Western District of Louisiana
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Monroe Duck Hunter Convicted by Federal Jury of Assaulting Federal Fish and Wildlife AgentsRead the Press Release
MONROE – On August 26, 2026, following a three-day trial before Chief United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty, a federal jury found Carson McKoin, 23, of Monroe, guilty of assaulting, resisting, or impeding federal wildlife agents. McKoin faces up to 20 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for December 2, 2026.
“Louisiana, long known as ‘Sportsman’s Paradise,’ is blessed with one of the richest outdoor traditions in the country,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “But that tradition only succeeds when hunters exercise due care and responsibility with firearms. Reckless actions put lives at risk and are taken very seriously.”
According to evidence presented at trial, McKoin was hunting with a group of young men on January 19, 2024, when he believed other hunters were encroaching on the duck hole his group claimed. Hearing a boat approaching, McKoin fired a shot toward what he thought were incoming hunters. The individuals approaching were actually federal fish and wildlife agents performing their official duties. When confronted, McKoin admitted firing the shot but claimed it was simply a “signal shot,” a statement at odds with the agents’ belief that he had intentionally fired at them.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – Division of Refuge Law Enforcement (USFWS-DRLE), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case.
It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Vermaelen, William Gaskins, and Robert Moody, with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-cr-00025.
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CONTACT:
Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
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(337) 262-6704Alexandria Man Indicted as Armed Career Criminal on Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA – On August 19, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Cartez Dotson, 39, of Alexandria, with Possessing a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute, Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and two counts of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon. Dotson faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life in federal prison.
The indictment alleges that on January 14, 2026, Dotson knowingly possessed a controlled substance, including five grams or more of methamphetamine and an additional fifty grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine, with intent to distribute. Dotson was also allegedly found in possession of two pistols and ammunition, with the indictment further alleging that he carried a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Court records show that Dotson has prior qualifying convictions that subject him to enhanced penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act, including three prior serious drug or violent felonies committed on separate occasions.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren L. Nickel with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer.
The case number for this matter is 1:26-CR-00209.
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CONTACT:
Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704Alexandria Man Sentenced to over Four Years in Federal Prison After Concealing Machinegun on 10-Year-Old ChildRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA – On August 21, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards Jr. sentenced Sheldon Doral Franklin, 33, of Alexandria, to over four years in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, after his April 17, 2026, guilty plea to Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
“This defendant recklessly used a 10-year-old child to hide a fully automatic weapon and then ran from law enforcement to escape the consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Machinegun conversion devices are extremely dangerous, and our Office will continue to hold accountable those who endanger children, community members, and police officers by illegally possessing these dangerous weapons.”
According to court documents, the investigation began on March 23, 2024, when a Pineville Police Department (PPD) officer monitoring a license plate reader alert system received an alert for a stolen maroon Nissan Sentra reported out of Opelousas. The officer quickly located the Sentra traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 167. When the officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the vehicle continued driving until the police siren was activated. Additional officers arrived and ordered Franklin, the driver and a convicted felon, out of the car. Franklin initially refused commands to keep his hands in view but eventually complied and was handcuffed. When questioned, Franklin identified the passenger as his 10-year-old child. Franklin then claimed he was unaware the vehicle had been stolen, stating it had been loaned to him by his girlfriend. When officers informed Franklin that they needed to search his child, he refused to give permission. The child also refused commands and kept a bag of chips pressed against his leg. As an officer attempted to move the child's arms, he felt what appeared to be a handgun concealed between the chip bag and the child's leg. Franklin then fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by law enforcement. Officers recovered the weapon, a loaded Glock Model 23, .40-caliber pistol equipped with a Machine Gun Conversion Device (MCD), also known as a switch, making the firearm fully automatic.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and PPD investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 1:25-cr-00235-01.
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CONTACT:
Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
Final Defendant Sentenced in Multi-State Meth Trafficking Conspiracy; Will Spend Almost 20 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT - On August 20, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks sentenced Jaquez Anthony Flakes, 21, of Natchitoches, to 235 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Flakes was convicted at trial on March 24, 2026.
“Methamphetamine continues to tear through our Louisiana communities, leaving families shattered and lives ruined,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Dismantling this 11-member conspiracy and holding them accountable for their crimes reflects our Office’s commitment, alongside our federal and state partners, to invest the resources necessary for investigating and prosecuting drug traffickers across our rural and urban communities.”
This sentencing marks the final defendant brought to justice in an eleven-person drug trafficking network dismantled through a years-long investigation. Flakes's involvement came to light during a traffic stop on August 16, 2024, near the Louisiana-Texas state line. Louisiana State Police (LSP) attempted to pull over a vehicle driven by co-conspirator Daniel Efferson. Efferson, Flakes, and co-conspirator Perry Willis fled the scene. This led to a vehicle chase that ended in a crash. Officers recovered approximately nine kilograms of methamphetamine and twenty-four pounds of synthetic marijuana from the vehicle. This incident was the primary catalyst for a broader federal investigation.
Subsequent investigations in Houston uncovered the massive scale of the trafficking network: agents seized 221.5 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine disguised as bottled water and located a meth conversion lab equipped with burners, pots, and an additional 11 kilograms of processed methamphetamine. Evidence recovered connected Flakes to the same distribution pipeline supplying Willis, Efferson, and eight other members of the conspiracy.
With Flakes sentenced, all eleven defendants have been held accountable. Previously sentenced co-conspirators are as follows:
Daniel Efferson, of Natchitoches – 360 months (30 years)
Christopher Caffey, of Shreveport – 262 months (over 21 years)
Joshua Hardy, of Shreveport – 151 months (over 12 years)
Delannie Lee, of Shreveport – 168 months (14 years)
Crystal Williams, of Mansfield – 60 months (5 years)
Kellie Yates, of Shreveport – 3 years' probation
Amadeo Penaloza-Meza, of Mexico – 135 months (over 11 years)
Brayan Sandoval, of Mexico – 135 months (over 11 years)
Jeffrey Flack, of Shreveport – 120 months (10 years)
Perry Willis, of Natchitoches – 292 months (over 24 years)U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Mexican cartels continue to flood the United States with high purity, highly potent methamphetamine. In Louisiana, officials warn that meth remains a serious statewide threat: stimulant related overdose deaths still account for 26.5% of all drug involved fatalities and rural communities have seen rising mortality as meth supplies are increasingly laced with deadly fentanyl.
LSP and DEA investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorneys Robert Moody and Earl M. Campbell with assistance from Legal Assistants Amanda Morgan and Stephanie Stewart.
A copy of this press release (and future updates) can be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the District Court's website at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Number 5:24-CR-00256-10.
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CONTACT:
Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day to Remind Citizens that “One Pill Can Kill”Read the Press Release
On Friday, August 21, 2026, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller of the Western District of Louisiana will join Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and community partners in observing National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, joining communities across Louisiana and the country working to confront the deadliest drug crisis in U.S. history. The day is dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of illicit fentanyl and honoring the lives lost to fentanyl poisoning and overdose.
“Fentanyl’s horrific effect on our communities, our families, and our friends demands that we continue increasing awareness of the threat it poses while doing everything we can to eliminate it from our society,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “It is a time for reflecting upon the harm fentanyl has caused and our need to continue the fight against it. The U.S. Attorney’s Office stands alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners in combatting this poison and dismantling the groups that peddle it in our streets. ”
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It is inexpensive, widely available, highly addictive, and distributed in a variety of forms.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 70,000 Americans died from drug overdose or poisoning in 2025. While early provisional statistics for 2026 show an encouraging decrease in mortality, fentanyl remains the leading cause of accidental drug overdose deaths in the United States.
Fentanyl trafficking is central to this serious public safety crisis. Traffickers frequently mix fentanyl with other drugs to increase addiction and profits, often without a user’s knowledge.
Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl—an amount smaller than a grain of salt—can be lethal.
National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day is an urgent call to action for individuals, families, schools, businesses, and community organizations to:
Share information about the dangers of fentanyl, fentanyl trafficking, and counterfeit pills in schools, youth associations, faith-based organizations, and other community groups.
Promote fentanyl education and informed decision‑making.
Encourage access to overdose response resources, including naloxone.
Support individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.
Participate in local awareness events and community outreach efforts.
So far in 2026, DEA has seized more than 21 million fentanyl pills and 9,970 pounds of fentanyl powder, amounting to about 239 million deadly doses. In 2025, DEA seized over 47 million fentanyl pills and nearly 10,000 pounds of fentanyl powder—about 369 million potentially deadly doses — kept out of American communities.
Information and free educational resources, including the One Pill Can Kill partner toolkit and youth conversation guides, are available at DEA.gov/onepill. Louisiana citizens are encouraged to learn as much as possible about this deadly scourge and how to defend against it.Families may also submit photographs for the Faces of Fentanyl memorial exhibit at www.dea.gov/facesoffentanyl.
By raising awareness, strengthening education, and supporting affected families, communities can help save lives and confront the ongoing fentanyl crisis.
Resources:
DEA Fentanyl Awareness: https://www.dea.gov/fentanylawareness
Prevention Toolkits: https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/php/toolkits/fentanyl-prevention-awareness-day.html###
CONTACT:Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704West Monroe Man Convicted on Multiple Federal Drug and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
MONROE – On August 11, 2026, a federal jury found Donald Kelly, 44, of West Monroe, guilty of Distribution of Methamphetamine; Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine; Possession of Firearms by a Prohibited Person; and Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime after a two-day trial. Kelly faces a sentence of up to life imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for November 10, 2026.
According to court records, Kelly had a prior federal Possession with Intent to Distribute crack cocaine conviction. Evidence presented at trial showed that Kelly was a Monroe-area drug trafficker who sold 112 grams of meth to a confidential source in an undercover buy. The day after the buy, agents executed a search warrant on Kelly’s residence, where they found two baggies of Methamphetamine floating in the toilet as well as two handguns and $23,700 in cash. Kelly claimed that he was a user, not a seller, despite the fact that he had no pipes or syringes in his residence.
Prosecutors anticipated that Kelly would attempt to make an entrapment defense; they asked the court before trial to require the defense to present evidence supporting that claim. The Court granted the motion, eliminating Kelly’s use of that defense due to his inability to provide any basis for it.U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Metro Narcotics Unit of Ouachita Parish, the Monroe Police Department (MPD), and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) investigated this case.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Gaskins and Amy Miller with assistance from Legal Assistants Emily Favrot, Stephanie Stewart, and Amanda Morgan.
This prosecution was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 3:25‑cr‑00082‑01.
