Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CRAIG JAMES (“JAMES”), age 38, of New Orleans, was indicted on January 29, 2026 for Distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to the indictment, on or about July 14, 2025, JAMES distributed forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.
If convicted, JAMES faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years up to forty years; a fine of up to $5 Million; and at least four years of supervised release. JAMES also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Briana N. Williams of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Man Sentenced for Fentanyl, Heroin, Cocaine Distribution Conspiracy and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RODOLFO AVILES-REYES a/k/a “Omar,” (“AVILES-REYES”), age 41, a resident of Mexico, was sentenced on February 25, 2026, after previously pleading guilty to three counts in a Superseding Indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, one kilogram or more of heroin, and 400 grams or more of fentanyl, conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, and interstate travel in aid of racketeering. AVILES-REYES was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to court documents, AVILES-REYES, and other co-conspirators, distributed multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin within the Eastern District of Louisiana. Additionally, AVILES-REYES, and other co-conspirators, traveled between New Orleans, and other states, in order to transport U.S. Currency and narcotics from Louisiana to Mexico, on behalf of a Drug Trafficking Organization.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office, and assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, the Kenner Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. John’s Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to 41 Months Imprisonment for Sending Obscene Videos to Person He Believed was a Fifteen-Year-Old FemaleRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – MARK BROOKS a/k/a “Baby Nu” (“BROOKS”), age 35, from New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 12, 2026 by United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to 41 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment and payment of a $100 special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to attempted transfer of obscene matter to a minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1470, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, on or about May 1, 2025, BROOKS contacted an FBI online covert employee pretending to be a fifteen-year-old female named “Ava”. Subsequently, after “Ava” told BROOKS that she was only fifteen years old, BROOKS engaged in a sexually charged, text-based correspondence with her. During their correspondence, BROOKS sent multiple sexually explicit videos to “Ava,” including videos of BROOKS masturbating while at work, and various rooms in a residence. During their correspondence, BROOKS repeatedly discussed meeting “Ava” in person for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts. On May 13, 2025, BROOKS proposed to Ava that they meet at a restaurant near his residence before proceeding to BROOKS’s residence to engage in sexual contact. “Ava” agreed. Law enforcement authorities arrested BROOKS as he walked from his residence to the restaurant.
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.
United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Importing Drugs from IndiaRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney David I Courcelle announced today that MARQUEL HORTON, (“HORTON”), age 41, of New Orleans, was indicted on February 6, 2026, on two counts of violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act. He was indicted in Count One for conspiracy to import tapentadol, a schedule II-controlled substance, into the United States from India, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C. §§ 952(a), 960(a)(1) and (b)(3), and 963. He was indicted in Count Two for Conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, tapentadol, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); §841(b)(1)(C), and 846. As to both counts, HORTON faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three (3) years of supervised release. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown, but prior to June 3, 2022, and continuing until the date of the indictment, HORTON conspired with others, both here in the Eastern District of Louisiana, and in India, to import tapentadol from India into the United States. Once HORTON obtained this imported tapentadol, he further conspired with other individuals to distribute the tapentadol throughout the greater New Orleans area.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Control, Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
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New Orleans Man Guilty of Being Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
Correction: DARVALE WILLIAMS pled guilty to possession of a stolen firearm, which is a violation of 18 U. S.C. § 922(j).
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARVALE WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 20, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on February 18, 2026, before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to violating the Federal Gun Control Act, by being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court records, in March 2024, the FBI surveilled an apartment complex in New Orleans East and observed a suspicious looking Toyota Camry parked behind the complex. As the FBI agents who were watching the apartment complex saw the Camry begin to circle the complex to leave, they blocked the Camry’s exit causing the occupants, including WILLIAMS and another male, to abandon the Camry and flee on foot. Both men were apprehended by law enforcement shortly thereafter and WILLIAMS left behind a Romarm/Cugir Draco 7.62 rifle on the backseat. That Romarm/Cugir Draco rifle had been reported stolen on December 26, 2022, during a home robbery.
Judge Milazzo set sentencing for May 20, 2026. WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of ten years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and the New Orleans District Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Liz Privitera and Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.
Former Jail Nurse Guilty of Four Fraud Schemes and Possession with Intent to Distribute OxycodoneRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that TONYA DENISE BROWN (“BROWN”), age 49, of Tangipahoa Parish, a licensed practical nurse pleaded guilty to five felonies on February 12, 2026, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Specifically, BROWN pleaded guilty to four counts of Wire Fraud, with each count involving a different scheme.
According to court records, in one scheme, BROWN obtained money with false promises of assistance with state criminal prosecutions. According to court documents, BROWN used a nursing job at the Tangipahoa Parish Jail to conduct the scheme. In the other three schemes, BROWN defrauded people by claiming that, in exchange for money, she would help them obtain disaster assistance benefits. BROWN also defrauded the HUD-funded Restore Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Program, that provided grant funding to homeowners affected by disasters. Additionally, BROWN defrauded FEMA’s rental assistance program that provided grants to help displaced disaster victims pay their rent.
Finally, BROWN pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Oxycodone Hydrochloride pills, a Controlled Substance and admitted that she offered to sell such. BROWN also acknowledged that she lied to the FBI and to a judge regarding this matter.
The possession with intent to distribute count, the wire fraud count for false promises of assistance with state criminal cases, and the wire fraud count for false promises of assistance with disaster benefits and are each punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment. The wire fraud counts related to the Restore program and the FEMA rental assistance program are each punishable by up to 30 years’ imprisonment due to enhanced penalties for fraud involving disaster benefits. A fine of up to $250,000 may be imposed for each count except the Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance count, for which a fine of up to $1,000,000 may be imposed. BROWN is subject to at least three years of supervised release and is required to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, per count.
United States Attorney Courcelle thanked the FEMA Fraud Investigations & Internal Inspections Division, Fraud Prevention and Investigations Branch for its assistance in this matter.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of Inspector General - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Former Department of Justice Prosecutor and Dallas Defense Attorney Sentenced for Unauthorized Disposal of Government RecordsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – Former federal prosecutor Carlos A. Lopez (“Lopez”), age 49, and Dallas-based criminal defense attorney Barrett R. Howell (“Howell”), age 50, were sentenced on February 18, 2026 for charges relating to their deletion of text messages that they had been ordered to produce by a United States District Judge, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle .
U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey L. Cureton of the United States District Court for the Northern District of Texas sentenced Lopez to one year of probation and a fine of $5,000, and Howell to six months of probation and a fine of $2,500. Both defendants were also ordered to pay $25 mandatory special assessment fees. Lopez had previously pleaded guilty to the unauthorized disposal of government records valued at less than $1,000, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 641. Howell had previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the unauthorized disposal of government records valued at less than $1,000, a violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 641 and 2. Because the records are valued at less than $1,000, these are misdemeanor offenses. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas recused itself from this matter, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana was appointed by the Attorney General to act as special prosecutors.
According to court records, Howell represented a client under investigation with others for federal healthcare fraud. Lopez was a Trial Attorney for the U.S. Department of Justice and was the lead prosecutor in the healthcare fraud investigation. Between September 2021 and December 2022, three individuals were charged with healthcare fraud in federal court in Dallas, although Howell’s client was not charged.
In April 2023, two of the charged defendants alleged that Howell violated a joint defense agreement. The two defendants filed a sealed motion to compel discovery and requested an evidentiary hearing to determine whether joint defense protected information had been provided by Howell to Lopez. U.S. District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn granted the discovery request for production of all communications, including text communications, between Howell and Lopez. Judge Lynn also set an evidentiary hearing for May 15, 2023.
