Eastern District of Louisiana

 NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that WILMER ANTONIO GARCIA-AQUINO (“GARCIA-AQUINO”),age 43, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced on August 21, 2025, for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections1326(a) and 1326(b)(1).

GARCIA-AQUINO was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk to 3 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release upon release from imprisonment, and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. At the completion of his imprisonment, he will be surrendered to the custody of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings consistent with the Immigration and Nationality Act.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Bureau of Customs and Border Protection investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, JORGE LUIS VILLANUEVA (“VILLANUEVA”), age 35, was sentenced on August 14, 2025, by United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier, after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) and Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(b)(1).

VILLANUEVA was sentenced to time served, one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to the bill of information, VILLANUEVA, reentered the United States after being previously deported on September 11, 2013.

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).

Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that PEDRO TAILOR CASTILLO-BONILLA (“CASTILLO”), age 43, plead guilty on August 20, 2025, to illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the charging document, CASTILLO was found in the United States on June 18, 2025, having reentered the United States, without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on August 15, 2012.

CASTILLO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, followed by up to one (1) year of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

CASTILLO’s sentencing is set for November 19, 2025, before United States District Judge Lance M. Africk.

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).

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Coast Guard and the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this case. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that TREVIS WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”),age 46, pleaded guilty today for violating the Federal Gun Control Act. 

According to court documents, on March 16, 2025, a Transportation Security Administration (TSA) agent conducting security screening at Louis Armstrong International Airport noticed what appeared to be a firearm and nine (9) rounds of ammunition in the carry-on bag of the defendant. The TSA agent then notified the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). An FBI Special Agent conducted an investigation and determined that WILLIAMS was prohibited from possessing the firearm and ammunition, as he had previously been convicted of a felony in the 24th Judicial District Court, Parish of Jefferson, State of Louisiana.

The firearm was determined to be a Glock Model 30, .45 caliber, semi-automatic pistol, along with the nine (9) rounds of ammunition, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). WILLIAMS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for December 16, 2025.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Transportation Security Administration, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ANACLETO SILVA-HERRERA (“SILVA-HERRERA”), age 40, a resident of Houston, Texas, was sentenced by United States District Judge, Jane Triche Milazzo, on August 20, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to two counts of conspiracy to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and possession, with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine. SILVA-HERRERA was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment, one year of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, SILVA-HERRERA, and other co-conspirators, distributed, and possessed with intent to distribute, multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine within the Eastern District of Louisiana.  SILVA-HERRERA transported kilogram quantities of cocaine, and proceeds from the sale of narcotics, on behalf of a co-conspirator, a known Mexico-based source of supply.

This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office, and assisted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Border Patrol, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, the Kenner Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – PEDRO NOLOCOS ROSALES (“ROSALES”), age 64, a native of Honduras, pled guilty on August 19, 2025, to a three-count indictment for making a false statement in a passport application, aggravated identity theft, and theft of government funds announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, ROSALES applied for a United States passport and falsely used the social security number (“SSN”) and name of another person for over 20 years. ROSALES, using this SSN, also applied for Social Security Administration (“SSA”) Disability Insurance Benefits, and converted to his use, money belonging to the United States and the SSA. Approximately $186,078.60 in U.S. Government funds were released to him by the SSA from April 2003 through August 2023 as a result of ROSALES’s fraud.

ROSALES faces up to ten years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000 as to Count 1; a mandatory consecutive two years imprisonment as to Count 2; and up to ten years imprisonment and a maximum fine of $250,000 as to Count 3. Upon release from incarceration ROSALES may be sentenced to a supervised release period of up to one year on Count Two, and up to three years on Counts One and Three. ROSALES also agreed to pay $186,078.60 in restitution. He also faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee as to each count.

The case was investigated by the U.S Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security, the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that, LATIJERIA MARTIN (“MARTIN”), age 38, of Tangipahoa Parish, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Greg Guidry on August 12, 2025, to conspiracy to launder monetary funds. Judge Guidry scheduled sentencing for December 9, 2025. At sentencing, MARTIN faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $500,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, in 2022, the Drug Enforcement Administration began a drug trafficking investigation into MARTIN’S boyfriend, Dequarius Hamler. Law enforcement officials suspected Hamler was having MARTIN deposit his illegal drug trafficking proceeds into a local bank to launder this drug money as legitimate funds. Bank records and financial documents showed that from January 1, 2021, through September 9, 2023, MARTIN and Hamler made numerous cash deposits totaling $454,589.10 through seven different bank accounts. MARTIN’S deposits to and from bank accounts under her name totaled $328,159.10, while deposits to and from back accounts under Hamler’s name totaled $126,430. MARTIN would make these bank deposits and withdrawals at the direction and instruction of Hamler, whom MARTIN knew was a drug dealer whose drug activities were the source of these funds. Employees at these banks confirmed MARTIN visited the bank often, sometimes multiple times a day, to make cash deposits and withdrawals. Frequently, the cash MARTIN deposited had the strong odor and residue of marijuana. A bank employee informed MARTIN the deposit and withdrawal actions amounted to criminal structuring and money laundering, and that the bank would no longer allow MARTIN to make these deposits. MARTIN relayed this information to Hamler, but despite this warning, Hamler continued to instruct MARTIN to continue concealing his drug proceeds through their bank accounts. 

This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced the August 28, 2025 indictment of six individuals for a bribery scheme that enabled drivers to obtain a commercial driver’s license (“CDL”) without undergoing any of the legally required training or testing. The indictment alleges that a local restaurant owner, MAHMOUD ALHATTAB (“ALHATTAB”), in exchange for payments from CDL applicants, bypassed each of the three main federally-mandated steps of the CDL qualification process—knowledge testing, entry-level driver training, and skills testing.

The knowledge test is a written test that must be passed at an Office of Motor Vehicles (“OMV”) office, and includes questions on vehicle safety systems, emergency situations, procedures for various maneuvers, and extreme driving conditions. Entry-level driver training is required for most CDL applicants and includes demonstrating proficiency while operating a commercial vehicle on a public road. The skills test, which is administered by state-authorized examiners, requires performing a proper pre-trip inspection, basic vehicle control skills, and safety-related maneuvers.

To defeat the knowledge test requirement, ALHATTAB allegedly bribed two employees of a Donaldsonville, La. OMV office. These two employees, JENAY DAVIS (“DAVIS”) and SHAKIRA MILLIEN (“MILLIEN”), are accused of completing knowledge tests for applicants in exchange for payments from ALHATTAB. The indictment alleges that DAVIS and MILLIEN, when taking the applicants’ tests, performed internet searches to find the answers.

To defeat the training requirement, ALHATTAB allegedly bribed two men who operated truck driver training businesses. These two business operators, CHRISTOPHER BRYAN BURNS (“BURNS”) and JONATHAN PARSONS (“PARSONS”) are accused of reporting in a federal database that the applicants successfully completed training when, in truth, the applicants did not train.

To defeat the skills test requirement, ALHATTAB allegedly bribed BURNS and PARSONS, who, in addition to being trainers, were certified to administer the skills test. BURNS and PARSONS are accused of falsely reporting to the State of Louisiana that applicants had passed the skills test when, in truth, the applicants did not take the test. Additionally, according to the indictment, on some occasions, PARSONS paid another skills test examiner to assist in the scheme. That examiner, MARLINE ROBERTS (“ROBERTS”), is accused of creating phony score sheets to corroborate the false test reports.

