Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Travel for the Purpose of Engaging in Illicit Sexual Conduct with Fifteen-Year-Old MinorRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – GRAHAM LOVELACE, age 33, of Greenville, South Carolina, pleaded guilty as charged today before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to a one-count bill of information charging him with interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court documents, in October 2021, LOVELACE met the minor, a fifteen-year-old who resided in Belle Chasse, Louisiana, on an Xbox game. Throughout 2020 and 2021, LOVELACE and the minor engaged in sexually explicit correspondence, and they made plans to engage in sexual acts in the future, on numerous occasions. During the correspondence, LOVELACE requested and received sexually explicit images and videos of the minor via a video messaging application. In early January 2021, LOVELACE purchased the minor victim a bus ticket to travel from New Orleans to Greenville, South Carolina. However, the minor victim’s mother discovered the correspondence with LOVELACE, informed LOVELACE of the minor victim’s age, and prevented the minor from leaving Louisiana. In fall of 2021, LOVELACE and the minor made plans for LOVELACE to travel to Louisiana to pick up the minor and return to South Carolina together for the purpose of engaging in sex and spending the rest of their lives together. On about October 6, 2021, LOVELACE traveled by automobile from South Carolina to the minor’s Belle Chasse, Louisiana school bus stop. LOVELACE and the minor then travelled to New Orleans, where they stayed in a hotel room together and engaged in sexual intercourse. On about October 7, 2021, LOVELACE and the minor were found by law enforcement, walking hand-in-hand down Bourbon Street in New Orleans.
LOVELACE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than thirty (30) years, followed by a minimum of five (5) years and maximum of a lifetime of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine. LOVELACE will also be required to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee at sentencing. LOVELACE may also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing before Judge Milazzo has been scheduled for Thursday, August 18, 2022.
The case was investigated by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and Melissa Bücher.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – The Honorable Sarah S. Vance sentenced ALONZO SMALL, age 30, of New Orleans, Louisiana, to 49 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court records, SMALL conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin.
United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced SMALL to 49 months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release. SMALL was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
Felon Pleads Guilty for Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that EDWARD BELL, age 26 of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to a one-count superseding bill of information for being a felon in possession of ammunition in violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
According to court documents, BELL was arrested by law enforcement officers after being discovered in a stolen vehicle in Kenner, Louisiana on April 20, 2020. At the time, he had a nine-millimeter semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine tucked in his waistband. The firearm was loaded with Lapua, Barnes, and Hornady ammunition, which is unlawful to possess by a convicted felon. BELL was previously convicted of numerous drug and firearm felonies in Orleans Parish.
BELL faces a maximum term of ten years imprisonment, 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. The Honorable United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance has set sentencing for August 3, 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.
United States Attorney Evans praised the work of the Kenner Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles D. Strauss.
Chalmette Man Sentenced for Role in Airline Baggage ScamRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DONMONICK MARTIN, age 30, of Chalmette, Louisiana, was sentenced on May 11, 2022 for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
According to court documents, MARTIN conspired to defraud commercial airlines through the submission of false claims for reimbursement for lost baggage. In January 2021, MARTIN’s co-conspirator Pernell Jones, Jr. (“JONES”) took a flight to New Orleans under a fictitious identity. Shortly thereafter, MARTIN went into Louis Armstrong International Airport, assumed the same fictitious identity, and falsely told American Airlines that his bag had been lost on the flight. According to MARTIN’s plea documents, on four occasions, MARTIN agreed to accept fraudulent baggage reimbursement funds from airlines on JONES’ behalf to help JONES evade detection. In November 2021, JONES pled guilty to 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. JONES is set to be sentenced on May 19, 2022.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced MARTIN to three years of probation with two months of home detention. MARTIN was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $13,466.89. Judge Milazzo also imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
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.
U.S. Attorney Evans Recognizes Police Week at District Commemorative EventsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS— In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Duane A. Evans will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state and local law enforcement. This year, National Police Week is observed Wednesday, May 11 through Tuesday, May 17, 2022.
“This week, we gather to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who sacrificed their lives in service to our country,” said Attorney General Garland. “We remember the courage with which they worked and lived. And we recommit ourselves to the mission to which they dedicated their lives. On behalf of a grateful Justice Department and a grateful nation, I extend my sincerest thanks and gratitude to the entire law enforcement community.”
U.S. Attorney Evans said, “Every year during Police Week, our nation celebrates the selfless contributions from our brave men and women in law enforcement from around the country, and especially in the Eastern District of Louisiana, by recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe. We owe it to these officers and their families to never forget that sacrifice and we want them and their families to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation. Our brave men and women in law enforcement, on the federal, state, and local levels, made the selfless choice to protect and serve with full knowledge that they could one day find themselves in harm’s way while doing their jobs. This week we should all take some time to reflect and honor the fallen and also those in law enforcement who continue to dutifully serve the public.”
To commemorate Police Week, U.S. Attorney Evans participated in the FBI New Orleans Field Office Fallen Officers Recognition Ceremony and in the upcoming days U.S. Attorney Evans will address attendees at the St. Tammany Parish Law Enforcement Memorial Service.
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Based on data submitted to and analyzed by the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund (NLEOMF), 472 law enforcement officers died nationwide in the line of duty in 2021. Of that number, 319 succumbed to COVID-19. According to Officers Down Memorial Page, 4 officers have died in the line of duty in the Eastern District of Louisiana in 2021.
Additionally, according to 2021 statistics reported by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program, 73 law enforcement officers who died in the line of duty in 2021 were killed as a result of felonious acts, whereas 56 died in accidents. Deaths resulting from felonious acts increased in 2021, rising more than 58 percent from the previous year. In 2021, unprovoked attackswere the cause of 24 deaths significantly outpacing all other line of duty deaths resulting from felony acts and reaching the highest annual total in over 30 years of reporting. Additional LEOKA statistics can be found on FBI’s Crime Data Explorer website for the LEOKA program.
The names of the 619 fallen officers added this year to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial will be read on Friday, May 13, 2022, during a Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C., starting at 8:00 PM EDT. Those who wish to view the vigil live online, can watch on the NLEOMF YouTube channel found at https://www.youtube.com/TheNLEOMF. The schedule of National Police Week events is available on NLEOMF’s website.
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Reference to any specific organization or service(s) offered by an organization is for the information and convenience of the public, and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the United States Department of Justice.
An unprovoked attack is defined as an attack on an officer not prompted by official contact at the time of the incident between the officer and the offender. Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) through the Law Enforcement Officer Killed and Assaulted (LEOKA) Program.
Slidell Resident Sentenced to 78 Months for Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and Crack and for Providing an Ak-47 to a Co-Defendant that was Used to Facilitate Crack SalesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that U.S. District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter sentenced LIONEL COOLEY, age 45, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, on May, 10, 2022, to 78 months of imprisonment , four years of supervised release and a mandatory $200 special assessment fee for conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of crack, and for providing an AK-47 firearm to codefendant Blake Monroe that was used to facilitate Monroe’s crack sales, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846, and Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o). COOLEY plead guilty on October 27, 2021.
According to court documents, the United States forfeited approximately $18,978.00, assorted jewelry, and a Smith & Wesson revolver that were seized in connection with the investigation. COOLEY and four others, Joseph Brown, Kendrick Demourelle, Kevin Gray, and Blake Monroe, conspired to sell illegal narcotics in Orleans Parish including using a broken-down yellow school bus as a stash house. A seized GMC Sierra pickup truck used by a member of this drug conspiracy contained nearly two kilograms of cocaine and 430 grams of crack. All five defendants were indicted in February 2020.
