Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
New Orleans Woman Sentenced for Conspiring to Stage Automobile Accident in Order to Defraud Insurance and Trucking CompaniesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ISHAIS PRICE (“PRICE"), age 41, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, before United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance, arising out of a staged automobile accident with a tractor-trailer occurring in New Orleans.
According to documents filed in federal court, PRICE, along with her co-defendants, Doniesha Gibson (Gibson), of New Orleans, Louisiana; and Chandrika Brown (Brown), of Harvey, and a co-defendant driver conspired to commit mail fraud in connection with a staged accident with a co-defendant driver. Thus far, the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” is thirty-seven (37).
PRICE claimed that on October 15, 2015, she was a passenger in a 2014 Dodge Avenger owned and driven by Gibson that was hit by a Hotard bus while traveling on the I-10 near the flyover of the I-510. Also in the vehicle was defendant Brown. In truth, a co-defendant asked Gibson to recruit Brown and PRICE to ride along as passengers and he then intentionally sought out a commercial vehicle to intentionally hit. After the staged accident, the co-defendant driver switched seats with Gibson, and they called the N.O.P.D. Gibson, along with the passengers, falsely stated that the Hotard bus illegally changed lanes and caused the accident. Thereafter, Brown, Gibson, PRICE, and the co-defendant driver each retained counsel and made demands against Hotard’s owner and insurer for personal injury damages. As a result of the claims, the insurer utilized the U.S. mails to send the settlement drafts to Brown, Gibson, PRICE, and the co-defendant driver’s counsel. The total settlement for the Hotard bus accident was approximately $677,500.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced PRICE to one (1) year and one (1) day imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and $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 Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera; Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Long.
Jefferson Parish Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TRAVIS CARTER, a/k/a “Tree,” age 42, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 9, 2022 to 24 months imprisonment , 3 years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier, after pleading guilty to a one-count indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on January 7, 2021, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives executed a search of CARTER’s residence in Metairie. During the search, they discovered a digital scale with white powder residue, approximately one gram of suspected crack cocaine, a box of clear plastic bags, and $2,398.00 in U.S. currency. Detectives then transported CARTER to the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center. Thereafter, correctional officers searched CARTER’s person, which resulted in the discovery of six clear plastic bags containing approximately 165.27 grams of cocaine located in his shoes.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers.
Memphis Man Charged with Trafficking 17-Year-Old Female into the New Orleans Area to Perform Commercial Sex ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DOMINIQUE PEEPLES, age 25, from Memphis, Tennessee, was charged today by a federal grand jury in a one-count indictment for bringing a seventeen-year-old female from Memphis, Tennessee to New Orleans, Louisiana and elsewhere for the purpose of having her perform commercial sex acts from in or about August 2020 and continuing until in or about January 2021. For this conduct, the indictment charges PEEPLES with Sex Trafficking of a Minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1591(a)(1), 1591(b)(2), 1594(a), and 2.
If convicted, PEEPLES faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years imprisonment up to life imprisonment. The defendant also faces supervised release for a minimum term of five years up to life, a fine of up to $250,000, a requirement that the defendant participate in the sex offender registration and notification program, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
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, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Memphis Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Carboni and Jordan Ginsberg, Supervisor of the Public Corruption Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Felon Sentenced for Fentanyl Distribution and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHRISTOPHER MAY, age 30, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 8, 2022 to a total of 106 months imprisonment in the custody of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons to be followed by a five-year term of supervised release.
Specifically, the Court sentenced MAY to forty-six (46) months for possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); and three counts of possessing a firearm and/or ammunition as a convicted felon in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). Each count is to be served concurrently with one another. The Court also sentenced MAY to sixty (60) months imprisonment for one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i) to be served consecutively to all other counts.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders works together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating the matter. Assistant United States Attorney Charles D. Strauss was in charge of the prosecution.
Justice Department Announces Investigation of the Louisiana State PoliceRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department announced today that is has opened a pattern or practice investigation into the Louisiana State Police (LSP). This civil investigation will assess whether LSP uses excessive force and whether it engages in racially discriminatory policing. The investigation will include a comprehensive review of LSP policies, training, supervision, and force investigations, as well as LSP’s systems of accountability, including misconduct complaint intake, investigation, review, disposition, and discipline.
“Protecting the civil rights of all Americans and building trust between law enforcement and the communities they serve are among the Justice Department’s most important responsibilities,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This investigation, like all of our pattern or practice investigations, will seek to promote the transparency, accountability, and public trust that is essential to public safety.”
“Every American, regardless of race, has the right to constitutional policing,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Based on an extensive review of publicly available information and information provided to us, we find significant justification to investigate whether Louisiana State Police engages in excessive force and engages in racially discriminatory policing against Black residents and other people of color. The Justice Department stands ready to use every tool in our arsenal to confront allegations of misconduct and to ensure legitimacy during encounters with law enforcement.”
"We cannot ignore any allegation of a constitutional violation much less, one alleging a pattern or pratice of unconstitutional policing," stated U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana. "No one should be deprived of the protections of our federal and state constitutions. We are all equal under the law and entitled to just, efficient, consistent, and constitutional law enforcement."
Middle District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney Gathe stated, “Today, this administration will give its best effort into looking into the patterns and practices of the Louisiana State Police and hope to renew faith in the system and provide justice for all.”
“In times of attempting to resolve controversy and conflict, the parties involved must get comfortable having uncomfortable conversations. Today, the US Department of Justice has pledged to be a conduit between the Louisiana State Police and community stakeholders, so that open lines of communication can start flowing and any concerns will not fall on deaf ears,” stated Western District U.S. Attorney Brandon Brown.
The investigation is being conducted pursuant to the Violent Crime Control and Law Enforcement Act of 1994, which prohibits state and local governments from engaging in a pattern or practice of conduct by law enforcement officers that deprives individuals of rights protected by the Constitution or federal law. The statute allows the department to remedy such misconduct through civil litigation. The department will be assessing law enforcement practices under the Fourth and Fourteenth Amendments to the United States Constitution, as well as under the Safe Streets Act of 1968 and Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964.
The investigation is separate from any federal criminal investigation of LSP troopers.
Prior to the announcement, department officials informed Governor John Bel Edwards, Colonel Lamar Davis, and Deputy General Counsel Gail Holland of the investigation. They pledged to cooperate with the investigation. As part of this investigation, the department officials will reach out to community groups and members of the public to learn about their experiences with LSP.
The Special Litigation Section of the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern, Middle, and Western Districts of Louisiana will jointly conduct this investigation. Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Department of Justice via email at [email protected] or by phone at (202) 353-0684. Individuals can also report civil rights violations regarding this or other matters using the Civil Rights Division’s reporting portal, available at civilrights.justice.gov.