All six defendants are jointly charged with one count of conspiracy to commit honest services wire fraud. ALHATTAB and PARSONS are each charged with two counts of honest services wire fraud. BURNS, DAVIS, and ROBERTS are each charged with one count of honest services wire fraud. ALHATTAB, MILLIEN, and PARSONS are each charged with four counts of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. BURNS, DAVIS, and ROBERTS are each charged with one count of bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds.

The conspiracy and wire fraud counts are each punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment. The bribery counts are each punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment. Each count may also be punishable by a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years’ supervised release following imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge, and that each defendant’s guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Transportation – Office of Inspector General investigated this case.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson thanked the Louisiana State Office of Inspector General and Louisiana Public Safety Services for their valuable assistance in the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on August 7, 2025, YUAN BUGGAGE ("BUGGAGE), age 25, of New Orleans, and ALGERNON JACQUES ("JACQUES"), age 25, also of New Orleans, were charged in a recently unsealed six-count indictment with violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts.

BUGGAGE and JACQUES are charged in Count 1 with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, Tapentadol and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846.  BUGGAGE and JACQUES are charged in Count 2 with possession with intent to distribute those substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D). In Count 3, BUGGAGE and JACQUES are charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  In Count 4, BUGGAGE is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to  court documents, beginning no later than March 31, 2025, and continuing to on or about April 24, 2025, BUGGAGE, and JACQUES,  conspired, with others  to distribute, and to possess with the intent to distribute, a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of Tapentadol, a Schedule II controlled substance, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana, a Schedule I controlled substance. BUGGAGE, and JACQUES also knowingly possessed firearms, a Glock Model 23 Gen 5, .40 caliber pistol, a Glock Model 43X, nine-millimeter pistol, and a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber pistol, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

For the felon in possession count, on or about April, 24, 2025, BUGGAGE, knowing he had a previous felony conviction, illegally, possessed firearms, a Glock Model 23 Gen 5, .40 caliber pistol; a Glock Model 43X, nine-millimeter pistol; and a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber pistol .

As to the drug trafficking conspiracy charge in Count 1, BUGGAGE and JACQUES face up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to the drug distribution charge in Count 2, BUGGAGE and JACQUES face up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to the charge of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in Count 3, BUGGAGE and JACQUES face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. As to the felon in possession charge in Count 4, BUGGAGE faces up to 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New Orleans Police Department, and St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – WILLIAM ROBINSON (“ROBINSON”), age 40, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on August 26, 2025, before United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court records, ROBINSON pled guilty to Count Two of a seven-count superseding indictment. Count Two charged ROBINSON with being a felon in possession of ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). A New Orleans Police Department investigation developed ROBINSON, and his co-defendant, as suspects in a January 2022 French Quarter shooting. The shooting was captured on video surveillance and NOPD determined that ROBINSON, wearing an LA Dodgers World Series jacket at the time, was the actual shooter. NOPD recovered several various nine-millimeter spent shell casings from the shooting scene. In February 2022, NOPD executed a search warrant at a home where ROBINSON and his co-defendant stayed, and found the LA Dodgers World Series jacket matching the one ROBINSON was wearing in the video from the January 2022 shooting. Certified criminal records confirm that ROBINSON was a convicted felon when he possessed the ammunition he fired in January 2022.

Judge Brown set sentencing for December 4, 2025. ROBINSON faces a maximum term of ten years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crime Unit, and Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS –  Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that COLE DIGGS (a/k/a Kevon Godson) (“DIGGS”), age 31, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 28, 2025 before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to producing files depicting the sexual exploitation of children, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 2251(a).

According to court documents, on numerous instances between November 2021 and December 2022, DIGGS engaged in a scheme to obtain sexually explicit depictions of at least six minors he met via a multimedia instant messaging application that allows users to exchange pictures and videos. The identified victims varied between the ages of seven years old and fifteen years old.  In each case, DIGGS sought, and obtained, the sexually explicit depictions of minors by utilizing a “sextortion” scheme. To implement this scheme, DIGGS claimed to be a minor, sent sexually explicit depictions of adults, engaged in sexually charged communications to these minor victims, directed the minors on how to pose and perform when taking sexually explicit depictions, and, after the minors expressed reluctance to continue sending sexually explicit depictions, DIGGS used extortionate tactics to compel the minors to comply with his demands. Additionally, DIGGS, on multiple occasions, offered to purchase, and did in fact purchase, offered to trade, and did in fact trade, sexually explicit depictions of minors, including some of those he received via his extortionate scheme.

DIGGS faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, up to a maximum of thirty (30) years.  DIGGS also faces at least five (5) years, and up to a lifetime, of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. DIGGS may also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing before Judge Ashe has been scheduled for December 4, 2025.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOSE GUADALUPE MUNOZ-PEREZ (“MUNOZ”), age 46, a native of Mexico, was sentenced by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter on August 12, 2025 after previously pleading guilty to illegally using a social security number to obtain a Louisiana driver’s license, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

MUNOZ was sentenced to time served. Judge Vitter also sentenced him to one year of supervised release and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  

According to court documents, on July 24, 2020, MUNOZ applied for the renewal of a Louisiana driver’s license using the name and Social Security number of a real person, at a Public Tag Agency in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. A Public Tag Agency is an authorized entity that handles various vehicle-related transactions on behalf of the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles.

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).

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that BRYAN JAVIER PEREZ-ESPINOZA (“PEREZ-ESPINOZA”), age 33, a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty on August 13, 2025, for reentry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) (Count 1), and for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(5)(A) and 924(a)(8) (Count 2).

According to court documents, PEREZ-ESPINOZA, an illegal alien, was found in Orleans Parish on March 23, 2024. He had previously been removed to Honduras on September 30, 2022.

For Count One, PEREZ-ESPINOZA faces a maximum penalty of 2 years of imprisonment, up to 1 year of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. As to Count Two, the maximum penalty is 15 years of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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).

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that WILIAN SERRANO-MOREIRA (“SERRANO”), age 34, pleaded guilty on August 26, 2025 to illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a). His sentencing is set for October 9, 2025, before United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown.

According to the charging document, SERRANO was found in the United States on April 15, 2023, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States after being previously deported on July 17, 2019. He faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, followed by up to one (1) year of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  

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).

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that United States District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced DERY JONCARLOS ZELAYA-ZELAYA a/k/a “DERY ZELAYA,” (“ZELAYA-ZELAYA”), age 27, on August 26, 2025, to twelve (12) months imprisonment in federal prison after having previously pled guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a). The Court also sentenced ZELAYA-ZELAYA to one (1) year of supervised release upon his release from prison and ordered him to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment cost.

According to court documents, ZELAYA-ZELAYA, a citizen of Honduras, was previously removed from the United States on May 13, 2022 and December 4, 2019, respectively and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement Removal Operations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that KENNETH LAWSON (“LAWSON”), age 39, a resident of New Orleans, and AREION BANKS (“BANKS”), age 33, a resident of Slidell, were indicted on August 28, 2025 for conspiracy to commit theft and bribery concerning a program receiving federal funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371, 666(a)(1)(A), and 666(a)(1)(B).

According to the indictment, LAWSON was employed by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) as Grants Manager in OPSO’s Grants Department between about August 2022 and November 29, 2024. In that capacity, LAWSON possessed the ability to request grant payments from grant originators and to issue checks from OPSO to companies acting as subgrantees under grants received by OPSO. LAWSON met BANKS in about March 2024. Shortly thereafter, LAWSON and BANKS devised a scheme in which LAWSON would exploit his position at OPSO to steal checks made out to subgrantees and cause them to be deposited into the financial accounts under the custody or control of LAWSON or BANKS. Thereafter, BANKS would pay bribes to LAWSON in the form of a portion of the resulting cash. On one such occasion, on or about August 12, 2024, BANKS paid LAWSON a bribe in the amount of approximately $5,900. This bribe stemmed from LAWSON’s successful diversion of approximately $15,000 from OPSO, without authorization, by exploiting LAWSON’s position with OPSO.