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 Attorneys David Howard Sinkman and Alexandra Giavotella, Asset Forfeiture, are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to 57 Months for Firearm ViolationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that, CHRISTOPHER ARANA, age 29, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced in the United States District Court in connection with his plea of guilty to a one-count indictment charging 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).
United States District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo imposed a sentence of 57 months in the Bureau of Prisons. Following his term of imprisonment, ARANA will be placed on supervised release for 3 years. The court did not impose a fine but imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
On August 20, 2020, New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) officers responded to an aggravated battery by shooting in the 1700 block of Eagle Street, New Orleans, Louisiana. The NOPD officer on the scene was informed that ARANA sustained a gunshot wound to his abdominal area and was transported to a nearby hospital for medical treatment.
The officer then requested that Real Time Crime Cameras located in the immediate vicinity of the corner store be reviewed to learn what happened during the shooting. While reviewing the camera footage, the officer observed ARANA arrive at the intersection of Eagle Street and Hickory Street on a bike and stand near the entrance of the store. While standing near the door, ARANA was utilizing his cellular telephone. ARANA observed a vehicle approaching him. The occupants of the vehicle, armed with firearms, began to discharge their firearms at ARANA. ARANA retrieved a fully concealed black semiautomatic handgun from his waistband area during the shooting but did not discharge his firearm. After the shooting, ARANA relocated inside the corner store and discarded the firearm to hide it from law enforcement.
After the shooting, a store employee recovered the firearm possessed by ARANA, a black Smith and Wesson Model SD40 VE, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol. The firearm contained ten live rounds, one in the chamber, and nine in the magazine.
ARANA is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.
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 case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty for Role in Nationwide Prostitution Enterprise That Involved Incapacitating and Stealing from VictimsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RANDY JONAL SCHENCK (a/k/a RuRu, a/k/a “Shaq”), age 41, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana and Downey, California, pleaded guilty on May10, 2022 before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to Counts 1 and 7 of a pending indictment, charging him with interstate transportation and use of an interstate facility with intent to carry on unlawful activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1952(a)(3) (Count 1), and wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 2 (Count 7).
According to court documents, SCHENCK met Dominique Berry in New Orleans in about early 2013 and soon developed a romantic relationship. Shortly thereafter, SCHENCK encouraged Berry to engage in commercial sex activities (i.e., prostitution) with individuals in the New Orleans, Louisiana area and became involved in the scheduling, coordination, and facilitation of Berry’s commercial sex acts. SCHENCK typically kept all, or most, of the proceeds of the commercial sex acts.
Beginning in about March 2014, and continuing through September 2017, SCHENCK and Berry travelled nationally engaging in their prostitution enterprise, including through California, Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, Tennessee, and Georgia. In furtherance of the enterprise, Berry regularly engaged in commercial sex acts on multiple days of nearly every week between about March 2014 and September 2017. SCHENCK and Berry posted numerous advertisements containing photographs of Berry on multiple location-specific online classified ad service websites and social media applications in that invited interested individuals to contact Berry to schedule sexual interactions, many of which were explicitly commercial.
Beginning in about 2015, the prostitution enterprise evolved to include a scheme to defraud, whereby SCHENCK caused Berry to arrange “out call” interactions at the residences of men who met her through online postings. While at the residences, Berry placed substances in the beverages of the men for the purpose of “spiking” their drinks and rendering them unconscious. Berry then took items of value from the incapacitated men, including jewelry, firearms, electronics, cash, and debit and credit cards. SCHENCK and Berry used the items, without the knowledge or authorization of the people to whom the items belonged, for their benefit and the benefit of individuals associated with them. SCHENCK and Berry implemented the scheme numerous times throughout the United States.
In furtherance of the scheme, on or about February 24, 2017, Berry met the victim, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, through a social media application. After exchanging text messages and phone calls, Berry and the victim agreed to meet at the victim’s apartment. SCHENCK dropped Berry off at the victim’s apartment. Acting at SCHENCK’s direction, while at the victim’s apartment, Berry provided the victim with various substances, including alcohol, to loosen the victim’s inhibitions and to render them more susceptible to theft. After the victim became incapacitated, Berry stole the victim’s personal property, including a debit card. SCHENCK picked Berry up at approximately 1:00 am and then used the victim’s debit card, without the victim’s authorization, to make a purchase at a Walmart Supercenter in New Orleans later that day.
SCHENCK faces up to five years in prison as to Count 1 and up to twenty years in prison as to Count 7, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment per count. SCHENCK may also be ordered to pay restitution to his victims. Sentencing before Judge Ashe has been scheduled for August 18, 2021, at 1:30 p.m.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter and expressed appreciation for the support provided by numerous law enforcement agencies and private entities involved in the investigation, including the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Tucson (Arizona) Police Department, the Salt River (Arizona) Police Department, the Cobb County (Georgia) Police Department, the Sandy Springs (Georgia) Police Department, the Sacramento (California) Police Department, and Talking Stick Casino (Arizona). Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Unit Chief of the Public Corruption Unit, and Melissa Bücher are in charge of the prosecution.
Former Bank Teller Pleads Guilty to Federal Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that KAREN FARRELL TIGLER, age 35, of Harvey, Louisiana, pled guilty today to Bank Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344, and Making and Subscribing False Tax Returns in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(1).
According to documents filed in federal court, from January 1, 2013, to November 14, 2016, TIGLER was employed as a multi-service banker with the Hancock Whitney Bank. TIGLER worked at a Whitney branch in New Orleans, LA. Client A was in her mid-80s in 2015 and 2016 and was a banking customer of Whitney.
From February 9, 2015, to October 28, 2016, TIGLER used her position with the bank to embezzle approximately $349,556 from Client A’s account by using 100 counter checks to debit funds from Client A’s account. TIGLER used her position with the bank to access personal information from other legitimate banking transactions to create the fraudulent counter checks. TIGLER forged the signatures of Client A and various others on the counter checks to conceal her embezzlement scheme. TIGLER accessed or utilized legitimate checks drawn on Client A’s account to prepare fraudulent counter checks. TIGLER cashed 21 counter checks totaling $73,924 that were supposedly for “roofing,” “market/garden work,” “light fixtures/cleaning,” “extras plumbing,” “misc. work,” “renovations,” and “maintenance.” TIGLER cashed the other 79 counter checks totaling approximately $275,632 payable to another individual that were supposedly for “house,” “maintenance,” and for “happy birthday.”
In addition, TIGLER failed to report $134,429 on her 2015 tax return and $215,127 on her 2016 return. TIGLER reported W-2 income from the bank of $21,290 for the tax year 2015 and $19,256 for 2016. TIGLER spread the deposits of cash of embezzled funds into her various accounts. TIGLER also failed to report gambling winnings of $32,180 on her 2015 tax return. When confronted by a relative of Client A, TIGLER falsely implicated another individual in an effort to conceal her embezzlement of funds from Client A’s account.
For her plea of guilty to Bank Fraud, TIGLER faces a maximum penalty of thirty (30) years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $1,000,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571. She also faces up to _ years of supervised release. As to her plea of guilty to Making and Subscribing False Tax Returns, TIGLER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of three (3) years and/or a fine of $100,000.00 plus cost of prosecution as well as up to _years of supervised release. For each charge to which she has pled guilty, she must also pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee
Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the Federal Trade Commission at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or at 1-877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office of Victims of Crime at www.ovc.gov. Additional elder justice resources, training, and outreach materials can be found at the Elder Justice Website at www.elderjustice.gov.
Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for August 3, 2022, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Hancock Whitney Bank 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, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni.
California Man Sentenced to over 17 Years for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ALLEN EDGERSON, age 44, of Moreno Valley, California, was sentenced to over 17 years today for methamphetamine trafficking.
EDGERSON pled guilty on July 7, 2021, to conspiring to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. According to court documents, EDGERSON sold methamphetamine in large quantities, quoting customers prices for up to 20 pounds of methamphetamine at a time. Law enforcement agents caught EDGERSON and his codefendant, Rachel Cesario, sending packages with multiple pounds of methamphetamine at a time to codefendant Sheon Copprue in New Orleans.
The Honorable Sarah S. Vance sentenced EDGERSON to a term of imprisonment of 210 months, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment of $100. EDGERSON’s codefendants, Sheon Copprue, Rachel Cesario, and Tonya Calvin, have already pled guilty in this case and are awaiting sentencing.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.
Two Charged with Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that GREGORY JOHNSON, JR., age 43, of Baton Rouge, and KEITH BOURGEOIS, age 51, of New Orleans, were indicted on May 5, 2022 by a federal grand jury for violations of the Controlled Substances Act and the Gun Control Act. JOHNSON and BOURGEOIS were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), 841(b)(1)(C), 846. JOHNSON and BOURGEOIS were also charged with possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), and being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
According to the indictment, JOHNSON and BOURGEOIS conspired with each other and others to distribute cocaine hydrochloride in the Eastern District of Louisiana and elsewhere. On or about April 19, 2022, JOHNSON and BOURGEOIS possessed a Smith and Wesson Model SD .40 caliber pistol, a Taurus PT 24/7 .40 caliber pistol, a Heritage Rough Rider .45 LC caliber revolver, and a Thompson Center Arms Super 14 .35 Rem caliber pistol. JOHNSON also possessed a Springfield XD-S Mod.2 .45 caliber pistol.
If convicted of the drug offense, JOHNSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $8,000,000, and at least 8 years of supervised release; BOURGEOIS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least 4 years of supervised release. For possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, JOHNSON and BOURGEOIS face a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release. For being felons in possession of a firearm, JOHNSON and BOURGEOIS face a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. For each charge that JOHNSON and BOURGEOIS face, they must also pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.
Slidell Woman Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LINDA REED HILL (“HILL”), age 75, of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged on May 6, 2022 by a bill of information today with Theft of Government Funds in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
According to the bill of information, beginning in or about May 1, 2004, and continuing until in or about February 28, 2021, the HILL did knowingly embezzle, steal, purloin, and convert to her use, money belonging to the United States and a department and agency thereof, namely the Social Security Administration, to which she knew she was not entitled, when she withdrew funds from a joint JP Morgan Chase account under her own name and Individual “A’s” name.
Prior to April 28, 2004, Individual “A” received SSA Retirement Survivor Insurance (“RSI”). After Individual “A’s” death, from approximately May 2004 to February 2021, Individual “A” continued to receive monthly SSA disability benefits in an amount ranging from $1,310.00 - $1,518.00 per month, totaling $319,696.00, which was deposited by SSA into a joint JP Morgan Chase Savings account, shared by HILL and Individual “A.” The monthly SSA funds were then taken from the joint account, transferred to two different accounts listed under HILL’s name, and withdrawn by HILL.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, HILL faces a possible maximum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JACOB WIEBELT (“WIEBELT”), age 39, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, pled guilty today to a one-count bill of information for Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Children, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (B)(2).
According to documents filed in federal court, the case against WIEBELT developed as a result of a lead to the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (“LBI”) that a user uploaded child sexual abuse material (“CSAM”) to the “Discord” messenger service. Specifically, the lead reflected that the user uploaded sexually explicit videos of prepubescent children . On November 1, 2021, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) special agents along with the LBI executed a federal search warrant at WIEBELT’s home in Ponchatoula during which time WIEBELT confessed to possessing, sharing, and uploading CSAM. WIEBELT further admitted he created a Discord account and stated that other Discord users would share CSAM on the website and that he would save the CSAM to his cellular telephone. WIEBELT would then upload the saved CSAM from his phone to other Discord users.
WIEBELT faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person of the offense under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571. In addition, WIEBELT faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life after his release from prison and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. WIEBELT was previously convicted in 2011 for Receipt of Child Pornography and sentenced to five (5) years in federal prison. WIEBELT was on supervised release when he committed this new offense.
Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for August 9, 2022 before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations 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.
Eight Defendants Indicted for Human Smuggling and Drug Conspiracy OffensesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Eight individuals were charged in an indictment, unsealed today in the Eastern District of Louisiana, for their involvement in an international scheme to smuggle 24 undocumented individuals from Honduras into Louisiana aboard the Motor Vessel (M/V) “Pop,” which is owned by one of the defendants. One of the defendants was also arrested for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 24 kilograms of cocaine seized on this boat which the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted off the coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana, in February 2022.
Carl Allison, aka Car, 46, of Irwin, Pennsylvania, and Lindomar De La Rosa, aka Omar, aka Dr. Diablo, 37, of Atlanta, were arrested earlier today. Co-defendants Josue Alexander Flores-Villeda, 35, Darrel Martinez, 40, and Lenard Cooper, 39, are in custody on separate warrants. Co-defendants Rudy Jackson Hernandez, 35, and Hennessey Devon Cooper, 26, remain on bond. The final defendant, Lance Vroon, 39, remains at large. The eight individuals were charged with conspiring to bring aliens to the United States and to encourage and induce aliens to come to, enter, and reside in the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain; and attempting to bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain. Josue Alexander Flores-Villeda, aka Alex, 35, of Honduras, is additionally charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride.
According to the indictment, from on or about December 2021 until on or about Feb. 14, 2022, Allison, De La Rosa, and the other defendants attempted to bring 24 undocumented persons from Honduras to the United States aboard the M/V “Pop,” owned by Allison. The Coast Guard interdicted the M/V Pop off the coast of Grand Isle on Feb. 15. Twenty-four kilograms of cocaine were seized from the captain’s cabin aboard the ship.
If convicted of the human smuggling offenses, each defendant faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison. If convicted of the drug conspiracy offense, Villeda faces between 10 years and life in prison.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.
This case is being investigated by HSI Houma, with assistance from HSI Pittsburgh, HSI Atlanta, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Officers, Louisiana State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, the North Huntingdon Township Police and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance in the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Howard Sinkman and Carter Guice for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and Trial Attorney Rami S. Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section are prosecuting the case.
Coordination and support for the investigation is being provided by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), which was established by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Department of Justice, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to enhance U.S. enforcement efforts against the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. JTFA consists of federal prosecutors from border U.S. Attorney’s Offices, from the Criminal Division and the Civil Rights Division, along with law enforcement agents and analysts from HSI and CBP. The FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration are also part of the task force, along with other interagency partners.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Eight Defendants Indicted for Human Smuggling and Drug Conspiracy OffensesRead the Press Release
Eight individuals were charged in an indictment, unsealed today in the Eastern District of Louisiana, for their involvement in an international scheme to smuggle 24 undocumented individuals from Honduras into Louisiana aboard the Motor Vessel (M/V) “Pop,” which is owned by one of the defendants. One of the defendants was also arrested for conspiring to possess with intent to distribute 24 kilograms of cocaine seized on this boat which the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted off the coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana, in February 2022.
