Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - A resident of Orleans Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States with regard to tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
According to court documents, Carlanda Allegra Isaac worked for Pelican Income Tax and Bookkeeping Services LLC, located in Bridge City and Kenner, Louisiana, and then later at another tax preparation business called Taxes by J.A.D.A., which was located in New Orleans. Isaac and others conspired to defraud the United States by falsifying client tax returns to include false income, withholding, education credits, in order to fraudulently inflate the clients’ tax refunds. Isaac charged a fee for preparing these returns, which was often deducted from the client’s refund.
When sentenced, Isaac faces a maximum sentence of five years, three years of supervised release, restitution, and other monetary penalties.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division for its work in investigating this case.
The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Lauren Castaldi, Department of Justice Tax Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice.
Tax Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
A resident of Orleans Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States with regard to tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
According to court documents, Carlanda Allegra Isaac worked for Pelican Income Tax and Bookkeeping Services LLC, located in Bridge City and Kenner, Louisiana, and then later at another tax preparation business called Taxes by J.A.D.A., which was located in New Orleans. Isaac and others conspired to defraud the United States by falsifying client tax returns to include false income, withholding, education credits, in order to fraudulently inflate the clients’ tax refunds. Isaac charged a fee for preparing these returns, which was often deducted from the client’s refund.
When sentenced, Isaac faces a maximum sentence of five years, three years of supervised release, restitution, and other monetary penalties.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division for its work in investigating this case.
The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Lauren Castaldi, Department of Justice Tax Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice.
Former City of New Orleans Building Inspector Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that KEVIN RICHARDSON age 56, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Susie Morgan, to one count of violating Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1952(a)(3) and 2, use of an interstate facility with intent to carry on unlawful activity.
According to the court documents, RICHARDSON was employed as a building inspector for the City of New Orleans and utilized the internet-based City of New Orleans’ LAMA system to alter and/or delete city documents and submit material information. He solicited and accepted approximately $65,000 in bribe payments from individuals seeking favorable inspection reports and certificates of completion for properties that did not comply with the city and state building codes and for properties that had not been inspected. He also paid bribe money to a City of New Orleans permit analyst for the issuance of permits without proper documentation and plan review.
RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of not more than $250,000, three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee. He is scheduled to be sentenced on February 4, 2020.
This matter was handled by the City of New Orleans Office of Inspector General, Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Tracey N. Knight is prosecuting the matter.
New Orleans Tax Preparer Indicted for Fraudulent Tax ReturnsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that TRISH CHRISTOPHER, age 35, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, was charged on October 24, 2019 in one-count Indictment for aiding and assisting in the preparation of false federal tax returns, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2).
According to court documents, CHRISTOPHER owned and operated C.C. Tax Service, located in New Orleans, Louisiana. In order to falsely inflate her clients’ tax refunds, CHRISTOPHER prepared and caused to be prepared at least 36 individual income tax returns that included false or fictitious Schedule A itemized deductions.
If convicted, the defendant faces up to three years of imprisonment and a possible $100,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division, for its work in investigating this case. U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh.
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LaPlace Man Pleads Guilty to Falsifying Documentation Related to SBA Disaster LoanRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that KEITH CRAIG (“CRAIG”), age 58, of LaPlace, pled guilty on October 22, 2019 to falsifying documents related to a federal Small Business Administration (SBA) loan, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001 before United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry.
According to court documents, the defendant applied for an SBA loan after Hurricane Isaac impacted Louisiana in 2012. CRAIG owned a residence in LaPlace, Louisiana and applied for and received approximately $160,000 SBA loan proceeds to repair damages to his residence allegedly caused by Hurricane Isaac. In support of the SBA loan, CRAIG submitted fraudulent documentation and statements related to his annual income and the repairs performed on his LaPlace residence.
The Court set sentencing in this matter for January 28, 2020. CRAIG faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a maximum $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Office of Inspector General for the Small Business Administration on investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the case.
Tangipahoa Parish Man Sentenced on Federal Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that JERRY PEA, age 43, a resident of Hammond, Louisiana, was sentenced on October 23, 2019 to serve a total of 138 months in federal prison for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act.
PEA and his co-defendant, James Jackson, were indicted by the Federal Grand Jury back on July 12, 2018. This indictment was the result of a drug investigation that was led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Hammond Police Department.
Defendant James Jackson pled guilty as charged and was sentenced to serve 73 months in federal prison back on June 26, 2019.
Defendant PEA was sentenced to serve 78 months for participating in a conspiracy to distribute both heroin and crack cocaine. He was also sentenced to serve an additional 60 months for possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. His total sentence was 138 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release once he is released from prison.
Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu is in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican Man Guilty of Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that MANUEL LIRA-RIVERA, age 35, a native of Mexico, pleaded guilty October 23, 2019 to illegally using a Social Security number in order to obtain employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
According to court documents, LIRA-RIVERA submitted an application to obtain employment with Company “A.” During the application process, he presented a fraudulent United States Social Security card in the name of R.L.A. (a male) which contained the Social Security number of A.E.E. (a female) ending in 6757, which he represented to be his own. An employee suspected that the Social Security card was fraudulent and law enforcement was contacted. LIRA-RIVERA admitted that his real name was not R.L.A. and that the Social Security number ending in 6757 did not belong to him.
LIRA-RIVERA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. United States District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing for December 18, 2019.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of United States Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and Social Security Administration agents in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
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Mandeville Nurse Charged with Conspiracy to Alter or Falsify Records in a Federal InvestigationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that SUZANNE C. MAY, age 61, of Mandeville was charged October 22, 2019 by a Bill of Information with conspiracy to alter or falsify records in connection with a federal investigation, namely, a Medicare audit of a hospice facility located in New Orleans, identified in court documents as Company 1.
According to court documents, MAY was a registered nurse in the State of Louisiana and served as the administrator of Company 1. In 2015, Medicare audited Company 1 and concluded that Company 1 did not have the proper patient documentation to justify Company 1’s level of billing for hospice services. As a result, Medicare reversed all the claims for hospice services under review in that audit, which amounted to $383,107.26. In connection with that audit, Medicare sent an education letter to MAY regarding what was required of Company 1 in order to bill for hospice services.
In August 2017, Medicare performed another audit of Company 1 and requested patient documentation for 99 beneficiaries for whom Company 1 submitted claims for purportedly providing hospice care services. MAY was in charge of gathering the documents requested by the August 2017 audit. After reviewing Company 1’s files for these beneficiaries, MAY understood that Company 1 did not have the required records to justify Company 1’s billings to Medicare for purported hospice care services for the claims under review.
According to court documents, between August 2017 and October 2017, MAY and other employees of Company 1, altered, amended, and falsified patient records to hide the fact that Company 1 lacked required medical records to justify bills submitted to Medicare for purported hospice services for the beneficiaries at issue in the audit. Court documents detail an instance where MAY placed whiteout on one patient record and created a note on that record indicating that she treated that patient as a nurse in November 2014, when she had not done so. MAY caused all these falsified patient records to be submitted to Medicare in response to the August 2017 audit so that Company 1 would pass the Medicare audit. Despite the falsifications, Medicare still determined that Company 1’s patient records were still largely deficient.
If convicted, MAY faces a possible maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years supervised release in addition to a $100 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their work investigating the case.
