Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
New Orleans Man Sentenced on Federal Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – QUENDRICK BAILEY, age 27, a resident of New Orleans, LA, was sentenced on May 25, 2023 by U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier to 30 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee in connection with a one-count indictment pending against him, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
BAILEY was indicted for possessing a firearm on June 12, 2022, as a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
BAILEY was involved in a shooting that took place on June 12, 2022. After the shooting, BAILEY drove to a local Winn-Dixie where he crashed and subsequently left his vehicle. He then entered the Winn-Dixie, discarded his gun in a box full of bouncy balls meant for children and fled the scene. Later, police were able to arrest BAILEY for being a felon in possession of a 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 .
Chalmette Pharmacist Sentenced to 72 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEITH WILKINSON, a pharmacist who owned and operated Wilkinson Family Pharmacy located in St. Bernard Parish, was sentenced on May 24, 2023 to serve 72 months in custody for his role in a conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and money laundering.
According to the bill of information, beginning prior to 2014 and continuing until the filing of the bill of information on September 14, 2018, WILKINSON and others conspired to dispense, outside the scope of his professional practice and not for a legitimate medical purpose, quantities of controlled substances. WILKINSON also committed money laundering using criminally derived proceeds.
At his sentencing on Wednesday May 24, 2023, WILKINSON was sentenced to 72 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
This prosecution was part of an 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Marshals Service, and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh of the Financial Crimes Unit.
Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm and Drug Trafficking Charges Stemming from New Orleans Hotel ShootoutRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRIAN JACOB, age 23, from New Orleans, pled guilty to various firearm and drug charges stemming from his participation in a December 28, 2020, shootout at the Jung Hotel on Canal Street, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. On May 23, 2023, JACOB pled guilty to Counts 1, 2, and 3 of the superseding bill of information, that charged him with possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (Count 1); participating in a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute quantities of marijuana (Count 2); and illegally maintaining a drug involved premises (Count 3).
JACOB will be sentenced on September 19, 2023, and faces the following sentences:
For Count 1, he will face a mandatory minimum of 5 years and a maximum of life in prison, not more than 5 years of supervised release, and not more than a $250,000.00 fine, pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). Any prison sentence imposed in connection with this count must be served consecutively to any other prison sentence imposed in connection with this case.
For Count 2, he will face a maximum of 5 years in prison, at least two years of supervised release, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00 pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(b)(1)(D); and
For Count 3, he will face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and not more than a $500,000.00 fine, pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Section 856(a).
Each count also carries 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. Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crime Unit are in charge of the prosecution.
Jefferson Parish Man Pleads Guilty for Distribution of Methamphetamine and Maintaining a Drug PremisesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –On May 18, 2023, NGHIA LE (“LE”), age 37, of Westwego, pleaded guilty as charged to all counts with which he was charged in a superseding indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
Count 1 charged LE with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. Count 3 charged LE with distribution and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2. Count 4 charged LE with distribution of methamphetamine and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2. Count 8 charged LE with using or maintaining a drug premises in violation of 21 U.S.C § 856(a)(1) and 18 U.S.C § 2. Count 9 charged LE with possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D). Count 10 charged LE with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C §§ 924(c)(1)(A)(i) and 2. Count 11 charged LE with distribution of marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D).
According to public records, LE utilized a motorcycle shop in New Orleans East to distribute methamphetamine on numerous occasions in 2021. LE sold over a pound and a half of methamphetamine to undercover agents and agreed to sell an additional 5 pounds of methamphetamine before he was arrested. Additionally, in 2020, LE also possessed over 45 pounds of marijuana, along with 5 firearms, intending to use those firearms to sell the marijuana.
As to Counts 1, 3, and 4, the minimum penalty includes a term of imprisonment of 10 years up to a maximum term of life, a fine of up to $10 million, and at least 5 years of supervised release.
As to Count 8, the maximum penalty includes a term of imprisonment of 20 years, a fine up to $500,000 and up to 3 years of supervised release.
As to Counts 9 and 11, the maximum penalty includes a term of imprisonment of 5 years, a fine up to $250,000 and at least 2 years of supervised release.
As to Count 10, the minimum penalty includes a term of imprisonment of 5 years, a maximum term of life, a fine up to $250,000 and up to 5 years of supervised release.
As to each count, LE faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
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.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit handled the prosecution.
Gibson Man Sentenced for Federal Conspiracy to Stage Automobile AccidentsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Yesterday, LARRY PICOU (“PICOU”), age 57, of Gibson, Louisiana, was sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, PICOU falsely claimed he was a passenger in a car that was struck by a tractor-trailer on May 11, 2017. In fact, PICOU conspired with others to intentionally collide with a tractor-trailer in the area of Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road in New Orleans. After the intentional collision, PICOU and his other co-conspirators made a false police report, lied in depositions, and filed fraudulent lawsuits falsely claiming that the tractor-trailer was at fault. This scheme caused the insurance company for the tractor-trailer to pay over $140,000.00 in settlement funds.