According to the plea documents, after being made aware of the motion to compel, Lopez deleted text messages with Howell from his government-issued cell phone. Lopez subsequently produced an incomplete set of screenshots of his text messages with Howell from his government-issued cell phone. On or about April 14, 2023, Lopez and Howell saw each other at a conference and Lopez told Howell that there was an allegation that Howell shared privileged material. Lopez indicated that they should not speak further and should not have communications between them. Howell agreed.
On or about April 20, 2023, after being served with a copy of the motion to compel discovery, Howell deleted text messages from his cell phone between him and Lopez. Those texts were recovered by a forensic consultant who searched his cloud account. Howell’s law firm then produced a forensic image of the cloud account for his cell phone. Prior to the production, Howell reviewed the forensic image and observed that the deleted texts were still present. Howell permitted the texts to be produced although his deletions were ultimately unsuccessful.
On or about May 10, 2023, the government learned, after reviewing extracted messages from Howell’s forensically-imaged cloud account, that many text messages with Lopez had been marked “deleted” on April 20, 2023, the same day that Howell was served with the motion to compel. The next day, Lopez appeared with a personal attorney who told DOJ lawyers that Lopez had also deleted text messages.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Inspector General, Dallas Office which handled this investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew R. Payne of the Financial Crimes Unit and Megan R. Roberts of the Appellate Unit handled this prosecution.
Texas Man Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – COREY TOLIVER, a/k/a “Woog” (“TOLIVER”) age 45, a Texas resident, pled guilty on February 10, 2026, before United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion to possession with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 851, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, in April 2025, TOLIVER transported, and possessed, approximately two (2) kilograms of cocaine with intent to distribute them into and within the Eastern District of Louisiana.
At sentencing, TOLIVER faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $8,000,000, at least 8 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
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New Orleans Man Indicted for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – On January 29, 2026, KENTRELL WILLIAMS (WILLIAMS), a/k/a “Fire,” age 43, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on January 29, 2026, for distribution of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, on August 13, 2025, WILLIAMS distributed approximately 56 grams of fentanyl in New Orleans.
If convicted of distribution of fentanyl, WILLIAMS faces a minimum term of five (5) years, up to a maximum term of forty (40) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four (4) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle 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 Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana State Police, the Major Crimes Task Force, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
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New Orleans Man Guilty of Being Felon in Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that SHAYNE DAVIS (“DAVIS”), age 36, a resident of Gretna, pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm on February 3, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Darrel J. Papillion, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. Specifically, DAVIS pleaded guilty to an indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).
According to court documents, in March 2025, federal and local task force officers were assigned to locate and arrest DAVIS, who was wanted for aggravated assault and felon in possession of firearm charges. DAVIS fled when officers and federal agents attempted to arrest him and, during the chase, he discarded the firearm in a neighbor’s yard. DAVIS was quickly apprehended and found to be in possession of a nine-millimeter magazine. The discarded firearm, a Glock Model 26 Gen5, nine-millimeter pistol, was recovered. Additionally, during the execution of a search warrant at DAVIS’s residence, officers discovered an FIE Titan, .25 caliber handgun.
DAVIS will be sentenced on May 12, 2026, and faces a maximum of fifteen years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit.
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Honduran National Sentenced for Reentry of Deported AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – WALTER OMAR CASCO-LOPEZ (“CASCO-LOPEZ”), age 36, was sentenced by United States District Judge Greg Gerard Guidry on February 4, 2026 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, CASCO-LOPEZ unlawfully reentered the United States after having been previously deported on October 12, 2011.
Judge Guidry sentenced CASCO-LOPEZ to twenty-one months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Upon completion of his sentence, CASCO-LOPEZ will be transferred to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for deportation to his home country of Honduras.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to deter illegal immigration, dismantle cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect communities from violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines enforcement efforts through coordination with the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Customs Enforcement Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.
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Former Postal Employee Indicted for Delay of United States MailRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DEMESMEN PERRIA, (“PERRIA”), age 28, of New Orleans, was indicted on February 6, 2026 for delay of United States mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, on or about July 14, 2025, PERRIA, then a United States Postal employee, delayed United States mail by dumping undelivered mail within the Eastern District of Louisiana.
For the offense, PERRIA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is prosecuting the matter.
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Former Bookkeeper Sentenced for Stealing from Her EmployerRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney, David I. Courcelle, announced that BELINDA MARTIN (“MARTIN”), age 51, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 10, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion, for access device fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(a)(2).
According to court documents, between 2022 and 2023, MARTIN embezzled money and things of value in excess of $1,000 from her employer through the fraudulent use of her company’s access device accounts. MARTIN was sentenced to 5 years of probation and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. MARTIN was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $63,112.87.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Chinese National Guilty of Possessing Fraudulent PassportRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JINGUI LIN (“LIN “) of China was sentenced on February 11, 2026, after previously pleading guilty to being in possession of a fraudulent passport, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1546(a). U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced LIN to the jail time he had already served since his custodial detention began on October 28, 2025, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. LIN will remain in immigration custody pending his deportation.
According to court documents, on October 28, 2025, Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) Officers encountered LIN and determined that he was Entry Without Inspection, or “EWI”, status and eligible to be taken into immigration custody. While taking him into custody, Officers found a fraudulent Chinese passport in LIN’s possession. The passport contained LIN’s photograph but a different name. The fraudulent passport also contained a fraudulent United States visa and a fraudulent CBP admission stamp. LIN was not in possession of proper immigration documents allowing him to enter or remain in the United States legally.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
The case was investigated by Officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Assistant United States Attorney Christine M. Calogero of the General Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.
Honduran Man Sentenced for Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DENIS EDGARDO BUEZO-ZELAYA (“BUEZO”), age 33, was sentenced on February 3, 2026 after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, BUEZO was removed from the United States on August 13, 2014, and was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on February 3, 2024, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.
BUEZO was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Darrel James Papillion to time-served, to be followed by one year of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Slidell Man Indicted for Injury to Government Property and Federal Clean Water Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On February 12, 2026, BRYANT BROWN, (“BROWN”), age 58, of Slidell, was indicted for injuring government property, and violating the federal Clean Water Act, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1361 and Title 33, United States Code, Section 1319(c)(2)(A), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, beginning on or about March 2025 and continuing until or about June 12, 2025, BROWN discharged pollutants onto the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge. The pollutants caused property damages in excess of $1,000.00. The Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is the largest urban wildlife refuge in the United States. It is comprised of wetlands that span nearly 30,000 acres.
For the injuring of government property offense, BROWN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. For the federal Clean Water Act offense, BROWN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of three (3) years, a fine of not less than $5,000.00 nor more than $50,000.00 per day, up to one (1) year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Environmental Protection Agency-Criminal Investigation Division, the Environmental Protection Agency-Office of Inspector General, the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, and the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is prosecuting the matter.
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Honduran National Guilty of Assault Against Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSE WALTER NIETO-CASTELLANOS (“NIETO-CASTELLANOS”), age 31, plead guilty on January 29, 2026, to Assault Against Law Enforcement, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(b), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to the charging document, on October 14, 2025, NIETO-CASTELLANOS forcibly obstructed and impeded a United States Customs and Border Protection Agent, while that agent was engaged in the performance of his official duties.
NIETO-CASTELLANOS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
NIETO-CASTELLANOS sentencing is set for March 12, 2026, before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. Special Assistant United States Attorney Frederick W. Veters Jr., of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.
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Guatemalan National Guilty of Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –YOVANI ALEXANDER CANU-GONZALEZ (“CANU-GONZALEZ”), age 25, a citizen of Guatemala, pled guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to the bill of information, CANU-GONZALEZ reentered the United States on or about July 29, 2024, after having been previously removed on or about May 24, 2023.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 13, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry. The maximum penalties facing CANU-GONZALEZ are imprisonment of not more than two (2) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. Additionally, CANU-GONZALEZ is subject to a period of supervised release after imprisonment of up to one year.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Texas Residents Charged with Federal Drug and Gun ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that ELIBERTO GUAJARDO (“GUAJARDO”), age 37, of San Juan, TX., and BRICE STRAIN (“STRAIN”),age 43, of Houston, TX, were charged in a four-count indictment with violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and Federal Gun Control Act.
