Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Hammond Woman Charged for Theft of More Than $44,000 in Social Security FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MELISSA KING (“KING”), age 53, of Hammond, Louisiana, was indicted on March 10, 2023 for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
According to the indictment, beginning in or around December 2016, and continuing until in or around March 2020, KING collected approximately $44,696.00 in Social Security Administration funds to which she was not entitled.
If convicted, KING faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years of imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, 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.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEAN BRIGGS, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on February 28, 2023 by U.S. District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter to fifty-one (51) months of incarceration after pleading guilty as charged to a one-count indictment, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans. Judge Vitter ordered that BRIGGS be placed on supervised release for three (3) years following his release from imprisonment. BRIGGS was also ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
Count 1 charged BRIGGS with possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D).
According to court records, on May 4, 2022, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents were conducting surveillance near the intersection of Reverend John Raphael and Josephine Streets, in New Orleans, LA. Agents observed BRIGGS engaging in suspected hand-to-hand drug transactions. A New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Real Time Crime Camera (RTCC) was also operational in the area and surveilled BRIGGS. The RTCC camera captured BRIGGS holding a bag of narcotics and dealing fentanyl to a passenger of a vehicle.
BRIGGS had previously plead guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime at the same intersection in 2018 and received an eighty (80) month federal sentence. BRIGGS was dealing drugs in 2022 only months after his release while under supervision by Federal Probation and Parole Agents.
As agents began driving towards BRIGGS, he noticed them and walked away briskly. Agents saw BRIGGS tuck a bag with a white substance under his arm and run. As agents approached BRIGGS, they saw him throw a baseball sized bag of drugs from his person.
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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit .
Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – DARLIN AMINADAK BANEGAS-CRUZ, a/k/a “Darlis Mindak Banegas-Cruz,” age 28, was indicted on March 10, 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, DARLIN AMINADAK BANEGAS-CRUZ, (“BANEGAS-CRUZ”) reentered the United States after being previously deported on October 30, 2019. If convicted, BANEGAS-CRUZ 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. He faces a sentencing enhancement of 10 years because of a prior felony conviction.
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.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to International Parental KidnappingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – KIDUS AWLACHEW, age 33, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Jay Zainey after previously being charged in a one-count bill of information with international parental kidnapping, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1204, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, AWLACHEW and Person 1, an adult female, began dating in about 2018. Soon thereafter, Person 1 and her daughter, Minor Victim, moved into AWLACHEW’S residence. Between 2018 and January 2022, AWLACHEW often voluntarily acted in a parental capacity toward Minor Victim .
In about December 2021, AWLACHEW told Person 1 that he wanted to take Minor Victim to Ethiopia to experience a different culture for about one month. Based on those representations, Person 1 agreed. In fact, AWLACHEW intended to keep Minor Victim in Ethiopia for more than one month.
Thereafter, AWLACHEW purchased tickets for he and Minor Victim to travel to Ethiopia on January 14, 2022, and to return on February 21, 2022. AWLACHEW and Minor Victim did not return on February 21. On numerous occasions, Person 1 inquired why AWLACHEW had not returned with Minor Victim and to demand that he do so. AWLACHEW either ignored the inquiries or provided a false justification for not returning. Moreover, AWLACHEW usually did not allow Person 1 to correspond directly with Minor Victim.
Law enforcement authorities recovered Minor Victim from AWLACHEW’S custody in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and took AWLACHEW into custody, on July 20, 2022. United States law enforcement authorities arranged for Minor Victim to be returned to New Orleans and reunited with her mother. AWLACHEW was returned to the United States on August 24, 2022.
AWLACHEW faces up to three years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to one year of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Sentencing before Judge Zainey has been scheduled for June 13, 2023, at 10:30 am.
"The ending in this case might have been much different without the coordination and cooperation between national and international partners," said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams, Jr. "We thank the Louisiana State Police, the State Department, our fellow agents in Addis Ababa, and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for bringing this case to a swift and positive conclusion."
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, United States Department of State, and Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. U.S. Attorney Evans also expressed appreciation for the cooperation provided by the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Mexican National Pleads Guilty for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS-JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA, a/k/a “Fernando A. Lopez,” a/k/a “Juan C. Martinez,” a/k/a “Oscar Flores,” a/k/a “Martin Peralta,” a/k/a “Juan Castaneda,” age 54, pled guilty on March 9, 2023 to a one-count indictment 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 documents filed in court and signed by him, JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA (“MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA”) admitted reentering the United States after being previously deported on February 3, 2003. MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty and Sentenced for Using Another Individual’s Social Security Number to Secure EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ELTON JOHN MEJIA EUCEDA, age 22, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty yesterday to illegally using a social security number belonging to another individual, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans
According to documents filed in federal court, the defendant used a social security number belonging to another individual to secure employment with a local business. The defendant pled guilty before United States District Judge Susie Morgan and was sentenced to one year of probation and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty and Sentenced to Time Served for Illegal Re-Entry After DeportationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – NORMAN GARCIA- GARCIA(“GARCIA-GARCIA”), age 24, was sentenced on March 7, 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 court documents, GARCIA-GARCIA admitted to reentering the United States after being previously deported on February 23, 2018. GARCIA-GARCIA was sentenced by the Honorable Susie Morgan, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, to time served, which was over four months.
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. is in charge of the prosecution.