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CONTACT:
Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704West Monroe and Alexandria Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
MONROE / ALEXANDRIA – Defendants from West Monroe and Alexandria have been sentenced in separate cases involving drug trafficking and firearm offenses.
On July 29, 2026, United States Chief District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Eaan Lee Blake, 24, of West Monroe, to 10 years in federal prison after his conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Marijuana. Blake had previously pled guilty to the charge.
According to court documents, on February 16, 2025, a Portland, Arkansas, Police Officer attempted to stop a white Chevrolet Trailblazer traveling 55 mph in a 35-mph zone. The driver, later identified as Blake, initially pulled over, but then fled the scene, leading officers on a pursuit from Arkansas into Louisiana. Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) deputies deployed spike strips, stopping the vehicle on U.S. Highway 165 in Bastrop, Louisiana, over 40 miles from the initial stop.
Blake, the sole occupant of the vehicle, admitted that the car was “filled with dope.” A search of the vehicle uncovered multiple suitcases containing approximately 75 pounds of methamphetamine and nine pounds of marijuana, along with hydrocodone/acetaminophen tablets, a vacuum sealing machine, hotel receipts from California and Arizona bearing Blake’s name, and $713 in U.S. currency.
The Portland Police Department (PPD) and the Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.
On August 6, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards, Jr., sentenced Johnathan Casey Baker, 32, of Alexandria, to over six years in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon. Baker had also pled guilty to the charge.
According to court documents, on October 3, 2025, the Alexandria Police Department (APD) conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Baker, the sole occupant. Officers observed a Smith & Wesson M&P .22-caliber rifle in plain view inside the vehicle. After obtaining a search warrant, investigators recovered the firearm. Baker, a previously convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) later confirmed the rifle was capable of firing a bullet by the action of an explosive.
APD and ATF investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey N. Stelly with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.
This case was investigated as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Numbers 3:25-cr-00065-01 (Eaan Lee Blake) and 1:26-cr-00018-01 (Johnathan Casey Baker).
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CONTACT:
Public Affairs: [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704Oakdale Man Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison for Impersonating DEA AgentRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES – On August 4, 2026, United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr., sentenced John Gueringer, 51, of Oakdale, to 36 months in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release after pleading guilty to Impersonating a Federal Officer.
“Impersonating a federal agent is a serious crime. It undermines public trust, confuses citizens, and endangers both the public and law enforcement,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This sentence reflects our commitment to protecting the integrity of federal agencies and holding accountable those who illegally and recklessly assume the identify of a United States federal agent.”
According to court documents, on July 22, 2024, officers with the Oakdale Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance at a residence in Oakdale. As officers arrived, they encountered a visibly upset woman who had multiple scratch marks on her body. When officers approached the residence, Gueringer met them under the carport wearing a lanyard containing what appeared to be an authentic Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) badge. Gueringer repeatedly identified himself as a federal agent, and instructed officers to call the DEA, attempting to block their investigation and avoid arrest.
Investigators later confirmed that Gueringer had no affiliation with the DEA and that he used the impersonation in an effort to deceive responding officers and interfere with their investigation. Gueringer admitted he acted with intent to mislead law enforcement.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Oakdale Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.
A copy of this press release (and any updates) may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 2:25-cr-00362.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected]
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
X: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
Alexandria Resident Sentenced to over 22 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA – On August 4, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards, Jr., sentenced Dequavious Wagner, 32, of Alexandria, to 270 months in federal prison after he pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking. He also received five years of supervised release after his sentence is served.
According to court records, in early May 2025, the Rapids Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) was investigating Wagner for illegal drug trafficking. As part of that investigation, RPSO identified a white Ram 2500 as a vehicle being used by Wagner. On May 6, 2025, RPSO deputies conducted a traffic stop of Wagner in the Ram 2500. The stop led to a search of the vehicle, resulting in the discovery of an aftermarket compartment welded to the undercarriage of the truck. Inside the compartment were more than 100 pounds of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl pills, and marijuana.
RPSO deputies later executed a search warrant at Wagner’s residence in Alexandria. Inside his bedroom, deputies located approximately four pounds of fentanyl, one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine, and a loaded pistol. Laboratory testing confirmed the substances as fentanyl and methamphetamine. Wagner admitted he possessed the drugs with intent to distribute, and that he possessed the loaded firearm as part of his drug-trafficking activities.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and RPSO investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Cassidy with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 26-00165.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Alexandria Man Indicted for Concealing Assets and Making False Statements in Bankruptcy CaseRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA – On August 5, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Edward Joseph Sieja, 47, of Alexandria, with multiple counts of Concealing Assets in Bankruptcy Filings, Making False Statements Under Penalty of Perjury, and Perjury. Sieja faces up to 35 years in federal prison if convicted on all counts.
“Bankruptcy laws are meant to provide honest, good-faith debtors a fresh start—not to be exploited by those who seek to hide assets and deceive the court,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will aggressively pursue individuals who attempt to abuse and manipulate our bankruptcy system for personal gain.”
According to court documents, Sieja filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition on August 24, 2021, seeking a discharge of more than $3.5 million in debt. The indictment alleges that before and during the bankruptcy process, Sieja concealed the transfer and purchase of multiple properties in Alexandria using undisclosed commission income from construction contracts he performed for Louisiana companies. These properties were purchased in the name of another individual, but Sieja allegedly arranged the transactions, provided the funds, and did not disclose any of them to the bankruptcy court. The indictment further alleges that Sieja failed to disclose significant assets and income, including bank accounts at two financial institutions, over $1 million in gross income, various other business interests, and the donation of a vehicle valued at $28,000.
Despite these omissions, Sieja allegedly declared under penalty of perjury that his filings were true and correct and then reaffirmed those statements under oath. The indictment charges that these actions demonstrate a deliberate effort to deceive the bankruptcy trustee, conceal assets from creditors, and unlawfully obtain a bankruptcy discharge.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Trustee Program (USTP), and IRS – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Earl M. Campbell and Amy J. Miller with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 1:26‑cr‑00313‑01.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLARayne Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Interstate Threats Targeting Mother of Minor He Previously ExploitedRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On August 6, 2026, United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr., sentenced Raylin Richard, 46, of Rayne, to 46 months in federal prison for Interstate Communication with Threat to Injure, to run consecutive to a 17-year sentence he is currently serving.
“Today’s age of social media, text messaging, and other forms of instant communication present a danger in the form of predators like this defendant using those means to terrorize and re-traumatize their victims, and this Office is committed to investigating and prosecuting that conduct alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of this defendant’s conduct—a convicted sex offender terrorizing his former victims—and the fact that our community simply will not tolerate it.”
According to court documents, Richard is currently serving a 17-year sentence for a prior child‑exploitation offense that involved secretly filming a 12-year-old girl, the daughter of his former romantic partner. After that conviction, the former partner secured a lifetime protective order against Richard and moved with her family to another state.
While housed at Oakdale Federal Correctional Institution in Louisiana, Richard used a contraband cellphone to send threatening social‑media messages to the woman, which included threatening statements and photos of her new residence. A forensic review of the seized cellphone confirmed Richard’s access to the accounts used to send the threats. Investigators also found messages between Richard and a former cellmate which proved Richard’s anger toward the victim, and which corroborated his involvement in the hostile communications. In the messages, Richard threatened bodily harm to the woman if she ever reported him to the police again.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, personnel at Oakdale Federal Correctional Institution, and law enforcement officials in the state where the victim moved. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliott Cade Cassidy and Myers P. Namie, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 2:25-cr-00318.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected]
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Methamphetamine Seized During Bawcomville Traffic Stop Leads to 24-Year Federal Sentence for Repeat OffenderRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – On August 4, 2026, United States Chief District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Bob Gilbert, Jr., 44, of Columbia, Louisiana, to 288 months in federal prison after his guilty plea for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, followed by eight years of supervised release.
According to court documents, on May 31, 2024, deputies with the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office (OPSO) conducted a lawful traffic stop of a Nissan Maxima on Sandal Street in Bawcomville. Gilbert was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. During the stop, deputies searched the car and located approximately 46 grams of pure methamphetamine in the driver's side door panel. Deputies also found a digital scale and approximately $3,200 in cash inside the vehicle, along with approximately $1,171 on Gilbert's person. Gilbert admitted he possessed the methamphetamine and that he had previously been convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and sentenced to seven years.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and OPSO. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Farshian and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Cassidy, with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 3:25-cr-00026-01.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected]
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Bunkie Man Indicted as Armed Career Criminal for Drug and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On June 17, 2026, a federal indictment was returned against Rininski Edwards, 33, of Bunkie. Edwards is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon as an Armed Career Criminal, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug-Trafficking Crime. Edwards faces decades of mandatory minimum sentences in federal prison if convicted of all charges.
“This Administration has made clear that drug traffickers and armed criminals have no place in our communities, and our Office will aggressively pursue and prosecute these offenders to get them off our streets,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This Office looks forward to seeing justice done in this case, with a sentence that is commensurate to the crime and criminal history of this alleged offender.”
According to court documents, on March 31, 2026, Edwards is alleged to have possessed 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute those drugs and a loaded .45 caliber pistol in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. It is further alleged that Edwards possessed that loaded .45 caliber pistol after having been convicted three separate times of drug trafficking or violent felonies, which renders him an Armed Career Criminal under the law.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Louisiana State Police investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney E. Ashley Hammons with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:26-cr-00250.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLAAlexandria Man Indicted for Murder of Federal Agent, Attempted Murder of Another Federal Agent, and Related Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA/LAFAYETTE – On August 5, 2026, a press conference was held at the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office to discuss the return of the federal indictment against Clarence A. Frazier, 48, of Alexandria, who is charged with the murder of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson and the attempted murder of a U.S. Marshals Service task force officer, along with related firearm crimes. Frazier faces up to life imprisonment or death if convicted. This indictment returned by a federal grand jury follows the U.S. Attorney’s Office charging Frazier by criminal complaint with the murder of Deputy Marshal Hanson.
TPDuring the press conference, U.S. Marshal Brian H. Barber, Rapides Parish Sheriff Mark Wood, FBI Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp, and Rapides Parish District Attorney Phillip Terrell also delivered remarks honoring the life, service, and sacrifice of Deputy Marshal Hanson. Also in attendance were representatives of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Louisiana State Police, and the Alexandria Police Department.