Information specific to the Civil Rights Division’s Police Reform Work can be found here: /media/872116/dl?inline.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Theft of More than $40,000 in Social Security FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOHN EDWARD JONES, age 42, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty to Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
According to court documents, beginning around July 2015 and continuing through March 2020, JONES collected Social Security Administration benefits paid to a deceased individual. In total, JONES fraudulently received approximately $40,361.00 in Social Security Administration benefits to which he was not entitled.
JONES faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) 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. U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter set sentencing for September 8, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni.
New Orleans Resident Sentenced to 120 Months for Possessing a Loaded Ak-47 and for Possessing with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine Found Hidden on His Body at JailRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that Judge Wendy B. Vitter sentenced BLAKE MONROE on June 2, 2022, to 120 months in prison, three (3) years of supervised release, and $200 in mandatory special assessment fees for being a felon in possession of a loaded AK-47 seized during a New Orleans Police Department traffic stop and for possessing with intent to distribute a quantity of crack cocaine.
MONROE, age 31, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on November 3, 2021, to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), and to the crack cocaine offense, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). MONROE has prior felony convictions in Orleans Parish.
According to court records, during a December 11, 2019, traffic stop, NOPD officers observed in plain sight a loaded AK-47, with the selector switch in the fire position, on the back floor of a Mercedes driven by MONROE. NOPD officers had pulled MONROE over after two NOPD officers observed MONROE conduct a suspected hand-to-hand crack sale in New Orleans East. During his booking at jail that same afternoon, an Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy found approximately 24 grams of crack cocaine that MONROE had hidden on his body.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Hammond Police Department, New Orleans Police Department, and Slidell Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Howard Sinkman is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute DrugsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MARK RICHBURG, age 40, of New Orleans, was sentenced on June 2, 2022 by United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, 100 grams or more of heroin, and a quantity of cocaine base, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846.
According to court records, RICHBURG and others conspired to distribute multiple kilograms of cocaine and heroin in the New Orleans area. Additionally, RICHBURG arranged for the transport of multiple kilograms of cocaine and heroin between Texas and New Orleans.
Judge Fallon sentenced RICHBURG to 292 months of imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera and Jonathan L. Shih are in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl, Heroin and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LAWRENCE ROBERTSON (“ROBERTSON”), age 37, pled guilty on June 2, 2022 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846; one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); and one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
According to court documents, on September 11, 2018, ROBERTSON possessed over 40 grams of fentanyl, quantities of heroin, and a Glock Model 27, .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol.
On the drug conspiracy count, ROBERTSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to 40 years of imprisonment, at least 4 years of supervised release, a fine of up to $4,000,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. On the firearm count, ROBERTSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to life imprisonment, up to 5 years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.
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Mexican National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane Evans announced today that on June 2, 2022 ALFREDO ERASMO CASTILLO-MORALES, age 32, was charged 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, ALFREDO ERASMO CASTILLO-MORALES (“CASTILLO-MORALES”), reentered the United States after he was previously deported on November 1, 2019. If convicted, CASTILLO-MORALES 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. Duane 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. is in charge of the prosecution.
Houston Resident Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ALEJANDRO MUNOZ, age 41, a resident of Houston, Texas, pled guilty on June 2, 2022 before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to a one-count indictment that charged him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin and five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, beginning in October of 2014, Special Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration identified MUNOZ as a supplier of heroin and cocaine hydrochloride to customers in Houston, Texas and New Orleans. As a result of his plea, MUNOZ faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten years, a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration offices in New Orleans, Louisiana and Houston, Texas, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Houma Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that NICOLE COCKERHAM (“COCKERHAM”), age 42, of Houma, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 2, 2022 to Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
According to documents filed in federal court, from March 2019 to July 2020, COCKERHAM knowingly converted approximately $38,851.00 in Social Security Administration and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES ACT”) funds.
COCKERHAM faces a maximum penalty of 10 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. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for September 13, 2022, before United States District Judge Wendy D. Vitter.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, and the Treasury Inspection General for Tax Administration with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on June 1, 2022, TRAVIS GIBSON, 48, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C).
GIBSON conspired to distribute methamphetamine throughout Jefferson Parish and the surrounding areas for over a year.
At sentencing, GIBSON faces up to a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years, a maximum fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count, pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C).
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Kenner Police Department, Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, and St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Nolan Paige, André Jones, and Melissa Bücher.
Tickfaw Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing False IRS ReturnsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – CHERYL L. KINCHEN, age 40, a resident of Tickfaw, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on May 31, 2022 to two counts of filing false tax returns, in her personal capacity, before U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
According to court records, KINCHEN, the owner/operator of Beyond Blessed Tax Services, prepared false tax returns in 2015 and 2017 for her own personal taxes, by significantly underreporting the gross income she earned as a tax preparer for those time periods.
Sentencing is set for August 30, 2022. KINCHEN faces a maximum sentence of three years, up to one year of supervised release, up to a $100,000 fine and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for the filing of false tax returns.
U.S. Attorney Evans commended the special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation for their handling of the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera.
Orleans Parish Woman Pleads Guilty to Theft of More than $61,000 in Social Security FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CATHERINE CAMPBELL WILLIAMS, age 69, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on May 31, 2022 to Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
According to court documents, beginning in December 2010 and continuing through 2020, WILLIAMS collected Social Security Administration benefits paid to a deceased relative. In total, WILLIAMS fraudulently received approximately $61,324 in Social Security Administration benefits to which she was not entitled.
WILLIAMS faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) 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. U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry set sentencing for August 30, 2022.
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.
New Orleans Man Sentenced on Carjacking and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant KAHLIQ WILLIAMS, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on May 31, 2022 by U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry to a total term of 164 months. As to Counts 1, 3, and 4 the Court sentenced WILLIAMS to 80 months of imprisonment, to be served concurrently with each other. As to Count 2, WILLIAMS was sentenced to a term of 84 months, to be served consecutively to the terms imposed on each of Counts 1, 3, and 4. Additionally, upon release from imprisonment, Judge Guidry ordered that WILLIAMS shall be on supervised release for a term of 5 years which consists of 3 years as to Counts 1, 3 and 4, and 5 years as to Count 2, such terms to run concurrently with each other. Finally, WILLIAMS was ordered to pay a total of $400 in mandatory special assessment fees on Counts One, Two, Three, and Four of the six-count indictment.
Counts One and Four of the indictment charged WILLIAMS with two separate carjackings, both in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Count 2 charged WILLIAMS with brandishing 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)(ii). Finally, Count Three charged WILLIAMS with burglary of a federal firearms licensee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(u).