Additionally, in about July 30, 2024, LAWSON incorporated an entity entitled “Williams James Assoc. LLC.” (“Williams James”) with the State of Louisiana, and thereafter controlled and served as the registered agent and managing member for that entity. On the same day, LAWSON opened a business checking account at a financial institution based in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana. in the name of Williams James. Despite Williams James not having any relationship with, or providing services to, or on behalf of OPSO, LAWSON in his professional capacity with OPSO, engaged in a digital transaction requesting that the United States Department of Justice (DOJ) draw down a portion of a $3.907 million grant DOJ had previously awarded to OPSO. Specifically, he directed DOJ to send $100,000 of the grant funds to the Williams James financial account, without the knowledge or authorization of his supervisors. To make the transaction appear legitimate, LAWSON and BANKS agreed that BANKS, in exchange for a portion of the ill-gotten proceeds, would contact the financial institution and pose falsely as an OPSO employee who approved the transaction. LAWSON then sent detailed instructions on what to say to BANKS. BANKS then contacted the financial institution, falsely claimed to be an OPSO employee, and told a financial institution representative that OPSO approved the transaction. In fact, OPSO was unaware of, and had not approved, the transaction.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted, LAWSON and BANKS each face up to five years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson also expressed appreciation for the support provided by the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JAYLON CARTER (“CARTER”), age 24, a resident of Covington, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Susie Morgan to sixty-three (63) months’ imprisonment, three (3) years of supervised release, and $300.00 in mandatory special assessment fees, after previously pleading guilty to three counts of distribution of forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, in January 2024, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office received information that CARTER sold “M30 blue pills” out of an apartment complex in Covington or from his vehicle. After St. Tammany detectives confirmed that CARTER lived in the apartment complex, the detectives used an individual CARTER believed to be a legitimate buyer, to make three controlled purchases of fentanyl pills from CARTER at the apartment complex.

This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that DEANTHONY BLOCKER (“ BLOCKER”), a California resident, pled guilty on August 27, 2025, to a two-count indictment for conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and interstate transportation of stolen goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2314.

According to the indictment, BLOCKER, and others, conspired to transport cigarettes that had been stolen during a burglary at a Louisiana warehouse facility on November 21, 2024. This group then traveled out of state before being apprehended in Fort Stockton, Texas the following day while still in possession of the cigarettes. The group was further implicated in similar burglaries in North Carolina and Texas in February of 2024.

As to Count 1, BLOCKER faces up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. As to Count 2, BLOCKER faces up to 10 years of imprisonment, up to 3 years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Knightdale Police Department, Atlanta Police Department, Rockmart Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Fort Stockton Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that DANIEL CHIMA INWEREGBU(“INWEREGBU”), age 40, a citizen of Lagos, Nigeria, pled guilty on August 21, 2025 before United States District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown to two of the counts pending against him, including conspiracy to commit mail fraud, wire fraud, and using an assumed name to commit a mail fraud scheme, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1341, 1342, 1343 and 1349 (Count 1), and conspiracy to commit money laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1956(a)(1)(B)(i), 1957, and 1956(h) (Count 12). INWEREGBU’s plea stemmed from his role in a lengthy romance scam targeting American citizens.

According to court documents, a “romance scam” was a confidence scheme in which the perpetrator feigned romantic intentions towards a victim, gained their affection, and used the victim’s goodwill to commit fraud. These fraudulent acts might  involve such acts as obtaining access to the victim’s money, bank accounts, credit cards, passports, e-mail accounts, or national identification numbers; convincing the victim to transmit things of value to the perpetrator or his witting or unwitting co-conspirators; or inducing the victim to, unintentionally, commit or participate in the commission of financial fraud against third parties on behalf of the perpetrator.

Between at least July 1, 2017, and December 16, 2018, INWEREGBU, and his co-conspirators, devised and operated a “romance scam” whereby they sought to obtain money and property from multiple American women, including 4 victims, by means of false and fraudulent representations and promises. Specifically, INWEREGBU and his co-conspirators created profiles on social media and online dating sites using the alias “Larry Pham,” purportedly a middle-aged male, to attract middle-aged female victims.

The co-conspirators, including INWEREGBU, used online messaging platforms and email, to contact victims, introduce themselves, and appeal to victims’ longing for companionship. If the victim responded favorably, INWEREGBU and his co-conspirators began to cultivate a romantic relationship that emotionally attached the victims to “Larry Pham.”  Once the relationship was established, the defendant and his co-conspirators, posing as Larry Pham, requested victims send them money under various scams and ruses to domestic bank accounts they opened and managed. INWEREGBU’s scheme resulted in actual and intended losses to the victims of over $405,000. Thereafter, INWEREGBU and his co-conspirators laundered the funds, by conducting financial transactions using the proceeds of their wire and mail fraud scheme, designed in whole or in part to conceal and disguise the nature, location, source, ownership, and control of the proceeds, by directing the victims’ funds through intermediaries.

INWEREGBU faces up to twenty years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a fine of $250,000 as to Count 1. He faces up to twenty years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a fine of $500,000 as to Count 12. He also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count. Sentencing before Judge Brown has been scheduled for December 4, 2025.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter and expressed appreciation for the great support provided by United States Department of Justice Office of International Affairs and the United States Department of State. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ELVIN MEJIA-GUZMAN (“MEJIA”), age 36, was sentenced by United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

MEJIA was sentenced to time served. Judge Fallon also sentenced MEJIA to one year of supervised release and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the charging document, MEJIA was found in the United States on March 26, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on June 21, 2010.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, Kenner Police Department and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that KENNETH RICHMOND (“RICHMOND”), age 65, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 14, 2025, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349, and aggravated identity theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028A.

According to court documents, in 2022, RICHMOND, and his daughter Kendra Walker (“Walker”), conspired to use fake and stolen personal identifying information to make fraudulent vehicle purchases from a local car dealership. The vehicle purchases were financed through a bank, and several of the loans went into default. This fraud caused a loss of approximately $124,031.41 to the dealership. As part of this scheme, RICHMOND knowingly used a real person’s name, date of birth, and Social Security Number, without permission, to purchase a Dodge Challenger in July of 2022. 

The Honorable United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe sentenced RICHMOND to serve four (4) years of imprisonment, followed by three (3) years of supervised release. Judge Ashe also ordered that RICHMOND pay restitution to the victim in the amount of $58,852.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $200. 

At the time that RICHMOND committed this scheme, he was on federal supervised release for a prior fraud conviction.  On August 13, 2025, United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance revoked RICHMOND’s term of supervised release and sentenced him to two years in prison.  RICHMOND has been ordered to serve his two terms of imprisonment consecutively, for a total of six years.

The Honorable Barry W. Ashe set the sentencing for RICHMOND’s codefendant, Kendra Walker, for September 25, 2025.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the work of the United States Secret Service, St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana Department of Public Safety. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – AVERY FREEL (“FREEL”), age 23, of Ocean Springs, MS, was sentenced on August 21, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, after previously pleading guilty to the Attempted Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. 

