Eastern District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Child Pornography Charges Filed Against Houma ManRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that REHER MORRIS, age 28, of Houma, was indicted today for crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children.
According to today’s Indictment, beginning at an unknown time to on or about December 8, 2015, MORRIS knowingly downloaded and received images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of minors.
If convicted, MORRIS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five years and a maximum sentence of up to twenty years imprisonment, followed by up to a lifetime term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
U. S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U. S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations’ Cyber Crime Unit in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Fraud Section Chief, Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba.
Three Individuals Plead Guilty in Oxycodone CaseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that WALLACE STOGNER, age 61, of Bogalusa; DANIELLE MEISNER, age 31, of Mandeville; and KAREN SMITH, age 57, of Slidell, pled guilty today to charges relating to illegal distribution of oxycodone pills. Oxycodone is a prescription-only Schedule II controlled substance and a highly addictive and abused opioid drug.
STOGNER pled guilty to two counts of illegal distribution of oxycodone, as charged in an Indictment filed last year, and faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment. MEISNER and SMITH each pled guilty to a Superseding Bill of Information charging conspiracy to obtain controlled substances through misrepresentation and subterfuge, a crime which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 4 years. All three defendants are scheduled for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt on November 9, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Brandishing a Firearm during a Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LONDON CARTER, age 24, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, specifically a bank robbery.
According to court documents, CARTER guarded the door of a Capital One Bank in Metairie during a robbery on August 26, 2011, and pointed a semi-automatic pistol at various customers.
CARTER faces a mandatory minimum of 7 years imprisonment and a maximum term of life imprisonment, along with a $250,000 fine and up to 5 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for December 7, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera, Maria Carboni and Marquest Meeks were in charge of the prosecution.
Abita Springs Man Sentenced for Marijuana OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ALFRED FLINT, JR., age 59, of Abita Springs, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for possession with intent to distribute 27 kilograms of marijuana.
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced FLINT to 3 years of probation and a $100 special assessment fee.
According to court documents, on April 27, 2015, agents from Homeland Security Investigations received information that 2 packages containing 27 kilograms of marijuana were being sent to Abita Springs, Louisiana from Memphis, Tennessee. The packages were originally sent from Mexico and were addressed to Flint Plastering, Inc. On April 29, 2015, an undercover agent made a controlled delivery to a residence owned by FLINT. The agents then served a search warrant and recovered the marijuana as the packages were being opened by another individual in his garage. FLINT stated that he had allowed the other individual to use his address in order to receive the marijuana. FLINT stated that he was paid $500 for each package he received.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, Louisiana State Police, and St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran Man Sentenced for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KEVIN CALIX-TORRES, age 26, a native of Honduras, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey sentenced CALIX to time served, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee. CALIX will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on July 7, 2016, CALIX was found in the United States after having been previously deported from the United States on June 2, 2008.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
Three Cuban Nationals Plead Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Access Device Fraud, Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that three Cuban nationals, all residing in Florida, pled guilty today to one count each of conspiracy to commit access device fraud and aggravated identity theft. Two other defendants have already pled guilty in the case, which charged six defendants in total.
JULIET ESTRADA PEREZ, LUIS RIVERA GARCIA, and JESUS ENRIQUE GONZALES TORRES pled guilty to conspiring among themselves and with others to possessing fifteen or more unauthorized and counterfeit access devices, as well as producing, possessing, and trafficking device-making equipment. According to court records, the defendants traveled from Florida in late July 2015, and agreed to place card skimming devices on gas pumps in the New Orleans area. They also admitted to, among other things, possessing a card encoding machine, a card embossing machine, and a laptop computer containing stolen credit card information. JULIET ESTRADA PEREZ, LUIS RIVERA GARCIA, and JESUS ENRIQUE GONZALES TORRES were arrested in the Southern District of Florida in April 2016 on bond violations, after they were being found in the Florida Strait between Florida and Cuba by the United States Coast Guard, and have been detained since then as flight risks.
On the conspiracy charge, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of not more than five years of imprisonment. Each aggravated identity theft charge carries a mandatory sentence of two years of imprisonment, which must be served consecutively to any other prison sentence. The defendants further face terms of supervised release, fines, and restitution obligations upon conviction.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the United States Secret Service, and Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Hayden Brockett is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Sentenced for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ROGER AGUIRRE-SAGASTUME, age 29, a native of Honduras, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal entry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced AGUIRRE-SAGASTUME to six months imprisonment, one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Following completion of his sentence, AGUIRRE-SAGASTUME will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on March 17, 2016, AGUIRRE-SAGASTUME was found illegally present in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on August 4, 2009.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Nurse Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Receive Illegal KickbacksRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SHEILA HOPKINS, age 63, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to one count of conspiracy to receive illegal kickbacks.
On March 12, 2015, HOPKINS was indicted along with 19 other defendants in a 26-count Indictment charging approximately $30,052,295 in Medicare fraud and the BP fraud.
HOPKINS was a Registered Nurse (RN) at Abide Home Care Services, a home health company operated by owner Lisa Crinel. HOPKINS and other nurses, aides, recruiters and marketers were paid about $150 - $300 for each referral of a Medicare beneficiary to Abide. Abide then fraudulently billed Medicare for medically unnecessary home health services. HOPKINS admitted to receiving a $400 payment for her referral of a Medicare beneficiary to Abide.
HOPKINS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for February 1, 2017.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrice Harris Sullivan, Sharan Lieberman, Hayden Brockett and Andre Lagarde are in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ALBERTO GONZALEZ-MORALES, age 40, a citizen of Mexico, pled guilty today to possession of a handgun by a person illegally present in the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A).
According to the court documents, on or about March 15, 2016, GONZALEZ-MORALES, an alien present illegally in the United States, was found in possession of a firearm.
GONZALEZ-MORALES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000, three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for November 2, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JONATHAN RAMOS-VASQUEZ, age 27, a native of Honduras, pled guilty today to possession of a handgun by a person illegally present in the United States, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A).
