Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Plaquemines Parish Man Indicted for Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ERIC METZ, age 38, a resident of Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, was charged June 24, 2021 in a three-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), 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 with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(e), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
The defendant had his initial court appearance on June 25, 2021, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen Wells Roby of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. If convicted of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, METZ faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. For possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, METZ faces a minimum of five years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, up to five years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. If convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm, METZ faces a minimum of fifteen (15) years imprisonment up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 5 years supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ben Myers.
New Orleans Woman Sentenced to Theft of More Than $280,000 in Federal Student AidRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, announced that ASHLY HOWARD (“HOWARD”), age 34, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 24, 2021 to five (5) years probation in federal court before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641 and Identity Theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028(a)(7).
According to court documents, beginning in 2018 and continuing through 2019, HOWARD fraudulently submitted Free Applications for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and/or Master Promissory Notes (MPN) in individual’s names in an effort to obtain federal financial aid. HOWARD facilitated the submission of thirty (30) applications for admission to Nunez Community College in Chalmette, Louisiana in these individuals’ names. HOWARD facilitated the creation of debit cards in these individuals’ names so that the student loan proceeds could be disbursed. HOWARD accepted the grants and student loans and used the federal financial aid funds under the names of these individuals. Some of the financial aid were used with the knowledge and consent of these individuals and some were used without. Accordingly, HOWARD fraudulently received approximately $280,000 in Department of Education funds to which she was not entitled.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General. The prosecution of this case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
Montz, La Drug Dealer Pleads Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA. – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that a Montz, La. man pleaded guilty on June 15, 2021 to conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, USC Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A), and 846, distribution of fifty grams of methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, USC 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A), and being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, USC Section 922(g).
According to court documents, JABARIOUS EUGENE, 40 years old, pled guilty to all three counts of a federal indictment that was pending against him. In Count 1 EUGENE was charged with conspiring to distribute over five hundred grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846. In Count 2, EUGENE was charged with distributing fifty grams of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1). In Count 3, EUGENE was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
EUGENE is scheduled to be sentenced on September 22, 2021. As to both Counts 1 and 2, EUGENE faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and maximum penalty of life in prison, supervised release for a period of not less than 5 years to life, a fine of not more than $10,000,000.00 and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. As to Count 3, EUGENE faces up to 10 years in prison, a period of supervised release not to exceed 3 years, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 and a mandatory $100 special assessment. Sentencing is set for September 22, 2021 before U.S. District Court Judge Susie Morgan.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. is prosecuting the case.
Man Sentenced for Federal Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA. – A Cuban National was sentenced on June 16, 2021 to five years in prison for conspiring to sell a kilogram of cocaine to a federal confidential informant, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
According to court documents, PABLO PEDRO MORALES-CURBELO, age 63, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was previously indicted on August 29, 2019 by a Federal Grand Jury in a two count indictment, charging him in Count 1 with conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. In Count 2 MORALES-CURBELO was charged with attempting to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. On December 4, 2019, MORALES-CURBELO pled guilty to Count 1 of the indictment, a violation of 21 U.S.C. 846, and he faced a minimum statutory sentence of five years to a maximum sentence of forty years in prison. MORALES-CURBELO’s sentencing was postponed numerous times because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
These charges stemmed from an investigation by Special Agents of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office into the illegal activities of MORALES-CURBELO.
At sentencing, Federal District Court Judge Lance Africk ordered that the five-year mandatory minimum sentence be served consecutively to another five-year sentence that MORALES-CURBELO was serving for a supervised release revocation, which also stemmed from a prior federal drug conviction. In total, he was sentenced to serve 10 years in federal prison, four years of supervised release following imprisonment, and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. prosecuted the case.
Louisiana Man Pleads Guilty to Dog FightingRead the Press Release
A Louisiana man pleaded guilty yesterday to possession of an animal for use in an animal fighting venture.
According to court documents, beginning as early as June 22, 2017, Clay Turner, 61, of Loranger, possessed and trained dogs for the purpose of having them participate in animal fighting ventures. On telephone calls obtained via court-authorized wiretaps, Turner and others discussed gambling on dog fights, arranging and participating in dog fights, sponsoring and exhibiting dogs in dog fights, training and housing dogs for the purposes of dog fighting, commerce in and transport of fighting dogs and the promotion of dog fights. Turner also stated he would give the dogs “dex,” referring to Dexamethasone—a substance that causes bowel evacuation—to achieve proper weight for the dog fights.
On or about Oct. 24, 2017, a federal law enforcement team consisting of agents from the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA), the FBI, and the U.S. Marshals Service and other agencies, executed a search warrant on Turner’s residence in Loranger. During the search, 33 dogs were found on the property, many of which had injuries, scarring, and/or wounding consistent with dog fighting activities. Law enforcement also recovered a large collection of dog fighting paraphernalia.
“Our system of justice does not tolerate the torment and death of animals in this blood sport for personal entertainment and glorification or financial gain,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Jean E. Williams of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Beyond the harm imposed on these tormented dogs, animal shelters, nonprofit organizations, and the taxpayers pay the price for caring for the dogs once they are no longer useful to the dog fighters. We will aggressively pursue and prosecute individuals who engage in animal fighting of any kind.”
Turner pleaded guilty to possession of an animal for an animal fighting venture. Turner is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 28 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
Trial Attorneys Matthew D. Evans and Christopher Hale of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Shih of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.
Husband and Wife Sentenced to 4 Years for Staged Automobile Accident Resulting in $4.7 Million SettlementRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ANTHONY ROBINSON (“A. ROBINSON”), age 67, and AUDREY HARRIS (“HARRIS”), age 54, of New Orleans, were sentenced today for participating in a scheme to defraud a trucking company and their insurer by staging an automobile accident with a tractor-trailer on October 13, 2015. U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced A. ROBINSON and HARRIS each to 48 months in prison.
According to documents filed in Federal Court, A. ROBINSON admitted to paying Damien Labeaud (“Labeaud”) $2,000.00 in cash to participate in a staged accident on October 13, 2015. A. ROBINSON arranged for his wife, HARRIS, his daughter, Keishira Robinson (“K. Robinson”), and his friend and neighbor, Jerry Schaffer (“Schaffer”), to go for a ride in A. ROBINSON’s vehicle. Prior to the accident, A. ROBINSON pulled over, exited his vehicle, and allowed Roderick Hickman (“Hickman”) to take the driver’s seat and intentionally collide with a tractor-trailer in the area of Alvar Street and France Road in New Orleans. Hickman, who previously tendered a guilty plea, acted as the “slammer” in this staged accident. After causing the collision, Hickman exited the vehicle and was picked up from the accident site by Labeaud, who acted as the “spotter” and who also previously pled guilty to his role in the larger scheme. A. ROBINSON, who had been in Labeaud’s vehicle during the intentional collision, then got behind the wheel of his own vehicle to make it appear that he had been driving at the time of the staged accident.
After the accident, A. ROBINSON, HARRIS, K. Robinson, and Schaffer were referred to an attorney who paid Labeaud and Hickman to stage accidents. Attorneys then referred A. ROBINSON and HARRIS to medical providers for treatment, and A. ROBINSON and HARRIS both underwent extensive medical treatment, including chiropractor treatment, injections, and eventually both neck and back surgeries. A. ROBINSON and HARRIS understood that agreeing to more medical treatment would increase the value of their lawsuit. Attorneys filed fraudulent civil lawsuits on behalf of A. ROBINSON, HARRIS, Schaffer, and K. Robinson, and they all provided false testimony in depositions taken in conjunction with the lawsuit.