According to court documents, Deputy Marshal Hanson was murdered on July 14, 2026, while performing his official duties alongside federal and state law enforcement personnel attempting to apprehend Frazier following his failure to appear in state court on a sexual battery charge. Officers from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service approached Frazier’s residence to execute lawful warrants. Upon the officers’ entry, Frazier allegedly barricaded himself in a bedroom and opened fire, fatally striking Deputy Marshal Hanson and endangering additional officers on the scene. Hanson was a husband and father of two.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The United States Marshals Service, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Vermaelen, John W. Nickel, and Elliott Cassidy with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Joanne Henry‑Mills and Denise Duhon.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:26‑cr‑00293-01.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Lafayette Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Felon-in-Possession Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 29, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr., sentenced Thaddaeus W. Paul, 33, of Lafayette, to 96 months in federal prison after his conviction for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
According to court documents, Lafayette Police Department (LPD) officers conducted a lawful traffic stop on January 23, 2025, on a vehicle in which Paul was a passenger. Officers located Paul in the backseat in possession of a satchel bag containing a loaded semiautomatic SCCY CPX‑2 9mm pistol, crack cocaine and marijuana. Paul admitted to knowingly possessing the firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a prior felony offense punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey N. Stelly with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Stephanie Stewart and Tanya Broussard.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-cr-00328.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLAFormer Employee of Lafayette Medical Clinics Sentenced for Embezzling More Than $500kRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 31, 2026, Brooke Miller Duck (formerly “Brooke Miller Tauzin”), 31, a former resident of Arnaudville, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 22 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $539,451.41 in restitution. Duck previously pled guilty on March 16, 2026, to embezzling more than $500,000 from her medical clinic employer and using the stolen funds for personal expenses and luxury items that included expensive vacations, new cars, and fancy consumer products.
“Brooke Duck has now been held fully accountable for years of abusing her position and exploiting her employers’ trust,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “With this sentence, justice has been delivered not only for the clinics she stole from, but for all honest, hardworking small businesses across Louisiana. Our Office remains committed to protecting those businesses and prosecuting anyone who seeks to take advantage of them.”
According to court documents, Duck was employed by two medical clinics with offices in Lafayette and Baton Rouge and had access to the clinics’ credit cards and bank accounts. Between May 2020 and October 2023, Duck used the clinics’ credit cards for unauthorized personal purchases, including a $15,000 payment for a time-share vacation property. She then used funds drawn from the clinics’ bank accounts to pay the credit card balances associated with those purchases. In total, Duck caused $539,451.41 in unauthorized credit card transactions for her personal use and financial gain.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26-cr-00096.
###CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Illegal Alien in Lake Charles Sentenced in Altercation with Federal OfficersRead the Press Release
LAKE CHARLES – On July 30, 2026, United States District James D. Cain, Jr., sentenced Victor Hugo Rocha-Romero, 36, of Mexico, residing in Lake Charles, to over a year in federal prison after his July 2026 guilty plea to Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding Certain Officers or Employees.
According to court documents, Rocha-Romero had previously been issued a final Order of Removal from the United States. On June 30, 2025, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents located him in Lake Charles, Louisiana, to execute the order so that Rocha-Romero could be deported. Agents identified Rocha-Romero at a gas station, where he initially cooperated. As agents attempted to place him in restraints, Rocha- Romero attempted to flee to avoid deportation. In the course of this escape attempt, he made physical contact with an agent, causing abrasions and damage to the agent’s clothing. Rocha-Romero was immediately restrained and later admitted to resisting, impeding, and interfering with the agents.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott Cassidy and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Myers Namie with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 2:25 CR 00190 01.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Two Lafayette Women Indicted for Sophisticated Million-Dollar Fraud Scheme Targeting Multiple VictimsRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 15, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Felicia Young, 58, of Lafayette, and Leisa Fuselier, 59, a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, and a lawful permanent resident of the United States, with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Wire Fraud. Young was additionally charged with Obstruction of Justice. Young and Fuselier both face up to 20 years imprisonment.
“Protecting the public from financial predators is a top priority for this Office,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “These defendants allegedly exploited trust, manipulated victims, and abused financial systems for personal gain. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who defraud and harm hard-working members of our community.”
According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Young orchestrated a fraud scheme beginning in March 2020 that lasted several years. She allegedly gained the trust of her victims through legitimate business dealings using several companies she owned, including ALA Floral 2, Kreole Ala 2, Johnston Street Drive-Thru, and F&B Rentals. After building a relationship with her victims, Young started the scam by asking them to lend her money.
Once victims provided funds, Young allegedly claimed her bank accounts were “frozen” and requested additional deposits to unlock the accounts in order to “repay them.” To keep the scheme going, Young initiated three-way calls between herself, the victims, and Fuselier. During these calls, Fuselier falsely posed as a representative of Young’s financial institution and confirmed Young’s lies to her victims that her accounts were frozen due to an outstanding debt. The co-conspirators allegedly instructed the victims that the accounts could only be accessed if they deposited specific amounts of money by a certain day and time.
Because of these false representations, victims paid at least $1.5 million to Young through CashApp, Venmo, checks, and cash withdrawals, transactions that triggered interstate wire transmissions. Young is accused of using the funds for her own enrichment, to pay Fuselier for her role in the scheme, and to continue the ongoing fraud. The indictment further alleges that on December 30, 2023, Young obstructed justice by destroying or concealing records with the intent to prevent their use in an official proceeding.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren L. Nickel with the assistance of Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:26-CR-00269.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Lafayette Resident Pleads Guilty to False Claim of U.S. Citizenship in Employment ApplicationRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 23, 2026, Eduardo Perez-Calderon, 34, of Mexico, pled guilty in federal court to False Claim to United States Citizenship. Perez-Calderon faces up to 3 years in federal prison for the charge and is also potentially subject to removal proceedings.
According to court documents, on March 26, 2026, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received information from the Morgan City Police Department about identification documents submitted by an individual seeking employment at a business in Morgan City. The investigation revealed that on January 5, 2026, Perez-Calderon completed a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I 9, falsely selecting the option that indicated he was a United States citizen. He then signed the document in the name of another individual and provided a false Social Security number. Perez-Calderon admitted that he made these misrepresentations deliberately and with the intent to disobey the law.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
ICE and the Morgan City Police Department investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon with the assistance of Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26 CR 00163.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
[email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLABossier City Man Pleads Guilty to Machinegun PossessionRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – On July 23, 2026, Zantravious Brooks, 19, of Bossier City, pled guilty in federal court to Possession of a Machinegun. Brooks faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the charge.
According to court documents, on February 19, 2026, Shreveport Police officers and a Caddo Parish Juvenile Probation Officer conducted a compliance check at a Shreveport townhouse. Brooks was present when officers conducted a search with the consent of the resident’s mother, and officers found a loaded Glock Model 19 firearm in a bedroom closet. Brooks admitted to possessing the firearm, which had been modified with an external machinegun conversion device known as a '”Glock switch,” and to having hidden the machinegun in the closet where law enforcement recovered it. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) later examined the weapon and confirmed that the attached device had converted the firearm into a machinegun.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Shreveport Police Department, the Caddo Parish Juvenile Probation Office, and ATF. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.
This case was investigated as a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, community leaders, and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. PSN is coordinated by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the 94 federal judicial districts throughout the 50 states and U.S. territories. PSN is customized to account for local violent crime problems and resources. Across all districts, PSN follows four key design elements of successful violent crime reduction initiatives: community engagement, prevention and intervention, focused and strategic enforcement, and accountability. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:26-cr-00226-01.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected]
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLALafayette Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Cocaine Trafficking; Defendant was Identified on I-10 During Routine Traffic StopRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 22, 2026, United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Jeremy Black, 52, of Lafayette, to 84 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1).
According to court documents, on March 25, 2025, police initiated a traffic stop on Black’s vehicle after observing several traffic violations on Interstate 10 (I‑10), which included following too closely and improper lane usage. During an authorized search, officers found a black and gray bag containing two kilogram‑sized bundles of suspected narcotics wrapped in brown tape. A field test confirmed the presence of cocaine. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) laboratory testing later verified that the bundles contained 1,999.8 grams of cocaine, an amount consistent with large-scale trafficking operations.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Criminal Patrol Unit (LPSONU CPU) and the DEA investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy prosecuted the case with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.
This press release (and any updates) will be available on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Court documents and information can be found at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Number 6:25-CR-00192.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected]
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLAEunice Man Pleads Guilty to Receipt of Child Pornography; Investigation Linked Defendant’s Address to ChatroomRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 21, 2026, Scott Martel, 36, of Eunice, pled guilty in federal court to Receipt of Child Pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2). Martel faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the charges. His sentencing is scheduled for October 13, 2026.
“Protecting children from sexual exploitation is one of the highest priorities of this Office,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will continue working alongside our federal partners to bring offenders who engage in this despicable conduct to speedy justice.”
According to court documents, FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) agents began investigating Martel in March of 2025 after identifying communications in a Chatib chatroom that described the graphic sexual acts he intended to commit with minors. These chats connected Martel to his residential address. Agents then executed a search warrant at his home during which Martel acknowledged his involvement in this activity. During the search, agents discovered additional electronic evidence showing that Martel knowingly received illegal images, including of a young child engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The investigation established that Martel used multiple online platforms and electronic devices over a period of time to commit these offenses.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott Cassidy, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
This case was investigated as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26 cr 00095 01.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected]
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
New York Woman Indicted for Bribing Federal Official at ICE Detention Center to Release Immigration DetaineesRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On July 15, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Diana Kutateladze, 37, of Brooklyn, New York, with three counts of bribery of a Louisiana public official, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 201(b)(1). Kutateladze faces up to 15 years in federal prison on each count.
According to court documents, on January 11, 2024, January 16, 2024, and May 28, 2024, Kutateladze allegedly offered money and other valuable items—including tequila, a $100 gift card, and $3,000 in online payments—to a public official in the Western District of Louisiana to influence his official acts. It is alleged that those offered bribes were made to influence the public official to disregard federal immigration laws and recommend the release of immigration detainees. The public official who received these bribes reported them to his supervisors, which resulted in this investigation.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Craig Bordelon and LaDonte Murphy, with assistance from Legal Assistants Tanya Broussard and Christy Angelle.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 1:26-cr-00273-o1.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected]
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Defendants Sentenced to Federal Prison for Firearm and Drug Trafficking Offenses in Tallulah, Monroe, and ShreveportRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT– United States Chief District Court Judge Terry A. Doughty recently sentenced defendants who resided in Tallulah, Monroe, and Shreveport to federal prison for firearm and drug trafficking offenses. All defendants previously pled guilty to their respective charges.