GUAJARDO and STRAIN were indicted in Count 1 for Conspiracy to Distribute, and Possess with Intent to Distribute, Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1),841(b)(1)(A), and 846. If convicted of Count 1, the defendants face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years up to life imprisonment; a fine of up to $10 Million; and at least five years of supervised release.
GUAJARDO and STRAIN were indicted in Count 2 for Distribution of Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. If convicted of Count 2, the defendants face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years up to life imprisonment; a fine of up to $10 Million; and at least five years of supervised release.
STRAIN was indicted in Count 3 for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). If convicted of Count 3, STRAIN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years up to life imprisonment; a fine of up to $10 Million; and at least five years of supervised release.
STRAIN was also indicted in Count 4 for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code Section 924(c)(1)(A). If convicted of Count 4, STRAIN faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00 and up to five years supervised release.
According to court documents, beginning on an unknown date, but at least by June 2025, and continuing to on or about January 27, 2026, the defendants GUAJARDO and STRAIN allegedly conspired to distribute, possess with intent to distribute five (5) kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine. Additionally, according to court documents, on or about January 27, 2026, STRAIN allegedly possessed a firearm, a Glock Model G43, nine-millimeter semi-automatic handgun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The defendants also face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count for which they are charged.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and assisted by the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Briana N. Williams of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
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Chinese Graduate Student Charged with Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced today that Chinese national, JIAXIN TIAN (“TIAN”), age 29, of New Orleans, was indicted on February 6, 2026, for Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1). If convicted, TIAN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
The case against TIAN began with an undercover online investigation initiated by the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office (“PRCSO”) that was searching for individuals who were sharing Child Sex Abuse Material (“CSAM”) on the internet. The PRCSO investigation led them to a subject in New Orleans resulting in the PRCSO notifying the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (“LBI”) of their findings.
According to court documents, on December 12, 2025, agents with the LBI and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (“HSI”) executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in New Orleans. During the search, agents recovered an MSI laptop computer, Apple I-Phone, Huawei cell phone, and various other electronic storage devices, in TIAN’s bedroom. TIAN admitted to the agents that he had downloaded images and videos of prepubescent CSAM. Thereafter, LBI and HSI located images and videos depicting the victimization of children on TIAN’s computer. Although TIAN was initially arrested on state child pornography charges, through a partnership between state and federal authorities, the U.S. Attorney’s Office is now prosecuting TIAN federally.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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.
An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.
U.S. Attorney’s Office, FBI, and HSI Announce creation of Regional Homeland Security Task Force to Combat Violent Crime and Transnational Organized CrimeRead the Press Release
New Orleans - Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) New Orleans Field Office, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans, announced the outcome of a major violent crime abatement operation leading up to the Mardi Gras Season, Operation NOLA Safe. Additionally, the FBI and HSI introduced the creation of the new Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF). The HSTF, whose reach is both national and regional, is purposed with interrupting the illegal trafficking of dangerous drugs and human beings, eliminating Cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs), and stopping firearms trafficking, all of which pose clear and present threats to the homeland.
Operation NOLA Safe is a comprehensive, multi-pronged, and data driven law enforcement initiative designed to reduce violent crime in the Greater New Orleans area. This initiative brings together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to strategically align efforts and deploy targeted enforcement resources where they are most needed and effective. To date Operation NOLA Safe has resulted in 175 arrests, and the seizure of 114 firearms, 20.367 kg of cocaine, 1.063 kg of fentanyl, 102.006 kg of marijuana, 41,909 tapentadol pills and other quantities of illegal narcotics and prescription medications. We anticipate the operation will result in long-term, follow-on investigations.
The HSTF's mission is to eliminate criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and TCOs throughout the United States; dismantle cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks; end the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking, with particular focus on offenses involving children; and ensure the use of all available law enforcement tools to faithfully enforce the laws of the United States.
HSTF establishes permanent multi-agency teams, comprised of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement resources, that work collectively on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to identify, investigate, and prosecute transnational organizations and individuals engaged in violations of federal law. The specific assignment of the HSTF Districts of Louisiana Group is to identify and target Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) and Foreign Terrorist Organizations (FTOs) involved in cross border crime including drug trafficking, money laundering, human trafficking, alien smuggling, weapons trafficking, and/or other related violations of federal investigative interest within Louisiana.
“Today’s law enforcement operation announcements are, at their core, about one thing … public safety,” said U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. “Safety for all of us, as we work to support and protect our families, as well as to celebrate the uniquely rich culture we enjoy in Southeast Louisiana, of which Mardi Gras is an integral part. The mission of all of us behind this microphone today is the same; to enforce the laws of the land and to protect the public that we are proud to serve.”
“We’re getting the job done with intelligence – surveillance – and leads that we’re getting from the community,” said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp. “Our agents and task force officers are using their collective knowledge and expertise to stop criminal activity in its tracks. These aren’t just investigations or statistics for us. We eat, sleep, and breathe violent crime. We are committed to making New Orleans one of the safest places in the country.”
“HSI is proud to co-lead the new Homeland Security Task Force and Operation NOLA Safe with the FBI, partnering with our state, local, and federal partners to help ensure public safety. We are committed to combating transnational crime, crimes of exploitation, and other crimes impacting our communities. As part of our overall commitment, through partnerships and specialized expertise, HSI dismantles criminal networks, ensuring that offenders are brought to justice and victims receive the support they deserve”, said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright.
“ATF’s core mission and purpose are to have impact in preventing, reducing, and solving violent crime to support public safety,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “This operation represents a new level of coordination, focus, and determination in our collective fight against violent crime.”
“The safety and security of Postal Service employees is core to the mission of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and we will work aggressively to bring to justice those who commit violent crimes against our employees,” said Shameka Jackson, Inspector in Charge of the Houston Division. “Today’s press conference is the culmination of exceptional teamwork between postal inspectors and all our state, local, and federal partners. We extend our appreciation to all involved in making this initiative a success.”
“It’s no secret that the Kenner Police Department fosters and is enriched by our relationships on the local, state and federal levels”, said Chief Keith Conley. “By working collaboratively, we can cross multiple jurisdictions and truly amplify our ability to reduce and solve violent crime”.
Operation NOLA SAFE Participating Agencies
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- U.S. Homeland Security Investigations
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- U.S. Marshals Service
- United States Postal Inspection Service
- USAO, EDLA
- Louisiana National Guard
- Louisiana State Police
- Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office
- Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office
- Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office
- St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office
- St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office
- New Orleans Police Department
- Kenner Police Department
- Gretna Police Department
- Slidell Police Department
HSTF New Orleans Participating Agencies
- U.S. Homeland Security Investigations
- Federal Bureau of Investigation
- Drug Enforcement Administration
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection-Office of Field Operations
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection-U.S. Border Patrol
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection-Air and Marine Operations
- U.S. Marshals Service
- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives
- Internal Revenue Service
- U.S. Coast Guard
- United States Postal Inspection Service
- United States Secret Service
- Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Enforcement and Removal Operations
On January 20, 2025, President Trump issued an Executive Order entitled "Protecting the American People Against Invasion," which included the creation of the Homeland Security Task Force. This “Task Force” which is co-led by the FBI and ICE-HSI, consists of intelligence-driven, multi-agency teams that coordinate law enforcement efforts to identify, investigate and prosecute threats to our homeland. These threats include illegal drug and firearm trafficking, sex trafficking, human smuggling, and criminal activity by dangerous Cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations.