As a result of the lawsuit, the victim trucking and insurance company paid out a total of approximately $4.7 million for the fraudulent claims associated with this staged accident. Specifically, the victim trucking company and its excess insurer paid out approximately $1,500,000.00 for A. ROBINSON’s claim. A. ROBINSON received approximately $534,983.33 of that total amount, in addition to approximately $35,700.00 in loans or advances on his settlement from the law firms representing him. The trucking company’s insurer paid out approximately $2,100,000.00 for HARRIS’s claim. HARRIS received approximately $675,000.00 of that total amount, in addition to approximately $14,600.00 in loans or advances on her settlement from the law firm representing her.
Judge Lemelle sentenced the defendants for conspiracy to commit mail fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, A. ROBINSON was sentenced to 48 months and HARRIS was sentenced to 48 months. Judge Lemelle also sentenced A. ROBINSON and HARRIS each to three years of supervised release. Additionally, both ROBINSON and HARRIS must pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Regarding restitution, Judge Lemelle ordered that A. ROBINSON, HARRIS and their co-conspirators be held jointly and severally liable for restitution in the total amount of $5,073,358.25. The restitution amount includes the total settlement paid by the victim trucking company and their excess insurer, as well as attorneys’ fees incurred by the trucking company in the course of defending against the fraudulent civil lawsuit stemming from the staged accident. Additionally, Judge Lemelle entered a preliminary order of forfeiture ordering the unlawfully-obtained proceeds by A. ROBINSON and HARRIS from the fraud scheme to be forfeited to the Government.
Judge Lemelle previously sentenced Schaffer to 30 months in prison for his role in this accident and Keishira Robinson has previously pled guilty before Judge Lemelle for her role in this accident.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work 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 Shirin Hakimzadeh; Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria M. Carboni; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera. Assistant U.S Attorney Alexandra Giavotella and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andre J. Lagarde handled the forfeiture aspects of the case.
Belle Chasse Man Pleads Guilty to Bank FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSHUA HOCKLESS, age 29, a resident of Belle Chasse, pled guilty to one count of bank fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. HOCKLESS faces maximum penalties of up to 30 years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Sentencing is currently set for November 17, 2021 before the Honorable Sarah S. Vance.
According to court records, HOCKLESS was an Army Sergeant in the Headquarters Company, 377th Theater Sustainment Command, Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base in Belle Chasse. HOCKLESS had a bank account at the United Services Automobile Association Federal Savings Bank (USAA) and learned that USAA allowed service members to withdraw deposits before the funds formally cleared the issuing bank. Knowing this, HOCKLESS opened bank accounts at third-party banks with minimal funding, made online wire transfers from those banks to USAA, and withdrew the deposits from USAA before it detected that there were insufficient funds in the issuing bank account. HOCKLESS obtained approximately $36,119.47 as a result of these fraudulent transfers between his accounts. HOCKLESS then asked other enlisted personnel to open USAA and third-party bank accounts, and give him their online banking passwords. HOCKLESS used these passwords to make similar fraudulent transfers to their USAA accounts and instructed them when to withdraw the cash to split with HOCKLESS. These transfers resulted in approximately $102,739.74 being fraudulently withdrawn from USAA – approximately half of which ($51,369.57) was received by HOCKLESS.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Army Criminal Investigations Command. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Chief of the General Crimes Unit.
Tangipahoa Parish Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JAMES WATTS, age 49, a resident of Amite, Louisiana, was charged June 11, 2021 in a one-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with possession with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
The defendant had his initial court appearance on June 23, 2021, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Karen Wells Roby of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. If convicted, WATTS faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a mandatory $100 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 and Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ben Myers.
New Orleans Woman Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – The Honorable Sarah S. Vance sentenced EBONY GRAY, age 27, of Kenner, Louisiana, to two years of probation on June 23, 2021 for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court records, GRAY admitted being caught on federally authorized wire taps discussing the prices for various quantities of heroin, as well as potential customers. GRAY and a co-defendant also discussed how much cut or adulterant the heroin could take.
District Judge Vance sentenced GRAY to two years of probation and 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 Conspiracy to Distribute Drugs and Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that NATHAN BALLANSAW III, age 69, of New Orleans, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, cocaine base and heroin, and firearms-related charges.
Specifically, on June 24, 2021, BALLANSAW pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, cocaine base, and heroin in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. BALLANSAW also pled guilty to one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
On the drug conspiracy, BALLANSAW 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 mandatory $100 special assessment. On the firearm charge, BALLANSAW faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years of imprisonment, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 5 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
According to court documents, BALLANSAW conspired to sell cocaine, cocaine base and heroin between September 12, 2015 and May 4, 2017. In furtherance of that drug-trafficking conspiracy, he possessed a Smith and Wesson Model 638-2 .38 caliber revolver on March 28, 2017.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera and Jonathan L. Shih are in charge of the prosecution.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
Marrero Man Sentenced to 130 Months Imprisonment After Second Conviction for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BRADLEY EDWARD CORLEY, age 46, a resident of Marrero, Louisiana, was sentenced to 130 months imprisonment by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey after previously pleading guilty to Count Two of a two-count Indictment charging him with possession of images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children, including children as young as approximately four (4) years old, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 2252(a)(4)(B). Additionally, Judge Zainey imposed on CORLEY supervised release for the remainder of his life and a $100 special assessment fee. Judge Zainey also scheduled a restitution hearing in the matter on August 16, 2021. In 2006, CORLEY was convicted in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana of possession of child pornography.
According to court documents, in about September 2019, Special Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) received a tip that an individual, subsequently determined to be CORLEY, had uploaded approximately seven (7) images depicting the sexual exploitation of children to a digital application and distribution platform designed for video gaming communities. Agents executed a search warrant at CORLEY’s residence in March 2020 and seized several electronic devices that contained files depicting the sexual victimization of children. A forensic examination of several of the devices confirmed that CORLEY had used them to search for, download, and save at least 60,000 images and 1,5000 videos depicting the sexual victimization of children, including by visiting a web forum on June 16, 2019, August 4, 2019, and March 9, 2020. The filed depicted children as young as approximately four (4) years old engaging in sexually explicit conduct, including numerous images and videos that portrayed “sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence.”
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, with support from the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Men Plead Guilty to Their Roles in a Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on June 21, 2021, that TAURUS RUSSELL, a/k/a “Scrappy,” age 44, a resident of New Orleans, plead guilty to a three-count Superseding Bill of Information. In Count 1, RUSSELL is charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine hydrochloride in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B), and 846. In Counts 2 and 3, RUSSELL is charged with use of communication facilities to further a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
According to court documents, RUSSELL conspired with other members of a drug trafficking organization to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base. Additionally, RUSSELL used a communication facility, the telephone, to facilitate the distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base.
United States District Court Judge Susie Morgan will sentence RUSSELL on October 13, 2021. For Count 1, RUSSELL faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years, with a possible maximum sentence of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of at least 4 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For Counts 2 and 3, RUSSELL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 4 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to 1 year, 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.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Metairie Man Pleads Guilty to a Federal Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on June 15, 2021, that COREY DUNN, age 48, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty to a one count Superseding Bill of Information. In Count 1, DUNN is charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine hydrochloride, and 28 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B), and 846.