Baton Rouge Area Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – QUAN LEWIS, age 27, a resident of Gonzales, Louisiana, pled guilty on March 8, 2023 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846, and two counts of possession with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, in January 2020, a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office narcotics agent received information from a confidential source that Eric Rodriguez was routinely driving from Jefferson Parish to the Prairieville/Gonzales, Louisiana area to purchase methamphetamine. On January 20, 2020, agents learned that Rodriguez traveled to Gonzales where he remained for approximately fifteen minutes before returning to the Jefferson Parish area. Agents conducted an investigatory stop of Rodriguez in Westwego, Louisiana and recovered approximately 444 grams of methamphetamine from his vehicle. Agents determined that Rodriguez obtained the methamphetamine from LEWIS. A search of Rodriguez’s telephone revealed several text messages between Rodriguez and LEWIS in which they negotiated several drug transactions with each other.
To further their investigation, on August 11, 2020, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office narcotics agents used a confidential source to purchase methamphetamine from LEWIS. Under the direction of the agents, the confidential source contacted LEWIS and they agreed to meet at a convenience store in Gonzales where LEWIS sold the confidential source one pound of methamphetamine with 97% purity.
For the conspiracy count, LEWIS faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of at least five years. For the possession with intent to distribute counts, LEWIS faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of at least four years. At sentencing, LEWIS must pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 for each count.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Federal Prison for Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On March 8, 2023 United States Senior District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced JOHNNY WALSH, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, to serve 64 months in prison for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, WALSH pleaded guilty to two different counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one from March 2022 and the other from August 2022. During each incident, WALSH had a handgun with a 50 round drum magazine attached.
Judge Lemelle ordered that WALSH serve 64 months on each count, with the sentences to be run concurrently. WALSH will also be placed on supervised release for three years after his release from prison. Judge Lemelle also ordered WALSH to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 per count.
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 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.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – On March 8, 2023, United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced SEAN ESPRIT, age 27, of New Orleans, to serve 15 years in federal prison for violations of the Controlled Substances Act and the Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, ESPRIT admitted to jointly 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), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. ESPRIT also admitted to jointly possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii). The drug count carried a mandatory minimum penalty of at least 10 years, and the gun charge added an additional mandatory minimum 5 years that had to run consecutive to any other count.
ESPRIT will also have to serve 5 years on supervised release when he finishes serving his prison sentence. Judge Lemelle also ordered Esprit to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 per count.
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 is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Who Had Been Previously Deported Four Times Sentenced to Time Served for Illegal Re-Entry After DeportationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – SANTOS RAMOS-CASTILLO, a/k/a “Santos Ramos-Espinoza”, age 36, was sentenced on March 8, 2023 for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) on March 8, 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, SANTOS RAMOS-CASTILLO (“RAMOS-CASTILLO”) admitted reentering the United States after being previously deported on November 16, 2015. He had been deported three times prior to the fourth removal. RAMOS-CASTILLO was sentenced by the Honorable Ivan L. R. Lemelle, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, to time served, which was over 6 months.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced on Federal Firearm and Drug Trafficking Charges Stemming from New Orleans Hotel ShootoutRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CLARENCE SANTIAGO, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry to 30 years in jail for his participation in a December 28, 2020, shootout at the Jung Hotel on Canal Street, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
SANTIAGO was sentenced to Counts 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the indictment, which charges him with conspiring to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (Count 1); using, carrying and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime (Count 2); conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana (Count 3); and illegally maintaining a drug involved premises (Count 4).
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 New Orleans Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Unit Chief of Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – PAUL THOMAS, age 34, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on March 2, 2023 by United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
THOMAS had previously admitted to possessing a Glock pistol with an extended magazine and an AR-15 style rifle with double drum magazines at an auto-body shop he operated on Clark Street in New Orleans. New Orleans Police Department officers had conducted a search of the shop during a murder investigation. The officers found a .357 handgun, four rifles, a shotgun, four Glock .40 caliber handguns, several magazines, three digital scales, and various cell phones.
Judge Fallon sentenced THOMAS to 49 months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by three years of supervised release after his term of imprisonment. Judge Fallon also ordered THOMAS to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 and ordered that the guns he had possessed be forfeited to the United States.
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 New Orleans Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced on Carjacking and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant, RICHARD JONES, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 28, 2023 by U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry to a total term of 180 months. As to Counts 1, 3, and 6 of the indictment pending against him, the Court sentenced JONES to 120 months of imprisonment, to be served concurrently with each other. As to Count 2, JONES was sentenced to a term of 60 months, to be served consecutively to the terms imposed for Counts 1, 3, and 6. Additionally, upon release from imprisonment, Judge Guidry ordered that JONES be placed on supervised release for a term of 5 years, consisting of 3 years as to each of Counts 1, 3, and 6 and 5 years as to Count 2, such terms to run concurrently. Finally, JONES was ordered to pay a total $400 mandatory special assessment fee for Counts 1, 2, 3, and 6 of the six-count indictment.
Count One charged JONES with carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Count Two charged JONES with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, that is, a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A). Count Three charged JONES with burglary of a federal firearms licensee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(u). Finally, Count Six charged JONES with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g) and 924(a)(2).