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
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Five Indicted in Insurance Fraud Scheme Involving a Staged AccidentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today the Indictment of DAMIAN K. LABEAUD (“LABEAUD”), age 47, of New Orleans and LUCINDA THOMAS (“THOMAS”), age 63, MARY WADE (“WADE”), age 55, JUDY WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 59, and DASHONTAE YOUNG (“YOUNG”), age 25, all of Houma, Louisiana. These five defendants were charged in a six-count federal indictment with one (1) count of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371 and five (5) counts of Wire Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of five (5) years for Count 1 and twenty (20) years as to Counts 2-6. Upon their release from prison, each defendant can be placed on a term of supervised release up to five (5) years and fined up to $250,000.00 per count.
According to the Indictment, on June 6, 2017, THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG drove from Houma, LA, to meet with LABEAUD for the purpose of staging an automobile accident in order to obtain money through fraud. After their meeting, THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG agreed to allow LABEAUD to drive THOMAS’ 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicle. The defendants then drove around the vicinity of Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road of New Orleans until they located a 2017 Freightliner tractor-trailer operated by an Arkansas trucking company. At approximately 12:30 P.M., LABEAUD intentionally collided with the tractor-trailer. LABEAUD then exited THOMAS’ vehicle and instructed THOMAS to get behind the wheel of THOMAS’ Avalanche to make it appear that THOMAS was driving the vehicle at the time of the staged accident.
THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG contacted the New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) and falsely reported that THOMAS had been the driver of the Avalanche and that the traitor-trailer had struck her vehicle. LABEAUD then returned to the scene and also made false statements to the NOPD that he had witnessed the accident and that the driver of the tractor-trailer had been at fault.
According to the Indictment, before and after the staged accident, LABEAUD contacted Attorney A and arranged a meeting with THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG at a fast food restaurant on Chef Menteur Highway. It is further alleged in the Indictment that Attorney A paid LABEAUD $7,500.00 on the day of the staged accident. Attorney A then demanded approximately $1,000,000.00 per plaintiff in settlement for THOMAS, WADE, and WILLIAMS. Attorney A then filed two lawsuits in the Civil District Court (“CDC”) for the Parish of Orleans. Both of the lawsuits filed in CDC by Attorney A were removed to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. The Indictment alleges that THOMAS, WADE, and WILLIAMS each provided false testimony in various depositions taken in conjunction with the lawsuits filed by Attorney A.
Ultimately, but only after a year of pursuing their fraudulent lawsuits, did THOMAS, WADE, and WILLIAMS settle their cases for $7,500.00 each. Each of these five defendants are charged with substantive counts of Wire Fraud based on settlement payments issued by the victim trucking company.
THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG were ordered to appear for an initial appearance and arraignment on this Indictment. LABEAUD was arrested today by special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation after the indictment was returned by the Grand Jury.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit, Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Rivera, Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh, and Trial Attorney Jared Hasten of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Fraud Section, Health Care Fraud Unit.
Lebanese National Charged with Being Illegal Alien in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that KAMAL AL JAWHARI, age 28, a native of Lebanon, was charged Friday, October 18, 2019 in a two-count indictment with illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A).
According to the Indictment, on or about October 3, 2019, JAWHARI, an alien present illegally in the United States, was found in possession of a Taurus 9mm pistol and a Winchester 12 gauge shotgun.
If convicted, AL JAWHARI faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Strasser 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 Strasser praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
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October 26 Is Prescription Drug Take Back DayRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser wants to encourage the public to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) 17th National Prescription Drug Takeback Day on Saturday, October 26, 2019. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs and will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at thousands of collection sites around the country, including several here in the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States continue to be alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs. The majority of prescription drug abusers say they get their drugs free from friends and family, including from the home medicine cabinet. Take Back Day is a unique opportunity for Americans to protect their homes and medicine cabinets from theft and abuse.
For the first time, DEA will now accept vaping devices and cartridges at any of its drop off locations during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. It is important to note that DEA cannot accept devices containing lithium ion batteries. If batteries cannot be removed prior to drop-off, DEA encourages individuals to consult with stores that recycle lithium ion batteries.
“DEA’s National Drug Take Back Initiative is one of the most important tools in combating the prescription drug abuse epidemic, stated U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. “Not only does this program prevent unwanted or expired prescription drugs from flooding our communities and landing in the wrong hands, it protects our environment by offering a safe alternative disposal method.”
“Prescription drugs often end up in the wrong hands, feeding an epidemic that kills more Americans than car accidents. DEA’s Take Back Initiative provides citizens an easy and safe way to dispose of unused and unwanted prescription medications. This year, we are taking it a step further by accepting vaping devices and cartridges as we work with our federal partners to combat this emerging public health threat to the nation’s youth,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley.
Over the past 10 years, DEA has collected a total of nearly 11 million pounds (more than 5,400 tons) of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription medications through its Take Back Day events. This weekend, approximately 6,000 collection sites will be manned by nearly 5,000 partner law enforcement agencies. The service is free and anonymous.
In the New Orleans Field Division, the following amounts were collected last April: Louisiana – 7,046 pounds; Mississippi – 3,753 pounds; Alabama – 6,800 pounds; and Arkansas – 28,073 pounds.
For more information or to locate updated collection sites near you, please go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator where you can search by zip code, city, or state.
DEA Take Back Day PSA: https://youtu.be/KH5lF8gzm9s
Florida Man Indicted for Violating Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that on October 3, 2019, KENNIE SANTOS-PAYANO, age 24, a resident of Kissimmee, Florida, was indicted by the Federal Grand Jury in a one count indictment, charging him with possession with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride.
On September 25, 2019, a Louisiana State Police Trooper conducted a traffic stop in Madisonville, St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, on Interstate 12 eastbound on a vehicle bearing a Florida license plate. The stop was based on a traffic violation. The trooper identified the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle as SANTOS-PAYANO.
Shortly after the traffic stop, troopers deployed a trained and qualified K-9 drug detection dog, and the dog performed a free air sniff test on the exterior of SANTOS-PAYANO’s vehicle. The K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 9.34 kilograms of a white powdery substance that tested positive for the presence of cocaine hydrochloride on the floorboard of the vehicle.
SANTOS-PAYANO, if convicted, faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Strasser 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 Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare is in charge of the prosecution.
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Slidell Man Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NATHANIEL LOUIS, age 45, of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced on October 17, 2019 before the Honorable Carl J. Barbier for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to the court records, LOUIS had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and to possession with the intent to distribute heroin. The case resulted from a lengthy Title III wire intercept investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration in which LOUIS and his co-conspirators were captured discussing heroin sales, making sales, and arranging to pay back heroin sources of supply in Chicago. A search warrant at LOUIS’s apartment led to the seizure of approximately ¼ kilogram of heroin.
Judge Barbier sentenced LOUIS to 50 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, where federal probation officers will monitor his behavior.