According to court documents, DUNN conspired with other members of a drug trafficking organization to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base beginning in October 2018 until August 2019.
United States District Court Judge Susie Morgan will sentence DUNN on September 30, 2021. DUNN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years. The maximum sentence the Court may impose is a term of imprisonment of 40 years. DUNN also faces the imposition of a fine up to $5,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of at least 4 years, 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
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit.
Five More Defendants Plead Guilty in Coast Guard Test-Fixing SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS –U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced additional guilty pleas related to a test score-fixing scheme at a United States Coast Guard exam center, bringing the total number of defendants convicted in this matter to 26.
On June 10, 2021, maritime industry worker ALONZO WILLAIMS pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States. In a factual basis filed into the record, WILLIAMS admitted that he acted as an intermediary in the scheme to bribe a Coast Guard employee to enter false scores for another mariner. WILLIAMS also acknowledged that he had his own exam scores fixed.
Additionally, on June 24, 2021, ALEXIA LOVETT, FREDRICK NETTLES, STINSON PAYNE, and SHUNMANIQUE WILLIS each admitted to participating in the scheme by using false exam scores to obtain unearned licenses.
The exams at issue tested mariners’ knowledge and training to safely operate under the authority of merchant mariner licenses, which were legally required to work various positions on vessels. As alleged in the indictment, Coast Guard credentialing specialist DOROTHY SMITH entered the false scores in this scheme. The indictment alleges that SMITH accepted bribes and used a network of intermediaries. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment’s allegations against SMITH are merely charges and her guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Honorable Barry W. Ashe presided over the guilty pleas and set sentencing dates of September and October 2021. The maximum penalty for each defendant is five years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
This case is being investigated by the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon is in charge of the prosecution.
Slidell Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Alter Postal Money OrdersRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHASITY DOTEY a/k/a “CHASITY PINES”, age 27, of Slidell, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on June 24, 2021 to one count of conspiracy to alter U.S. Postal Money Orders before United States District Court Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon today.
According to court records, DOTEY cashed two altered U.S. Postal Money Orders in the amounts of $530.00 each at a U.S. Post Office located in Slidell, Louisiana. The two Postal Money Orders had been purchased in California for minimal value and then altered to reflect a higher amount by unknown co-conspirators.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 21, 2021. At that time, DOTEY faces up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment due after conviction.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
Laplace Man Pleads Guilty to Being Felon in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DWAYNE BROWN, age 34, a resident of Laplace, Louisiana, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Sentencing is currently scheduled for October 14, 2021 before the Honorable Barry W. Ashe.
According to court documents, on or about October 1, 2019, BROWN attempted to go through security at Louis Armstrong 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.
At sentencing, BROWN faces maximum penalties of 10 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
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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Hattiesburg Woman Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud Related to Employee TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHRISTY BARTHOLOMEW, age 39, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, pleaded guilty on June 23, 2021 to a two-count Bill of Information for wire fraud before United States District Court Judge Lance M. Africk today.
According to court records, BARTHOLOMEW was employed as a financial controller for a business located in Slidell, Louisiana, and later worked as an office manager for a company located in Kenner, Louisiana. From 2016 to October of 2019, she embezzled approximately $357,000 from her Slidell employer by several schemes, including unauthorized use of a company credit card. She later did the same thing with her Kenner employer, embezzling approximately $300,000 from November 2019 to February 2020.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 27, 2021. At that time, BARTHOLOMEW faces up to twenty years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment due after conviction.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, along with assistance from the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
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Two More Plead 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 that JAMES “CURTIS” WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 66 of Gibson, Louisiana, and RYAN WHEATEN (“WHEATEN”), age 53, of Lafayette, Louisiana, entered a plea of guilty on June 23, 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 before United States District Court Judge Lance M. Africk.
According to today’s guilty plea, on March 27, 2017, WILLIAMS conspired with co-defendants-passengers Tanya Givens (“Givens”), John Diggs (“J. Diggs”), and Lois Russell (“Russell”) to stage an accident with a tractor-trailer at the intersection of Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road. Damien Labeaud (“Labeaud”) and Roderick Hickman (“Hickman”), who have pleaded guilty to staging other accidents, also participated in this accident. Hickman, while driving Russell’s car, intentionally struck the 18-wheeler and then fled the scene with Labeaud. Russell advised NOPD that she was the driver and she, along with WILLIAMS, Givens and J. Diggs, made claims for personal injuries. In total, the victim trucking and insurance companies paid out approximately $272,500.00 for these fraudulent claims. Today, WILLIAMS joins Hickman, Russell, Givens and J. Diggs in pleading guilty to this staged accident.
Also according to today’s guilty plea, on May 17, 2017, WHEATEN, along with participants Labeaud, Mario Solomon (“Solomon”), Henry Randle (“Randle”), and Dakota Diggs (“D. Diggs”), participated in a staged automobile accident in the vicinity of U.S. Highway 90 East and Calliope Street in New Orleans. Labeaud and Solomon fled the scene. Randle falsely reported to the NOPD that he had been driving and that the tractor-trailer had struck his vehicle. Shortly thereafter, Labeaud and Solomon went on to stage a second accident in the vicinity of Louisa Street and Chickasaw Street with Bernell Gale (“Gale”), Troy Smith (“Smith”), Marvel Francois (“Francois”), and another passenger. Labeaud, Solomon, Wheaten, Gale, Smith, and Francois were also charged. Labeaud, Solomon, Gale, Smith, and Francois already pled guilty. After the staged accident, Wheaten, Randle, and D. Diggs made claims for personal injuries. The victim trucking and insurance companies paid out approximately $10,000.00 for these fraudulent claims.
WILLIAMS and WHEATEN face a maximum sentence of five (5) years. Upon release from prison, WILLIAMS and WHEATEN also face 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 each defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for October 27, 2021.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera, Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni, Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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New Orleans Man Selling Bitcoin Charged with Operating Unlicensed Money Transmitting BusinessRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MICHAEL YUSKO, III, age 46, a resident of New Orleans, was charged yesterday in a bill of information with operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1960.
Under federal law, any business that engages in “the acceptance of currency, funds, or other value that substitutes for currency from one person and the transmission of currency, funds, or other value that substitutes for currency to another location or person by any means” is deemed to be a money transmitting business. Such businesses include those that trade fiat currency, such as U.S. dollars, for cryptocurrency, such as Bitcoin, Litecoin, and Ethereum. These companies must register with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (“FinCEN”) as money transmitting businesses.
According to court documents, YUSKO was the owner and manager of Nervous Light Capital LLC. He used Nervous Light Capital, along with the bank accounts of four other companies, to sell Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies to customers. YUSKO did not register any of these companies with FinCEN as money transmitting businesses, however. If convicted, YUSKO may receive a maximum of five years in prison, a maximum $250,000.00 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment.
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 FBI New Orleans Field Office and the U.S. Secret Service New Orleans Field Office. Assistant United States Attorney Matthew R. Payne is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Distributing Heroin Which Resulted in the Death of BuyerRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JARON BIAS, age 29, of New Orleans, was sentenced on June 16, 2021 after pleading guilty to Count 1 of a Superseding Bill of Information charging him in a heroin conspiracy. Members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating BIAS in August 2017, when they learned from a confidential source that BIAS was distributing heroin in the Black Pearl neighborhood in Orleans Parish as well as in Jefferson Parish.