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Defendant Pleads Guilty for His Role in International Human and Drug Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A defendant pleaded guilty today for his role in a scheme to illegally smuggle Honduran nationals and cocaine into the United States.
According to court documents, Olvin Javier Velasquez-Maldonado, 40, of Honduras, conspired with at least six others to bring Honduran nationals and cocaine from Honduras to the United States. In February 2022, Maldonado and others attempted to illegally bring more than 20 Honduran nationals and approximately 24 kilograms of cocaine from Utila, Honduras, to Cocodrie, Louisiana, aboard the M/V Pop, a sportfishing vessel co-owned by co-conspirator Carl Allison. Many of the aliens paid up to $20,000 to Allison or his co-conspirators to be smuggled into the United States.
At some point during the voyage in February 2022, the M/V Pop developed engine trouble. Allison and others chartered a boat to bring fuel to the disabled vessel so that it could complete its journey to the United States. Before the chartered boat reached the disabled vessel, the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted the vessel off the coast of Louisiana and towed it to shore. After the vessel was towed to Jean Lafitte Harbor, a search of the vessel discovered approximately 24 kilograms of cocaine in a hidden compartment under a mattress in the captain’s sleeping quarters. Maldonado packaged the cocaine and his fingerprints were found under the packaging.
Maldonado was extradited to the United States from Honduras on April 9, 2025. Maldonado pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. He faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Three additional co-conspirators have also pleaded guilty and were sentenced for their roles in the scheme. Lead defendant Carl Allison, of Pittsburgh, and Darrel Martinez, of Honduras, pleaded guilty to the same charges as Villeda. Lenord Cooper, also of Honduras, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to aid and assist aliens to enter the United States unlawfully and attempting to bring aliens to the U.S. for commercial advantage and private financial gain. Two other co-conspirators, Hennessy Devon Cooper Zelaya and Rudy Jackson Hernandez, both from Honduras, were convicted after trial of conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain and attempting to bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Wright of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.
The investigation and charges are supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/ HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 435 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 385 U.S. convictions; more than 330 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
The HSI Houma, Louisiana Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the HSI Pittsburgh Field Office, HSI Atlanta Field Office and Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, Louisiana State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, North Huntington Township Police and Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance. The Criminal Division’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training in Honduras also provided assistance.
Deputy Chief Rami Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Assaulting Postal Carrier with a Deadly WeaponRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – GILBERT DARBY (“DARBY”), age 48, a resident of New Orleans, was indicted on January 30, 2026, for assaulting a federal officer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 111(a)(1) and (b); discharging a firearm during a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(iii); and being a felon in possession of ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to the indictment, on or about January 12, 2026, DARBY assaulted a United States Postal Carrier of the United States Postal Service during the performance of his official duties. During the assault, DARBY discharged a deadly weapon.
If convicted of the assault count, DARBY could receive up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
If convicted of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence count, DARBY could receive a mandatory minimum of ten (10) years imprisonment and a maximum of life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to a maximum of 3 years supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
If convicted of the felon in possession of ammunition count, DARBY could receive up to 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
United States Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Postal Inspectors and the New Orleans Police Department for investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul J. Hubbell, I.V. of the Violent Crime Unit.
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Tangipahoa Man Guilty of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA –GARRETT MCCLAIN JR.(“MCCLAIN”), age 24, of Tangipahoa Parish, pled guilty on January 29, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Barry Ashe, to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), §841(b)(1)(A), and § 841(b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Judge Ashe scheduled sentencing for May 7, 2026. At sentencing, MCCLAIN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five (5) years of supervised release.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least June 26, 2025, MCCLAIN, and other individuals, conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and methamphetamine throughout the Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, and Washington Parishes region. Law enforcement officers attempted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by MCCLAIN after he was seen leaving a residence in Tickfaw, Louisiana. MCCLAIN led officers on a high-speed pursuit before fleeing his vehicle on foot. Ultimately, he was arrested and a backpack in his possession was seized and found to contain 226 grams of pure methamphetamine, 336 grams of marijuana, and 77 grams of fentanyl.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, 22nd JDC District Attorney’s Office, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana National Guard. FORT was also assisted by the Louisiana State Police, Bogalusa Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Being a Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KYLE ARMSTRONG, age 23, of New Orleans, was indicted on January 29, 2026, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. If convicted, ARMSTRONG faces a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.
According to the indictment, on July 19, 2025, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, ARMSTRONG possessed a Canik Model TP9 SF, nine-millimeter handgun, knowing that he had been previously convicted on November 8, 2022 of felonies including, Theft or Receipt of Stolen Mail Matter, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1708, and Unlawful Possession of Postal Key, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1704.
U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This case is being investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Being Felon in Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – HAVEN PATTERSON (“PATTERSON”), age 43, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter on January 29, 2026, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Chief Judge Vitter sentenced PATTERSON to 48 months imprisonment to be followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court records, on February 27, 2025, PATTERSON intentionally possessed a loaded 40 caliber semi-automatic handgun and a loaded .380 caliber semi-automatic handgun. PATTERSON is prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior Louisiana State conviction.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chandra Menon of the of the Public Integrity Unit.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Lafourche Parish Resident Guilty of Cocaine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – JOHN PAUL GAGE JR., (“GAGE JR.”) age 43, of Des Allemands, Louisiana, pled guilty on January 27, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C. §841(a)(1), §841(b)(1)(A), §841(b)(1)(C), and §846, as well as two counts of illegal use of communications facility, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C. §843(b) and Title 18, U.S.C. §2, announced the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Judge Long scheduled sentencing for April 28, 2026.
At sentencing, GAGE JR. faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years, and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five (5) years of supervised release as to the conspiracy count. For the two phone counts, he faces up to 4 years imprisonment, up to $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years supervised release following imprisonment. As to all counts, he also faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least June 5, 2024, GAGE JR. conspired with several individuals to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, cocaine and methamphetamine throughout the Lafourche and Terrebonne Parish region of the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy involved obtaining narcotics from Houston, Texas and transporting the narcotics to Thibodaux, Louisiana. The conspiracy was carried out through wire and electronic communications, and the use of multiple vehicles. On numerous occasions, GAGE JR. used his cell phone to further this conspiracy and distributed cocaine and methamphetamine to numerous customers in Thibodaux, Louisiana. GAGE JR. worked with Linez Green to distribute methamphetamine to customers and also had Yolanda Tillman pay others to help further this conspiracy by transporting drugs. Both Green and Tillman have also previously pled guilty in this case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at http://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
The United States Attorney’s Office praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, the Thibodaux Police Department, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
Jefferson Parish Man Indicted for Mail TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DEVIN HUTTON (“HUTTON”), of Kenner, Louisiana, was indicted on January 29, 2026, for theft of mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. According to the indictment, HUTTON stole mail from mailboxes at an apartment complex in Metairie, Louisiana.