According to court documents, on March 21, 2015, deputies from the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office were given information that RAMOS was located at an address in Lafourche Parish. They were given permission to enter the residence and encountered RAMOS in his bedroom. Deputies spotted an Astra model A70, 9mm semi-automatic handgun next to RAMOS on his bed. The handgun had travelled in interstate commerce as it had been manufactured in Spain. RAMOS ultimately admitted that he was in the country illegally and that the handgun belonged to him. RAMOS had previously been deported from the United States on October 26, 2011, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.
RAMOS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, as well as a fine of $250,000. United States District Court Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for November 2, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.
Local Doctor Arrested for Illegally Dispensing Controlled Substances and Threatening to Kill Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced the unsealing of a criminal complaint against SHANNON CHRISTOPHER CEASAR, age 43, a physician who practices in Metairie and resides in New Orleans. On Friday, July 22, 2016, CEASAR was arrested on charges of drug distribution and threatening to murder law enforcement agents. According to court records, CEASAR illegally dispensed and conspired with others to illegally dispense controlled substances, including Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. In addition, based on recorded telephone calls secured by law enforcement, CEASAR was charged with threatening to assault and/or murder federal law enforcement officers with the intent to impede, intimidate, or interfere with such law enforcement officers while engaged in the performance of official duties, or with the intent to retaliate against such law enforcement on account of the performance of official duties.
Some of the threats made against law enforcement officers and the medical board include:
“God help them, I swear to god…I have a f*$&ing arsenal in there enough to supply a small militia, you know I collect guns, I swear to god if they come in there with a warrant I’m going to kill every single one of those sons of bitches.”
“I am very serious…they won’t even be able to have an open casket funeral. There will be nothing left above the adam’s apple.”
“And I’m not sure if the time comes if I’m going to do it right there in the clinic or if I’m going to somehow break into the DEA office in that building by the lake and just f*$&ing blow the place up but somehow a vast majority of the DEA agents in this area will lose their lives if they f*$& with me.”
“Same thing goes for the medical board, that’ll be even sweeter…they are downtown.”
“…New Orleans will be all over the national news again because of me.”
“What I’ll do is make Baton Rouge look like a f*$&ing kindergarten.”
CEASAR made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge Daniel E. Knowles, III on Friday, July 22. At a detention hearing held today before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge Karen Wells Roby, CEASAR was ordered detained.
“As alleged, rather than doing no harm as a physician, Shannon Ceasar illegally dispensed Oxycodone into a community struggling with an epidemic of opioid addiction,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “Then, when the governing medical board and law enforcement dared to challenge his criminality, Ceasar threatened to kill them. This level of disregard for human life, particularly from a physician, is absolutely despicable.”
If convicted of the charges in the criminal complaint, CEASAR will face a maximum of not more than 20 years in prison on the drug charges, pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and 846, and not more than 10 years in prison for threatening to murder a federal agent, pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Section 115(a)(1)(B). CEASAR will also be subject to a fine of not more than $250,000 and a term of supervised release for three years, following any term of imprisonment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services OIG in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Shirin Hakimzadeh and Myles Ranier are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Mail Fraud in Aftermath of BP Oil SpillRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KEVIN RICHARD, age 26, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty yesterday to engaging in mail fraud for his role in submitting a fraudulent application for disaster assistance money in the aftermath of the Deepwater Horizon oil spill.
According to court documents, the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) made disaster assistance money available to individuals and businesses affected by the oil spill resulting from the Deepwater Horizon explosion that occurred on April 20, 2010. The GCCF offered multiple types of claims related to the Deepwater Horizon incident for which it would issue payment. One of the types of claims offered by the GCCF was a “Quick Payment Final Claim,” which provided that a claimant who had received a prior EAP or Interim Payment from GCCF could receive, without further documentation of losses caused by the BP oil spill, a one-time final payment of $5,000 for individuals and $25,000 for businesses. Claimants seeking a Quick Payment were required to submit with their claim form a “Release and Covenant Not to Sue.” To be eligible to receive funds via a Quick Payment Final Claim, an applicant had to previously submit a successful (i.e., paid) initial claim containing proof of costs, damages, and other losses incurred as a result of the oil discharges due to the Deepwater Horizon incident.
On November 3, 2010, RICHARD applied for disaster assistance funds, representing that he worked as a cook for New Orleans Paddlewheels, Inc. at the time of the oil spill. In fact, RICHARD was not employed by New Orleans Paddlewheels, Inc. at all. As a result of this, and other, fraudulent representations, the GCCF sent a check in the amount of $21,000.00 to RICHARD, which he cashed at a Whitney National Bank branch in New Orleans. Subsequently, on January 3, 2011, RICHARD completed, signed, and mailed to the GCCF a Quick Payment Final Claim Form seeking an additional payment of $5,000, which the GCCF issued on January 14, 2011. RICHARD cashed this check on January 18, 2011.
RICHARD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than twenty years, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon set sentencing for October 27, 2016. RICHARD was remanded to the custody of U.S. Marshals following a recent bond revocation.
This case was brought as part of this District’s partnership with the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF), a nationwide initiative to protect available funds and assistance for those victims of both natural and man-made disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and the recent Gulf oil spill. If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, you can contact the NCDF by either calling the hotline at (866) 720-5721, faxing (225) 334-4707, emailing at [email protected] or in writing to National Center for Disaster Fraud, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.
United States Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DARION TINSON, age 34, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today to two counts of an Indictment charging violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act.
According to court documents, during a search of a residence where TINSON was living, agents located approximately two ounces of heroin in a bedroom, as well as a stolen Taurus .45 semi-automatic pistol in close proximity to the suspected heroin. Additionally, agents seized a scale, suspected marijuana, and approximately $2,000.00 in U.S. currency in the nightstand of the master bedroom. TINSON admitted that the heroin and gun were his during post arrest interviews. TINSON pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, and possession a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking.
TINSON faces up to 20 years in prison on the drug trafficking charge, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. The gun charge carries a mandatory minimum additional 5 years in prison that must run consecutive to any other sentence. U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing for October 26, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Indicted for Conspiracy to Alter U.S. Postal Money OrdersRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JARVIS WHEELER, age 28, of New Orleans, was charged today in a one-count Indictment for conspiracy to alter U.S. Postal money orders.