U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced PICOU to serve a term of five (5) years’ probation. PICOU was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $200,963.59 and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria M. Carboni, Edward Rivera, and Brandon S. Long, all of the Financial Crimes Unit and Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
Four Men from Plaquemines and Saint Tammany Parishes Indicted for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DWAN RILEY, age 37, CHRISTOPHER GLASS, age 45, RODERICK PARKER, age 52, residents of Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, and HERBERT RICHARDSON, age 51, a Slidell, Louisiana resident, were charged on April 28, 2023, in a sealed three-count indictment by a federal grand jury, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
Count 1 charged RICHARDSON and RILEY with conspiracy to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, a quantity of heroin, and a quantity of cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. For this offense, they face a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of five years, up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Count 1 also charged GLASS and PARKER with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. For this offense, they face up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Count 2 charged RICHARDSON with possession with intent to distribute quantities of fentanyl and heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). For this offense, he faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
Count 3 charged RICHARDSON with being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). For this offense, he faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.
For each of the counts in which a defendant is charged, he faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendants 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.
This case was investigated by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration and Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
Former Sewage and Water Board Official Charged with Federal TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the filing of a bill of information against JAMES ARNOLD, a former Utility Services Administrator for the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans.
ARNOLD is accused of stealing cash that belonged to the Sewerage and Water Board. The bill of information alleges that ARNOLD would instruct plumbers to provide him with payments for plumbing permits and that ARNOLD would keep the payments for his own use.
The charged offense of Theft From an Agency Receiving Federal Funds is punishable by up to ten years’ imprisonment followed by up to three years’ supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the bill of information is merely a charge and that the defendant’s guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is 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.
Bridge City Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Machine Gun and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that RENE LADMIRAULT, age 21, a resident of Bridge City, Louisiana, pled guilty to a two-count federal indictment .
In Count 1, LADMIRAULT was charged with Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(o)(1) and 924(a)(2). For this charge, LADMIRAULT faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of supervised release of up to 3 years.
In Count 2, LADMIRAULT was charged with Obstruction of Justice, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1512(c)(1). For this charge, LADMIRAULT faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of supervised release of up to 3 years. For each count, LADMIRAULT faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court records, beginning in January 2022, the Federal Bureau of Investigation New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force (“FBI NOVCTF”) and the New Orleans Police Department Violent Crime Abatement Investigation Team (“NOPD VCAIT”) initiated an investigation into the proliferation of machine gun conversion devices. These devices are commonly referred to as “Glock switches” or “auto sears.”
Law enforcement officers initially identified LADMIRAULT as a manufacturer of machine gun conversion devices in February 2022 through the execution of a search warrant of LADMIRAULT’s Instagram account. While reviewing LADMIRAULT’s account, officers located numerous text messages referencing the sale of the machine gun conversion devices.
On August 10, 2022, a federal search warrant was executed at LADMIRAULT’s residence. LADMIRAULT was inside the residence when FBI agents arrived and, in response, LADMIRAULT flushed a conversion device down the toilet to conceal the device from the FBI. During the search, agents located, a vertical CNC milling machine, and a box containing two black pieces of plastic, items believed to be used in the manufacturing of machine gun conversion devices. LADMIRAULT admitted to manufacturing 3D printed machine gun conversion devices, which he sold for approximately $100.00. LADMIRAULT also admitted to having manufactured the broken conversion device located inside of his residence.
United States District Judge, Carl J. Barbier, will sentence LADMIRAULT on September 14, 2023.
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. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.
Two Plead Guilty to Federal Wire Fraud Connected to Scheme to Defraud the Department of Veteran AffairsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JAMES “JAY” SINYARD, age 61, and MARY “GIGI” SINYARD, age 58, have each pled guilty in federal court relating to their roles in a wire fraud scheme to defraud the Department of Veterans Affairs.
JAMES SINYARD and MARY SINYARD pled guilty on May 18, 2023 before Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to a one count bill of information charging them with wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.
According to the bill of information, VetAttend of Jackson was located in Jackson, Mississippi. Beginning on or about April 2013 and continuing until at least December 2020, the SINYARDS did knowingly devise a scheme to defraud the Department of Veterans Affairs by means of materially false and fraudulent pretenses, representations, and promises, by creating false affidavits claiming services had been provided by VetAttend to veterans in need of home aid and attendance.
To effectuate this scheme, the SINYARDs submitted over one hundred applications for veterans and/or their surviving spouses to the Department of Veterans Affairs, falsely indicating that VetAttend of Jackson was already providing services to these veterans. As a result of these fictitious affidavits, from approximately August 2014 to approximately December 2020, the VA issued funds to over 70 veterans and/or their surviving spouses from whom VetAttend of Jackson misappropriated approximately $2,136,329.68 in fraudulent funds relating to the false affidavits of services provided.
“Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message to those who would exploit veterans to commit fraud that they will be investigated and held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Kris Raper with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s South-Central Field Office.
The Court set sentencing of JAMES SINYARD and MARY SINYARD for September 28, 2023.
Each defendant faces a possible maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee .
The U.S. Attorney’s Office praised the work of the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General.
The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh, Financial Crimes Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Carjacking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARIO COUSAN, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on May 18, 2023, to 147 months imprisonment by Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, after pleading guilty to carjacking and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on January 10, 2022, COUSAN, armed with a Glock, nine millimeter pistol, carjacked a victim as they exited the Dollar Tree on Morrison Road in New Orleans. As to the carjacking charge, the Court sentenced COUSAN to a sixty-three (63) month term of imprisonment and ordered him to pay restitution in the amount of $11,200.00. For brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, the Court sentenced COUSAN to an eighty-four (84) month term of imprisonment, to be served consecutively. Additionally, COUSAN will serve a three (3) year term of supervised release and pay a $200 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Greg Kennedy of the Violent Crimes Unit handled the prosecution.
Maryland Resident Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud After Preparing and Submitting Fraudulent Applications for Cares Act Financial AssistanceRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SIEDAH ELEY, age 30, a resident of Houston, Texas, and formerly a resident of Columbia, Maryland, pled guilty before United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to a one-count bill of information charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. The charge stems from ELEY’S 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, ELEY used both word-of-mouth and text message contacts to fraudulently solicit individuals interested in obtaining money from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) program with her assistance. When someone expressed interest, ELEY requested the following information from the applicant: the applicant’s name, address, social security, and phone number, a copy of the front and back of the applicant’s driver’s license, a bank statement from 2020, and the routing and account number for the applicant’s bank account. ELEY then created a false and fraudulent loan application. Among the false representations ELEY included in the pertinent forms was that the applicant had a sole proprietorship in the beauty industry and generated substantial income from those businesses. ELEY also submitted financial numbers that overstated the gross receipts, expenses, and net income for the business, which resulted in the creation of a false federal tax Form 1040, Schedule C by the online portal that accepted and processed the application. In several instances, where the applicant received minimal income from the beauty business, ELEY knowingly and falsely inflated the amount of income. Each of the above-described false representations constituted a misstatement that was material to the determination of the eligibility of the applicant and the loan amount the applicant would receive.
Once the loan was paid to the applicant, ELEY charged some applicants up to $5,000.00 for preparing and submitting the fraudulent PPP application. ELEY used this scheme to file her own fraudulent application and applications for at least seven (7) co-conspirators, which resulted in a total loss to the Small Business Association of approximately $166,656.
ELEY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) 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 Lemelle has been scheduled for September 20, 2023.
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 United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
Jefferson Parish Man Charged with Federal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA. - KEVIN HAMILTON, age 27, of Marrero, LA, was indicted on May 19, 2023 on a single count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, HAMILTON possessed a firearm in the French Quarter despite being prohibited from doing such due to previous felony convictions. If convicted, HAMILTON faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 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 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 Louisiana State Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
Grand Jury Indicts New Orleans Man for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – NAIROBI DAVIS, age 33, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on May 19, 2023 on one (1) count of Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Fentanyl, and Marijuana in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846 and one (1) count of Conspiracy to Possess Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, DAVIS did knowingly and intentionally conspire with other persons, to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. For this charge, DAVIS could face up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release.
Additionally, according to the indictment, DAVIS conspired with other persons to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. For this charge, DAVIS could face up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.
As to each count , DAVIS faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
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.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crimes Unit.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Man for Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On Friday, May 19, 2023, MARCUS THEODORE, age 31, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged in a four-count indictment by a federal grand jury for violations of the Federal Gun Control and Controlled Substances Acts, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
THEODORE is charged in Count 1 with conspiring to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute four hundred grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846. THEODORE is charged in Count 2 with possession with the intent to distribute forty grams or more of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B). In Count 3, THEODORE is charged 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). In Count 4, THEODORE is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). The indictment also alleges that THEODORE has a prior serious violent felony conviction, for manslaughter, that increases his potential punishment on the drug charges.
If convicted of Count 1, THEODORE faces a mandatory minimum penalty of fifteen years up to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, up to a $20,000,000 fine, and at least 10 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 2, THEODORE faces a mandatory minimum penalty of ten years up to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, up to a $8,000,000 fine, and at least 8 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, THEODORE faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to life imprisonment, which is to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 4, THEODORE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each count, THEODORE also faces payment of 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit .
Amite Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Dogfighting ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On May 17, 2023, DAVID GUIDRY, age 48, a resident of Amite, Louisiana, pled guilty to Count Three of a seven-count indictment, charging him with possession of an animal for an animal fighting venture, in violation of Title 7, United States Code, Section 2156(b), Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2 and 49(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
GUIDRY faces a maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release up to 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court records, in 2017, federal and state law enforcement investigated narcotics-trafficking in the Eastern and Middle Districts of Louisiana. In the summer of 2017, an investigation led law enforcement to information that GUIDRY was hosting dogfights at his residence in Independence, Louisiana.