If convicted, HUTTON faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years of imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.00. A mandatory special assessment fee of $100 also applies.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle 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 Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Christine M. Calogero of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Georgia Residents Sentenced in Multi-Million Dollar Romance ScamRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – On January 28, 2026, U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced KENNETH G. AKPIEYI, a/k/a “Phillip Anderson,” (“AKPIEYI”) age 45, of Marietta, Georgia, to 25 years in prison, and EMUOBOSAN EMMANUELLA HALL, (“HALL”), age 45, of Atlanta, Georgia, to 8 years in prison, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. The sentencings of AKPIEYI and HALL stemmed from their participation in a years-long romance scam that victimized more than 30 women across the country. AKPIEYI was convicted after a four-day jury trial in July 2025 for conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. HALL previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
According to the evidence presented at trial, AKPIEYI played a key role in a conspiratorial scheme where the conspirators represented themselves as romantic partners to their, mostly female, victims. The conspirators often claimed to be generals, philanthropists, or entrepreneurs who lived outside the United States and met their victims on Facebook, Instagram, and similar social media platforms. They began their scheme by gaining the trust of the victims. They then asked the victims to move their conversations to WhatsApp or another encrypted platform. Thereafter, the conspirators fostered a romantic relationship with their victims, who they then asked to send money for fraudulent reasons, such as charitable causes or assistance for sick family members
Evidence at trial showed that AKPIEYI received victim funds at his residence in Marietta, using the alias “Phillip Anderson." AKPIEYI also used his company, KGA Autobrokers, LLC, to funnel money to other bank accounts, often using accounts at different banks to obscure the movement of victim money. On one occasion, AKPIEYI deposited two checks totaling $300,000 from the same victim at two different banks in the Marietta area on the same day, even though both checks were written to KGA Autobrokers. Frequently, victim funds landed in foreign bank accounts in countries including China and the United Arab Emirates. Nine women who were victimized by this scheme testified at trial to total losses of over $3 million.
For conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, Judge Milazzo sentenced AKPIEYI to 100 months in prison, and three years of supervised release. For conspiracy to commit money laundering, AKPIEYI was sentenced to 100 months in prison, and three years of supervised release. For his conviction for mail fraud, AKPIEYI was sentenced to 100 months in prison, and three years of supervised release. The Court ordered AKPIEYI to serve each term of imprisonment consecutively, for a total sentence of 300 months in prison, in addition to payment of a $300 mandatory special assessment fee. In total, AKPIEYI was found to be responsible for victim losses in excess of $3.5 million.
HALL pleaded guilty in February 2025. According to court documents, AKPIEYI and HALL were among the organizers of a company, Le Beau Monde LLC, which they used to further their romance scam. HALL would deposit victim funds into accounts held in the name of her company and then transfer those funds to accounts at other financial institutions, including foreign banks. HALL admitted to responsibility for $851,207.00 in losses to victims of this scheme.
For conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, HALL was sentenced to 96 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. For conspiracy to commit money laundering, HALL was sentenced to 96 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. HALL’s terms of imprisonment were ordered to be served concurrently. HALL was found to be responsible for losses to victims in the amount of $851,207.00.
Judge Milazzo ordered AKPIEYI and HALL to pay victim restitution, which would be determined at a hearing within 90 days.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the FBI New Orleans Field Office in investigating this matter. U.S. Attorney Courcelle also extended his thanks to the FBI Atlanta Field Office and the Cobb County, GA, Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne of the Financial Crimes Unit handled the prosecution along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Sarver, now serving with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana.
Slidell Chiropractor Sentenced for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – JOHN DENNIS MICHAEL PEYROUX (“PEYROUX”), age 58, of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced on January 26, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk for conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1347 and 1349, in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare for over-the-counter (“OTC”) COVID-19 test kits that were not requested or otherwise ineligible for reimbursement, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, starting in November 2022, PEYROUX conspired with others to purchase Medicare beneficiary information, including names, Medicare identification numbers, and clearly fabricated recordings of individuals posing as beneficiaries and “requesting” OTC COVID-19 test kits. PEYROUX used that information to bill Medicare through his chiropractic clinic for test kits. On several occasions, PEYROUX billed for beneficiaries who were already deceased, or were in hospice or inpatient care and therefore ineligible to receive OTC COVID-19 tests paid for by Medicare. PEYROUX then misappropriated the credentials of a former nurse practitioner that worked for him and falsely listed the nurse practitioner as the referring provider on fraudulent claims, even though the employee did not treat the beneficiaries or order the tests. In total, in around six months, PEYROUX allegedly billed Medicare approximately $3.3 million in false and fraudulent claims for OTC COVID-19 test kits through his clinic, for which Medicare reimbursed approximately $3.2 million. Under the terms of the plea agreement, PEYROUX agreed to pay over $3.2 million in restitution to Medicare. The government also forfeited over $1 million seized from PEYROUX’s bank accounts.
Judge Africk sentenced PEYROUX to one year and one day in prison, $3,212,761.44 in restitution, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment. PEYROUX’s brother, Steven D. Peyroux, recently pled guilty to his own role in the scheme and is scheduled for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter on May 14, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, United States Secret Service, and the United States Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, of the Financial Crimes Unit and Health Care Fraud Coordinator, and Assistant Chief Justin Woodard and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters, of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, are in charge of the prosecution.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of 8 strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
Eastern District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects over $900,000,000 in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2025Read the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana (“USAO”) collected $898,444,168.50 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year (“FY”) 2025. Of this amount, $27,361,565.95 was collected in criminal actions and $871,082,602.55 was collected in civil actions, through the efforts of the Office’s Monetary Penalties and Recovery Unit (MPRU).
Further, the MPRU, as detailed below, also collected $3,700,536.80 in forfeited assets.
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department of Justice’s (“Department”) litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States, as well as criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the Department’s Crime Victims Fund, that distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and assistance programs.
In addition to those amounts, the MPRU, working with partner agencies and divisions, also separately forfeited $3,700,536.80 in assets and 200 firearms connected to criminal activity in FY 2025. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department’s Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
Representative examples of the MPRU’s collection and forfeiture efforts include:
- In April 2025, the USAO recovered $868,965,517.00 from BP Exploration & Production Inc. that was imposed as a result of the 2010 Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
- The MPRU collected approximately $15 million in fines and restitution on behalf of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) and First National Bank of Pennsylvania following a guilty plea from a corporate entity, Murex Management, LLC, for violations of 18 U.S.C.§§ 1005, and 2, as it relates to a fraudulent transaction with a financial institution and aiding and abetting.
- From October 2024 to April 2025, the MPRU collected approximately $4.7 million in restitution on behalf of Medicare from the sale of defendant Shiva Akula’s healthcare agencies, following the filing of Writs of Execution after Akula was found guilty at trial of healthcare fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1347.
- As part of the investigation and prosecution of defendant Joseph West, Jr., the MPRU successfully seized and forfeited $162,597.27 in fraud proceeds tied to the defendant’s wire-fraud conspiracy.
- In connection with a narcotics investigation, the MPRU identified and forfeited real property connected to the drug-trafficking activities of defendant, Curtis Williamson, Jr., effectively depriving him of the proceeds and instrumentalities of his crime.
“These statistics demonstrate the steadfast commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana to seek financial restitution for victims of civil or criminal wrongdoing. Our office achieves such financial justice through the aggressive collection of civil judgments, through criminal fines and restitution, through the seizure of criminal proceeds, as well as through the forfeiture of firearms used to commit crimes” said U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. “In accordance with our mission to protect the public, our Monetary Penalties and Recovery Unit will continue, not only to hold accountable those who have profited from their crimes, but also to take guns out of the hands of those who used them to victimize others.”
U.S. Attorney Courcelle thanks Asset Forfeiture Assistant United States Attorney Alexandra Giavotella, Financial Litigation Assistant United States Attorney Churita Hansell, as well as the Office’s outstanding support professionals Jerrilyn A. Dufauchard, Laquana Bates, Christina Garcia, Danielle Smith-Graham, Daishawn Smith, and David Vigier for their hard work and dedication to the pursuit of justice.
Former Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office Employee and Slidell Resident Guilty of Theft and Bribery Conspiracy Concerning Program Receiving Federal FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that KENNETH LAWSON (“LAWSON”), age 39, a resident of New Orleans, and AREION BANKS (“BANKS”), age 33, a resident of Slidell, pled guilty today before United States District Judge Lance M. Africk to conspiracy to commit theft and bribery concerning a program receiving federal funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371, 666(a)(1)(A), and 666(a)(1)(B).