According to filed documents, WILLIAMS pled guilty to two carjackings which occurred on April 16, 2020, and May 19, 2020. Both carjackings occurred in New Orleans, and in both instances, WILLIAMS admitted to taking the vehicles from the respective victims while brandishing a firearm during the commission of the carjackings. Additionally, on April 17, 2020, at approximately 1:16 AM, deputies with St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to C&S Gun Parlor in Covington, LA in response to a burglary alarm. C&S Gun Parlor is designated as a federal firearm licensee. Deputies arrived to find the front entrance damaged. Specifically, deputies noted that it appeared that a vehicle had rammed the front entrance. Investigators reviewed surveillance video footage from the interior and exterior of the store and observed a Chevrolet pick-up truck drive the rear end of the vehicle through the front entrance of the business, breaking a poll, glass doors, glass windows, and the metal gate. Three individuals wearing hoodies, masks, gloves, exited the vehicle and proceeded to throw rifles and handguns into the bed of the pick-up truck. Forty-five (45) total weapons were stolen from the store. WILLIAMS was eventually arrested in Jefferson Parish and several of the stolen firearms were found in his possession. In addition to admitting his role in the respective carjackings, he also admitted his participation in the burglary of the gun store.
This case was being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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 of the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Hammond Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing False IRS Returns, Making False Statements to IRS and Department of EducationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – KENISHA R. CALLAHAN, age 44, and a resident of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to one count of filing a false tax return, one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return and one count of making a false statement to the Department of Education, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, Count One alleges that CALLAHAN, the owner of Callahan Tax Service, prepared and filed a false 2015 U.S. Individual Tax Return Form 1040, wherein she underreported her earned income for the alleged time. Count Two charges that in 2015, CALLAHAN aided in the preparation and filing of a client’s tax return that falsely stated to the IRS that the client owned a business and that the client had a business loss for the 2014 tax year. Count Three alleges that CALLAHAN committed financial aid fraud by falsely reporting the amount of income that she earned in 2015 to the Department of Education while applying for student loan forgiveness.
Sentencing will be on September 7, 2022, at which time CALLAHAN faces a maximum sentence of three years, up to one year of supervised release, and up to a $100,000 fine per tax count. The Department of Education count calls for a maximum sentence of five years, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine. For each count, there is also a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans commended the special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Department of Education for their handling of the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera.
Gonzales Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KEITH JENKINS, age 35, of Gonzales, pled guilty as charged on May 31, 2022 to a two count indictment, that charged him with participating in a conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of Title 21, United States Code Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846 and the possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of Title 21, United States Code Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B).
JENKINS will be sentenced on August 30, 2022 and will face a sentence of ten (10) years up to life in prison, a fine of not more than $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee on the conspiracy charge and from five (5) up to forty (40) years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000.00, at least four (4) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for the possession with the intent to distribute charge.
This case was investigated by members of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr.
Slidell Man Charged with Possession of Files Depicting the Sexual Victimization of ChildrenRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BROCK TAYLOR GUILLOT, age 24, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged on Thursday, May 26, 2022, by a federal grand jury sitting in the Eastern District of Louisiana in a one-count indictment with possession of images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children under the age of twelve years old, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 2252(a)(4)(B).
GUILLOT faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years. GUILLOT also faces up to a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, a mandatory $100 special assessment fee, and he can be required to register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys= Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Orleans Parish Man Sentenced on Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant JAMAL BAZLEY, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on May 26, 2022 by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to 80 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to Count Two of a three-count indictment.
Count Two charged BAZLEY with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(a)(2). According to court documents, on June 2, 2020, investigators arrested BAZLEY and his co-defendant for being felons in possession of firearms. Law enforcement attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by BAZLEY; however, he refused to stop and fled into the parking lot of a Home Depot located near the intersection of S. Claiborne Ave. and Earhart Blvd in New Orleans, LA. The vehicle proceeded into the gated parking lot, and attempted to evade law enforcement. BAZLEY and the two other vehicle occupants exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Once the scene was secure, investigators observed a rifle and two handguns within the immediate area of the vehicle, as well as ski masks and a pair of gloves on the front passenger floorboard of the vehicle.
This case was being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U. S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigations. 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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Orleans Parish Man Indicted for Violation of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RONNIE DAVIS, age 27, a resident of Orleans Parish, was charged on May 26, 2022 in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury for possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon, announced U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, DAVIS, knowing that he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year in the State of Louisiana, did knowingly possess two firearms, a Taurus 9 mm handgun and a Century Arms "Draco" style 7.62 rifle.
If convicted, DAVIS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
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.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Mike Trummel.
ODAI Wireless, LLC Pleads Guilty to Copyright InfringementRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ODAI WIRELESS, LLC d/b/a ELITE WIRELESS, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on May 26, 2022 before U.S. Magistrate Judge Donna Phillips Currault to one-count of copyright infringement.
According to court records, ODAI WIRELESS, LLC, d/b/a “ELITE WIRELESS” infringed the copyright of three fashion designers, Gucci, Supreme and Burberry, when it attempted to import for resale and distribution approximately 1,200 counterfeit cloth masks without the authorization of the three fashion designer copyright holders.
ODAI WIRELESS, LLC, d/b/a “ELITE WIRELESS” faces a fine of up to $200,000.00 or up to twice the gross gain or twice the gross loss to any victim. There is also a $125.00 mandatory special assessment fee due after conviction. Sentencing is scheduled for September 7, 2022 before Judge Currault.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Misuse of a Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CESAR LOPEZ-MATA (LOPEZ-MATA), age 27, a citizen of Guatemala, pled guilty on May 26, 2022 before U.S. District Court Judge Barry W. Ashe to a one count bill of information charging him with misuse of a Social Security Number, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
According to court documents, LOPEZ-MATA, a citizen of Guatemala, presented a false Social Security card when attending a pre-employment safety class at the Gulf Coast Safety Council in St. Rose, Louisiana. LOPEZ-MATA falsely represented that a social security number was assigned to him when in fact, the social security number had been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to an another individual.
LOPEZ-MATA faces a possible sentence of up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to one (1) year of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing is set for August 18, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Office of the Inspector General, Social Security Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Weapons ViolationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on Thursday, May 26, 2022, that DEAMONTE BROWN, age 21, resident of New Orleans, LA, pled guilty as charged on May 26, 2022 to a one-count indictment for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Specifically, BROWN is charged with possessing two firearms on June 10, 2021, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2), and 2. BROWN faces a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. Sentencing is scheduled for August 18, 2022.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice's violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit of the U.S. Attorney's Office.
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Jamaican National Sentenced to 10 Months in Prison for Mail and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ACDANE CAMPBELL, age 25, a resident of Jamaica, was sentenced on May 26, 2022 by U.S. District Court Judge Susie Morgan to serve 10 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to a one count indictment for Conspiracy to Commit Mail and Wire Fraud.
According to the indictment, from in or around August 2016, CAMPBELL and others, conspired to obtain money unlawfully by falsely informing elderly victims that they had won a lottery, sweepstakes, or car. The unidentified co-conspirators telephoned the victims, promising them that they would receive their winnings if they first paid taxes and fees.
After being instructed by the unidentified co-conspirators that they needed to send payments to CAMPBELL, the victims would send their payments electronically through either a money services business, FedEx or the United States Postal Service. Working as a “money mule,” CAMPBELL either kept the money that he received from the victims or sent it to unknown persons in Jamaica.