JONES pled guilty to a carjacking which occurred on April 16, 2020, in New Orleans, LA. after admitting that he and a co-defendant, while armed with a firearm, took the vehicle from the victim. Additionally, on April 17, 2020, deputies with St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at C&S Gun Parlor in Covington, LA, a federal firearm licensee, and discovered that a truck had rammed the front entrance. Surveillance video footage revealed that a pick-up truck had driven through the entrance of the business. Thereafter, three individuals were seen, exiting the vehicle and throwing forty-five weapons that they had stolen from the store into the bed of the truck. JONES was identified as one of these participants. Eventually, JONES was arrested in New Orleans and found to be in illegal 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
Man Charged with Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – CLEMENT LEACH, age 52, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on one count of Bank Robbery in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, on Monday, March 2, 2020, LEACH robbed Chase Bank and obtained approximately $920. If convicted, LEACH faces a maximum of twenty years in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release following his release from prison and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
United States Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crime Task Force and officers of New Orleans Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.
Laplace Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LENDELL WALLACE, age 39, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, was sentenced on March 2, 2023, to 12 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier, after pleading guilty to a two-count indictment which charged him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute tramadol and possession with intent to distribute tramadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(E), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, 800 dosage units of tramadol were seized from WALLACE’s residence pursuant to a search warrant. The investigation revealed that on multiple occasions WALLACE had tramadol mailed to his home from Singapore. He then distributed and conspired with others to distribute the tramadol.
This case was investigated by St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, and United States Customs and Border Protection. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
Houma Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, the Federal Gun Control Act, and Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSHUA BOGEN, age 31, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, pled guilty on March 1, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), and assaulting a federal officer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(b), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on October 18, 2021, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents received information that BOGEN, a convicted felon, would be transporting approximately two pounds of crystal methamphetamine from Houma, Louisiana to a residence on Pauger Street in New Orleans to conduct a drug deal. Upon arriving at the Pauger Street residence, BOGEN got out of his vehicle carrying a large bag containing 1009.9 grams of pure methamphetamine and a Glock Model 26 Gen 4, nine-millimeter semi-automatic handgun with a round in the chamber. DEA agents then turned on their surveillance unit’s flashing blue lights and began to exit the vehicle. Immediately after an agent opened their door, BOGEN brandished his handgun and pointed it directly at one of the agents. Agents took cover at the rear of the vehicle and one shot was fired in BOGEN’s direction. BOGEN, who was not wounded, immediately threw the handgun and the large bag of methamphetamine over the fence adjacent to the driveway of the residence and surrendered.
For possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, BOGEN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a drug trafficking offense, BOGEN faces a statutory minimum sentence of seven years of imprisonment, up to life, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. For being a felon in possession of a firearm, BOGEN faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release. For assaulting a federal officer, BOGEN faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release. For each of the four counts, BOGEN faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
Honduran National Sentenced to Time Served for Illegal Re-Entry After DeportationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – MARIO RENE REYES-CARDONA, age 52, was sentenced on March 2, 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 documents filed in court and signed by him, MARIO RENE REYES-CARDONA (“REYES-CARDONA”) admitted to reentering the United States after being previously deported on December 18, 2013. REYES-CARDONA was sentenced by the Honorable Nannette Jolivette Brown, Chief U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, to time served, which exceeded 16 months.
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.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Man for Weapons ViolationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today, that on March 3, 2023 a federal grand jury indicted LARYAN REED, age 22, with a weapon violation that occurred on February 17, 2023.
In Count 1 of the indictment, REED is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). If convicted, REED faces a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of up to 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.
United States Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
reed_laryan_indictment_redacted_sanitized.pdfThree More Sentenced in Staged Automobile Collision SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BERNELL GALE (“GALE”), age 46 of Raceland, Louisiana, TANYA GIVENS (“GIVENS”), age 45, of Gibson, Louisiana; and DAKOTA DIGGS (“D. DIGGS”), age 27, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, were each sentenced on March 1, 2023 in United States District Court. Each defendant had previously pled to one count of 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.
According to court records, on March 27, 2017, GIVENS conspired with passengers Lois Russell (“Russell”), John Diggs (“J. Diggs”), and James “Curtis” Williams (“Williams”) to stage an accident with a tractor-trailer at the intersection of Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road. Damien Labeaud (“Labeaud”) and Roderick Hickman (“Hickman”) also participated in this accident. Hickman, while driving Russell’s car, intentionally struck the 18-wheeler and then fled the scene in a getaway vehicle driven by Labeaud. Russell advised NOPD that she was the driver and she, along with GIVENS and J. Diggs, made claims for personal injuries. In total, the victim trucking and insurance companies paid out approximately $272,500.00 for these fraudulent claims.
According to court records, on May 17, 2017, D. DIGGS, Henry Randle (“H. Randle”), and Ryan Wheaten (“Wheaten”) served as passengers in an automobile collision staged by Labeaud in the vicinity of U.S. Highway 90 East and Calliope Street in New Orleans. Labeaud fled the scene in a getaway car driven by Mario Solomon. H. Randle falsely reported to the NOPD that he had been driving and that the tractor-trailer had struck his vehicle. Shortly thereafter, Labeaud and Solomon went on to stage a second accident in the vicinity of Louisa Street and Chickasaw Street in New Orleans with GALE, Troy Smith (“Smith”), Marvel Francois (“Francois”), and another passenger. After these collisions, D. DIGGS, H. Randle, Wheaten, GALE, Smith, and Francois made fraudulent claims for personal injuries. The victim trucking and insurance companies paid out approximately $10,000.00 for these phony claims.