According to court documents, on or about August 10, 2023, the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) awarded the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) a $3.907 million Byrne Discretionary Grant entitled “Technology, Equipment, and Programming Improvements to Support People in Custody and Streamline Reentry” (“DOJ grant”). The purpose of the grant was, in part, to “aid in supporting the health and wellness of people in custody.” Grant funding was available to OPSO until the specified grant performance period end date of April 30, 2025.
LAWSON was employed by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) as Grants Manager, in OPSO’s Grants Department, between about August 2022 and November 29, 2024. In that capacity, LAWSON possessed the ability to request grant payments from grant originators and to issue checks from OPSO to companies acting as subgrantees under grants received by OPSO.
LAWSON met BANKS in about March 2024. Shortly thereafter, LAWSON and BANKS devised a scheme in which LAWSON would exploit his position at OPSO to steal checks made out to subgrantees and convert them to cash. LAWSON agreed to accept a portion of the resulting cash in exchange for stealing checks. On one such occasion, on or about August 12, 2024, BANKS paid LAWSON approximately $5,900 after LAWSON successfully diverted approximately $15,000 from OPSO, without authorization, by exploiting LAWSON’s position with OPSO. In total, LAWSON and BANKS diverted, and attempted to divert, funds from OPSO in this manner on at least four occasions totaling more than $45,000, and BANKS made one payment to LAWSON.
Additionally, on about July 30, 2024, LAWSON incorporated an entity entitled “Williams James Assoc. LLC.” (“Williams James”) with the State of Louisiana and thereafter controlled and served as its registered agent and managing member. On the same day, he opened a business checking account at Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Co. (“Gulf Coast”) in the name of Williams James. Despite Williams James having no relationship with, or providing services to or on behalf of, OPSO, LAWSON in his professional capacity with OPSO, engaged in a digital transaction, requesting that the Department of Justice draw down a portion of the DOJ grant, without authorization, all designed for his personal benefit. Specifically, on or about July 30, 2024, LAWSON stole approximately $7,000 from OPSO by causing the deposit of a $7,000 OPSO check into the Williams James account. On or about August 30, 2024, LAWSON also caused approximately $75,000 from OPSO to be deposited in the Williams James account.
On or about November 13, 2024, LAWSON again attempted to obtain funds, through misappropriation and embezzlement, from the DOJ grant by directing DOJ to send $100,000 of the grant funds to the Williams James account without the knowledge or authorization of his OPSO supervisors. After a bank representative requested that LAWSON identify an OPSO representative who could verify that OPSO intended to issue such a significant sum, LAWSON and BANKS agreed that BANKS would contact Gulf Coast and pose falsely as the OPSO employee who had approved the transaction. In exchange for conducting this telephonic ruse, BANKS would receive a portion of the ill-gotten proceeds. After LAWSON instructed BANKS on what to say to Gulf Coast, BANKS contacted Gulf Coast, falsely claimed to be the OPSO employee, and told a Gulf Coast representative that OPSO had approved the transaction when, in fact, OPSO was unaware of, and had not approved, the transaction.
LAWSON and BANKS, individually, face up to five years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing before Judge Africk has been scheduled for May 13, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. U.S. Attorney Courcelle also expressed appreciation for the support provided by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.
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Eastern District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle Recognizes National Human Trafficking Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
New Orleans – Today the Eastern District of Louisiana (EDLA) observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and joins the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) in reaffirming the administration’s commitment to combating all forms of human trafficking and protecting victims and survivors. Human Trafficking Prevention Month presents an opportunity for DHS and DOJ, through Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), to intensify operational efforts, raise public awareness, and strengthen partnerships across federal, state, and local agencies to disrupt trafficking networks, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure traffickers are brought to justice.
“This Department of Justice is working tirelessly alongside our partners to dismantle human trafficking networks, help survivors, and protect vulnerable populations from being exploited,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under this administration we have seen an increase in human trafficking prosecutions, and during Human Trafficking Prevention Month we reaffirm our commitment to prosecuting traffickers and encourage Americans to report instances of human trafficking in their communities.”
“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, President Trump is taking the fight directly to human trafficking networks and disrupting their modern-day slave trade while seizing their assets and arresting their kingpins and foot soldiers. The American people should not have to live in fear of cartels, gang bangers, and foreign terrorists preying upon the most vulnerable among us,” the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said in a statement. “The Homeland Security Task Force is the largest coordinated campaign against transnational criminal organizations in U.S. history, and I’m proud to co-lead it with Attorney General Bondi.”
“During Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the FBI reiterates our work with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and national victim-based advocacy groups in joint task forces to protect our communities across the country,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The horrifying reach of human trafficking spreads far and wide. Homeland Security Task Forces are fighting back to disrupt these perilous networks and put a stop to that reach. The FBI will continue our investigations and bring justice to those exploited by human traffickers.
“Human trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on society’s most vulnerable members,” said U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. “Although these crimes typically operate in the shadows, human trafficking can also occur in plain sight. Sadly, it often goes undetected and unreported because victims live in fear of physical abuse, threats, extortion, and other forms of intimidation. Our office, along with a committed team of federal, state, and local law enforcement, supported by engaged community partners, will continue to identify, investigate, and prosecute perpetrators of this insidious crime, and hold them accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
In January 2025, “Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. Section 6 of this order directed the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to jointly establish HSTFs in every state nationwide. The HSTF objective is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) throughout the United States; dismantle cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks; end the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking, with a particular focus on such offenses involving children; and ensure the use of all available law enforcement tools to faithfully execute the immigration laws of the United States.
Since January 20, 2025, the Eastern District of Louisiana has had the following achievements:
- On December 10, 2025, following a three-day trial led by Human Trafficking Coordinator Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni, a federal jury convicted a 37-year-old New Orleans schoolteacher of Sex Trafficking a sixteen-year-old girl, and of Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Prostitution.
- On August 13, 2025, a federal grand jury indicted two adult males with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a fifteen-year-old girl, interstate transportation of a minor for unlawful sexual activity, and interstate transportation in aid of racketeering enterprises.
- On May 15, 2025, Human Trafficking Coordinator Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni charged two women in a Bill of Information for their roles in trafficking a fifteen-year-old girl from Texas to Kenner, Louisiana for commercial sex. AUSA Carboni secured guilty pleas from both defendants.
- On February 11, 2025, a federal judge sentenced a 25-year-old man to 22.5 years in prison for his role in sex trafficking three minors and two adults through violent beatings and death threats.
- On May 28, 2025, a federal judge sentenced a 28-year-old man to seventeen years in prison, for sex trafficking a seventeen-year-old victim to New Orleans, Louisiana; Jackson, Mississippi; and Houston, Texas, and then boasting about it on social media.
- On March 12, 2025, a federal judge sentenced a 29-year-old man to eighteen years in prison for sex trafficking a fourteen-year-old girl from Memphis, Tennessee to New Orleans, Louisiana, advertising online her availability for sex, and lying to the victim’s mother about the girl’s whereabouts.
In January 2026, DHS and DOJ are surging resources to fight and raise awareness about human trafficking, including:
- Identifying ongoing investigations and prioritizing featured operations across 45 federal locations and 10 state locations with an emphasis on border states.
- Coordinating with FBI Human Trafficking Squads and multi-agency Human Trafficking Task Forces to conduct victim recovery.
- Partnering with AMTRAK and FAMS to increase law enforcement resources and distribute posters with QR codes for reporting human trafficking in all station bathrooms and trains.
- Running advertisements related to $250 million recovery from Backpage to distribute to victims and additional victim restitution efforts by DOL-OIG.
- Organizing Human Trafficking seminars and outreach events with DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking at high schools and colleges to highlight the role of HSTFs in addressing human trafficking.