According to court documents, the case against FREEL stemmed from an online investigation by a U.S. Department of Homeland Security (“HSI”) special agent. On July 19, 2023, within the Eastern District of Louisiana, FREEL was contacted by an individual on an online messaging application. The individual told FREEL that she was 14 years old. FREEL disclosed to the individual, he believed to be a minor, that he was 21 years old and lived in Ocean Springs, MS. FREEL suggested the two of them communicate via another online messaging application. The individual he believed to be a minor received a friend request from FREEL. FREEL and the individual he believed to be a minor communicated on the online messaging application for several days. In their communications on July 25-26, 2023, FREEL asked the individual, he believed to be a minor, to take sexually explicit images of herself and send them to FREEL. On July 27, 2023, FREEL traveled from Ocean Springs, MS to Hammond, LA where he was arrested by HSI special agents.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon sentenced FREEL to sixty (60) months in the Bureau of Prisons, followed by (8) eight years of supervised release, a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee, and a requirement to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Hammond Police Department, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JELISSA LACOUR (“LACOUR”), age 36, a resident of Jefferson Parish, pleaded guilty on August 14, 2025 before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to two counts of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, LACOUR admitted that she obtained numerous Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans using falsified tax forms, and that she fraudulently obtained Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funds in the names of numerous purported renters. In some instances, the PPP and ERAP applications were for her accomplices who sought to benefit from the fraudulent applications, while in other instances, LACOUR misused others’ identities to obtain payments in their names.

At sentencing, LACOUR faces up to 20 years of imprisonment, to be followed by up to three years of supervised release for each wire fraud count, and two years of imprisonment, to be followed by up to one year of supervised release, for each aggravated identity theft count. Each count is punishable by a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chandra Menon of the of the Public Integrity Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JULES GIBSON (“GIBSON”), age 40, formerly a resident of Gonzales, Louisiana, was sentenced to 120 months on August 12, 2025, before United States District Judge Susie Morgan after previously pled guilty to Conspiracy to Possess, with Intent to Distribute, and Distribute Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, 846; and Felon in Possession of a Firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). He was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment on each charge. Judge Morgan ordered the sentences to run concurrently. He was also ordered to serve an eight-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison.

Documents filed in court reflect that a co-defendant, who also pled guilty, was arrested by Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) deputies. The deputies recovered, from his pick-up truck, several clear plastic bags containing cocaine and crack cocaine, a black digital scale, a Black Taurus PT 24/7 PRO Handgun and his cell phone. This cell phone was examined by JPSO experts, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives agents. It revealed a significant amount of text messages, photographs and other information documenting his trafficking activities over an extended period of time, including the retail drug traffickers, such as GIBSON, that he was supplying. The records revealed both purchases and payments by GIBSON. GIBSON was later arrested by JPSO patrol officers in possession of a fully loaded Taurus PT140 PRO, .40 caliber pistol.

GIBSON had previously been convicted of a serious drug felony and was, therefore, subject to increased penalties

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is assigned the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TERRY BAHAM, JR. (“BAHAM”), age 37, a resident of St. Bernard Parish, pled guilty on August 12, 2025 before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long to possession with intent to distribute forty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and quantities of mixtures and substances containing detectable amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D), and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, in October 2021, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s deputies received information regarding the drug trafficking activities of BAHAM at his residence in Chalmette, Louisiana. Deputies obtained a search warrant for the residence. Inside the residence, deputies located and seized approximately 112 grams of fentanyl, 74 grams of cocaine, 14 grams of methamphetamine, 405 grams of marijuana and 112 THC cartridges. Also seized from the residence were four firearms: a Beretta Model BU9 Nano, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, a Glock Model 27, 40 caliber. semi-automatic pistol, a Zastava Arms Model PAP M85 NP, .223 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Sharps Bros. Model Warthog, .223 caliber rifle.

For the drug count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For the firearm count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ELIJAH MARTIN (“MARTIN”), age 27, a resident of New Orleans, plead guilty on August 21, 2025, to violating the Federal Gun Control Act before United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown.

MARTIN plead guilty to two counts of possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). On each count MARTIN faces a up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on December 16, 2023, an officer with the East Jefferson Parish Levee Police Department found MARTIN, a convicted felon, in possession of a firearm, a Smith & Wesson Model M&P Shield, 9mm pistol, during a traffic stop. On January 25, 2024, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers, again found MARTIN in possession of a firearm, a Glock Model 26, 9mm. MARTIN is prohibited from possessing a firearm dur to his prior felony convictions.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

This case was investigated by the East Jefferson Parish Levee Police Department, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS – ALTON TUMBLIN (“TUMBLIN”), age 44, of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 20, 2025, to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

Specifically, TUMBLIN pled guilty to Counts 1 through 4 of the indictment pending against him. Counts 1, 3, and 4 each charge TUMBLIN with distributing fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). Count 2 charges TUMBLIN with distributing a quantity of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

As to Counts 1, 3, and 4, TUMBLIN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. As to Count 2, TUMBLIN faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, on three separate occasions, including August 7, 2023, August 9, 2023, and August 16, 2023, TUMBLIN distributed over 50 grams of methamphetamine during controlled purchases to individuals TUMBLIN thought were individual buyers. Also, on August 7, 2023, TUMBLIN distributed a quantity of fentanyl to an undercover agent.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

This case was part of Operation Big Easy Operation Big Easy was a National Integrated Ballistics Information Network (NIBIN) enforcement initiative of collected firearm casings for the time period of August 1, 2023, to January 31, 2023, that produced data points of high-density shootings and homicides in seven areas of New Orleans related to individuals engaged in criminal activity.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. This case is being prosecuted by Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –RYAN JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 22, pleaded guilty on August 13, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance, to conspiracy to possess firearms, in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o); possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, tramadol, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 841(b)(2); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

According to court documents, on September 1, 2023, JOHNSON was arrested driving a stolen car in Joe Brown Park in New Orleans. After he was ordered out of the car, New Orleans Police Department officers recovered a Glock Model 23 firearm underneath his seat and marijuana and tapentadol in the car. JOHNSON was released on bond following his arrest and resumed selling marijuana and tapentadol. In March of 2024 JOHNSON was observed driving another stolen car. On March 28, 2024, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at JOHNSON’s residence. They recovered firearms belonging to JOHNSON, and a co-defendant. They also recovered JOHNSON’s backpack, that contained marijuana, tapentadol, a face mask, gloves, and burglary tools.    

As to his convictions for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, JOHNSON faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to his firearms conspiracy conviction, he faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. As to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to any other count, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ENRIQUE TORRES-BEIZA, a/k/a “Enrique B. Torres,” age 40, a native of Mexico, was sentenced on August 14, 2025, for reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. He was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment, one-year of supervised release and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, ENRIQUE TORRES-BEIZA, a/k/a “Enrique B. Torres,” (“TORRES-BEIZA”)reentered the United States after being previously deported on December 26, 2018. On or about October 26, 2024, TORRES-BEIZA was found to be unlawfully present in the United States while being housed in the Terrebonne Parish Jail, Terrebonne, Louisiana, and serving his sentence for a second offense, driving under the influence, conviction.

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).

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FRAILYN ARGUETA-JERONIMO, a/k/a “Frailyn Argeta-Jeronimo,” (“ARGUETA-JERONIMO “), age 25, a native of Guatemala, pled guilty on August 12, 2025, to reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. His sentencing is set for November 12, 2025, before Judge Zainey.

According to the charging document, ARGUETA-JERONIMO was found in the United States on March 27, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on February 6, 2020. On March 27, 2025, federal agents were performing targeted enforcement operations in Terrytown, Louisiana, and observed a maroon Toyota Tundra arrive at a Terrytown residence and pick up a Hispanic male. The Toyota Tundra was registered to a Guatemalan national who had been removed from the United States on at least three prior occasions. Based on the prior intelligence gathered on the residence, when a federal agent conducted a vehicle stop on the Toyota Tundra, a passenger, later identified as ARGUETA-JERONIMO, a Guatemalan citizen, admitted to being in the country illegally.