U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced DIGGS to 60 months of probation, restitution in the amount of $11,000 and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. GIVENS was sentenced to 60 months of probation, restitution in the amount of $363,970.63 and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. GALE was sentenced to 36 months of probation and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. The court set a restitution hearing for GALE for May 31, 2023 at 2 p.m.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera, Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni, both of the Financial Crimes Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
Terrebonne Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of the Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that yesterday, TATUM DARDAR, 26, from Terrebonne Parish, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C) and possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
DARDAR took part in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine throughout Terrebonne Parish and the surrounding areas for over a year.
At sentencing and for each charge, DARDAR faces up to a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a maximum fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least four (4) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, and the Houma Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Former Louisiana Woman Pled Guilty to Preparing over 110 Fraudulent PPP Loans Totaling over $1.1 Million DollarsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that SHARNAE EVERY (“EVERY”), age 27, of Houston, Texas, pled guilty on March 2, 2023 to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349.
The case against EVERY began as a a referral from the COVID-19 Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (“PRAC”) regarding possible fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans . Investigators determined there were at least 110 PPP sole proprietor loan applications in and around the Thibodeaux, Louisiana area that all contained the same invoices and federal tax forms (“Schedule C”) with the same business name and amounts.
According to documents filed in federal court, EVERY created a fictitious business called “Natural Hair Afro, LLC, Houma, LA 70360” and used this fictitious business name on nearly all of the fraudulent PPP loan applications. EVERY advertised under various aliases on Facebook to recruit individuals to obtain money from the PPP program. EVERY prepared and submitted false and fraudulent PPP sole proprietor loan applications via various online portals including, but not limited, to Blueacorn. EVERY created all of the false and fraudulent invoices, bank statements, and Schedule Cs. EVERY falsely certified that the applications and the information provided in the supporting documents were true and accurate when she electronically submitted the fraudulent PPP loan applications.
EVERY charged the individuals she recruited to prepare and submit the fraudulent PPP application anywhere from $45.00 to $120.00 . EVERY primarily used Cash App to receive the initial payments. EVERY then charged approximately $3,500.00 once the loans were funded. EVERY received these funds into her Current account, her Cash App account, or into her boyfriend’s Current account.
EVERY faces a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000.00 or twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person, followed by a term of supervised release for up to three (3) years, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for June 8, 2023 before Chief United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General, is an active member of the PRAC Fraud Task Force.
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.
This case was investigated by an agent assigned to the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to serve the American public by promoting transparency and facilitating coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 21 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending. The PRAC Fraud Task Force brings together agents from 15 Inspectors General to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program.
The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; and the United States Secret Service’s Cyber Fraud Task Force, consisting of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Thibodeaux Police Department, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit, and Assistant United States Attorney Edward Rivera, COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator.
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Felon Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – TIMREK ANDREWS, age 53, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on March 2, 2023 to a violation of the Federal Gun Control Act pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
The indictment charged ANDREWS in a single count with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Court documents reveal that ANDREWS and a co-defendant were under surveillance by federal agents. When agents approached ANDREWS, they found a firearm on the floorboard of the driver’s seat where he had been previously sitting. ANDREWS is prohibited from possessing a firearm since he had been previously convicted in federal court of being a convicted 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.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Strauss of the Violent Crimes Unit.
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Covington Man Sentenced to 36 Months for Federal Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA –JESSY AVILA-VENEGAS, age 28, of Covington, Louisiana, was sentenced on March 1, 2023 for five counts of violating the Federal Gun Control Act pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(a)(6) and 924(a)(2). AVILA-VENEGAS was sentenced to 36 months of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a total of $500.00 in mandatory special assessment fees, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
The sentence is pursuant to AVILA-VENEGAS’s federal conviction for making false statements in connection with the acquisition of firearms. On five separate occasions, he falsely represented that he was the true purchaser of the firearm(s) on the required Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) Form 4473. However, he was not the true purchaser and made the transactions on behalf of another person he knew was not eligible to receive 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.
The case was investigated by ATF and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles D. Strauss of the Violent Crimes Unit.
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Army Reservist Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on March 2, 2023 former United States Army reservist LYNEA SANDERS has pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, having stolen $21,780.18 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for the performance of military funeral honors ceremonies that never happened.
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of “Taps.”
By pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, SANDERS faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. SANDERS has repaid the Department of the Army for the $21,780.18 in stolen funds.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command, including Special Agents Dustin Stevens, John Hiniker, Jeffrey Riedeman, and Denny Richter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Army Reservist Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that Army reservist CHANTELLE DAVIS has pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, having stolen $8,399.65 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for the performance of military funeral honors ceremonies that never happened.
The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of “Taps.”
By pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, DAVIS faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. DAVIS has repaid the Department of the Army for the $8,399.65 in stolen funds.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command, including Special Agents Dustin Stevens, John Hiniker, Jeffrey Riedeman, and Denny Richter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Former Louisiana Resident Charged with Cares Act FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BRANDI WEBER, age 28, formerly of New Orleans, LA and now residing in California, was charged on March 1. 2023 in a one-count bill of information with making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001.
On March 27, 2020, The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
According to the charging documents, WEBER made false statements to an approved lender on or about April 2, 2021, for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining a PPP loan, which she later received in the amount of approximately $10,302.00. WEBER stated in her PPP application that she was a self-employed esthetician impacted by the pandemic when, in truth, she had no such business in 2020.