On October 24, 2017, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at GUIDRY’s residence, in Independence, Louisiana. During the search, law enforcement discovered that GUIDRY possessed seven pit bull-type dogs that were restrained using heavy chains and isolated from one another, a “break stick,” a device used by dogfighters to pry open the jaw of a dog involved in a dogfight, a veterinary antibiotic intended for large farm animals, and a syringe. After being advised of his legal rights, GUIDRY consented to an interview and admitted ownership of the seven, pit bull-type dogs. GUIDRY forfeited ownership of the dogs.
United States District Judge, Jane Triche Milazzo, will sentence GUIDRY on September 6, 2023.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. It is being prosecuted by Matthew Evans of the U.S. Department of Justice, Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit .
Slidell Man Indicted for Violations of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – RODERICK WILLIAMS, age 27, of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged on May 19, 2023 in a three-count indictment for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, WILLIAMS possessed firearms on three separate occasions. WILLIAMS was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to previous felony convictions. If convicted as to Count 1, WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted as to Counts 2 and 3, WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment as to each count. Each count also requires payment of a mandatory $100 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 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. This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crimes Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Role in Federal Car Theft RingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – GREGORY BUTLER (“BUTLER”), age 37, was sentenced on May 18, 2023, for conspiring to transport and sell stolen vehicles in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 371, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, BUTLER and his co-conspirators stole cars from car dealerships and rental car facilities in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and George. After the cards were stolen, BUTLER and his co-conspirators retitled the cards under fraudulent Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINS) with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles. After the cars were retitled and cloned with fraudulent VINS, the defendants resold the cars to buyers in the New Orleans metro area at discounted prices.
U.S. District Court Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown sentenced BUTLER to serve one year and one day in prison, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release and imposed a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. The court also set a restitution hearing for June 15, 2023.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, the Louisiana State Police, the D’Iberville Police Department, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Spiro G. Latsis and Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEITH BOURGEOIS pled guilty on May 18, 2023 to violating the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts before United States District Judge Eldon Fallon, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, on April 21, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant of BOURGEOIS’s residence. During the search, agents seized drug paraphernalia from the apartment, including scales, packaging material, and razor blades. Agents also seized 27.054 grams of cocaine base and .645 grams of fentanyl from inside the apartment. Law enforcement also seized four firearms, several boxes of ammunition, and several thousand dollars in cash.
BOURGEOIS pled guilty to Count 1 of the superseding bill of information, that charged him with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). BOURGEOIS also pled guilty to Count 2, that charged him 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).
For Count 1, BOURGEOIS faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a period of at least 3 years of supervised release. For Count 2, BOURGEOIS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. For each count, BOURGEOIS also faces payment of $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.
The case was investigated by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih, Melissa Bücher, Rachal Cassagne, and Lynn Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 17, 2023, KENDALL THEARD, age 26, resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to one count of a four-count indictment for drug violations. Count 1 charges THEARD with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. THEARD’s sentencing is set for September 6, 2023.
In Count 1 of the indictment, THEARD is charged with possession with the intent to distribute marijuana in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D). THEARD faces a maximum sentence of 5 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of at least 2 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. Additionally, in Count 1, THEARD is charged with possession with the intent to distribute cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). THEARD faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, a period of at least 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
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.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, as well as the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Jefferson Parish Man for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that a federal grand jury indicted TIMOTHY BLAYLOCK, age 51, a resident of Marrero, Louisiana, for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act.
According to court documents, TIMOTHY BLAYLOCK, is charged in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
If convicted of Count 1, BLAYLOCK faces a minimum of 5 years up to a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
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 St. James Parish Sherriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and J. Benjamin Myers.
California Woman Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LORRAINE SANCHEZ VALDEZ, age 31, of Covina, California, was sentenced on May 17, 2023, to 57 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle, after pleading guilty to a one-count superseding bill of information that charged her with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, SANCHEZ VALDEZ conspired with others to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine within the Eastern District of Louisiana and elsewhere on or about May 15, 2021 and continuing to on or about June 7, 2021.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana State Police, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Two Men Plead Guilty to Large Scale Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that HAKIM SHABAZZ, age 46, of New Orleans, and RENE WASHINGTON, age 54, of Houston, pleaded guilty on May 16, 2023 before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to violating the Controlled Substances Act.
According to court records, law enforcement officers stopped WASHINGTON in Calcasieu Parish as he traveled from New Orleans to Houston on Interstate 10. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office officers seized $948,174 from WASHINGTON’S vehicle, in addition to several cell phones. Those phones contained text messages about drug trafficking, as well as ledgers. DEA agents in New Orleans executed a search warrant at a business where Washington visited shortly before leaving for Houston and found almost 250 grams of crack cocaine and another $84,803 in cash. By analyzing text messages and phone records, agents determined that SHABAZZ, who operated an auto body shop, was receiving the shipments of cocaine. Both men admitted that their conspiracy involved between 50 and 150 kilograms of cocaine.
Sentencing is set for September 5, 2023. SHABAZZ and WASHINGTON each face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. The count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
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.