On August 25, 2025, HSTF officially launched its effort to protect the Homeland with a September Surge encompassing 400 operations nationwide. In just 43 days, HSTF nationwide operations resulted in 3,266 arrests and seizures including:
- 1,041 Sinaloa members,
- 856 Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (“CJNG”) members,
- 641 MS-13 members,
- 456 Tren de Aragua members,
- 1,067 weapons
- More than $3,250,000 in currency
- Approximately 91 metric tons of narcotics
Tickfaw Man Guilty of Distribution of Kilograms of FentanylRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – LARRY G. TURNER, (TURNER), age 41, of Tangipahoa Parish, pled guilty on January 15, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Barry W Ashe to Conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, more than 400 grams of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); §841(b)(1)(A), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
Judge Ashe scheduled sentencing for April 9, 2026. At sentencing, TURNER faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five (5) years of supervised release. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least June 26, 2025, TURNER and several other individuals conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, multiple kilograms of fentanyl throughout the Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, and Washington Parishes region of the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy mainly revolved around TURNER’s residence in Tickfaw, Louisiana. The execution of a federal search warrant at TURNER’s residence led to the recovery of over five (5) kilograms of fentanyl in counterfeit pill form, along with multiple firearms.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, 22nd JDC District Attorney’s Office, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana National Guard. FORT was also assisted by the Louisiana State Police, Bogalusa Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
St. John the Baptist and Jefferson Parish Residents Guilty of Fentanyl Conspiracy and DistributionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JESSICA PORTWAY, age 42, of St. John the Baptist Parish, RACHEL PORTWAY, age 23 of Jefferson Parish, and TYLER SALADINO (“SALADINO”), age 25, of Jefferson Parish, pled guilty before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, to an indictment charging them with drug conspiracy, drug distribution and possession with intent to distribute drugs, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. JESSICA PORTWAY pled guilty on January 7, 2026; and RACHEL PORTWAY and SALADINO pled guilty on January 21, 2026.
All three defendants were charged in Count 1 of the indictment with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. All three defendants were also charged in Count 2 with distribution of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. Count 3 charged RACHEL PORTWAY and SALADINO with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Count 4 charged JESSICA PORTWAY with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(C).
According to court documents, in August 2023, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office was investigating an overdose death in Jefferson Parish. The investigation revealed that SALADINO, RACHEL PORTWAY, JESSICA PORTWAY, and others. conspired to distribute fentanyl in the Eastern District of Louisiana. As part of the conspiracy, SALADINO and RACHEL PORTWAY sold pills containing fentanyl to the victim in Jefferson Parish. The investigation further revealed that RACHEL PORTWAY had obtained the pills from JESSICA PORTWAY in the weeks leading up to the transaction, and that JESSICA PORTWAY had received the pills from another individual from California.
A search warrant was executed on SALADINO and RACHEL PORTWAY’S shared residence, and additional pills containing fentanyl were recovered. A search warrant executed on JESSICA PORTWAY’S residence in LaPlace, Louisiana by law enforcement yielded 26 doses of LSD, a quantity of methamphetamine, and a quantity of fentanyl.
The defendants face up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release for Count 1. As to Count 2, the defendants face up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to Count 3, SALADINO and RACHEL PORTWAY face up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release. As to Count 4, JESSICA PORTWAY faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years and up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and up to five years of supervised release.
The defendants, individually, also face payment of a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.
Sentencing for JESSICA PORTWAY is set for April 8, 2026, and sentencing in this matter for RACHEL PORTWAY and TYLER SALADINO is scheduled for April 22, 2026.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration – Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Briana Williams and Andre Jones of the Narcotics Unit.
Laplace Woman Guilty of Cares Act FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that TANYANEEKA POWELL (“POWELL”), age 38, of Laplace, LA, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to a two-count bill of information that charged her with making, and assisting in the making, of false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
According to court records, Count One charged POWELL with making false statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA) on or about April 17, 2021, in order to fraudulently obtain a $19,997.00 federally funded pandemic-related relief Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan for herself. Count Two alleged that, on or about June 2, 2022, POWELL aided and abetted in the making of false statements to the SBA by helping prepare a false PPP loan application for another person, that resulted in a loan of $19,999.00.
Sentencing in this matter will occur on April 28, 2026. For each individual charged count, POWELL faces up to five years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (a member of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee) and the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
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Honduran National Guilty of Illegal Reentry of a Removed AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MIGUEL ANGEL LOPEZ-MEJIA (“LOPEZ-MEJIA”), age 34, pled guilty on January 15, 2026, to illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to the charging document, LOPEZ-MEJIA was found in the United States on October 16, 2025, having reentered the United States, without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on August 18, 2008.
LOPEZ-MEJIA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, followed by up to one (1) year of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this case. Special Assistant United States Attorney Frederick Veters, Jr., of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Honduran Man Charged with Re-Entry of Removed AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CARLOS ALBERTO ESCOBAR-LOZA (“ESCOBAR-LOZA”), age 47, a native of Honduras, was charged on January 21, 2026, by bill of information with re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to the charging document, the defendant was found in the United States on December 26, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on July 2, 2012.
ESCOBAR-LOZA faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 for re-entry of a removed alien.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Hammond Man Guilty of Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – KENYARIE GUZMAN (“GUZMAN”), age 30, of Hammond, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo on January 14, 2026, to distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) (Count 1). GUZMAN also pled guilty to distribution of forty grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) (Count 2), as well as possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) (Count 3), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, in 2024, the Hammond Police Department learned that GUZMAN was distributing narcotics in Hammond and Pontchatoula, Louisiana. On February 27, 2025, under the direction of the Hammond Police Department (HPD), a person GUZMAN believed to be a legitimate buyer, purchased 8.39 grams of heroin and fentanyl from GUZMAN at a residence in Pontchatoula. On March 11, 2025, under the direction of the HPD, the confidential source purchased 43.01 grams of fentanyl and heroin from GUZMAN. After the two purchases, law enforcement executed a search warrant at GUZMAN’S residence and seized 15.61 grams of heroin and fentanyl.
For Counts 1 and 3, GUZMAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of at least 3 years. For Count 2, GUZMAN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years, a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and term of supervised release of at least 4 years. GUZMAN also faces a mandatory special assessment fee of $300.00.
This case is being investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigations, and the Hammond Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
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Georgia Chiropractor Convicted of Healthcare FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS,LOUISIANA –United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that STEVEN D. PEYROUX (“PEYROUX”), age 56, of Canton, Georgia, pled guilty on January 15, 2026 to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1347 and 1349, in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare millions of dollars for over-the-counter (“OTC”) COVID-19 tests that were neither requested nor eligible for reimbursement.
According to court documents, PEYROUX, a chiropractor, conspired with others to pay and receive kickbacks in exchange for Medicare beneficiary information nationwide, including names, Medicare identification numbers, and fabricated recordings of individuals posing as beneficiaries and requesting OTC COVID-19 tests, which they used to bill Medicare for OTC COVID-19 tests that were not requested. In an attempt to avoid Medicare scrutiny, PEYROUX and co-conspirators solicited multiple providers to join the scheme, who they directed to enter into sham agreements and make false statements in response to Medicare audits, to conceal the misconduct. Under the terms of PEYROUX’s plea agreement, PEYROUX agreed to over $6.5 million in restitution owed to Medicare.
United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter set sentencing for May 14, 2026.
At sentencing, the maximum penalty PEYROUX may receive is ten years of imprisonment, followed by up to three years of supervised release. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under 18 U.S.C. § 3571, or both. PEYROUX also faces a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, of the Financial Crimes Unit and Health Care Fraud Coordinator, and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters, of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute over 5 Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA. – LAMONT WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 50, of New Orleans, was indicted on January 15, 2026, for possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
If convicted, WILLIAMS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release.