In addition to incarceration, CAMPBELL was sentenced to 1 year of supervised release, ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100, to perform 100 hours of community service, and to pay restitution in the amount of $107,747.97. He is also subject to deportation to Jamaica after incarceration.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed seven days a week from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. eastern time. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera.
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California Man Sentenced for Violation of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SHAMSID-DEEN HABEEBULLAH, age 45, a resident of California, was sentenced on May 26, 2022 to 46 months of incarceration for possessing a firearm while being a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
On February 14, 2021, HABEEBULLAH entered a gun range in St. Bernard Parish and rented two firearms before firing them at the range. Prior to renting the firearms, HABEEBULLAH filled out a waiver stating that he had not been convicted of a felony and was not otherwise prohibited from possessing a firearm. However, HABEEBUALLAH has been convicted six times in the past, including once for bank robbery and twice for drug distribution.
HABEEBULLAH will be under supervised release for two (2) years following his term of incarceration and was also assessed a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime
The case was investigated by the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Two More New Orleans Area Defendants Sentenced for Conspiring to Stage Automobile Collisions in Order to Defraud Insurance and Trucking CompaniesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on May 25, 2022 DONIESHA GIBSON (“GIBSON”), age 31, of New Orleans, Louisiana and ERICA LEE THOMPSON (“ERICA LEE”), age 47, of Harvey, Louisiana, were sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile collisions with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans.
According to documents filed in federal court, GIBSON and ERICA LEE, along with their co-conspirators and others, beginning in approximately as early as 2015 and continuing through the present, conspired to commit wire fraud in connection with staged accidents, including two that occurred on October 15, 2015, and September 6, 2017. Thus far, the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” is thirty-seven (37).
GIBSON admitted to being a passenger in a staged accident on October 15, 2015. On that day, her former co-defendant intentionally drove a 2014 Dodge Avenger owned by GIBSON into a Hotard bus while traveling on the I-10 near the flyover of the I-510. GIBSON retained an attorney and thereafter made a claim for damages. The total settlement for the Hotard bus accident was approximately $677,500.00.
ERICA LEE admitted that on September 6, 2017, on the I-10 near the Almonaster exit, she was a passenger in a 2015 RAV4 being driven by their former co-defendant, when he intentionally crashed into a tractor-trailer owned by Averitt Express. ERICA LEE retained counsel and made a claim for damages. The total settlement for the Averitt accident was $30,000.
In total, the victim trucking, bus, and insurance companies paid out approximately $707,500.00 for these two fraudulent claims orchestrated by the defendants and others.
United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced GIBSON to seventeen (17) months incarceration, followed by a three(3) year term of supervised release, restitution in the amount of $677,500.00, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. THOMPSON was sentenced to three (3) years probation, restitution in the amount of $121,076.75, 100 hours of community service, and a $100.00 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 Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera; Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Long.
Orleans Parish Woman Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison for Credit Card Conspiracy and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LAKISHA WILLIAMS, age 41, of New Orleans, was sentenced today to nine years in prison by U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe for charges stemming from her participation in a credit card fraud ring that operated in the New Orleans area. WILLIAMS had previously pleaded guilty to four counts of the third superseding indictment: conspiracy to commit access device fraud, possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices, possession of device-making equipment, and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, WILLIAMS and her co-defendants engaged in a scheme to obtain merchandise and cash from stores through fraud. The defendants obtained stolen credit and debit card information, encoded it onto cards, and then used that information to purchase merchandise at stores. The defendants would then return the items at a different store of the same chain, but they would deceive store workers to have the chargeback credited to their own bank accounts.
Court documents also detail how WILLIAMS took flights with other co-conspirators to perform fraudulent transactions in various cities in the United States, including Charleston, South Carolina; Chicago, Illinois; Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; St. Louis, Missouri; Richmond, Virginia; and Charlotte, North Carolina. WILLIAMS had pleaded guilty and admitted to causing losses between $150,000.00 and $250,000.00 through her own conduct and that of her co-conspirators.
For conspiracy to commit access device fraud, Judge Ashe sentenced WILLIAMS to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release. As to the charge of possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices, Judge Ashe sentenced WILLIAMS to 84 months in prison and three years of supervised release. For the charge of possession of device making equipment, Judge Ashe sentenced WILLIAMS to 84 months in prison and three years of supervised release. All these sentences were ordered to run concurrently. For aggravated identity theft, Judge Ashe sentenced WILLIAMS to a mandatory two-year term in prison to be served consecutively to her other sentences, as well as a term of supervised release of one year to run concurrently with the other terms of supervised release. WILLIAMS was also required to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 per count. A restitution hearing to receive any evidence of additional restitution was set by Judge Ashe for August 4, 2022.
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates that those, like Ms. Williams, who engage in fraudulent schemes that prey on the finances of innocent victims and businesses within our community will be held accountable.” said Leslie Pichon, U.S. Secret Service New Orleans Special Agent in Charge.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the agencies that contributed to this conviction, which represents a coordinated effort of federal and state law enforcement authorities within the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force. The Task Force includes representatives from the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, Covington Police Department, Hammond Police Department, Kenner Police Department, Louisiana State Police, Mandeville Police Department, Slidell Police Department, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John The Baptist Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. State Department, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. U.S. Attorney Evans also thanked the Franklin (TN) Police Department, the Mobile Police Department, the Gulfport Police Department, the Minnetonka (MN) Police Department, the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office, and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew R. Payne and K. Paige O’Hale are in charge of the prosecution.
Orleans Parish Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that TYREE JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 23, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced on May 25, 2022 for conspiracy to commit mail fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. The Honorable Ivan Lemelle sentenced JOHNSON to five years probation, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, and payment of $178,409.00 in restitution.
According to the court documents, JIMMIE JAMES (“JAMES”) conspired with JOHNSON, an employee of United Parcel Service (UPS), to steal shipments of Apple iPhones from the UPS Customer Service Center where JOHNSON worked. JOHNSON would over-label boxes of iPhones destined for AT&T Mobility stores with a shipping label provided to him by JAMES. These shipping labels would cause the boxes of iPhones to be redirected to JAMES’s home or that of an unidentified co-conspirator living in Chalmette. As a reward for over-labeling the packages, JAMES paid JOHNSON at least $3,500 through the Zelle payment application.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Houston Resident Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud OffenseRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JIMMIE JAMES (“JAMES”), age 33, a resident of Houston, was sentenced on May 25, 2022 for conspiracy to commit mail fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. The Honorable Ivan Lemelle sentenced JAMES to thirty (30) months in prison, three (3) years of supervised release, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, and payment of $178,409.00 in restitution.