Terrebonne Parish Meth Dealer Sentenced to Serve 192 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SPENCER ROUNDS, JR., a/k/a “BoBoy,” age 29, of Gray, La., was sentenced on May 17, 2023 to serve 192 months imprisonment followed by five years of supervised release by the Honorable Judge Lance M. Africk announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. ROUNDS and two co-defendants were charged in 2019, in a multi-count indictment by a federal grand jury with several narcotics offenses, including conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine, distribution and possession with intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine, and felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court records, on May 13, 2019, the DEA Task Force in New Orleans learned that ROUNDS and a co-conspirator were in Los Angeles, California, preparing to ship methamphetamine via United Parcel Service (UPS). Task Force officers identified two UPS parcels in the mail stream that arrived in Louisiana, one had been sent by ROUNDS. Officers seized the parcel pursuant to a federal search warrant. Inside, officers located vacuum sealed packages containing approximately 50 pounds of methamphetamine. The vacuum sealed packages were further wrapped in dryer fabric softener sheets in an attempt to mask the methamphetamine’s odor. A search of ROUNDS’s car revealed a Taurus Model PT111 G2 A, nine-millimeter caliber, semi-automatic firearm. ROUNDS is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
This prosecution was 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to Federal Drug Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SOLOMON BURKE, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on May 17, 2023 by the Honorable Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to 17 months imprisonment for possessing with the intent to distribute controlled substances. BURKE also received three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
BURKE was sentenced to Count 1 of the superseding bill of information, to which he previously pled pursuant to a plea agreement, and which charged him with possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin and a quantity of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C).
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, New Orleans Police Department, and St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crimes Unit.
Foreign National Pleads Guilty to Role in International Human Smuggling and Cocaine Distribution SchemeRead the Press Release
Honduran national pleaded guilty yesterday to his role in a scheme to illegally bring Honduran nationals to, and to distribute cocaine in, the United States.
According to court documents, Darrell Martinez, 41, and six co-conspirators schemed to bring Honduran nationals and cocaine from Honduras to the United States. In February 2022, Martinez and his co-conspirators attempted to illegally bring 23 Honduran nationals and at least 24 kilograms of cocaine from Utila, Honduras, to Cocodrie, Louisiana, by boat. At some point, the vessel developed engine trouble in the Gulf of Mexico. Martinez and his co-conspirators then chartered a boat and attempted to bring fuel to the disabled vessel so that it could complete its journey to the United States. Shortly thereafter, the U.S. Coast Guard located the vessel adrift approximately 95 miles off the coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana, and towed it to shore.
Martinez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for financial gain and conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 14 and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
On March 30, Josue Flores-Villeda, Martinez’s co-conspirator, pleaded guilty to his role in the scheme.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.
HSI Houma, Louisiana, is investigating the case, with assistance from HSI Pittsburgh, HSI Atlanta, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations, Louisiana State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, the North Huntington Township Police, and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance in the investigation.
Acting Deputy Chief Rami Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carter Guice and Ben Myers for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.
The investigation is being conducted under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA) which was established by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Department of Justice, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to enhance U.S. enforcement efforts against the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico and the Northern Triangle Countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.
Since its creation, JTFA has successfully increased coordination and collaboration between the Justice Department, DHS, and other interagency law enforcement participants, and with foreign law enforcement partners, including El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico; targeted those organizations who have the most impact on the United States; and coordinated significant smuggling indictments and extradition efforts in U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. JTFA is comprised of detailees from southwest border U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, including the Southern District of Texas, the Western District of Texas, the District of New Mexico, the District of Arizona, and the Southern District of California, and dedicated support for the program is also provided by numerous components of the Criminal Division that are part of JTFA – led by HRSP and supported by the Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training (OPDAT), the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS), the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), the Office of Enforcement Operations (OEO), the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA), and the Organized Crime and Gang Section (OCGS). JTFA is made possible by substantial law enforcement investment from the DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners.
The investigation is also supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a joint partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts New Orleans Man for Federal Gun OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 12, 2023, KEILEN HAWKINS, age 25, was charged in a one-count indictment being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In count 1, HAWKINS is charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). If convicted of Count 1, HAWKINS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts New Orleans Man for Kidnapping and Federal Gun OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 5, 2023 MERVIN AMACKER, Jr., age 41, was charged in a two-count indictment for kidnapping and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In count 1, AMACKER is charged with kidnapping, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1201(a). If convicted of Count 1, AMACKER faces a maximum term of life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to five years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
In count 2, AMACKER is charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). If convicted of Count 2, AMACKER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Mississippi Man Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Attempting to Transfer Obscene Material to a MinorRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – COLBI TRENT DEFIORE, age 30, of Carriere, Mississippi, was sentenced on May 17, 2023 by United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance to 63 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to attempting to transfer obscene matter to a minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1470, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Judge Vance ordered that DEFIORE’S sentence run consecutively to any sentence imposed by another section of court based on DEFIORE’S violation of his supervised release in United States v. Defiore, Case No. 19-230 (E.D. La.). Additionally, Judge Vance ordered DEFIORE to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. DEFIORE will also be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents, DEFIORE was an adult male resident of Carriere, Mississippi who was released on August 19, 2022 from a federal correctional institution upon completion of his sentence in an unrelated matter. Only days after his release, DEFIORE acquired a cellular phone and posted on a social media application that he desired a young girl. Undercover FBI agents saw the post, pretended to be a fourteen-year-old female (“Minor”), and began corresponding with DEFIORE. During the correspondence on August 24, 2022, and August 25, 2022, DEFIORE provided additional factual details about himself, including his age, location, and recent release from prison. He also expressed an interest in engaging in sexual activity with Minor at her location in Slidell, Louisiana. DEFIORE told Minor that he was attempting to obtain transportation to Slidell and provided Minor with directions to his location. He then encouraged her to travel to his location so they could engage in sexual activity. Further investigation revealed that, between about August 24, 2022, and August 25, 2022, DEFIORE sent the same or similar pictures to approximately four other individuals he believed to be minors under the age of sixteen (16) years old.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Man for Illegally Possessing Two Machine GunsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that XAVIER DUHON, age 20, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on April 14, 2023 in a one-count indictment for possession of a machine gun pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).