According to the indictment, on or about July 4, 2025, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, WILLIAMS, did knowingly and intentionally possess with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is being investigated by the Louisiana State Police and Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
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Guatemalan Citizen and Convicted Felon Guilty of Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced today that FEDERICO MENDEZ-FRANCISCO a/k/a “JORGE SANTOS ARROYO,” a/k/a “JORGE A. GORDILLO,” a/k/a “FEDERICO MENDEZ,” a/k/a “FREDERICO MENDEZ,” a/k/a “FEDERICO MENDEZ FRANCISCO,” (“MENDEZ-FRANCISCO”), age 40, a native of Guatemala, pled guilty to re-entry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and 1326(b)(1).
According to court documents, on May 15, 2024, MENDEZ-FRANCISCO pled guilty to Domestic Abuse-Child under 13 Present, a felony, in the 24th Judicial District Court Parish of Jefferson. The United States government removed MENDEZ-FRANCISCO from the United States on July 3, 2024. Law enforcement authorities later located MENDEZ-FRANCISCO, an illegal alien, in Jefferson Parish on May 2, 2025. MENDEZ-FRANCISCO had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter the United States.
United States District Judge Brandon S. Long set sentencing for April 14, 2026. At sentencing, MENDEZ-FRANCISCO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (“ICE-ERO”) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is prosecuting the matter.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Defendant Sentenced for His Role in International Human and Drug Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A defendant convicted in a scheme to illegally smuggle Honduran nationals and cocaine into the United States was sentenced today to 47 months in prison.
According to court documents, Josue Alexander Flores Villeda (Villeda), 38, of Honduras, conspired with at least six others to bring Honduran nationals and cocaine from Honduras to the United States. Over the course of approximately three years, Villeda and his co-conspirators smuggled at least 15 migrants into the United States on each voyage. In February 2022, Villeda and others attempted to illegally bring more than 20 Honduran nationals and approximately 24 kilograms of cocaine from Utila, Honduras, to Cocodrie, Louisiana, aboard the M/V Pop, a sportfishing vessel co-owned by co-conspirator Carl Allison. Many of the aliens paid up to $20,000 to Villeda or his co-conspirators to be smuggled into the United States. At some point during the voyage in February 2022, the M/V Pop developed engine trouble. Villeda and others chartered a boat to bring fuel to the disabled vessel so that it could complete its journey to the United States. Before the chartered boat reached the disabled vessel, the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted the vessel off the coast of Louisiana and towed it to shore.
Villeda pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for financial gain and conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride.
Three additional co-conspirators have also pleaded guilty and were sentenced for their roles in the scheme. Lead defendant Carl Allison of Pittsburgh and Darrel Martinez of Honduras pleaded guilty to the same charges as Villeda. Lenord Cooper, also of Honduras, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to aid and assist aliens to enter the United States unlawfully and attempting to bring aliens to the U.S. for commercial advantage and private financial gain. Two other co-conspirators, Hennessy Devon Cooper Zelaya and Rudy Jackson Hernandez, both from Honduras, were convicted after trial of conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain and attempting to bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain. A sixth man, Honduran national Olvin Javier Velasquez Maldonado, was extradited from Honduras in April 2025 and is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Maldonado’s trial is scheduled for February 2026.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Wright of the Immigrations and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.
The investigation and charges are supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/ HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 435 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 385 U.S. convictions; more than 330 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
The HSI Houma, Louisiana Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the HSI Pittsburgh Field Office, HSI Atlanta Field Office and Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, Louisiana State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, North Huntington Township Police and Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance including securing the arrest and extradition from Honduras of Olvin Javier Velasquez Maldonado. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance. The Criminal Division’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training in Honduras also provided assistance.
Deputy Chief Rami Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.
New Orleans Man Sentenced for Destruction of MailRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that PJ WHITAKER (“WHITAKER”), age 36, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 7, 2026 to one year of probation by U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry. WHITAKER previously pleaded guilty to two counts of destruction of mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703.
According to court documents, WHITAKER, while employed as a Postal Service employee, unlawfully opened packages, intended to be conveyed by mail, that had come into his possession while he worked on a Small Parcel and Bundle Sorter.
The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Christine Calogero of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
Metairie Man Sentenced for Possessing Materials Involving Sexual Exploitation of Minors and Violating Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that ROBERT ANTHONY MARSH, JR. (“MARSH”), age 60, of Metairie, La. was sentenced on January 13, 2026, for Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(4)(B) and (a)(2), and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
According to court documents, on December 19, 2024, MARSH’s home was searched by state law enforcement officials and agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations. At the time of this search, MARSH was on supervised release for a 2014 state conviction for Pornography Involving Juveniles. On December 19, 2024, following the search of his home, MARSH was arrested by Louisiana State Probation and Parole for possession of a Model 922 H&R Arms Co. firearm by a prohibited person and possession of child pornography. Thereafter, MARSH was transferred from state to federal custody in connection with this federal investigation.
MARSH was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 14, 2025, and on August 26, 2025, MARSH pled guilty in federal court to knowingly possessing over 21 videos depicting the sexual victimization of minors and to knowingly possessing a firearm as a prohibited person.
On January 13, 2026, United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion sentenced MARSH to ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by ten (10) years of supervised release, sex offender registration, and a $200.00 mandatory special assessment fee.
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.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Jefferson Parish Police Department; and the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, Probation and Parole. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.
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Honduran Man Indicted for Illegal Reentry of a Removed AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that OSCAR FRANCISCO AVILA-NORALES (“NORALES”), age 45, was indicted on January 9, 2026, for illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the indictment, NORALES was found in the United States on December 10, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on September 30, 2011.
If convicted, NORALES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, followed by up to one (1) year of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this case. Special Assistant United States Attorney Frederick Veters, Jr., of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Honduran Man Indicted for Illegal Reentry of a Removed AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that DARWIN NECTALI MORADEL-VELASQUEZ (“VELASQUEZ”), age 40, was indicted on January 9, 2026, for illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the indictment, VELASQUEZ was found in the United States on December 31, 2025, having reentered the United States, without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on October 11, 2016.
If convicted, VELASQUEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, followed by up to one (1) year of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this case. Special Assistant United States Attorney Frederick Veters, Jr., of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.
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Guatemalan National Charged with Reentry of Deported AlienRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that LUCAS TINOCO-TIERES ("TINOCO-TIERES"), age 33, a native of Guatemala, was charged via bill of information on December 23, 2025, with reentry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to court documents, TINOCO-TIERES was apprehended in Orleans Parish on December 3, 2025. The defendant, an illegal alien, has no legal authorization to reside in the United States. Immigration records show TINOCO-TIERES was previously removed by federal authorities on March 2, 2002.
If convicted, TINOCO-TIERES faces up to two years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Customs Enforcement Border Protection in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.
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El Salvadoran National Sentenced for Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – EDGAR YOVANI PEREZ-GUTIERREZ (“PEREZ-Gutierrez”), 40, was sentenced on January 8, 2026, to 12 months and 1 day imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, after previously pleading guilty to being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(5)(A) and 924(a)(8), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, on or about April 10, 2025, PEREZ-GUTIERREZ, an individual unlawfully present in the United States, was found in possession of a Glock handgun. He was arrested by the New Orleans Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations officers for violating immigration laws.
This investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigations, the Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
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Cuban Man Guilty of Federal Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – YAIDEL PLACIDO SALVADOR, (“PLACIDO”) age 39, a New Orleans resident, pled guilty on January 7, 2026, before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to two counts of a superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine (Count 1), and possession with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine (Count 3), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
According to court documents, PLACIDO, and other co-conspirators, distributed multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine within the Eastern District of Louisiana.
As to both counts individually, PLACIDO faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years up to a maximum term of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $200.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office, and assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, the Kenner Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.