“The Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative lies at the heart of our Office’s mission to keep our Louisiana communities safe from senseless violence and illicit drugs, and these three cases reflect our Office’s commitment to that work across North Louisiana,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Our Office tirelessly works alongside our federal and state partners to prosecute cases like this across the Western District’s 42 parishes, ensuring that our communities’ biggest disruptors are held accountable for firearm and drug trafficking crime.”
On July 7, 2026, Henry Holloway, 34, of Tallulah, was sentenced to over five years in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime. Louisiana State Police (LSP) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for having an illegal tint in which Holloway was a passenger. The trooper detected the odor of marijuana and then searched the vehicle. Holloway admitted to possessing a recovered backpack that contained approximately 172 grams of marijuana, 15 grams of cocaine, 2 bottles of Promethazine, sandwich bags, a digital scale, and a firearm loaded with an extended magazine.
On July 7, 2026, Terrance Long, 52, of Monroe, was sentenced to over eight years in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense, with three years supervised release after his sentence is served as to count one and five years supervised release on count four. When officers executed a search warrant at Long’s residence, investigators located a black pouch containing multiple individually wrapped bags of crack cocaine weighing approximately 15 grams and a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun. Long admitted that the narcotics in the residence belonged to him and that he had participated in the distribution of crack (base) cocaine. Long also admitted he had kept the firearm in his home despite knowing that, due to multiple prior felony convictions, he was prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm.
On July 8, 2026, Chamorea Bell, 30, of Shreveport, was sentenced to over nine years in federal prison for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon and three years of supervised release following his sentence. Bell was pulled over in Shreveport for a traffic violation. The officer smelled marijuana and proceeded to search Bell’s vehicle. This led to the discovery of a small amount of marijuana and a firearm, which, due to a prior felony conviction, Bell was prohibited from possessing.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Louisiana State Police (LSP), the Shreveport Police Department (SPD), the Madison Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO), and the Monroe Police Department (MPD) investigated these cases.
The Henry Holloway case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheyenne Wilson with the assistance of Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan. The Terrance Long and Chamorea Bell cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Crichton with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, community leaders, and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. PSN is coordinated by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the 94 federal judicial districts throughout the 50 states and U.S. territories.
You may find a copy of these press releases (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under their respective Case Numbers:
Henry Holloway — 3:25 cr 00268
Terrance Long — 3:25-cr-00295
Chamorea Bell —5:25-cr-00344
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Illegal Alien Sentenced for Re-Entry into the United States after Previous Felony Child Endangerment ConvictionRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – On July 8, 2026, District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Johnny Salazar-Ruano, 41, of Honduras, to one year in federal prison after his March 19, 2026, Guilty Plea for Illegal Reentry of a Removed Alien. Salazar-Ruano had been residing in Bossier City.
Salazar-Ruano was previously removed from the United States on July 3, 2014, on August 17, 2015, and a third time on February 1, 2021, after being convicted in Caddo Parish of felony Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment. In that case, Salazar-Ruano pled guilty to assaulting a woman in the presence of her 12-year-old child.
On January 10, 2026, Salazar-Ruano was again in the United States. Bossier City Police Department (BCPD) officers conducted a traffic stop on a van after observing the driver fail to signal before turning. Officers had prior information from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) that the registered owner of the vehicle had an active federal warrant for Illegal Reentry of a Removed Alien. The driver, later identified as Salazar-Ruano, was ordered to exit the vehicle but refused to comply. When officers opened the driver's door, Salazar-Ruano attempted to crawl toward the passenger side of the vehicle to avoid being detained. After a brief struggle, officers removed Salazar-Ruano from the van, secured him in handcuffs, and verified the active warrant for his removal from the United States. In this incident, Salazar-Ruano was also charged with resisting an officer.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The BCPD, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and HSI investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison Foster with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:26-cr-00037-01.
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United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
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Twitter @USAO_WDLALouisiana Man Charged with Murder of a Federal Officer After Standoff with Federal and State Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE / ALEXANDRIA — Yesterday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Clarence A. Frazier Jr., 48, of Alexandria, Louisiana by criminal complaint with the murder of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson who was working with other law enforcement to apprehend Frazier after he failed to appear for trial on a state charge of sexual battery. If convicted, Frazier faces a maximum sentence of life in prison or death.
“U.S. Marshals risk their lives every day - securing our courts, protecting our communities, and working shoulder-to-shoulder with local law enforcement to bring dangerous fugitives to justice. Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson embodied that courage and dedication,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Tragically, the defendant's alleged actions claimed the life of a dedicated law enforcement officer who was simply doing his duty. The alleged perpetrator is now in custody and will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Marshal Hanson's family and the entire law enforcement community mourning his loss. Drew paid the ultimate price while protecting our communities. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his service will forever stand as an inspiration to all who wear the badge.”
“Our men and women put their lives on the line every day to apprehend the country’s most dangerous criminals,” said Director Gadyaces Serralta of the U.S. Marshals Service. “When a Deputy U.S. Marshal is killed in the line of duty serving an arrest warrant on a violent fugitive, this agency and, indeed the entire country mourn that loss. While we are all profoundly heartbroken by Drew Hanson’s tragic death, we are at the same time grateful for his unselfish devotion to protecting his community and those he loved.”
“Our Office joins all of our Western District community and the Department of Justice in mourning and honoring the loss of this Deputy Marshal — a man who was a father, a husband, a son, and a child of God — as someone who paid the ultimate price in service of our community’s safety,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana. “This investigation is ongoing and a criminal complaint is only an allegation, but our office looks forward to working alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners to ensure that justice is done and that accountability reflects the enormity of the loss our community grieves today.”
“The FBI offers our deepest condolences to the family of Deputy U.S. Marshal Hanson, who was killed in the line of duty while doing his job pursuing a subject wanted for violent crime” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We will commit our full force of resources to conduct a thorough investigation with our partners at the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office and the Department of Justice to ensure the individual responsible for this horrific act is brought to justice. The FBI sends our prayers to Deputy Hanson’s family, friends, and our partners at the U.S. Marshal’s service."
According to court documents, law enforcement from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) and the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) secured an arrest warrant for Frazier on July 13 in connection with his failure to appear in state court to face trial on a charge of Sexual Battery with a Person with Infirmities. RPSO and USMS personnel located Frazier at his residence and obtained a search warrant for the residence before attempting to approach Frazier. The officers then approached Frazier’s residence while bearing clear law enforcement markings to execute the warrant, announced their presence, and forced entry into the residence.
Officers then found Frazier in his bedroom, where he barricaded himself and shot at the officers, striking a Deputy United States Marshal who later succumbed to his injuries. Frazier then engaged in a further standoff with law enforcement in his bedroom until he was taken into custody.
The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from RPSO.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys John W. Nickel and Elliott Cassidy for the Western District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills and Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Louisiana Man Charged with Murder of a Federal Officer After Standoff with Federal and State Law EnforcementRead the Press Release
Yesterday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Clarence A. Frazier Jr., 48 of Alexandria, Louisiana by criminal complaint with the murder of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson who was working with other law enforcement to apprehend Frazier after he failed to appear for trial on a state charge of sexual battery. If convicted, Frazier faces a maximum sentence of life in prison or death.
“U.S. Marshals risk their lives every day - securing our courts, protecting our communities, and working shoulder-to-shoulder with local law enforcement to bring dangerous fugitives to justice. Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson embodied that courage and dedication,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Tragically, the defendant's alleged actions claimed the life of a dedicated law enforcement officer who was simply doing his duty. The alleged perpetrator is now in custody and will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Marshal Hanson's family and the entire law enforcement community mourning his loss. Drew paid the ultimate price while protecting our communities. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his service will forever stand as an inspiration to all who wear the badge.”
“Our men and women put their lives on the line every day to apprehend the country’s most dangerous criminals,” said Director Gadyaces Serralta of the U.S. Marshals Service. “When a Deputy U.S. Marshal is killed in the line of duty serving an arrest warrant on a violent fugitive, this agency and, indeed the entire country mourn that loss. While we are all profoundly heartbroken by Drew Hanson’s tragic death, we are at the same time grateful for his unselfish devotion to protecting his community and those he loved.”
“Our Office joins all of our Western District community and the Department of Justice in mourning and honoring the loss of this Deputy Marshal — a man who was a father, a husband, a son, and a child of God — as someone who paid the ultimate price in service of our community’s safety,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana. “This investigation is ongoing and a criminal complaint is only an allegation, but our office looks forward to working alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners to ensure that justice is done and that accountability reflects the enormity of the loss our community grieves today.”
“The FBI offers our deepest condolences to the family of Deputy U.S. Marshal Hanson, who was killed in the line of duty while doing his job pursuing a subject wanted for violent crime” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We will commit our full force of resources to conduct a thorough investigation with our partners at the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office and the Department of Justice to ensure the individual responsible for this horrific act is brought to justice. The FBI sends our prayers to Deputy Hanson’s family, friends, and our partners at the U.S. Marshal’s service."
According to court documents, law enforcement from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) and the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) secured an arrest warrant for Frazier on July 13 in connection with his failure to appear in state court to face trial on a charge of Sexual Battery with a Person with Infirmities. RPSO and USMS personnel located Frazier at his residence and obtained a search warrant for the residence before attempting to approach Frazier. The officers then approached Frazier’s residence while bearing clear law enforcement markings to execute the warrant, announced their presence, and forced entry into the residence.
Officers then found Frazier in his bedroom, where he barricaded himself and shot at the officers, striking a Deputy United States Marshal who later succumbed to his injuries. Frazier then engaged in a further standoff with law enforcement in his bedroom until he was taken into custody.
The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from RPSO.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel for the Western District of Louisiana is prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Crowley Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking; Co-Defendant Also Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE–On June 30, 2026, District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Marcus Redlich, 26, of Crowley, to 10 years in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 846, 841(a)(l).
A close associate of Redlich’s, Marley Guidry, 22, also of Crowley, pled guilty to the same offense on July 1, 2026.
According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identified Redlich in July 2024 as a suspected methamphetamine trafficker operating in and around the region. Over several months, agents conducted extensive surveillance and determined that Redlich worked closely with an associate, Guidry, who helped transport, supply, and facilitate Redlich’s distribution activities throughout the area.