If convicted, DUHON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Individual for Federal Firearms and Narcotics OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JONATH WILLIAMSON, JR., age 38, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on March 31, 2023 in a four-count indictment. In count 1, WILLIAMSON is charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). In count 2, WILLIAMSON is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A). In count 3, WILLIAMSON is charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). In count 4, WILLIAMSON is charged with possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(k).
If convicted in count 1, WILLIAMSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. If convicted in count 2, WILLIAMSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentence, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, WILLIAMSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 4, WILLIAMSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. WILLIAMSON must pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 for each count.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigations and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Destrehan Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CHRIS HABISREITINGER, age 53, a resident of Destrehan, Louisiana, was sentenced to forty-five months’ imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release and $200.00 in mandatory special assessment fees after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846, and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, in February 2020, Drug Enforcement Administration agents identified HABISREITINGER as an ounce-quantity methamphetamine drug trafficker. During the investigation, several controlled purchases from HABISREITINGER were conducted and, agents identified his source of supply as Eric Rodriguez. On March 25, 2020, agents arrested Rodriguez and HABISREITINGER. HABISREITINGER later confirmed to agents that he was an ounce-level methamphetamine trafficker who had been doing such for approximately three months prior to his arrest, and that Rodriguez was his supplier.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
Slidell Woman Sentenced for Theft of Federal Government FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – LINDA REED HILL (“HILL”), age 76, of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced on May 16, 2023 for Theft of Government Funds in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to documents filed in federal court, beginning on or about May 1, 2004, and continuing until on or about February 28, 2021, HILL did knowingly embezzle, steal, purloin, and convert to her use, money belonging to the United States and a department and agency thereof, namely the Social Security Administration, to which she knew she was not entitled, when she withdrew funds from a joint JP Morgan Chase account registered both under her own name and Individual “A’s” name.
Prior to April 28, 2004, Individual “A” received SSA Retirement Survivor Insurance (“RSI”). After the Individual “A’s” death, from approximately May 2004 to February 2021, Individual “A” continued to receive monthly SSA disability benefits in an amount ranging from $1,310.00 - $1,518.00 per month, totaling $319,696.00. These monies were then deposited by SSA into a joint JP Morgan Chase Savings account, shared by HILL and Individual “A”. The monthly SSA funds were thereafter taken from the joint account, transferred to two different accounts listed under HILL’s name, and withdrawn by HILL.
United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced HILL to four (4) years’ probation, restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $319,696, and HILL was ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Arson and Possession of Destructive DevicesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today the unsealing of a two-count indictment returned on May 5, 2023, that charged RICKY WILSON, age 29, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, for violation of the National Firearms Act.
WILSON is charged in Count One with arson in violation Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(i)(1) and in Count Two with possession of destructive devices, identified as incendiary devices commonly known as Molotov cocktails, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 5861(d).
As to Count One, WILSON faces a term imprisonment of not less than 5 years and a maximum term of not more than 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release; as to Count Two, he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of up to $10,000, and up to 3years of supervised release. Each count 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 and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Violent Crimes Unit is assigned the prosecution.
Harvey Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FREDERICK TURNER, age 51, a resident of Harvey, Louisiana, pled guilty on May 16, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. TURNER pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride and a quantity of cocaine base (“crack”), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, and 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, a DEA investigation revealed that TURNER was involved in a narcotics distribution conspiracy with several other co-conspirators between June 8, 2020, and June 5, 2021. As part of the conspiracy, TURNER regularly distributed amounts of cocaine hydrochloride (powder cocaine) and crack cocaine. Additionally, officers executed a search warrant at TURNER’s residence where they seized an illegal shotgun.
For the drug conspiracy charge, TURNER faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For being a felon in possession of a firearm, TURNER faces a maximum of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Additionally, TURNER faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers.