According to the Indictment, WHEELER conspired with others to buy U.S. Postal money orders in small amounts, typically $1.00. The money orders were then sent out of state where they were altered to much higher amounts. WHEELER, working with other conspirators, enlisted individuals to deposit the altered U.S. Postal money orders into local bank accounts. Once the money orders cleared, the funds were withdrawn and split by WHEELER and the co-conspirators.
If convicted, WHEELER faces up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three year of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and $100.00 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Postal Inspector Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that OLVIN CASTILLO-CRUZ, age 34, was charged today 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, CASTILLO-CRUZ reentered the United States after he was previously deported on January 19, 2011.
If convicted, CASTILLO-CRUZ 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 Polite 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 Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Two Nurses Plead Guilty to Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ERICA EDWARDS, age 31, of New Orleans, and JEFF KOON, age 43, of Lockport, each pleaded guilty today to one count of health care fraud.
On April 21, 2016, EDWARDS and KOON were charged along with 12 other defendants in a 31-count superseding indictment charging approximately $30,252,906 in Medicare fraud. According to court documents, EDWARDS and KOON worked as RNs for ABIDE. Their duties included assessing the status of their patients, initiating a plan of care, evaluating patient needs, providing comprehensive nursing care, among other things. KOON and EDWARDS pleaded guilty to fraudulently recertifying patients for home health by recording false changes in medications and exacerbations in medication conditions that did not occur and falsely documented that patients were homebound.
EDWARDS and KOON each face a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for February 1, 2017.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrice Harris Sullivan, Sharan Lieberman, and Hayden Brockett are in charge of the prosecution.
Two Colombian Nationals Plead Guilty to Making False Statements on Visa ApplicationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ALMA DE JESUS MOJICA HERRERA, age 52, and LEONARDO SERRATO POLANIA, age 42, both of Bogota, Colombia, pled guilty today to making false statements on their U.S. Nonimmigrant Online VISA applications.
According to court records, while in Colombia, MOJICA HERRERA and SERRATO POLANIA each completed a U.S. Nonimmigrant Online Visa Application (“Visa Application”) with the U.S. Department of State (“State Department”) and did not answer truthfully questions concerning their travel companions, the persons paying for their trip, and the location of their stay. These Visa Applications were relied upon by federal agencies of the Executive Branch including by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in New Orleans and the U.S. State Department. On September 28, 2015, MOJICA HERRERA and SERRATO POLANIA travelled from Bogota, Columbia and arrived in the United States at the New Orleans International Airport using the VISAs containing materially false statements. On September 29, 2015, MOJICA HERRERA and SERRATO POLANIA were taken into custody by special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”).
MOJICA HERRERA and SERRATO POLANIA each face a maximum term of imprisonment of five years. In addition, both face a fine of $250,000 per count and up to three years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for August 24, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-HSI, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the U.S. Department of State in investigating this matter. Fraud Unit Chief, Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba is in charge of the prosecution.
Thibodaux Man Charged with Hacking ICloud, Facebook, and Email Accounts of over 50 VictimsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRADER YELVERTON, age 24, of Thibodaux, was charged today in a one-count Bill of Information with obtaining unauthorized access to protected computers to acquire information.
According to the Bill of Information, between about 2013 and December 15, 2015, YELVERTON obtained access to the personal Apple iCloud, Facebook, and email accounts of not fewer than fifty victims, many of whom resided within the Eastern District of Louisiana, without their knowledge or authorization. After accessing the accounts, YELVERTON acquired copies of the contents, including personal photographs and other private information. According to the Bill of Information, the collective value of the information YELVERTON obtained without authorization was more than $5,000.
If convicted, YELVERTON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of up to five years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that the Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Bogalusa Man Sentenced for Oxycodone DistributionRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DONALD FONTENOT, age 63, of Bogalusa, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to four counts of selling oxycodone tablets to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration agent. Oxycodone is a prescription-only Schedule II controlled substance and a highly addictive and abused opioid drug.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced the defendant to a term of imprisonment of 24 months, 3 years of supervised release, and a $400 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann was in charge of the prosecution
Former St. Bernard Parish Deputy Pleads Guilty in Darren Sharper MatterRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite and Orleans Parish District Attorney Leon A. Cannizzaro, Jr. announced that BRANDON LICCIARDI, age 31, of Mereaux, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute Schedule IV controlled substances with the intent to commit crimes of violence, including rape, before the Honorable Jane Triche Milazzo, United States District Court Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana.
Pursuant to a plea agreement, the parties stipulated that LICCIARDI would be sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 17 years, to be served concurrently and co-terminously with any sentence he may receive in the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans. The statutory maximum punishment for the offense is twenty years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. LICCIARDI’s plea today was part of a global resolution of the charges against him in federal court and the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans. Sentencing is set for October 13, 2016.
LICCIARDI, a former St. Bernard Parish deputy sheriff admitted that he, along with former New Orleans Saint DARREB SHARPER and ERIK NUNEZ, a former waiter at Morton’s Steak House, distributed controlled substances to unsuspecting women and then had sexual relations with them while they were incapacitated.
Most recently, on July 11, 2016, co-defendant ERIC J. NUNEZ pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances to victims without their knowledge, and with the intent to commit a crime of violent, to wit: sexual battery. Sentencing for NUNEZ is scheduled for October 13, 2016 at 9:30 am.
Previously, on March 22, 2016, co-defendant DARREN SHARPER pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute a Schedule IV Controlled Substance with the intent to commit rape and two counts of Distribution of a Schedule IV Controlled Substance with intent to commit rape; Sentencing for SHARPER is set for August 18, 2016 at 9:30 am.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter and thanked District Attorney Cannizzaro and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their invaluable cooperation. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael E. McMahon, Theodore R. Carter, III, and Brandon Long are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Fraud in Connection with Stolen Credit CardsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CLIFF DURIO, age 25, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to a one-count Indictment charging him with fraud in connection with access devices.
According to court documents, DURIO knowingly and with intent to defraud, possessed numerous counterfeit and unauthorized access devices, including credit cards and gift cards. DURIO was arrested at the New Orleans Airport after TSA screeners, while investigating a suspicious object in his luggage, discovered a bundle of over 500 credit cards. The cards were encoded and embossed with stolen accounts numbers, several of which had reported fraud.