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for Hancock Whitney Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that on Thursday, October 17, 2019, JOHN L. MURRAY, age 66, was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment by United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon for violating federal law by committing a bank robbery at the Hancock Whitney Bank in New Orleans. Additionally, MURRAY was ordered to pay $500 in restitution, serve (3) years of supervised release and pay a 100.00 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, MURRAY robbed the Hancock Whitney Bank located at 2421 St. Claude Avenue in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 13, 2019. He presented two hand written demand notes to the bank teller and requested five $100 dollar bills in U.S. currency from the bank teller. MURRAY was apprehended on February 17, 2019.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Misuse of Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ALVARO JOSE MEZA-GONZALEZ, (MEZA-GONZALEZ), age 39, pled guilty on October 17, 2019 before United States District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier, to a one-count bill of information charging him with misuse of a Social Security Number, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
According to court documents, MEZA-GONZALEZ, a citizen of Nicaragua, presented a false Social Security card when attending a pre-employment safety class at the Gulf Coast Safety Council in St. Rose, Louisiana. MEZA-GONZALEZ falsely represented that a social security number was assigned to him when in fact, the social security number had been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to another individual.
MEZA-GONZALEZ faces a possible sentence up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 and one (1) year of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. United States District Court Judge Barbier set sentencing for January 23, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, United States Border Patrol and the Office of Inspector General, Social Security Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
Houston Man Charged with Possession of HeroinRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that WILSON ROMERO, age 53, of Katy, Texas, was charged today in a one-count indictment with possession with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).
According to the indictment, on May 6, 2019, ROMERO possessed over 100 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin.
If convicted, ROMERO faces a sentence of between 5 years and 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Louisiana State Police in investigating this case.
An indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Jonathan L. Shih are in charge of the prosecution.
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Madre e hija de Luisiana condenadas por vulnerar los derechos civiles de una mujer discapacitadaRead the Press Release
Raylaine Knope, de 43 años, fue condenada hoy en el Distrito Oriental de Luisiana a 336 meses de cárcel por obtener trabajo y servicios domésticos forzosos y sin paga de D.P., una mujer adulta con discapacidades cognitivas, así como por conspirar a obtener el trabajo forzoso de D.P. y encubrir un delito grave. La hija de Knope, Bridget Lambert, de 22 años, fue condenada a 48 meses de cárcel por conspirar con Knope y otros miembros de su familia a obtener trabajo forzoso de D.P.
«Knope y Lambert conspiraron a coaccionar brutalmente a una víctima vulnerable con discapacidades a trabajar muchas horas en condiciones deplorables y sin compensación monetaria alguna», informó el Fiscal General Auxiliar Eric Dreiband. «El Departamento de Justicia sigue luchando contra la trata de personas por trabajo forzoso, y la condena de hoy refleja el compromiso de la División a buscar la justicia para las víctimas más vulnerables en nuestra sociedad».
«Lambert y Knope participaron en un delito verdaderamente horroroso contra uno de los miembros más susceptibles de nuestra sociedad. Espero que estas condenas aporten un atisbo de justicia a la víctima. Alarmantemente, delitos como este son cada vez más comunes», confirmó Peter G. Strasser, el Fiscal Federal para el Distrito Oriental de Luisiana. «Nuestra oficina, junta con el Departamento de Justicia, está comprometida a buscar la justicia en nombre de toda víctima, incluyendo en nombre de individuos vulnerables como D.P., y seguiremos colaborando con la policía federal, estatal y local para hacer que los autores rindan cuentas de sus delitos».
«Las acciones de las acusadas en este caso fueron crueles e inhumanas. Raylaine Knope y Bridget Lambert maltrataron y abusaron psicológicamente de otro ser humano, un miembro de su familia y a quien debían considerar como un ser querido», declaró Bryan A. Vorndran, el Agente Especial Encargado de la Oficina Local del FBI en Nueva Orleans. «En nuestro carácter como la agencia federal principal encargada de la investigación de alegatos relacionados con vulneraciones de leyes federales de derechos civiles, el FBI seguirá defendiendo los derechos civiles de toda persona, tanto de ciudadanos como de no ciudadanos. Quisiera agradecer a los hombres y mujeres de la Oficina Local del FBI en Nueva Orleans, la Oficina del Sherriff de Tangipahoa, el Departamento de Justicia, la Fiscalía Federal – Distrito Oriental de Luisiana y la Fiscalía del Distrito de Tangipahoa por su enorme esfuerzo en llevar a las acusadas ante la justicia».
El 20 de mayo del 2019, Knope se declaró culpable ante un cargo de conspiración al trabajo forzoso, un cargo de vulneración de trabajo forzoso substantiva y un cargo de encubrimiento de un delito grave. En la audiencia en la que se declaró culpable, Knope admitió que entre el 13 de agosto del 2015 y el 30 de junio del 2016, en Amite, Luisiana, ella conspiró con otros miembros de su familia para obtener de D.P. trabajo y servicios domésticos sin pagar por los mismos, por distintos medios, entre ellos la fuerza, amenazas de fuerza y la restricción física. Knope admitió que obligó a D.P. a vivir encerrada en una jaula en el patio y a realizar tareas domésticas y de jardinería a cambio de comida y agua. Más aún, admitió que ella y sus coconspiradores sometieron a D.P. a abusos físicos rutinarios, amenazas y abusos verbales y psicológicos con el fin de garantizar el cumplimiento continuo de D.P. con las ordenes de la familia. Como ejemplo de estos abusos, la acusada admitió que en una ocasión le obligó a D.P. a consumir las cenizas incineradas de su madre difunta. Knope también admitió que empleó este abuso generalizado para obtener el trabajo forzoso de D.P. y que había ayudado a otro coconspirador a robarle a D.P. sus beneficios federales de discapacidad.
El 27 de septiembre del 2018, Lambert se declaró culpable ante un cargo de conspiración a trabajo forzoso. En la audiencia en la que se declaró culpable, Knope admitió que entre el 13 de agosto del 2015 y el 30 de junio del 2016, en Amite, Luisiana, ella conspiró con otros miembros de su familia, incluyendo a Raylaine Knope, para obtener de D.P. trabajo y servicios domésticos sin pagar por los mismos, por distintos medios, entre ellos la fuerza, amenazas de fuerza y abusos verbales y psicológicos. Más aún, Lambert admitió que, en una ocasión, ella fomentó la conspiración al golpear a D.P. en la cabeza con una tabla de madera, lo que causó a D.P. sangrar de la cabeza, y en otra ocasión fomentó la conspiración al restringir el brazo de D.P. para que otro coconspirador pudiera castigar a D.P. quemándola con un mechero.
El caso fue investigado por la Oficina Local del FBI en Nueva Orleans, Luisiana, la Oficina del Sheriff de la Parroquia de Tangipahoa y la Fiscalía de Distrito de la Parroquia de Tangipahoa. El caso ha sido enjuiciado por la Abogada de Litigios Risa Berkower, de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia, la Fiscal Federal Auxiliar Julia Evans, de la Fiscalía Federal para el Distrito Oriental de Luisiana, y la Fiscalía de Distrito de la Parroquia de Tangipahoa.
Louisiana Mother and Daughter Sentenced for Violating Civil Rights of Woman with DisabilitiesRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - Raylaine Knope, 43, was sentenced to 336 months imprisonment today in the Eastern District of Louisiana for obtaining forced, unpaid household labor and services from D.P., an adult woman with cognitive disabilities, as well as for conspiring to obtain D.P.’s forced labor and misprision of a felony. Knope’s daughter, Bridget Lambert, 22, was sentenced to 48 months imprisonment for conspiring with Knope and their other family members to obtain forced labor from D.P.
“Knope and Lambert conspired to brutally coerce a vulnerable victim with disabilities to work long hours in despicable conditions and with no monetary compensation,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. “The Department of Justice continues to combat human trafficking by forced labor and today’s sentencing reflects the Division’s commitment to seeking justice for the most vulnerable victims in our society.”