Two Charged with Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – GREGORY SMITH, age 41, of Slidell, and DARREN HULBERT, SR., age 52, of New Orleans, were indicted on May 12, 2023 for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control Acts, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. SMITH and HULBERT were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. SMITH was charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(C). HULBERT was charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). SMITH and HULBERT were also each charged with possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii) and with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to the indictment, SMITH and HULBERT conspired to distribute heroin in the Eastern District of Louisiana and elsewhere. SMITH possessed with intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base and HULBERT possessed with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. On or about May 4, 2023, SMITH possessed a Masterpiece Arms Model MPA Defender, nine-millimeter semi-automatic submachine gun and HULBERT possessed a Smith and Wesson Model 6906, nine-millimeter pistol, a Springfield handgun, and a Century Arms AK Style Rifle.
If convicted of the drug conspiracy, SMITH and HULBERT each face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. SMITH also faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release if convicted of possession with intent to distribute heroin and up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release if convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base. HULBERT faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release if convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base.
For possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, SMITH and HULBERT each face a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to life imprisonment, which must be served consecutive to any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release. For being felons in possession of firearms, SMITH and HULBERT face a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. SMITH and HULBERT each face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and André Jones of the Narcotics Unit are in charge of the prosecution.
- River Ridge Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of the Federal Gun Control and Federal Controlled Substances Acts
New Orleans Man Indicted for Federal Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NATHANIEL WILLIAMS, age 27, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on May 12, 2023 in a three-count indictment for violating the Federal Gun Control and Federal Controlled Substances Acts, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
WILLIAMS is charged in Count 1 with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). He is charged in Count 2 with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). He is charged in Count 3 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).
If convicted of Count 1, WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 2, he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, he 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. As to each count, he faces payment of 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 and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Marrero Man Pleads Guilty to a Violation of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On May 11, 2023, MELVIN WALKER, age 34, a resident of Marrero, Louisiana, pled guilty to a one-count indictment, charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
WALKER faces a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
According to court records, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested WALKER after he discharged a nine-millimeter firearm at the occupant(s) of a white SUV during a drive by shooting. Prior to WALKER discharging the firearm, the occupant(s) of the white SUV fired a .223 caliber firearm at WALKER as he stood outside of his residence. During a search of WALKER’s residence, a nine-millimeter magazine, loaded with nine-millimeter caliber ammunition, was recovered from WALKER’s residence. WALKER is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition.
The Honorable Jay C. Zainey, United States District Judge, will sentence WALKER on August 15, 2023.
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 Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.
Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS –HUGO BRIAN FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS, a/k/a “Brian Pineda,” a/k/a “Hugo B. Fuentes,” a/k/a “Hugo Fuentesesguigrens,” age 27, was indicted on May 12, 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, HUGO BRIAN FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS, (“FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS”) reentered the United States after being previously deported on April 26, 2019. If convicted, 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 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.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Probation for Illegally Using Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – FIDADELFO ANTONIO CAMEY-ESPANA, age 36, was sentenced on May 11, 2023 for illegally using a social security number to enroll in a safety class to qualify for employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, FIDADELFO ANTONIO CAMEY-ESPANA (“CAMEY-ESPANA”) admitted to illegally using a social security number to enroll in a safety class to qualify for employment. CAMEY-ESPANA was sentenced by the Honorable Carl J. Barbier, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, to one year probation.
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.
Two Men Sentenced for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On May 11, 2023 United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon sentenced GERARD BROWN, age 36, of New Orleans, and EDGARDO RUIZ, age 30, of Los Angeles, California, for violating the Federal Controlled Substances and the Federal Gun Control Acts, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court records, BROWN conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute large amounts of heroin and fentanyl. BROWN also pled guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms after DEA agents found several guns in his house during the execution of a search warrant. RUIZ, who was incarcerated in California at the time of the offense, pled guilty to two counts of using a communications device to further drug trafficking activity. He admitted to using a contraband cellphone in jail to arrange drug transactions with BROWN.
Judge Fallon sentenced BROWN to 10 years in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. Judge Fallon sentenced RUIZ to eight years imprisonment to be followed by one year of supervised release. BROWN and RUIZ were also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $200 each.
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 Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.
Laplace Woman Sentenced to over Two Years for Church EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ANITA WILLENE HOBDY, age 68, of LaPlace, was sentenced to 27 months in prison on May 11, 203 for wire fraud, stemming from fraudulent charges made from First Baptist Church of LaPlace, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
HOBDY previously pled guilty to a one-count bill of information for wire fraud that involved her conduct from 2015 through 2021. According to court documents, HOBDY was a bookkeeper for a church’s daycare and embezzled over $175,000 from church accounts during that period.
The Honorable Eldon E. Fallon sentenced HOBDY to 27 months in prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. She was also ordered to pay $175,124.26 in restitution to the First Baptist Church of LaPlace.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service and the St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, Health Care Fraud Coordinator, is in charge of the prosecution.
Texas Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FERMIN RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA, age 24, a resident of Dallas, Texas, pled guilty, before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to a two-count indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on September 27, 2022, RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA traveled from Dallas, Texas to a Super 8 motel in Covington, Louisiana carrying approximately five kilograms of fentanyl. Based on information obtained through investigation, Homeland Security Investigations agents and St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies encountered RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA upon his arrival at the motel. Agents then searched his luggage and discovered five kilograms of fentanyl.