WEBER faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for the false statements count. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee due after conviction. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
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 Amtrak Office of Inspector General – Criminal Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
brandi_weber_boi_redacted_sanitized.pdfFlorida Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Quantity of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DANTE BOWMAN, age 23, a resident of Florida, was sentenced today to 108 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, after pleading guilty to a one-count indictment which charged him with possession with the intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine 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, following a traffic stop on Interstate-10, law enforcement officers located approximately 3.1 pounds of methamphetamine within locked canvas bags hidden in the spare tire area of a vehicle rented by BOWMAN.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Felon Sentenced to 65 Months for Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SHAWN RABATHALY, age 23, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on February 28, 2023 to a violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
The single count indictment charged RABATHALY with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Court documents reveal that RABATHALY was under surveillance by investigators, who saw him place an Anderson Model AM-15, 5.56 caliber assault rifle into a vehicle he occupied. RABATHALY is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his criminal history. He was previously convicted of a felony offense in Orleans Parish for illegal possession of a controlled substance.
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. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Dustin Strauss of the Violent Crimes Unit.
Dr. Charles J. Southall, III Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for Money Laundering, Obtaining over $889,000 Through FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – DR. CHARLES J. SOUTHALL, III, age 65, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jay Zainey to 60 months in prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, after SOUTHALL previously pleaded guilty to laundering proceeds unlawfully obtained from a wire fraud scheme, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1957 and 2 announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Additionally, Judge Zainey ordered SOUTHALL to pay $889,565.86 in restitution to the victims of his offenses and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, SOUTHALL has served as the Executive Pastor of First Emanuel Baptist Church (FEBC) since about 1989. FEBC maintained houses of worship in New Orleans, Louisiana, and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, owned multiple parcels of real property in New Orleans, and created housing ministry entities to provide affordable housing to low-income New Orleans residents and to receive income from renting some of the properties FEBC owned. As Executive Pastor, SOUTHALL led and counseled the FEBC congregation, participated in the administration and operation of charitable organizations affiliated with FEBC, including its housing ministries, and solicited donations purportedly for specific repair, developmental, and charitable projects and tithes in support of FEBC and its mission. SOUTHALL received a salary in accordance with the terms of his employment contract, as well as monetary gifts from the FEBC congregation throughout the year.
Exploiting his position as Executive Pastor, SOUTHALL defrauded FEBC and some of its members in several ways. First, SOUTHALL solicited tithes and donations from several members and then improperly diverted the money to his personal use. For example, SOUTHALL solicited a $10,000 tithe from Victim A in July 2019, the proceeds of which he deposited into his personal financial accounts and used to pay for personal expenses. Between August 2016 and July 2020, SOUTHALL solicited multiple donations from Victim B ostensibly for various charitable purposes and the improvement of FEBC’s New Orleans building. SOUTHALL improperly diverted approximately $106,408.38 of the funds Victim B donated to FEBC to financial accounts under SOUTHALL’S personal control and to pay for SOUTHALL’S personal expenses unrelated to FEBC or its mission without the knowledge or authorization of Victim B.
Second, SOUTHALL diverted approximately $150,000 of income that resulted from the rental of properties owned by FEBC and its affiliated housing ministries to his personal use and benefit without the knowledge or authorization of FEBC.
Third, SOUTHALL developed and implemented a scheme to defraud FEBC by causing real properties owned by FEBC to be sold and diverting a portion of the profit from the sale of the real properties to and for SOUTHALL’S personal benefit without the knowledge or authorization of FEBC or the FEBC Board of Trustees. In total, SOUTHALL improperly caused approximately $537,805.51 of profit from the sale of FEBC-owned real properties located on Amelia Street, Fourth Street, and Baronne Street to be diverted to SOUTHALL’S personal benefit improperly and without authorization.
Additionally, SOUTHALL and others created the Spirit of Excellence Academy for the purpose of operating a charter school in New Orleans. In about 2013, SOUTHALL secured funding to create an affiliated school in Baton Rouge. Although Spirit of Excellence received funding in the form of grants and loans, the Baton Rouge school never opened. According to rules promulgated by the State of Louisiana, Board Members of charter schools were prohibited from receiving compensation for providing services to the school other than for reimbursement of actual expenses. As President of the Board of Directors of Spirit of Excellence Academy, SOUTHALL submitted financial statements that represented he had no personal or financial interest with Spirit of Excellence Academy.
Notwithstanding these representations, in about September 2013, SOUTHALL hired Person A to be employed and compensated by Spirit of Excellence Academy for consulting work related to the creation of Spirit of Excellence Academy – Baton Rouge. Between about September 2013 and September 2017, Spirit of Excellence Academy paid Person A approximately $220,600, all of which was deposited into a financial account SOUTHALL and Person A jointly controlled. SOUTHALL regularly diverted a portion of the funds paid to Person A to SOUTHALL’S personal use, including by transferring some of the funds from one or more of the accounts he controlled jointly with Person A to other financial accounts under SOUTHALL’S control or causing the funds to be used to pay SOUTHALL’S personal credit card bills. In total, between about September 2013 and September 2017, SOUTHALL improperly caused approximately $85,351.97 of the funds paid to Person A by Spirit of Excellence Academy to be diverted to SOUTHALL’S personal benefit and use in the manner described above.