“Lambert and Knope participated in a truly horrific crime against one of the most susceptible members of our society. I hope that these sentences will bring a measure of justice to the victim. Shockingly, crimes such as this are becoming more common,” said Eastern District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. “Our office, along with DOJ, is committed to seeking justice on behalf of all victims including vulnerable individuals such as D.P., and we will continue to partner with federal, state and local law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.”
“The defendants’ actions in this matter were nothing short of cruel and inhumane. Both Raylaine Knope and Bridget Lambert mistreated and psychologically abused another human being, a family member, and someone who should have been considered a loved one,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan A. Vorndran of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “As the primary federal agency responsible for investigating allegations regarding violations of federal civil rights statutes, the FBI will continue to protect the civil rights of all persons—citizens and non-citizens alike. I applaud the tremendous efforts put forth by the men and women of the FBI New Orleans Field Office, the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office, Department of Justice, the U.S. Attorney’s Office – Eastern District of Louisiana, and Tangipahoa District Attorney’s Office to bring these defendants to justice.”
On May 20, 2019, Knope pleaded guilty to one count of a forced labor conspiracy, one count of a substantive forced labor violation, and one count of misprision of a felony. At her plea hearing, Knope admitted that, between Aug. 13, 2015, and June 30, 2016, in Amite, Louisiana, she conspired with other family members to obtain D.P.’s uncompensated household labor and services through a number of means, including by force, threats of force, and physical restraint. Knope admitted that she forced D.P. to live in a locked backyard cage and to perform housework and yard work in exchange for food and water. She further admitted that she and her co-conspirators subjected D.P. to routine physical abuse, threats, and verbal and psychological abuse designed to ensure D.P.’s continued compliance with the family’s orders. As examples of this abuse, the defendant admitted that she once forced D.P. to eat D.P.’s deceased mother’s cremated ashes. Knope also admitted that she used this overarching abuse to obtain D.P.’s forced labor, and that she helped another co-conspirator steal D.P.’s monthly federal disability benefits.
On Sept. 27, 2018, Lambert pleaded guilty to one count of a forced labor conspiracy. At the plea hearing, Lambert admitted that, between Aug. 13, 2015, and June 30, 2016, in Amite, Louisiana, she conspired with other members of her family, including Raylaine Knope, to obtain D.P.’s uncompensated household labor and services by a number of means, including by force, threats of force, and verbal and psychological abuse. Lambert further admitted that, on one occasion, she advanced the conspiracy by striking D.P. in the head with a wooden board, causing D.P. to bleed from her head, and on another occasion advanced the conspiracy by holding D.P.’s arm in place so that a fellow conspirator could punish D.P. by burning her with a cigarette lighter.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Field Office in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office. The case has been prosecuted by Trial Attorney Risa Berkower of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Assistant United States Attorney Julia Evans of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and by the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office.
Louisiana Mother and Daughter Sentenced for Violating Civil Rights of Woman with DisabilitiesRead the Press Release
Raylaine Knope, 43, was sentenced to 336 months imprisonment today in the Eastern District of Louisiana for obtaining forced, unpaid household labor and services from D.P., an adult woman with cognitive disabilities, as well as for conspiring to obtain D.P.’s forced labor and misprision of a felony. Knope’s daughter, Bridget Lambert, 22, was sentenced to 48 months imprisonment for conspiring with Knope and their other family members to obtain forced labor from D.P.
“Knope and Lambert conspired to brutally coerce a vulnerable victim with disabilities to work long hours in despicable conditions and with no monetary compensation,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. “The Department of Justice continues to combat human trafficking by forced labor and today’s sentencing reflects the Division’s commitment to seeking justice for the most vulnerable victims in our society.”
“Lambert and Knope participated in a truly horrific crime against one of the most susceptible members of our society. I hope that these sentences will bring a measure of justice to the victim. Shockingly, crimes such as this are becoming more common,” said Eastern District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. “Our office, along with DOJ, is committed to seeking justice on behalf of all victims including vulnerable individuals such as D.P., and we will continue to partner with federal, state and local law enforcement to hold perpetrators accountable for their crimes.”
“The defendants’ actions in this matter were nothing short of cruel and inhumane. Both Raylaine Knope and Bridget Lambert mistreated and psychologically abused another human being, a family member, and someone who should have been considered a loved one,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan A. Vorndran of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “As the primary federal agency responsible for investigating allegations regarding violations of federal civil rights statutes, the FBI will continue to protect the civil rights of all persons—citizens and non-citizens alike. I applaud the tremendous efforts put forth by the men and women of the FBI New Orleans Field Office, the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office, Department of Justice, the U.S. Attorney’s Office – Eastern District of Louisiana, and Tangipahoa District Attorney’s Office to bring these defendants to justice.”
On May 20, 2019, Knope pleaded guilty to one count of a forced labor conspiracy, one count of a substantive forced labor violation, and one count of misprision of a felony. At her plea hearing, Knope admitted that, between Aug. 13, 2015, and June 30, 2016, in Amite, Louisiana, she conspired with other family members to obtain D.P.’s uncompensated household labor and services through a number of means, including by force, threats of force, and physical restraint. Knope admitted that she forced D.P. to live in a locked backyard cage and to perform housework and yard work in exchange for food and water. She further admitted that she and her co-conspirators subjected D.P. to routine physical abuse, threats, and verbal and psychological abuse designed to ensure D.P.’s continued compliance with the family’s orders. As examples of this abuse, the defendant admitted that she once forced D.P. to eat D.P.’s deceased mother’s cremated ashes. Knope also admitted that she used this overarching abuse to obtain D.P.’s forced labor, and that she helped another co-conspirator steal D.P.’s monthly federal disability benefits.
On Sept. 27, 2018, Lambert pleaded guilty to one count of a forced labor conspiracy. At the plea hearing, Lambert admitted that, between Aug. 13, 2015, and June 30, 2016, in Amite, Louisiana, she conspired with other members of her family, including Raylaine Knope, to obtain D.P.’s uncompensated household labor and services by a number of means, including by force, threats of force, and verbal and psychological abuse. Lambert further admitted that, on one occasion, she advanced the conspiracy by striking D.P. in the head with a wooden board, causing D.P. to bleed from her head, and on another occasion advanced the conspiracy by holding D.P.’s arm in place so that a fellow conspirator could punish D.P. by burning her with a cigarette lighter.
This case was investigated by the FBI’s Field Office in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office. The case has been prosecuted by Trial Attorney Risa Berkower of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Assistant United States Attorney Julia Evans of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and by the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office.
Westbank Gunman Sentenced to 15 Years for Two Attempted Robberies in Orleans Parish and One Robbery in Jefferson ParishRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –DARRYL HENRY (“HENRY”), age 27, was sentenced on October 9, 2019, for committing three Hobbs Act Robberies and Brandishing a Firearm during a Crime of Violence, announced United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
On August 24, 2018, HENRY entered the Walmart Supercenter at 4001 Behrman Place in Algiers, New Orleans, Louisiana, and passed the teller a demand note and displayed a firearm. The teller was unable to open the safe, and HENRY left the business empty-handed. HENRY then went to the Winn-Dixie Supermarket at 3008 Holiday Drive, in Algiers, New Orleans, Louisiana, and unsuccessfully attempted to rob a clerk at that location. HENRY then drove to the Walmart Neighborhood Market located 3265 Manhattan Boulevard, Harvey, Louisiana, and passed a demand note to a cashier while holding a gun in his right hand. HENRY ultimately fled the store with $6,992.00 in United States currency.
