Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JORGE LUIS VILLANUEVA (“VILLANUEVA"), age 35, pled guilty on June 26, 2025, to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and 1326(b)(1).

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

At sentencing, VILLANUEVA faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman 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, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that RAMBO HARNA (“HARNA”), citizen of Romania, pleaded guilty on June 26, 2025 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and interstate transportation of stolen goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.

According to court records, HARNA, and others, conspired to defraud Walmart stores across the country, out of merchandise, money orders, and money transfer requests.  The scheme unfolded when a co-conspirator would count money out in front of a cashier, while another of the  co-conspirators, including HARNA, would help to distract the cashier.  Using a sleight-of-hand technique, the co-conspirator would pretend to hand the cashier the full amount while secretly retrieving a large portion of the cash.  The co-conspirators would then return merchandise for a refund to other Walmart stores in a different state or obtain the full value of money orders and money transfer requests after having only paid for a fraction of the cost.

At the sentencing hearing scheduled for July 23, 2025, before United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, HARNA faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, 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 Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, and Walmart Home Office Central Investigations Organized Retail Crime Division 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 United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that MARCO GOMEZ-ARGUELLO ("GOMEZ-ARGUELLO"), age 36, pled guilty on July 3, 2025, for illegal re-entry 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).

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

At sentencing, GOMEZ-ARGUELLO faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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 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 – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that TEVIN BORNES (“BORNES”), age 31, a resident of Kenner, Louisiana, pled guilty on July 2, 2025, to violating the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts, before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo.

According to court documents, in response to a complaint, law enforcement searched BORNES’ apartment on July 31, 2023 and seized 12.5 grams of marijuana, 47.74 grams of pure crystal methamphetamine, 9.75 grams of cocaine base, 137.22 grams of methamphetamine, 14.5 grams of cocaine hydrochloride, and 4 firearms, including: a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, equipped with a machinegun conversion device, a Pioneer Arms Model Sporter, 7.62 millimeter caliber semi-automatic rifle, a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Del-Ton DTI-15, 5.56 caliber semi-automatic pistol.

BORNES pled guilty to Counts 1 through 4 of the indictment. Count 1 of the indictment charged BORNES with possession, with intent to distribute, 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, and quantities of cocaine and cocaine base (“crack”), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C).  For this offense, he faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of five years, up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 2 charged BORNES with possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  For this offense, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment, up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years supervised release.

Count 3 charged BORNES with possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o).  For this offense, he faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.

Count 4 charged BORNES 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).  For this offense, he faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release. For each of the charged counts, BORNES also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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 Homeland Security Investigations the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Kenner Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit oversees the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that PEDRO TAILOR CASTILLO-BONILLA (“CASTILLO- BONILLA”), age 42, a native of Honduras, was indicted on July 3, 2025, for re-entry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, CASTILLO-BONILLA, an illegal alien, was found in Jefferson Parish on June 18, 2025.  He had previously been removed to Honduras on October 20, 2011, and August 15, 2012.

If convicted, CASTILLO-BONILLA faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory 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.

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.  Special Assistant United States Attorney Frederick W. Veters Jr., of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that TAMAS KOLOZSVARI (“KOLOZSVARI”), age 30, a Romanian national, pled guilty on July 1, 2025 to three counts of access device fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(a)(4).

According to court documents, on November 13, 2024 and November 14, 2024, KOLOZSVARI, and two others, possessed device-making equipment, namely credit/debit card skimmers, at three retail locations in the Eastern District of Louisiana and installed those skimmers on point-of-sale machines. 

KOLOZSVARI faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100, as to each count. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for October 28, 2025.

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).