Carl Allison, aka Car, 46, of Irwin, Pennsylvania, and Lindomar De La Rosa, aka Omar, aka Dr. Diablo, 37, of Atlanta, were arrested earlier today. Co-defendants Josue Alexander Flores-Villeda, 35, Darrel Martinez, 40, and Lenard Cooper, 39, are in custody on separate warrants. Co-defendants Rudy Jackson Hernandez, 35, and Hennessey Devon Cooper, 26, remain on bond. The final defendant, Lance Vroon, 39, remains at large. The eight individuals were charged with conspiring to bring aliens to the United States and to encourage and induce aliens to come to, enter, and reside in the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain; and attempting to bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain. Josue Alexander Flores-Villeda, aka Alex, 35, of Honduras, is additionally charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride.
According to the indictment, from on or about December 2021 until on or about Feb. 14, 2022, Allison, De La Rosa, and the other defendants attempted to bring 24 undocumented persons from Honduras to the United States aboard the M/V “Pop,” owned by Allison. The Coast Guard interdicted the M/V Pop off the coast of Grand Isle on Feb. 15. Twenty-four kilograms of cocaine were seized from the captain’s cabin aboard the ship.
If convicted of the human smuggling offenses, each defendant faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison. If convicted of the drug conspiracy offense, Villeda faces between 10 years and life in prison.
Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.
This case is being investigated by HSI Houma, with assistance from HSI Pittsburgh, HSI Atlanta, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Officers, Louisiana State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, the North Huntingdon Township Police and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office provided valuable assistance in the investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Howard Sinkman and Carter Guice for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and Trial Attorney Rami S. Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section are prosecuting the case.
Coordination and support for the investigation is being provided by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), which was established by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Department of Justice, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to enhance U.S. enforcement efforts against the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras. JTFA consists of federal prosecutors from border U.S. Attorney’s Offices, from the Criminal Division and the Civil Rights Division, along with law enforcement agents and analysts from HSI and CBP. The FBI and the Drug Enforcement Administration are also part of the task force, along with other interagency partners.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Salvadoran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ALONSO BONILLA, age 45, a citizen of El Salvador, pleaded guilty on May 3, 2022 to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
BONILLA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and Spiro Latsis are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Violation of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JARON MCCREE, age 27, a resident of Orleans Parish, was charged on April 29, 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.
If convicted, MCCREE 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 $100 mandatory special assessment fee
U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Mike Trummel.
Terrebonne Man Indicted for Trafficking Fentanyl and Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOSHUA PICOU, age 30, of Houma, Louisiana, was charged on April 28, 2022 in a seven-count indictment by a federal grand jury for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and Federal Controlled Substances Act. Specifically, he is charged with distributing a substance containing fentanyl and cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). He is further charged with possessing fentanyl, cocaine base (“crack”), and cocaine with the intent to distribute in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C). Additionally, he is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 922(g)(9), and 924(c)(1)(A)(i), respectively.
According to court documents, PICOU distributed a substance containing fentanyl and cocaine on May 27, June 2, and June 22, 2021. Later, on June 24, 2021, he is alleged to have been in possession of forty (40) grams or more of fentanyl, twenty-eight (28) grams or more of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine, with the intent to distribute the substances. On that same date, he is accused of being in possession of two firearms, a Glock Model 17 handgun and a Springfield Armory XDM-9. The indictment charges PICOU with possessing those firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking activity and while prohibited due to his prior criminal convictions.
If convicted of distribution of fentanyl and cocaine as charged in Counts 1 – 3 or possession with intent to distribute cocaine as charged in Count 4, PICOU faces up to a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee, as to each count. If convicted of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl or cocaine base, he faces a minimum of five (5) years and a maximum of forty (40) years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000.00 fine, at least four (4) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. If convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, he faces a consecutive minimum of five (5) years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to five (5) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. If convicted of possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a felony offense or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, he faces up to a maximum of ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee, as to each count.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is 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 Homeland Securities Investigations and the Terrebonne Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles D. Strauss.
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Slidell Resident Sentenced to 120 Months for Conspiring to Distribute Five Kilograms or More of Cocaine, 280 Grams or More of Crack, and 1.5 Kilograms or More of HeroinRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on April 28, 2022 U.S. District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter sentenced KENDRICK DEMOURELLE, age 40, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, to 120 months of imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and $300 in mandatory special assessment fees for conspiring to distribute cocaine, crack, and heroin, and for the illegal use of phones in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B), 843(b), and 846. DEMOURELLE plead guilty on November 2, 2021.
According to court records, the United States is seeking to forfeit approximately $120,308.00, two vehicles, and two properties acquired by DEMOURELLE with suspected drug proceeds which have been seized in connection with the investigation. DEMOURELLE and four others, Joseph Brown, Lionel Cooley, Kevin Gray, and Blake Monroe, conspired to sell illegal narcotics in New Orleans, including using a broken-down yellow school bus in the ‘Goose’ neighborhood in New Orleans East as a stash house. All five were indicted in February 2020. A seized GMC Sierra pickup truck used by Lionel Cooley contained nearly two kilograms of cocaine and 430 grams of crack.
As part of his guilty plea, DEMOURELLE agreed that he was responsible for at least 5 kilograms of cocaine, at least 280 grams of crack, and at least 1.5 kilograms of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, through his own conduct and the reasonably foreseeable conduct of his co-conspirators.
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.
Mexican 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 JOSE GARCIA-NUNEZ, age 33, a citizen of Mexico, 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).
JOSE GARCIA-NUNEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
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.
Mexican Man Charged with Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MARIO MATEO TOMAS JOSE, a native of Mexico, was charged today in a one-count bill of information with illegally using a social security number to qualify for employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
MARIO MATEO TOMAS JOSE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Man Charged with Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LIMBER VAZQUEZ-NUNEZ, a native of Mexico, was charged on April 28, 2022 in a one-count bill of information with illegally using a social security number to qualify for employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
LIMBER VAZQUEZ-NUNEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Guatemalan Man Charged with Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on April 28, 2022 VICTORIANO CAMEY-ESPANA, age 38, a native of Guatemala, was charged today in a one-count bill of information with illegally using a social security number to qualify for employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
VICTORIANO CAMEY-ESPANA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney M. Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
Grand Isle Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – FLOYD ROBERTSON, age 26, of Grand Isle, Louisiana, was charged April 29, 2022, in a 4-count indictment by a federal grand jury with distribution of fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine and distribution of heroin and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
If convicted on the methamphetamine charges, ROBERTSON faces a mandatory minimum term of ten (10) years imprisonment and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.
If convicted on the heroin and fentanyl charges, ROBERTSON faces up to a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the defendant’s guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Bücher.
Former Amtrak Employee Pleads Guilty to Cares Act Fraud and TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that STACEY V. SANTEMORE, SR., age 46, formerly of New Orleans but now a resident of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty on April 27, 2022 before U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey to a two-count bill of information charging him with making false statements and theft of government funds related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, to provide emergency financial assistance in connection with economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP. The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of 1%. PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding.
In addition, the CARES Act created a temporary federal unemployment insurance program called Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) after a major disaster declaration for this funding. PUA, administered by the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC), provided unemployment insurance benefits for individuals who are not eligible for other types of unemployment benefits (e.g., the self-employed, independent contractors, or gig economy workers).
According to the charging documents, SANTEMORE, in July 2020, made false statements to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining pandemic-related relief loans funded by the federal government, including PPP funds, which he received in the amount of approximately $89,000 on July 14, 2020.