According to court documents, JAMES conspired with TYREE JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), an employee with United Parcel Service (UPS), to steal shipments of Apple iPhones from the UPS Customer Service Center where JOHNSON worked. JOHNSON would over-label boxes of iPhones destined for AT&T Mobility stores with a shipping label provided to him by JAMES. These shipping labels would cause the boxes of iPhones to be redirected to JAMES’s home or an unidentified co-conspirator living in Chalmette. As a reward for over-labeling the packages, JAMES paid JOHNSON at least $3,500 through the Zelle payment application.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Covington Woman Sentenced for Theft of Social Security FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that HAYDEE ARMAS SANTANA (“SANTANA”), age 58, of Covington, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
According to documents filed in federal court, beginning in 2015, SANTANA filed for, and became eligible for, Social Security Supplemental Security Income (“SSI”) disability payments. SANTANA’s SSI application concealed an Iberia Bank account and her ownership in at least two additional pieces of real property, including one located in Miramar Beach, FL. In total, SANTANA fraudulently obtained over $31,000.00 in Social Security Administration SSI disability benefits.
U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe sentenced SANTANA to 5 years probation, Home Detention for 6 months, $31,060.61 in Restitution, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
California Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – STEPHEN LUONG, age 62, a resident of Oakland, California, was sentenced on May 25, 2022 by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to one-hundred twenty (120) months imprisonment, five (5) years of supervised release, and $200.00 in mandatory special assessment fees after pleading guilty to two (2) counts of a twenty-four count superseding indictment that charged him with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute One Thousand Kilograms or More of Marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846, and Possession with Intent to Distribute One Hundred Kilograms or More of Marijuana, 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 July 2019, a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division Agent received information regarding a large-scale marijuana distribution ring in the metro area. Additional investigation by agents revealed that on July 26, 2019, LUONG rented a storage facility in Metairie, Louisiana which he used to store marijuana and proceeds from the sale of marijuana. In September of 2019, agents conducting surveillance at the facility observed LUONG deposit a bag in one of the storage units. A subsequent traffic stop of LUONG after he exited the facility resulted in the seizure of $395,101.00 in cash. In a post-arrest statement, LUONG admitted that he traveled by air to various states to transport money. As agents continued their investigation, they learned that between June 2019 and August 2019, LUONG routinely shipped hundreds of pounds of marijuana from Oakland, California to the Eastern District of Louisiana, then traveled to New Orleans to obtain the proceeds of the sold marijuana and return to Oakland.
This prosecution was part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
This case was investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by former Assistant United States Attorney Mobayonle Osundare and Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Slidell Woman Charged with Misappropriating Veteran’s FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SLOANE SIGNAL-DEBOSE, age 51, a resident of Slidell, was charged on May 23, 2022 with misappropriating funds from a veteran while SIGNAL was the veteran’s fiduciary.
The government filed a one-count bill of information that charged SIGNAL with misappropriation by a veteran’s fiduciary, in violation of Title 38, United States Code, Section 6101. According to the bill of information, from 2016 until 2018 SIGNAL was a fiduciary for a veteran who needed assistance with the management of his affairs, and she had control over the veteran’s finances and bank accounts. During that time, SIGNAL took over $100,000 from the veteran’s accounts and used it as the down payment on a home for SIGNAL that was only in SIGNAL’s name. SIGNAL also used additional funds from the veteran to pay contractors working on SIGNAL’s home. SIGNAL then submitted false records to the Department of Veteran’s Affairs to hide her misuse of the veteran’s funds.
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.
If convicted, SIGNAL faces up to five years in prison. SIGNAL also faces up to three years of supervised release after release from prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to SIGNAL or the gross loss to any victims, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.
Ship Owner and Operator Plead Guilty to Environmental and Safety CrimesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Empire Bulkers Limited and Joanna Maritime Limited, related companies based in Greece, pleaded guilty today to knowing violations of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships and the Ports and Waterways Safety Act related to the Motor Vessel Joanna.
The guilty pleas took place today in federal court in New Orleans, Louisiana, before U.S. District Court Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon. If the proposed plea agreement is approved by the Court, the companies will be fined $2 million ($1 million each), and serve four years of probation subject to the terms of an environmental compliance plan that includes independent ship audits and supervision by a Court Appointed Monitor.
“Deliberate violation of environmental and safety laws pose a serious threat to U.S. ports and waters, as well as to those working on ships,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “These corporations knowingly engaged in dangerous and deceitful misconduct that warrants robust enforcement of the law.”
“This prosecution sends a clear and deterrent message that those who cut corners and break the law will be vigorously prosecuted,” said U.S. Attorney Duane Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “These companies will be under close supervision going forward.”
In pleading guilty, Empire Bulkers and Joanna Maritime admitted to knowingly falsifying the ship’s Oil Record Book, a required log, that concealed overboard discharges of oil contaminated waste made in violation of MARPOL, an international treaty to which the United States is a party. The criminal violation of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships was discovered by a U.S. Coast Guard inspector who noticed that a valve handle used to sample the oil content of overboard discharges was out of position during a March 2021 inspection in New Orleans, according to a joint factual statement filed in court. A metal piece found welded inside enabled overboard discharges to occur while the sample being evaluated by the Oil Content Monitor was being diluted with fresh water. A Coast Guard advisory issued in 2008 as well as a notice from the manufacturer of the monitor warned about this exact method of tricking the Oil Content Monitor. Overboard discharges are only permissible if they are processed through an Oily Water Separator and measured by the Oil Content Monitor to contain a concentration of oil less than 15 parts per million without dilution. The entries made in the Oil Record Book relating to overboard discharges and presented to the Coast Guard falsely indicated that discharges had occurred through 15 ppm equipment. The ship owner and operator also admitted that discharge entries in the Oil Record Book had been co-signed by an engineer that did not have anything to do with the operations or have knowledge of their accuracy.
The Coast Guard discovered an unreported safety hazard during the same inspection. After Coast Guard was on the vessel, ship representatives sought permission to maneuver from the Bonnet Carre Anchorage to the CCI Buoys further upriver where cargo operations were scheduled to take place. Coast Guard inspectors travelling with the ship during the voyage noticed drops of oil in the engine room. They followed the trail of oil which led near the purifier room. When they looked inside, ,the purifier room, the Coast Guard discovered that the discharge line from the pressure relief valves had been disconnected and crimped closed thus disabling both pressure relief valves. The safety relief valves on the fuel oil heaters serve a critical safety function because they allow pressure to be released and oil diverted to a waste oil tank. In papers filed in court, the defendants admitted that the plugging of the relief valves and the large volume of oil leaking from the pressure relief valve presented hazardous conditions that had not been immediately reported to the Coast Guard in violation of the Ports and Waterways Safety Act. Had there been a fire or explosion in the purifier room, it could have been catastrophic and resulted in a loss of propulsion, loss of life, and pollution, according to the factual statement.
Owner of the Taxman Financial Services Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Aiding in Filing False TaxesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LEROI G. JACKSON, age 50, of New Orleans, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to three (3) years in prison for aiding and assisting in the filing of false federal tax returns, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 7206(2). JACKSON previously pleaded guilty to this charge, which stems from his operation of The Taxman Financial Services LLC (“Taxman”), a business that prepared federal and state tax returns for customers and had offices in New Orleans and LaPlace, among other locations.
