Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Orleans Parish Man Indicted for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KENDALL GILMER, JR., age 41, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged October 28, 2021, in a three-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), and being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, on October 18, 2021, GILMER possessed with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. GILMER, having previously been convicted of a felony, also illegally possessed two firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes: a Rock Island Armory Model M1911 A1, .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun, and a Smith & Wesson Model M&P M2.0, .45 caliber semi-automatic handgun.
If convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, GILMER faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000 and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, GILMER faces a statutory minimum sentence of five years of imprisonment, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000 and up to five years of supervised release. If convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, GILMER faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and up to three years supervised release. For each of the three counts of the indictment, GILMER also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ben Myers.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – The Honorable Sarah S. Vance sentenced JEFFERY HOLMES, age 46, of New Orleans, Louisiana, to 30 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, HOLMES conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin. HOLMES admitted to being captured on recorded calls as part of a lengthy Title III wire intercept.
United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced HOLMES to 30 months custody in the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. HOLMES was also ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment.
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.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Narcotics and Weapons ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant KIRK THOMPSON, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Lance M. Africk to possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with the intent to distribute cocaine, and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
THOMPSON pled guilty to Count One, which charges him with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). THOMPSON also pled guilty to Count Two, which charges him with possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, that is, possession with intent to distribute both fentanyl and cocaine, in violation of Title 18, United States Code Section, 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
As to Count One, THOMPSON faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. As to Count Two, THOMPSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 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 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. THOMPSON’S sentencing is scheduled for February 16, 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.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that REYNAUD KENDRELL VARISTE (“VARISTE”), age 32, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A) and possession with intent to distribute heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
The Court set sentencing in this matter for February 3, 2022 at 1:30 p.m. VARISTE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years, a maximum fine of up to $1,000,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release for drug trafficking and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. VARISTE further faces a minimum of five (5) years to be served consecutively and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a supervised release term of up to five (5) years and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation on investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn M. McHugh is prosecuting the case.
Houma Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, the Federal Gun Control Act, and Assaulting a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSHUA BOGEN, age 30, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, was charged October 28, 2021, in a four-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a drug trafficking offense in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), and assaulting a federal officer in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(b), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the indictment, on October 18, 2021, BOGEN possessed with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. BOGEN, having previously been convicted of a felony, illegally possessed a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes. He also used this firearm, a Glock Model 26 Gen 4, nine-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, to forcibly assault a Drug Enforcement Administration Task Force Officer.
If convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, BOGEN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a drug trafficking offense, BOGEN faces a statutory minimum sentence of seven years of imprisonment, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. If convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, BOGEN faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release. If convicted of assaulting a federal officer, BOGEN faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years supervised release. For each of the four counts of the indictment, BOGEN faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ben Myers.
El Salvadoran National Charged with Illegal Re-Entry of a Deported Alien Previously Convicted of a FelonyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that HECTOR RODRIGUEZ-RODRIGUEZ, age 55, was charged in a one-count bill of information for 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 reentered the United States after he was previously deported on October 27, 1992. Furthermore, on or about May 29, 2019, the defendant was convicted of illegal possession of less than two grams of cocaine and aggravated battery in St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana.
If convicted, HECTOR RODRIGUEZ-RODRIGUEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of three years, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
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 the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Irene Gonzalez is in charge of the prosecution.
Owner of the Taxman Financial Services Pleads Guilty to Aiding in Filing False TaxesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LEROI G. JACKSON, age 49, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to a bill of information charging him with one count of aiding and assisting in the filing of false tax returns, a violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2).
According to court records, JACKSON is the owner and operator of The Taxman Financial Services LLC (“Taxman”), a business that prepares federal and state tax returns for customers. Taxman has an office in New Orleans and in LaPlace. Through the course of this investigation, federal agents determined that JACKSON filed false income tax returns for numerous Taxman customers. For example, JACKSON would create false business losses or false education credits, all without his clients’ knowledge. JACKSON had several employees obtain an IRS Electronic Filing Identification Number (EFIN), which allowed the employees to file customer taxes. However, many of these employees never used their EFINs. JACKSON would then use his employees’ EFINs to file false tax returns for customers. JACKSON profited by charging at least $500 per return, which would be deducted from a customer’s refund. From tax years 2014 through 2016, JACKSON admitted that he caused a tax loss to the United States of $241,214.00. JACKSON charged each taxpayer
JACKSON faces a maximum sentence of three years of imprisonment, a $100,000.00 fine, up to one (1) year of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Further, as part of his plea agreement, JACKSON agreed to a permanent injunction against preparing tax returns for other taxpayers. Judge Morgan scheduled the sentencing hearing for Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at 2 pm.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, which handled this investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew R. Payne is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Resident Sentenced to 42 Months for Trafficking Heroin with His Uncle and Six OthersRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KEVIN COFFIL, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on October 26, 2021 to 42 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan for conspiring to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. The Court imposed a term of supervised release of 36 months. COFFIL must also pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court records, COFFIL conspired with codefendant Arthur Johnson, his uncle, and six others to distribute heroin throughout the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas.
A search warrant executed on Arthur Johnson’s residence in New Orleans East on December 28, 2017, resulted in the seizure of approximately 1.3 kilograms of heroin, a kilo press which is used to package heroin, digital scales, and other tools of the drug trade.
That evening, agents established surveillance in the vicinity of the 7500 block of Vanderkloot Avenue in New Orleans. Agents observed a blue Jeep Wrangler park in the driveway of an address in the area. COFFIL exited the car and began walking around the back carrying a Lululemon bag. Agents approached the car and detained COFFIL. Agents advised COFFIL of his rights. Agents searched the bag and saw that it contained over $113,000 in US currency. COFFILL, Arthur Johnson, and the other codefendants were charged in 2018 with conspiring to distribute heroin in the New Orleans and Baton Rouge areas.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the FBI’s New Orleans Gang Task Force in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Howard Sinkman is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Resident Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Illegal Narcotics and to Providing a Co-Defendant with a Loaded AK-47 Found in a Mercedes During a Traffic StopRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that LIONEL COOLEY, age 45, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, pled guilty to conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of crack and to providing an AK-47 firearm to codefendant Blake Monroe that was used to facilitate crack sales.
COOLEY is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years up to forty (40) years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four (4) years of supervised release upon his release from prison, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for the drug distribution offense, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. COOLEY also faces a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release from prison, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for the firearm offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o).
According to court records, COOLEY and four others, Joseph Brown, Kendrick Demourelle, 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, and, according to court records, a seized GMC Sierra pickup truck used by a member of this conspiracy contained nearly two kilograms of cocaine and 430 grams of crack.
During a December 11, 2019 traffic stop, New Orleans Police Department Officers also observed in plain sight a loaded AK-47, with the selector switch in the fire position, on the back floor of a white Mercedes driven by Blake Monroe. COOLEY had given Monroe this AK-47 so Monroe could sell crack cocaine.
U.S. District Judge Wendy Vitter will sentence COOLEY on February 1, 2022 at 2pm. COOLEY, Brown, Demourelle, Gray, and Monroe were charged in February 2020 with conspiring to distribute cocaine, crack, and heroin in the New Orleans area.
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.
Houma Man Pleads Guilty to Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that STEVE C. MERGEY (“MERGEY”), age 52, of Houma, Louisiana, pled guilty today to Production of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2251(a) and (e).