SANTEMORE also applied for Louisiana unemployment benefits through the LWC with PUA funding despite at all times being fully employed by Amtrak, the national passenger railcar company. Through this theft of government funds, he obtained approximately $22,000 from April 2020 through March 2021.
SANTEMORE faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for the false statements count. He faces up to ten years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for the theft count. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count. Sentencing before U.S. District Court Judge Zainey will be on July 26, 2022.
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.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Amtrak Office of Inspector General – Criminal Investigations and the Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
Morgan City Man Pleads Guilty in Staged Automobile Collision SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that DAVID BROWN (“BROWN”), age 50, of Morgan City, pled guilty on April 27, 2022 to Count One (1) of his indictment, charging him with Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. By pleading guilty to Count 1, the defendant faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years’ imprisonment; a term of supervised release of up to three (3) years; and a fine of up to $250,000.00, as well as a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. Today’s guilty plea brings the total number of defendants convicted in Operation Sideswipe to 37.
According to court documents, BROWN falsely claimed that he was a passenger in a car that was struck by a tractor-trailer on May 11, 2017. In fact, the defendant conspired with Damian Labeaud (“Labeaud”), Mario Solomon (“Solomon”), and others to intentionally collide with a tractor-trailer in the area of Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road in New Orleans. After the intentional collision, BROWN falsely informed NOPD officers at the scene that he had been driving the vehicle and that the tractor-trailer was at fault. BROWN also filed a fraudulent lawsuit and lied in a deposition. This scheme caused the insurance company for the tractor-trailer to pay over $140,000.00 in settlement funds for the May 11, 2017 collision. The Honorable Jane Triche Milazzo set sentencing in this matter for July 27, 2022.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria M. Carboni; Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Rivera; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Long.
Four Men Convicted in New Orleans Murder for HireRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LOUIS AGE JR., age 73, and LOUIS’ son, LOUIS AGE III, a/k/a “Big Lou”, age 51, RONALD WILSON a/k/a “Tank”, age 47, and STANTON GUILLORY a/k/a “Nan-Nan”, age 27, all from New Orleans, were found guilty yesterday after a three-week jury trial before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe. They were found guilty of various violations, including conspiracy to commit murder for hire, murder for hire, and other related offenses along with lying to a federal agent.
Milton Womack was shot and killed on July 27, 2012. On August 17, 2017, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging LOUIS AGE JR., LOUIS AGE III, a/k/a “Big Lou”, RONALD WILSON a/k/a “Tank”, and STANTON GUILLORY a/k/a “Nan-Nan” with a variety of crimes related to an alleged plot to murder Milton Womack. These crimes were committed both to retaliate against and prevent Mr. Womack from testifying in a federal health care fraud trial and from cooperating with law enforcement about the health care fraud as well as other crimes, including the use of fire to commit mail fraud.
AGE JR. was also charged and convicted of crimes related to an alleged plot against another witness. Additionally, AGE JR. was charged and convicted of making false statements to federal agents. AGE III was also charged and convicted of making false statements to federal agents.
LOUIS AGE JR., LOUIS AGE III, a/k/a “Big Lou”, RONALD WILSON a/k/a “Tank”, and STANTON GUILLORY a/k/a “Nan-Nan” all face a mandatory life sentence. Sentencing will be held before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe on August 4. 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera, David Haller, Brandon Long and Ted Carter are in charge of the prosecution.
Hollygrove Man Sentenced for Drug, Carjacking, and Firearm ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRIAN JONES (JONES), a/k/a “Turk,” age 26, was sentenced in federal court today to 30 years imprisonment for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act ,Title 21 United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, carjacking, Title 21 United States Code, Section 2119, and use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, Title 21 United States Code Section 924(c)(1)(A)(iii)JONES previously pled guilty to a three count second superseding indictment. on October 19, 2021
According to court documents, in 2017 and 2018, JONES and his co-conspirators sold drugs in the Hollygrove area of New Orleans in and around a neighborhood corner-store.
In October 2017, JONES pistol-whipped and shot a victim multiple times from point blank range, and then ran the victim over with a car. The victim survived.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which 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 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 Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Orleans Gang Task Force. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Kathryn McHugh and Myles Ranier.
Harvey Woman Sentenced for Conspiring to Stage Automobile Collision to Defraud Insurance and Trucking CompaniesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that DONISESHA LEE, a/k/a DONISHA LEE (“DONISHA LEE”), age 32, of Harvey, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, by United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance, arising out of a staged automobile collision with a tractor-trailer occurring in New Orleans.
According to documents filed in federal court, DONISHA LEE, along with her co-defendants, Dewayne Coleman (“Coleman”), Erica Lee Thompson (“Erica Lee”), Aisha Thompson (“Thompson”), Passenger A, and another individual, conspired to commit mail fraud in connection with a staged collision with their former co-defendant, occurring on September 6, 2017. Thus far, the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” is thirty-seven (37).
DONISHA LEE admitted that on September 6, 2017, on the I-10 near the Almonaster exit, she was a passenger in Erica Lee’s 2015 RAV4 being driven by their former co-defendant, when he intentionally crashed into a tractor-trailer owned by Averitt Express. After the staged accident, the driver exited the RAV4 and told Erica Lee to get behind the wheel of the RAV4 to make it appear that Erica Lee was driving the vehicle at the time of the staged accident. The defendants contacted the NOPD and falsely claimed that Erica Lee was the driver at the time of the collision. Passenger A falsely claimed to the NOPD that she was Thompson.
Approximately one or two days after the staged accident, Coleman, DONISHA LEE, Erica Lee, Thompson, and another individual went to an attorney’s office for the purpose of collecting money from the insurance and trucking company. Coleman, DONISHA LEE, Erica Lee, Thompson, and another individual sought medical treatment from doctors and healthcare providers. Thompson was treated despite not being in the RAV4 at the time of the staged accident. DONISHA LEE retained counsel and made a claim for damages. The total settlement for the Averitt accident was $30,000.
On March 26, 2019, DONISHA LEE, and two of her co-defendants, provided false testimony in depositions taken in conjunction with the Thompson Lawsuit. On April 9, 2019, Thompson provided false testimony in a deposition taken in conjunction with the Thompson Lawsuit. In these depositions, DONISHA LEE, and her co-defendants, lied about the September 6, 2017 accident including, but not limited to, who was driving the RAV4 and the extent of their injuries.
United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced DONISHA LEE to 10 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, 100 hours community service, restitution in the amount of $121,076.75, and a $100.00 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.
Saint Charles Parish Men Sentenced on Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that, on April 19, 2022, DUVELL LONDON, JR., 41, of St. Rose, La., and JEREMY LEVANDA, age 40, of Destrehan, La., were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Wendy Vitter on drug trafficking charges. LONDON previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, powder cocaine, and crack cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. LONDON further pled guilty to 4 counts of distribution of controlled substances, 3 counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and 4 counts of use of a telephone in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. LEVANDA previously pled guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and one count of use of a telephone in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, LONDON, LEVANDA, and others, distributed significant quantities of fentanyl, powder cocaine, and crack cocaine in St Charles Parish and surrounding areas during the summer of 2020.
LONDON was sentenced to 188 months’ imprisonment, 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment, and $1,200 in mandatory special assessment fees. LEVANDA was sentenced to 54 months’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment, and $300 in mandatory special assessment fees.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John the Baptist Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Nolan Paige and Paige O’Hale.