According to court records, federal agents determined that JACKSON filed false income tax returns for numerous Taxman customers. For example, JACKSON would create false business losses or false education credits, all without his clients’ knowledge. JACKSON had several employees obtain an IRS Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN), which allowed the employees to file customer taxes. However, many of these employees never used their EFINs. Instead, JACKSON would use his employees’ EFINs to file false tax returns for customers. JACKSON profited by charging customers at least $500 per return, which would be deducted from the customer’s refund. From tax years 2014 through 2016, JACKSON admitted that he caused a tax loss to the United States of $241,214.00.
“Today, Mr. Jackson admitted to owning a tax preparation business that blatantly ignored the tax laws by preparing false tax returns and misusing his electronic filing privileges,” said Special Agent in Charge James E. Dorsey, Atlanta Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Dishonest return preparers use a variety of methods to cheat the government, including falsifying information on the tax returns to generate larger refunds for their clients. Criminal Investigation will continue to ensure that all tax practitioners, tax preparers and others who practice in the tax law profession adhere to professional standards and follow the law.”
In addition to the three-year term of imprisonment, Judge Morgan sentenced JACKSON to one year of supervised release. He is also required to pay restitution to the United States totaling $241,214.00 as well as a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. As part of his plea, JACKSON agreed to a permanent injunction that prohibits him from ever preparing tax returns for any other taxpayer.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, which handled this investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew R. Payne and K. Paige O’Hale handled the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Four Carjackings and Four Violations of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – WAYNE ONEAL, age 20, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty to an eight-count (8) bill of information for four carjackings, and four counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
For each count of carjacking, ONEAL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
For each count of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, ONEAL faces a minimum term of imprisonment of seven (7) years, up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, to be run consecutive to each other, and all other counts, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders works together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives along with the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to 262 Months for Conspiring to Distribute HeroinRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on May 19, 2022 Judge Susie Morgan sentenced ARTHUR JOHNSON, age 45, of New Orleans, Louisiana, to 262 months of imprisonment, five (5) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for conspiring to distribute more than one kilogram or more of a mixture or substance containing heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846.
According to court records, on December 27, 2017, FBI Special Agents from the New Orleans Gang Task Force received information regarding the pending delivery of approximately three kilograms of heroin that JOHNSON was purchasing from his Chicago-based supplier. Later that day, surveillance agents observed meetings between JOHNSON and the man delivering the heroin at a Holiday Inn Hotel in New Orleans. During these meetings, JOHNSON paid approximately $187,000 for the heroin.
The next day, FBI agents searched the home in New Orleans East that JOHNSON shared with co-defendant Annice Falkins. During this search, the agents seized 1.3 kilograms of heroin, over $11,000 in cash, numerous items of jewelry, six cell phones, a money counter, and a kilogram press used to package heroin.
JOHNSON and Annice Falkins pled guilty on August 24, 2021. Pursuant to his plea agreement, JOHNSON agreed to forfeit a Mercedes Benz car, $11,543.00 in United States currency, a Rolex watch with about 17.45 carats of diamonds, and five pieces of diamond encrusted jewelry. Falkins is scheduled to be sentenced on July 2, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the FBI in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys David Howard Sinkman and Brandon Long are in charge of the prosecution.
Houma Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARRIUS NEVILLE, age 26, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, was charged May 5, 2022, in a one-count sealed indictment by a federal grand jury with distribution of heroin in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. The indictment was unsealed on May 12, 2022.
If convicted, NEVILLE faces a statutory minimum sentence of five years, up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers.
Felon Pleads Guilty as Charged to Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 19, 2022, ANTHONY PITTMAN, age 33 of Metairie, Louisiana, pleaded guilty as charged to a three-count indictment. Count 1 charged the defendant with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); Count 2 charged him with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and Count 3 charged him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
According to court documents, PITTMAN was previously convicted drug trafficking, among other felony firearm and drug offenses in Jefferson Parish. Due to these convictions, it is unlawful for him to possess a firearm. He is now convicted of possessing multiple firearms and possessing with the intent to distribute a cocaine, cocaine base (“crack”), and heroin. He was apprehended after a high-speed chase during an attempted traffic stop on October 4, 2020 in Westwego, Louisiana. The drugs were found in two camouflage bags which were originally seen by officers inside the car but thrown on the side of the road as the defendant tried to escape. Additional evidence consistent with drug trafficking was found in the center console of the vehicle.
For Count 1 of the indictment, PITTMAN faces a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, a minimum of three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. For Count 2, he faces a minimum term of five (5) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment to run consecutive to all other sentences, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to five (5) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. For Count 3, he faces a maximum of ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Westwego Police department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles D. Strauss is in charge of the prosecution.
Union Financial Secretary Charged with Stealing Union FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, – BRIAN GERALD, age 50, a resident of Franklinton, Louisiana, was charged today in a one count indictment for embezzling assets of a local labor union in violation of Title 29, United States Code, Section 501(c), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, GERALD held the position of Financial Secretary of United Steelworkers Local 13-189. According to the indictment, from on or about May 25, 2018 and continuing through on or about September 8, 2020, GERALD embezzled $112,594.18 from the union account.
If convicted, GERALD faces a up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000, up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Department of Labor in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Rachal Cassagne is in charge of the prosecution.
Kenner Man Sentenced for Airline Baggage Scam Involving over $550,000 in False ClaimsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that PERNELL ANTHONY JONES, JR., age 32, of Kenner, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349 and Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341 and one count of Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections1341 and 2.
According to court documents, beginning in or around 2015, JONES took flights with commercial airlines under false or fictitious identities using fraudulent identification cards. When he arrived at the destination airport, JONES falsely claimed that his baggage was lost and requested reimbursement to compensate him for his lost luggage. Through this scheme, JONES and his co-conspirators submitted over 180 false claims to commercial airlines, including American, Alaska, Southwest, United, and JetBlue, requesting over $550,000 in reimbursement. In total, the airlines paid over $300,000 in fraudulent claims.
JONES’s plea documents state that, on April 7, 2018, JONES was arrested at Dallas Love Airport while attempting to go through screening by the Transportation Security Administration (“TSA”) with 36 fraudulent driver’s licenses and 47 credit cards under fictitious names. On March 5, 2020, JONES was arrested again while attempting to pick up a reimbursement check for a fraudulent baggage claim at Louis Armstrong International Airport in Kenner, Louisiana. Law enforcement searched JONES’s residence on March 5, 2020 and found 34 fraudulent driver’s licenses; 21 fake work identification cards; and a number of fraudulent airline employee badges containing JONES’s photograph.
U. S. District Court Judge Susie Morgan sentenced JONES to serve 46 months in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. JONES was also ordered to pay restitution to the victim airlines in the amount of $327,451.61. Judge Morgan also imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 per count for a total of $200.