HENRY was sentenced to 180 months by United States District Judge Lance M. Africk. HENRY was also sentenced to a period of five (5) years of supervised release after his term of imprisonment.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the diligent work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Myles Ranier is handling the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads to Violations of Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that BRIAN STEPHENS, age 35, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on October 8, 2019 to possessing firearms after felony convictions.
According to court documents, STEPHENS, a convicted felon, possessed firearms on three instances after being convicted of a felony. On July 16, 2017, STEPHENS was stopped in a vehicle in possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. On October 3, 2018, STEPHENS discarded a stolen firearm during a foot chase with police officers. On December 20, 2018, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at STEPHENS’ home in Metairie and located two firearms, one of which was stolen.
Court documents indicate that, if the District Court finds that STEPHENS’ prior convictions satisfy the Armed Career Criminal Act, 18 United States Code, 924(e), he faces a term of imprisonment of 15 years to life, a fine of $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. If STEPHENS is not sentenced under this statute, he faces a term of imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. U.S. District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter set sentencing for STEPHENS for January 7, 2020 at 1:30 p.m.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Louisiana State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Access Device Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that RYAN CLARK, age 34, of New Orleans, LA, pleaded guilty on October 9, 2019 to conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft (count 1) and aggravated identity theft (count 3) before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk.
According to court documents, the defendant was arrested after an investigation initiated by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service. CLARK and others created and sold fake Louisiana drivers’ licenses with the names and dates of birth of real persons who were victims of identity theft. Using the fake licenses, CLARK facilitated the sale of at least six motor vehicles from several local dealerships. The fraudsters would use the stolen identities and the fake licenses to buy high end used cars. No money was ever paid and the loans went into default.
CLARK is facing up to five years of incarceration for the conspiracy (count 1) and two years consecutive to whatever sentence is imposed for the aggravated identity theft (count 3). Each count can be followed by up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for January 22, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the agencies that contributed to this indictment, which represents a coordinated effort of federal and state law enforcement authorities within the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force. The Task Force includes representatives from the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, Covington Police Department, Hammond Police Department, Kenner Police Department, Louisiana State Police, Mandeville Police Department, Slidell Police Department, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John The Baptist Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. State Department, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. U.S. Attorney Strasser also thanked the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera.
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Mexican National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that OSIEL PEREZ-CORREA, age 30, was charged on October 10, 2019 in a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to the indictment, OSIEL PEREZ-CORREA (“PEREZ”), reentered the United States after he was previously deported on September 14, 2019. If convicted, PEREZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.
U. S. Attorney Strasser 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 Strasser praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
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Federal Felon Charged with Violation of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that a federal grand jury returned a one-count indictment against defendant, TERRELL RICHARDSON, of New Orleans, for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm in violation of 18 U.S.C.§ 922(g)(1) on October 10, 2019. RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, up to $250,000 in fines, up to three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.
The indictment alleges that on or about June 29, 2019, RICHARDSON was in possession of a firearm after having been previously convicted on January 22, 2002 of a federal felony offense.
An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This matter was handled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the case.
Genetic Testing Company and Three Principals Agree to Pay $42.6 Million to Resolve Kickback and Medical Necessity ClaimsRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON - The Justice Department announced today that UTC Laboratories, Inc. (RenRX) has agreed to pay $41.6 million, and its three principals, Tarun Jolly, M.D., Patrick Ridgeway, and Barry Griffith, have agreed to pay $1 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by paying kickbacks in exchange for laboratory referrals for pharmacogenetic testing and for furnishing and billing for tests that were not medically necessary. RenRX, a laboratory company headquartered in New Orleans, Louisiana, also agreed to a twenty-five year period of exclusion from participation in any federal health care program.
“The payment of kickbacks in exchange for medical referrals undermines the integrity of our healthcare system. Today’s settlement reflects the Department of Justice’s commitment to ensuring that taxpayer monies are well spent and not wasted on unnecessary medical testing,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division.
“Healthcare fraud, in any incarnation, hurts patients, honest medical practitioners, and all of the nation’s taxpayers,” said United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana Peter G. Strasser. “The favorable resolution of this False Claims Act matter illustrates the collaborative efforts and firm commitment by our federal partners to use all available remedies, both civil and criminal, to address signs of waste and abuse by providers in our healthcare markets.”
The government alleged that between 2013 and 2017, UTC and its principals offered and paid remuneration to physicians to induce the ordering of pharmacogenetic tests, purportedly in return for their participation in a clinical trial known as the Diagnosing Adverse Drug Reactions Registry (DART), clinical trial identifier NCT01970709. The government also alleged that UTC and its principals offered and paid remuneration, including sales commissions, to entities and individuals as part of the scheme, and furnished pharmacogenetic tests that were not medically necessary and billed the Medicare program.
“The payment of cash and thinly-disguised referral bribes, as contended by the government, resulted in a more than $42 million dollar resolution in this case, said Special Agent in Charge CJ Porter of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Additionally, my agency barred RenRX from receiving any payments from federal health programs for a full 25 years. Genetic testing scams are becoming all too common. OIG has a genetic testing fraud alert here.”
The settlement announced today resolves allegations in six lawsuits pending in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana: United States ex rel. Bergeron v. UTC Labs., LLC, et al., No. 16-15440 (E.D. La.); United States ex rel. McNeil v. Tarun Jolly, UTC Labs., LLC, et al., No. 14-2247 (E.D. La.); United States ex rel. Green & Lawson v. UTC Labs., LLC d/b/a Renaissance RX & Stone Surgical, LLC, No. 15-297 (E.D. La.); United States ex rel. Church v. UTC Labs., LLC d/b/a Renaissance RX, No. 15-877 (E.D. La.); United States ex rel. Outerbridge v. UTC Labs., LLC d/b/a Renaissance RX, No. 15-1445 (E.D. La.). The lawsuits were filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private individuals to sue on behalf of the government for false claims and to share in any recovery. The Act also allows the government to intervene and take over the action, as it did in these cases.
The government’s resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana and the Department of Justice’s Civil Division, in conjunction with the HHS-OIG and the FBI.
The cases are captioned United States ex rel. Bergeron v. UTC Labs., et al., No. 16-15440 (E.D. La.); United States ex rel. Treci McNeil v. Tarun Jolly, UTC Labs., LLC, et al., No. 14-2247 (E.D. La.); United States ex rel. Green & Lawson v. UTC Labs., LLC, et al., No. 15-297 (E.D. La.); United States ex rel. Church v. UTC Labs., LLC, d/b/a Renaissance RX, No. 15-877 (E.D. La.); and United States ex rel. Outerbridge v. UTC Labs., LLC, d/b/a Renaissance RX and Tarun Jolly, No. 15-1445 (E.D. La.). The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. The whistleblower shares to be awarded have not yet been determined.