In total, SOUTHALL obtained approximately $889,565.86 through his fraudulent schemes. SOUTHALL then engaged in a series of financial transactions using the proceeds of the criminally derived proceeds he obtained, including negotiating a check in the amount of $11,841 to purchase tickets, using funds originating from the sale of the Fourth Street property in the amount of $100,000 to open and fund a JPMC individual investment account for himself; negotiating a cashier’s check in the amount of $95,000 to purchase a vehicle; and negotiating a cashier’s check in the amount of $10,764.11 for the down payment of another vehicle.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Forensic Accountant Josephine M. Beninati, CPA, CFE in this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Corruption Unit, and Monetary Penalty and Asset Recovery Unit Asset Forfeiture Coordinator Alexandra Giavotella were in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy, Carjacking, and Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on Monday, February 27, 2023, TYRESE HARRIS, age 19, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to a five-count superseding indictment for conspiracy, carjacking, and weapons violations. Count 1 charged HARRIS with conspiracy to commit carjackings beginning on August 19, 2021 through February 1, 2022 in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. Count 2 of the indictment charged HARRIS with a carjacking that occurred on August 19, 2021, on Washington Avenue in New Orleans, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Count 3 charged HARRIS with using a firearm in furtherance of the carjacking, a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(ii) and 2. In Count 4 of the indictment, HARRIS was charged with an attempted carjacking on Howard Avenue on January 18, 2022 in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Finally, in Count 5, HARRIS was charged with a carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury that occurred on February 1, 2022 on S. Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2119(2) and 2. HARRIS’ sentencing is set for May 30, 2023.
If convicted of Count 1 , HARRIS faces a maximum sentence of 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. If convicted of these Counts 2 and 4, HARRIS faces a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00,and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, HARRIS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, to be run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 5 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 5, HARRIS faces a sentence of a maximum 25 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each count of the superseding indictment, HARRIS also 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 and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy, Carjacking, and Weapons ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on Monday, February 27, 2023, TYRESE HARRIS, age 19, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to a five-count superseding indictment for conspiracy, carjacking, and weapons violations. Count 1 charged HARRIS with conspiracy to commit carjackings beginning on August 19, 2021 through February 1, 2022 in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371 . Count 2 of the indictment charged HARRIS with a carjacking that occurred on August 19, 2021, on Washington Avenue in New Orleans.in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Count 3 charged HARRIS with using a firearm in furtherance of the carjacking, a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(ii) and 2 In Count 4 of the indictment, HARRIS was charged with an attempted carjacking on Howard Avenue on January 18, 2022 in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Finally, in Count 5, HARRIS was charged with a carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury that occurred on February 1, 2022 on S. Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2119(2) and 2. HARRIS’ sentencing is set for May 30, 2023.
If convicted of Count 1 , HARRIS faces a maximum sentence of 5 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. If convicted of these Counts 2 and 4, HARRIS faces a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00,and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. . If convicted of Count 3, HARRIS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, to be run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 5 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 5, HARRIS faces a sentence of a maximum 25 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each count of the superseding indictment , HARRIS also 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 and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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New Orleans Man Indicted for Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – EMANUEL ROSS, age 24, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged today, in a three-count indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control and Federal Drug Control Acts.
ROSS is charged in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); in Count 2 with possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c); and in Count 3 with possession of a machinegun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(o). Count 2 of the indictment alleges that ROSS possessed 10 different guns in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities.
As to Count 1, ROSS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release. For Count 2, ROSS faces a consecutive term of imprisonment of not less than 5 years up to life imprisonment to be served consecutive to any other term imposed, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release. For Count 3, ROSS faces up to a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years , up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Finally, ROSS 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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CHRISTIAN PENA-OCHOA, age 29, a citizen of Honduras, was charged on February 24, 2023, in a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the indictment, PENA-OCHOA reentered the United States after he was previously removed on September 7, 2018.
If convicted, PENA-OCHOA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Theft and Sale of Motor Vehicle from Mississippi Car DealershipRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JONATHAN BUSH (“BUSH”), age 35, was sentenced on February 16, 2023, for conspiring to transport and sell stolen vehicles in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
According to court documents, BUSH and his co-conspirators stole cars from car dealerships and rental car facilities in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and George. After the cars were stolen, BUSH and his co-conspirators would retitle the cars 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 would then resell the cars to buyers in the New Orleans metro area at discounted prices.
U.S. District Court Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown sentenced BUSH to serve (60) months 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 in this matter for April 20, 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.
Two More New Orleans Residents Sentenced in Staged Automobile Collision SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that, on February 15, 2023, U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced HERBERT ALLEN (“ALLEN”), age 38, and DION RIDLEY (“RIDLEY”), age 23, after they pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. Judge Vance sentenced ALLEN to 37 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. RIDLEY was sentenced to 6 months in prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release. Judge Vance also imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 as to each defendant.