ARGUETA-JERONIMO faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

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).

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that AMANDA CANGELOSI (“CANGELOSI”), age 39, was indicted on August 22, 2025, for conspiracy to make and pass counterfeit United States currency, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and passing counterfeit one hundred dollar bills, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 472.

According to the indictment, CANGELOSI, conspired with others to manufacture counterfeit one hundred dollar bills and used the counterfeit bills to pay for goods and services. CANGELOSI and her co-conspirators used genuine $1 bills to create the counterfeit $100 bills all to deceive merchants into believing the currency was a genuine $100 bill. CANGELOSI is charged with knowingly passing three counterfeit $100 bills to pay for a hotel stay at a hotel in Metairie, LA.  If convicted of conspiracy, CANGELOSI faces up to five years’ imprisonment and up to 20 years’ imprisonment if convicted of passing counterfeit currency. If convicted of both counts, she also faces, up to a $500,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $200 special assessment fee. CANGELOSI also may be ordered to pay restitution.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the United States Secret Service and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KENNETH JACKSON (“JACKSON”), age 33, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on August 20, 2025, before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, to violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court records, in March 2024, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted aerial surveillance at an apartment complex in New Orleans East and observed a Toyota Camry with damage to the rear bumper parked behind the complex. The aerial surveillance was being conducted as part of an investigation into a murder that had occurred the previous day, and agents believed the Camry to be the same one used in the murder. FBI agents who were watching the apartment complex saw the Camry begin to circle around the side of the complex to leave. An agent blocked the Camry’s exit with his vehicle, which caused the occupants, JACKSON and another male, to abandon the Camry and flee on foot. Both were apprehended by law enforcement shortly after exiting the vehicle. JACKSON had a .45 caliber pistol on his person. JACKSON is a convicted felon who is prohibited from possessing firearms. JACKSON was charged, in a multi-defendant indictment, with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Judge Milazzo set sentencing for January 30, 2026. JACKSON faces a maximum term of fifteen years imprisonment, up to three years supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and the New Orleans District Attorney’s Office. The case is being prosecuted out of the Violent Crime Unit by Assistant United States Attorneys Liz Privitera and Sarah Dawkins.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RASHUAD FONTENBERRY (“FONTENBERRY”), age 33, formerly a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 19, 2025 before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long to Carjacking, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. Section 2119.   FONTENBERRY faces a term of imprisonment of up to 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release following his release from imprisonment, and payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

Judge Long ordered a pre-sentence report and scheduled sentencing for December 2, 2025.

Court documents showed that on September 5, 2022, the victim of the offense stopped at a local gas station to buy snacks. She parked her car next to the fuel pumps and exited the vehicle. FONTENBERRY quickly approached the victim who was then stopped by a second male perpetrator. As they ordered the victim to surrender her belongings, she noticed FONTENBERRY’s hand resting near, or on, a firearm. The victim then handed them her keys and cell phone, following which FONTENBERRY and his accomplice entered her car. FONTENBERRY sat in the driver’s seat. When the gas station store customers walked out to see what was happening, FONTENBERRY and his accomplice fled on foot but were later identified by police.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is handling the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that Walter Omar Casco-Lopez (“Casco-Lopez”), age 36, a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty on August 19, 2025, to illegal reentry of a removed alien, a violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, Casco-Lopez, an illegal alien, was found in Orleans Parish on November 4, 2019. He had previously been removed to Honduras on or about October 12, 2011.

The defendant faces a maximum penalty of two (2) years of incarceration, followed by up to one (1) year of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that, on August 14, 2025, CHASE DUNCAN CAMPBELL (“CAMPBELL”), a resident of Cobb County, Georgia, pled guilty before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe, to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.

According to court documents, from as early as November 2020, and continuing through at least May 2024, CAMPBELL, and others, conspired to: defraud Candidate 1 with fake campaign services; defraud Victim 1 out of approximately $236,867 in fake real estate purchases and associated costs; defraud Victim 2 out of approximately $83,268.05 in fraudulent claims of real estate and title work; and defraud Victims 3 and 4 out of approximately $112,328.18 in connection with a fake legal defense scheme. Among other things, CAMPBELL, and others, utilized numerous fake aliases and occupations, “burner” numbers for text messages and calls, and fraudulent invoices to defraud their victims.

CAMPBELL faces up to five (5) years in prison, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory $100 mandatory special assessment fee. CAMPBELL has agreed to pay restitution of approximately $446,302.23 to his victims.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney, Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TERRY BAHAM, JR. (“BAHAM”), age 37, a resident of St. Bernard Parish, pled guilty on August 12, 2025 before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long to possession with intent to distribute forty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and quantities of mixtures and substances containing detectable amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D), and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, in October 2021, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s deputies received information regarding the drug trafficking activities of BAHAM at his residence in Chalmette, Louisiana. Deputies obtained a search warrant for the residence. Inside the residence, deputies located and seized approximately 112 grams of fentanyl, 74 grams of cocaine, 14 grams of methamphetamine, 405 grams of marijuana and 112 THC cartridges. Also seized from the residence were four firearms: a Beretta Model BU9 Nano, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, a Glock Model 27, 40 caliber. semi-automatic pistol, a Zastava Arms Model PAP M85 NP, .223 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Sharps Bros. Model Warthog, .223 caliber rifle.

For the drug count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. For the firearm count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that CHERIKAH ROBERSON,(“ROBERSON”), age 40, of Raceland, LA, was indicted on August 14, 2025, for Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud (Count 1), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343; Making False Statements (Count 2), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2); Wire Fraud (Counts 3-6), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343; and Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641 (Count 7).

A joint investigation by agents with the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (“DOL-OIG”), and the Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of Inspector General (“VA-OIG”), revealed that beginning in February 2021, ROBERSON defrauded the Small Business Administration (“SBA”) of approximately $1,446,593.00 through the submission of approximately 60 fraudulent PPP loan applications. It was part of the scheme that ROBERSON recruited associates, friends, and family members, primarily via Facebook, to prepare and file fraudulent PPP applications. ROBERSON prepared and submitted false and fraudulent PPP sole proprietor loan applications via various online portals including, but not limited, to Blueacorn and Liberty SBF. ROBERSON created false and fraudulent invoices, bank statements, and federal tax forms (“Schedule C”) in order to prepare the fraudulent PPP loan applications.  ROBERSON falsely certified that the application and the information provided in the supporting documents were true and accurate when she electronically submitted the fraudulent PPP loan applications.

According to the indictment, ROBERSON also filed for her own fraudulent PPP application. On April 19, 2021, ROBERSON submitted a fictitious South Louisiana Bank Statement from February of 2020 as part of her PPP loan application. Additionally, ROBERSON claimed on her PPP application that she had income of $247,546.00 for the year 2019 and submitted a fraudulent Schedule C in support of her application for a PPP loan. ROBERSON knew that the representations in her PPP application were false, and the Schedule C was fraudulent because she did not have income of $247,546.00 for the year 2019, leading to her receipt of an SBA-backed PPP loan of approximately $20,833.00.