On August 28, 2025, federal and state authorities coordinated search and enforcement actions. Louisiana State Police initiated a traffic stop on Redlich along Interstate 10 at mile marker 97 in Lafayette Parish. Redlich briefly slowed his vehicle but suddenly accelerated in an attempt to flee, directing a passenger to throw two white grocery bags out of the vehicle before crashing and being apprehended. Troopers recovered two clear, vacuum sealed bags containing approximately three pounds of pure methamphetamine from the roadside where the bags were discarded.
Simultaneously, Acadia Parish Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at Redlich’s residence in Crowley. Agents recovered additional quantities of pure methamphetamine, digital scales, and plastic baggies, along with other controlled substances. Redlich later admitted to possessing the narcotics found in his home.
A separate search warrant executed on Guidry’s home also uncovered a significant quantity of illegal narcotics, including pure methamphetamine, Dimethyl Sulfone, cocaine, and other controlled substances.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office (LPSO), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Louisiana State Police (LSP), and Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO).
It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte Murphy with assistance from Legal Administrative Specialist Christy Angelle.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25 CR 00326 01.
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Western District of Louisiana
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Member of Eleven-Person Meth Trafficking Ring Sentenced to over 24 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – On June 26, 2026, Perry Willis, 37, of Natchitoches, was sentenced to 292 months in federal prison after his guilty plea to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in connection with an eleven-person drug trafficking conspiracy operating in central Louisiana.
“This significant sentence reflects the serious threat this organization posed to our community and the importance of dismantling high-volume illicit drug suppliers lurking in our midst,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This Office remains committed to protecting our communities and bringing these dangerous criminals to justice.”
In 2023, the DEA launched an investigation into this drug trafficking ring operating across Louisiana and Texas. Wire taps and surveillance identified Willis and his co-conspirator, Daniel Efferson, 33, of Natchitoches, as members of the network. The investigation escalated on August 16, 2024, when Louisiana authorities conducted a traffic stop of Efferson near the state line. Efferson, Willis, and Jaquez Flakes, 19, of Natchitoches, fled the stop, initiating a vehicle chase that ended in a crash. Agents recovered approximately nine kilograms of methamphetamine and twenty-four pounds of synthetic marijuana from the vehicle. The crash led to further investigation in Houston, where agents seized 221.5 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine, disguised as bottled water, and discovered a meth conversion lab with burners, pots, and 11 kilograms of processed methamphetamine. These seizures linked Willis, Efferson, Flakes, and 8 other co-conspirators to the same supply network.
Others previously charged and sentenced in the case are:
Daniel Efferson, 33, of Natchitoches — 360 months (30 years)
Christopher Caffey, 37, of Shreveport — 262 months (over 21 years)
Joshua Hardy, 32, of Shreveport — 151 months (over 12 years)
Delannie Lee, 51, of Shreveport — 168 months (14 years)
Crystal Williams, 36, of Mansfield — 60 months (5 years)
Kellie Yates, 50, of Shreveport — 3 years’ probation
Amadeo Penaloza-Meza, 22, of Mexico — 135 months (over 11 years)
Brayan Sandoval, 22, of Mexico — 135 months (over 11 years)
Jeffrey Flack, 51, of Shreveport — 120 months (10 years)The last remaining defendant, Flakes, will be sentenced in August of 2026.
The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Louisiana State Police, and multiple local law-enforcement partners investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:24-CR-00256-10.
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Western District of Louisiana
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Twitter @USAO_WDLALafayette Man Sentenced to over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On June 30, 2026, Javon Robertson, 40, of Lafayette, was sentenced to 66 months in federal prison after his April 2026 guilty plea to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. As part of his plea, Robinson forfeited $79,805.00 in U.S. currency and a 2023 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray, which were proceeds derived from his sale of illegal narcotics.
“Methamphetamine continues to inflict tremendous harm on families and communities across Louisiana,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This sentence reflects our office’s commitment to holding traffickers accountable and to supporting the law enforcement partners who work every day to keep our neighborhoods safe.”
In July of 2025, the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit opened an investigation into Robertson based on information that he was selling narcotics out of his home in Lafayette, Louisiana. While surveilling Robertson’s residence, law enforcement observed Robertson leave his residence, meet an individual at a local store, and conduct a “hand-to-hand” transaction of suspected illegal drugs. The recipient in this transaction admitted to law enforcement that she had just purchased drugs from Robertson. Law Enforcement then obtained a search warrant for Robertson’s residence, which was executed on July 29, 2025. During the execution of this search warrant, agents seized large quantities of controlled substances and drug distribution paraphernalia, including two hydraulic presses, a currency counter, and $79,805.00 in U.S. currency. Robertson admitted to law enforcement that the seized narcotics belonged to him. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s South-Central Laboratory confirmed that the narcotics seized from Robertson’s residence included 38.22 grams of cocaine base, 134.9 grams of cocaine, and 90.46 grams of methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Unit (LPSONU) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren L. Nickel with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-CR-00322-01.
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Hammond Woman Indicted for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute; Faces up to life in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On June 17, 2026, a federal grand jury in Lafayette returned an indictment charging Kimberly Deshay Hill, 52, of Hammond, with Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(A)(ii). Hill faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in federal prison for the charges.
According to court documents, on March 31, 2026, a Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office CAT Unit deputy stopped Hill’s vehicle on I-10 for a traffic violation. Hill had no valid driver’s license, an unrestrained child in the car, and gave conflicting statements about her travel plans. A K-9 alerted to narcotics and a search of the vehicle uncovered twelve kilogram-sized packages of cocaine weighing about 29.8 pounds, as depicted below:
Homeland Security Homeland SecurityU.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case, led by Special Agent Matthew Moon. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Sarver with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 2:26-cr-00238-01.
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Former Louisiana Detention Officer Sentenced to Three Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Abuse of a DetaineeRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On June 26, 2026, David Courvelle, 56, a former Contract Detention Officer at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Basile, Louisiana, was sentenced to three years in federal prison after his December 29, 2025, plea to one count of Sexual Abuse of a Ward.
“This three-year sentence reflects the seriousness of Mr. Courvelle’s conduct, which involved both a sexual relationship with a detainee and using other detainees to coordinate and cover up his crime,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Those entrusted with authority over detained persons must be held to the highest standards, and violations of that trust will be prosecuted.”
According to court documents, Courvelle served as a Contract Detention Officer between January and July 2025, during which time he engaged in prohibited sexual contact with a female detainee at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center. Evidence shows Courvelle developed a relationship with the detainee and provided her with gifts, family photos, and other items. He also arranged for other detainees to act as lookouts during their sexual encounters to avoid detection. In a statement to investigators conducted pursuant to the Prison Rape Elimination Act, the victim explained that she felt pressured to perform sexual acts on Courvelle while they were together.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The investigation was conducted by the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Myers P. Namie and Thomas A. Johnson with assistance from Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:25-CR-00354.
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Twitter @USAO_WDLAFormer Secretary of Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Take Illegal Kickbacks in Awarding Government ContractRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On June 30, 2026, former Secretary of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (“LDWF”) Jack Montoucet, 78, was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison for conspiring to defraud the United States by soliciting and accepting kickbacks in return for awarding a state contract. Montoucet previously pled guilty on March 31, 2026.
According to court documents, Montoucet, while Secretary of the LDWF, steered an LDWF contract to a company called DGL1, LLC, in exchange for one-third of the profit, with the other two-thirds divided between Montoucet’s two co-conspirators, Dusty Guidry and Leonard Franques. On January 27, 2021, Montoucet caused LDWF to award a no-bid contract to DGL1 to provide online hunter and boater education courses. After the Louisiana Division of Administration, Office of Special Procurement raised concerns about the no-bid contract, the LDWF put out for public bids a contract to provide these educational classes. Montoucet used his position with LDWF to ensure DGL1 had a competitive advantage in the bidding process and DGL1 was awarded the contract.
On October 8, 2021, Montoucet, acting as Secretary, signed a contract with DGL1 to provide the hunter and boater classes in the knowledge that he would receive kickbacks. A month later, Montoucet met with Franques and Guidry to discuss how to conceal the payouts, agreeing that Franques would hold Montoucet’s portion until after he departed LDWF and pay it to him as a purported “signing bonus” for consulting work.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Myers P. Namie, Lauren L. Nickel, and LaDonte A. Murphy, along with Trial Attorney Alex Dempsey of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section of the Department of Justice, with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-cr-00134.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
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Twitter @USAO_WDLAFour Former Oakdale-Area Law Enforcement Leaders and One Business Owner Plead Guilty to Falsifying Police Reports and Bribery to Perpetrate Decade-Long Visa Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALEXANDRIA – On June 30, 2026, Glynn Dixon, 62, of Forest Hill, pled guilty in federal court for his role in a decade-long scheme involving bribery and a conspiracy to commit visa fraud and mail fraud after his four co-conspirators, Chandrakant Patel, 40, of Oakdale, Chad Doyle, 55, of Oakdale, Michael Slaney, 64, of Oakdale, and Tebo Onishea, 38, of Glenmora, each pled guilty to the same in recent weeks. The defendants were originally indicted on July 2, 2025. Dixon, Doyle, Onishea, and Slaney each face up to 5 years in prison. Patel faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
At the time of the offenses, four of the defendants were serving in high-profile law enforcement positions: Doyle as Oakdale Chief of Police; Slaney as Oakdale Marshal for Ward 5; Dixon as Forest Hill Chief of Police; and Onishea as Glenmora Chief of Police. Patel was a business owner.
“These defendants’ disgraceful fraud endangered our community and undermined the public trust in the immigration system solely to line their own pockets,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “These guilty pleas confirm the depth of corruption uncovered here and the strength of the evidence developed during an incredible investigation by our law enforcement partners working together, and our Office looks forward to advocating for prison time for each defendant that reflects the seriousness of the crimes they committed.”
“HSI is committed to protecting the integrity of our immigration system and lawful immigration benefits,” said Matt Wright, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations, New Orleans. “When anyone, including public officials, exploits immigration relief programs or commits fraud against the government, HSI and our law enforcement partners will investigate, dismantle these schemes, and work to bring those responsible to justice.”
"These guilty pleas demonstrate accountability for officials who breach public trust and misuse federal systems," said Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, of the IRS-CI Atlanta field office. "This case shows how IRS Criminal Investigation special agents tracked the funds, uncovered irregularities, and dismantled a network."
“Mr. Patel and his law enforcement co-conspirators corrupted the process that helps actual victims of violent crime to allow people to remain in our country under an alleged fraud." said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI's New Orleans Field Office. "The FBI will continue to work with our federal partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office to ensure people who engage in this type of corrupt criminal activity are brought to justice.”