According to court documents, the defendants admitted to being in a conspiracy to commit mail fraud in connection with a staged automobile collision. In the scheme, ALLEN falsely claimed that he was the driver of a car that was struck by a tractor-trailer on June 28, 2017. RIDLEY, a passenger in the car, falsely claimed that ALLEN was driving the car and they were struck by a tractor-trailer. In fact, the government’s evidence showed that the defendants conspired with Damien Labeaud (“Labeaud”), Roderick Hickman (“Hickman”), and others to intentionally collide ALLEN’s 2007 Chevrolet Impala with a tractor-trailer in the area of Tchoupitoulas Street and Calliope Street in New Orleans. Both defendants lied in civil depositions, falsely claiming that ALLEN was driving the car that collided with the tractor-trailer, when in fact Hickman was driving the car and intentionally hit the tractor-trailer. Through their false statements and acts of deception, ALLEN was able to secure a $50,000 monetary settlement from the owner and insurer of the tractor-trailer, and RIDLEY was able to secure a $90,000 monetary settlement.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Long; Brian M. Klebba, Unit Chief; Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria M. Carboni; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Rivera, all members of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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Terrebonne Parish Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DERECK CELESTIN, JR., age 37, a resident of Terrebonne Parish, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 16, 2023 to 120 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $200 special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, after pleading guilty to a two-count indictment which charged him with distribution of methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation revealed that CELESTIN was a methamphetamine distributor in Terrebonne Parish. DEA agents arranged two controlled purchases of methamphetamine from CELESTIN. On July 13, 2021, agents arranged the purchase of 48.73 grams of methamphetamine from CELESTIN. On August 9, 2021, agents arranged the purchase of 130.35 grams of methamphetamine from CELESTIN.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Resident Pleads Guilty to Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TONI JONES, age 33, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on February 16, 2023 to a violation of the Federal Drug Control Act, Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
JONES’s federal conviction is for possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine base, and methamphetamine. The offense occurred on February 10, 2022 at the intersection of North Claiborne Avenue and Tupelo Street in New Orleans, Louisiana. She faces a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Dustin Strauss of the Violent Crimes Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that GREGORY JOSEPH HERNANDEZ, age 67, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced yesterday in United States District Court on one count of Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
According to court documents, HERNANDEZ stole checks from the mail and altered the information on the stolen checks to include his name or the name of a co-conspirator. On two instances, HERNANDEZ was captured on surveillance video rifling through a company’s mailbox in New Orleans and stealing pieces of mail. HERNANDEZ and his co-conspirators then deposited and cashed the altered checks at financial institutions in the New Orleans area. Through this scheme, HERNANDEZ caused an intended loss of approximately $56,946.88 to financial institutions.
U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced HERNANDEZ to serve 33 months in prison, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release. HERNANDEZ was ordered to pay restitution to the First Horizon Bank in the amount of $31,426.21. Judge Barbier also imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service and the New Orleans Police Department in this investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni.
Kentucky Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – WALTER ALVAREZ TIRADO, age 33, a resident of Madisonville, Kentucky, pled guilty on February 16, 2023 before U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine 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 October 6, 2021, TIRADO traveled from Kentucky in the direction of New Orleans, Louisiana in order to deliver fifty pounds of methamphetamine. Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of TIRADO’s vehicle in Pearl River, Louisiana. Upon being stopped, TIRADO’s luggage was searched where officers discovered fifty pounds of methamphetamine.
TIRADO faces a statutory 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 mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit
Felon Sentenced to 70 Months for Drug Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DESEAN CHRISTY, age 38, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced yesterday for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2), and 924(c)(1)(A), and the Federal Drug Control Act, Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). CHRISTY was sentenced to 70 months of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and $300 total in mandatory special assessment fees.
The sentence is pursuant to CHRISTY’s federal conviction for possession with intent to distribute cocaine base in New Orleans. The sentence also covers his convictions for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime because he had a Glock Model 22 semi-automatic handgun at the time of his arrest. CHRISTY was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his criminal history. According to court documents, CHRISTY was previously convicted of attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of heroin, and possession of cocaine.
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 U.S. Attorney Charles Dustin Strauss of the Violent Crimes Unit.
Two More Individuals Sentenced to 10 Months for Conspiring to Stage Automobile Accidents in Order to Defraud Insurance and Trucking CompaniesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOHN DIGGS (“J. DIGGS”), age 62, of Thibodaux, Louisiana, and JAMES WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 68, of Gibson, Louisiana, were both sentenced February 14, 2023 to 10 months in prison by U.S. District Court Judge Lance M. Africk after they pleaded guilty to 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.
According to court records, J. DIGGS and WILLIAMS conspired with passengers Lois Russell (“Russell”) and Tanya Givens (“Givens”) to stage an accident with a tractor-trailer at the intersection of Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road. Damien Labeaud (“Labeaud”) and Roderick Hickman (“Hickman”), who have already pleaded guilty to staging other accidents, also participated in this accident. Hickman, while driving Russell’s car, intentionally struck the 18-wheeler and then fled the scene with Labeaud. Russell advised NOPD that she was the driver and she, along with Givens, J. DIGGS and WILLIAMS, made claims for personal injuries. In total, the victim trucking and insurance companies paid out $272,500.00 for these fraudulent claims.
In addition to prison, J. DIGGS and WILLIAMS were both sentenced to 3 years of supervised release and a restitution hearing was set for April 5, 2023. Judge Africk also imposed upon each a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera, Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Long, and Unit Chief Brian M. Klebba, all the Financial Crimes Unit.
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South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to CarjackingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on February 14, 2023, defendant WILLIAM NELSON, age 21, a resident of South Carolina, pled guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey to committing a carjacking in New Orleans, Louisiana on January 2, 2022.
In Count 1 of the indictment, NELSON is charged with a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119. NELSON faces a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of up to 3 years supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. NELSON’S sentencing is scheduled for May 16, 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.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
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Plaquemines Parish Woman Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CALLEIGH AMOS, age 30, a resident of Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, pled guilty on February 9, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, AMOS 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, AMOS regularly distributed amounts of methamphetamine.
AMOS faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
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 of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to over Nine Years for Violating the Federal Gun Control and the Federal Controlled Substances ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced JACOB BANKS, age 32, of New Orleans, yesterday to 111 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Gun Control Act and the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court documents, BANKS was convicted in another federal case of being a felon in possession back in 2019 and sentenced accordingly. Only two weeks after completing that sentence, police observed BANKS in possession of a firearm during a repast for a murdered drug dealer. The police were not able to arrest BANKS then but a few weeks later found BANKS and several other men who were also felons in possession of firearms. BANKS admitted he possessed a Springfield Arms .45 caliber pistol after he had already been convicted of several felony offenses. BANKS also admitted to possessing crack cocaine with the intent to distribute it and that he possessed the firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activity.