The case was investigated by Special Agents of the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General; Deputies with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office; Deputies with the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office; and Officers with the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Christine M. Calogero of the General Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that RASHAD MONTAGUE (“MONTAGUE”), age 33, of New Orleans, pled guilty on June 30, 2025 to an eleven (11) count superseding bill of information before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier. The superseding bill of information charged:

• Count 1 -  Conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of Fentanyl and heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846;
• Count 2 – Distribution of a quantity of fentanyl and heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C);
• Counts 3-8 - Distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C);
• Count 9 – Possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C);
• Count 10 – Conspiracy to Possess Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A); and
• Count 11 - Maintaining a drug-involved premises, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856 and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.

Judge Barbier scheduled sentencing for September 25, 2025.  At sentencing, MONTAGUE faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment with a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three (3) years of supervised release for Counts 1 through 9; up to twenty (20) years imprisonment with a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release for Count 10; and up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, with a fine of up to $500,000, and up to four (4) years of supervised release for Count 11.  All eleven counts also carry a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, MONTAGUE conspired with others to maintain multiple residences on Harmony Street as drug-involved stash houses where fentanyl and heroin were trafficked.  MONTAGUE distributed fentanyl and heroin from these residences for a period of at least four months and was arrested by law enforcement as he attempted to flee one of these residences during the execution of a federal search warrant.  Firearms and fentanyl were later located in the residence MONTAGUE fled.

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 Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit.

This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms.  NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles.  For more information on NIBIN, visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballisticinformation-network-nibin.

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 – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that DERY JONCARLOS ZELAYA-ZELAYA a/k/a “DERY ZELAYA,” (“ZELAYA-ZELAYA”), age 28, a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty on July 1, 2025 to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, ZELAYA-ZELAYA was previously removed from the United States on May 13, 2022, and December 4, 2019, 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.  United States District Judge Susie Morgan set sentencing for August 26, 2025 at 2 p.m.

ZELAYA-ZELAYA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two (2) years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that BRIAN PICQUET, age 38, of Orleans Parish, pled guilty on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long to Conspiracy to Distribute, and Possess with Intent to Distribute, Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, and two counts of Distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.

As to each count, PICQUET faces a maximum penalty of twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. PICQUET also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee as to each count.

Sentencing in this matter is set for September 30, 2025.

According to court documents, on March 14, 2024 and March 22, 2024, during the course of a Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigation, PICQUET sold fentanyl to an individual whom he believed to be a legitimate buyer.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Briana Williams of the Narcotics Unit. 

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that DORU ADAMESC, a/k/a “Petru Golban,” (“ADAMESC”), age 33, a Romanian national, was sentenced on June 26, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit access device fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(b)(2).

According to court documents, on May 19, 2024, and May 20, 2024, ADAMESC, and a co-conspirator, purchased items at retail establishments so that they could approach the credit card reading machines.  ADAMESC’s co-conspirator then distracted the cashiers while ADAMESC covertly installed card skimmers on the credit card reading machines.  ADAMESC was arrested on June 5, 2024, when he returned to one of the stores to attempt to retrieve a skimming device.  A search of his vehicle resulted in the seizure of two large magnets, commonly used to activate the Bluetooth capabilities on skimming devices.  ADAMESC’s cellular phones also were seized; one phone contained a photo of approximately 60 gift cards spread out on a counter.  Such gift cards are typically re-encoded with stolen card numbers in order to make fraudulent purchases or withdrawals.   

Additionally, law enforcement officers seized six credit card skimmers before ADAMESC was able to retrieve them.  These skimmers captured approximately 421 credit, debit, and Electronic Benefit Transfer (“EBT”) card numbers.

“We appreciate the collaboration with our law enforcement partners for their hard work on this investigation.  Those who are involved in fraud regarding USDA taxpayer funded programs will be investigated by our office and brought to justice to protect the integrity of those programs,” said USDA-OIG Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Wilkins.