According to documents filed in federal court, the case against MERGEY developed as a result of a complaint to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (“HSI”) Tip Line. On June 4, 2020, HSI Agents executed a federal search warrant at MERGEY’S residence located on W. Main Street, Houma, LA. HSI’s investigation revealed that MERGEY groomed and coerced young male victims, as young as ten years old, in Pennsylvania, New York, and Michigan to create and send sexually explicit images of themselves to MERGEY.
MERGEY faces a mandatory minimum sentence of fifteen (15) years and a maximum sentence of thirty (30) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $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, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for January 25, 2021, before United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter.
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 U. S. Department of Homeland Security, Houma RAC and Pittsburg Office; Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office; Houma Police Department; Louisiana State Police, Criminal Investigative Division; and Oswego County Sheriff’s Office, NY 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.
Former Postal Worker Pleads Guilty to Issuing Money Orders Without Receiving Full PaymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SHANNEL SMITH, age 41, of Orleans Parish, Louisiana, pled guilty to issuing money orders without receiving full payment in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 500.
According to court documents, beginning in May 2019 and continuing until August 2019, SMITH, being an employee of the United States Postal Service, for the purpose of fraudulently enabling herself to obtain and receive, directly and indirectly, a sum of money from the United States, issued eight (8) postal money orders with face amounts of $150.00, $110.71, $100.00, $125.00, $80.00, $140.00, $100.00, and $150.00 without having previously received the full amount payable to the United States for these money orders.
SMITH faces up to five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee based on the charge outlined in the bill of information. United States District Judge Africk set sentencing for February 16, 2022 at 2pm.
This case was investigated by special agents from the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (“USPS-OIG”). The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachal Cassagne.
Chalmette Resident Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Heroin and CocaineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that KEVIN GRAY, age 49, a resident of Chalmette, Louisiana, pled guilty to conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. GRAY is facing a sentence of up to forty (40) years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release upon his release from prison, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court records, GRAY and four others, Joseph Brown, Lionel Cooley, Kendrick Demourelle, and Blake Monroe, conspired to sell illegal narcotics in New Orleans. Law enforcement officers seized more than 400 grams of heroin, more than 120 grams of cocaine, and a pill press inside GRAY’s home during a court authorized search.
U.S. District Judge Wendy Vitter will sentence GRAY on February 1, 2022 at 1:30pm. GRAY, Brown, Cooley, Demourelle, and Monroe were charged in February 2020 with conspiring to distribute cocaine, crack, and heroin in the New Orleans area.
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.
Washington Parish Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TREVION HARRIS, a/k/a “Trigga,” age 24, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 120 months imprisonment, 60 months of supervised release and payment of a $600 mandatory special assessment fee after pleading guilty to six counts of an twelve-count indictment charging him and two of his brothers with several narcotics offenses, including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. HARRIS also pled to three (3) counts of distribution of a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, one (1) count of distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and one (1) count of distribution of a quantity of cocaine base (“crack”).
According to court documents, Special Agents with Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms identified TREVION HARRIS as a methamphetamine trafficker in Bogalusa, Louisiana. Using a confidential source, beginning in November of 2018 through May 1, 2019, agents made controlled purchases of methamphetamine from TREVION, Jonzarrion and Demarquiez HARRIS in amounts ranging from two (2) grams to as many as eight (8) ounces.
For the conspiracy charge, TREVION HARRIS faced a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years up to a maximum term 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. The four counts of distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine and crack carry the same penalty of a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three (3) years supervised release. The distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine carries the following penalty of a mandatory minimum term of five (5) years imprisonment up to a maximum term of forty (40) years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years supervised release. HARRIS must pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count of conviction.
This prosecution was part of an extensive investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Bogalusa Police Department of individuals suspected of trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and/or firearms in the Bogalusa area. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Washington Parish Man Sentenced After Pleading Guilty Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JONZARRION HARRIS, a/k/a “GEE,” age 21, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 120 months’ imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release and a mandatory $500 special assessment fee after pleading guilty to five counts of an twelve-count indictment charging him and two of his brothers with several narcotics offenses, including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, Special Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms identified Trevion HARRIS as a methamphetamine trafficker in Bogalusa, Louisiana. Using a confidential source, beginning in November of 2018 and continuing through May 1, 2019, agents made controlled purchases of methamphetamine from Trevion, JONZARRION and Demarquiez HARRIS in amounts ranging from two (2) grams to as many as eight (8) ounces.
JONZARRION HARRIS faced a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count following any term of imprisonment.
This prosecution was part of an extensive investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Bogalusa Police Department of individuals suspected of trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and/or firearms in the Bogalusa area. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Golden Meadow Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that EVERETT J. DILLON (“DILLON”), age 34, of Golden Meadow, Louisiana, pled guilty today to 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 DILLON developed as a result of a lead to the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (“LBI”) that a KIK user had sent explicit videos of children, aged approximately ten (10) years of age. On December 1, 2020, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) special agents along with the LBI executed a search warrant at DILLON’s home in Golden Meadow. Agents advised DILLON of his Miranda rights and, after waiving his rights, DILLON admitted that the KIK account and email address were his and that he stored child pornography on his electronic equipment. HSI computer forensic examiners located over 4,000 images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of children on the defendant’s AT&T cellular phone. The images and videos depict pre-pubescent girls, including toddlers, engaged in sexual acts with adults.
DILLON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $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, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for January 25, 2022 at 2:00 pm, before United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter.
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.
Couple Sentenced for Selling Turtles in Violation of the Lacey ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that VINCENT FELIX RIVERE, age 48, and MEGAN LYNN SHOEMAKER, age 36, residents of Maurepas, Louisiana, were sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to selling Louisiana box turtles on July 13, 2017. United States District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter sentenced RIVERE and SHOEMAKER to serve one (1) year of probation.
On July 13, 2017, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agent arrived at the Office Depot parking lot in Covington, LA to arrange a previously negotiated undercover purchase of 29 Louisiana common box turtles from RIVERE. RIVERE and SHOEMAKER were waiting at the location. The undercover agent greeted them, and RIVERE and SHOEMAKER began removing sacks containing Louisiana common box turtles from the trunk of his car. The undercover agent then paid RIVERE $680.00 in cash for the 29 Louisiana common box turtles.
After the transaction, a traffic stop was performed. RIVERE was operating the vehicle and was in possession of the $680 he had received from the undercover agent. The agent checked the serial numbers on the money that RIVERE possessed and it matched the serial numbers on the money that had been provided from the undercover agent.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Homeland Security Investigations and the United Postal Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Saint Charles Parish Area Drug Traffickers Plead Guilty to Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that, on October 19, 2021, DUVELL LONDON, JR., 41, of St. Rose, La., and JEREMY LEVANDA, age 40, of Destrehan, La., 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 further 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 faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years up to a maximum of 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least 4 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and $1,200 in mandatory special assessment fees. LEVANDA faces up to a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Wendy Vitter set sentencing for January 11, 2022.
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, and St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Nolan Paige and Paige O’Hale.
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Indiana Native Sentenced for 2019 Attempt Armed Robbery of Uptown CVS Which Resulted in Shooting of NOPD OfficerRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on October 19, 2021 that ALAN PARSON, age 21, a resident of Indianapolis, Indiana, was sentenced in the United States District Court for his participation in the June 17, 2019 robbery of the CVS pharmacy located at 4901 Prytania Street.