Additionally, ROBERSON is charged with defrauding, and attempting to defraud, various state offices of unemployment insurance (UI) through the submission of fraudulent UI applications. According to the indictment, ROBERSON recruited friends and family members via Facebook using the name “Rikah Marie” to file fraudulent UI applications. ROBERSON filed fraudulent UI applications for herself and others in various states, including Kentucky and Louisiana. ROBERSON charged individuals, for whom she filed fraudulent UI claims, approximately $1,200.00 to $1,500.00.

For example, beginning in July 2020, ROBERSON, defrauded the Commonwealth of Kentucky’s Office of Unemployment Insurance out of approximately $5,888.00 in UI benefits through the submission of a fraudulent UI applications

Lastly, the indictment alleges that ROBERSON fraudulently completed a FEMA Application for Disaster Assistance in September 2021. ROBERSON claimed that her mobile home, located in Bourg, LA, was damaged following Hurricane Ida’s  landfall on August 29, 2021. An investigation by FEMA revealed that the trailer ROBERSON claimed as her primary residence, was demolished in April 2021. As a result of the fraudulent claims, FEMA deposited $47,492.77 in disaster assistance into ROBERSON’s bank account.

In total, the indictment alleges ROBERSON fraudulently attempted to obtain approximately $1,446,593.00 as a result of the submission of the fraudulent PPP applications and loans, as well as,  $5,888.00 in fraudulent UI payments from the Commonwealth of Kentucky; and $47,492.77 in fraudulent payments from FEMA for Hurricane Ida.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. The Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General, is an active member of the PRAC Fraud Task Force.

“The PRAC was established to promote transparency and facilitate coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 20 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending, including spending via the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program. This case was also supported by the PRAC’s Pandemic Analytics Center of Excellence, which applies the latest advances in analytic and forensic technologies to help OIGs and law enforcement pursue data-driven pandemic relief fraud investigations.”

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; the Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of Inspector General; The Pandemic Response Accountability Committee; and the United States Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General COVID Fraud Unit. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on August 13, 2025, LEONARDO PARAMO-BARBAS (“PARAMO-BARBAS”), age 29, a resident of Nicaragua, pled guilty to misuse of a social security number, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B). Sentencing is set for December 3, 2025, before the U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance.

PARAMO-BARBAS faces up to five (5) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. PARAMO-BARBAS also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, on July 20, 2022, PARAMO-BARBAS illegally used a social security number, that was not his, for the purpose of obtaining and maintaining employment.

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.

Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement Removal Office, Homeland Security Investigations. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NIROKO JOHNSON “Ro,” (“JOHNSON”), age 29, of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 14, 2025, by United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier, after previously pleading guilty to possessing over seven hundred grams of fentanyl, and two firearms. As to the charge of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, JOHNSON was sentenced to 180 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. As to the charge of felon in possession of firearms, JOHNSON was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. All sentences are to run concurrently with each other.

According to court records, on March 18, 2022, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at JOHNSON’s home and recovered 747 grams of fentanyl and two firearms.  JOHNSON admitted he possessed the fentanyl with intent to distribute same. He also admitted that he possessed the firearms knowing he had prior felony convictions that prohibited him from possessing a firearm.

This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, as well as the New Orleans Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ERIC FALKINS (“FALKINS”), age 19, was sentenced on August 14, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown to 66 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, along with a $300 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute, marijuana, in violation of Tile 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846; possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D); and possession of a firearm, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

According to court documents, FALKINS had been selling marijuana in New Orleans since at least 2023, and conspiring with others to help him sell drugs. On January 24, 2024, FALKINS went to Touro Infirmary hospital in New Orleans to visit a patient. FALKINS brought a backpack inside the hospital that smelled like marijuana. Inside the backpack, there were two plastic bags containing distributable quantities of marijuana; 17 sealed, pre-packaged bags of marijuana; a sealed bag of marijuana edibles; two digital scales; and a Radical Firearms Model RF-15, multi-caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 29 rounds of ammunition.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on August 5, 2025, SCOTTY ANDREW BASCLE (“BASCLE”), age 25, pled guilty to distribution of more than 40 grams of a mixture or substance containing fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). BASCLE faces a term of five up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least four years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. BASCLE’s sentencing is set for November 4, 2025.

According to court documents, on December 12, 2023, as a part of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigation, BASCLE met with individuals he believed to be buyers in the parking lot of a drug store in Metairie, Louisiana. Purchased from BASCLE was 59.78 grams of fentanyl and all parties departed the location. In January 2024, the individuals believed to be buyers began making contact directly with BASCLE by phone, following an introduction by one of the individuals believed to be a buyer.

During the investigation, ATF agents developed a description of BASCLE’s vehicle and on January 29, 2024, they obtained a search warrant for BASCLE’s black Toyota Camry. On January 31, 2024, an individual BASCLE believed to be a buyer arranged, by phone, a sale with BASCLE at the same drug store in Metairie. BASCLE was located at a residence in Kenner and seen exiting the residence to place something in the Toyota Camry, then return inside the residence. Agents surveilled BASCLE as he left the residence, entered the Camry, and drove to the pre-determined meeting place for the deal with the individual believed to be a buyer.

Assisted by Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies, agents stopped the vehicle in the drug store parking lot. BASCLE was detained and the vehicle searched. Agents recovered a knotted baggie containing 56.38 grams of a mix of heroin and fentanyl from a hidden compartment in the vehicle.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that MARCO GOMEZ-ARGUELLO (“GOMEZ-ARGUELLO”), age 36, was sentenced on Wednesday, August 7, 2025, by United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe, after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) and Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(b)(1).

GOMEZ-ARGUELLO was sentenced to time served. Judge Ashe also sentenced GOMEZ-ARGUELLO to one year of supervised release and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, GOMEZ-ARGUELLO reentered the United States after being previously deported on October 28, 2013.

Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) New Orleans Field Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

 

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NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that LATOYA CANTRELL (“CANTRELL”), age 53, and JEFFREY PAUL VAPPIE, II (“VAPPIE”), age 52, both residents of New Orleans, were charged in a superseding indictment today on federal charges concerning wire fraud and obstruction of justice.

CANTRELL and VAPPIE were both charged in a conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, as well as a conspiracy to obstruct justice, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(k). VAPPIE is also charged with twelve counts of wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, and CANTRELL is charged in six of those wire fraud counts. VAPPIE is charged with making a false statement to the FBI, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001. CANTRELL is charged in one count of obstruction of justice, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(c)(1), and two counts of making a false declaration before a grand jury, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1623.

According to the allegations contained in the superseding indictment, while CANTRELL was Mayor of New Orleans and VAPPIE was a New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officer and member of her executive protection team, CANTRELL and VAPPIE developed a personal, intimate relationship as early as October of 2021. From that time until VAPPIE’s retirement in June 2024, they embarked on a scheme to defraud the City of New Orleans and NOPD by exploiting VAPPIE’s job and CANTRELL’s authority as Mayor to have the City and NOPD pay VAPPIE’s salary and expenses during times VAPPIE claimed to be on duty but when he was actually engaged in personal activities, often with CANTRELL. The allegations contained in the superseding indictment describe the many steps that CANTRELL and VAPPIE took to hide their scheme and perpetuate their continued fraud, including using a secure messaging platform, WhatsApp, to exchange over 15,000 messages, pictures, and audio clips in an eight-month period; intimidating subordinates; harassing a citizen; lying to colleagues and associates; deleting evidence; making false statements to FBI agents; giving the grand jury an affidavit signed under oath and penalty of perjury that contained numerous false statements; and, ultimately, committing perjury before a federal grand jury, all for the purpose of distracting and impeding inquiries and investigations, including a federal grand jury investigation.