“This case is an excellent example of law enforcement professionals on the federal, state and local levels working together,” St. Tammany Sheriff Randy Smith said. “Thanks to the hard work of the detectives with the STPSO Financial Crimes Unit and the partnerships they have built with our federal, state and local partners, we were able to identify and arrest this individual, who is now being brought to justice. Installing skimming devices to steal innocent people’s financial information is not only illegal — it’s a violation of trust. I’m proud of the relentless effort our team put in to protect the people of St. Tammany Parish and beyond.”

U.S. District Judge Nannette J. Brown sentenced ADAMESC to serve 27 years in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Judge Brown further imposed a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General; the United States Secret Service; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office; the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office; the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office; and the New Orleans Police Department, in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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Today, Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced criminal charges against four defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud Medicare and other government programs. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.

“The charges announced yesterday reinforce the combined missions of the Department of Justice, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and our law enforcement partners,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. “Our office, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate and prosecute perpetrators of fraud, and seek justice for those impacted by Health Care Fraud schemes.”

“This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

The charges announced today by Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in alleged false billings and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled, to line their own pockets. The  Government, in connection with the 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown,  seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets.

The following individuals were charged in the Eastern District of Louisiana:

• Leland Roberts, 46, of Tifton, Georgia, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare for over $30 million for medically unnecessary genetic testing, and to pay and receive kickbacks. As alleged in the indictment, Roberts, co-owner, chief executive officer of, and (later) consultant to Luminus Diagnostics, a diagnostic laboratory located in Tifton, Georgia, conspired with others to procure orders for genetic testing in exchange for kickbacks, including orders acquired through purported telemedicine. To ensure the false and fraudulent claims would be paid, Roberts and his co-conspirators allegedly designed the genetic testing order forms to be “dummy proof”—with prepopulated diagnosis codes and check-the-box panels—and frequently billed the tests through another laboratory where co-conspirators thought the claims were more likely to be approved, which they concealed via a sham contract. Roberts and his co-conspirators caused the submission of over $30 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for genetic testing, and Medicare paid approximately $4.4 million based on those claims. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.
• Dr. Marion Lee, 61, of Cordelle, Georgia, was charged by information with conspiracy to defraud the United States in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare approximately $24 million for medically unnecessary genetic testing, and to pay and receive kickbacks. As alleged in the information, Dr. Lee, co-owner of and medical advisor to Luminus Diagnostics, a diagnostic laboratory located in Tifton, Georgia, conspired with others to procure orders for genetic testing in exchange for kickbacks, including orders acquired through purported telemedicine. To ensure the false and fraudulent claims would be paid, Lee and his co-conspirators allegedly designed the genetic testing order forms to be “dummy proof”—with prepopulated diagnosis codes and check-the-box panels—and frequently billed the tests through another laboratory where co-conspirators thought the claims were more likely to be approved, which they concealed via a sham contract, among other deceptive means. Dr. Lee and his co-conspirators caused the submission of over $24 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for genetic testing, and Medicare paid approximately $4 million based on those claims. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.
• Steven D. Peyroux, 56, of Canton, Georgia, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and two counts of health care fraud in connection with a scheme to bill Medicare approximately $12.1 million for over-the-counter (“OTC”) COVID-19 tests that were not requested and ineligible for reimbursement. As alleged in the indictment, Peyroux, a chiropractor and purported health care consultant, conspired with others to pay kickbacks in exchange for Medicare beneficiary information nationwide, including names, Medicare identification numbers, and clearly fabricated recordings of individuals posing as beneficiaries and requesting OTC COVID-19 tests, which they used to bill Medicare for OTC COVID-19 tests that were not requested. In an attempt to avoid Medicare scrutiny, the indictment alleged that Peyroux and co-conspirators solicited multiple providers to join the scheme, who they directed to enter into sham agreements and make false statements in response to Medicare audits, to conceal the misconduct. Peyroux and his co-conspirators caused the submission of approximately $12.1 million in false and fraudulent claims, of which Medicare paid approximately $11 million. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.
• Zoe Francis, 46, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged by information with theft concerning programs receiving federal funds in connection with her role in embezzling funds from the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies (“IWES”), a non-profit organization based in New Orleans that received grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other federal funds. As alleged in the information, Francis, as the chief operating officer of IWES, embezzled the funds for the benefit of herself and family members, including unauthorized expenditures for personal events and Amazon purchases. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Eastern District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Gary A. Crosby II of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.