United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry imposed a sentence to each count of the three-count Indictment to which PARSON plead guilty. In Count One, PARSON was charged with conspiracy to commit a robbery involving a controlled substance, in violation of Title 18, United States Section, 2118. For Count One, the court sentenced PARSON sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 120 months in the Bureau of Prisons. In Count Two, PARSON was charged with armed robbery involving controlled substances in violation of Title 18, United States Sections, 2118(a) and (c)(1). For Count Two, the court sentenced PARSON sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 121 months in the Bureau of Prisons. Count 1 and 2 were ordered to run consecutive with one another. In Count Three, PARSON was charged with discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Section, 924(c)(1)(A)(iii). The Court sentenced PARSON to a term of imprisonment of 120 months for this count. The sentence imposed in Count Three will run consecutive to the sentences imposed in Counts One and Two. Following his term of imprisonment, PARSON will be placed on supervised release for a period of 4 years. A restitution hearing will be held to determine if any restitution is owed to the victims in this case. Finally, PARSON was ordered to pay a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.
At approximately 6:06 a.m., PARSON and his co-defendant, Richard Sansbury entered the 24-hour pharmacy, armed with weapons. Both wore hooded sweatshirts and blue medical gloves. Upon entering the store, Sansbury removed a firearm from his waistband, went behind the front counter, and detained a cashier by using zip-ties. Sansbury led the cashier to another area of the store. PARSON relocated to the rear of the store, in the pharmacy area, and forced another employee to the ground before securing the employee’s feet with zip-ties. PARSON is then filled a large trash bag with several pill bottles that he retrieved from the pharmacy safe. Sansbury relocated to the pharmacy area where he continued to zip-tie the employee’s hands whom PARSON initially detained. Sansbury and PARSON began to exit the store.
Upon exiting the store, PARSON and Sansbury engaged on a shootout with responding officers of the New Orleans Police Department. The confrontation resulted in a bullet wound to one of the officers, who was shot in the shoulder. Video surveillance captured the robbery as it occurred inside of the CVS, as well as the subsequent shootout with police as Sansbury and PARSON fled the store.
United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry will sentence SANSBURY on November 30, 2021.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David Haller and Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Convicted Felon Indicted for Possessing Fentanyl, Heroin, and a Firearm in the Lower Ninth WardRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on October 21, 2021, GEORGE JEFFERSON, age 45, a resident of New Orleans, has been charged in a four-count Indictment for possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of heroin. JEFFERSON, a convicted felon, is also charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
For possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, JEFFERSON faces a minimum of five (5) years imprisonment up to a statutory maximum forty (40) years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four (4) years of supervised release in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(B)(1)(B). For possession with intent to distribute heroin, JEFFERSON faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least three (3) years of supervised release in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). JEFFERSON also faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years of imprisonment, imposed consecutively to the charged drug offenses, for possessing a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber gun, in furtherance of dealing fentanyl and heroin, in violation of Title 18, United States Code Section 924(c). If convicted, JEFFERSON faces a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each charge.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the New Orleans Police Department and the FBI in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Howard Sinkman is in charge of the prosecution.
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Owner of Construction and Building Inspection Businesses and Two Employees Charged with Tax FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Department of Justice’s Tax Division announced that RANDY A. FARRELL SR., and DAVID FARRELL, both of Jefferson Parish, and DAWN FARRELL RUIZ, of St. Tammany Parish, were charged in a superseding bill of information with conspiring to defraud the IRS.
According to court documents, from 2011 through at least June 2019, RANDY FARRELL, an owner of construction and building inspection businesses, and his two siblings and employees, DAVID FARRELL and DAWN FARRELL RUIZ, conspired to defraud the IRS by failing to report their full personal income to the IRS and by failing to withhold employment taxes from employees’ wages. RANDY FARRELL and Mathew Reck co-owned two construction businesses, SES Construction Consulting Group (“SES”) and Global Technical Solutions (“GTS”). As co-owners, RANDY FARRELL and Reck caused certain SES and GTS employees, including DAVID FARRELL and RUIZ, to be paid outside of the normal payroll process such that employment taxes were not withheld from their paychecks. The three defendants and others then caused SES and GTS to issue Forms W-2 to employees that fraudulently underreported their actual compensation. Since DAVID FARRELL and RUIZ were paid outside of the normal payroll process and received false Forms W-2, they were able to fraudulently avoid paying federal income and employment taxes on their salaries. Reck previously pled guilty to conspiring with these three defendants to defraud the IRS.
In addition to SES and GTS, RANDY FARRELL has also co-owned a building inspection business, IECI & Associates LLC (“IECI”), since 2007. After the IRS executed a search warrant at RANDY FARRELL’s home and companies’ offices in September 2017, he filed tax returns that falsely underreported the taxable income he earned from his businesses.
If convicted of these charges, RANDY FARRELL, DAVID FARRELL, and RUIZ each faces up to five years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, as well as a fine, restitution, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. A bill of information is merely a charge, and the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Justice Department’s Tax Division and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana praised the work of IRS Criminal Investigation. Trial Attorneys William Montague and Parker Tobin of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana are in charge of the prosecution.
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Former Phone Company Employee Sentenced to Three Months Probation for Role in Sim Swap Scam Conspiracy That Targeted at Least 19 Customers, Including New Orleans ResidentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane Evans announced that STEPHEN DANIEL DEFIORE age 36, a resident of Brandon, Florida, was sentenced on October 19, 2021 to three (3) months probation, with one year of home confinement by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information charging with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343, for his role in a SIM Swap scam that targeted at least nineteen people, including a New Orleans-area physician. DEFIORE was also sentenced to 100 hours of community service, payment of $77,417.50 in restitution and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, a SIM Swap scam is a cellular phone account takeover fraud that results in the routing of a victim’s incoming calls and text messages to a different phone. Once a perpetrator is able to swap the SIM card, it is likely he is able to obtain access to a victim’s various personal accounts, including email accounts, bank accounts, and cryptocurrency accounts, as well as any other accounts that use two-factor authentication.
From August 2017 until November 2018, DEFIORE worked as a sales representative for Phone Company A. In that capacity, DEFIORE had access to the accounts of Phone Company A’s customers, including the ability to switch the subscriber identification module (SIM) card linked to a customer’s phone number to a different phone number. Between October 20, 2018, and November 9, 2018, DEFIORE accepted multiple bribes, typically in the amount of approximately $500 per day, to perform SIM swaps of Phone Company A customers identified by a co-conspirator. For each SIM swap, a co-conspirator sent DEFIORE a customer’s phone number, a four-digit PIN, and a SIM card number to which the phone number was to be swapped. In total, DEFIORE received approximately $2,325 in a series of twelve payments. Among the individuals whose accounts DEFIORE accessed was Victim A, a New Orleans resident, who phone number was swapped on November 10, 2018, to a SIM card contained in an Apple iPhone 8 that was in the possession of Richard Li. Li was charged with his role in the offense in June 2020 and was charged in a superseding indictment in August 2021.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Corruption Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Who Sold Fake Louisiana Drivers’ Licenses Sentenced to 42 Months for Access Device Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RYAN CLARK, age 35, of New Orleans, LA, was sentenced on October 13, 2021 to 42 months of incarceration by U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk for having committed conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft (count 1) and aggravated identity theft (count 3).