The superseding indictment alleges that CANTRELL and VAPPIE perpetuated their scheme both in New Orleans and during out-of-state trips. In both instances, VAPPIE’s activities while claiming to be on duty were conspicuously different than any other member of the Executive Protection Unit. While in New Orleans, they treated a city-owned apartment in the Pontalba as their personal, shared residence and coordinated to spend time together there, engaging in personal activities, while VAPPIE claimed to be on duty for EPU and was paid to be doing his job. CANTRELL occasionally canceled scheduled work events to facilitate personal and intimate interactions with VAPPIE in the Pontalba apartment.

The superseding indictment also alleges that CANTRELL and VAPPIE arranged for VAPPIE to accompany CANTRELL on at least 14 domestic and international trips to maximize their time together and engage in personal activities. In their private text messages, CANTRELL characterized trips with VAPPIE as “times when we are truly alone” and what “spoils me the most.” These trips included trips to San Francisco, which VAPPIE and CANTRELL decided to extend an extra day so they could visit a series of Napa Valley wineries. While VAPPIE was wine tasting, on April 9, 2022, he claimed to work, and was paid for working, a 15-hour day.

In August 2022, CANTRELL said she would “make it happen” to have VAPPIE accompany her on a 3-day trip to Washington, D.C., a trip that they both agreed that they “needed.” Shortly after they retuned, VAPPIE described the trip to CANTRELL as “another leg on our journey” as he declared his love for her and their physical relationship. In total, the City of New Orleans paid over $70,000 for VAPPIE’s travel on these trips.

When asked about her reason for bringing members of the Executive Protection Unit with her on out-of-state trips, a practice CANTRELL began about five months after VAPPIE joined EPU, she justified it as a “pivot” due to COVID and a matter of “safety.” At the same time, however, she continued to take out-of-state trips without protection. In fact, on the same day she gave one such statement, she canceled a work trip to Miami, and traveled alone—by plane, then bus, and then ferry—to the island of Martha’s Vineyard in Massachusetts to spend time with VAPPIE while he attended a conference paid for by the City of New Orleans related to his position on the HANO Board of Commissioners—a position to which CANTRELL appointed him a few months earlier. On other occasions, when VAPPIE was unavailable to accompany CANTRELL on a trip, CANTRELL decided not to take another member of Executive Protection.

The superseding indictment alleges that both VAPPIE and CANTRELL were aware their conduct broke criminal laws. For instance, in April 2022, an associate told CANTRELL explicitly in multiple text messages that spending public funds and using public resources for her personal relationship was a “felony.” When CANTRELL and VAPPIE learned that the news media was investigating their time together in the Pontalba, they agreed to “be straight and together.” Days after the first news stories broke, in November 2022, VAPPIE conducted numerous online searches for New Orleans-area attorneys who specialize in the practice of criminal law, and he researched WhatsApp’s security features. But the defendants’ wire fraud scheme nevertheless continued until VAPPIE’s retirement in June 2024.

As alleged in the superseding indictment, in July 2023, the grand jury issued subpoenas to both VAPPIE and CANTRELL compelling the production of records. The FBI also interviewed VAPPIE. During the interview, VAPPIE lied about the nature and circumstances of his relationship. In response to the subpoena, CANTRELL produced a selection of responsive records, but none of the over 15,000 WhatsApp messages she exchanged with VAPPIE. CANTRELL also created an affidavit, sworn under oath, that she had activated a feature that automatically deleted messages in 2021. CANTRELL submitted a screen shot of her iPhone, showing that WhatsApp messages were set to delete in 24 hours. In fact, CANTRELL did not turn on that feature until December 26, 2022, roughly one month after the news media began speculating on her conduct, VAPPIE conducted online searches concerning WhatsApp and its security level, and by which time several people had warned VAPPIE and CANTRELL that their conduct was illegal. This “disappearing messages” feature, moreover, only applied to new messages. During roughly this same period, CANTRELL also manually deleted thousands of her prior WhatsApp messages with VAPPIE. As alleged, even at the time CANTRELL responded to the grand jury subpoena, she still possessed more than 50 pictures, including screen shots of correspondence with VAPPIE, that were responsive to the subpoena, but which she nevertheless concealed from the grand jury.

The superseding indictment further alleges that VAPPIE and CANTRELL continued their pattern of obstruction through the rest of 2023 and 2024. This included improperly pressuring the Interim Superintendent of NOPD to overrule findings of an internal investigation into VAPPIE’s conduct. When the Interim Superintendent did not heed that directive, CANTRELL ordered the Interim Superintendent to nevertheless reassign VAPPIE back to her protection detail. Months later, in a meeting VAPPIE attended, CANTRELL informed the Interim Superintendent that the Interim Superintendent would be replaced. Similarly, when a private citizen took pictures of CANTRELL and VAPPIE together in public, dining and consuming alcohol al fresco while VAPPIE reported to be on duty, CANTRELL obtained non-public information about the citizen, filed a police report, and sought a restraining order against the citizen.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

If they are convicted of the conspiracy to commit wire fraud, CANTRELL and VAPPIE each faces up to five years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. For each count of wire fraud, CANTRELLand VAPPIE each faces up to twenty years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. For the conspiracy to obstruct justice, CANTRELL and VAPPIE each faces up to twenty years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. For the false statement to the FBI, VAPPIE faces up to five years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. For each obstruction of justice count, CANTRELL faces up to twenty years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. For each count of making false statements to a grand jury, CANTRELL faces up to five years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. For each count, both defendants face a fine of up to $250,000 and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter and expressed appreciation for the support provided by the Department of Justice’s Computer Crimes and Intellectual Properties Section Cybercrime Lab, the City of New Orleans Office of Inspector General, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, and Nicholas D. Moses, of the Financial Crimes Unit and Health Care Fraud Coordinator, are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson, announced that FLOYD JONES (“JONES”), age 38, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 5, 2025, by United States District Judge Greg Gerard Guidry, after previously pleading guilty to Counts Three, Four, and Five of an eight-count superseding indictment pending against him. Counts Three and Four charge JONES with distribution of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). Count Five charges JONES with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

JONES was sentenced to eighty (80) months imprisonment as to Counts 3, 4, and 5, to be served concurrently. Judge Guidry also ordered that JONES be placed on supervised release for four (4) years and pay a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on October 3, 2024, JONES was arrested for suspected narcotics and firearm trafficking. On July 15 and August 22, 2024, JONES distributed over 50 grams or more of methamphetamine to undisclosed persons. Additionally, JONES sold a Ruger Model Security-9, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, loaded with 8 rounds of ammunition. JONES knew he was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing the firearm and ammunition.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit. 

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today the unsealing of a seven-count indictment charging the following individuals:

• DARRYL SUMLER, (SUMLER), age 61, of Slidell, Louisiana
• DARRYL GOODMAN, (GOODMAN), age 47, of New Orleans, Louisiana
• JASON SLAUGHTER, (SLAUGHTER), age 33, of Bogalusa, Louisiana

The indictment was returned Friday, June 26, 2025, and unsealed Wednesday, July 30, 2025, after all individuals were arrested by local law enforcement and Drug Enforcement Administration agents. All three individuals were indicted in Count 1 for Conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1); § 841(b)(1)(B); and 846. If convicted of Count 1, they face a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.

SUMLER was indicted in Counts 2, 5, 6, and 7 for distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(B). If convicted of any of these four counts, SUMLER faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.

SLAUGHTER was indicted in Count 3 for possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(B). If convicted, he faces a minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment.