Man Sentenced for Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that LUIS FELIPE PALAFOX-ALVAREZ (PALAFOX-ALVAREZ), age 25, a native of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to illegally using a Social Security number to obtain employment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced PALAFOX-ALVAREZ, to time served and a $100 special assessment fee. The defendant shall be surrendered to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on or about August 14, 2019, PALAFOX-ALVAREZ presented a false Social Security card when attending a pre-employment safety class at the Gulf Coast Safety Council in St. Rose, Louisiana. PALAFOX-ALVAREZ falsely represented that a social security number was assigned to him when in fact; the social security number had been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to another individual.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, United States Border Patrol and the Office of Inspector General, Social Security Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
Six Mexican Nationals Indicted in Timeshare Telemarketing ScamRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – MARTIN ALONSO ACEVES CUSTODIO, a/k/a Robin Birmingham, a/k/a ALA, age 29, LIZA FLANERY FIERRO, a/k/a LIE, age 33, CLAUDIA ELENA ANTILLON ZAHUITA, a/k/a Julie Batista, a/k/a KLA, age 36, SERGIO LEON KURI, a/k/a “LNK, age 38, JESUS ADRIAN LEDESMA BERNAL, a/k/a JSS, age 31, and JULIO CESAR RIVERA ROJAS, a/k/a JCP, age 32, all residents and citizens of Mexico, were indicted October 3, 2019 by a federal grand jury for one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
The indictment alleges that from at least January 1, 2016, to the present, the above defendants conspired together and with others to commit wire fraud in connection with a telemarketing scheme that targeted and victimized persons in the United States, Canada and South America. As part of the elaborate scheme, the conspirators made unsolicited phone calls to owners of resort timeshare properties to induce them to and pay fees associated with the bogus sale of their property. The defendants misrepresented the existence of a buyer for their timeshare and solicited money from the victims to facilitate the sale. They solicited the timeshare owners to enter into agreements to sell their timeshares and pay for alleged “closing costs” with electronic wire transfers from banking institutions within the United States to Mexican banks. There were no interested buyers, the closings did not occur, and the timeshares were not resold. Instead, the conspirators simply pocketed the advanced fees. Of the U.S. victims, 40 were age 60 and older and the total estimated loss is at least $10,000,000.
The defendants, who are all based in Mexico, operated under the business names Planet Travel and Newport International Investments, and at other times used the following business names: Advance Travel INC, All American Real Estate, American International Investment Group, Bear Claw Travel, Best Investment Services, Champion Properties, Closing Source LLC, Equity Closing Services Group, Global Offshore Services, NSC Holding, Peach Title, Sandia Title, Travel and Acquisitions, Travel Innovations, Travel Plus Acquisitions, Travel Right, and World Travelers, Inc.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum sentence of twenty years of incarceration, a fine of up to $250,000 and three years of supervised release.
This case is the product of an extensive and ongoing investigation by special agents of Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera is prosecuting the case.
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New Orleans Tax Preparer Charged with Filing False IRS ReturnRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – DANIELLE FRANKLIN, age 28, and a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on October 3, 2019 by a federal grand jury for assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent tax return, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
As charged in the indictment, FRANKLIN prepared a false tax return in 2014 for a client of Cutting Edge Income Tax, located on Airline Drive in Metairie, Louisiana. As part of the scheme, FRANKLIN allegedly falsified the return by including fraudulent business losses when in fact the customer had zero losses and expenses.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, FRANKLIN faces a maximum sentence of three years, one year of supervised release, and a $100,000 fine for aiding and assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent tax return.
U.S. Attorney Strasser commended the special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation for their handling of the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward J. Rivera.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – THADDEUS CARTER, age 45, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before the Honorable Carl J. Barbier to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to the court records, CARTER conspired to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin. CARTER admitted to being captured on recorded calls as part of a lengthy Title III wire intercept.
Sentencing is scheduled for January 9, 2020. CARTER faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of at least 5 years up to forty years, a fine of $5,000,000 and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
Mexican Man Sentenced for Illegally Using Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that GREGORIO GALAVIZ-ZAMORA, age 60, a native of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to illegally using a Social Security number in order to obtain employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
United States District Court Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced GALAVIZ-ZAMORA to time served and was required to pay a $100 special assessment fee. The defendant will be surrendered to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, prior to August 14, 2019, GALAVIZ-ZAMORA submitted a fraudulent Form I-9 application in order to obtain employment with a construction company. He attested on the form that he was someone else. He used a fraudulent Social Security card in the name of the other person which also contained that person’s actual Social Security number as verification. In order to finalize employment with that company, he was required to take a safety course at another location on August 14, 2019. He once again provided the fraudulent Social Security card and number as proof of his identity, but an employee suspected the card was fraudulent and alerted Customs and Border Protection. Subsequent record checks confirmed his real identity.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of United States Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, Homeland Security Investigations, and Social Security Administration agents in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
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Man Pleads Guilty to Misuse of Social Security NumberRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that LUIS FELIPE PALAFOX-ALVAREZ (PALAFOX-ALVAREZ), age 25, pled guilty on October 1, 2019 before United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry, to a one-count bill of information charging him with misuse of a Social Security Number, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).
According to court documents, PALAFOX-ALVAREZ, a citizen of Mexico, presented a false Social Security card when attending a pre-employment safety class at the Gulf Coast Safety Council in St. Rose, Louisiana. PALAFOX-ALVAREZ falsely represented that a social security number was assigned to him when, in fact, the social security number had been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to another individual.
PALAFOZ-ALVAREZ faces a possible sentence up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 and one (1) year of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry set sentencing for October 8, 2019.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, United States Border Patrol and the Office of Inspector General, Social Security Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
Amite Man Guilty of Providing False Statements to the Transportation Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that GERMIEL AUSTIN, age 35, a resident of Amite, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to a one-count bill of information charging him with providing a document containing false statements to the Transportation Security Administration (“TSA”).
According to court documents, the Transportation Security Administration (“TSA”) is an agency of the United States government responsible for the issuance of Transportation Worker Identification Credential (“TWIC”) cards. TWIC cards are biometric credentials issued to individuals which allows unescorted access to security-sensitive transportation sectors such as airports, railroads, chemical plants, and maritime ports. TSA ensures that each applicant undergoes a security threat assessment to determine a person’s eligibility. Convictions for certain criminal offenses can either permanently or temporarily disqualify applicants from consideration. Applicants can sometimes be granted a waiver.
On July 25, 2014, AUSTIN composed and faxed a letter in his own name, to the “TSA TWIC Processing Center” explaining the facts surrounding a previous criminal conviction and indicated that he was not a “threat or risk” in an attempt to have a waiver granted. On the same day, AUSTIN faxed a second letter to the “TSA TWIC Processing Center” that falsely claimed to be from his probation officer. The letter falsely indicated that the defendant successfully completed probation and has demonstrated “his intention to maintain a law-abiding lifestyle.” An agent with the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service, later determined that no person having the name used by AUSTIN had ever been employed by his parole office.
AUSTIN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. Sentencing has been set for January 9, 2020.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of United States Department of Homeland Security, Coast Guard Investigative Service agents in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
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West Bank Resident Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DAVID TRAN, age 32, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today by the Honorable Jane Triche Milazzo for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to the court records, TRAN had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring with other individuals to manufacture, possess with the intent to distribute 1,000 or more marijuana plants, 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 100 grams or more of heroin. TRAN also admitted that he possessed large quantities of fentanyl and methamphetamine with the intent to distribute them and that he was manufacturing large quantities of marijuana.