According to court documents, the defendant was arrested after an investigation initiated by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service. CLARK and others created and sold fake Louisiana drivers’ licenses with the names and dates of birth of real persons who were victims of identity theft. Using the fake licenses, CLARK facilitated the sale of at least six motor vehicles from several local dealerships. The fraudsters would use the stolen identities and the fake licenses to buy high end used cars. No money was ever paid and the loans went into default.
In addition to incarceration, CLARK was sentenced to three (3) years of supervised release and payment of a mandatory $200 special assessment fee. His self-surrender date is set for January 3, 2022, and a restitution hearing was set for January 5, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the agencies that contributed to this indictment, which represents a coordinated effort of federal and state law enforcement authorities within the United States Secret Service Louisiana Cyber Fraud Task Force (CFTF). U.S. Attorney Evans also thanked the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Weapon ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on October 13, 2021, defendant DARIUS WILLIAMS, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty as charged before U.S. District Court Judge Lance M. Africk.
Count 1 of the Indictment charges WILLIAMS with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). WILLIAMS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. WILLIAMS’s sentencing is scheduled for January 19, 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Carjacking and Weapons ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant TOMMIE MANGO, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on October 13, 2021 before U.S. District Court Judge Lance M. Africk to carjacking and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.
Specifically, TOMMIE MANGO pled guilty to Counts One and Two of a Superseding Bill of Information. MANGO pled guilty to Count One, which charges him with a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2119(1) and 2. MANGO also pled guilty to Count Two, which charges him with brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, that is, a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii).
As to Count One, MANGO faces a maximum sentence of 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. As to Count Two, MANGO faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 7 years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, to be run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. MANGO'S sentencing is scheduled for January 19, 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.
Laplace Man Sentenced for Being Felon in Possession of Ammunition at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International AirportRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DWAYNE BROWN, age 34, a resident of Laplace, Louisiana, was sentenced for being a felon in possession of ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. The Honorable Barry W. Ashe sentenced the defendant to 37 months in prison, three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, on or about October 1, 2019, BROWN attempted to go through security at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. At that time, BROWN was in possession of a “ghost” gun – a firearm that has no serial number or manufacturer’s marks of identification affixed to it. The firearm was assembled at an unknown time and location from a kit distributed by Polymer80, Inc. Moreover, the firearm was affixed with an auto-sear which permitted it to fire automatically. Along with the firearm, BROWN was in possession of $35,000 in cash and two 30-round magazines containing approximately 28 rounds each. Prior to this, BROWN had been convicted in the 40th Judicial Court, State of Louisiana, for aggravated flight from an officer, simple criminal damage to property, and unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.
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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorneys G. Dall Kammer and Rachal Cassagne.
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Former Postal Worker Sentenced to One Year Probation After Pleading Guilty to Mail Theft from Paulina, La Post OfficeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LACEY STEWART, age 34, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana was sentenced on October 13, 2021 to one year probation after pleading guilty as charged to a one count Bill of Information on June 29, 2021. She was charged in 2021 by a Bill of Information with Mail Theft, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708.
In papers filed with the court signed by LACEY STEWART, she admitted to being an employee of the Paulina, Louisiana Post Office. She further admitted to stealing a $1,000.00 postal money order from an Express Mail package she handled. She removed the postal money order from the package and cashed it at the Paulina Post Office. Her theft was discovered when the person to whom the package was delivered discovered that the postal money order was missing.
Judge Wendy Vitter ordered STEWART to pay $1,000.00 in restitution, as well as a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Office of Inspector General of the United States Postal Service in investigating the matter. The case was being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice Jr.
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Postal Worker Charged with Issuing Money Orders Without Receiving Full PaymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SHANNEL SMITH, age 41, of Orleans Parish, Louisiana, was charged on October 12, 2021 in a one-count superseding bill of information for issuing money orders without receiving full payment in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 500.
According to court documents, beginning in May 2019 and continuing until August 2019, SMITH, being an employee of the Postal Service, for the purpose of fraudulently enabling herself to obtain and receive, directly and indirectly, a sum of money from the United States, issued eight (8) postal money orders with face amounts of $150.00, $110.71, $100.00, $125.00, $80.00, $140.00, $100.00, and $150.00 without having previously received the full amount payable to the United States for these money orders.
If convicted, SMITH faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee based on the charge outlined in the superseding bill of information.
U.S. Attorney Evans stated that the superseding bill of information is merely a charge and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was investigated by special agents from the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (“USPS-OIG”). The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachal Cassagne.
Bank Teller Pleads Guilty to Embezzling Customer FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DEMETRIA MYERS SILVIO, age 32, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on October 13, 2021 to Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.
According to court documents, between December 3, 2018 and December 6, 2019, SILVIO forged approximately 66 checks that were drawn on IberiaBank accounts belonging to five customers. SILVIO deposited the fraudulent checks into her own bank accounts with Chase Bank and Capital One. Through this scheme, SILVIO embezzled approximately $63,059.82.
SILVIO faces a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000.00 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person. In addition, SILVIO faces a term of supervised release of up to three (3) years after her release from prison and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. The Honorable Wendy B. Vitter set sentencing for January 18, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria M. Carboni.
Laplace Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon sentenced RICHARD GRAY, age 60, of LaPlace, Louisiana, on October 7, 2021 to 18 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 846, 843(b), and 18 U.S.C. Section 2, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court records, in Count One, GRAY conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride. In Count Six, GRAY knowingly and intentionally used a telephone in committing, causing, and facilitating the commission of the violation in Count One. During the investigation, law enforcement learned GRAY transported cocaine hydrochloride from Texas to Louisiana and used a cellular phone to facilitate the transportation of the narcotics.
District Judge Lemmon sentenced GRAY to the 18 months imprisonment to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release as to Counts One and Six of the Indictment. Judge Lemmon also ordered that GRAY pay a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
The case was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Saint John the Baptist Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare prosecuted the matter.
New Orleans Men Sentenced for Two Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – BYRON WATSON, age 32, and REGINALD LUMAR, age 30, residents of New Orleans, were sentenced this week by the Honorable Susie Morgan, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. WATSON was sentenced to 72 months of incarceration and LUMAR was sentenced to 51 months of incarceration. Both men were ordered to serve three (3) years of supervised release after completion of their prison sentences and payment of $200 mandatory special assessment fees. The defendants were also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $15,576.
According to Count One of the indictment, on September 10, 2019, WATSON and LUMAR robbed the Total Choice Federal Credit Union located at 100 Palmetto Drive in LaPlace, Louisiana. They obtained $7,841 in the robbery. According to Count Two of the indictment, on September 26, 2019, WATSON and LUMAR robbed the Fidelity Bank located at 9099 Jefferson Highway, Jefferson, Louisiana. They obtained $7,735 in that robbery.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crime Task Force, Louisiana State Police Crime Lab as well as officers with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, and St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Stage Automobile Accidents in Order to Defraud Insurance and Trucking CompaniesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that AISHA THOMPSON (“THOMPSON”), age 43, of New Orleans, Louisiana, entered a plea of guilty on October 6, 2021 to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans.
According to the guilty plea, THOMPSON, along with her co-defendants, Dewayne Coleman, Erica Lee Thompson (“Erica Lee”), Donisha Lee, Passenger A, and Donreion Lee, conspired to commit mail fraud in connection with a staged accident with Cornelius Garrison, occurring on September 6, 2017. Today’s guilty plea brings the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” to twenty-eight (28).