GOODMAN was indicted in Count 4 for distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and § 841(b)(1)(C). If convicted of Count 4, he faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release following imprisonment. As to each count in which they are charged, SUMLER, SLAUGHTER, and GOODMAN, face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown, but continuing until at least June 13, 2025, SUMLER, SLAUGHTER, and GOODMAN conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl throughout the Eastern District of Louisiana.

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).

Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Slidell Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ERNEST X. TAYLOR, JR. (“TAYLOR”), age 40, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on August 6, 2025, to Bank Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344(2).

According to court documents, between 2019 and 2022, TAYLOR applied for over $400,000 in loans from credit unions and falsely claimed that the funds would be utilized to purchase vehicles. TAYLOR applied for loans under other people’s names and did not disclose to the credit unions that the loan proceeds would go to TAYLOR. In furtherance of his scheme, TAYLOR presented materially false documentation to the credit unions, including fraudulent vehicle titles and falsified pay stubs. After receiving the loan proceeds, TAYLOR defaulted on the loans.

The Honorable Jane T. Milazzo set TAYLOR’s sentencing for October 29, 2025.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Edward Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit are handling the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced the August 7, 2025 indictment of FEDERICO MENDEZ-FRANCISCO a/k/a “JORGE SANTOS ARROYO,” a/k/a “JORGE A. GORDILLO,” a/k/a “FEDERICO MENDEZ,” a/k/a “FREDERICO MENDEZ,” a/k/a “FEDERICO MENDEZ FRANCISCO,” (“MENDEZ-FRANCISCO”), age 40, a native of Guatemala, for re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a)(b)(1).

According to court documents, MENDEZ-FRANCISCO, an illegal alien, was found in Jefferson Parish on May 2, 2025. Law enforcement previously removed MENDEZ-FRANCISCO from the United States on July 3, 2024, and he had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to re-enter the United States. On August 24, 2005 and prior to his removal from the United States, MENDEZ-FRANCISCO pled guilty to felony forgery in the Circuit Court of Pike County, Missouri.

MENDEZ-FRANCISCO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (“ICE-ERO”) in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is prosecuting the matter.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on August 5, 2025, KANESHA FLORENCE (“FLORENCE”), age 28, pled guilty to theft of mail by a postal employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.

According to court records, on February 6, 2023, FLORENCE allegedly unlawfully stole and removed a greeting card containing an Amazon Gift Card came into her possession and was intended to be conveyed by mail.

FLORENCE faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. Sentencing is set for November 4, 2025, before Chief United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service - Office of the Inspector General, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. 

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ABRAHAM RAMIREZ-CANTOR (“RAMIREZ-CANTOR”), age 40, a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty today to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, RAMIREZ-CANTOR was previously removed from the United States on November 21, 2005. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on April 3, 2025, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to re-enter the country. United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo accepted the guilty plea and sentenced RAMIREZ-CANTOR to time served.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that DANIEL WAYNE CALLIHAN (“CALLIHAN”), age 37, a resident of Amite, Louisiana, pled guilty today before United States District Judge Lance M. Africk to a two-count Superseding Indictment charging him with kidnapping resulting in death, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1201(a) (Count One), and transporting a minor in interstate commerce with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(a) (Count Two). CALLIHAN was previously charged for his crimes in a federal complaint on June 14, 2024, and has remained in federal custody since that time.

“Today’s resolution ensures that Daniel Wayne Callihan, will be held accountable for his heinous and atrocious crimes,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson. “This successful prosecution is the result of the significant collaboration by local, state, and federal agencies across Louisiana and Mississippi. Their collective dedication and hard work ensured that Mr. Callihan will now face justice.”

"The FBI is committed to relentlessly pursuing violent predators and our hearts go out to the families of these victims," said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office.  "Every law enforcement partner who worked on this case was determined to deliver justice for the Brunett family and the people of Tangipahoa Parish.  The FBI thanks the U.S. Marshals Service, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office, Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and the Jackson Police Department for their efforts to make sure Daniel Callihan will never do anything like this again."

According to court documents, on or about June 12, 2024, CALLIHAN was present inside the Loranger, Louisiana residence of Adult Victim 1, who lived with her two daughters, Minor Victim 1 (a four-year-old female) and Minor Victim 2 (a six-year-old female). While present in the residence, CALLIHAN stabbed Adult Victim 1 more than fifty times, resulting in her death. After killing Adult Victim 1, CALLIHAN kidnapped Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 using Adult Victim 1’s 2012 Chrysler 200 automobile, bearing a Louisiana license plate, and drove to McComb, Mississippi.

CALLIHAN, with Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 still in the car, then returned to Amite Louisiana, where he picked up Co-Conspirator 1. CALLIHAN then drove Adult Victim 1’s car to a residence in Jackson, Mississippi located in the 3900 block of Boozier Drive.

On either the evening of June 12, 2024, or early on June 13, 2024, CALLIHAN and Co-Conspirator 1 engaged in sexual battery with Minor Victim 2. CALLIHAN intended that Minor Victim 2 would engage in criminal sexual activity, namely violations of criminal laws of the State of Louisiana, including La. Rev. Stat. 14.81 and La Rev. Stat. 43.1, and the State of Mississippi, including Miss. Code § 97-3-95 and Miss. Code § 97-5-23, at the time he transported Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 from Louisiana to Mississippi.

Thereafter, on June 13, 2024, while at the Boozier Drive property, CALLIHAN purposely suffocated Minor Victim 1 to death by holding Minor Victim 1 closely against his chest.

Later on June 13, 2024, after Adult Victim 1’s body was discovered, federal, state, and local law enforcement authorities began an investigation. The investigation determined the location of both CALLIHAN and Adult Victim 1’s car. A search of the Boozier Drive property led to the discovery of a pit on the property. Law enforcement officers discovered Minor Victim 1’s body and Minor Victim 2 in the pit.

After being taken into custody and waiving his Miranda rights, CALLIHAN admitted to stabbing Adult Victim 1 to death and kidnapping Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 in Adult Victim 1’s vehicle. CALLIHAN further admitted that he and Co-Conspirator 1 transported Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2 to Mississippi, where he and Co-Conspirator 1 committed sexual battery on Minor Victim 2, and he smothered Minor Victim 1 to death. CALLIHAN’s admission that he and Co-Conspirator 1 committed sexual battery on Minor Victim 2 was corroborated in a voluntary, post-Miranda statement Co-Conspirator 1 made to law enforcement authorities.

As part of the resolution of this matter, the Government has agreed that should the Court accept the defendant’s plea of guilty to the Superseding Indictment, the Government will not seek the death penalty with regard to Count One. Consequently, for Count One, CALLIHAN faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. For Count Two, CALLIHAN faces a mandatory minimum of (10) ten years in prison, and up to life in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. For each count, CALLIHAN also faces at least (5) five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and the obligation to register as a sex offender.

Sentencing before Judge Africk has been scheduled for November 19, 2025. Under the terms of the plea agreement, the sentence for Count One may run either concurrent or consecutive to the sentence imposed for Count Two. Further, any sentence or portion thereof may run either concurrent or consecutive to any sentence imposed in any other jurisdiction, including, but not limited to, the 21st Judicial District Court (Louisiana), State of Louisiana v. Callihan, Case No. 2401198, and Hinds County (Mississippi) Circuit Court, State of Mississippi v. Callihan, Case No. 24-466. The terms of CALLIHAN’s plea are not contingent upon the disposition of any case or sentence imposed in any matter pending in any other jurisdiction.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter and expressed appreciation for the great support provided by the United States Marshals Service, the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office, the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation, and the Jackson (Mississippi) Police Department. Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson also commended the exceptional work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana Victim/Witness Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, and Sarah Dawkins, of the Violent Crime Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.  Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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