Thibodaux Meth Dealer Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DONTRELL MATHEWS, age 42, a resident of Thibodaux, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 120 months’ imprisonment, three (3) of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after pleading guilty to a one-count superseding bill of information charging him with distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on July 31, 2018, Special Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration used a confidential source to make a controlled purchase of approximately 27 grams of methamphetamine from MATHEWS.
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, Office of Homeland Security Investigations, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Man for Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – A federal grand jury in New Orleans, Louisiana returned a three-count indictment charging a New Orleans man for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act.
According to court documents, NICHOLAS WEBER, age 29, is charged in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B). In Count 2, WEBER is charged with possessing firearms in the furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A). In Count 3, WEBER is charged with possession of a firearms by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
If convicted of Count 1, WEBER faces a minimum sentence of 5 years and up to a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 2, WEBER faces a mandatory consecutive 5 years imprisonment, up to life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, WEBER faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release. WEBER faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee for each count.
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 New Orleans Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Louisiana State Police as part of NOPD’s Violent Crime Abatement Investigation Team (“VCAIT”). The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Usher.
Three Sentenced in Connection with the 2013 Murder of Loomis Armored Guard Hector TrochezRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that yesterday JEREMY ESTEVES, age 35, ROBERT BRUMFIELD, III, age 28, and JASMINE THEOPHILE, age 29, all of New Orleans, were sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Lance Africk for their roles in the December 2013 armed robbery of a Loomis Armored vehicle at Chase Bank, 2331 S. Carrollton, Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana, which resulted in the death of Loomis guard Hector Trochez.
ESTEVES, who was found guilty by a jury at trial in November 2019 of conspiracy to obstruct and obstruction of commerce by robbery, murder, and violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, was sentenced to 600 months imprisonment, a five-year term of supervised release following imprisonment, a $300 mandatory special assessment fee, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $277,000.00.
BRUMFIELD, who was also convicted at trial in November 2019 of conspiracy to obstruct commerce by robbery, was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment, a three year term of supervised release following imprisonment, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $277,000.00.
THEOPHILE, the former girlfriend of co-defendant Lilbear George, previously pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice and was sentenced to a five year term of probation, which includes six months in the custody of a halfway house. She was further ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, on December 18, 2013, ESTEVES along with co-defendants, Lilbear George, Chukwudi Ofomata, and Curtis Johnson, Jr., robbed a Loomis armored vehicle as it was making a delivery of approximately $265,000 to the Chase Bank at the intersection of S. Carrollton and S. Claiborne Avenues. As Trochez prepared to make the delivery, George and Ofomata, both armed, exited a Chevy Tahoe driven by ESTEVES and ordered Trochez to give up the money. Trochez pulled his weapon and fired at the robbers. Ofomata and George returned fired in Trochez’s direction. Johnson fired at the Loomis truck to keep the driver inside. Trochez was fatally struck on the left side of his forehead and suffered a graze wound to his elbow. One of the robbers ran towards the rear of the Loomis truck and took possession of the money bag before re-entering the Tahoe. The robbers fled the Chase Bank parking lot.
A witness seated in a vehicle at the corner of S. Claiborne and S. Carrollton Avenues observed the shooting and provided a description of the shooters and the vehicle they occupied. That witness followed the Chevy Tahoe as it fled the location of the shooting/robbery. During the vehicle’s flight, one of the shooters fired at the witness’s vehicle in an attempt to deter the witness from following. The witness observed the Chevy Tahoe arrive in the 1700 block of Adams Street and saw the four robbers exit the Chevy Tahoe and enter the awaiting Honda Accord driven by BRUMFIELD. The Honda Accord fled the Adams Street location, leaving the Chevy Tahoe behind.
The Tahoe was recovered by the New Orleans Police Department and searched pursuant to a federal search warrant. During the search, FBI agents observed that the steering wheel column of the vehicle had been breached. Agents located two screwdrivers on the floorboard and a bandana on the console. The items were collected and submitted for DNA testing at the Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory. An unknown DNA profile, later confirmed to be that of George, was recovered from one of the screwdrivers. Likewise, the DNA recovered from the bandana was confirmed to be that of Johnson.
Co-defendants George and Ofomata previously pleaded guilty and were sentenced to 480 months imprisonment. Defendant Johnson was convicted at trial in March 2022 and will be sentenced on July 13, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation along with the New Orleans Police Department and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Brittany L. Reed, Gregory M. Kennedy, and Inga Petrovich prosecuted the matter.
Orleans Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DAVID SINGLETON, age 62, of New Orleans, pled guilty to violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act. Specifically, SINGLETON pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B) and 846.
According to court documents, SINGLETON possessed over 500 grams of cocaine hydrochloride on about October 20, 2017 in New Orleans.
SINGLETON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $8,000,000, at least 8 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing for July 20, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Woman Charged with Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BLANCA ESTELA AVALOS ALEJANDRO, age 41, a native of Mexico, was charged today in a one-count indictment with illegally using a social security number in order to enroll in a safety class to qualify for employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
BLANCA ESTELA AVALOS ALEJANDRO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
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 Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.
Kentwood Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Employer and Filing False TaxesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on April 19, 2022 MICHAEL J. GOLL, age 46, of Kentwood, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and filing false federal tax returns. GOLL entered his guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter. Judge Vitter scheduled GOLL’s sentencing for July 26, 2022, at 1:30 p.m.
According to court documents, GOLL was the New Orleans branch manager of Company A, which provides material handling equipment to businesses. From January 2013 through September 2017, GOLL defrauded Company A of approximately $549,667.39. GOLL is alleged to have executed the scheme by sending Company A false invoices from shell companies that he had created, when in fact the work was either done by Company A’s own employees or the work was not done at all. As part of the scheme, GOLL had a contractor who did personal work for GOLL inflate his bills to Company A to cover the work done for GOLL. GOLL justified the overbilling by telling the contractor that he planned on buying Company A in the future, although GOLL never did purchase Company A, and GOLL never told his employer about the overbilling.
Additionally, GOLL pleaded guilty to filing false federal tax returns. According to court documents, GOLL filed false personal income tax returns for tax years 2014 through and including 2017 in which he failed to accurately report his income, including the money that he embezzled from Company A. Moreover, GOLL also counseled three other people, all of whom personally knew GOLL, to file false tax returns. GOLL told each of them, falsely, that he had graduated summa cum laude from the University of New Orleans with a Ph.D. in business administration, a degree that the University of New Orleans does not actually offer. GOLL persuaded them to become business partners in a fake restaurant enterprise, which they believed was a true business opportunity. GOLL then instructed them to file tax returns claiming business losses that were nonexistent. GOLL had them each pay to him a portion of the false tax refund. Through his own false tax returns and those of the three others that he aided, GOLL caused a tax loss to the United States of $188,694.00.
As to the charge of wire fraud, GOLL may receive up to a maximum of 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.00 or twice the gross gain or twice the gross loss to any victims. As to the charge of filing false tax returns, GOLL may receive up to 3 years in prison, up to one year of supervised release, and a fine of up to $100,000.00. Each count also carries a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. As part of his plea, GOLL agreed to make full restitution to Company A and to the IRS.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Secret Service and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, which investigated this case jointly. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne is in charge of the prosecution.
Guatemalan Man Charged with Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that FIDADELFO ANTONIO CAMEY-ESPANA, age 35, a native of Guatemala, was charged today in a one-count indictment with illegally using a social security number in order to enroll in a safety class to qualify for employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
FIDADELFO ANTONIO CAMEY-ESPANA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
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 Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.