DURIO faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of up to $250,000 and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for October 6, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Charged with Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JUAN HUMBERTO HERNANDEZ-YONES, age 33, a citizen of Honduras, was charged today in a one-count Indictment with illegal re-entry of a removed alien.
According to the Indictment, on June 30, 2016, HERNANDEZ-YONES was found in the United States after having been deported previously on July 15, 2011.
U. S. Attorney Polite 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 Polite praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Emily K. Greenfield is in charge of the prosecution.
Guatemalan National Pleads Guilty to Illegal Re-EntryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JULIO RAYMUNDO-SANTOS, age 41, a citizen of Guatemala, pled guilty to a one-count Indictment that charged him with illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).
According to court records, RAYMUNDO-SANTOS was previously removed from the United States on or about April 4, 2014. RAYMUNDO-SANTOS was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on or about May 10, 2016, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States of the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.
RAYMUNDO-SANTOS 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. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing for August 11, 2016
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
Remaining Defendants Sentenced for Roles in Sex Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – The Justice Department announced today that Christopher Williams, 31, and Laquentin Brown, 34, both of Memphis, Tennessee, were sentenced to 180 months and 99 months in prison, respectively, for their roles in a sex trafficking scheme that operated out of the Riviera Motel in New Orleans. The sentencing was announced by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Williams and Brown pleaded guilty on April 20, 2015, and March 4, 2015, respectively, to one count of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion. Brown also pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation for prostitution.
Five additional defendants have pleaded guilty and been sentenced for their roles in the sex trafficking scheme. On May 4, 2016, Granville Robinson, 28, was sentenced to over 24 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and one count of sex trafficking. On June 8, 2016, Duane Phillips, 31, was sentenced to over 21 years in prison; Anthony Ellis, 27, was sentenced to 15 years in prison and Zacchaeus Taylor, 23, was sentenced to 99 months in prison. Phillips, Ellis and Taylor pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. Ellis and Taylor also pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation for prostitution. Also on June 8, 2016, Kanubhai Patel, 75, the former owner of the Rivera Motel, was sentenced to five years probation and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine after pleading guilty to benefitting financially from sex trafficking. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance of the Eastern District of Louisiana scheduled a hearing for July 20, 2016, to determine the amount of restitution owed to the victims.
“The defendants orchestrated an extensive and violent sex trafficking scheme that forever impacted the lives of many young women,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Gupta. “The Civil Rights Division is unwavering in our commitment to seek justice on behalf of vulnerable victims and hold human traffickers accountable.”
“Today’s sentences culminate one of the most successful human trafficking investigations in our district,” said U.S. Attorney Polite. “However, this case represents just the tip of the iceberg. We will remain vigilant in our efforts to combat modern-day slavery in our area.”
“Human trafficking has become an increasing problem both in Louisiana and across the nation,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeff Sallet of the FBI’s New Orleans Division. “Collectively, the FBI New Orleans Division is working in partnership with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to combat this problem. Human traffickers like these defendants, who continue to prey on vulnerable women and children, will be aggressively investigated by the FBI so the victims may be rescued and the perpetrators brought to justice.”
“Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that ICE Homeland Security Investigations fights as one of its highest priorities via a coordinated global effort with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners,” said Special Agent in Charge Raymond R. Parmer Jr. of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) New Orleans. “The results speak for themselves: over the past two years, HSI has doubled its number of human trafficking arrests. HSI will continue to investigate and seek prosecution of these criminals while also ensuring the victims of this terrible crime are rescued and get the care they need.”
During their respective plea hearings and in their respective court filings, Williams and Brown admitted that they, along with their co-defendants Robinson, Phillips and Ellis, conspired to recruit, groom, force, compel and coerce adult women to engage in prostitution, enforcing rules and means of control that included requiring the women to earn a certain amount of money each day, requiring them to turn over the proceeds and prohibiting them from speaking to or looking at other pimps. Williams admitted to intentionally trying to impregnate his victims to make it harder for them to leave him, while some of the other defendants took the victims’ identification cards and documents. Williams also noted that he attempted to avoid visible bruising so that the victims would not draw the attention of the police or scare off prospective customers. Williams, Brown and the other co-conspirators frequently stayed at the Riviera Motel because they knew that the hotel staff would not stop them from pimping women.
The case was investigated jointly by agents from the FBI and HSI New Orleans Field Offices, with assistance from the FBI’s Memphis Field Office. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Civil Right Division’s Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia K. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Remaining Defendants Sentenced for Roles in Sex Trafficking SchemeRead the Press Release
Sex Trafficking Scheme Used Threats, Violence and Coercion to Compel Women into Prostitution in New Orleans and Elsewhere
The Justice Department announced today that Christopher Williams, 31, and Laquentin Brown, 34, both of Memphis, Tennessee, were sentenced to 180 months and 99 months in prison, respectively, for their roles in a sex trafficking scheme that operated out of the Riviera Motel in New Orleans. The sentencing was announced by Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, and U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Williams and Brown pleaded guilty on April 20, 2015, and March 4, 2015, respectively, to one count of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion. Brown also pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation for prostitution.
Five additional defendants have pleaded guilty and been sentenced for their roles in the sex trafficking scheme. On May 4, 2016, Granville Robinson, 28, was sentenced to over 24 years in prison after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and one count of sex trafficking. On June 8, 2016, Duane Phillips, 31, was sentenced to over 21 years in prison; Anthony Ellis, 27, was sentenced to 15 years in prison and Zacchaeus Taylor, 23, was sentenced to 99 months in prison. Phillips, Ellis and Taylor pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. Ellis and Taylor also pleaded guilty to one count of interstate transportation for prostitution. Also on June 8, 2016, Kanubhai Patel, 75, the former owner of the Rivera Motel, was sentenced to five years probation and ordered to pay a $10,000 fine after pleading guilty to benefitting financially from sex trafficking. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance of the Eastern District of Louisiana scheduled a hearing for July 20, 2016, to determine the amount of restitution owed to the victims.
“The defendants orchestrated an extensive and violent sex trafficking scheme that forever impacted the lives of many young women,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Gupta. “The Civil Rights Division is unwavering in our commitment to seek justice on behalf of vulnerable victims and hold human traffickers accountable.”