Following BIAS’s August 23, 2017 arrest for distribution of heroin, FBI agents recovered multiple cellular telephones belonging to BIAS. Agents applied for search warrants on the cellular devices and located numerous text communications dating back to November 2015 proving that BIAS was selling heroin in the Greater New Orleans area.
The FBI conducted interviews with many of BIAS’s customers who were listed in his cellular telephones. During the interview process, agents learned that on June 29, 2015, BIAS distributed heroin to an individual who overdosed as a result of the heroin he purchased from BIAS. According to witnesses who were with the deceased prior to his death, the deceased contacted BIAS and negotiated the sale of $100.00 worth of heroin. After meeting and purchasing heroin from BIAS at Carver Park in New Orleans, the deceased and the witness injected the heroin. The deceased became unresponsive and died at the scene. The Jefferson Parish Coroner’s Office declared that the deceased died as a result of a heroin overdose.
United States District Court Judge Martin L.C. Feldman sentenced BIAS to a term of imprisonment of 78 months in the Bureau of Prisons, a period of supervised release of 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced After Being Convicted by A Federal Trial Jury for Being A Felon in Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on June 22, 2021, the Honorable Greg A. Guidry sentenced DAMIEN JUSTIN, age 43, to 97 months imprisonment for being a prohibited person in possession of two (2) firearms. Additionally, the Court ordered that JUSTIN to serve 3 years of supervised release and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment cost. No fines were imposed in this matter.
According to the evidence presented at trial, on January 10, 2019, the Violent Crime Task Force for the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant at 11416 North Easterlyn Circle, New Orleans, Louisiana. Inside this residence, members of the Task Force located a loaded Glock Model 27, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol and a loaded Smith & Wesson Model Lady Smith, .38 caliber revolver in a nightstand next to JUSTIN’s bed. JUSTIN later admitted that he used the Glock and the Smith & Wesson revolver in the nightstand for his protection. At the conclusion of a two-day trial, the jury found JUSTIN guilty of the sole count of the Superseding Indictment.
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that, the Honorable Greg A. Guidry sentenced DAMIEN JUSTIN, age 43, to 97 months imprisonment for being a prohibited person in possession of two (2) firearms. Additionally, the Court ordered that JUSTIN to serve 3 years of supervised release and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment cost. No fines were imposed in this matter.
According to the evidence presented at trial, on January 10, 2019, the Violent Crime Task Force for the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant at 11416 North Easterlyn Circle, New Orleans, Louisiana. Inside this residence, members of the Task Force located a loaded Glock Model 27, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol and a loaded Smith & Wesson Model Lady Smith, .38 caliber revolver in a nightstand next to JUSTIN’s bed. JUSTIN later admitted that he used the Glock and the Smith & Wesson revolver in the nightstand for his protection. At the conclusion of a two-day trial, the jury found JUSTIN guilty of the sole count of the Superseding Indictment.
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 United States Attorney’s Office praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force which led this investigation.
The prosecution of the case was conducted by U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans and Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on June 16, 2021, ALONZO PITTMAN, 34, from Orleans Parish, pled guilty as charged to a one-count indictment for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
On July 2, 2019, PITTMAN sold a Hi-Point Model JHP, .45 caliber pistol to a confidential informant in the Hollygrove neighborhood of New Orleans. His previous felony conviction stemming from an incident in Jefferson Parish prevented him from possessing a firearm.
PITTMAN will be sentenced on September 29, 2021. He faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Bücher is in charge of the prosecution.
Former Asbestos Contractor Sentenced for Theft of Federal Program FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MARC A. VICTORIANO “VICTORIANO”, age 46, of Covington, Louisiana, was sentenced today before United States District Court Judge Lance M. Africk to five years probation with 8 months of home confinement for theft from a program receiving federal funds. He was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee and $212,618.00 in restitution to the victim, Terrebonne Parish School Board.
According to court records, from 2015 to 2017, VICTORIANO and his company, Professional Safety Consultants, LLC, ("PSC") provided asbestos inspections for the Terrebonne Parish School Board ("TPSB") as mandated by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act ("AHERA"). VICTORIANO submitted 56 invoices to TPSB with fraudulent asbestos laboratory reports including false air monitoring and false asbestos testing reports. VICTORIANO also submitted nine invoices to TPSB for AHERA reports with forged signatures and accreditation information. As a result, TPSB paid VICTORIANO approximately $212,618.26 to which he was not entitled, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A).
“Financial Crime is a despicable felony that impacts many citizens, said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. “However, this scheme to defraud Terrebonne Parish Schools, that placed students and staff in a potentially dangerous situation and financially victimized taxpayers, exponentially aggravated this crime. Our office commits to continue our local, state and federal partnerships to seek justice for our community, especially our most vulnerable populations.”
“The defendant was responsible for the safe and legal removal of material containing asbestos,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Brooks of EPA’s criminal enforcement program in Louisiana. “The defendant knowingly ignored regulations on the safe management of asbestos, putting workers, the general public, and most alarmingly school children, at risk. This resulted in the Terrebonne Parish (Louisiana) School Board being defrauded out of $212,618.”
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division; the Louisiana State Police; Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Criminal Investigation Section and the Louisiana Environmental Crimes Task Force, for their investigation of matter. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Men Pleads Guilty to Their Roles in A Federal Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on June 14, 2021, that ROMALIS HARRIS, age 36, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty to a two-count Superseding Bill of Information. In Count 1, HARRIS is charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine hydrochloride in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B), and 846. In Count 2, HARRIS is charged with use of communication facilities to further a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
According to court documents, HARRIS conspired with other members of a drug trafficking organization to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base. Additionally, HARRIS used a communication facility, the telephone, to facilitate the distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base.
United States District Court Judge Susie Morgan will sentence HARRIS on September 23, 2021. For Count 1, HARRIS faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years, with a possible maximum sentence of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of at least 4 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For Count 2, HARRIS faces a term of imprisonment of up to 4 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to 1 year, 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.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on Tuesday, June 15, 2021, that MICHAEL LOUIS, a/k/a “Michael Lewis,” , age 61, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana pled guilty to a two-count Superseding Bill of Information. In Count 1, LOUIS is charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine hydrochloride in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846. In Count 2, LOUIS is charged with use of communication facilities to further a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
According to court documents, LOUIS conspired with other members of a drug trafficking organization to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride. Additionally, LOUIS used a communication facility, the telephone, to facilitate the distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base (look into in FB).
United States District Court Judge Susie Morgan will sentence LOUIS on September 30, 2021. For Count 1, LOUIS faces a term of imprisonment of up to 20 years, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of at least 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For Count 2, LOUIS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of up to 4 years, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to 1 year, 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.”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on Monday, June 14, 2021, that DEMARCO FORD, age 64, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana pled guilty to a two-count Superseding Bill of Information. In Count 1, FORD is charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine hydrochloride in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846. In Count 2, FORD is charged with use of communication facilities to further a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
According to court documents, FORD conspired with other members of a drug trafficking organization to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine hydrochloride. Additionally, FORD used a communication facility, the telephone, to facilitate the distribution and possession with intent to distribute cocaine base.
United States District Court Judge Susie Morgan will sentence FORD on September 28, 2021. For Count 1, FORD faces a term of imprisonment of up to 20 years, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of at least 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For Count 2, FORD faces a term of imprisonment of up to 4 years, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to 1 year, 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.”
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.