Two More Defendants Sentenced for Conspiring to Stage Automobile Accidents to Defraud Insurance and Trucking CompaniesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that CHANDRIKA BROWN (“BROWN”), age 31, and AISHA THOMPSON (“THOMPSON"), age 44, both of New Orleans, Louisiana, were sentenced today for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans.
According to documents filed in federal court, BROWN, along with her co-defendants, Doniesha Gibson (Gibson), of New Orleans, Louisiana; and Ishais Price (Price), of New Orleans, and a co-defendant driver conspired to commit mail fraud in connection with a staged accident with a co-defendant driver on October 15, 2015. THOMPSON, along with her co-defendants, Dewayne Coleman, Erica Lee Thompson (“Erica Lee”), Donisha Lee, Passenger A, and another individual, conspired to commit mail fraud in connection with a staged accident with the same co-defendant driver, occurring on September 6, 2017. Thus far, the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” is thirty-six (36).
BROWN 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 Price. In truth, a co-defendant asked Gibson to recruit Brown and Price to ride along as passengers and he then 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.
Similarly, THOMPSON falsely claimed that on September 6, 2017, on the I-10 near the Almonaster exit, she was a passenger in co-defendant Erica Lee’s 2015 RAV4 being driven by their former co-defendant, when he intentionally crashed into a tractor-trailer owned by Averitt Express. After the staged accident, the driver exited the RAV4 and told Erica Lee to get behind the wheel of the RAV4 to make it appear that Erica Lee was driving the vehicle at the time of the staged accident. The defendants contacted the NOPD and falsely claimed that Erica Lee was the driver at the time of the collision. Passenger A falsely claimed to the NOPD that she was THOMPSON. Approximately one or two days after the staged accident, Coleman, Donisha Lee, Erica Lee, THOMPSON, and another individual went to an attorney’s office for the purpose of collecting money from the insurance and trucking company. THOMPSON and her co-defendants sought medical treatment from doctors and healthcare providers. THOMPSON was treated despite not being in the RAV4 at the time of the staged accident. THOMPSON retained counsel and made a claim for damages. The total settlement for the Averitt accident was $30,000. On March 26, 2019, Coleman, Donisha Lee, and another individual each provided false testimony in depositions taken in conjunction with the Thompson Lawsuit. On April 9, 2019, THOMPSON provided false testimony in a deposition taken in conjunction with the Thompson Lawsuit. In these depositions, THOMPSON and her co-defendants lied about the September 6, 2017 accident including, but not limited to, who was driving the RAV4 and the extent of their injuries.
United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced BROWN to 3 years’ probation, 100 hours community service, restitution in the amount of $121,076.75, and a $100.00 special assessment fee. and THOMPSON to 18 months incarceration, followed by 3 years of supervised release, 100 hours of community service, restitution in the amount of $677,500.00, and a $100.00 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.
Two Defendants Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LEON HENRY, age 39, of Atlanta, Georgia, and JABAR GIBSON, age 36, of New Orleans, Louisiana, were sentenced on April 19, 2022 before the Honorable Jay C. Zainey on charges of violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court records, HENRY and GIBSON conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin and a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. HENRY admitted to dispatching two couriers on trips between Baton Rouge and Houston with kilograms of heroin and cocaine.
Judge Zainey sentenced HENRY to 225 months and GIBSON to 188 months, respectively, in the federal Bureau of Prisons. Each also received three years of supervised release and was ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
Orleans Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms ViolationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on April 19, 2022, defendant EDWARD DAVIS, age 45, resident of New Orleans, LA, pled guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey to a federal weapons violation of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
In Count 1 of the indictment, DAVIS is charged with possessing two firearms on January 11, 2022, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). DAVIS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of up to 3 years supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. DAVIS’s sentencing is scheduled for July 28, 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 and the New Orleans Police 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.
Orleans Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Carjackings and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on April 19, 2022, defendant RICHARD JONES, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on April 10, 2022 before U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry to carjacking, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, burglary of a federal firearms licensee, and felon in possession of a firearm.
Specifically, RICHARD JONES pled guilty to Counts One, Two, Three, and Six of the indictment. JONES pled guilty to Count One, which charges him with a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). JONES also pled guilty to Count Two, which charges him with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, that is, a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code Section, 924(c)(1)(A). JONES also pled guilty to Count Three, which charges him with burglary of a federal firearms licensee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(u). Finally, JONES pled guilty to Count Six, which charges him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g) and 924(a)(2).
As to Count One, JONES faces a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. As to Count Two, JONES faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000, up to five years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Finally, as to Counts Three and Six, JONES faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. For each count of conviction, JONES, must pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee at sentencing. JONES's sentencing is scheduled for August 9, 2022.
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 the federal 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.
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Orleans Parish Financial Manager Charged with Embezzling over $200,000Read the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KATIE LAROCHE, age 53, from New Orleans, was charged on April 19, 2022 with wire fraud, based on her embezzlement of $233,363.53 from a client.
The government filed a one-count bill of information that charged LAROCHE with wire fraud involving conduct from 2015 through 2021. According to the bill of information, LAROCHE was a financial manager who handled bookkeeping, accounting, and other financial services for her clients. From 2015 through 2021, LAROCHE embezzled funds from one of her clients. LAROCHE hid the embezzlements by falsely indicating that withdrawals and transfers out of the victim’s account were for tax payments, when in fact the money was deposited into LAROCHE’s personal account or used for LAROCHE’s own purposes.
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, LAROCHE faces up to twenty years in prison. LAROCHE 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 LAROCHE or the gross loss to any victims, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicholas D. Moses and Jordan Ginsberg are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Woman Sentenced for Conspiring to Stage Automobile Accident in Order to Defraud Insurance and Trucking Company Out of $4.7 MillionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KEISHIRA ROBINSON (“K. ROBINSON”), age 27, of New Orleans, Louisiana was sentenced today for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of her involvement in a staged automobile accident that occurred on October 13, 2015. Thus far, the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” is thirty-six (36).
According to documents filed in federal court, A. Robinson, Harris, Schaffer, and K. ROBINSON intentionally collided with a tractor-trailer in the area of Alvar Street and France Road in New Orleans. Roderick Hickman (“Hickman”), who pled guilty to a previous indictment charging him and 10 others with staging automobile accidents, was driving A. Robinson’s vehicle at the time of this accident. Hickman intentionally struck a tractor-trailer owned and operated by C.R. England, and then was picked up from the collision site by Damian Labeaud (“Labeaud”), who has also pled guilty to a previous indictment as part of this investigation. After the accident, A. Robinson, who had been in Labeaud’s vehicle at the time of the accident, then got behind the wheel of his own vehicle to make it appear that he had been driving at the time of the staged accident. A. Robinson falsely reported to the NOPD that he had been driving and that the tractor-trailer had struck his vehicle.
All four defendants were referred to an attorney who paid Labeaud for staging this accident, among others. All of the defendants were treated by doctors and healthcare providers at the direction of their attorneys, and A. Robinson, Harris, and Schaffer underwent surgeries. In total, in July 2019, the victim trucking and insurance company paid out approximately $4.7 million for the fraudulent claims associated with this staged accident.
United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced K. ROBINSON to 5 years’ probation, restitution ordered in the amount of $4,725,000, $100 mandatory special assessment, and the court granted the preliminary order of forfeiture in the amount of $5,000.
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 Brandon Long, Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit, Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Rivera.
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Former U.S. Army Sergeant Sentenced for Bank FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSHUA HOCKLESS, age 29, a resident of Belle Chasse, was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release by the Honorable Sarah S. Vance, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Also, the Court ordered HOCKLESS to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee and $138,859.21 in restitution to the United Services Automobile Association Federal Savings Bank (USAA).