As to each count to which he pled guilty, RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by the United States Homeland Security Investigations and St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SHAMAR HOLMES, age 23, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on May 11, 2023 before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to a one-count indictment alleging that he illegally possessed a firearm having previously been convicted of a felony, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, in September 2022, HOLMES was traveling on Interstate 10 near the Claiborne Avenue exit when another car opened fire on his car. HOLMES was shot several times and taken to the hospital. When New Orleans Police Officers arrived to investigate, they seized the car as part of the shooting investigation. During a search of the vehicle, the police located a Glock, Gen. 22, 40 caliber semi-automatic handgun. Earlier, in January 2022, HOLMES had pleaded guilty to aggravated battery, a felony, in Orleans Parish and was thus prohibited from possessing guns at the time of this event.
HOLMES is set to be sentenced on August 17, 2023. He faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – SEAN MARTIN, age 56, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on May 11, 2023 before United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, MARTIN admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute over a kilogram of heroin, over 400 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(C).
Sentencing is set for August 16, 2023. MARTIN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. The count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys David Haller and Michael Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – GENE JACKSON, age 53, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on May 11, 2023 before United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to violating the federal Controlled Substances Act announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, JACKSON admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute a quantity of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
Sentencing is set for August 16, 2023. JACKSON faces a sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release. The count of conviction also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys David Haller and Michael Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit oversee the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Receipt of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOYCE JOSEPH BANERJEE (“BANERJEE”), age 56, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on May 5, 2023 for receipt of child pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. If convicted, BANERJEE faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person of the offense under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571. In addition, BANERJEE faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life after his release from prison as well as a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
According to court documents , the case against BANERJEE stemmed from an online child sexual abuse material investigation by the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office. Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) then took over the investigation and special agents executed a federal search warrant at BANERJEE’s New Orleans home in April of 2023. HSI’s investigation determined BANERJEE received images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.
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 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 Attorney’s 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 U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office; and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of Financial Crimes Unit.
Slidell Man Indicted for Federal Carjacking and Weapons OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SHAMPAIN POOLE, age 22, of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged by a federal grand jury on May 5, 2023, in a three-count indictment for carjacking and violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
POOLE is charged in Count 1 with carjacking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). He is charged in Count 2 with brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii). He is charged in in Count 3 with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
If convicted of Count 1, POOLE faces a maximum of 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 2, he faces a minimum of seven years up to a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, 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 of 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. As to each count, POOLE also faces payment of a $100.00 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 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 and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Additional Tangipahoa Parish Residents Sentenced in Jungle Life Mafia Street Gang ProsecutionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JERALD ALEXANDER, age 38, a Tangipahoa Parish resident, was sentenced on May 4, 2023, to 87 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. ALEXANDER previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
STAR ROBICHAUX, age 43, a Tangipahoa Parish resident, was sentenced on April 25, 2023, to 22 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. ROBICHAUX previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 1 kilogram or more of heroin.
According to court documents, Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) agents began investigating the drug trafficking activities of the Jungle Life Mafia street gang in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana in 2019. The investigation spanned two years. JERALD ALEXANDER served as the marijuana source of supply for multiple co-conspirators, including MICHAEL ALEXANDER, SR., ATRELL ANDERSON, and TERRELL HAYNES. DEA agents executed a search warrant at his residence which resulted in the seizure of 10 pounds of marijuana, $290,339 in U.S. currency, and a Palmetto Arms, Model PA-15, multi-caliber pistol.
Pursuant to a traffic stop, ROBICHAUX was found to be in possession of four ounces of heroin mixed with fentanyl that she planned to deliver to co-conspirator TERRELL HAYNES.
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.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration, Hammond Police Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Twenty-First Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Twenty-Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Marshals Service. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
St. Bernard Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Student Aid Fraud of over $74,000Read the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ROBERT JOHN, age 48, from St. Bernard, Louisiana, was sentenced on May 3, 2023 for conspiring to commit student aid fraud.
According to court documents, JOHN conspired with others to submit fraudulent applications for student loans and grants to two local community colleges, using the names of seven different applicants. In total, the Department of Education paid over $74,000 in loan and grant funds in connection with the fraudulent applications. The applications contained false information for all applicants, and several of the applicants did not even qualify for community college because they had not graduated from high school or obtained GEDs.
United States District Court Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced JOHN to five years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, $74,576.10 in restitution to the Department of Education, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
“I’m proud of the work of OIG special agents and our law enforcement colleagues for shutting down yet another student aid fraud ring and holding the ringleader accountable for his criminal actions,” said Edd Cole, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General’s Southwestern Regional Office. “The OIG is committed to fighting student aid fraud and we will continue to aggressively pursue those that participate in these types of crimes.”
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Education Office of Inspector General and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, Health Care Fraud Coordinator, is in charge of the prosecution.