Judge Africk sentenced BANKS to 111 months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $300.
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 New Orleans Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crimes Unit.
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Mississippi Man and Woman Charged with Wire FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Duane A. Evans announced today that JAMES “Jay” SINYARD and MARY “Gigi” SINYARD (“the SINYARDs”), residents of Brandon, Mississippi, were charged on February 14, 2023 with one count of wire fraud.
According to the charging document, the SINYARDs operated a company called VetAttend of Jackson where they purported to provide services to Veterans for home aid and assistance. The SINYARDs submitted, and caused to be submitted, fraudulent affidavits for home aid services provided, when they knew that those services were not actually provided. The affidavits were submitted to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) through the Eastern District of Louisiana. As a result of 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 appropriated approximately $2,136,329.68 in funds relating to false affidavits of services provided.
If convicted, the SINYARDs face a possible maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count.
U.S. Attorney Evans stated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.
The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
Houston-Area Woman Sentenced to 24 Months Imprisonment for Obstructing the Enforcement of Federal Criminal Sex Trafficking StatuteRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – DAJANAE DRAKE, age 29, from Missouri City, Texas, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to 24 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 after previously pleading guilty as charged to a one-count bill of information charging her with obstruction, attempted obstruction, and interference with the enforcement of the federal criminal sex trafficking statute, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1591(d) announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, Person 1, then a female of approximately sixteen years old, met Randi Lewis in about early 2020. Lewis recruited Person 1 to engage in commercial sex acts under his direction, and she complied. In about June 2021, Lewis and Person 1 met the minor victim, who was thirteen years old, in the Houston, Texas area. At Lewis’s direction, Person 1 recruited the victim to perform commercial sex acts under Lewis’s direction. Thereafter, Lewis arranged for he, Person 1, and the minor victim to travel to New Orleans on a Greyhound bus for the purpose of his co-conspirator and the victim to engage in commercial sex acts. Between June 22, 2021, and June 24, 2021, Person 1 and the minor victim performed multiple commercial sex acts in the New Orleans area. On June 24, 2021, law enforcement authorities recovered the victim and arrested Person 1 and Lewis at a hotel in Terrytown, Louisiana. Thereafter, Person 1 and Lewis were charged criminally and incarcerated.
Between June 25, 2021, and about November 28, 2021, DRAKE held numerous telephone conversations with Person 1 and Lewis, including several conversations during which DRAKE knowingly encouraged Person 1 to sign a false affidavit saying that Lewis played no role in recruiting and trafficking the minor victim. DRAKE did so with the purpose of obstructing the enforcement of criminal law, including Title 18, United States Code, Section 1591.
Federal criminal charges against both Person 1 and Lewis are pending. Lewis has pleaded guilty and is scheduled to be sentenced on March 8, 2023, by United States District Judge Lance M. Africk.
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 and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Corruption Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced on Drug and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant, KEENAN CONLEY, age 25, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced on February 9, 2023 by U.S. District Court Judge Eldon E. Fallon to 92 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, and a mandatory $400 special assessment fee on four counts of a five-count indictment. Additionally, Judge Fallon ran the federal sentence consecutive to the defendant’s state sentence in another matter.
In Count 1 of the indictment, CONLEY 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). In Counts 3 and 5, CONLEY is charged 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). Finally, in Count 4, CONLEY is charged with possession with the intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, and marijuana in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D).
On January 25, 2021, CONLEY was involved in a shooting in Harvey, LA. Pursuant to the shooting investigation, detectives conducted a search of his vehicle and found narcotics and a firearm. An arrest warrant was issued by Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO), and CONLEY was subsequently arrested on May 17, 2021. During his arrest on May 17, 2021, JPSO located a firearm in his engine compartment near the battery as well as narcotics in his possession.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U. S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sherriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Louisiana Woman Charged with Cares Act FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHANEL GALLE, of New Orleans, LA, age 44, was indicted on February 10, 2023 by a federal grand jury for two counts of making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
On March 27, 2020, The CARES Act became effective and established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
According to the charging documents, GALLE made false statements to an approved lender on or about February 18, 2021, for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining a PPP loan. GALLE falsely claimed in her PPP application that she had a certain number of employees and incurred payroll expenses for an LLC called Coco’s Companion Care. GALLE thereafter received approximately $20,833.00 based upon the misrepresentations. GALLE then made false statements to an approved lender on or about March 30, 2021, for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining a second PPP loan. GALLE received approximately $20,832.00 after falsely claiming that she operated a beautician service.
GALLE faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for each false statements count. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count due after conviction. 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.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced on Drug and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant, ARTHUR ALLEN, of Orleans Parish, was sentenced on February 8, 2023 by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to 90 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee on Counts One, Two, and Four of a four-count indictment.
Count One of the indictment charges ALLEN with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D). Count 2 charges ALLEN with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i) and 2. Count 4 charges ALLEN with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). ALLEN was not charged in Count 3 of the indictment.
On July 29, 2021, New Orleans Police Officers conducted a stop on a vehicle containing three individuals, including ALLEN. During this stop, ALLEN fled the vehicle but was later apprehended by officers. Upon a search of the vehicle, officers discovered illegal drugs and weapons.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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