The case resulted from a lengthy Title III wire intercept investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration in which TRAN and his co-conspirators were captured discussing heroin sales, as well as the construction of a large indoor marijuana grow in Bridge City. The calls led the DEA agents to search a warehouse and adjacent residence in Bridge City. During the search, the agents found a large marijuana grow that contained approximately 700 plants in varying stages of growth and equipment sufficient to grow many thousand more plants. Significant work and expense had been put into remodeling the warehouse, including thousands of dollars in lights, cooling systems, and ventilation. The agents also discovered a safe containing a cornucopia of other drugs, including 1,396.2 grams of methamphetamine; 990 grams of MDMA (ecstasy); and 1,175.9 grams of fentanyl, a highly potent synthetic opioid that is fueling the tremendous rise in overdose deaths.
Judge Milazzo sentenced TRAN to 121 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, where federal probation officers will monitor his behavior.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Orleans Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Several other law enforcement agencies, including Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Kenner Police Department, assisted in the search of the warehouse in Bridge City. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.
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Panama National Pleads Guilty ToRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that FELIX ANTONIO SANCHEZ-GOMEZ, age 54, a citizen of the Republic of Panama pleaded guilty on September 26, 2019 to possession of fraudulent immigration documents, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 1546(a).
According to the bill of information, FELIX ANTONIO SANCHEZ-GOMEZ possessed a counterfeit Permanent Resident card.
FELIX ANTONIO SANCHEZ-GOMEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, two years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter set sentencing for November 12, 2019.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
Washington Parish Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BILLY C. PORTER, age 43, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was charged September 6, 2019, in a two-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with distribution of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to the indictment, on April 30, 2019, and again on August 6, 2019, PORTER distributed fifty grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
If convicted, PORTER faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum of forty years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00 and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Bogalusa Police Department of individuals suspected of trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and firearms in the Bogalusa area.
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Two Washington Parish Men Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DERRICK MARK, a/k/a “Dopeman,” age 40, and CHRISTOPHER HARRIS, age 29, both residents of Bogalusa, Louisiana, were charged September 6, 2019, in a five-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with several narcotics offenses, including conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to the indictment, beginning at a time unknown, but prior to April 5, 2019, and continuing until the present, MARK and HARRIS conspired with each other to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. Both MARK and HARRIS are also charged with distribution of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and MARK is charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
If convicted, both MARK and HARRIS face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum of forty years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00 and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted of the firearms offense, MARK faces an additional five years’ imprisonment to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed against him.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Bogalusa Police Department of individuals suspected of trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and firearms in the Bogalusa area.
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
Three Washington Parish Men Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TREVION HARRIS, a/k/a “TRIGGA,” age 22, JONZARRION HARRIS, a/k/a “GEE,” age 19, and DEMARQUIEZ HARRIS, age 24, all residents of Bogalusa, Louisiana, were charged September 6, 2019, in a twelve-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury with several narcotics offenses, including conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.
According to the indictment, beginning at a time unknown, but prior to November 30, 2018, and continuing until the present, TREVION HARRIS, JONZARRION HARRIS, and DEMARQUIEZ HARRIS conspired with each other to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. All three individuals are also charged with distribution of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.
If convicted, all three individuals face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00 and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Bogalusa Police Department of individuals suspected of trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine and firearms in the Bogalusa area.
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.
New Orleans Resident Pleads Guilty in Cocaine-Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that defendant TEKA LAFRANCE, age 48, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on September 25, 2019 to multiple counts of conspiring to distribute and distributing large quantities of cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base. LAFRANCE is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, a maximum life sentence, a possible fine up to $10,000,000, and a period of supervised release of at least five years.
U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman is scheduled to sentence LAFRANCE on December 18, 2019.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office (PPSO), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), Kenner Police Department (KPD), Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and Houston Police Department (HPD) in their investigation of this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon S. Long and Paige O’Hale are in charge of the prosecution.
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Colombians Sentenced for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that JHON ALBEIRO PINEDA JIMENEZ, age 37, and PEDRO ANTONIO JIMENEZ, age 65, both Colombians, were sentenced on September 25, 2019 after previously pleading guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride while upon the high seas on board a vessel subject to the jurisdiction of the United States, under Title 46, United States Code, Sections 70503(a)(1) and 70506(a) and (b), and Title 21, United States Code, Section 960(b)(1)(B)(ii).
According to court documents, PINEDA JIMENEZ and JIMENEZ were arrested by the U.S. Coast Guard while the two were aboard a small fishing vessel southwest of the Panama/Costa Rica border. Hidden aboard the vessel was over 113 kilograms of powder cocaine.
United States District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman sentenced PINEDA JIMENEZ, the captain of the vessel, to 78 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release. Judge Feldman sentenced JIMENEZ to 60 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Coast Guard, the United States Department of Homeland Security, and United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney Brandon S. Long.
Metairie Man Charged with Conspiracy to Distribute OxycodoneRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that a Bill of Information was filed September 24, 2019 against AARON JEFFREY DENN, age 34, of Metairie charging him with conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance.
If convicted, DENN faces a possible maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000 fine as to Count 1 of the Information. He also faces at least three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office for their work investigating the case. U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case is being prosecuted by Jared Hasten of the U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division, Fraud Section.
Laplace Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearm ViolationsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that ANDREW ANDERSON, age 38, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on September 23, 2019 to a three-count Superseding Bill of Information. In Count One, ANDERSON pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a quantity of heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride. In Count Two, ANDERSON pled guilty to possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. In Count Three, ANDERSON pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and ammunitions.
The Honorable District Court Judge Lance Africk will sentence ANDERSON on January 8, 2020. ANDERSON faces a maximum sentence of up to twenty years of imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release not less than three years, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00, as it relates to Count One. For Count Two, ANDERSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed by the court, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release up to five years, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00. As it relates to Count Three, ANDERSON faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release up to three years, and a mandatory assessment fee of $100.00.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (“PSN”), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safe for everyone. PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Embezzlement of Union FundsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARK DOUGLAS, age 72, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on September 17, 2019 to a one-count bill of information for embezzlement of union funds before the Honorable Greg G. Guidry, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. Sentencing is scheduled for January 20, 2019.
According to court documents, between November 11, 2011 and January 17, 2015, DOUGLAS acted as President of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 1101. DOUGLAS was responsible for the local’s grievances with the Domino Sugar Company and running the day to day operations of the union.
Union officers were permitted to file “lost time” claims to be reimbursed for conducting union business. Lost time is generally taken for arbitrations, attorney visits, accountant visits, or negotiations with Domino Sugar Company. During his time as President, DOUGLAS filed fraudulent “lost time” claims with the union, totaling approximately $6,280.91.
DOUGLAS faces 5 years of imprisonment, a $10,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the U.S Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards, in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Supervisor, General Crimes.
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New Orleans Man Sentenced for a Violation of the Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that on Wednesday, September 11, 2019, HERBERT WILLIAMS, age 50, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana was sentenced to serve 57 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release for violating federal law by possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a felony.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McHugh.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Mortgage FraudRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – THEODORE KURZ, age 70, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on September 12, 2019 to mortgage fraud before the Honorable Nannette Jolivette Brown, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. Sentencing has been set for December 12, 2019.