The case involves the abuse of U nonimmigrant status, or “U-Visas.” Congress created the U-Visa with the passage of the Victims of Trafficking and Violence Protection Act in October 2000. The legislation was intended to strengthen the ability of law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute crime while also protecting victims of crimes who are willing to help law enforcement authorities in the investigation or prosecution of that criminal activity. Foreign nationals are eligible for a U-Visa if they meet certain criteria, including but not limited to, if they were a victim of qualifying criminal activity that occurred in or violated laws of the United States, or possessed information about the criminal activity.
According to court documents, the defendants engaged in U-Visa fraud from December 2015 through July 2025 by fabricating police reports that falsely documented armed robberies that never occurred and then providing these fictitious reports to noncitizens who used them to support fraudulent U-Visa applications. The foreign nationals pursuing U-Visas would pay Patel thousands of dollars to be named as “victims” in these fabricated incidents, and Patel then secured false police reports by coordinating with defendants Doyle, Slaney, Dixon, and Onishea, each of whom used their positions in law enforcement to certify the fraudulent reports. Court records also show that Patel attempted to bribe an agent of the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office with $5,000 in February 2025 to obtain such a report. In addition, the defendants submitted falsified documents via the U.S. Postal Service and other carriers, constituting additional mail fraud charges.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI); and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) – Fraud Detection and National Security Division, as part of the Homeland Security Task Force under Operation Take Back America. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John W. Nickel and Danny Siefker, with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Joanne Henry-Mills and Denise Duhon.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Homeland Security Task Force (“HSTF”) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (“TCOs”), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (“OCDETFs”) and Project Safe Neighborhood (“PSN”).
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 1:25 cr 00173.
###CONTACT: Public Affairs [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDL
New Iberia Man Sentenced to Twelve Years in Federal Prison for Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On June 16, 2026, Isaiah Robinson, 27, of New Iberia, was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for Enticement of a Minor. Robinson also received a 10-year term of supervised release to follow his imprisonment.
“This case reflects our commitment to protect children and seek justice for the most vulnerable among us and, more importantly, the importance of parents remaining vigilant and reporting this criminal activity to law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Our Office, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue offenders who exploit minors, including by investigating tips provided by parents and others who see something suspicious, and bring these predators to justice.”
According to court documents, Robinson was engaged in an online conversation with a minor on Snapchat whom Robinson knew to be a female child approximately 12 years old in January 2024. During the conversation, Robinson requested that the child send explicit photos of herself to him. The minor child’s father discovered the conversation on the child’s phone and alerted law enforcement, who were able to confirm Robinson’s identity as the user of that Snapchat account.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon II with assistance from Legal Administrative Specialist Tanya Broussard.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:25-CR-00015-1.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLTwo Mexican Nationals Charged in Drone-Based Methamphetamine Smuggling Scheme at Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Alexandria – On June 23, 2026, two criminal complaints were filed charging Gustavo Mendoza-Alvarez, 25, and Osvaldo Lopez-Sanchez, 28, both of Mexico, with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Both defendants face up to life in federal prison on the charged offenses.
“These charges reflect the serious danger posed by smugglers who attempt to deliver narcotics into our federal prison system and who endanger innocent motorists and law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will continue working with our federal, state, and local partners to stop the flow of drugs into correctional facilities and ensure accountability for those who carry out these dangerous schemes.”
According to court documents, the investigation began on June 14, 2026, when the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office received reports of a drone flying near the Federal Correctional Complex in Pollock, Louisiana (FCC-Pollock). Detectives responding to the area found recent footprints and observed a vehicle with Texas license plates attempting to avoid law enforcement. During the pursuit, the fleeing vehicle—driven by Lopez-Sanchez with Mendoza-Alvarez as the passenger—struck a marked Grant Parish patrol vehicle and later collided head-on with a Ford F-350. Both men were taken into custody, and a search of their phones revealed images of a drone, THC wax, and what appeared to be methamphetamine.
Investigators later executed a search warrant at a nearby hotel where they located approximately 446 grams of methamphetamine, 114 grams of marijuana, THC vapes, 21 cell phones, a wallet containing Mendoza-Alvarez’s Mexican voter ID, assorted ammunition, spare drone propellers, and a drone operator harness, as depicted below:
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Alexandria Resident Agency, the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Ruston Area Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization DismantledRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – In June 2026, the last three defendants in a fourteen‑defendant methamphetamine trafficking organization were sentenced to federal prison. After pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, the defendants received sentences of varying lengths, with the highest reaching 27 years.
According to court documents, in February 2024, federal authorities began investigating Shedrick Green III, 41, and Cornelius Boston, 45, for distributing methamphetamine in and around Ruston, Louisiana. As part of the investigation, agents made controlled drug purchases, obtained Title III wiretaps, subpoenaed financial records, conducted traffic stops, and carried out multiple search warrants. The investigation revealed that the men obtained their supply of methamphetamine from two sources: Ferrano Barnes, 55, of Lodi, California, and Felipe Penaloza Gomez, 40, of Mexico. The methamphetamine was then stored and distributed from five locations in Ruston. Search warrants and CashApp records revealed coordinated payments among conspirators used to obtain, transport, and distribute the drugs. Searches ultimately led to the seizure of more than 22 pounds of methamphetamine and approximately $55,000 in cash from locations in Ruston and Sulphur.
“This case shows the power of coordinated effort between federal, state, and local law enforcement, who worked together here to dismantle a large and complex drug trafficking conspiracy devoted to poisoning our rural North Louisiana community with methamphetamine,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Our Office is tirelessly working with our partners to disrupt and dismantle these networks throughout the District as part of the nationwide Operation Take Back America initiative.”
For their roles in the methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy, the defendants were sentenced to the following terms of imprisonment:
Cornelius Boston, 45, of Ruston, LA180 monthsShedrick Green, 41, of Ruston, LA146.5 monthsLandon Askins, 44, of Ruston, LA300 monthsFerrano Barnes, 55, of Lodi, CA168 monthsJakevdrick Carter, 35, of Ruston, LA162 monthsReyna Chavez-Rios, 43, of Mexico18 monthsBroderick Graham, 32, of Ruston, LA120 monthsMarcus Gray, 42, of Salinas, KS210 monthsLadavid Hunter, 38, of Jonesboro, LA262 monthsKimoni McMurray, 47, of Ruston, LA324 monthsJason Potts, 47, of Ruston, LA120 monthsTangua Raybon, 57, of Winnfield, LA40 monthsRoy Lee Williams, 41, of Ruston, LA120 monthsFelipe Penaloza Gomez, 40, of MexicoFugitiveU.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Lincoln Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, Ruston Police Department, Sulphur Police Department, Louisiana National Guard Counterdrug Unit, Louisiana Air National Guard, and U.S. Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Cassidy and Elliott Cassidy with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 24-cr-00264-01.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
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Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Caddo Parish Man Sentenced to Twenty Years in Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT – On June 10, 2026, Morgan J. Moore, 36 of Shreveport, was sentenced to the statutory maximum of 240 months in federal prison and 10 years of supervised release after a jury found him guilty of one count of Possession and seven counts of Receipt of Child Pornography. The sentences will be served concurrently.
On May 28, 2024, Caddo Parish detectives received a cyber tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that Moore had uploaded child pornography onto the KIK messaging app. A search warrant for Moore’s residence recovered multiple devices containing approximately 19,125 files containing child pornography. According to court documents, digital evidence of these crimes included graphic videos depicting sexual abuse of children as young as four years old.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated this case, with NCMEC providing additional investigative material. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cheyenne Wilson and Earl Campbell with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Amanda Morgan.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:25-cr-00050.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Ouachita Parish Man Sentenced to Twenty Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
MONROE– On May 21, 2026, Stanquan Lavelle Shaw, a.k.a. “Munchie,” a 36-year-old Ouachita Parish man, was sentenced to 240 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm and to possessing that firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. In addition to his prison sentence, Shaw will serve five years of supervised release following his release from federal prison.
According to court documents, officers of the Monroe Police Department saw Shaw driving in Monroe and attempted to stop him based on Shaw’s having outstanding warrants. Shaw fled from law enforcement, ultimately crashing his car into a person’s parked car and fleeing on foot. Officers caught Shaw during his flight and arrested him. While investigating the scene, officers recovered methamphetamine from Shaw’s car, a 9mm bullet in his pocket, and a firearm recovered from a puddle along his flight path that officers found using a police dog. By law, Shaw was not allowed to possess firearms because he had prior felony convictions for Conspiracy to Commit Armed Robbery with a Firearm and for Simple Robbery.
The Monroe Police Department, West Monroe Police Department, Ouachita Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Gaskins with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-cr-00269.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Jackson Parish Inmate Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl Hoax Directed at Supreme Court of the United StatesRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT– On May 21, 2026, Alvieyle Moore, a 40-year-old inmate at the Jackson Parish Jail, was sentenced to the statutory maximum of 60 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to perpetrating a hoax relating to purported chemical weapons directed at the United States Supreme Court. In addition to his prison sentence, Moore will serve three years of supervised release following his release from federal prison.
According to court documents, Moore mailed a threatening letter to the Supreme Court of the United States that falsely claimed to be laced with fentanyl that would kill its reader. The letter, which contained approximately one tablespoon of a white, powdery substance and stated, “IF You Are Reading this you are gonna die soon because this letter is laced with Fentanyl!!”, caused the evacuation of the Supreme Court’s warehouse facility and prompted a hazardous materials team response.
The Supreme Court of the United States Police - Protective Intelligence Unit, United States Secret Service, and Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Ginger Green.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-cr-00257.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana Celebrates “Freedom 250” with Hometown Hero Award and Office Charity DriveRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE, LA – In celebration of Freedom 250, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana presented the Alexandria Police Department’s Chief of Police Chad Gremillion with the Freedom 250 Hometown Hero Award on May 20, 2026. The award recognizes public officials who have demonstrated steadfast commitment to service and who embody the spirit upon which our Nation was founded.
“Freedom 250 is an opportunity to recognize and reflect upon the values that define our Nation: service, sacrifice, and community,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Chief Gremillion exemplifies those values through his dedication to public safety and his continued commitment to serving the citizens of Alexandria.”
Police Chief Gremillion began his law enforcement career at the Alexandria Police Department in 1995. While working for the Alexandria Police, Chief Gremillion worked as a patrol officer and was assigned to the traffic division. In 1999, Chief Gremillion graduated from the Louisiana State Police Training Academy and began his career as a Louisiana State Trooper assigned to Troop E. While employed with the Louisiana State Police, Chief Gremillion served in uniform patrol, criminal investigations, intelligence division, and the special victims unit.