“Today’s sentences culminate one of the most successful human trafficking investigations in our district,” said U.S. Attorney Polite. “However, this case represents just the tip of the iceberg. We will remain vigilant in our efforts to combat modern-day slavery in our area.”
“Human trafficking has become an increasing problem both in Louisiana and across the nation,” said Special Agent in Charge Jeff Sallet of the FBI’s New Orleans Division. “Collectively, the FBI New Orleans Division is working in partnership with federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to combat this problem. Human traffickers like these defendants, who continue to prey on vulnerable women and children, will be aggressively investigated by the FBI so the victims may be rescued and the perpetrators brought to justice.”
“Human trafficking is a form of modern-day slavery that ICE Homeland Security Investigations fights as one of its highest priorities via a coordinated global effort with the FBI and our state and local law enforcement partners,” said Special Agent in Charge Raymond R. Parmer Jr. of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (ICE-HSI) New Orleans. “The results speak for themselves: over the past two years, HSI has doubled its number of human trafficking arrests. HSI will continue to investigate and seek prosecution of these criminals while also ensuring the victims of this terrible crime are rescued and get the care they need.”
During their respective plea hearings and in their respective court filings, Williams and Brown admitted that they, along with their co-defendants Robinson, Phillips and Ellis, conspired to recruit, groom, force, compel and coerce adult women to engage in prostitution, enforcing rules and means of control that included requiring the women to earn a certain amount of money each day, requiring them to turn over the proceeds and prohibiting them from speaking to or looking at other pimps. Williams admitted to intentionally trying to impregnate his victims to make it harder for them to leave him, while some of the other defendants took the victims’ identification cards and documents. Williams also noted that he attempted to avoid visible bruising so that the victims would not draw the attention of the police or scare off prospective customers. Williams, Brown and the other co-conspirators frequently stayed at the Riviera Motel because they knew that the hotel staff would not stop them from pimping women.
The case was investigated jointly by agents from the FBI and HSI New Orleans Field Offices, with assistance from the FBI’s Memphis Field Office. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Civil Right Division’s Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julia K. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Mexican National Sentenced for Unlawful Transfer of Identification DocumentsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MEINARDO ALONSO-CASTILLO, age 30, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for the unlawful transfer of identification documents.
U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman sentenced ALONSO-CASTILLO to 10 months imprisonment followed by 1 year of supervised release, a $5,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
According to court documents, from on or about September 10, 2015, through December 9, 2015, ALONSO-CASTILLO sold altered identification documents, including Social Security cards, with the intent that the recipient could use the documents to gain employment unlawfully.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agencies in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González was in charge of the prosecution.
California Woman and Her Company Sentenced for Clean Air Act ViolationRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that CHEERY WAY, INC., and ELAINE CHIU, age 60, a resident of San Francisco, California, were sentenced today by the Honorable Susie Morgan to five years of probation, a $500,000 fine, and $162,520 in restitution to workers for medical monitoring costs for violating notification requirements under the Clean Air Act.
According to the court documents, on or about April 2, 2011, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, CHEERY WAY, INC., and CHIU did knowingly fail to notify and report to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality the demolition of the Mississippi Queen Riverboat which contained regulated asbestos containing material, to wit: wall and ceiling tiles, at least ten days prior to the start of the demolition as required by the Clean Air Act, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 7413(c)(2)(B) and Title 40, Code of Federal Regulations, Section 61.145(b).
Prior to the demolition of the Mississippi Queen, CHIU and agents of CHEERY WAY, INC., had been informed that samples of the wall and ceiling tiles on the old riverboat contained asbestos. However, CHEERY WAY, INC., did not inform the demolition contractor they hired that sampling had been performed. CHEERY WAY, INC., merely told the contractor that the riverboat “might” have asbestos. The inexperienced demolition contractor told CHIU and CHEERY WAY, INC., that he did not believe the vessel contained any asbestos. As a result, workers were not required to take any precautions against the release of asbestos. After receiving a tip about the worksite, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality issued the site a Notice of Deficiency and work was stopped. The site was thereafter remediated by another CHIU company at a cost of $245,248.23.
During her five year term of probation, CHIU is prohibited from participating in any capacity in the construction, demolition, or renovation business anywhere in the United States and must ensure that none of the companies she owns or operates will engage in the construction, demolition, or renovation business. Similarly, neither CHEERY WAY, INC., or its agents or employees will engage in the construction, demolition, or renovation business anywhere in the United States.
"Unsafe handling of asbestos endangers human health and can seriously harm the environment,” said Ted Stanich, Acting Director for the U.S. EPA-Criminal Investigation Division. “The defendants knowingly put unsuspecting workers at great risk and threatened the health and safety of the general public. This case should serve notice that when companies and their top managers put Americans at risk, EPA and its partner agencies will hold them accountable.”
“Any business that breaks the law through false statements and illegal actions in order to pollute our soil, air and water does so with a blatant disregard for our health and environment,” said Dr. Chuck Carr Brown, DEQ Secretary. “Crimes of this nature affect all of us, so we encourage anyone with information on any type of illegal environmental activity to contact DEQ and local law enforcement as soon as possible so that we may investigate and bring these violators to justice.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Environmental Protection Agency-Criminal Investigation Division and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality-Criminal Investigation Division in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily K. Greenfield of the National Security Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana is in charge of the prosecution.
Salvadoran National Sentenced for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that RENE MARTINEZ-QUIJANO, age 34, a citizen of El Salvador, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal entry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon sentenced MARTINEZ-QUIJANO to time served, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee. MARTINEZ-QUIJANO will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on March 1, 2016, MARTINEZ-QUIJANO was found in the United States after having been previously deported from the United States on June 27, 2014.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
Salvadoran National Sentenced for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that FRANCISCO MENDOZA-ZAVALA, age 41, a citizen of El Salvador, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon sentenced MENDOZA-ZAVALA to time served, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee. MENDOZA-ZAVALA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on March 30, 2016, MENDOZA-ZAVALA was found in the United States after having been previously deported from the United States on September 6, 2012.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
Mexican National Sentenced for Violation of the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that OMAR RICO-ALMANZA, age 34, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty a one-count Indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced RICO-ALMANZA to time served, to be followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment. Additionally, RICO-ALMANZA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement for removal proceedings.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis was in charge of the prosecution.
Jefferson Parish Woman Charged with Defrauding Local BusinessRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that TRACY NICHELSON, age 42, a resident of Metairie was charged today in a Bill of Information with one count of bank fraud.
According to the Bill of Information, NICHELSON worked as an assistant of rental management for a New Orleans real estate business. From June 2012 until July 2013, NICHELSON embezzled $16,418 from her employer. NICHELSON issued approximately 13 unauthorized checks to herself and others by forging the signature of the business’s owner.
If convicted, NICHELSON faces up to thirty years imprisonment and up to a $1,000,000 fine as well as restitution for the money embezzled.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that a Bill of Information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.
Houston Woman Pleads Guilty in Conspiracy to Traffick Heroin Using MegabusRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MARTHA QUINONES, age 51, of Houston, Texas, pled guilty today to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute over one kilogram of heroin.
QUINONES was one of eight defendants charged in a 21-count Superseding Indictment on September 18, 2015. According to court documents, this Indictment resulted from an FBI investigation into a heroin-trafficking organization operating primarily around Loyola Avenue and Harmony Street in Central City, New Orleans. QUINONES was one of two sources who traveled via Megabus from Houston to New Orleans, carrying half-kilogram quantities of heroin for distribution in the New Orleans area.
QUINONES is facing not less than 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, as well as a possible fine of up to $10,000,000. U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier set sentencing on October 13, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the FBI New Orleans Gang Task Force (NOGTF), Saint Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Sentenced for Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JORGE PULIDO-HERRERA, a/k/a JORGE LICONA-CERRATO, age 46, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry of removed alien.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced PULIDO-HERRERA to time served, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $100.00 special assessment. Additionally, PULIDO-HERRERA will be surrendered to the custody of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.
According to the Bill of Information, on or about March 15, 2016, PULIDO-HERRERA was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about December 8, 1999.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González was in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JEFFERY WILSON, age 31, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to two counts of distributing cocaine hydrochloride and cocaine base as charged in a Superseding Bill of Information.
According to court documents, WILSON made a sale of cocaine hydrochloride on May 13, 2014, to two confidential informants working with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in the area near the former Melpomene Housing Development near Martin Luther King Boulevard. On May 30, 2014, WILSON made a second sale of cocaine base (or crack) to the same two informants.
WILSON is facing a term of imprisonment of not more than twenty years for each count, a fine of not more than $1,000,000 and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt set sentencing for October 12, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the ATF in leading this investigation along with members of the NOPD led Multi-Agency Gang Unit (MAG UNIT). Assistant United States Attorneys Edward Rivera, Maurice Landrieu, Jr., Nolan Paige and Nicholas Moses were in charge of the prosecution.
Metairie Man Sentenced for Receiving Images and Videos Depicting the Sexual Victimization of ChildrenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ANDREW HUTCHINSON, age, 25, of New Orleans, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to crimes involving the sexual exploitation of children. Specifically, HUTCHINSON pleaded guilty to receiving and attempting to receive sexually explicit images of children.
U.S. District judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced HUTCHINSON to 60 months imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. Additionally, HUTCHINSON is required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration Notification Act. HUTCHINSON was also ordered to pay $12,000 in restitution ($2,000 to victims in each of the six series that requested restitution).
According to court documents, HUTCHINSON used a mobile cellular phone chat application to converse with a twelve-year-old boy in Seattle, Washington, between July 24, 2014, and July 27, 2014. HUTCHINSON and the boy exchanged approximately 113 chat messages. Knowing that the boy was only twelve, HUTCHINSON requested and received approximately fifteen sexually explicit images of the boy via the messaging application. In exchange, HUTCHINSON provided the boy with sexually explicit images of minor females as young as approximately five years old. HUTCHINSON also provided the boy with a link to an online cloud storage account that contained approximately 1766 images and 19 videos depicting minor females as young as approximately eighteen months old being forced to engage in sexually explicit conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg was in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegally ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that NATANAEL MORALES-TRINIDAD, a/k/a Samael Morales, a/k/a Natanael K. Morales, a/k/a Nathaniel Morales, age 46, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal reentry.
According to the Bill of Information, on or about May 1, 2016, MORALES-TRINIDAD was found in the United States after having been officially deported and removed on or about May 8, 2013, after a conviction for cocaine possession.
MORALES-TRINIDAD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years and a fine of $250,000, three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100.00 special assessment. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for October 5, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.
Firearms Dealer Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Firearm and Lying to Federal AgentsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that WAYLON GIVENS, age 42, of Amite, was sentenced today after having pled guilty to illegal possession of a machine gun and making a false statement the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced GIVENS to 5 years of probation and 15 weekends of incarceration. Judge Morgan also assessed GIVENS a $5000.00 fine and 100 hours of community service. As part of GIVENS’ plea, he agreed to surrender his federal firearms license.
According to court documents, in July 2014, ATF conducted an investigation into RH Custom, an internet company based in Sweden. RH Custom was selling “Glock Switches,” “Lightning Links,” suppressor builder’s kits (silencers) and other firearms components to customers in the United States. Some of these parts are designed to convert semi-automatic firearms to fully automatic firearms, in violation of the National Firearms Act. As a result of the investigation, ATF learned that between June 2012 through August 2012, GIVENS, a Federal Firearms Licensee, doing business as Givens Firearms, ordered and received seven (7) Lightning Links and four (4) Glock Switches. ATF learned of GIVENS’ purchases by reviewing invoices obtained in relation to the investigation of RH Custom.
On July 11, 2014, ATF interviewed GIVENS and informed him of the nature of the investigation and that agents were aware of his purchases from RH Custom. Agents advised GIVENS that if he surrendered the parts to ATF, he would not be arrested and prosecuted for the federal offenses that he committed in relation to his purchase of the parts. Agents advised GIVENS that the purpose of ATF’s investigation was to retrieve the parts that he received from RH Custom. GIVENS told ATF that he sold multiple “Glock full-auto conversion kits” and “Lightening Links” to an unknown individual, but that he did not know the location of the parts. After further investigation, it was determined that GIVENS had sold the illegal parts to known individuals whom he knew were in possession of the parts at the time of the ATF interview.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the ATF New Orleans Division Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nolan D. Paige was in charge of the prosecution.
Bogalusa Man Sentenced for Oxycodone DistributionRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that JOSEPH POUNDS, age 47, of Bogalusa, was sentenced today for three counts of selling oxycodone tablets to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agent. Oxycodone is a prescription-only Schedule II controlled substance and a highly addictive and abused opioid drug.
U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt sentenced the defendant to a term of imprisonment of twelve months and one day, three years of supervised release, and a $300 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the DEA Tactical Diversion Squad in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Michael B. Redmann was in charge of the prosecution.
Local Men Sentenced on Firearms ViolationsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced today that STERLING ROBINSON, age 26, of Gretna; DEANDRE ROSE, age 23, and EVERETT ROSS, age 28, both of New Orleans, were sentenced today after having pled guilty to federal firearm violations.
U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced ROSS to 65 months of incarceration, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. ROBINSON and ROSE were each sentenced to 60 months of incarceration, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, on October 14, 2014, Gretna police officers were patrolling in the area of Milton & Pratt Streets, when they noticed an illegally parked vehicle. As the officers approached the vehicle to issue a citation, they saw a bag of crack cocaine in the passenger door handle. The officers also observed a semi-automatic handgun secured between the passenger seat and the middle console. A short time later, the officers observed ROBINSON, ROSE, ROSS, and a female acquaintance approach and attempt to enter the vehicle.
As ROBINSON was removed from the area of the front passenger seat, he resisted arrest and attempted to reach for the bag of crack cocaine. ROSS was removed from the driver’s seat of the vehicle, and ROSE was removed from the rear passenger seat. The officers searched the vehicle, and two additional handguns were discovered. A Ruger model P85 9mm semi-automatic handgun was found underneath the front of the driver’s seat and accessible to ROSS. A Springfield model XDM, .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun was found underneath the rear of the front passenger’s seat and accessible to ROSE. The initially-observed, Kahr model CW9, 9mm semi-automatic handgun was accessible to ROBINSON. Further investigation revealed that each of the firearms had been reported stolen.
Court records revealed that ROSS and ROSE each had two prior felony convictions in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. As such, they both were prohibited from possessing firearms by both state and federal law.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the ATF New Orleans Division Office and the Gretna Police Department, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nolan D. Paige and Special Assistant United States Attorney Brian Ebarb, who was assigned from the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office, were in charge of the prosecution.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that EDUARDO URBINA-JUAREZ (URBINA), a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty today to a one-count Indictment charging him with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of 8 U.S.C. ' 1326(a).
According to court documents, URBINA reentered the United States after having been previously deported on May 23, 2013.
URBINA 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. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. set sentencing for August 11, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
St. James Resident Pleads Guilty to Felony Violation for Selling Migratory BirdsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ROYLEY A. FOLSE, JR., age 69, a resident of St. James Parish, pled guilty yesterday to a felony violation for selling migratory game birds.
According to court documents, from June 2010 to December 2011, FOSLE illegally bartered and sold for cash four yellow-crowned night herons and sixty-two white ibis, which are migratory birds protected under the Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA).
FOLSE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $2,000, and a maximum term of supervised release of one year. U.S. District Judge Stanwood Duval set sentencing for October 5, 2016.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and the United States Fish and Wildlife Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Woman Pleads Guilty to one Count of Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that ZELLISHA DEJEAN, age 37, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to one count of health care fraud.
On April 21, 2016, DEJEAN was charged along with 13 other defendants in a 31-count Superseding Indictment charging approximately $30,252,906 in Medicare fraud. According to court documents, DEJEAN worked as an RN for ABIDE. Her duties included assessing the status of her patients, initiating a plan of care, evaluating patient needs, providing comprehensive nursing care, among other things.
DEJEAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for January 26, 2017.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrice Harris Sullivan, Sharan Lieberman, Hayden Brockett and Andre Lagarde are in charge of the prosecution.
New Orleans Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Failing to Register as Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that DONALD GEORGE BUTLER, JR., age 52, of New Orleans, was sentenced today after previously pleading guilty to failing to register as sex offender, in violation of federal law.
U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced BUTLER to 37 months imprisonment.
According to court documents, BUTLER was convicted of sexual battery in New Orleans in 1997 and, as a result, was required to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. After being released from prison in 2009, BUTLER moved to Texas without notifying the appropriate authorities. Consequently, in 2010, BUTLER was charged with, and pleaded guilty to, failing to register as a sex offender in the Western District of Texas. Upon his release from federal custody in about November 2012, BUTLER moved back to Louisiana without notifying law enforcement authorities in either Texas or Louisiana. BUTLER lived in Louisiana, without notifying any law enforcement authorities, until he was located by Inspectors with the United States Marshal’s Service in July 2014.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Marshal’s Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.
Former Houston Police Officer Sentenced to over 30 Years in Prison on Federal Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that NOE JUAREZ, a resident of Houston, was sentenced today by U.S. District Chief Judge Sarah S. Vance to serve 365 months in prison for his role in a large-scale drug conspiracy.
On January 15, 2015, JUAREZ was convicted by a federal jury for conspiracy to possess and distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine and a separate conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. JUAREZ, as a co-conspirator, assisted an organization responsible for distributing hundreds of kilograms of cocaine throughout the United States, to include Jackson, Mississippi; Pensacola, Florida; New York City, New York; Detroit, Michigan; Baltimore, Maryland, Dover, Delaware; and Houma, Louisiana.
According to evidence presented at trial, JUAREZ, a veteran Houston police officer, became involved with an international drug conspiracy that reached into the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy, spearheaded by co-conspirators and brothers EFRAIN and SERGIO GRIMALDO, distributed thousands of kilograms of cocaine throughout the United States. The drugs were supplied to the conspiracy by the Los Zetas drug cartel in Mexico. JUAREZ played a pivotal role by providing law enforcement sensitive information, including running license plates and sharing police tactics and activities with conspirators. JUAREZ further supplied vehicles, body armor, and semi-automatic handguns and assault rifles to the conspirators, some of which ended up among senior cartel leaders in Mexico.
“This prosecution is the result of significant collaboration by local, state, and federal agencies across Louisiana and Texas,” stated U.S. Attorney Polite. “Their collective work ensures that a crooked cop will now spend over 30 years in prison for pouring more illegal guns and drugs onto our streets.”
“The cartel’s efforts to infiltrate law enforcement are not limited to Mexico. They want to do it here as well, and we can't let them,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Stephen G. Azzam. “We must and will remain diligent in finding and prosecuting anyone who supports, funds, or aids the cartels. Noe Juarez’ conduct unfairly tarnishes the proud reputation of law enforcement officers in this country who put their lives on the line every day to protect our residents and their communities. By doing so, he not only violated his duties as a police officer, but also endangered fellow law enforcement officers and the public trust/faith through his actions.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) Offices in New Orleans and Houston, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) in Houston, and the Houston Police Department Internal Affairs Division in investigating this matter. Additionally, U.S. Attorney Polite thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas for their assistance. Agents who assisted in the prosecution team included case agents William Johnson, DEA, and Jose Garcia, FBI, with assistance from agents and officers from DEA, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”), and the Houston Police Department Internal Affairs Proactive Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys John F. Murphy, Theodore Carter, and James Baehr were in charge of the prosecution.
Chalmette Man Sentenced for Violations of Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that MARQUIS JOHNSON, age 25, of Chalmette, was sentenced today on charges related to four violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act. According to court records, JOHNSON conspired with others to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I drug controlled substance and a substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine base, a Scheduled II drug controlled substance. In addition to the conspiracy, JOHNSON was sentenced on three substantive distributions of heroin or cocaine base.
U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced JOHNSON to a 71-month term of imprisonment for the drug conspiracy and distribution charges. JOHNSON was also ordered to serve a 3-year term of supervised release following imprisonment and to pay a $400 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys David Haller and Shirin Hakimzadeh were in charge of the prosecution.
Woman Pleads Guilty and is Sentenced for Assault Aboard an AircraftRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that KATE LOHAN, age 33, a resident of Boca Raton, Florida, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information for committing assault while aboard an aircraft.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Joseph C. Wilkinson, Jr. sentenced LOHAN to one year of probation with continued substance abuse treatment and ordered her to pay restitution in the amount of $7,212.25 for costs incurred such as a landing fee, fuel charges, flight delays, etc.
According to court documents, on November 25, 2015, LOHAN was a ticketed passenger on JetBlue flight number 101 traveling from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport to Los Angeles International Airport. She became disruptive prior to takeoff after she was told by a flight attendant to put her seat in the upright position. During the course of the flight, witnesses stated that LOHAN was continuing to be disruptive, and later threw a cell phone at one of the flight attendants. Her actions caused the flight to be diverted to New Orleans.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri was in charge of the prosecution.
Former Terrebonne Sheriff’s Detective Charged with Theft of Federal FundsRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that former Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office Detective DAWN C. FORET, age 38, of Houma, was charged today in a one count Bill of Information for theft of government funds.
According to the Bill of Information, from November of 2010 through July of 2012, FORET willfully and knowingly stole at least $1,000 of federal funds from the United States Department of Transportation.
If convicted, theft of government funds carries a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and $100 special assessment.
U.S. Attorney Polite reiterated that today’s Bill of Information describes allegations and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its handling of the matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward J. Rivera and Harry “Bill” McSherry are in charge of the prosecution.
Slidell Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving Images and Videos Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of ChildrenRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that BRIAN GRACO, age 35, of Slidell, pled guilty today to receiving images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children.
According to court documents, on May 27, 2014, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at GRACO’S residence, during which time they seized several electronic items, including three computers, one external digital storage device, and three removable digital storage devices. A preliminary review of the electronic devices determined that a desktop computer contained images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of children. A more intensive forensic examination of the device revealed that GRACO had used the desktop computer to access Internet websites and networks devoted to the advertisement and distribution of child pornography. Between June 4, 2013 and May 27, 2014, GRACO discussed matters pertinent to the sexual abuse of children to search for, download, and save images and videos of children as young as five (5)-years-old engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The forensic examination determined that GRACO possessed at least10,264 images and 130 videos of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. After downloading the images and videos, GRACO stored them on special folders he created on his computer.
GRACO faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years and a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years, followed by up to a life term of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. He can also be required to register as a sex offender. U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon set sentencing for September 29, 2016.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and J. Ryan McLaren are in charge of the prosecution.
Plaquemines Parish Resident Pleads Guilty to Defrauding the Gulf Coast Claims FacilityRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that SHANQUITTA JONES-DILLON, age 40, of Buras, pled guilty today to a one-count Bill of Information charging her with wire fraud.
According to court documents, in 2010, JONES-DILLON filed a false claim for damages arising out of the Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill. As part of the scheme to defraud, JONES-DILLON submitted false documents to the Gulf Coast Claims Facility (GCCF) during the claims process. The fraudulent claim submitted by JONES-DILLON caused the GCCF to release over $63,000 in damage payments to which she was not entitled.
The maximum penalty for wire fraud is twenty years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to the victim. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for September 15, 2016.
This case was brought as part of this District’s partnership with the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF), a nationwide initiative to protect available funds and assistance for those victims of both natural and man-made disasters such as hurricanes, floods, tornadoes and the recent Gulf oil spill. If you have knowledge of fraud, waste, abuse, or allegations of mismanagement involving disaster relief operations, you can contact the NCDF by either calling the hotline at (866) 720-5721, faxing (225) 334-4707, emailing at [email protected] or in writing to National Center for Disaster Fraud, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II is in charge of the prosecution
New Orleans Man Sentenced in Heroin ConspiracyRead the Press Release
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that LARRY HARDY, age 50, of New Orleans, was sentenced today after having previously pled guilty to one count of conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.
U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced HARDY to 90 months of incarceration, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release.
HARDY was one of twelve defendants charged in a 23-count Indictment on July 25, 2014. According to court documents, this Indictment sprung from an investigation into a heroin-trafficking organization operating in New Orleans East. This organization was responsible for distributing at least 15 kilograms of heroin in the New Orleans area. As part of the arrests in this case, federal agents have seized from the twelve defendants approximately $1,200,000 in assets (a combination of vehicles, currency, jewelry, and real property) as proceeds made from the sale of heroin.
U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long was in charge of the prosecution.