According to court records, HOCKLESS was an Army Sergeant in the Headquarters Company, 377th Theater Sustainment Command, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Belle Chasse. HOCKLESS had a bank account at USAA and learned that USAA allowed service members to withdraw deposits before the funds formally cleared the issuing bank. Knowing this, HOCKLESS opened bank accounts at third-party banks with minimal funding, made online wire transfers from those banks to USAA, and withdrew the deposits from USAA before it detected that there were insufficient funds in the issuing bank account. HOCKLESS obtained approximately $36,119.47 as a result of these fraudulent transfers between his accounts. HOCKLESS then asked other enlisted personnel to open USAA and third-party bank accounts. The other enlisted personnel then shared with HOCKLESS, their online banking passwords. HOCKLESS used these passwords to make similar fraudulent transfers to their USAA accounts and instructed them when to withdraw the cash to split with HOCKLESS. These transfers resulted in approximately $102,739.74 being fraudulently withdrawn from USAA – approximately half of which ($51,369.57) was received by HOCKLESS.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Army Criminal Investigations Command. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Chief of the General Crimes Unit.
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Former Postal Employee Sentenced for Delay of U.S. MailRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the April 19, 2022 sentencing of MILES J. DUPERON, age 29, of Slidell, to one count of delay of U.S. Mail matter by postal employee, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 1703(a).
According to the bill of information, on or about July 2019 through January 21, 2020, MILES J. DUPERON unlawfully delayed U.S. mail, which was intended to be conveyed by mail.
U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced MILES J. DUPERON to one year probation and a mandatory $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney M. Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
El Salvadoran National Sentenced to Illegal Re-Entry of a Deported Alien Previously Convicted of a FelonyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the April 19, 2022 sentencing of HECTOR RODRIGUEZ-RODRIGUEZ, age 55, for the charge of reentry of a deported alien previously convicted of a felony, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a) and (b)(2).
According to the bill of information, HECTOR RODRIGUEZ-RODRIGUEZ, unlawfully reentered the United States after having been deported on October 27, 1992.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced HECTOR RODRIGUEZ-RODRIGUEZ to a term of imprisonment of eighty-seven months, a term of supervised release of three years, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
Bogalusa Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JA’VONTAY OWENS, age 28, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. The Court imposed concurrent seventy-two (72) month sentences as to Counts 1-2 and a consecutive sixty (60) month sentence as to Count 3 followed by four (4) years of supervised release. The Court ordered OWENS to pay a total of $300 in mandatory special assessment fees. OWENS plead guilty to a three-count indictment charging him with Possession with Intent to Distribute Five (5) Grams or More of Methamphetamine, a Quantity of Cocaine Base (“Crack”), and a Quantity of Heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B), and (b)(1)(C) (Count 1), Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2) (Count 2), and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A) (Count 3).
According to court documents, on September 26, 2020, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputies executed a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by OWENS on Highway 21 in Bogalusa, Louisiana. Deputies immediately smelled marijuana on OWENS and placed him under arrest. While searching OWENS pursuant to his arrest, deputies retrieved approximately twenty-seven (27) grams of methamphetamine from OWENS’s underwear. As the deputies searched OWENS’s vehicle, they located approximately five (5) grams of cocaine base and less than one (1) gram of heroin under the driver’s seat of the vehicle. In the rear driver side door of the vehicle, deputies located a loaded black Glock, Model 19, nine millimeter, semi-automatic pistol.
OWENS is a previously convicted felon and was aware of his felon status prior to possession of the firearm.
This case was investigated by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Laplace Woman Charged with Wire FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ANITA WILLENE HOBDY, age 67, from LaPlace, was charged on April 15, 2022 with wire fraud, stemming from fraudulent charges made from First Baptist Church of LaPlace.
The government filed a one-count bill of information that charged HOBDY with wire fraud involving conduct from 2015 through 2021. According to the bill of information, HOBDY worked as a bookkeeper for the church’s daycare and embezzled over $175,000 from church accounts during that period.
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, HOBDY faces up to twenty years in prison. HOBDY 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 HOBDY or the gross loss to any victims, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to Twenty-Eight Months of Imprisonment for Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - The U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Duane A. Evans announced that JOSEPH CAMPO (“CAMPO”) was sentenced on April 14, 2022 to 28 months of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 after pleading guilty in federal court relating to his role in a health care fraud conspiracy.
CAMPO, age 79, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on February 25, 2021 before U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to Count One of a bill of information charging him with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
According to the bill of information, in or around March 2014, continuing through in or around October 2016, CAMPO and his co-defendants conspired to knowingly and willfully execute a scheme and artifice to defraud TRICARE, a federal health care benefit program affecting commerce, and other health care benefit programs.
Prime Pharmacy contracted with various entities, including Pharmacy Benefit Managers (“PBMs”), obligating Prime Pharmacy to collect copayments from beneficiaries in order to be reimbursed by various health care benefit programs, including TRICARE. CAMPO worked with co-defendants to market the compounded medications produced by Prime Pharmacy. CAMPO and his co-conspirators worked with marketers outside of the state to find beneficiaries that were willing to receive medically unnecessary compounds and doctors willing to prescribe compounds without medical necessity.
Beginning in or around March 2014, and continuing through in or around April 2016, Prime Pharmacy dispensed prescriptions for High-Yield Compounded Medications to beneficiaries of TRICARE and other health care benefit programs that were not medically necessary, induced by kickback payments, or where copayments were either waived or credited by Prime Pharmacy, and accordingly, submitted or caused to be submitted false and fraudulent claims for reimbursement to TRICARE, other health care benefit programs, and PBMs.
CAMPO was also ordered to repay TRICARE $3 million in restitution.
“Individuals involved in this scheme illegally billed TRICARE out of close to $15 million and I am pleased that the U.S. Attorney’s Office is requiring justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Cynthia Bruce, Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Southeast Field Office. “There are no victimless crimes and DCIS agents will continue to pursue unscrupulous greedy individuals who steal from our military health care system and all taxpayers.”
“Those entrusted with providing health care services to veterans and their family members will be held accountable should they violate that trust,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Breen of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s South Central Field Office. “The VA OIG is grateful to the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their efforts to achieve justice in this case.”
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Department of Homeland Security, the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General, and the United States Postal Service – Office of Inspector General.
The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison for Conspiracy and Filing Fraudulent Tax Returns for ClientsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – A Louisiana woman was sentenced today to one year and one day in prison for conspiring to defraud the United States and helping clients file false tax returns.
On Nov. 14, 2019, Brittany Patterson, of St. John the Baptist Parish, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and aiding and assisting in the filing of false tax returns. According to court documents, Michegel Butler owned Crown Tax Service LLC, where Patterson worked as a tax return preparer. From approximately January 2013 through April 2013, Patterson, Butler and others conspired to inflate their clients’ refunds by preparing tax returns claiming false Schedule C businesses, dependents and dependent care expenses. To substantiate the false income and expenses reported on their tax returns, Patterson and the other co-conspirators directed clients to fill out fraudulent receipts. They also encouraged some clients to buy or sell the personal identification information of dependents that could be falsely reported on tax returns.
In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier ordered Patterson to serve three years of supervised release and pay approximately $90,856 in restitution to the United States.
On Feb. 4, 2021, Butler was sentenced to two years in prison for his role in the conspiracy.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana made the announcement.
IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Jessica Kraft of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Dall Kammer of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana prosecuted the case.
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