During his time as a trooper and federal task force officer, Chief Gremillion was awarded the Louisiana State Police “Trooper of the Year” and received a lifesaving award, among other commendations. Chief Gremillion retired from the Louisiana State Police in 2023, and, that same year Alexandria Mayor Jacques Roy appointed him as the Interim Chief of Police for the Alexandria Police Department. Chief Gremillion is a past board member of the Rapides Children’s Advocacy Center and Metanoia Manor for victims of human trafficking, and he and his family attend Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church where he is the chair of the Pastoral Council.
The United States Attorney’s Offices in Shreveport and Lafayette also celebrated Freedom 250 by participating in the gift-in-kind charity drives by collecting and donating food and clothing to individuals and families in need. In Lafayette, the clothing collected was donated to the Lovewell Center, while business attire was donated to the University of Louisiana Career Closet to assist individuals preparing to enter the workforce. In Shreveport, the Office collected over 400 pounds of food as part of a non-perishable food drive to support the Northwest Louisiana Food Bank.
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Lake Charles-Area Volunteer Coach Charged and Detained for Producing Child Pornography of Local Minor BoysRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On May 26, 2026, Rylekwun J. Poullard, a 29-year-old Lake Charles resident, was ordered detained after being charged by criminal complaint with the production of child pornography in connection with his preying upon young boys in South Louisiana. If indicted and convicted, Poullard faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in federal prison and up to 30 years for the charge.
According to evidence presented in court, Poullard, who was a volunteer sports coach in the Lake Charles area, used an Instagram account in which he posed as an adult female named “Brianna” to trick young boys to produce child pornography, offering them money to create photos and videos of themselves engaging in sex acts and to recruit their siblings as well. At least three of victims were boys residing in South Louisiana, with Poullard offering the boys money to perform sex acts and, for two of the boys, to get their brothers involved in the pornographic activity. Poullard was caught after a parent reported the activity to police after finding explicit messages on a victim’s cell phone and police investigated, securing search warrants for Poullard’s electronic devices that uncovered the activity that, by his own admission, had gone on for roughly a year and a half. Poullard was detained pending trial as a danger to the community.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Rayne Police Department, and Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon II with assistance from Legal Administrative Specialist Tanya Broussard.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 26-mj-00116-01.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA
U.S. Senate Confirms Zachary A. Keller as United States Attorney for the Western District of LouisianaRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE– On May 18, 2026, the United States Senate confirmed Zachary A. Keller as the United States Attorney of the Western District of Louisiana (WDLA), a role he assumed in September 2025 on an interim basis.
“Since beginning my service, I’ve woken up every morning with the mindset that serving my home as United States Attorney is the most important and impactful public service I’ll ever perform, and it’s been the honor of a lifetime to work alongside my WDLA colleagues to keep our community safe,” said U.S. Attorney Keller. “I thank President Trump for honoring me with the opportunity to continue serving my home community, and I look forward to the work that’s ahead.”
A West Monroe native, Mr. Keller graduated from George Welch Elementary, West Monroe Middle School, and West Monroe High School before attending Louisiana State University and Yale Law School. After law school, Mr. Keller began his career at Jones Day’s Dallas office before beginning his work in public service in 2016. Prior to becoming U.S. Attorney, Mr. Keller served as a Deputy Chief and Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator in the Major Crimes section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida, where he also served in the Civil, Appellate, and Criminal divisions and prosecuted crimes that ranged from manslaughter and carjacking to money laundering and child exploitation. He resides in Youngsville with his wife and two young children, and they volunteer with the Sunday school program at Asbury United Methodist Church.
As U.S. Attorney, Mr. Keller oversees the investigation and litigation of all criminal and civil cases brought on behalf of the United States in the Western District of Louisiana. The Western District consists of 42 of the State’s 64 parishes and geographically encompasses two-thirds of the State of Louisiana.
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CONTACT
Public Affairs
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United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller Recognizes the Law Enforcement Community During National Police WeekRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT– In honor of National Police Week, United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officers. The week is observed May 10 through May 16, 2026.
“During National Police Week, we pause to honor the courageous men and women of law enforcement who dedicate their lives to protecting our communities—and especially those who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty,” said United States Attorney Keller. “Our Office and community are deeply grateful for the unwavering commitment of our local, state, and federal officers who keep us safe while serving with integrity, courage, and honor.”
Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche kicked off National Police Week 2026 by hosting a breakfast at the Department of Justice to honor law enforcement officers and their families, emphasizing a message of "we love law enforcement". He celebrated their daily work, stating that the week is meant to honor the fallen while recognizing those who "keep us safe every day".
In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty.
Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe.
In 2025, there were 111 federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement officers that died in the line of duty., representing 25% decrease from the 148 deaths in 2024. Of those officers who died, 53 were feloniously killed. There were 44 firearm related incidents, 34 from traffic related deaths and 33 other causes including health-related, etc. Demographically, the average age of fallen officers was 44, with an average of 14 years of service. Five of those officers who died in the line of duty were from Louisiana.
For National Police Week 2026, a total of 363 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty were added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
On today, May 13, 2026, 109 names of law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty during 2025 will be formally dedicated during the 38th Annual Candlelight Vigil held in Washington, D.C. You can view it livestream:
YouTube: YouTube.com/NLEOMF
Facebook: Facebook.com/NLEOMF
LinkedIn: Linkedin.com/company/national-law-enforcement-officers-memorial-fund
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
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CONTACT
Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
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Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Former Catahoula Prison Warden, Assistant Warden, and Other Supervisors Indicted for Abusing 13 Handcuffed Prisoners with an Electric Riot Shield and for Trying to Cover It up; One Former Officer Pleads Guilty to Falsifying Reports and Related AbuseRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT– On May 7, a federal grand jury in Shreveport returned a thirty-four count indictment charging several former managers of the Catahoula Parish Correctional Center (“CPCC”) with crimes relating to the use of an electrified riot shield to shock and crush 13 handcuffed, non-resisting prisoners:
Jeremy Wiley, 44 of Harrisonburg, the former Warden of CPCC, was charged with 13 counts of abuse of rights under color of law for using the electrified riot shield to shock and crush the 13 handcuffed, non-resisting prisoners.
Gary Allen, 57 of Winnsboro, CPCC’s former Assistant Warden, William Savage, 57 of Monroe, CPCC’s former Colonel, and James Wathen, 37 of Jonesville, CPCC’s former chief of security, were charged with 13 counts of abuse of rights for their failures to intervene to stop the assaults.
Chad Littleton, 45 of Harrisonburg, a former Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Deputy, was charged with one count of abuse of rights for striking a prisoner in the head and genitals.
All five men were also charged with conspiring to violate the rights of the prisoners as well as falsifying reports about the incident. Allen also faces one count of witness tampering. In addition, on April 14, Carl Michael Williamson, 40 of Jonesville, a former CPCC transportation officer, pleaded guilty in a related case to one count of abuse of rights under color of law for striking one of the inmates in the head and one count of falsifying a report which covered up the abuse of the 13 prisoners.
The defendants face up to ten years imprisonment on the abuse of rights and conspiracy counts, and up to twenty years imprisonment on the false report and witness tampering offenses.
“The facts as alleged dishonor the men and women who put their safety on the line every day to maintain order in our prison system, and they are a disgraceful abuse of the trust that we place in them to treat people in prison with dignity and respect,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “The Department of Justice will zealously investigate and prosecute any officer—no matter their title or rank—who tarnishes the badge worn by the brave men and women of Louisiana’s law enforcement community.”
“The FBI will not tolerate law enforcement officers’ criminal abuse and mistreatment of prisoners in their custody,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “We will diligently investigate allegations such as these and hold the perpetrators accountable. The FBI is grateful for its law enforcement partners and especially the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana for its work on this case.”
According to court documents, on February 1, 2024, then-Warden Wiley used an electrified riot shield to shock and crush 13 men in the custody of CPCC while they were handcuffed, compliant, and subdued by pepper spray in a CPCC recreation yard. Allen, Savage, and Wathen, who were high-ranking supervisors at the facility, had the means and opportunity to stop the abuse but instead chose not to intervene. Littleton and Williamson continued the assault by also striking prisoners. All six of the men wrote false reports to cover up what happened, and Allen continued the obstructive activity by tampering with a witness. Before the assault, the 13 prisoners had been housed in “Cell 12,” a cell containing six beds, for several days. The prisoners were transported to the rec yard where the assault occurred shortly after they started a non-violent protest regarding their overcrowded living conditions.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Johnson and LaDonte Murphy with assistance from Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for United States v. Jeremy Wiley et al. is 26-CR-00190, and the case number for United States v. Carl Williamson is 26-CR-00127.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs [email protected]
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana Twitter @USAO_WDLA
Shreveport Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT– On April 27, 2026, Felanda Ashton, a 53-year-old Shreveport resident, was sentenced to 211 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking activity. In addition to his prison sentence, Ashton will serve five years of supervised release following his release from federal prison.
According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) received a tip that Shreveport resident Ashton was selling a large amount of methamphetamine from his vehicle. Caddo Parish SO located 187.1 grams of pure methamphetamine in his vehicle following a traffic stop. A subsequent tip claimed Ashton was continuing his drug operation out of his daughter’s home. When officers attempted to execute an arrest warrant, Ashton fled scene and threw a fanny pack containing 84.7 grams of methamphetamine, suspected Klonopin pills and 10 blue pills containing fentanyl. Officers also located a loaded Glock pistol in his vehicle.
The DEA investigated this case with assistance from the United States Army Criminal Investigation Division and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was investigated and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 24-cr-00234.
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Western District of Louisiana
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Lafayette Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Crimes Against ChildrenRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE– On April 30, 2026, Moses Hernandez, a 34-year-old former Lafayette resident, was sentenced to 228 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to receipt of child pornography. In addition to his prison sentence, Hernandez will serve 25 years of supervised release following his release from federal prison.
Evidence presented in court showed that in July 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) received a tip that Hernandez had confessed to an acquaintance that he had molested a young girl and produced material of the molestation. Using the information, the FBI found Hernandez, who then resided in Lafayette, and opened an investigation. During investigation, the FBI obtained a warrant to search Hernandez’s cell phone. The search of his cell phone revealed images and videos that included child rape, bestiality, and other forms of graphic child pornography.
The FBI investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-cr-00257.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
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Virginia-Based Naval Serviceman Charged for Transporting Lafayette-Area Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – On April 30, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Sadiq Rauf Perry, a 27-year-old Virginia-based naval serviceman, by criminal complaint with transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. Perry faces 10 years up to life in federal prison for the charge.