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, Donreion Lee, Erica Lee, and THOMPSON went to an attorney’s office for the purpose of collecting money from the insurance and trucking company. Coleman, Donisha Lee, Donreion Lee, Erica Lee, and THOMPSON 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 Donreion Lee 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, Coleman, Donisha Lee, and Donreion Lee, lied about the September 6, 2017 accident including, but not limited to, who was driving the RAV4 and the extent of their injuries.
THOMPSON faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years of incarceration. Upon release from prison, THOMPSON also faces a term of supervised release up to (3) three years, and/or a fine of $250,000 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, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for February 16, 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, 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 Former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Deputies Sentenced to 50 Months Imprisonment for Their Roles in Kickback and Bribery Scheme Involving Contract for Privatization of Work Release Program in St. Tammany ParishRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DAVID HANSON, age 63, from Abita Springs, Louisiana, and CLIFFORD “SKIP” KEEN, age 53, from Covington, Louisiana, were each sentenced today to 50 months imprisonment by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, after they previously pleaded guilty as charged to a one-count Bill of Information charging them with conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud and soliciting a bribe, in violation of 18 U.S.C. '' 371, 1343, 1346, and 666(a)(1)(B). The charges stemmed from their roles in the privatization of a work release program in Slidell, Louisiana, that operated between 2013 and 2016. Additionally, HANSON and KEEN were sentenced to three (3) years of supervised release, a $10,000 fine and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Restitution ordered without prejudice, with the amount to be determined at a later date.
According to court documents, HANSON and KEEN, each of whom worked as Captains with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO) discussed with then-Sheriff Rodney J. (“Jack”) Strain about becoming owners of a work release program in Slidell, Louisiana that Strain decided to privatize. As sheriff, Strain had authority, among other things, to enter into certain contracts binding STPSO, including professional service contracts, unilaterally. Because STPSO rules prohibited employees from “participating in a transaction in which he has a personal substantial economic interest of which he may be reasonably expected to know involving the governmental entity,” HANSON and KEEN would have had to resign from STPSO—thereby losing their salaries and future pension increases—if they wanted to assume ownership and control of the Slidell work release program. HANSON, KEEN, and Strain discussed ways to allow HANSON and KEEN to maintain their employment and still profit from the Slidell work release program. Ultimately, HANSON, KEEN, and Strain agreed to make KEEN’s adult son (Person 1) and HANSON’s adult daughter (Person 2) owners of the Slidell work release program.
HANSON, KEEN, and Strain agreed that they needed to find another individual actually to operate the Slidell work release program because Person 1 and Person 2 lacked sufficient education, training, experience, or funding. They decided on Person 3, to whom HANSON presented a series of conditions, including the following: Person 1 and Person 2 would each own forty-five (45) percent of the Slidell work release program and would each receive forty-five (45) percent of the profits, while Person 3 would own ten (10) percent, receive ten (10) percent of the profits, and receive a salary; and Person 3 would be responsible for the daily operations of the Slidell work release program. Person 3 was also responsible for providing the capital necessary to initiate the program. On about May 1, 2013, Person 1, Person 2, and Person 3 entered into an operating agreement that created St. Tammany Workforce Solutions, LLC, in which Person 1 and Person 2 each had a forty-five percent ownership interest and Person 3 had only a ten percent ownership interest.
On June 4, 2013, Strain entered into a cooperative endeavor agreement (“privatization agreement”) on behalf of STPSO with St. Tammany Workforce Solutions, LLC to operate the Slidell work release program. Although Person 1 and Person 2 acted effectively as passive members and did not participate substantially in the operation, oversight, or administration of the Slidell work release program, Person 3 was required to pay Person 1 and Person 2 salaries in addition to their ownership disbursements. Person 3 was also directed to pay Person 4, who was Strain’s relative and an employee at STPSO, approximately $30,000 per year for a no-show job at the Slidell work release program.
During the time St. Tammany Workforce Solutions, LLC operated the Slidell work release program, Person 1 and Person 2 received not less than $1,195,000 from St. Tammany Workforce Solutions, LLC in the form of ownership disbursements, salary payments, and occasional lump sum miscellaneous payments. Person 1 received no fewer than 145 payments totaling over $550,000, and Person 2 received no fewer than 131 payments totaling over $600,000. Person 1 and Person 2 converted the majority of the money they received from St. Tammany Workforce Solutions, LLC to cash. At the request of KEEN and HANSON, Persons 1 and 2 then transferred a significant portion of the funds back to their fathers.
Additionally, HANSON, KEEN, and Strain understood that Strain would receive financial compensation from them in exchange for bestowing the right to operate the Slidell work release program on St. Tammany Workforce Solutions, LLC. HANSON and KEEN each gave Strain a portion of the payments they received from St. Tammany Workforce Solutions LLC, through Person 1 and Person 2, in cash payoffs in amounts greater than $1,000 on a recurring basis in exchange for Strain bestowing the right to operate the Slidell work release program on St. Tammany Workforce Solutions LLC. HANSON also arranged for Strain’s son to receive a check in the amount of $4,000 because Strain gave the contract to operate the Slidell work release program to St. Tammany Workforce Solutions, LLC. HANSON, KEEN, Strain, and others attempted to conceal the scheme by, among other things, not including in the privatization agreement the fact that Strain would receive financial compensation in exchange for bestowing the right to operate the Slidell work release program on St. Tammany Workforce Solutions LLC, communicating by cellular telephone, and providing most of the money to Strain in the form of cash.
Strain was indicted in a sixteen-count indictment by a federal grand jury separately on August 29, 2019. See United States v. Strain, 19-173 “H” (E.D. La.). Trial in that matter is scheduled to begin on December 6, 2021.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and thanks the Metropolitan Crime Commission for its assistance. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, the Public Corruption Unit Chief, and Elizabeth Privitera, the Violent Crime Unit Chief, are in charge of the prosecution.
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Former Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to Mail Theft at Loranger Post OfficeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans, announced that HAROLD SAINTES, JR. age 52, of Franklin, Louisiana pled guilty as charged to a one count Bill of Information for Theft of Mail, before United States District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey today.
In papers filed with the court and signed by defendant SAINTES, he admitted to taking mis-sent parcels in the amount of $380.00 from the Loranger Post Office from September 1, 2019 through October 19, 2019.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 4, 2022. At that time, SAINTES faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment cost due after conviction.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S Postal Inspection Service, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
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Thibodaux Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Violations 0f the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DONOVAN DIRON JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 27, of Thibodaux, Louisiana was sentenced to imprisonment on September 29, 2021 in federal court before U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey for being a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence found in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(9).
According to court documents, on February 1, 2017, JOHNSON was found in possession of a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber pistol with an extended magazine.
Judge Zainey sentenced JOHNSON to 24 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Thibodaux Police Department.
The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
Barge Company Will Preserve 649 Acres of Habitat and Pay over $2 Million for Injuries to Natural Resources Resulting from its Oil Spill in the Mississippi River near New OrleansRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Jeffersonville, Indiana-based American Commercial Barge Line LLC (American Commercial) has agreed to acquire and preserve 649 acres of woodland wildlife habitat near New Orleans, Louisiana, and pay over $2 million in damages, in addition to $1.32 million previously paid for damage assessment and restoration planning costs, under the Oil Pollution Act (OPA) and the Louisiana Oil Spill Prevention and Response Act (OSPRA), to resolve federal and State claims for injuries to natural resources resulting from an oil spill from one of its barges.