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Laplace Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control ActsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that ELI JUAN MOORE, age 25, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on June 17, 2021 to an Indictment. In Count One, MOORE pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing heroin. In Count Five, MOORE pled guilty to distributing a quantity of a mixture or substance containing heroin. In Count Seven, MOORE pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, in January 2019, MOORE sold heroin to a confidential informant and in May 2019, MOORE possessed an FM Hi-Power Model Detective, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol during a search of his residence.
The Honorable District Court Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon will sentence MOORE on October 7, 2021. MOORE faces a maximum sentence of up to twenty years of imprisonment, a fine up to $1,000,000.00, a period of supervised release not less than three years, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00, as it relates to Counts One and Five. MOORE faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00 as to it relates to Count Seven.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare is prosecuting the matter.
Ex-White House Military Aide and Maryland Businessman Sentenced to over 8 Years in Prison for Operating Fraudulent Eb-5 Visa SchemeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that businessman WILLIAM B. “BART” HUNGERFORD, JR., age 60, of Maryland, and ex-White House military aide and former U.S. Air Force colonel TIMOTHY O. MILBRATH, age 65, also of Maryland, were sentenced today for running a scheme to defraud investors during defendants’ operation of the New Orleans EB-5 Regional Center after Hurricane Katrina. U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH each to 102 months in prison.
After a three-week trial before Judge Guidry that concluded in September 2019, a federal jury found HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH guilty on all counts of the superseding indictment. Although trial was completed in September 2019, an in-person sentencing could not be held due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The charges stemmed from the defendants’ exploitation of the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services’ (USCIS) EB-5 visa program. Congress created this program to bring investment into the United States and to create American jobs. The visa program permits immigrants to invest a minimum of $1,000,000.00 in a United States job-creating enterprise and obtain permanent residency if, after two years, that investment created or preserved ten American jobs. The minimum investment required was lowered to $500,000.00 if the investment was made in a targeted employment area (“TEA”), defined as an area with an unemployment rate of 150% of the national average.
The evidence at trial established that HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH formed NobleOutReach, LLC, to operate an EB-5 investment fund. The defendants then persuaded the City of New Orleans to allow their company to run the City’s EB-5 regional center. Because New Orleans was a designated TEA in the years after Hurricane Katrina, immigrant investors only had to invest $500,000.00 in order to qualify under the EB-5 visa program. HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH represented to investors that their $500,000.00 investment would be used to create jobs in New Orleans and contribute to the rebuilding of the City. A total of 31 immigrants invested a total of $15.5 million in the defendants’ investment fund. These immigrants also paid thousands of dollars in addition as “service fees” to the defendants. Along with another non-immigrant investor who also invested with the defendants, HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH obtained a total of $18,070,000.00 from investors.
However, instead of investing these funds into New Orleans-based job-creating enterprises, HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH fraudulently misappropriated investor funds for their own personal gain. HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH wrote themselves checks drawn from investor funds which they disguised as “loans” or “loan repayments.” The evidence showed that the defendants created multiple companies in order to conceal the path of investor funds and misappropriate them. The defendants also spent investor funds to purchase vacation and rental properties for their own benefit. During the perpetration of the fraud, the defendants made false representations to investors, USCIS, and the City of New Orleans.
Judge Guidry sentenced the defendants to 102 months as to each Count 1 (conspiracy to commit wire fraud), Count 3 (conspiracy to commit money laundering), and Counts 4 through 9 (wire fraud). As to Count 2, conspiracy to commit immigration fraud, Judge Guidry sentenced the defendants to the statutory maximum of 60 months in prison. He also sentenced HUNGERFORD and MILBRATH each to two years of supervised release. Judge Guidry agreed to take the Government’s motions for restitution and for a preliminary order of forfeiture under submission to be determined at a later date.
“USCIS places the highest priority on ensuring that every program we manage, including the EB-5 program, is administered with fairness and integrity,” said USCIS Acting Director Tracy Renaud. “We are grateful to our many law enforcement partners who helped to deliver justice in this case and uphold the integrity of the EB-5 program.”
“Today’s sentence sends a clear message to criminals who commit fraud against anyone, including aspiring U.S. citizens, that they will be held accountable. The economic crimes committed by Timothy Milbrath and William "Bart" Hungerford are most egregious and grossly impacted the New Orleans economy and investors hopeful of the American dream. The FBI is committed to rooting out and aggressively pursuing dishonest businesspeople like Hungerford and Milbrath,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams, Jr. "I would like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and US Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS) for the tremendous effort and work put forth in this investigation."
“This was a very detailed and complex case with many moving parts, but it in the end, it ultimately all comes down to greed. This elaborate scheme to defraud our community, taxpayers and those lawfully seeking permanent residency in the United States, occurred in the wake of one of the most tumultuous times in our city’s history, which makes this crime more egregious. Attempts by perpetrators to conduct fraudulent schemes will not be tolerated,” stated U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Orleans Field Office. U.S. Attorney Evans also thanked U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services for their assistance in prosecuting this case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew R. Payne, Shirin Hakimzadeh, Maria M. Carboni, and Andre J. Lagarde.
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Ascension Parish Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking OffensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on June 15, 2021, PERCEL GOMEZ, age 39, from Ascension Parish, Louisiana, was sentenced to time served by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry for drug trafficking offenses. GOMEZ was also sentenced to 3 years of supervised release and to pay a $100 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, GOMEZ conspired to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin between August 25, 2017 and January 25, 2018 in the Eastern District of Louisiana and elsewhere.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih and Nicholas D. Moses are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JEFFERY HOLMES, age 45, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on June 16, 2021 before the Honorable Sarah S. Vance to charges of 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.
Sentencing is scheduled for October 27, 2021. HOLMES faces a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 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 Personal Injury Attorney Pleads Guilty in Connection with Staged Accident ProbeRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that DANNY PATRICK KEATING, JR., age 52, of New Orleans, Louisiana, entered a plea of guilty today to Conspiracy to Commit Mail and Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans before Chief United States District Court Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown.
KEATING was the thirty-third (33rd) defendant charged in the Government’s federal probe into the intentional staging of motor vehicle accidents with tractor-trailers and commercial vehicles in the metropolitan New Orleans area. Thus far, twenty-three (23) of the thirty-three (33) indicted defendants have tendered guilty pleas in federal court.
According to today’s guilty plea, KEATING was a personal injury attorney licensed to practice law in the State of Louisiana. KEATING admitted to conspiring with Damian Labeaud and others to defraud insurance companies, commercial carriers, and trucking companies in a scheme involving intentionally staging automobile accidents.
Labeaud referred staged accidents to KEATING and other New Orleans personal injury attorneys for $1,000.00 per passenger for accidents involving tractor-trailers and $500.00 per passenger for accidents not involving tractor-trailers. KEATING advanced Labeaud thousands of dollars for these accidents and instructed Labeaud that he owed KEATING a certain number of accidents based on the amount of money advanced. For instance, on July 17, 2017, KEATING gave Labeaud $15,000.00 so Labeaud could purchase a $15,000.00 Chase Bank cashier’s check to buy Mario Solomon’s truck.[1]Additionally, on September 25, 2017, KEATING wrote a $17,000.00 check to himself for “advertising” and used the proceeds to purchase a $17,000.00 cashier’s check payable to Labeaud. The Indictment alleges KEATING paid Labeaud another $12,500.00 in checks during the month of June 2017.