“This case is every parent’s worst nightmare, and our Office deeply appreciates our law enforcement partners’ quick action that led to the recovery of this minor girl. The case is also a reminder to every parent that we must not only be vigilant in our children’s use of the Internet but must also act quickly to report situations where a child may be taken in by one of these predators,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “The tragedy of these cases is that the criminal acts are not something we can take away or undo. That said, we look forward to prosecuting this matter to the fullest extent of the law to ensure accountability and deterrence for these heinous acts and remind our community of the importance of being vigilant as parents and neighbors.”
"The FBI worked closely with the Lafayette Parish Sheriff's Office to find this teen and bring her home safely," said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. "It is critical for parents and children to understand the dangers of communicating with strangers online. In this case, the family acted quickly and that helped us prevent what could have been a tragic outcome."
As alleged in court documents, this case arose from a parent reporting her 14-year-old daughter to have run away from home after the mother found her engaging in inappropriate communications with someone online claiming to be 18 years old. Shortly after taking her phone and grounding her, the parent realized her daughter to be gone. Law enforcement found that a rideshare transported the 14-year-old to the airport, and she boarded a flight for Norfolk, VA. Both the rideshare and airline flight were purchased by Perry. Perry ensured the minor victim would be able to board the flight without suspicion by providing a fictitious date of birth for her that falsely represented her to be old enough to travel unaccompanied.
Law enforcement secured video surveillance showing the minor to have flown from Lafayette to Virginia and to have been picked up by Perry, who was driving a vehicle registered to him. Law enforcement tracked Perry to a hotel where law enforcement found both Perry and the minor sharing a room with one bed. The minor later disclosed that Perry and she had sexual intercourse at the hotel.
This case is being investigated by the New Orleans and Norfolk Field Offices of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and Virginia Beach Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Sarver with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 26-mj-00116-01.
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U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller Highlights a Dozen Recent Child Exploitation Prosecutions Across the DistrictRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE – Today, United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller highlights a dozen recent prosecutions in the Western District of Louisiana involving serious child exploitation crimes. These cases span the entire District and include charges such as interstate transportation of minors to engage in illegal sexual activity, coercion and enticement of minors to produce child sexual abuse materials (“CSAM”), and the receipt, production, and distribution of CSAM as well.
“The defendants charged in these cases span not only our 42-parish District but also the spectrum of predators that require our vigilance as law enforcement and as parents: people in positions of trust like teachers and National Guardsmen, recidivist sex offenders, people using AI to generate child pornography using our children’s faces or preying upon children they meet on video game platforms, and people paying others to abuse children at their instruction or transporting them across state lines to abuse them. Our message in prosecuting these cases and highlighting them here is simple: we as Louisianans, as parents, and as families have had enough of this awful abuse and are committed to seeing those who perpetrate these acts brought to justice.” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We look forward to seeing justice done in these significant cases and to continuing our work alongside our federal and state partners to make our Louisiana community safe for our children.”
"Children should be able to trust adults and when that trust is shattered by predators, the FBI and our partner law enforcement agencies will work with prosecutors to see that justice is done," said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. "The FBI is committed to doing whatever it can to protect our most vulnerable victims."
“Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans remains steadfast in our mission to protect children from predators in our communities and online,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright of HSI New Orleans. “The scale and complexity of these crimes have increased, making teamwork essential. Partnerships with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation and other Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force partners are critical to identifying, investigating, and bringing offenders to justice, and ensuring survivors receive the support they need to heal.”
The following cases highlight ongoing efforts to protect children and hold offenders accountable in the Western District:
In the Lafayette area:
Christie Elizabeth Dunbar Oster, 38 of Broussard, was indicted for enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity. Oster, an eighth-grade teacher who was named Teacher of the Year in 2025, is charged with having maintained a sexual relationship with a minor victim during most of 2024. As alleged, Oster formed a sexual relationship with one of her eighth-grade students by meeting with her outside of school hours and using their cell phone communications not only to engage in sexual discussions but also to instruct the minor victim to do things like deleting text messages to avoid detection by the minor victim’s parents or others. Oster faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison if convicted. This matter is being investigated by FBI and is being prosecuted by United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills. The case number is No. 26-CR-00158.
- Luxe Arlen Thomas, 19 of Scott, was indicted for producing child pornography, interstate transportation of a minor to engage in sexual activity, and other CSAM-related crimes. Thomas, who was a U.S. National Guardsman, engaged in a monthslong pattern of abuse against a minor girl whom he understood to have intellectual disabilities and to be in the foster system, with Thomas traveling to another state to engage in sexually explicit conduct with her and then transporting her back to Louisiana to do the same, producing and possessing images of sexually explicit conduct as he did so. Thomas faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison if convicted. This matter is being investigated by HSI and Louisiana Bureau of Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon with assistance from Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard. The case number is 26-CR-00164.
Rickey James Hebert, 66 of Abbeville, was indicted for conspiracy to produce child pornography, attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, and receipt of child pornography. As alleged, Hebert was paying a Filipina woman to create live videos of minor children being sexually abused and otherwise engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Hebert faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life in prison. The case is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon. The case number is No. 6:26-CR-00151.
Scott Nicholas Martel, 36 of Basile, was indicted for receiving and possessing CSAM. As alleged, Martel falsely portrayed himself online as having access to minors by using online names such as “BaileyMomof2daughters” to secure CSAM from other users in internet-based chat rooms. A search of Martel’s phone in February 2026 revealed a trove of CSAM he received in this way, as well as AI-generated pornographic materials involving Martel’s use of pictures available online of minor children living in his area. Martel faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The FBI is investigating this case, and it is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott Cassidy with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon. The case number is 26-CR-00095.
Michael Roy Williams, 61 of Opelousas, was indicted in two separate cases, one charging him for possessing an explosive device and the other for possessing CSAM. These cases arose from St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives receiving information indicating that Williams possessed child pornography. After they obtained a search warrant for Williams’ smartphone, detectives then learned that Williams possessed an explosive device, which they recovered from his residence after securing another search warrant. Williams faces up to 10 years in prison for each charge. These matters are being investigated by the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the St. Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, and are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills. The case numbers are 26-CR-00152 and 26-CR-00153.
Donald W. Bergeron, 42 of Broussard, was indicted on Distribution of Child Pornography, Receipt of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography. As alleged, Bergeron, who has a prior conviction for incest with a child, used social media messaging applications and cloud-based file storage services to send, receive, and save images of CSAM. Bergeron faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison if convicted. The case is being investigated by the FBI and Louisiana Bureau of Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney E. Ashley Hammons with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon. The case number is 26-CR-00154.
Cody Allen Bell, 34 of Carencro, was indicted for receiving and possessing CSAM. The investigation stems from a tip provided to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) by an encrypted messaged application, with the tip advising that someone attempted to upload CSAM to the messaging application. NCMEC forwarded the tip to the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations for further investigation, and detectives identified Bell as the individual utilizing the messaging application. Detectives executed search warrants on Bell’s account as well as a cloud-based storage account that he utilized and his cellular telephone and located CSAM in all locations. Bell faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison if convicted. This matter is being investigated by the FBI and Louisiana Bureau of Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren S. Sarver with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills. The case number is 26-CR-00160.
In the Lake Charles area:
Victor Gomes, 25 of Texas, was charged with attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity after traveling from Texas to meet a minor girl at a Lake Charles-area park to transport her back to Texas to engage in sexual activity. As it would turn out, Gomes had been communicating with an undercover FBI agent, and after he was caught in an FBI sting operation trying to meet a minor girl in Lake Charles, planning to transport her back to Texas. If convicted, Gomes faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life. This matter is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Sarver with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills. The case number is 26-CR-00108.
Oscar Rodriguez, 38 of Lake Charles, involved Rodriguez attempting to meet a 14-year-old girl at a Lake Charles-area hotel to engage in sexual activity only to find that it was an undercover operation. Rodriguez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life if convicted. This matter is being investigated by FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon II with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle. The case number is 26-CR-00103.
In the Shreveport area:
Darryl Hawkins, 43 of Shreveport, was indicted for attempting to coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity. As alleged, Hawkins communicated via social media platform with an undercover FBI agent posing as a 14-year-old girl, ultimately traveling to a local park in the Shreveport area to meet the purported minor after engaging in sexual discussions online. Hawkins faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison if convicted. This matter is being investigated by the FBI and Shreveport Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Stephanie Stewart. The case number is 26-CR-00133.
Joshua Bixby, 22 of Shreveport, was indicted for producing child pornography. The indictment stems from a complaint by a minor female alleging that Bixby solicited her to produce and send sexually explicit images via a social media platform, with an FBI investigation identifying additional victims, ages 12-16 whom Bixby solicited on the same platform. If convicted, Bixby faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to 30 years in federal prison. This matter is being investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell with the assistance from Paralegal Specialist Stephanie Stewart. The case number is 26-CR-00134.
In the Monroe area:
Ronnie Carlton Rogers, 41 of California, was indicted for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. Rogers, who was previously convicted of child sexual abuse, is alleged to have targeted a minor girl under the age of 12 in northeast Louisiana through a video game, meeting the girl and engaging in sexual discussions while instructing her to expose herself to him. Rogers faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison if convicted. The case is being investigated by the Monroe, Louisiana and San Francisco, California offices of the FBI, West Monroe Police Department, Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office and the California State Probation Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Gaskins with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot. The case number is 26-CR-00149.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
These investigations are a part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat child sexual exploitation and abuse. Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under each case’s respective case number.
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Western District of Louisiana
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Former Youngsville Resident Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Child Sex OffensesRead the Press Release
LAFAYETTE– On April 21, 2026, Nicholas J. Miller, a 45-year-old Youngsville resident, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, to be followed by 15 years of supervised release, after his January 2026 conviction for distribution of child sexual abuse materials (“CSAM”).
Evidence presented in court showed that in July 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) received information that Miller had shared CSAM with Brad William Blanchard, another pedophile and former resident of Abbeville who was prosecuted separately in this District and sentenced in November 2025 to 150 months in prison. The FBI opened an investigation and confirmed that Miller had distributed CSAM to Blanchard. When arrested, Miller admitted that he had created social media accounts and enticed minors to provide him with sexual abuse material and that he had captured CSAM on hidden cameras, with Miller distributing the CSAM to Blanchard.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The FBI investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-CR-00258.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
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