The United States and Louisiana concurrently filed a civil complaint with a proposed consent decree. The complaint seeks damages and costs under OPA and OSPRA for injuries to natural resources resulting from American Commercial’s July 2008 discharge of approximately 6,734 barrels (282,828 gallons) of No. 6 fuel oil into the Mississippi River upriver of New Orleans. The complaint alleges that the spill resulted from a collision that occurred when the American Commercial tug Mel Oliver, which was pushing a barge upriver, veered directly in front of the MV Tintomara, an ocean-going tanker ship sailing downriver. The oil spill spread more than 100 miles downriver and covered over 5,000 acres of shoreline habitat. The oil spill caused significant impact and injuries to aquatic habitats within the Mississippi River and along its shoreline, as well as to birds and other wildlife. The oil spill forced the closure of the river from River Mile Marker 98 (just upriver from New Orleans) to the Southwest Pass Sea Buoy, from July 23, 2008 until July 29, 2008. American Commercial, the Coast Guard, and the State were involved in extensive response and cleanup efforts, and American Commercial has cooperated with the federal and State trustees in the assessment of injuries to natural resources.
“This settlement secures full compensation for the damaged resources, including the permanent preservation of 649 acres of critical wildlife habitat along the Mississippi River just a few miles from downtown New Orleans,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “The restoration projects funded by this settlement will restore wildlife and wetlands, and enhance recreational opportunities for Louisiana’s residents and visitors.”
“Safeguarding the environment is one of the highest priorities for the Department of Justice,” said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Ultimately, this case demonstrates the DOJ’s firm commitment, along with our federal and state partners, to utilize the full panoply of legal remedies available to protect and remediate vital water sources and the diverse ecosystems found in southeastern Louisiana.”
“Local communities and economies in Louisiana depend on the Mississippi River and the vibrant ecosystems it supports,” said Director Nicole LeBoeuf of NOAA's National Ocean Service. “We are pleased to join with industry and our co-trustees to restore vital habitats, wildlife, and outdoor recreational areas injured by the oil spill, and look forward to working with the public to implement restoration projects.”
“The wildlife resources and outdoor recreation opportunities of the lower Mississippi are critical to Louisiana’s rich natural heritage,” said Regional Director Leopoldo Miranda-Castro of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s South Atlantic-Gulf & Mississippi-Basin Regional Office. This settlement will allow for the restoration of lost resources and services and will facilitate locally-driven conservation and management that ensures equitable access to the connected local communities.”
Under the proposed consent decree, American Commercial will acquire (at an estimated purchase price of $3.25 million) and preserve 649 acres of woodland habitat, consisting of hardwood forested wetland, swamp, relic wetlands, and open waters (i.e., canals), near the Mississippi River in upper Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana (Woodlands Parcel). The Woodlands Conservancy, a local nonprofit that currently manages the property for recreational and educational use, will hold title to the property and a conservation servitude will forever limit the use of the Woodlands Parcel to passive recreation, thereby protecting and preserving the ecological benefits of the property.
American Commercial will also pay $2.07 million to compensate for natural resource damages from the spill. The federal and State trustees will jointly use the cash payment to perform projects to restore or ameliorate the impacts to aquatic life, birds, river batture, wetlands, marshes, and recreational uses along the Mississippi River. The projects, which are described in the final Damage Assessment and Restoration Plan and Environmental Assessment, Mississippi River Oil Spill, Gretna – New Orleans, Louisiana, July 23, 2008, include habitat restoration activities at the Woodlands Parcel and marsh creation in the Pass-a-Loutre State Wildlife Management Area. American Commercial has paid $1.32 million to reimburse the federal and State trustees for their past damage assessment and restoration planning costs, as required under OPA and OSPRA.
Today’s action was filed by the Department of Justice and the Louisiana Oil Spill Coordinator’s Office, Department of Public Safety & Corrections (LOSCO) on behalf of the federal and State trustees for natural resources. The designated federal trustees for the natural resources impacted by American Commercial’s oil spill are the U.S. Department of Commerce through the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration and the U.S. Department of the Interior through the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. The designated state trustees are LOSCO, Louisiana Department of Natural Resources, Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, and the Louisiana Coastal Protection and Restoration Authority. The federal and State trustees worked together to perform the injury assessment and to develop and adopt the restoration plan.
In an earlier related OPA enforcement action filed in 2011, the Department of Justice secured a settlement with American Commercial for $20,000,000 to reimburse the United States for OPA removal costs and damages.
The proposed consent decree is subject to a 30-day public comment period and court review and approval. A copy of the consent decree is available on the Department of Justice website at www.justice.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html.
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Two New Orleans Men 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 today, that on September 30, 2021, LILBEAR GEORGE, 31, and CHUKWUDI OFOMATA, 35, both of New Orleans, were each sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lance Africk to 480-month terms of imprisonment. Both men previously pleaded guilty to Using, Carrying, Brandishing, and Discharging of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(iii), 924(j)(1), and 2, which resulted in death, to wit: the December 18, 2013 murder of Hector Trochez. After their terms of imprisonment, GEORGE and OFOMATA will be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for five years. They each must pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. The Court ordered that restitution be paid to Loomis Armored in the amount of $265,000.
According to court documents, on the morning of December 18, 2013, GEORGE and OFOMATA robbed the Loomis armored vehicle as it was making a delivery of approximately $265,000 to the Chase Bank branch located at the intersection of S. Carrollton and S. Claiborne Avenues. GEORGE and OFOMATA learned about the Loomis deliveries from a known individual who was employed at that Chase branch.
As the Loomis guard, Hector Trochez, prepared to make the delivery, GEORGE and OFOMATA, both armed, exited their vehicle (a Chevy Tahoe stolen by GEORGE in preparation for the robbery), and ordered Trochez to give up the money. Trochez pulled his weapon and fired at the robbers. OFOMATA and GEORGE fired their weapons in Trochez’s direction. 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 stop the witness from following. The witness observed the Chevy Tahoe arrive at the 1700 block of Adams Street and saw the robbers exit the Chevy Tahoe and enter the awaiting Honda Accord. After the individuals entered the Honda Accord, they fled the Adams Street location, leaving the Chevy Tahoe behind.
The Chevy 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 of the Tahoe. The screwdrivers 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. Based on the recovery of GEORGE’s DNA from the screwdriver, an arrest warrant was issued.
Co-defendants Jeremy Esteves and Robert Brumfield III were found guilty by a jury at trial in November 2019. Co-defendant Jasmine Theophile, GEORGE’s girlfriend, previously pled guilty to obstructing justice. They will be sentenced on October 13, 2021.
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 C. Petrovich are prosecuting the matter.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEVIN MARTIN, age 28, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on September 30, 2021 by United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 70 months incarceration in the Bureau of Prisons, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court paperwork, MARTIN was interviewed by ATF special agents who were assisting the New Orleans Police Department in arresting MARTIN on burglary charges. During the interview, MARTIN admitted that he had firearms in his residence and during a subsequent search of that residence, police located firearms in the location MARTIN said they would be. MARTIN had multiple prior felony convictions at this point in time.
The Court sentenced MARTIN to 70 months imprisonment to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release and ordered MARTIN to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 .
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. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
Metairie Chiropractic Owner Indicted for Health Care Fraud, Aggravated Identity Theft, and Making a False StatementRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BENJAMIN TEKIPPE (TEKIPPE), age 37, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on September 30, 2021 with health care fraud, aggravated identity theft, and making a false statement.