KEATING admitted he knowingly paid Labeaud for thirty-one (31) illegally staged tractor-trailer accidents. KEATING represented seventy-seven (77) plaintiffs involved in the thirty-one (31) accidents staged by Labeaud. KEATING settled seventeen (17) of the thirty-one (31) staged accidents. The Indictment charged that KEATING and his clients received approximately $1,500,000.00 in settlement resulting from his representation of his clients involved in the staged accidents and that KEATING kept approximately $358,000.00 in attorney’s fees.
KEATING admitted he filed lawsuits in state and federal court in Louisiana on behalf of his clients who were involved in the staged accidents. The lawsuits filed on behalf of the seventy-seven (77) plaintiffs fraudulently alleged who was driving the vehicles, misrepresented who was at fault in the staged accidents, and falsely claimed injuries. KEATING used the U.S Postal Service to mail settlement demands on behalf of his clients who were involved in staged accidents from the Eastern District of Louisiana to various out-of-state locations. In many cases, clients of KEATING provided false testimony in depositions taken in conjunction with lawsuits filed by KEATING.
KEATING faces a maximum term of five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000.00 or twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person of the offense under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571. In addition, KEATING faces a term of supervised release up to three (3) years after his release from prison. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for January 20, 2021, before Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown.
“Fraud, regardless of its scope and means of orchestration, is a serious crime. Especially egregious is fraud committed against the hardworking taxpayer by a member of our legal community, said U.S. Attorney of the Eastern District of Louisiana Duane A. Evans.” This guilty plea sends a clear message that our office, along with our local, state, and federal partners, will continue to vigorously investigate and prosecute all such corruption cases regardless of status.
“Today’s guilty plea sends a clear message to individuals who choose to engage in fraudulent schemes that grossly impact automobile and health insurance industries. They will be held accountable. Mr. Patrick Keating, a local attorney, took an oath to uphold the United States Constitution and the laws of the State of Louisiana, but instead, violated those laws and his oath in order to unjustly enrich himself by engaging in a scheme which resulted in the filing of fraudulent auto and medical insurance claims,” stated Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams, Jr. ”I would like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office of Eastern District of Louisiana, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission for their partnership and outstanding work accomplished during this investigation.”
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 Rivera; Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni.
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[1]Solomon was a spotter who worked with Labeaud in staging automobile accidents. Solomon pled guilty on May 28, 2020, and was sentenced on January 22, 2021.
Montz Woman Charged with Theft of Government FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that IGEL CASANOVA GIBBINS (“GIBBINS”), age 43, of Montz, Louisiana, was charged on June 15, 2021 by a Bill of Information for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.
According to the Bill of Information, the case against IGEL CASANOVA GIBBINS (“GIBBINS”) began after the State of Louisiana complied with a request from the Social Security Administration (SSA) to provide the SSA with death data of approximately 1.6 million Social Security number holders who had died in Louisiana from January 1, 1979, through December 31, 2019. As part of that data, the State of Louisiana disclosed that D.C., a participant in the SSA’s Retirement Survivor Insurance program (“RSI Program”), died on or about August 16, 2012.
Unaware of D.C.’s death, the SSA erroneously released approximately $202,417.00 in RSI Program funds from August 2012 through December 2020, via automatic wire transfers (i.e., direct deposit) to D.C.’s jointly held Capital One Bank (“Capital One”) account. GIBBINS, D.C.’s daughter, was a joint account holder of the Capital One account. D.C.’s RSI Program benefits were not transferrable to GIBBINS. Following the automatic deposit of RSI Program benefits, GIBBINS accessed the funds and wrongfully converted the funds to her own personal use, depleting nearly all account funds. The funds were used on purchase transactions or transfers out of the account to pay bills, for example, such as for mortgage payments and vehicle loan payments. GIBBINS never advised the SSA of D.C.’s death.
The SSA determined that GIBBINS fraudulently obtained $200,396 in (SSA) disability benefits from her father’s Capital One Bank account.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans reiterated that the Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, GIBBINS faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige O’Hale.
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Company Pleads Guilty to Causing 2016 Oil Spill and Agrees to $1 Million FineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that GREAT LAKES DREDGE & DOCK COMPANY, LLC (“GREAT LAKES”), a Texas company, pled guilty on June 15, 2021 to violating the Clean Water Act in connection with an oil spill in 2016, and agreed to pay a $1 million fine and additional restitution to be determined by the court.
According to court documents, GREAT LAKES admitted to negligently causing the discharge of a harmful quantity of oil into a navigable water of the United States, in violation of the Clean Water Act. The spill took place on September 5, 2016, on the edge of Bay Long near the Chenier Ronquille barrier island, which is east of Grand Isle.
In the plea documents, GREAT LAKES admitted that in its contract with National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (“NOAA”), GREAT LAKES was responsible for locating all pipelines in the area of the project and complying with the federal Pipeline Safety Act and the “One Call” system created by the Louisiana Underground Utilities and Facilities Damage Prevention Law. GREAT LAKES admitted that it violated those two laws by failing to alert pipeline companies about continuing work near their pipelines for several months leading up to the oil spill.
James Tassin, the subcontractor working for GREAT LAKES who operated the marsh buggy that physically caused the spill, was charged in a separate criminal case, No. 21-cr-8, and he pled guilty as charged on March 18, 2021 and is awaiting sentencing. According to court documents in Tassin’s case, after GREAT LAKES stopped complying with One Call requirements, a GREAT LAKES employee instructed Tassin to use his marsh buggy to dig near pipelines, despite that digging not being in NOAA’s approved plans, and without GREAT LAKES getting approval from any pipeline companies that it was safe to dig. While Tassin was in the area of that work on September 5, 2016, he struck one of the pipelines with his marsh buggy and caused the oil spill. Tassin admitted that a GREAT LAKES employee instructed Tassin not to tell anyone that Tassin had been digging near the site of the spill, so Tassin followed that instruction. In GREAT LAKES’ plea documents, GREAT LAKES admitted that it supervised Tassin’s work and that GREAT LAKES’ negligent supervision of Tassin caused the oil spill.
“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. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to continue working with its federal partners to investigate and hold entities accountable when they neglect their professional and legal obligations and threaten the environment, which places the public and our ecosystem in Southeastern Louisiana at risk.”
“The defendant in this case recklessly violated regulations designed to protect the environment and then tried to hide its actions,” said Christopher Brooks, Special Agent in Charge of EPA’s Criminal Enforcement Program in Louisiana. “Today’s guilty plea demonstrates that we will hold violators responsible for breaking our environmental laws.”
“Failure to adhere to laws and regulations intended to protect our Nation’s natural resources can have serious consequences both for the environment and the integrity of the pipeline transportation system, as was the case in this instance,” said Todd Damiani, Special Agent-in-Charge, Southern Region, Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General. “We echo the commitment expressed by our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to ensuring that those who violate these laws and regulations are held accountable.”
“The Department of Commerce OIG is dedicated to working with our partners to curb fraud, waste and abuse, especially when projects receiving NOAA funding result in environmental hazards. We greatly appreciate the cooperative efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement counterparts in ensuring justice is served in this matter,” said Duane Townsend, Special Agent in Charge, U.S Department of Commerce, Office of Inspector General.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, GREAT LAKES agreed to pay a fine of $1 million. GREAT LAKES also agreed to deposit $2 million with the court in an advance of a future hearing to determine the final amount of restitution to any victims. U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry will set a sentencing hearing at a later date.
The case was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Commerce’s Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.