According to court documents, KURZ obtained mortgages for three properties through the State of Louisiana, Division of Administration, Office of Community Development. He then forged mortgage cancellations that he filed with the Orleans Parish Clerk of Court to falsely make it appear that the loans had been satisfied. KURZ then obtained mortgages through a different lender, falsely claiming that there were no outstanding mortgages or liens on the properties.
KURZ faces 30 years of imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Supervisor of General Crimes.
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Texas Man Charged with Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced that JEREMY JASON SHIPMAN, age 30, of Bexar County, Texas, was charged Thursday, September 12, 2019 by grand jury indictment with one count of failure to register as a sex offender under the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).
If convicted, SHIPMAN faces a maximum term of 10 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine. He also faces a term of supervised release of between 5 years and life.
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Marshals Service, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Bexar County Sheriff’s Office in this matter. He also extended his thanks to the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Brothers Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced DUSTIN DINET, age 32, of New Orleans, and STEVEN DINET, age 44, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, who are brothers, for conspiring to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin on Wednesday, September 11, 2019.
The DINETs had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring together to deal crack cocaine and heroin. The DINETs acknowledged making three sales of an ounce of crack each to an undercover source. They also admitted that approximately ¼ kilogram of heroin and $78,000 discovered during the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Marrero belonged to them. DUSTIN DINET, who qualified as a Career Criminal because of prior drug trafficking convictions, was sentenced to 188 months in prison and 4 years of supervised release. STEVEN DINET was ordered to serve 37 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
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New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of Federal Firearms and Narcotics LawsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that DERRICK GROVES, age 22, of New Orleans, has pleaded guilty September 10, 2019 to federal firearms and narcotics violations.
According to court documents, on October 12, 2018 and January 25, 2019, DERRICK GROVES possessed with intent to distribute heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). DERRICK GROVES was also in possession of a firearm on those dates, in violation of Title 18, United States Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).
The Court set sentencing in this matter for December 17, 2019. DERRICK GROVES faces a term of imprisonment of up to 20 years, per count, a fine of up to $1 million, and at least three years of supervised release for the narcotics charges. DERRICK GROVES also faces a minimum term of 5 years up to life imprisonment, to be served consecutively to any other term of imprisonment imposed, a fine of $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release for the firearms violations.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation New Orleans Violent Crimes Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni is in charge of the prosecution.
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Jefferson Parish Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Ketamine which Resulted in the Death of a Teenager whose Body was Found Floating in a Texas BayouRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that LEILANI ASPURIA, age 25, of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to distribute ketamine which resulted in the death of a Slidell, Louisiana teenager. The eighteen year old’s dead body was found floating in a Texas bayou.
As described in court documents, ASPURIA, along with WILLIAM HARRISON FARRIS, age 39, and KACIE DOUCET, age 37, conspired to incapacitate the teenager with drugs so that he could be transported to law enforcement authorities in Texas. ASPURIA, FARRIS, and DOUCET did so in the hope of receiving free drugs from two large scale Texas-based methamphetamine dealers. These dealers, a married couple, had told their New Orleans customers that they wanted the teenager so they would not lose the $6000 bond they had posted for him months earlier.
ASPURIA faces a maximum prison sentence of 10 years, a possible fine of $500,000, and at least 2 years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo set sentencing for ASPURIA on December 11, 2019. FARRIS pleaded guilty to the same charge and will be sentenced on October 23, 2019.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana State Police, Houston Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon S. Long and David Howard Sinkman are in charge of the prosecution.
Brothers Sentenced for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS – United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced DUSTIN DINET, age 32, of New Orleans, and STEVEN DINET, age 44, of Jonesboro, Arkansas, who are brothers, for conspiring to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute 28 grams or more of crack cocaine and 100 grams or more of heroin.
The DINETs had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring together to deal crack cocaine and heroin. The DINETs acknowledged making three sales of an ounce of crack each to an undercover source. They also admitted that approximately ¼ kilogram of heroin and $78,000 discovered during the execution of a search warrant at a residence in Marrero belonged to them. DUSTIN DINET, who qualified as a Career Criminal because of prior drug trafficking convictions, was sentenced to 188 months in prison and 4 years of supervised release. STEVEN DINET was ordered to serve 37 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safe for everyone. Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority. In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
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Mandeville Woman Charged in Indictment for Operating Businesses Selling Anabolic Steroids and Prescription MedicationRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced the September 4, 2019 unsealing of a seven-count Indictment charging NATALIE BARTON, age 41, of Mandeville, Louisiana, with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute anabolic steroids, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(E)(i) and 846 (Count 1); conspiracy to misbrand drugs, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371 (Count 2); distribution of anabolic steroids, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(E)(i), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2 (Counts 3 and 4); and misbranding of prescription drugs, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 331(a) and 333(a)(2), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2 (Counts 6 and 7).
According to the Indictment, NATALIE BARTON and her husband E.B. owned and operated certain websites from which they sold anabolic steroids, including substances sold under the names “Desoxy-T Acetate,” “Celtic Mass,” and “Dienolone Acetate.” For a time, they also operated a brick-and-mortar store in Metairie, Louisiana from which they sold these anabolic steroids. These substances were chemically similar to testosterone or other anabolic steroids, and had pharmacological effects similar to testosterone, including promoting muscle growth. In some cases these substances were sold with provisos indicating that they were not for human consumption or were for research purposes, but those provisos were false, and they were sold with the intent of promoting muscle growth in humans or to cause a pharmacological effect similar to testosterone.
According to the Indictment, NATALIE BARTON and her husband also sold prescription medications through their websites and in their brick-and-mortar store. These prescription drugs were dispensed without valid prescriptions issued by licensed practitioners, and without labels that complied with the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act. Instead, these substances included labels that were misleading, in that they stated that the substances were not for human consumption, which was false. NATALIE BARTON and E.B. were not practitioners licensed by law to administer prescription drugs. Many of the prescription drugs sold are commonly abused in conjunction with the use of anabolic steroids because they either treat negative side effects of anabolic steroids or have complementary effects.
If convicted, NATALIE BARTON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years of imprisonment followed by at least 2 years of supervised release on the anabolic-steroid-related counts, and a maximum term of imprisonment of 3 years followed 1 year of supervised release on the misbranding-related counts.
DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley said, “Those who choose to violate laws designed to ensure the safe and legal dispensation of pharmaceutical drugs will not escape the scrutiny of DEA. This indictment is a direct result of outstanding partnerships with federal, state, and local law enforcement. DEA will continue to pursue those who threaten our communities through the distribution of these potentially dangerous drugs.”
“U.S. consumers rely on the FDA to ensure that the drugs they take are safe, effective and properly labeled,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin D. Green, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations. “We remain committed to pursuing and bringing to justice those who attempt to subvert the regulatory functions of the FDA by distributing unapproved and misbranded drugs.”
“It is extremely important that consumers who use dietary supplements and medications have the expectation of safe products. As part of this indictment alleges, if supplements and medications contain components that are not legally approved, the health of the public is put at risk and the public’s trust violated,” said U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. “Our office, along with our investigative partners, will continue to investigate alleged improprieties and bring to justice those who place our community at risk.”
U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proved beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Food and Drug Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. U.S. Attorney Strasser expressed appreciation for the support provided by the United States Anti-Doping Agency and the Sports Medicine Research and Testing Laboratory. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan Shih is in charge of the prosecution
This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.
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