"This sentencing demonstrates the steadfast work of the FBI and our partners in bringing to justice individuals like Mr. Pernell Anthony Jones, Jr., who engaged in fraudulent criminal activity and compromised national security for his own financial gain," said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams, Jr. "We would like to thank our state and federal partners including the United States Attorney’s Office, Department of Homeland Security, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the City of Dallas Police Department for their strong partnerships in disrupting this criminal enterprise.
U.S. Attorney Evans would like to acknowledge the investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the City of Dallas Police Department. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni.
Honduran National Charged with Illegally Using a Social Security Number Belonging to Another IndividualRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ELTON JOHN MEJIA EUCEDA, age 22, a citizen of Honduras, was indicted today for illegally using a social security number belonging to another individual, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
The maximum penalty for the offense is five years imprisonment, followed by up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to the victim, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
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 Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II is in charge of the prosecution.
Guilty Verdict Returned Against a Former Employee of the Department of Energy’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve in Connection with a Scheme to Defraud the United StatesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans and Jonathan Kanter, Assistant Attorney General for the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice, announced that JOHNNY C. GUILLORY, SR., age 72, of Opelousas, Louisiana, was found guilty as charged on May 18, 2022 following a three-day jury trial before the Honorable Mary Ann Vial Lemmon.
The jury found GUILLORY guilty as charged in the indictment with conspiracy to defraud the United States and to violate the Procurement Integrity Act as well as making false statements to federal agents, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 371 and 1001, respectively.
“The Strategic Petroleum Reserve is one of our nation’s vital programs, and collusion that destroys the integrity of the procurement process for government contracts will not be tolerated,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Today’s guilty verdict demonstrates that people who corrupt that process, defraud the United States, and lie about it will be held accountable. The Antitrust Division will continue to vigorously prosecute offenses that undermine competition and work with our law enforcement partners to protect taxpayer dollars.”
“This guilty verdict sends a clear message that our office, along with our federal partners will vigorously investigate and prosecute all violations of our Nation’s laws, said U.S. Attorney of the Eastern District of Louisiana, Duane A. Evans.”
According to the indictment, GUILLORY conspired with Cajan Welding & Rentals, Ltd. to defraud the United States by corrupting and impairing the government procurement process, and by obtaining non-public pricing and cost information in order to obtain subcontract awards and payments from the U.S. Department of Energy in connection with its operation of the nation’s Strategic Petroleum Reserve. From 2002 until 2016, Cajan was awarded over 50 subcontracts and received payments in excess of $15,000,000.00 from the U.S. Department of Energy, during which time GUILLORY received financial benefits from Cajan.
GUILLORY will be sentenced on September 8, 2022 and faces a maximum term of five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to a three year term of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment of $200.00, as to each count.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey N. Knight of the United States Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorneys Megan S. Lewis and Julia Maloney of the Department of Justice Antitrust Division’s Washington Criminal II Section. The investigation was conducted by the Department of Energy’s Office of the Inspector General.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Slidell Man for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RAYMOND BAYONA, age 32, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged today in a one-count indictment for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
If convicted, BAYONA faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
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 being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Slidell Police Department, St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, and the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne is in charge of the prosecution.
Ship Chief Engineer Pleads Guilty to Intentional Discharge of Oily Waste and Obstruction of Justice Charges in New OrleansRead the Press Release
The Chief Engineer of a foreign flagged vessel pleaded guilty today to two felony counts for deliberately discharging approximately 10,000 gallons of oil-contaminated bilge water overboard in U.S. waters off the coast of New Orleans last year and then trying to obstruct the Coast Guard’s investigation of the spill. The illegal conduct was first reported to the Coast Guard by a crew member via social media.
Kirill Kompaniets, a Russian national and the Chief Engineer of the ship, a commercial bulk carrier registered in the Marshall Islands, was charged with the illegal discharge in violation of the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships. According to papers filed in Court, repair operations were underway to correct a problem with the discharge of clean ballast water when a valve burst and the engine room flooded. Late on the night of March 13-14, 2021 after the leak had been controlled, Kompaniets and a subordinate engineer deliberately dumped the oil contaminated water in the bilges overboard. The discharge into U.S. waters occurred while the ship was at an anchorage near the South West Passage off the Louisiana coast. The ship’s required pollution prevention equipment – an oily-water separator and oil content monitor – were not used, and the discharge was not recorded in the Oil Record Book, a required ship log.
Kompaniets was also charged with obstruction of justice based on various efforts to conceal the illegal discharge. In a joint factual statement filed in Court with his guilty plea, Kompaniets admitted to the following acts of obstruction of justice: (1) making false statements to the Coast Guard that concealed the cause and nature of a hazardous condition, and concealing that the engine room of the vessel had flooded and that oil-contaminated bilge water had been discharged overboard; (2) destroying the computer alarm printouts for the period of the illegal discharge that were sought by the Coast Guard; (3) holding meetings with subordinate crew members and directing them to make false statements to the Coast Guard; (4) making a false Oil Record Book that failed to disclose the illegal discharge; (5) directing subordinate engine room employees to delete all evidence from their cell phones in anticipation of the Coast Guard inspection; and (6) preparing a retaliatory document accusing the whistleblower of poor performance as part of an effort to discredit him.
“The intentional pollution of U.S. waters and the deliberate effort to cover up the crime are extremely serious criminal offenses that will not be tolerated,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Prosecutions such as this one should send a clear message to those that would violate the law and endanger our precious natural resources.”
“The defendant in this case deliberately disregarded procedures designed to protect the environment from contaminants and then attempted to hide his actions,” said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. “Today’s announcement emphasizes that our office along with our federal partners are committed to holding accountable all parties whose criminality jeopardizes our environment and places the public and the ecosystem at risk.”
The criminal prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Senior Litigation Counsel Richard A. Udell of the Environment and Natural Resources Division's Environmental Crimes Section, with assistance provided by District 8 of the U.S. Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Criminal Investigations Division.
The investigation is continuing.
The case was assigned to U.S. District Court Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown. Sentencing has been scheduled for September 1.
Federal Trial Jury Convicts Man for Domestic Violence Against His Intimate Partner Aboard a Cruise ShipRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that GERONIMO FLORES, age 30, from Abilene, Texas, was found guilty today after a three-day jury trial before United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter. He was found guilty of one count of interstate domestic violence assault by strangulation and one count of interstate domestic violence.
On December 17, 2021, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging GERONIMO FLORES with domestic violence by strangulation and suffocation in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 113(a)(8) and 7(8) and interstate domestic violence in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2261(a)(1), 2261(b)(5), and 7(8).
GERONIMO FLORES intentionally assaulted his intimate and dating partner while aboard the Carnival Glory cruise ship on December 2, 2021. The Glory was within the special maritime and territorial jurisdiction of the United States during a voyage that departed from and returned to the Port of New Orleans in the Eastern District of Louisiana. FLORES specifically assaulted the victim by strangulation, as well as striking her in the head with his hand.