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Defendants from Orleans and Jefferson Parishes Plead 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 DONIESHA GIBSON (“GIBSON”), age 29, of New Orleans, Louisiana and ERICA LEE THOMPSON (“ERICA LEE”), age 46, of Harvey, Louisiana, entered guilty pleas today to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans before United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance.
According to today’s guilty pleas, GIBSON and ERICA LEE, along with their co-conspirators and others, beginning in approximately as early as 2015 and continuing through the present, conspired to commit wire fraud in connection with staged accidents with Cornelius Garrison, including two that occurred on October 15, 2015, and September 6, 2017. Today’s guilty pleas bring the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” to twenty-two (22).
Today, GIBSON admitted to being a passenger in a staged accident on October 15, 2015. On that day, her former co-defendant intentionally drove a 2014 Dodge Avenger owned by GIBSON into a Hotard bus while traveling on the I-10 near the flyover of the I-510. GIBSON retained an attorney and thereafter made a claim for damages. The total settlement for the Hotard bus accident was approximately $677,500.
ERICA LEE admitted that on September 6, 2017, on the I-10 near the Almonaster exit, she was a passenger in LEE’s 2015 RAV4 being driven by their former co-defendant, when he intentionally crashed into a tractor-trailer owned by Averitt Express. ERICA LEE retained counsel and made a claim for damages. The total settlement for the Averitt accident was $30,000.
In total, the victim trucking, bus, and insurance companies paid out approximately $707,500.00 for these two fraudulent claims orchestrated by the defendants and others.
GIBSON and ERICA LEE face a maximum sentence of five (5) years of incarceration. Upon release from prison, each defendant also faces a term of supervised release of up to (3) three years, and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to each defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for November 3, 2021, 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 Shirin Hakimzadeh; and Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni.
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California Woman Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that ZORAIDA LARA, a/k/a ZORAIDA TRINIDAD, age 50, a resident of Alta Loma, California, pleaded guilty on June 10, 2021 to a two-count Superseding Bill of Information, charging her with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin 100 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing heroin and distribution and possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing heroin.
According to court records, in November 2019, during an investigation by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, LARA communicated with a special agent working in an undercover capacity about the transportation of illegal narcotics to the New Orleans, LA area. Shortly after their conversation, LARA arranged for co-defendant, David Mora, to deliver the narcotics to the New Orleans area. After Mora delivered the narcotics, which included heroin, LARA flew from California to New Orleans to collect payment for the illegal narcotics and was subsequently arrested upon her arrival.
The Honorable District Court Judge Barry W. Ashe will sentence LARA on September 30, 2021. LARA faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years in prison and a maximum of 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000.00, at least 4 years supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment as to each count.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with the assistance of the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare is in charge of the prosecution.
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Terrebonne Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on June 14, 2021, CAESAR RAYMON WILLIAMS, 42, from Terrebonne Parish, pled guilty as charged to a five- count indictment for two counts of distribution of heroin, one count of distribution of cocaine base, one count of possession with the intent to distribute heroin, and one count of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine base, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
In Count One, WILLIAMS distributed heroin to a confidential source on March 9, 2021. In Counts Two and Three, he sold heroin and cocaine base to a confidential source on March 18, 2021. In Counts Four and Five, on March 25, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant on WILLIAMS’s home and discovered that he possessed with the intent to distribute heroin and cocaine base.
Due to WILLIAMS’s extensive criminal history involving drug trafficking, at sentencing, he faces up to a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years, a maximum fine of up to
$1,000,000, at least 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, Houma Police Department, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Bücher.
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Chicago Resident Pleads Guilty to Delivering Three Kilograms of Heroin to New Orleans Drug DealerRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RICKY REDD, age 35, a resident of Chicago, Illinois, pled guilty on June 10, 2021 to conspiring to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. REDD is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a possible fine of up to $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release upon his release from prison and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court records, on December 27, 2017, agents intercepted communications between REDD and Arthur Johnson, a New Orleans based heroin dealer. In these communications, REDD and Johnson discussed REDD’s pending delivery of heroin. REDD was driving that day from Chicago to New Orleans to give Johnson a bag containing approximately three kilograms of heroin.
Later that same day, surveillance agents observed REDD and Johnson twice meet at the Holiday Inn Hotel, located at 330 Loyola Avenue in New Orleans. During the first meeting, REDD gave Johnson the bag containing approximately three kilograms of heroin. During the second meeting, Johnson gave REDD approximately $187,000. REDD was to earn a small amount of the money that Johnson paid him.
The evidence against REDD includes numerous intercepted communications, including jail calls, physical surveillance, and witness statements.
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan will sentence REDD on October 6, 2021. REDD, Johnson, and five other defendants were charged in 2018 with conspiring to distribute heroin in the New Orleans area.
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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Golden Meadow Man Indicted for Receipt and Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today the Indictment of DILLON J. EVERETT, age 34, of Golden Meadow, Louisiana, who was charged in a two-count federal indictment for Receipt and Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Children in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (a)(4)(B). If convicted, EVERETT faces a mandatory minimum sentence of fifteen (15) years and a maximum sentence of forty (40) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person as a result of these offenses, of the offense as per Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571. In addition, EVERETT faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life after his release from prison and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case 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.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JON YOUNG, age 35, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on June 9, 2021 before the Honorable Sarah S. Vance to an indictment charging him with violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to the court records, YOUNG 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 and YOUNG possessed with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin. YOUNG admitted to being captured on recorded calls as part of a lengthy Title III wire intercept.
Sentencing is scheduled for September 29, 2021. YOUNG faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of at least 5 years up to a maximum of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $200 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 Sentenced for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on June 8, 2021, CHRISTOPER BONDY, age 40, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced to 63 months imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter for attempting to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Additionally, BONDY was ordered to serve 4 years of supervised release and pay a $100 special assessment fee. No fines were imposed in this case.
According to court documents, BONDY set up a deal to purchase four kilograms of cocaine from undercover agents. During the drug deal, BONDY gave the undercover agents $49,960 in cash in exchange for the cocaine. BONDY was subsequently arrested.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare prosecuted this case.
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Former Postal Employee Charged with Delay of U.S. MailRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MILES J. DUPERON, age 29, of Slidell, was charged on June 7, 2021 in a one-count bill of information with delay of U.S. Mail matter by postal employee, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 1703(a).
According to the bill of information, on or about July 2019 through January 21, 2020, DUPERON unlawfully delayed U.S. mail, which was intended to be conveyed by mail.
If convicted, DUPERON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of up to $250,000.00 or the greater of twice the gross gain to defendant or loss to victim, up to three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.
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 Postal Service, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Felon Indicted on Numerous Gun and Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on June 4, 2021, a Federal Grand Jury indicted QUENTRELL BERTHOLOTTE, age 29 of New Orleans, Louisiana, in a four count indictment for violations of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(c)(1)(A)(i) and Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
According to court documents, BERTHOLOTTE was previously convicted of a drug trafficking offense in Orleans Parish. He is now alleged to be in possession of multiple firearms and in possession with the intent to distribute a large amount of a narcotic mixture containing fentanyl. BERTHOLOTTE is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his criminal history.
BERTHOLOTTE, if convicted of possession with intent to distribute narcotics, faces a minimum term of five (5) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, a minimum of five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. If convicted of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, he faces a minimum term of five (5) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. If convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, he faces up to a maximum of ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles D. Strauss.
