKULA submitted claims to Medicare for approximately 1,949 home visits using CPT code 99350 and was paid approximately $316,384.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk presided over the five-day trial during which the government called fifteen witnesses and presented approximately 290 exhibits.
As to each of the 23 counts of health care fraud, AKULA may receive a maximum sentence of ten years in prison, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Judge Africk scheduled sentencing in this case for February 21, 2024, at 2:00 p.m.
“Health care fraud schemes such as these profoundly impact our nation, not only because of the monetary loss triggered by the fraud, but also by the damaging erosion of public trust”, said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. “Our office, along with our investigative partners, will continue to work diligently to preserve taxpayer confidence in our medical institutions and seek justice for all victims of fraud.”
“Mr. Akula took advantage of the American taxpayer by billing for services that weren’t medically necessary, and in some cases, didn’t happen at all,” said Douglas A. Williams, Jr., Special Agent in Charge for FBI New Orleans. “The FBI will continue its work to uncover fraudulent schemes like this that take advantage of people when they are most vulnerable.”
“A federal jury correctly found Shiva Akula, MD guilty on all 23 counts of health care fraud,” said Jason E. Meadows, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Medical providers who are motivated by greed place our most vulnerable citizens at risk, and HHS-OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and investigate greedy providers who defraud our federal health care programs.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, and the Louisiana Department of Justice, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn McHugh and J. Ryan McLaren, an attorney in the Appellate Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on October 31, 2023, HARRY BANKS, age 21, of New Orleans, plead guilty to Counts 1, 2, and 3 of a superseding indictment. Count 1 charged BANKS with conspiring to distribute Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(b)(1)(C) and Title 21, United States Code, Section 846. Count 2 charged BANKS with conspiring to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o). Count 3 charged BANKS with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
For Count 1, BANKS faces up to (20) twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least (3) three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
For Count 2, BANKS faces up to (20) twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to (3) three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
For Count 3, BANKS faces a minimum of (5) five years in prison up to life in prison, to be run consecutive to all other counts, a fine of up to $250,000, up to (3) three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to public records, on December 6, 2022, Bureau of Alcohol. Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) Agents were conducting surveillance of the 1900 block of Frenchmen Street in New Orleans, in an unrelated investigation and saw an individual, later identified as Jerome Shaquille Wilson. Wilson was driving a white Dodge Challenger with one passenger, who was later identified as Gerroy Toca. Agents subsequently saw Toca Wilson, and BANKS engaged in apparent illegal narcotics transactions, while in possession of firearms. Agents later saw BANKS enter the white Dodge Challenger and exit with a pistol in his left hand. BANKS then appeared to conceal the firearm in his waistband. ATF Agents notified the New Orleans Police Department who detained Toca and BANKS. BANKS was found in possession of approximately 6.7 grams of suspected fentanyl and a Smith & Wesson Model M&P 40 2.0M, .40 caliber pistol, both of which were concealed in his waistband. By pleading guilty, BANKS admitted that he and his co-defendants were selling illegal drugs, which later tested positive for fentanyl and were armed with firearms.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun track violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Mike Trummel of the Violent Crimes Unit.
St. Charles Parish Man Indicted for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – AMARYD DOWNING, age 37, a resident of Hahnville, Louisiana, was charged on November 2, 2023, in a three-count indictment, with distribution of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on May 8, 2023, May 11, 2023, and May 22, 2023, DOWNING distributed a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. If convicted, DOWNING faces, as to each count, a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Woman Sentenced for Transmitting Threatening CommunicationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ZANDRA ELLIS, age 34, of New Orleans, was sentenced on October 31, 2023, to eighteen (18) months imprisonment by the U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. ELLIS previously pleaded guilty to transmitting threatening communications in interstate commerce in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c).
According to court documents, in June 2022, ELLIS submitted a request to a website to have a romantic rival killed. The website was, in fact, a parody website complete with its own web-based intake form for would-be solicitors to fill out, in their own words, the who, what, when, where, and why for requested services. The site boasts its own fictitious privacy statement known as HIPPA (Hitman Information Privacy & Protection Act of 1964) and is linked directly to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov). On July 5, 2022, ELLIS, communicated with an FBI undercover agent who was posing as a hitman. In those text message exchanges, ELLIS confirmed the ongoing feud with a romantic rival, reiterated her request to have that person killed, and agreed to pay the “hitman” $1,000. When ELLIS met the undercover agent on July 6, 2022, she provided a $100 down payment after which she was arrested. At the time of her arrest, ELLIS possessed a loaded Ruger .380 pistol.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, ELLIS will serve three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit.
Honduran Native Pleads Guilty to Being an Illegal Alien in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FRANKLYN ORELLANO-VELASQUEZ, a/k/a “Rony Aguilera,” a/k/a “Rochy Gutierrez,” age 19, a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty on November 2, 2023, to an indictment charging him with being an illegal alien in possession of ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A).
According to court records, ORELLANO-VELASQUEZ, an alien illegally present in the United States, was found in possession of approximately 40 live .223 caliber rounds. ORELLANO-VELASQUEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Sentencing is currently scheduled for February 21, 2023, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
The case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran Citizen Charged with Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JUAN JOSUE CUEVAR-ALVARADO, 18, a native of Honduras, was indicted on November 2, 2023 for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, on or about September 15, 2023, CUEVAR, an alien present illegally in the United States, was found in possession of a .22 caliber revolver and a nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol.
If convicted, CUEVAR faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans 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 Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Former USPS Employee Indicted for Stealing Contents of U.S. MailRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On November 2, 2023, SONIA MILLER, age 53, a resident of New Orleans, was charged in a three-count indictment for theft of mail by a postal employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709 and delay or destruction of mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. For each count, she faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, on or about March 14, 2023, and April 11, 2023, MILLER opened and removed the contents of several parcels of mail entrusted to her as a postal carrier.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.