For domestic violence by strangulation, GERONIMO FLORES faces a maximum term of ten years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. For domestic violence by striking the victim, he faces a maximum term of five years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Sentencing is set before United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter on August 18. 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Charles D. Strauss and Christopher D. Usher II are in charge of the prosecution.
California Resident Pleads Guilty for His Role in Sim Swap Scam Targeting at Least 40 People, Including New Orleans ResidentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RICHARD YUAN LI, age 21, a resident of Hercules, California, pleaded guilty on May 17, 2022 before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1349 and 1343, for his role in a SIM Swap scam that targeted at least forty people, including a New Orleans-area physician (Victim A).
According to court documents, a SIM Swap scam is a cellular phone account takeover fraud that results in the routing of a victim’s incoming calls and text messages to a different phone. Once a perpetrator is able to swap the SIM card, it is likely he is able to obtain access to a victim’s various personal accounts, including email accounts, bank accounts, and cryptocurrency accounts, as well as any other accounts that use two-factor authentication.
LI participated in a scheme that involved multiple parts. First, in January 2018, they defrauded Apple, Inc. into providing a second Apple iPhone without paying for it by convincing an Apple customer service representative that they had not received an Apple iPhone 8 they ordered (hereinafter “the Apple iPhone 8”). LI took possession of the Apple iPhone 8. LI and his co-conspirators then arranged for victims’ telephone numbers to be swapped to SIM cards contained in cellular phones in their possession, including the Apple iPhone 8. Between July 2018 and December 2018, LI participated in unauthorized SIM Swaps with his co-conspirators that targeted at least forty phone numbers.
Specifically, on November 10, 2018, Victim A’s telephone number was swapped to the Apple iPhone 8, which LI kept in his dorm room at a university in California. The SIM swap caused the transmission of a series of writings, signs, signals, and sounds that traveled in interstate commerce, including between the States of Florida, Louisiana, and California. Thereafter, LI and his co-conspirators gained access to Victim A’s email accounts and cryptocurrency accounts. Thereafter, one or more members of the conspiracy called Victim A and threatened to release contents of his email account unless Victim A paid a 100 Bitcoin ransom. Ultimately, they were able to steal approximately $57,117.50 worth of cryptocurrency before Victim A was able to regain control of his accounts. LI’s participation in a SIM Swap of another individual on December 4, 2018, caused that victim to lose approximately $4,000. In total, between July 19, 2018, and December 6, 2018, LI participated in unauthorized SIM Swaps with his co-conspirators that targeted at least forty victims.
LI faces a maximum term of twenty (20) years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count. He may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victims for their losses. Sentencing before Judge Guidry has been scheduled for August 9, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, the Public Corruption Unit Chief, is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for His Role in a Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 12, 2022, DEMARCO FORD, age 65, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana was sentenced after pleading guilty to a two-count superseding bill of information. In Count 1, FORD was charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine hydrochloride in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B), and 846. In Count 2, FORD was charged with use of communication facilities to further a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
According to court documents, FORD conspired with other members of a drug trafficking organization to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine. Additionally, FORD used a communication facility, the telephone, during the commission of a drug trafficking crime.
For Count 1, FORD received a term of imprisonment of 18 months, a period of supervised release of 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For Count 2, FORD was sentenced to term of imprisonment of 18 months, a period of supervised release of 1 year, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. All terms of imprisonment and supervised release are to run concurrently.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Brittany Reed, André Jones, and Melissa Bücher of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Mexican Man Sentenced to 72 Months for Identity Theft and Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MARTIN CORTEZ-BALDERAS (“CORTEZ”), age 39, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to Identity Theft and Violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.
According to court documents, in November 2020, law enforcement agents received information that CORTEZ may be in the country illegally and using identification information belonging to another person. As agents were preparing to execute a search warrant on November 9, 2020, they observed CORTEZ exit his residence and enter his vehicle. A traffic stop was performed and a search warrant was obtained for the vehicle. This search yielded a Ruger Model P97DC, .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and four rounds of .45 caliber Winchester ammunition. Records also determined that CORTEZ was a convicted felon, prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition. In 2004, CORTEZ was convicted in United States District Court for the Southern District of Texas, of Importing 24.30 Kilograms of Marijuana into the United States.
During a search of his residence, a Louisiana Identification card was found in the name of another person, which CORTEZ represented to be his own. The renewal of the card required CORTEZ to attest via electronic signature that he was in fact the person that he claimed to be by using that person’s name and date of birth. The electronic renewal was transmitted in interstate commerce to the Louisiana Department of Public Safety, and violated Louisiana’s Forgery statute.
U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced CORTEZ to 72 months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $200 special assessment fee. Following the completion of his sentence, CORTEZ will be surrendered to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement for removal proceedings.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Indicted on Federal Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DEVONTE SMITH, age 22, of New Orleans, was charged on May 12, 2022 in an eight-count indictment with numerous federal firearms and drug trafficking violations stemming from a March 30, 2022 shootout, on the corner of Orleans and Rocheblave Streets and the subsequent search of a residence located in the 1800 block of Touro Street. No one was killed or injured in the shootout, but several houses and automobiles were damaged. The indictment charges him as follows:
Count 1: Charge: Possession, brandishing, and discharging of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18 USC § 924(c)(1)(A).
Statutory Sentence: 10 years to life. Any sentence imposed must be served consecutive to any other sentence; a fine of up to $250,000; not more than 5 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
Count 2: Charge: Possession of a machinegun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18 USC § 924(c)(1)(B)(ii).
Statutory Sentence: 30 years up to life. Any sentence imposed must be served consecutive to any other sentence; a fine of up to $250,000; not more than
5 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
Count 3: Charge: Illegal Possession of a machinegun in violation of Title 18 USC § 922(o).
Statutory Sentence: 0-10 years; a fine of up to $250,000; not more than 3 years
supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
Count 4: Charge: Possession of a firearm by a felon in violation of Title 18 USC § 922(g).
Statutory Sentence: 0-10 years; a fine of up to $250,000; not more than 3 years
supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
Count 5: Charge: Conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectible amount of marijuana, cocaine hydrochloride, and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 USC §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D).
Statutory Sentence: cocaine hyddrochloride/fentanyl: 0-20 years; not more than $1,000,000.00 in fines; at least 3 years of supervised release;
Marijuana: 0-5 years; a fine of up to $250,000; at least 2 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
Count 6: Charge: Possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of mixture or substance containing a detectible amount of marijuana, in violation of Title 21 USC §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D).
Statutory Sentence: 0-5 years; a fine of up to $250,000; at least 2 years supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
Count 7: Charge: Maintaining a drug involved premises, in violation of Title 21 USC § 856.
Statutory Sentence: 0-20 years; a fine of up to $500,000; up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
Count 8: Charge: Possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of mixture or substance containing a detectible amount of cocaine hydrochloride and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 USC §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
Statutory Sentence: 0-20 years; a fine of up to $1,000,000; at least 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This matter is being investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (A.T.F.) and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr.