Western District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Bossier City Police Officer and President of Bossier City Police Union Pleads Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Harold W. Sanford, Jr., 52, of Bossier City, Louisiana, appeared before United States District Judge Donald E. Walter today and pleaded guilty to charges related to his recent arrest and involvement in stealing funds from the Bossier City Police Union and obtaining controlled substances by fraud.
Sanford was arrested on August 26, 2022 as the result of a criminal complaint charging him with fraudulently obtaining prescriptions for a controlled substance. On September 13, 2022, Sanford was indicted by a federal grand jury, along with his co-defendant Mitchell Morehead, and charged with conspiracy to obtain controlled substances by fraud and distribution of a controlled substance. Subsequently, a bill of information was filed on October 20, 2022 charging Sanford with an additional count of conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States. He is pleading guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States and one count of obtaining controlled substances by fraud.
According to information presented in court, Sanford was a Sergeant with the Bossier City Police Department and the President of the Bossier City Police Local 645 of the International Union of Police Associations (Bossier Police Union). Sanford’s co-defendant, Morehead, was a fundraiser for the Bossier Police Union who directly reported to Sanford. An investigation by agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) revealed that Morehead would solicit money from area businesses and other individuals by telling them that he was raising money to support the charitable purposes of the Bossier Police Union. While acting in his capacity as President of the Bossier Police Union, Sanford agreed to pay Morehead 50% of all funds received as compensation.
Sanford would present checks payable to Morehead to tellers at the bank where the Bossier Police Union account was held and then pay Morehead in cash. The endorsement on the back of these checks were made in Morehead’s name but written by Sanford. On occasion, Sanford would keep all or some of the money from these checks. Employees at the bank eventually told Sanford that he could no longer cash checks payable to Morehead without Morehead being present. Thereafter, Sanford would write checks payable to Morehead for an inflated amount, have him endorse the checks, and take Morehead to the drive-through lane at the bank branch to cash them. Sanford would then keep some of the money for himself and provide the remainder to Morehead.
Once Sanford took over the payments of money to Morehead for the Bossier Police Union in July 2020, the financial records indicate the percentage of money paid to Morehead increased from about 50% to about 75% of the charitable contributions collected. The loss amount from this scheme is $31,740.
Agents with the FBI also learned through their investigation that Sanford fraudulently obtained prescription drugs, to include hydrocodone and oxycodone, with the assistance of Morehead. Specifically, on August 22, 2022, Sanford drove Morehead to the office of a Shreveport physician referred to in the indictment as Individual A. While at Individual A’s office, Morehead falsely represented that he needed a Schedule II controlled substance and obtained a prescription for Percocet 10-325 mg. Sanford paid for Morehead’s office visit with Individual A. Thereafter, Morehead filled the prescription and provided 23 of the Percocet tablets to Sanford.
Sanford faces a sentence of up to 5 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000, for conspiracy to commit fraud against the United States. In addition, he faces up to 4 years in prison for obtaining controlled substances by fraud. Sentencing has been set for February 24, 2023 at 11:15 a.m.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Alexander C. Van Hook, Special Counsel to the United States Attorney.
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Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictment Charging Local Physician and LPN with Illegally Obtaining and Distributing Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Dr. Jeffrey L. Evans, Jr., 65, of Mansfield, Louisiana, and Debra E. Craig, 66, of Converse, Louisiana, were each indicted by a federal grand jury in Shreveport today for illegally obtaining and distributing controlled substances, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown.
Evans was a physician licensed to practice medicine in the State of Louisiana with an office in Mansfield, and Craig was an LPN who worked in the medical clinic and was assigned to work with Evans. The indictment alleges that beginning on or about January 2, 2014 and continuing until on or about March 9, 2022, Evans and Craig conspired together and with other persons to obtain hydrocodone and Adderall, both Schedule II controlled substances, by fraud.
It is alleged in the indictment that Evans would write prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances to an unnamed person identified as “Individual 1” and to his co-defendant and LPN, Craig. The controlled substances prescribed included hydrocodone-acetaminophen tablets, hydrocodone-homatropine syrup, and Adderrall. According to the indictment, Individual 1 would fill the prescriptions at a Mansfield, Louisiana area pharmacy and then provide the Adderrall to Evans, who would split the controlled substance containing hydrocodone with Individual 1.
The indictment further alleges that Craig would fill the prescriptions at a Mansfield, Louisiana area pharmacy using the name “Debbie Craig.” Evans would provide cash to Craig to pay the pharmacy for the Schedule II controlled substances and after filling the prescriptions, Craig would in turn provide them to Evans.
It is alleged in nine counts in the indictment that Evans obtained controlled substances by fraud from December 2017 through August 2018. In addition, Evans and Craig are both charged with five counts of obtaining controlled substances by fraud between September 2020 and March 2022. Finally, the indictment alleges that Evans distributed controlled substances through prescriptions that were not issued for a legitimate medical purpose between February 2018 and August 2018.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, Evans faces a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. If convicted, Craig faces a sentence of up to 4 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and is being prosecuted by Alexander C. Van Hook, Special Counsel to the United States Attorney.
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U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown Announces $152,565 in Justice Department Grants to Support Project Safe NeighborhoodsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT/LAFAYETTE/ALEXANDRIA/LAKE CHARLES/MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced today that the Department of Justice has awarded $152,565 to support the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program in the Western District of Louisiana. Funding will support community efforts to address the epidemic of gun crime, violent crime and gang violence in the district. The grant is one of a number of awards being made to state and local agencies across the country. Funds are administered by the Bureau of Justice Assistance, an arm of the Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP). The OJP provides federal leadership, grants, training, technical assistance and other resources to improve the nation’s capacity to prevent and reduce crime, advance racial equity in the administration of justice, assist victims and enhance the rule of law.
The PSN approach is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities; supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place; setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities; and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions. PSN programs are led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in collaboration with local public safety agencies and community organizations. The programs’ emphasis on community engagement, prevention and intervention measures, focused and strategic enforcement, and measurement and accountability has helped achieve overall reductions in violent crime, including gun homicides, in neighborhoods where PSN strategies have been implemented.
“The PSN program has played a vital part in the battle against the problem that we have with gun violence in the Western District of Louisiana,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “This grant will help to continue the efforts of officers in Shreveport and other cities in our district to combat this type of violence on our streets. The success of the PSN program is a result of the tireless, and sometimes thankless, efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. We commend these law enforcement officers for the work that they do each and every day to keep our communities safe and look forward to continuing the work before us. However, this grant will also give us an opportunity to focus on crime deterrence, prevention and educational programs through other community partners for the benefit of our district.”
Past recipients of PSN grants have been the Alexandria, Lake Charles, Monroe, Shreveport and Lafayette Police Departments as well as the Caddo Parish and Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Offices and Lafayette City Marshal’s Office. Funds were granted for various programs to include assisting with implementation of a new computer software program, body cameras for law enforcement officers, training for officers on gang prevention and overtime hours for law enforcement officers to increase patrols in areas that saw an increase in violent crime, including narcotics, gang and gun-related violent crimes.
The Shreveport Police Department has been named as the fiscal agent for administering the funds allowed through this PSN grant. A committee comprised of community volunteers from the five major cities in the Western District of Louisiana has been appointed to be responsible for reviewing the applications received from law enforcement and non-governmental agencies who submit their grant proposals.
“Project Safe Neighborhoods has been a successful program for our city,” stated Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith. “We are honored to once again act as the fiscal agent for this grant and look forward to supporting the U.S. Attorney and our federal partners in building mutual trust between law enforcement and the community to help curb the violent crime epidemic in our area.” Shreveport Police Department, on behalf of the DOJ’s OJP, is seeking applications for these grant funds under the PSN Program. At least 30% of the grant funds must be designated for grants under the PSN Program to fund new and/or current gang violence reduction strategies in the Western District. Various types of single or multi-grantee grant proposals are welcome, including those that address the following:
- Gang and gun violence reduction, deterrence, prevention, community outreach and education;
- Enforcement, adjudication and supervision programs;
- Prisoner re-entry programs; or
- Other innovative related projects.
The FY 2022 PSN Grant Announcement can be found on the Western District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney’s Office website at: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. To be eligible, grant proposals must be submitted no later than 5 p.m. on Friday, November 11, 2022, to the following e-mail address: [email protected]. Interested applicants may also e-mail questions or contact Lisa Alwert at (337) 262-6618 for additional information.
More information about awards under PSN and other OJP grants can be found on the OJP Grant Awards Page.
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Escape from Federal Custody and Illegal Possession of a Firearm Charges Land Two Defendants in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the resolution of two cases in the Western District of Louisiana today. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced the two defendants as follows:
John Robert Stevens, Jr., 35, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was sentenced to 51 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegal possession of a firearm. Stevens pleaded guilty to the charge on May 25, 2022 which stemmed from an incident that occurred in Lake Charles when officers with the Lake Charles Police Department were dispatched regarding complaints about a suspect named “John.” Officers arrived at the location and after an encounter with Stevens, found a Lorcin L25 in his front pants pocket, along with a glass tube with white residue wrapped in bubble wrap. Officers learned that Stevens was a convicted felon, and he was arrested. Their further investigation determined that Stevens had been walking along the street looking for his girlfriend when he encountered another couple. Stevens told officers he held the gun in his front pocket and gestured with it toward the couple and they were able to see the imprint of the gun through his jacket. Because Stevens has prior felony convictions, he is prohibited from having a firearm in his possession.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lake Charles Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. McCoy.
Derrick Nathaniel Hartfield, 55, was sentenced to 30 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release for escaping from federal custody. Hartfield was previously convicted on federal charges of aggravated identity theft and wire fraud in July 2012. He served his 84-month federal prison sentence and was released in March 2019. On January 8, 2020, his supervised release was revoked due to a violation, and he was sentenced to serve an additional 27 months in prison. During his sentence on the revocation, he was transferred to a CINC facility, also referred to as a halfway house, in Lake Charles to complete his sentence. On August 26, 2021, Hartfield stated he was enroute to the facility returning from work. However, an hour passed, and Hartfield never returned. CINC staff made several attempts to contact Hartfield, but he did not respond.
On September 20, 2021, officers with the San Bernadino County, California, Sheriff’s Office responded to a local pizza restaurant in connection with a theft. Hartfield was identified as the suspect and taken into custody. A complaint was filed on September 23, 2021 charging Hartfield with escape from federal custody without permission.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal’s Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamilla A. Bynog.
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Convicted Felon Found in Possession of AR-15 Firearm Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Orlando Rishawn Walter, 33, of Cedar Hill, Texas, has been sentenced today in federal court, United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote sentenced Walter to 49 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.
Walter was charged in an indictment in December 2020 with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and he pleaded guilty to the charge on May 27, 2022. The charges stem from an incident that occurred on July 25, 2020 when deputies with the Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle. The driver was identified and asked to provide a registration for the vehicle. When the driver opened the passenger door to retrieve the paperwork, the deputy noticed another individual sitting in the passenger seat, who was later identified as Walter. The deputy observed the butt end of a rifle sitting beside Walter and Walter’s left hand on the firearm. Walter was ordered to slowly exit the vehicle with hands raised and as he exited the vehicle, he fled into a nearby cemetery. Deputies were unable to apprehend Walter at the time. Walter’s firearm was retrieved from the vehicle and deputies discovered that it was a loaded AR-15 pistol with a 30-round magazine, with a round in the chamber and the safety was in the off position.
Law enforcement agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) determined that Walter has previous felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute Schedule I controlled substances (2008) and possession of a Schedule II controlled substance (2015), as well as DWI (2017). As such, Walter was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition. Agents were able to locate Walter and he was arrested and charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
The case was investigated by the ATF and Desoto Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tennille M. Gilreath.
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Man with Domestic Abuse Battery Conviction Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – Michael O. Falcone, 41, of McComb, Mississippi, was sentenced today for illegal possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced Falcone to 18 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to evidence presented to the court, on September 29, 2021, law enforcement officers with the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Falcone. Deputies observed Falcone with a knife that was visible on his person and multiple other knives in plain view in the vehicle and thus, conducted a pat down search of Falcone. The deputy found a fully loaded handgun magazine in Falcone’s outer front pocket. A search warrant was obtained by law enforcement to search Falcone’s vehicle. Inside deputies found a fully loaded Sig Sauer P365 handgun in the glovebox and a J.C. Higgins revolver located under the driver’s seat. Falcone previously pleaded guilty to domestic abuse battery in 2012 and was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
Falcone was indicted for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in April 2022 and pleaded guilty to the charge on July 7, 2022.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. McCoy.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Lawyer from Leesville and Another Local Man Sentenced for their Involvement in Two Separate Child Pornography CasesRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing of two defendants who were involved in separate child pornography cases. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced the following individuals today:
Michael Allen Smith, Jr., 33, a lawyer from Leesville, Louisiana, has been sentenced to 168 months (14 years) in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, for enticement of a minor. Smith pleaded guilty on February 17, 2022 to the charge which was the result of an investigation into a complaint received in January 2020 by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). The mother of a 15-year-old boy reported that while her son was visiting a relative in the Leesville area, he had met and engaged in sexual conduct with an adult male. The mother told law enforcement that she had seen a video on her son’s phone of he and the adult male engaged in sexual conduct. She took the phone from her son and turned it over to law enforcement for further investigation.
The victim was interviewed, and agents determined that he had engaged in these acts with Smith, who recorded them on his phone at his residence in Leesville. The victim admitted that he met Smith on the social media platform Grindr and initially told Smith that he was 21-years-old. However, he later confessed that he was a minor and Smith continued the sexual relationship with the victim and in fact visited his profiles on social media and knew he was a minor.
The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Luke Walker and Earl M. Campbell.
In another case, Raymond Fontenot, Jr., 39, of Reeves, Louisiana, was sentenced to 30 years in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for production of child pornography. Fontenot pleaded guilty to the charge on July 6, 2022. According to evidence presented to the court, officers with the Allen Parish Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on Fontenot’s residence on November 9, 2021. While searching the residence, law enforcement officers found an Android tablet hidden in Fontenot’s bathroom. Another search warrant was obtained for the tablet and a forensic examination was performed. The examination revealed videos containing child pornography, specifically one from 2020 depicting sexual abuse of a prepubescent girl while she was sleeping. Fontenot admitted to law enforcement officers that he had created the video and had sexually exploited the victim.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Allen Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Vermaelen.
These cases are part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Former Medical Assistant at Desoto Regional Health System Pleads Guilty in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Debra Bossier a/k/a Debra Palmer, 48, of Mansfield, Louisiana, entered a guilty plea today to one count of acquiring or obtaining controlled substances by fraud. The hearing was held before United States District Judge Donald E. Walter.
According to evidence presented to the court, Bossier worked as a Medical Assistant at the Desoto Regional Health System (Desoto Regional) in Mansfield, Louisiana. Desoto Regional used an Electronic Medical Records System to document patient encounters and generate electronic prescriptions. Bossier used the Electronic Medical Records System to falsely document telephone encounters to obtain controlled substances by fraud and forgery by generating controlled substance prescriptions for herself, her husband, her daughters, and a daughter’s boyfriend.
The primary controlled substances that Bossier obtained by fraud were Hydrocodone-Acetaminophen 10-325 which is sometimes marketed under the brand name “Norco” and Oxycodone-Acetaminophen 10-325 which is sometimes marketed under the brand name “Percocet.” Bossier also fraudulently generated prescriptions for Adderall, Vyvanse, and Ativan. During the scheme to defraud, Bossier improperly generated over 200 prescriptions.
Once the prescriptions were generated, Bossier would print the prescriptions and mark them with an “E” above the name of the physician who allegedly prescribed the medications and would fill them at Mansfield Drug Company or would provide the fraudulent prescriptions to her family members. The family members would then fill the prescriptions at Mansfield Drug Company. One of the fraudulent prescriptions was filled at Mansfield Drug Company on October 31, 2019. Bossier generated this prescription for 120 tablets of Percocet for herself in the name of Debra Palmer. Percocet contains Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance.
“Medical providers and their employees have a duty to put patient’s interests ahead of their own and not take advantage of their employment situation for personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “The defendant in this case fraudulently obtained multiple controlled substances for herself and others without a valid prescription. This office will continue to hold those accountable who commit such selfish acts.”
Bossier faces a maximum sentence of not more than four years in prison, one year of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing has been set for February 10, 2023 at 11:00.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook.
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Illegal Possession of Firearm Lands Shreveport Man in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - Troy Lee Washington, 27, of Shreveport, Louisiana, has been sentenced in U.S. District Court, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Washington today to 48 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm. Washington was indicted by a federal grand jury, and he pleaded guilty to the charge on June 8, 2022.
The charge stems from an incident that occurred on July 27, 2021 when Washington was arrested for having an active arrest warrant through Louisiana Probation and Parole. Officers with the Shreveport Police Department conducted a traffic stop of Washington’s vehicle on that date and during the stop, observed a pistol protruding from underneath his driver’s seat. The firearm was seized by officers and found to be loaded with 19 rounds of ammunition in an extended magazine. It was later identified as a Glock .357 pistol and law enforcement agents found that it had been reported stolen. DNA taken from the pistol was tested and found to be a match with Washington’s DNA.
Washington has prior felony convictions, including six counts of simple burglary and nine counts of attempted simple burglary in 2016, and illegal possession of stolen things in 2014. These felony convictions prohibit him from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Shreveport Police Department, and Louisiana Probation and Parole, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian C. Flanagan.
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Distribution of Methamphetamine Sends Many, Louisiana Man to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing of a Many, Louisiana man in federal court today. United States District Judge Donald E. Walter sentenced Damien Medlock, 36, to 151 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Medlock was indicted in June 2021 and pleaded guilty to the charge on May 16, 2022.
The charge is the result of an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation dubbed “Pick Your Battles” by law enforcements agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Sabine Parish Narcotics Task Force in the Sabine Parish area. This incident occurred on May 31, 2021, when agents learned through their investigation that Medlock sold methamphetamine to an individual. Following the sale of the methamphetamine, law enforcement agents arrested Medlock.
A search warrant was obtained for his residence in Many and later that day agents executed that search warrant. During their search of the residence, agents discovered approximately 1,286 grams of narcotics in various containers in the kitchen, along with three digital scales, baggies and a drug ledger that was found in the living area. The narcotics were taken to the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory and tested and confirmed to contain methamphetamine with a total weight of 1,287.8 grams.
The case was investigated by the FBI and Sabine Parish Narcotics Task Force and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford. This effort is part of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Lafayette Man Pleads Guilty to Kidnapping a Gay Man as Part of Scheme to Kidnap and Murder Grindr UsersRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Chance Seneca, 21, of Lafayette, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Robert Summerhays, to one count of kidnapping.
According to his plea agreement, Seneca admitted that on June 20, 2020, he used Grindr, a dating application for gay and bisexual men, to kidnap and attempt to murder H.W., a gay man. Specifically, Seneca acknowledged that he used Grindr to propose a meeting with H.W., and that he drove H.W. to an isolated house, took out a handgun and told him to put on handcuffs. Seneca then attempted to murder and dismember H.W. Seneca acknowledged that he intended to murder and dismember H.W. for the purpose of satisfying his homicidal urges, and that he had planned to continue murdering until he was caught or killed.
“The actions and intentions of the defendant in this case were shocking,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The internet should be accessible and safe for all Americans, regardless of their gender or sexual orientation. The Justice Department will continue to identify and hold accountable anyone who uses online spaces as a means to terrorize or abuse others.”
“The facts surrounding the events that took place in this case are very disturbing,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown for the Western District of Louisiana. “It is nothing short of miraculous that the victims who endured the vicious attacks from this defendant survived. We will continue to fight to seek justice for victims who suffer at the hands of defendants such as this.”
The statutory maximum for the kidnapping offense is life imprisonment. Seneca faces additional exposure under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines if the sentencing court finds beyond a reasonable doubt that he intentionally selected the victim because of the victim’s actual or perceived gender or sexual orientation. Sentencing is scheduled for January 25, 2023.
Assistant Attorney General Clarke, U.S. Attorney Brown and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. for the FBI New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI and the Lafayette Police Department conducted the investigation. This case is being prosecuted by Deputy Criminal Chief Myers Namie of the Western District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Thomas Johnson of the Civil Rights Division.
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Containerboard Manufacturer Will Pay $2.5M for Violating Clean Air Act at its Louisiana MillRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Packaging Corporation of America (PCA), headquartered in Illinois, has agreed to pay $2.5 million in civil penalties to resolve allegations that it violated the Clean Air Act’s General Duty Clause and Risk Management Program Regulations at its containerboard production mill in DeRidder, Louisiana.
In the complaint, filed today with the proposed settlement, the United States and the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ) allege nine Clean Air Act violations that stem, in part, from a fatal explosion and accidental release at the DeRidder mill on February 8, 2017. The explosion – which killed three workers and injured seven others – launched a 100,000-gallon storage tank into the air and over a six-story building before it landed on mill equipment approximately 400 feet away. The blast also caused property damage and released extremely hazardous substances into the environment. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) inspected the DeRidder mill after the explosion and uncovered additional Clean Air Act violations.
“PCA violated the Clean Air Act and accompanying regulations at its DeRidder mill, resulting in an explosion that caused the senseless deaths of three workers, while placing other workers and the surrounding community in danger,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environmental and Natural Resources Division. “The Department will continue enforcing environmental mandates to save lives and protect air quality — especially against companies with a history of misconduct, like PCA.”
“The Clean Air Act was created to provide guidelines for companies such as PCA to adhere to in order to keep our communities safe from hazardous substances,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon Brown for the Western District of Louisiana. “Sadly, it took an explosion and the loss of lives to highlight PCA’s failure to adhere to some of these guidelines. The Civil Division in the Western District of Louisiana has an important job and welcomes the opportunity to continue to work alongside our federal and local partners to ensure these laws are abided by.”
“This case demonstrates the tragic impacts to human life and the environment that can result from failures to follow appropriate chemical accident prevention and preparation requirements,” said Larry Starfield, Acting Assistant Administrator for EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “This settlement both holds the Packaging Corporation of America accountable for failures that contributed to this accident and sends a clear message to corporations across the country on the importance of implementing appropriate chemical safety measures.”
“This settlement holds Packaging Corporation of America accountable for the harm it has caused to the environment and to the individuals who lost their lives on Feb. 8, 2017,” said Dr. Earthea Nance, EPA Region 6 Administrator. “Legal action will be pursued for companies who fail to safeguard their workers’ well-being. We offer our condolences for all individuals affected by this tragedy.”
“We join with our federal partners in taking action to ensure that this tragic occurrence is properly addressed,” said Dr. Chuck Carr Brown, LDEQ Secretary. “Those responsible must be held accountable.”
Section 112(r) of the Clean Air Act and its accompanying regulations are designed to prevent the accidental release of hazardous substances, like those at the DeRidder mill. Congress added section 112(r) in response to the 1984 catastrophic release of methyl isocyanate in Bhopal, India, that killed more than 3,400 people and injured more than 200,000 others. Under the Clean Air Act, facilities like PCA’s are required to identify hazards, design and maintain a safe facility, minimize the consequences of accidental releases that do occur, and comply with regulatory prevention measures. Failing to comply with these requirements increases the risk of accidents and threatens surrounding communities.
Reducing the risk to human health and the environment by decreasing the likelihood of chemical accidents at chemical facilities is a top priority for EPA’s enforcement and compliance assurance program.
The proposed stipulation of settlement is subject to a 45-day public comment period and court review and approval. A copy of the stipulation of settlement is available on the Department of Justice website at www.justice.gov/enrd/Consent_Decrees.html.
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Possession of Suspicious Package Containing Heroin Sends Jena Man to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that John Monroe Cameron, 45, of Jena, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge David C. Joseph for possession of heroin. Cameron was sentenced to 46 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
Cameron was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 9, 2022 and charged with possession with intent to distribute heroin. On June 28, 2022, he pled guilty to that charge. The charge stemmed from an investigation into an incident that occurred on February 8, 2022 when a law enforcement agent with the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) discovered a suspicious parcel at the Shreveport Postal Service. The package was addressed to an individual in Jonesville, Louisiana from a sender in Pharr, Texas. A search warrant was obtained for the package and executed on that same day. During the execution of the warrant, the law enforcement agents found approximately 2.2 pounds of suspected black tar heroin.
Agents determined that the address on the package was an abandoned residence. Law enforcement agents went to the address to conduct a controlled delivery of the package. Upon arrival to the area, the agents observed a pickup truck blocking the road. The occupant, later identified as Cameron, exited the truck and approached the agents and told them they were at the correct address and took the package. Agents left the scene but through surveillance observed Cameron take the package to a nearby wooded area where he opened it.
The case was investigated by the USPIS and Cameron Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tennille M. Gilreath.
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Couple from Many, Louisiana Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Elena E. Rivers, 30, and Tryton Alonzo Thomas, 33, both of Many, Louisiana, have been sentenced for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine in the Sabine Parish area. United States District Judge Donald E. Walter sentenced the defendants as follows:
Thomas was sentenced to 262 months (21 years, 10 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Rivers was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Sabine Parish Tactical Narcotics Team began an investigation into the drug trafficking activities in the Many, Louisiana area. According to evidence presented to the court, Thomas sold methamphetamine to numerous individuals. Specifically, law enforcement agents obtained video evidence in September 2021, when Thomas sold over 100 grams of methamphetamine on four occasions. On September 29, 2021, agents observed Rivers drive Thomas from her house to conduct a drug transaction. When Thomas and Rivers arrived, law enforcement agents attempted to make a traffic stop but Rivers placed the car in gear and fled the scene. As she fled, she narrowly missed hitting two deputies who were on foot. During the chase that ensued, deputies observed Thomas throw a bag containing a white substance from the car. Deputies were able to locate and recover the bag which contained methamphetamine. Rivers and Thomas were apprehended by law enforcement agents. Following the chase, deputies executed a search warrant on Rivers’ residence and discovered methamphetamine, marijuana, 60 ecstasy pills, and numerous prescription drugs.
The case was investigated by the FBI and the Sabine Parish Tactical Narcotics Team and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody. This effort is part of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Two Drug Traffickers Receive Federal Prison Sentences Totaling over 30 YearsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Two defendants have been sentenced for their involvement in the trafficking of methamphetamine in the Shreveport/Bossier City area, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. United States District Judge Donald E. Walter sentenced both defendants as follows:
Justin Lamar Shealey, 40, of Bossier City, Louisiana, was sentenced to 210 months (17 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, on drug trafficking charges. His co-defendant, John Chaz Bernos, 39, was previously sentenced on August 26, 2022 to spend 162 months (13 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Shealey and Bernos each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. On February 24, 2021, Louisiana State Police troopers conducted a traffic stop of Bernos. At the time of the stop, Bernos had an active arrest warrant outstanding. Troopers searched the vehicle Bernos was driving and discovered methamphetamine, marijuana, testosterone, and other assorted prescription pills. Bernos was arrested and later admitted to law enforcement officers with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) that he purchased the methamphetamine and had intended to distribute to others. The methamphetamine was sent to the DEA laboratory for analysis and determined to be 61.8 grams of pure methamphetamine.
Further investigation led DEA agents to Shealey after learning he had sold methamphetamine out of his vehicle. Agents found Shealey at a local casino and received consent to search his vehicle. Inside, they found that he had over 600 grams of methamphetamine in the vehicle. Shealey later admitted to agents that he had been purchasing the methamphetamine in the Dallas area and would bring it back to the Shreveport/Bossier City area for distribution.
This case was investigated by the DEA and Louisiana State Police and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody.
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Jury Convicts Man of Bankruptcy Fraud and Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that a federal jury in Lake Charles returned a guilty verdict late yesterday against Joseph Randall Boswell, Sr., 53, of Elizabeth, Louisiana, following a week-long trial. Boswell was convicted of one count of bankruptcy fraud and one count of tax evasion. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. presided over the trial.
According to evidence presented during the trial, Boswell knowingly and fraudulently concealed property from the United States Bankruptcy Trustee and his creditors through his Chapter 7 Bankruptcy case which he filed in September 2011. Specifically, Boswell concealed monies earned from nominee business and service contracts that could have been paid to his creditors. Boswell attempted to defraud the government by withholding information from the Bankruptcy Court regarding the amount of income he was actually making and property he had an interest in. Boswell was self-employed and withheld information from the court as to companies that he had control of through other family members. Evidence introduced at trial showed that these companies were established in the names of other family members in an attempt to hide the fact that Boswell was controlling and manipulating the business activities for these companies and earning income through contracts negotiated by him.
Boswell was also convicted of attempting to evade and defeat payment of income taxes due and owing by him for the tax years 2001 through 2009. The jury determined that Boswell concealed assets from the Internal Revenue Service by putting them in the names of other family members in order to avoid paying income taxes owed by him of over $597,000.
“This was a complicated case that involved countless hours of work by both attorneys from this office, agents with the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and employees with the U.S. Trustee’s Office,” stated U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “Those who defraud the government through bankruptcy proceedings and attempt to avoid paying the income tax they owe are a burden to citizens who obey these laws. We will not back down from prosecuting cases involving this type of fraud and are committed to ensuring that these laws are not violated.”
“Yesterday’s guilty verdict is a direct result of the excellent partnership IRS-CI and the U.S. Attorney’s office has in combating violations of Federal law," said Demetrius D. Hardeman, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. "This guilty verdict should serve as a deterrent to those who might contemplate similar fraudulent actions and who willfully violate their known legal duty of paying their fair share of taxes.”
Boswell faces a sentence of up to 5 years in prison and three years of supervised release on each count, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing has been set for January 23, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.
The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, and the United States Trustee’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cytheria D. Jernigan and Earl M. Campbell.
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Monroe Man in Possession of Firearm at Local High School Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Montrelle D. Jones, 21, of Monroe, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty to 78 months (6 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, on firearm charges. Jones was indicted by a federal grand jury on January 26, 2022 and charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and possession of a firearm in a school zone. He pleaded guilty to the charges on March 28, 2022.
These charges stem from an incident on January 14, 2022, when a Monroe Police Department officer who was working off-duty security at the Neville High School basketball game on the school campus was alerted by several individuals that there were a group of males fighting outside in front of the gym. As the off-duty officer made his way outside to break up the fight, he observed approximately 30 individuals who were in an agitated state gathering in the foyer of the gym. The officer immediately went inside the foyer and observed Jones lift up his shirt with his left hand and saw he had a Glock-style handgun with an extended magazine secured in his waistband. The officer went to Jones and placed one hand on the weapon and the other on his shoulder and brought him to the nearest wall. He placed Jones’ gun on the floor and took Jones into custody. The officer observed several people flee from the foyer. Jones was escorted to the police vehicle and secured. The gun was taken into evidence and identified as a Glock Model 17, 9mm pistol.
At the time of Jones’ arrest, he was the subject of a court order which had been issued in Ouachita Parish, Louisiana on June 25, 2021 restraining him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner. That order included a finding that Jones was a credible threat to the physical safety of the intimate partner, which prohibited him from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Monroe Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford.
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Jury Convicts Man of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – A federal jury in Alexandria, Louisiana has returned a guilty verdict today convicting Bobby Joe Mincey, 30, of aggravated sexual abuse of a minor, United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced. United States District Judge Dee D. Drell presided over the three-day trial.
In December 2019, Mincey was living with his wife at the time, who was a soldier in the U.S. Army and stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana. During this time, Mincey and his wife and her two minor daughters were living in Base Housing at Fort Polk. On December 6, 2019, the two stepdaughters of Mincey, who were ages 6 and 9 at the time, confided to their mother that Mincey had been sexually abusing them. The mother immediately contacted the Fort Polk Military Police and reported the allegations made by her daughters. Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) consequently began an investigation into the allegations and interviewed both of the female minor victims about the incidents that had taken place. In May 2021, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Mincey with aggravated sexual abuse.
The trial began Wednesday, September 7, 2022. The minor victims testified at trial that Mincey sexually abused them day after day beginning from the time that they were 5 and 6 years old. They testified that Mincey would force them to perform oral sex on him.
“The aggravated sexual abuse of a minor is an incomprehensible act, and these are cases that we will not shy away from prosecuting,” stated USA Brown. “The bravery shown by these minor victims who were willing to stand up to their abuser in court and tell the truth as to what happened to them is nothing short of heroic. These types of crimes will not be tolerated in the Western District of Louisiana. The tireless work by the FBI and U.S. Army, Criminal Investigation Division, for their work in this case is to be commended and we will continue to work to fight for victims such as this.”
Mincey faces a minimum sentence of 30 years in prison and a maximum of life in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing has been set for December 9, 2022.
The case was investigated by the FBI and United States Army, Criminal Investigation Division and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Luke Walker and LaDonte A. Murphy.
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St. Martinville Man Sentenced for Possession of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Irvin J. Butler, 41, of St. Martinville, Louisiana, was sentenced today. United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced him to 151 months (12 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, on drug trafficking charges. Butler pleaded guilty on May 20, 2022 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On March 26, 2019, agents with the United States Postal Inspection Service intercepted a suspicious package which had been mailed from Arizona to an address in Lafayette, Louisiana. Agents deployed a canine trained in detecting narcotics who positively alerted on the seized package. A search warrant was obtained and later that day, agents conducted a controlled delivery of the package to the residence at the location specified by the sender. After the package was delivered, a female appeared and took possession of it. Agents were able to execute the search warrant and confirmed that the package contained approximately 1,858 grams of methamphetamine.
Further investigation by agents revealed that Butler had made two wire transfers to an individual in Arizona and had been tracking the package via the internet after it had been placed in the mail in Arizona. The female who took possession of the package admitted to agents that she had been dating Butler and he had packages sent to her residence. In addition, Butler sent a text message to the girlfriend that the package would be delivered to her residence that day. The seized substance was sent to the Acadiana Criminalistics Laboratory for analysis and the results confirmed that the substance was in fact methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon.
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Shreveport Businesswoman Pleads Guilty in CARES Act Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Janola Massaquoi, 41, of Shreveport, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to making false statements to a federal agency.
In March 2020 Congress enacted the Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act which was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who were suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of the CARES Act, the Small Business Administration (SBA) provided Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which were low-interest financing to small businesses, renters and homeowners in regions affected by declared disasters. The CARES Act also provided authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through a program referred to as the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”).
According to evidence presented to the court, Massaquoi formed the Jane Elizabeth Education Group (JEEG) in 2018 and also served as the president of a beauty career training company. In 2020, Massaquoi applied to the SBA for an EIDL in the name of JEEG d/b/a Company 1 seeking approximately $500,000 in EIDL Program funds. At the same time, she applied for a PPP loan in the name of JEEG d/b/a Company 1 seeking $178,750.
On or about April 20, 2020, as part of the EIDL application process, Massaquoi electronically submitted to the SBA a Loan Authorization and Agreement in which she certified to the SBA that “[JEEG] will not, without the prior written consent of SBA, make any distribution of Borrower’s assets, or give any preferential treatment, make any advance, directly or indirectly, by way of loan, gift, bonus, or otherwise to any owner or partner…” Massaquoi also certified that the loan funds would be used solely as working capital for JEEG.
Both loan applications were subsequently approved. Based on Massaquoi’s material misrepresentations set forth in the false Loan Authorization and Agreement, the SBA disbursed approximately $500,000 in EIDL benefits to a bank account held by Company 1. On April 23, 2020, approximately $178,750 in PPP loan benefits were disbursed to a bank account held by Company 1.
In reality and unbeknownst to the SBA, Massaquoi intended to make a large advance directly to herself and did not intend to use the EIDL funds solely as working capital for JEEG. After obtaining the loan benefits, Massaquoi transferred funds from Company 1’s bank account to other bank accounts she personally controlled and used the funds for a variety of personal expenses including a down payment on the purchase of a personal residence and mortgage payments. Massaquoi also withdrew over $30,000 in cash, transferred over $50,000 to friends and family members, and used approximately $83,000 to fund her personal investment and retirement accounts. In total, Massaquoi used $250,000 of the EIDL proceeds for her personal use.
“This defendant took advantage of taxpayer dollars at one of the most vulnerable times in American history,” stated U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “Over the last few years, small businesses have struggled to survive during the pandemic. Massaquoi exploited an opportunity given by the government to provide legitimate financial assistance to said businesses. Individuals who commit such fraud will be investigated and ultimately prosecuted. We will continue to work with our federal partners who have allocated their investigative resources toward combating this type of fraud.”
Massaquoi faces a sentence of not more than 5 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing has been set for January 11, 2023.
The case was investigated by the Department of Treasury-Inspector General for Tax Administration and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Illegal Possession of Firearm Sends Rayne Man to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - Lamar Malbrough, 31, of Rayne, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown.
According to evidence presented to the court, on August 11, 2021, Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Malbrough as the result of an active state arrest warrant after conducting a traffic stop of the vehicle he was driving. Malbrough was found to have various amounts and types of drugs, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana, as well as a firearm, in his possession at the time of his arrest. He has prior felony convictions for attempted possession of a firearm by a felon (2020); simple burglary (2009); and possession with intent to distribute cocaine (2008) and knew that as a convicted felon, he was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. On April 20, 2022, Malbrough pleaded guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel. It is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Drug Trafficker Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Methamphetamine and a FirearmRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – Ryan Spencer George, 37, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. George was sentenced by United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. to 108 months (9 years) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. George pleaded guilty on May 26, 2022 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
On March 31, 2020, detectives with the Combined Anti-Drug Task Force were assisting the Lake Charles Police Department and conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle being driven by George. Subsequent to his arrest, law enforcement officers found multiple plastic bags containing at least 25 grams of methamphetamine, a small digital scale and a wallet containing various denominations of U.S. Currency inside the front pocket of his pants. George admitted to officers that the bags contained methamphetamine and that some of the money was gained from selling narcotics. While searching George’s vehicle, officers found a loaded SCCY 9mm pistol on the floorboard between the driver’s seat and the console.
Further investigation by law enforcement revealed that George had multiple prior felony convictions, including distribution of methamphetamine (2015) and possession of a weapon by a convicted felon (2018), prohibiting him from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Lake Charles Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. Vermaelen.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Drug Trafficker Receives 15+ Year Sentence for Possession of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Michael C. Francis, 37, of Bossier City, Louisiana, has been sentenced in United States District Court. Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Francis to 188 months (15 years, 8 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, on drug trafficking charges.
Beginning in March 2019, and continuing until on or about December 31, 2019, Francis and eight other defendants were involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy and pleaded guilty to possessing and distributing methamphetamine in the Caddo and Bossier Parish areas. Law enforcement officers began an investigation into their illegal drug trafficking activities and were able to obtain a court ordered wiretap on one of his co-defendants, Demetrius Deangelo Hall’s, cell phone. Through numerous intercepted communications, agents learned that Hall was communicating with Francis and others. Hall and Francis discussed providing each other with various amounts of methamphetamine on numerous occasions.
During the investigation, on October 21, 2019, law enforcement agents intercepted phone calls and text messages between Hall and his co-conspirators indicating that Hall was traveling to Texas to obtain more methamphetamine from co-defendant Steve Mireles. During these intercepted calls, Francis was heard discussing the price of methamphetamine for Francis’ part and that he would have to pay for the courier fee. On February 22, 2021, Francis pled guilty to possessing with intent to distribute at least 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the DEA, ATF, Shreveport Police Department, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, Greenwood Police Department, and Louisiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tennille Gilreath and Allison Duncan. This effort is part of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Calcasieu Parish Man Sentenced on Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Shane Robinson, 28, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. to 180 months (15 years) in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, on child pornography charges. Robinson was indicted by a federal grand jury in Lafayette and charged with production of child pornography and pleaded guilty to the charge on May 26, 2022.
Robinson was identified by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) as a person who may be possessing or distributing child pornography. Law enforcement agents obtained a search warrant and seized Robinson’s cell phone. On the cell phone, agents found sexually explicit images of a 4-year old child which Robinson had produced using the cell phone. In fact, Robinson can be seen in one of the sexually explicit images. Law enforcement agents questioned Robinson and he admitted to producing the images using his cell phone.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security – Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Luke Walker.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Shreveport Police Department Officer Indicted by Federal Grand Jury for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that a Shreveport Police Department (SPD) officer has been indicted by a federal grand jury. The indictment, which was returned today, charges James Cisco, 51, of Shreveport, with six counts of wire fraud.
The indictment alleges that beginning on or about January 6, 2020, and continuing through on or about at least January 19, 2021, Cisco knowingly devised a scheme to defraud the City of Shreveport out of funds which were designated for overtime pay to SPD officers. It is alleged that Cisco claimed overtime for which he had not worked and received payments for unworked overtime.
It is alleged in the indictment that Cisco submitted falsified reports to the SPD stating he worked overtime hours for the SPD on the Community-Based Crime Reduction (CBCR) Grant and certified that he had worked the hours. It is further alleged in the indictment that on three of the dates Cisco submitted falsified reports, the SPD mobile device assigned to him was in the East Texas area during the same period he claimed to be working overtime in Shreveport for the SPD. The indictment also alleges that on five other occasions, Cisco submitted falsified reports claiming to have worked overtime, and records show that he was working at an off-duty job for another company at the same time.
The Innovations in Community-Based Crime Reduction (CBCR) Program is administered by the Department of Justice and seeks to reduce crime and improve community safety in distressed, high-crime neighborhoods. As part of the program, CBCR awards grants to local and tribal communities to be used for overtime for police officers. The City of Shreveport received a CBCR award grant which was used in 2020 to pay for officers with the SPD to work overtime details and provided officers with 1.5 times their regular rate of pay for overtime hours worked.
An indictment is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
If convicted, Cisco faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
This is an ongoing investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Justice-Office of Inspector General and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg.
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Possession of Methamphetamine and Firearms Leads to 15-Year Sentence for Hahnville ManRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – Delon Scott, 34, of Hahnville, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Scott was sentenced to 180 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, on drug trafficking and possession of firearms charges.
Scott pleaded guilty May 17, 2022 to a Bill of Information charging him with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to evidence presented to the court, Scott was stopped by a Mangham, Louisiana police officer on December 8, 2020 for speeding. During the course of the traffic stop, law enforcement officers developed probable cause to search the vehicle. Inside the vehicle, officers found methamphetamine, a pocket scale and Ziploc bags. In addition, the following four firearms were found underneath the hood of the vehicle: a Taurus 9mm pistol, a Glock 9mm pistol, a FEG PA-63 9x18mm pistol, and a Smith and Wesson Bodyguard .380 pistol.
The seized narcotics were sent to the North Louisiana Criminalistics Laboratory for analysis and their testing confirmed that the amount of pure methamphetamine exceeded 50 grams.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office and Mangham Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Cassidy.
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Illegal Possession of Firearm Leads to Time in Federal Prison for Carencro ManRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Kentrell Laday, 20, of Carencro, Louisiana was sentenced today for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced. United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Laday to 100 months (12 years, 4 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
Laday was charged in an indictment in July 2021 with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and pleaded guilty to the charge on March 8, 2022. According to information presented to the court, law enforcement officers observed Laday and a known associate of his exit a vehicle parked at a residence in Lafayette, Louisiana. Officers detained Laday and advised him of his Miranda rights. Officers looked inside the vehicle that had been occupied by Laday to ensure no other occupants were in the vehicle and observed a firearm along with a small cellophane bag containing marijuana on the driver’s seat of the vehicle in plain view. A search warrant was obtained for the vehicle and officers seized a loaded Springfield XD-9 handgun with 17 rounds of ammunition. Laday admitted that the marijuana and firearm belonged to him.
On June 8, 2021, Laday pled guilty to domestic abuse battery in Lafayette, Louisiana and because of this conviction, was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Lafayette Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Five Remaining Defendants in OCDETF Operation Sentenced in Federal CourtRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that five defendants who were indicted as a result of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) “Operation Lost and Found” have been sentenced by United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote for their involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy.
Timothy Ryan Melton, 31, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced to 151 months (12 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Billy Bryan Feroben, 33, of Cabot, Arkansas, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Brent Demonde Smith, Jr., 36, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Serina Khan, 24, of Shreveport, was sentenced to 120 months (10 years) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Khan pleaded guilty March 4, 2022 to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Robert J. Merritt, 39, of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced to 151 months (12 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
In July 2020, agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began an investigation into drug trafficking activities in the Cedar Grove area after receiving information that their co-defendant, Demetrius Loston, was distributing large amounts of methamphetamine in the Shreveport area. This OCDETF investigation resulted in federal indictments against nine defendants for conspiring together to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
During their investigation, agents were able to intercept multiple phone calls between Loston, Merritt, Smith and Khan, wherein they communicated at different times about buying and selling methamphetamine. Law enforcement agents conducted surveillance and observed both Smith and Khan meet Loston on more than one occasion at a pre-determined location and either pick up, drop off, or exchange methamphetamine for money.
Law enforcement agents were able to establish that Merritt was a source of supply of methamphetamine through the interception of phone calls. Agents monitored a meeting between Merritt and Loston and obtained video surveillance from Loston’s residence showing Merritt walking a shoe box from his vehicle into the carport of the residence. This evidence was consistent with the intercepted phone calls between the two defendants. Merritt was arrested shortly after that meeting.
Billy Bryan Feroben was also involved in the purchase of methamphetamine from Loston and would then sell and distribute to others for profit. A search warrant was executed at a residence in Shreveport in August 2020 and agents made contact with Feroben at that time. In the trunk of his car, agents found over 200 gross grams of methamphetamine and firearms. Feroben admitted to agents that he would meet Loston at a gas station to purchase the methamphetamine for distribution.
On August 24, 2020, Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. The deputy approached the vehicle and the driver, Timothy Ryan Melton, could only provide an identification card. Deputies asked Melton to exit the vehicle and conducted a pat down search and were given permission to search the vehicle. Deputies seized a large amount of cash and methamphetamine from the center console. The methamphetamine was packaged for street level distribution. Melton admitted that the drugs were his and that he had been working with Loston to purchase the methamphetamine for distribution to others for profit.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA, ATF, Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford.
This effort is part of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Defendant Sentenced for Transportation of Destructive DevicesRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Furmon Earl Bozeman, 61, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 19 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for transportation of destructive devices in violation of the National Firearms Act.
According to evidence presented to the court, during the night of January 10, 2022, Bozeman drove from his residence in Gulf Shores, Alabama to Nabors Offshore Corporation (Nabors) in New Iberia, Louisiana. Upon arrival at Nabors, Bozeman placed and detonated at least three pipe bombs at various sites on the Nabors’ property. The bombs were placed at the Nabors signage located near Admiral Doyle Drive, at the main entrance to Nabors’ human resource offices, and at the Nabors signage located directly outside of the front door of the Nabors’ main building. The pipe bombs that he used contained double based smokeless powder inside of galvanized steel pipes and endcaps. These three devices met the definition of destructive devices, commonly referred to as pipe bombs.
Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) executed a search warrant at Bozeman’s residence on January 12, 2022 and found in his home additional bomb making materials, a book titled, Flash Powder Cookbook, as well as several rounds of ammunition, firearms and Hogdon smokeless powder. Bozeman admitted to transportation of the bombs from his home in Alabama to Louisiana.
The case was investigated by the ATF, FBI, Department of Homeland Security, Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office, Louisiana State Police, and Chitimacha Police K9 Unit, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel.
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Haughton Man Convicted of Possessing a Firearm While in the United States IllegallyRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Evaristo Contreras-Silva, 49, of Haughton, Louisiana, has been found guilty by a jury in United States District Court in Shreveport of possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. The jury returned the guilty verdict yesterday afternoon. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote presided over the two-day trial.
Contreras-Silva was indicted on March 9, 2022 for illegally possessing a firearm while residing illegally in the United States. The facts at trial established that Contreras-Silva, a citizen of Mexico, entered the United States on a date unknown, but the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office encountered him in Haughton, Louisiana in February 2022 when it arrested Contreras-Silva for domestic abuse battery of a pregnant victim. The Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office notified the Department of Homeland Security and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives that it had arrested Contreras-Silva and that it believed he had a firearm in his truck. After that, federal agents searched Contreras-Silva’s truck and residence, discovering a loaded 9mm pistol and multiple rounds of 5.56 ammunition.
Contreras-Silva faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentencing has been set for December 13, 2022 at 9:30 a.m.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security – Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leon H. Whitten and William Gaskins.
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Convicted Felon Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Firearm and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Tyrus Brooks, 34, of Scott, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge David C. Joseph to 115 months (9 years, 7 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Brooks was charged in an indictment on November 18, 2021 and pleaded guilty on April 29, 2022 to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
On March 9, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Brooks’ residence. During their search, officers recovered multiple controlled substances and a Glock .380 caliber firearm and ammunition belonging to Brooks. An analysis was conducted of the seized substances, and they were found to contain methamphetamine with a gross weight of 117 grams.
Brooks has prior felony convictions for attempted possession with intent to distribute cocaine (2011), possession of methamphetamine (2017) and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon (2018).
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, ATF, and Lafayette Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel J. McCoy.
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Vivian Man Sentenced for Assaulting Postal CarrierRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – A Vivian man has been sentenced for assaulting a postal carrier, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Derrick J. Thomas, 28, of Vivian, Louisiana, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 137 months (11 years, 5 months) in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment in September 2021 charging Thomas with assault with a deadly weapon and he pleaded guilty to the charge on March 22, 2022. According to information presented to the court, on August 12, 2021, a rural carrier associate working at the Vivian Post Office began servicing her mail route in Vivian which she had been doing for two years. Shortly after starting the route that morning, the rural postal carrier passed Thomas sitting outside his residence (which was an abandoned residence) and parked nearby to begin to deliver mail to the street.
Soon after, the postal carrier got back into her vehicle and began driving but stopped after being flagged down by Thomas. Thomas had a 10” butcher knife hidden on his person and stabbed the postal carrier, who was 5 months pregnant at the time, in the right front shoulder. The carrier hit the accelerator and fled the scene before Thomas could stab a second time. The incident was reported to the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and after an investigation, Thomas was charged with assault with a deadly weapon.
“Our federal employees and contractors must feel safe while in the course and scope of their employment,” stated U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “This is especially true when our employees are working in rural areas where law enforcement resources are limited. This defendant, without provocation, committed a violent, inexcusable crime and deserves every day in the jail that the court gave him. We will continue to prosecute those who commit such heinous acts against federal workers.”
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana State Police, and the Vivian Police Department, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cytheria D. Jernigan.
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Lake Charles Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that James J. Julian, 37, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. for illegal possession of a firearm. Julian was sentenced to 84 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
Julian was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and pleaded guilty to the charge on May 3, 2022. The charge stems from an incident that occurred on March 3, 2020 when Julian got into an altercation with a female at her residence in Lake Charles. During their argument, Julian produced a silver revolver and pointed it at the female. There were children present who witnessed the incident and one child intervened until Julian left the residence on foot with the firearm. Law enforcement officers were called to the residence, and they searched for Julian. Behind the victim’s residence was an abandoned dwelling and officers located a silver High Standard .22 caliber revolver pistol and the victim was able to identify the firearm as being the one that Julian had pointed at her. Julian admitted to law enforcement officers that he had the firearm in his possession. He has a prior felony conviction for distribution of cocaine in 2014 and knew that he was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the ATF and Lake Charles Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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Employee of Cottonport Housing Authority Pleads Guilty to Theft of Federal Program FundsRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Lisa G. Cooper, 55, of Cottonport, Louisiana, has pleaded guilty to federal program theft. The hearing was held today before United States District Judge Dee D. Drell.
According to evidence presented to the court, Cooper was employed by, and an agent of, the Cottonport Housing Authority (“CHA”), which is a local government agency that provides subsidized housing to low income individuals. The CHA received more than $10,000 per year in 2017, 2018 and 2019 from the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) in the form of capital funds and operating subsidies.
In 2019, a routine financial audit was conducted, and it revealed some accounting discrepancies at the CHA, specifically, that from 2017 through 2019, tenant payments were being diverted from the CHA. Further investigation revealed that Cooper had been embezzling funds from the CHA. While acting as an agent of the CHA, Cooper had been collecting rental payments on behalf of the agency from the CHA’s tenants in the form of money orders, with the payee and payor sections of the money orders left blank. Cooper would then enter her name as the payee and deposit the money orders into her personal bank accounts. The investigation revealed that approximately $30,079.05 in money orders was deposited into her personal bank accounts from 2017 through 2019.
Cooper admitted at today’s hearing that she acted as an agent of the CHA and embezzled and stole property from the CHA which she was not entitled to receive. She faces a sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.
“This local government agency was there to assist low income individuals and this defendant’s choice to steal these funds for her own personal benefit is appalling,” stated U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “These types of crimes are ones that we will continue to pursue and prosecute.”
“This investigation represents our continuing resolve to address instances of fraud involving HUD programs,” said Bertrand Nelson, Special Agent in Charge, HUD, Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work diligently with the U.S. Attorney’s Office to protect the integrity of our programs and take swift action against those who embezzle funds intended for those most vulnerable in our communities.”
The case was investigated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Daniel Siefker.
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Shreveport Man Sentenced on Federal Charge of Second Degree Murder of U.S. Postal Service EmployeeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Michael Jarred Gentry, 33, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. on a charge of second degree murder. Gentry was sentenced to 480 months (40 years) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
On June 22, 2019, Antonio Williams, a U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier, was delivering mail in Shreveport. Shortly after 11:00 a.m., Williams was carrying mail to an apartment on Dudley Drive. Inside that apartment was Gentry, armed with a semi-automatic rifle. As Williams approached the apartment, Gentry fired four shots through the front door, striking Williams twice. Mr. Williams was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital shortly thereafter.
Gentry entered his guilty plea to the charge of second degree murder on March 21, 2022 and the United States and Gentry agreed to the stipulated sentence of 40 years in prison.
“This is a difficult day for the family and friends of Antonio Williams,” stated U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “This family has suffered the tragic loss of a father and husband who cannot be replaced. Although we know that this sentence will not fill the void that these family members and friends have suffered, we hope that it brings them some comfort knowing that this defendant will serve such a lengthy sentence in federal prison where there is no parole. I would like to thank the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their efforts in assisting with this investigation, as well as the Shreveport Police Department and federal agents with the ATF. It was because of their quick response and thorough investigation that we were able to bring this defendant to justice.”
“The sentencing of Michael Gentry for the murder of postal employee Antonio Williams brings to an end the investigation of a heinous crime,” said Scott Fix, Inspector in Charge of the Houston Division of the USPIS. “The safety and well-being of Postal Service employees is a top priority for the Postal Inspection Service, and every act of violence elicits an immediate and firm response. Postal Inspectors worked tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to seek justice for the victim and his family.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Shreveport Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and was prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Shannon.
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Many, LA Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Narcotics and Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Ronald Carnell Holland, Jr., 24, of Many, Louisiana, was sentenced today on drug trafficking and firearms charges, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Holland was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. to 111 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
Merritt pleaded guilty on March 7, 2022 to one count of possession of flualprazolam with intent to distribute and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. These charges are the result of a search warrant that was executed on April 14, 2021 at Holland’s residence in Many, Louisiana. Law enforcement officers found three loaded pistols, as well as a high-capacity drum magazine loaded with 48 rounds of ammunition. In addition, officers recovered 2,000 flualprazolam pills, cash, boxes of various ammunition, clear plastic baggies, and a scale.
The case was investigated by the ATF and the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown and Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell.
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Two Men Who Chose to Flee from Police are Sentenced for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. – Two young men from Shreveport were sentenced late yesterday to federal prison for firearms violations, United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced. Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced the two men as follows:
Shelby Alvin Chapple, 30, of Shreveport, was sentenced to 84 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
On October 18, 2020, a Shreveport Police officer patrolling Hollywood Avenue shortly after midnight attempted to stop a car after observing it swerve across the center dividing line multiple times. When the officer activated his cruiser’s overhead lights and siren, the car refused to pull over and, instead, drove through several red lights at high speed. The car eventually turned down a residential street and shutoff its running lights to avoid detection.
During the ensuing police pursuit, the car slowed to a near stop when the driver, later identified as Chapple, jumped from the driver’s seat with the car still in drive and sprinted in between several homes while carrying a handgun loaded with a high-capacity magazine. A police K-9 team eventually located Chapple who was hiding in a wooded area behind the homes. Police found the loaded handgun on the ground where Chapple had discarded it. After being advised of his Miranda rights, Chapple admitted to police that he possessed that gun and threw it before his arrest. At the time of this incident, Chapple was on parole for a prior felony weapons offense.
This case was investigated by the ATF and Shreveport Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Shannon.
The second defendant sentenced was Decoby J. Office, 20, of Shreveport, who received a 24 month prison sentence, followed by 2 years of supervised release.
In this case, a Shreveport Police Department officer tried to stop a car being driven by Office on June 3, 2021. The car fled and during the ensuing pursuit, Office threw a Glock 9mm handgun from the vehicle. Officers were able to recover the weapon and eventually the pursuit ended, and Office was arrested. A Shreveport Police Department officer searched the car and discovered a loaded magazine below the driver’s seat, where Office had been seated. Office possessed the firearm and ammunition knowing that he was prohibited from doing so. His prior felony conviction is for illegal use of a weapon in 2021 in Caddo Parish, Louisiana.
This case was investigated by the ATF and Shreveport Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Leon H. Whitten.
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Drug Trafficker from Colfax, LA Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Methamphetamine and a FirearmRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. - DaMarcus Lionell Williams, 29, of Colfax, Louisiana, was sentenced today in federal court on drug trafficking and firearms charges, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Williams was sentenced by United States District Judge David C. Joseph to 192 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release.
Williams pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person on May 2, 2022. These charges are the result of an arrest of Williams on June 9, 2021 by law enforcement officers with the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement Task Force. Officers made contact with Williams in Grant Parish, Louisiana, when he arrived on the scene of a traffic stop that was in progress. They recognized Williams and knew that he had an active arrest warrant, and he was arrested pursuant to the warrant.
During the encounter, officers lawfully searched Williams' vehicle and recovered suspected cocaine in the center console, as well as methamphetamine, marijuana, hydrocodone and buprenorphine hydrochloride pills, a loaded .880 Diamondback pistol, and digital scales, which were all found in different shoe boxes in the vehicle. Williams also had three cell phones in the vehicle. When asked about the drugs and gun that were found, Williams admitted they were his. Shortly thereafter, law enforcement officers conducted a lawful search of Williams’ bedroom at his mother’s residence. During their search, officers found approximately 2.3 grams of suspected marijuana, ammunition, and cash. The methamphetamine was tested by a lab and confirmed to be 416.56 grams of methamphetamine. The suspected cocaine was also tested by a lab and confirmed to be 42.309 grams of cocaine (powder).
Williams has prior felony convictions for possession of a legend drug in 2012, possession with intent to distribute cocaine in 2016, and distribution of methamphetamine in 2017. Williams knew that as a convicted felon he was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition.
The case was investigated by the FBI, ATF and Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian C. Flanagan and Earl M. Campbell.
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Sulphur Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – Justin M. Marks, 35, of Sulphur, Louisiana, has been sentenced for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced Marks to 43 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to information presented to the court, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call involving the shooting of a canine on October 13, 2020. Deputies arrived at the residence and observed a dog with a gunshot wound to the upper chest. Witnesses were interviewed at the scene by deputies, and they approached the residence and made contact with Marks. After being advised of his Miranda warning, Marks agreed to speak with the deputies and admitted to shooting his neighbor’s dog. He produced the firearm that was used, and it was seized by law enforcement officers.
Marks admitted that he knew as a convicted felon he was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition. He has prior felony convictions for simple arson, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, and simple damage to property in 2008; and possession of methamphetamine in 2021.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Myers P. Namie and Craig R. Bordelon.
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Former Monroe, Louisiana, Police Department Officer Pleads Guilty to Civil Rights Charge for Using Excessive ForceRead the Press Release
Jared Preston Desadier, 44, of Monroe, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to a charge of deprivation of rights under color of law, announced Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown of the Western District of Louisiana; and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams of the FBI New Orleans Field Office.
According to evidence presented to the court, on or about the evening of April 21, 2020, Desadier, who was at the time a uniformed officer with the Monroe Police Department (MPD), used unreasonable force by kicking an arrestee in the face. The incident occurred shortly after midnight, when MPD officers overheard an alarm system activate, and Desadier and other officers detained a man for questioning. When officers discovered drug paraphernalia on the man, the man ran from the scene and officers gave chase. Approximately a block away, a patrolling MPD officer caught up to the man and ordered him to the ground. The man complied, by lying flat on his stomach and putting his hands behind his back. As that officer approached and prepared to handcuff the man, Desadier ran up to the scene and kicked the man in the face as he lay face-down on the ground with both hands behind his back.
Desadier admitted in court that his assault on the victim was without justification, as the man did not present a threat to any officer or other person on the scene. Desadier also admitted that he knew, at the time, that his actions were unjustified and unreasonable under the circumstances.
“Instead of lawfully carrying out his sworn duties as a law enforcement officer, Desadier abused his authority by assaulting and injuring an arrestee who was not a threat,” said Assistant Attorney General Clarke. “The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute any officer who abuses the public trust by using excessive force without basis.”
“I applaud our local, law-abiding police officers for their service to our respective communities,” said U.S. Attorney Brown. “Unfortunately, there are a few police officers who cannot be described as law-abiding. When police officers commit crimes in violation of federal criminal civil rights statutes that can be proved beyond a reasonable doubt in a federal court of law, we will prosecute those officers zealously and without hesitation. The actions of this officer are inexcusable, violate public trust in law enforcement and he must be held accountable. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to enforcing the rule of law and protecting the civil rights of all persons present within the Western District of Louisiana, with a goal of restoring and building the public’s trust in local, state and federal law enforcement.”
“The preservation of civil rights and the investigation of color of law violations are of utmost priority for the FBI,” said Special Agent in Charge Williams Jr. “Today's guilty plea sends a clear message that individuals like Jared Preston Desadier will be held responsible and no one is above the law. We thank our partners at the U.S. Attorney's Office, Western District of Louisiana and Department of Justice Civil Rights Division for their strong partnership and dedication to protecting the civil rights of every citizen.”
Desadier faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. His sentencing has been set for Nov. 21.
The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian C. Flanagan and Mary J. Mudrick, and Trial Attorney Thomas Johnson of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.
Former Monroe Police Department Officer Pleads Guilty to Civil Rights Charge for Using Excessive ForceRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. - Jared Preston Desadier, 44, of Monroe, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote to a charge of deprivation of rights under color of law, announced Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown of the Western District of Louisiana; and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams of the FBI New Orleans Field Office.
According to evidence presented to the court, on or about the evening of April 21, 2020, Desadier, who was at the time a uniformed officer with the Monroe Police Department (MPD), used unreasonable force by kicking an arrestee in the face. The incident occurred shortly after midnight, when MPD officers overheard an alarm system activate, and Desadier and other officers detained a man for questioning. When officers discovered drug paraphernalia on the man, the man ran from the scene and officers gave chase. Approximately a block away, a patrolling MPD officer caught up to the man and ordered him to the ground. The man complied, by lying flat on his stomach and putting his hands behind his back. As that officer approached and prepared to handcuff the man, Desadier ran up to the scene and kicked the man in the face as he lay face-down on the ground with both hands behind his back.
Desadier admitted in court that his assault on the victim was without justification, as the man did not present a threat to any officer or other person on the scene. Desadier also admitted that he knew, at the time, that his actions were unjustified and unreasonable under the circumstances.
“Instead of lawfully carrying out his sworn duties as a law enforcement officer, Desadier abused his authority by assaulting and injuring an arrestee who was not a threat,” said Assistant Attorney General Clarke. “The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute any officer who abuses the public trust by using excessive force without basis.”
“I applaud our local, law-abiding police officers for their service to our respective communities,” said U.S. Attorney Brown. “Unfortunately, there are a few police officers who cannot be described as law-abiding. When police officers commit crimes in violation of federal criminal civil rights statutes that can be proved beyond a reasonable doubt in a federal court of law, we will prosecute those officers zealously and without hesitation. The actions of this officer are inexcusable, violate public trust in law enforcement, and he must be held accountable. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to enforcing the rule of law and protecting the civil rights of all persons present within the Western District of Louisiana, with a goal of restoring and building the public’s trust in local, state and federal law enforcement.”
“The preservation of civil rights and the investigation of color of law violations are of utmost priority for the FBI. Today's guilty plea sends a clear message that individuals like Jared Preston Desadier will be held responsible and no one is above the law,” said Special Agent in Charge Williams Jr. “We thank our partners at the U.S. Attorney's Office, Western District of Louisiana and Department of Justice Civil Rights Division for their strong partnership and dedication to protecting the civil rights of every citizen.”
Desadier faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. His sentencing has been set for November 21, 2022.
The case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian C. Flanagan and Mary J. Mudrick, and Trial Attorney Thomas Johnson of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division.
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Abbeville Man to Spend Time in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Xzavier Dyson, 23, of Abbeville, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge R. Summerhays to 42 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, on firearms charges.
Dyson was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2021 and charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He pleaded guilty to the charge on March 23, 2022. The charge stems from an incident that occurred on May 26, 2020 when Dyson was the rear passenger in a vehicle that was stopped for a traffic violation in Abbeville. The driver consented to a search of the vehicle and a pat down search was conducted by law enforcement officers of each occupant of the vehicle. The deputy found a Cobra .380 pistol on Dyson’s person and seized the weapon. Dyson had a previous felony conviction for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and illegal carrying of a weapon in 2018 and was on probation when this offense occurred. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from having a firearm or ammunition in his possession.
The case was investigated by the ATF and the Vermillion Parish Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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Inmate at Federal Correctional Institution Sentenced for Committing Voluntary ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA, La. – A federal prisoner housed at the Federal Correctional Institution in Pollock, Louisiana (FCI-Pollock) has been sentenced for voluntary manslaughter, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Jose G. Mercado-Gonzalez, 27, has been sentenced by United States District Judge David C. Joseph to spend an additional 135 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for this offense.
On October 16, 2021, Mercado-Gonzalez was an inmate at the Bureau of Prisons, FCI-Pollock. On that date, Mercado-Gonzalez was moved to a cell in the Special Housing Unit at FCI-Pollock where he had an altercation which ended in him killing his cellmate. When the victim was found by officers at the prison, he had sustained injuries which caused him to lose his life.
A federal grand jury charged Mercado-Gonzalez on March 24, 2021 and he pleaded guilty to the charge of voluntary manslaughter on March 17, 2022. At the time of this offense, Mercado-Gonzalez was serving a federal sentence for re-entry of a removed alien.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg.
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Two Separate Cases Involving Sex Trafficking and Sexual Exploitation Crimes Result in Sentences of 60+ Years in Federal Prison for Three DefendantsRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the resolution of two cases involving sex crimes. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced the three defendants as follows:
Kevondric Fezia, 26, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced to 327 months (27 years, 3 months) in prison, and Calista Jenee Winfrey, 23, of Orange, Texas was sentenced to 36 months (3 years) in prison. Both defendants will serve 5 years of supervised release after their release from prison. In addition, Fezia and Winfrey were each ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,500. Fezia and Winfrey were charged with sex trafficking and attempting to entice a minor to engage in prostitution. Fezia was convicted by a jury in Lafayette following a two-day trial and Winfrey pleaded guilty to sex trafficking in February 2022.
Evidence presented in this case revealed that beginning in November 2020, Fezia was recruiting minor females to engage in prostitution and began communicating with a 14-year-old female in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Fezia was well aware when he began communicating with her that she was a minor, but still pursued her and tried to convince her that she would profit by engaging in prostitution through him. The minor victim made a decision to run away with Fezia to Texas. On February 13, 2021, he picked up the minor victim and took her to Texas. Winfrey and Fezia both were well aware that the victim was only 14 years old, but they continued to try and convince her to engage in prostitution.
Both defendants traveled with the minor victim to a hotel in Beaumont, Texas and introduced her to a 16-year-old prostitute that was also working for Fezia. Winfrey engaged in multiple acts of prostitution in the presence of the minor victim at the hotel, continually trying to convince the minor victim that she should also engage in prostitution. Fezia took photographs of both minor girls and the other prostitutes he was employing. He then posted them on his Instagram account as an advertisement, along with a visible geo tag showing those who saw the advertisement where to go to engage in sexual acts with the girls.
When the minor victim’s grandmother realized that she had run away from home, she began looking at the child’s social media accounts and found the communications between her granddaughter and Fezia. She then contacted law enforcement. Law enforcement officers were able to identify Fezia and found him at his apartment in Houston, Texas, along with other prostitutes and the minor victim. He attempted to hide her in the closet, but she and the other 16-year-old prostitute were found.
The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the Lake Charles Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Luke Walker and John W. Nickel.
In the second case, Mickey Dewayne Williams, 43, of Lake Charles, was sentenced to 327 months (27 years, 3 months) in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for sexual exploitation of children.
In March 2021, law enforcement officers in Texas were contacted by an individual alleging that their minor child had been videotaped while naked in the bathtub by Williams. Law enforcement agents questioned Williams about the incident, and he admitted that he had in fact taken the photographs of the child while they were in the Western District of Louisiana. Williams has a prior felony conviction for possession of child pornography which also occurred in the Western District of Louisiana in 2014. He served time in federal prison for that offense and was on supervised release at the time that this incident occurred.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Luke Walker.
“These defendants sought out those to victimize who were vulnerable, whether it was girls under the age of 17, or minor children, without any regard for the well being of those victims but instead to gratify their own selfish desires,” said United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “Sex trafficking and sexual exploitation crimes are on the rise, and we are committed to continuing to work with our federal and local partners to stop those who choose to destroy teenage lives and scar those of child victims.”
“There is no place in our society for those who prey on the most vulnerable of our population. These sentence lengths reflect the heinous nature of the crimes committed, and for the HSI special agents and our law enforcement partners, it’s a gratifying outcome. We are thankful to our special agents and our law enforcement partners who do the difficult but important work of investigating these crimes,” said HSI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Dave Denton. “We also hope that the sentence serves as part of the victims’ healing process, and it reaffirms our commitment to safeguarding our nation’s children.”