According to the Indictment, TEKIPPE was a licensed chiropractor in Louisiana. TEKIPPE owned and operated his own practice, Metairie Chiropractic, located in Metairie, Louisiana, where he purported to provide chiropractic services to patients.
TEKIPPE knowingly participated in a scheme to defraud a health care benefit program, in connection with the delivery of and payment for health care benefits and services.
TEKIPPE submitted, and caused to be submitted, fraudulent claims to health care benefit programs that falsely represented that certain health care services were provided to patients, when TEKIPPE knew that those services were not actually provided.
On various dates in 2019, TEKIPPE submitted, or caused to be submitted, claims for payment which were not provided. In addition, TEKIPPE knowingly used or caused to be used, without lawful authority, a means of identification of another person, specifically insurance members’ unique member identification numbers, to bill for services which were not provided.
On or about July 22, 2020, TEKIPPE did knowingly and willfully make a materially false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement to Special Agents of the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
If convicted of health care fraud, TEKIPPE faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and up to three years of supervised release. If convicted of aggravated identity theft, TEKIPPE faces a possible sentence of 2 years of imprisonment to be run consecutively to any other sentence and up to one year of supervised release, . If convicted of making a false statement, TEKIPPE faces a possible maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and up to three years of supervised release. For each offense, TEKIPPE faces up to a $250,000 fine and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and The Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General.
An indictment is merely a charge and the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Semi-Automatic Rifle After Being Indicted for State Felony ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JOHNNY WOODEN, age 21, from Orleans Parish, pled guilty on September 28, 2021 to a one-count indictment for possession of a firearm while under indictment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(n). WOODEN was initially indicted by a Federal Grand Jury on August 7, 2020.
On July 29, 2020, WOODEN possessed a semi-automatic rifle while he was under indictment for felony charges in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court, which prohibited him from possessing any firearms.
At sentencing, WOODEN faces up to a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(a)(1)(D).
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.
The case was investigated by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Bücher of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Jefferson Parish Man Charged with 3 Bank RobberiesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that ZACHARY VERDIN, age 29, of Marrero, Louisiana, was charged with three counts of Bank Robbery in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).
According to Count One of the bill of information, on or about July 19, 2021, VERDIN robbed the Capital One Bank located at 1867 Barataria Boulevard in Marrero, Louisiana. He obtained approximately $521 in the robbery. According to Count Two of the bill of information, on or about July 26, 2021, VERDIN robbed the Chase Bank located at 1425 North Broad Street in New Orleans, Louisiana. He obtained approximately $1,000 in that robbery. According to Count Three of the bill of information, on or about August 2, 2021, VERDIN robbed the Regions Bank located at 313 Westbank Expressway in Gretna, Louisiana. He obtained approximately $12,540 in that robbery.
If convicted on any of the charged offenses, VERDIN faces a maximum of twenty years in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release following his release from prison. VERDIN also faces a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, as to each count.
United States 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.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crime Task Force and officers with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and New Orleans Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri is handling the prosecution.
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Houston Man Pleads Guilty to Heroin Trafficking ChargeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that, on September 30, 2021, WILSON ROMERO, age 55, of Katy, Texas, pled to one count of possession with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
According to court documents, during a traffic stop on May 6, 2019, ROMERO was found with 994 grams of heroin hidden in a vacuum cleaner in the trunk of his vehicle. ROMERO subsequently admitted that he had paid $32,000 for the heroin and was trafficking it from Houston to New Orleans.
ROMERO faces a sentence of between 5 years and 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe set sentencing for January 6, 2022.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Louisiana State Police in investigating this case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Jonathan L. Shih.
Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane Evans announced today that RAUL CABRERA-PERDOMO age 46, was charged on September 30, 2021 in a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the indictment, RAUL CABRERA-PERDOMO (“CABRERA”), reentered the United States after he was previously deported on May 15, 2009. If convicted, CABRERA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney 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 United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Two Men for Federal Weapons ViolationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on Thursday, September 30, 2021, that TRON HUGHES, age 40, and DEAMONTE BROWN, age 21, residents of New Orleans, LA, were both charged in a one-count indictment with being felons in possession of several firearms.
In Count 1 of the indictment, both HUGHES and BROWN are charged with possessing several firearms on June 2, 2020, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2), and 2. If convicted, HUGHES and BROWN face a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000, a period of up to 3 years supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice's violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit for the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Chief Engineer and Greek Ship Owner and Operator Charged with Concealing Deliberate Pollution and Failing to Report a Hazardous ConditionRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Empire Bulkers Ltd., Joanna Maritime Limited and Chief Engineer Warlito Tan were indicted yesterday in New Orleans for violations of environmental and safety laws related to the Motor Vessel Joanna, a Marshall Islands registered Bulk Carrier.
The four-count grand jury indictment alleges that the companies and Tan tampered with required oil pollution prevention equipment and falsified the ship’s Oil Record Book, an official ship log regularly inspected by the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard found that the ship’s Oily Water Separator had been bypassed by inserting a piece of metal into the Oil Content Meter so that it would only detect clean water instead of what was actually being discharged overboard. According to the indictment, Tan and the shipping companies falsified the log and sought to obstruct the Coast Guard’s inspection.
The defendants also were charged with violating the Ports and Waterways Safety Act by failing to immediately report a hazardous situation that affected the safety of the ship and threatened U.S. ports and waters. During the inspection on March 11, 2021, the Coast Guard discovered an active fuel oil leak in the ship’s purifier room that resulted from disabling the fuel oil heater pressure relief valves, an essential safety feature designed to prevent catastrophic fires and explosions.
The criminal prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Senior Litigation Counsel Richard A. Udell of the Environment and Natural Resources Division's Environmental Crimes Section, with valuable assistance provided by District 8 of the U.S. Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Criminal Investigations Division.
Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and U.S. Attorney Duane Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana made the announcement.
An indictment contains probable cause allegations made by a grand jury and must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
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Chief Engineer and Greek Ship Owner and Operator Charged with Concealing Deliberate Pollution and Failing to Report a Hazardous ConditionRead the Press Release
Empire Bulkers Ltd., Joanna Maritime Limited and Chief Engineer Warlito Tan were indicted yesterday in New Orleans for violations of environmental and safety laws related to the Motor Vessel Joanna, a Marshall Islands registered Bulk Carrier.
The four-count grand jury indictment alleges that the companies and Tan tampered with required oil pollution prevention equipment and falsified the ship’s Oil Record Book, an official ship log regularly inspected by the Coast Guard. The Coast Guard found that the ship’s Oily Water Separator had been bypassed by inserting a piece of metal into the Oil Content Meter so that it would only detect clean water instead of what was actually being discharged overboard. According to the indictment, Tan and the shipping companies falsified the log and sought to obstruct the Coast Guard’s inspection.
The defendants also were charged with violating the Ports and Waterways Safety Act by failing to immediately report a hazardous situation that affected the safety of the ship and threatened U.S. ports and waters. During the inspection on March 11, 2021, the Coast Guard discovered an active fuel oil leak in the ship’s purifier room that resulted from disabling the fuel oil heater pressure relief valves, an essential safety feature designed to prevent catastrophic fires and explosions.
The criminal prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Senior Litigation Counsel Richard A. Udell of the Environment and Natural Resources Division's Environmental Crimes Section, with valuable assistance provided by District 8 of the U.S. Coast Guard and the Coast Guard Criminal Investigations Division.
Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and U.S. Attorney Duane Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana made the announcement.
An indictment contains probable cause allegations made by a grand jury and must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
Atlanta Man Sentenced to Jail for Bribing U.S. Marine Corps Official in Exchange for $2,000,000 in Transportation ContractsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on Thursday, September 23, 2021, the Honorable Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced DARREL FITZPATRICK, aged 31, to 60 months in the Bureau of Prisons in what the Judge called a “massive bribery and fraud scheme” involving the United States Marine Corps.
The defendant had previously pleaded guilty on January 21, 2021 to Conspiracy to Commit Bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 201(b)(1). The Court also set a restitution hearing on December 16, 2021, to determine how much money the defendant owes the government as a result of the scheme. The defendant must also serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the Factual Basis, in 2019 FITZPATRICK was a senior account manager at Company A, a bus brokerage company that provided transportation to the United States Marine Corps Reserves. That same year, FITZPATRICK started a competing transportation brokerage company called National Charter Express.
In 2019, FITZPATRICK agreed to pay kickbacks to Erik Martin, a civilian employee of the United States Marine Corps Reserves, in exchange for Martin directing business to Company A, and then later, National Charter Express. The conspiracy resulted in at least $2,000,000 in transportation contracts being corruptly awarded to companies associated with FITZPATRICK. In exchange, FITZPATRICK wired and attempted to wire Martin over $250,000 in bribes.
U. S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), and the United States Secret Service for their investigation in this case.
“Mr. Fitzpatrick deserves to be held fully accountable for his criminal actions to bribe a Marine Corps employee to direct contracts to his transportation company,” said Special Agent in Charge Thomas Cannizzo of the NCIS Southeast Field Office. “This sentencing should serve as a warning that those who seek to defraud the Department of the Navy will always be exposed and investigated to the fullest extent. NCIS and our partners remain committed to rooting out bribery and corruption that damages the integrity of the Department of the Navy’s procurement process, wastes American taxpayer money, and ultimately jeopardizes the safety of our nation’s warfighters.”
“I’d like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Naval Criminal Investigative Service for partnering on this important investigation,” stated Special Agent in Charge Cynthia A. Bruce of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), the investigative arm of the Department of Defense, Office of Inspector General. “I am pleased that we were able to secure a significant forfeiture to take back ill-gotten gains from the defendants and send a clear message that ultimately crime does not pay."
The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Andre Lagarde and Myles Ranier.
Two More Mexican Nationals Are Sentenced After Pleading Guilty to International Timeshare Telemarketing ScamRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – CLAUDUA ANTILLON ZAHUITA, age 38, and SERGIO LEON KURI, age 40, both residents and citizens of Mexico, were sentenced to prison on September 29, 2021 by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo of the Eastern District of Louisiana after they each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. ANTILLON ZAHUITA received 48 months, while LEON KURI received 60 months.
As detailed in the original indictment and superseding bill of information, the defendants, from at least January 1, 2016, to the present, conspired together and with others to commit wire fraud in connection with a telemarketing scheme that targeted and victimized persons in the United States, Canada and South America. As part of the elaborate scheme, the conspirators made unsolicited phone calls to owners of resort timeshare properties to induce them into paying fees associated with the bogus sale of their property. The defendants misrepresented the existence of a buyer for their timeshare and solicited money from the victims to facilitate the sale. They solicited the timeshare owners to enter into agreements to sell their timeshares and pay for alleged “closing costs” with electronic wire transfers from banking institutions within the United States to Mexican banks. There were no interested buyers, the closings did not occur, and the timeshares were not resold. Instead, the conspirators simply pocketed the advanced fees. Of the U.S. victims, 40 were age 60 and older and the total estimated loss is at least $20,000,000.
The defendants, who are all based in Mexico, operated under the business names Planet Travel and Newport International Investments, and at other times used the following business names: Advance Travel INC, All American Real Estate, American International Investment Group, Bear Claw Travel, Best Investment Services, Champion Properties, Closing Source LLC, Equity Closing Services Group, Global Offshore Services, NSC Holding, Peach Title, Sandia Title, Travel and Acquisitions, Travel Innovations, Travel Plus Acquisitions, Travel Right, and World Travelers, Inc. All these domain websites have been seized by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice.
In addition to imprisonment, ANTILLON ZAHUITA and LEON KURI were given three (3) years of supervised release, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, and a restitution hearing is to be set at a later date. Each defendant was also ordered to be immediately deported upon the expiration of their terms of imprisonment.
This case is the product of an extensive and ongoing investigation by special agents of Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Edward J. Rivera and Paige O’Hale are prosecuting the case.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced NICK HELMSTETTER, age 29, of New Orleans, Louisiana, on September 29, 2021 to 46 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court records, HELMSTETTER 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. HELMSTETTER admitted to being captured on a Title III wire intercept.
District Judge Vance sentenced HELMSTETTER to the 46 months imprisonment to be followed by four years of supervised release. Judge Vance also ordered that HELMSTETTER pay a $100 mandatory 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.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MICHAEL PAUL PERRILLOUX, age 43, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to Count Four of a four-count Indictment charging him with distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), including prepubescent children, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 2252(a)(2).
According to court documents, in about November 2020, Special Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) executed a search warrant at PERRILLOUX’s New Orleans-area residence after receiving a tip that PERRILLOUX had uploaded images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children to an online, cloud-based file storage account. Agents seized numerous electronic devices belonging to PERRILLOUX. A subsequent review of the devices revealed that between at least 2017 and 2020, PERRILLOUX uploaded images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children via a computer and the internet to one or more online, cloud-based file storage accounts under his control. PERRILLOUX obtained, uploaded, and catalogued thousands of digital files (i.e., images and videos) depicting the sexual exploitation of children. The Government would further establish through the introduction of forensic digital evidence that PERRILLOUX sometimes received payments in exchange for distributing depictions of his collection of CSAM by transmitting electronically a link to one of more of his online file storage accounts. Specifically, on or about September 10, 2018, PERRILLOUX received approximately $200 from Person 1 in exchange for PERRILLOUX providing Person 1 a link to an online file storage account under PERRILLOUX’s control that contained images and videos depicting CSAM.
Additionally, a review of PERRILLOUX’s electronic devices revealed that PERRILLOUX engaged in sexually suggestive online conversations with individuals, including minors, while pretending to be either a female or a younger male. During the conversations, PERRILLOUX requested that the minors either engage in sexually explicit conduct or take and send him sexually explicit pictures and videos.
PERRILLOUX faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years and a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years. PERRILLOUX also faces a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. PERRILLOUX can be required to register as a sex offender and may also be ordered to pay restitution to the victims of his crime. Sentencing has been scheduled before Judge Barbier for January 6, 2022.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Arsonist Sentenced to 168 Months ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ARCHIE MORRIS, age 43, of New Orleans, was sentenced on September 28, 2021 for five counts of arson, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, 844(i).
According to court documents, ARCHIE MORRIS used gasoline and Molotov cocktails to start five fires at an occupied apartment in New Orleans, Louisiana. On or about April 2, 2018, at two different times of the day, ARCHIE MORRIS started fires at this apartment. Then on or about April 7, 2018, ARCHIE MORRIS set fire to this residence at three different times of the day.
U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced MORRIS to serve 168 months in prison, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release. Judge Zainey also imposed a $500 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Orleans Fire Department, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria M. Carboni.
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