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Jefferson Parish Men Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ERIC RODRIGUEZ and GREG TRAHAN were charged on June 4, 2021, in a four-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
In counts 1 and 2, RODRIGUEZ is charged with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C). If convicted of count 1, RODRIGUEZ faces a minimum of five years imprisonment up to a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment. If convicted of count 2, RODRIGUEZ faces up to a maximum term of 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment.
TRAHAN is charged in counts 3 and 4 with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, respectively, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). If convicted on either count, he faces up to a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the defendants’ guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Kenner Police Department, Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, and St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Nolan Paige, André Jones, and Melissa Bücher.
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New Orleans Man Admits to Possessing A Gun in Furtherance of Drug DealingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BRADLEY BRIGHT, 32, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey.
In February 2020, BRIGHT was indicted for various counts of distribution of heroin and cocaine base, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
Court documents show that as part of his plea, BRIGHT admitted that he distributed crack cocaine near a store on Basin Street outside the French Quarter. New Orleans Police Department Officers observed the sale and stopped the buyer, who had a crack pipe in her pocket and crack in her purse. After confirming the transaction had in fact been a hand to hand drug sale, the officers attempted to arrest BRIGHT, who fled. After a brief chase, the officers subdued and arrested BRIGHT. The officers found a .40 caliber handgun that had been reported stolen and that was fully loaded with 15 rounds near the location of BRIGHT’s arrest.
Sentencing is set for September 7, 2021 before District Judge Zainey. BRIGHT faces a sentence of at least 5 years imprisonment up to life, a $250,000 fine, up to five years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.
U. S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the New Orleans Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
New Orleans Woman Sentenced on Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 26, 2021, ZYETA RUDOLPH, age 42, a resident of Orleans Parish, Louisiana, was sentenced to serve 37 months in the custody of the United States Bureau of Prisons for participating in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. RUDOLPH was also sentenced to 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
These charges stemmed from an investigation by both the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office into the illegal distribution of drugs in South Louisiana and Houston, Texas. This investigation led to the Indictment of Paul Metz, Eugene Rudolph, Elbert Childs, ZYETA RUDOLPH, Yrian Devoure, and Dale Phillips back in May 2019 under case number 19-087 “H”. To date, Elbert Childs, ZYETA RUDOLPH, and Dale Phillips have pled guilty.
During her guilty plea in this case, ZYETA RUDOLPH admitted that she was a drug courier for her brother Gene Rudolph. She acknowledged that she had transported between 3.5 and 5 kilograms of cocaine from Houston to the greater New Orleans area on behalf of her brother.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (D.E.A.), and the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu is in charge of the prosecution.
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Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that KENNIE SANTOS-PAYANO, age 25, a resident of Kissimmee, Florida, pleaded guilty on May 27, 2021 to a one count Indictment, charging him with possession with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride.
The Honorable District Court Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon will sentence SANTOS-PAYANO on September 23, 2021. SANTOS-PAYANO, if convicted, faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
The case was investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare is prosecuting the matter.
Jefferson Parish Westbank Man Sentenced for Distribution of HeroinRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that BRYAN JOSEPH, age 46, was sentenced on a one-count superseding bill of information for distributing heroin in Jefferson Parish. United States District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced JOSEPH to serve 240 months in federal prison. JOSEPH was placed on 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay a mandatory $100.00 special assessment cost.
According to court documents, on October 14, 2018, deputies with Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office were dispatched to a McDonald’s restaurant located in Harvey, Louisiana. When deputies arrived, they were advised that an unresponsive male was found in a bathroom stall. Deputies found an uncapped needle, needle cap, bent spoon and corner of a cellophane bag near the body. Detectives reviewed the store’s video surveillance and saw the victim arrive to the restaurant on a bicycle and enter the bathroom. The victim never exited the bathroom. Subsequently, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office contacted the Federal Bureau of Investigation who then assisted with the investigation. Through the investigation, agents determined that JOSEPH sold the victim a quantity of heroin prior to the victim’s death. Jefferson Parish Forensic Center conducted an autopsy, which concluded that the victim died as a result of the toxic effects of heroin and fentanyl.
After agents identified JOSEPH as a suspect in the victim’s death, they successfully purchased heroin from JOSEPH on October 23, 2018 and October 25, 2018. On October 31, 2018, agents executed a search warrant at JOSEPH’s residence and located approximately 68.8 grams of heroin, approximately 156 grams of marijuana, digital scales and sandwich bags.
U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Gang Task Force, and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nolan D. Paige was in charge of the prosecution.
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Man Sentenced to 30 Months Imprisonment for Presenting A Fraudulent Transportation Worker Identification (TWIC) CardRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on May 25, 2021, JIMMIE FLORES (“FLORES”), age 58, was sentenced on a one-count indictment for fraudulent use of a TWIC card in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 499. United States District Court Judge Greg Guidry sentenced FLORES to serve 30 months in federal prison. FLORES was placed on 3 years supervised release and ordered to pay a mandatory $100.00 special assessment cost.
According to court documents, FLORES presented a fraudulent Transportation Worker Identification Card (TWIC) to security personnel in Galliano, Louisiana in an attempt to be flown by helicopter to an oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico. Security personnel questioned the authenticity of the card and ultimately denied FLORES’s admission to the rig. FLORES admitted to buying the counterfeit card at a Houston, Texas flea market. The Court ordered FLORES to report to prison on June 28, 2021.
U.S. Attorney Duane Evans praised the work of the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. was in charge of the prosecution.
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Laplace Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that RICHARD GRAY, age 60, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on May 27, 2021 to an Indictment. In Count One, GRAY pled guilty to conspiracy 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 pled guilty to knowingly and intentionally using a telephone in committing, causing, and facilitating the commission of the violation in Count One.
The Honorable District Court Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon will sentence GRAY on September 23, 2021. GRAY faces a maximum sentence of up to twenty years of imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release not less than three years, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00, as it relates to Counts One. For Count Six, GRAY faces a maximum sentence of four years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release up to one year, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. John the Baptist Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare is prosecuting the matter.
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Merchant Mariners Sentenced for Unlawfully Receiving LicensesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the sentencings, in April and May 2021, of the following defendants for convictions for receiving and possessing Coast Guard issued merchant mariners licenses to which they were not entitled: JONATHAN ABBEY, RAFAEL ATKINS, CHARLES FRANKS, JERRY FUDGE, JUSTIN GANDY, ANTHONY GARCES, EDWARD JONES, BRANDON MACK, HUGO MARQUEZ, MILES MARTS, DEVERICK MORROW, OCTAVIAN RICHARDS, ANTWAINE TRAVIS, and ROBERT WINTERS.
Each of these defendants was sentenced to a year of probation and 100 hours of community service. In pleading guilty, each of these defendants admitted to cheating on Coast Guard exams by paying for the entry of false scores. During their guilty pleas, these defendants acknowledged paying various individuals, including former mariners Alexis Bell, Micheal Wooten, and Sharron Robinson, who have plead guilty and are awaiting sentencing, as well as former Coast Guard employees Dorothy Smith, Eldridge Johnson and Beverly McCrary, who are scheduled to stand trial on June 28, 2021.
As alleged in the indictment, Smith, a Coast Guard credentialing specialist, entered false scores in exchange for bribe payments. The indictment alleges that Smith used a network of intermediaries, which included her former co-workers Johnson and McCrary. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment’s allegations against Smith, Johnson, and McCrary are merely charges and their guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by the Coast Guard Investigative Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon is in charge of the prosecution.
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