These cases are part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Jennings Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Drugs and FirearmsRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - Morgan Lyons, 43, of Jennings, Louisiana, has been sentenced by United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. to 137 months (11 years, 5 months) in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for illegal possession of drugs and firearms, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown.
Lyons was convicted by a jury in Lafayette on February 10, 2022 of one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and two counts of felon in possession of a firearm. According to evidence presented at trial, law enforcement officers with the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office Combined Anti-Drug Task Force, the Louisiana State Police and the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office, using a cooperating witness, did a controlled delivery of marijuana to a residence in which Morgan Lyons resided. Shortly after the controlled delivery, officers executed a search warrant of the residence and located approximately 43 ounces of cocaine, a ledger book, 4 digital scales, $36,020, an AR-15 assault rifle, a Ruger 9mm firearm, and a large box of assorted ammunition, as well as numerous documents in the name of Morgan Lyons.
Evidence introduced at trial revealed that Lyons has a prior felony conviction for possession of cocaine and a prior conviction for possession of over 400 grams of cocaine, as well as multiple violent felony arrests. As a result of his conviction, he will forfeit the $36,020 which was seized.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Luke Walker and Craig R. Bordelon.
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Illegal Possession of Firearms Leads to Time in Federal Prison for Two Men from Lake Charles AreaRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing of two defendants for illegally possessing firearms in the Western District of Louisiana.
Brian Damar Paul, 35, of Lake Charles, Louisiana, was sentenced to 33 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On December 31, 2020, investigators with the Lake Charles Police Department were dispatched to a residence in Lake Charles. Prior to their arrival, investigators learned that the Paul was in the residence with a firearm and was refusing to leave. Upon their arrival, Paul was asked to step outside the residence and when he emerged, they observed him place a handgun in the trashcan near the front door. The firearm was seized and after being advised of his Miranda rights, Paul consented to an interview. Paul stated that he had stolen the firearm from a female friend while at her house and then brought it to his residence. When he saw investigators arrive, he threw the firearm in the trashcan. Paul has a previous felony conviction for armed robbery in 2008 and was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and Lake Charles Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker prosecuted the case.
Miguel Morales-Duran, 33, a citizen of Mexico, has been sentenced by United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. to 1 year and 1 day in prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release. Morales-Duran was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. He pleaded guilty to the charge on March 30, 2022. Officers with the Broussard Police Department responded to a call of shots fired in Broussard, Louisiana on December 25, 2021. The complainant stated that shots were heard coming from a residence nearby. When officers made contact with one of the males at that residence, they stated that Morales-Duran had fired the shots in the backyard. A Glock, Model 22, .40 caliber handgun was found in the residence and Morales-Duran was arrested. He admitted to police officers that he had fired the handgun and knew that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully present in the United States.
This case was investigated by the ATF and Broussard Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Ayo.
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Defendants Sentenced for Producing and Distributing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that two defendants who were involved in the production and distribution of child pornography, have each been sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays.
Dustin Patrick Wyble, 37, of Sunset, Louisiana, was sentenced to 240 months (20 years) in prison. Katie-Sue Fory Walz, 33, also of Sunset, was sentenced to 96 months (8 years) in prison. Both Wyble and Walz were each ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $6,000. Following their release from prison, they will serve 15 years of supervised release. In addition, mandatory sex offender registration was ordered for both defendants.
According to evidence presented to the court, Wyble began communicating through the internet chat application, KIK, with an undercover agent in February 2020. During these chats, Wyble provided images of a prepubescent child exposing their private parts in the image. Through their investigative efforts, law enforcement agents were able to determine where Wyble lived and went to his residence to speak with him. Wyble eventually admitted to using KIK in order to send images of child pornography to other users. A search warrant was obtained for Wyble’s residence and agents seized several electronic devices that Wyble admitted were used to send images through the KIK application. A forensic examination of the devices revealed that Wyble used the devices to store numerous child pornographic images and used his KIK account to administer group chats to share child pornographic images among the group’s users. The investigation also revealed that Wyble and Walz produced some of the images recovered.
The case was investigated by the FBI, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, Department of Homeland Security Investigations, and Louisiana State Police, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Myers P. Namie and Robert C. Abendroth.
This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a U.S. Department of Justice nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
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Two Convicted Felons from Shreveport Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that two men from Shreveport were sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. for illegally possessing firearms.
Damontra Vonravious Mandigo, 22, was sentenced to 87 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Shreveport Police Department officers were patrolling an area in Shreveport on March 15, 2021 and observed a vehicle parked in the driveway of a vacant residence. Officers made contact with the individual in the driver’s seat, later identified as Mandigo. A search was conducted of his vehicle and law enforcement officers found a Zastava 7.62x39mm pistol. Officers were aware that Mandigo was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition. He was arrested and later admitted to agents that the firearm was his. Mandigo’s prior felony convictions were for illegal use of a weapon in 2011, and attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in 2018.
Tramarciea Jovan Ruffins a/k/a “JJ,” 29, was sentenced to 50 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Ruffins was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 13, 2021 and he pleaded guilty to the charge on February 28, 2022. Officers with the Shreveport Police Department and agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) attempted to make contact with Ruffins and another individual in a vehicle in the Cooper Road area of Shreveport on March 11, 2021. When the driver saw police, he drove off and fled the scene. Police chased the vehicle until it crashed. Both Ruffins and the driver jumped out after the crash and fled on foot. Police used K-9 dogs to locate them hidden in an exterior utility closet on Tulsa Street in Shreveport. Ruffins and the driver were arrested and advised of their Miranda rights. Officers searched the area and located firearms loaded with ammunition against the side wall of the residence where they were hiding. Ruffins admitted to law enforcement officers that he had been in possession of the Smith and Wesson .45 caliber pistol. Ruffins was previously convicted of aggravated battery in 2014, and felon in possession of a firearm in 2018.
Both of these cases were investigated by the ATF and Shreveport Police Department and were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford.
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Dubach Man Receives 10+ Year Sentence for Illegal Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Brandon Khesahn Cooper, 50, of Dubach, Louisiana, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty. Cooper was sentenced to a total of 138 months (11 years, 6 months) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession of firearms by a convicted felon and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to evidence presented in court, deputies with the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on Cooper’s residence on October 19, 2021. Inside his bedroom, deputies found 12 grams of methamphetamine and a Charter Arms .38 revolver located next to Cooper’s wallet. Deputies also found packaging material consistent with distribution of illegal substances and a .410 gauge CBC shotgun in the bedroom.
Law enforcement agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) interviewed Cooper after being read his Miranda rights. In the interview, Cooper claimed the methamphetamine and firearms, and admitted to agents that he was selling drugs and had purchased the revolver even though he was a convicted felon. Cooper had previously been convicted of a felony and knew that he was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition. Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) determined that the revolver and shotgun were both manufactured outside of the state of Louisiana and had traveled in interstate commerce.
The case was investigated by the DEA, ATF and the Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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Three Defendants Sent to Federal Prison as a Result of Project Safe Neighborhoods CasesRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the resolution of three cases in Shreveport today involving the illegal possession of firearms. United States District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote sentenced the following defendants:
Cedarrick Arenzo Brooks, 22, was sentenced to 120 months in prison, and Kymmton Solomon, 24, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for being convicted felons in possession of firearms. Both will serve 3 years of supervised release following their release from prison. Brooks and Solomon were both charged in October 2021 as the result of an investigation by agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Shreveport/Caddo Violent Crime Abatement Team (VCAT). Agents began conducting surveillance of Solomon after he had been identified as a person of interest in multiple violent crimes by Shreveport Police Department detectives. During their investigation, agents observed Solomon as he drove to a house on Bibb Street in Shreveport and met with an unknown male, later identified as Brooks. Agents were able to see Brooks carrying what appeared to be an AR-style rifle with a high-capacity drum magazine as he got into the vehicle with Solomon.
Shortly thereafter, deputies with the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle while driving on Mansfield Road but Solomon fled through traffic. After a pursuit, Solomon’s vehicle left the roadway and crashed on the side of the road. Solomon and the passenger, Brooks, exited the vehicle and fled on foot. Solomon fled into the woods and was taken into custody in the backyard of a residence on St. Helens Drive in Shreveport. Brooks was apprehended in the parking lot of a store on Walker Road. He was bitten by a K-9, escaped briefly, jumped on top of a car with a female and children inside, and then was tased and fell off the car.
Deputies cleared the vehicle Solomon was driving after both he and Brooks had fled and located a Zastava AK-47 rifle lying in the driver’s seat and a Carbon-15 .556 caliber pistol lying on the floorboard behind the driver’s seat. Solomon and Brooks were both arrested and interviewed. Solomon told officers that the Zastava AK-47 rifle belonged to his girlfriend but that he used it to protect himself. Brooks admitted that he knew there were two firearms in the vehicle. Solomon has a prior felony conviction for simple burglary in Caddo Parish in 2016. Brooks has a prior felony conviction for second degree battery in Ouachita Parish in 2019.
Haston Smith, Jr., 30, of Bossier City, Louisiana, was sentenced to 32 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On or about October 5, 2021, agents with the ATF and the Shreveport/Caddo VCAT were conducting surveillance on Smith’s residence after he had been identified as a person of interest in an ongoing investigation by Shreveport Police Department’s Violent Crime detectives. Agents were aware that Smith was a convicted felon and could not possess firearms. Smith was observed leaving his residence with what appeared to be a handgun in his hand and get into a vehicle along with an adult female and two children. Agents maintained surveillance on Smith as he drove the vehicle from Bossier City to the Cooper Road area in Shreveport. After violating a traffic law, Smith was stopped by law enforcement agents. As they went to escort the female and children out of the vehicle, agents observed a firearm laying on the front passenger seat floorboard in plain view. The firearm was seized and identified as a Glock 23 pistol. Smith was arrested and admitted the firearm was his even though he knew as a convicted felon he was prohibited from doing so. Smith’s prior felony conviction was for illegal use of weapons in Caddo Parish in 2014.
These cases were investigated by the ATF, Shreveport Police Department, and Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office and were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford.
These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn.
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