“The scale of this Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said HHS-OIG Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

"The FBI will continue working side by side with the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana to bring these individuals to justice for their actions," said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office.

The Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle, District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle, District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting the cases in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team.

Descriptions of each EDLA case and others involved in yesterday’s enforcement action are available at website.

The Eastern District of Louisiana, in particular, worked with the Department’s Criminal Division and the following law enforcement organizations to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the enforcement period: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the United States Secret Service; and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

An information or indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

*Updated August 21, 2025

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that WILLIAM GILCHRIST (“GILCHRIST”), a resident of Greenville, Mississippi, was sentenced on June 24, 2025, by United States District Judge Susie Morgan to 3 years of probation and a $4,000 fine for impersonating a deputy United States Marshal, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 912.

According to the indictment, on or about June 19, 2024, GILCHRISTfalsely assumed and pretended to be a Fugitive Task Force Officer with the United States Marshals Service.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that LUIS A. GAMA (“GAMA”), age 38, a native of Mexico, pled guilty on June 26, 2025, to re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, GAMA, a Mexican national, was found in Tangipahoa Parish on or around April 10, 2025.  He had previously been deported to Mexico on September 10, 2019.

At the sentencing hearing scheduled for July 23, 2025, before United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, GAMA faces a maximum penalty of two years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory 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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that RICHARD ISLA TALENS (“TALENS”), age 39, of Slidell, Louisiana, pled guilty to Transportation of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(1) and (b)(1).  TALENS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five (5) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00.  In addition, TALENS faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life after his release from prison, as well as payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

According to court documents, the case stemmed from  an investigation by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (“CBP”) assigned to Dulles International Airport in Dulles, VA. CBP officers determined that TALENS knowingly transported an Apple MacBook computer containing images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of prepubescent minors from the Eastern District of Louisiana to Istanbul, Turkey, and returned with these illicit materials back to the United States.  Special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) joined the investigation and executed a search warrant at TALENS’s Slidell residence.  The HSI agents found additional evidence depicting the sexual victimization of prepubescent children in TALENS’s residence.  As a result, HSI agents arrested TALENS.

Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for September 18, 2025, before United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon.

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.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and the Slidell Police Department.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that SHAWN ROUSELL (“ROUSELL”), age 30, was indicted on June 26, 2025, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

According to the indictment, ROUSELL, possessed a Glock Model 27, .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun, loaded with ammunition. ROUSELL is a convicted felon and, as such, is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.  If convicted, ROUSELL  faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and 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 beyond a reasonable doubt.  

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and New Orleans Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright of the Financial 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 – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ROOSEVELT COCKHERAN (“COCKHERAN”) , age 41, formerly a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 26, 2025 by United States District Judge Susie Morgan to 262 months pursuant to his pleas of guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and, to Distribute Cocaine, in violation of  Title 21, United States Code, Section 846; Unlawful Use of a Communications Facility, to Further a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b); Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C); and Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

Specifically, COCKHERAN was sentenced to 262 months for the Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Cocaine charge, 48 months (statutory maximum) for the Unlawful Use of a Communications Facility charge, 262 months (statutory maximum) for the Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine charge, and 180 months (statutory maximum) for the Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge.  The sentences were ordered to be served concurrently.  Judge Morgan also imposed an 8-year term of supervised release to follow COCKHERAN’s incarceration.

Court documents reflect that COCKHERAN was arrested by Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) deputies after they recovered several plastic bags containing cocaine and crack cocaine, a black digital scale, a Black Taurus Model PT 24/7 PRO handgun with a magazine containing 11 live rounds of .45 ammo and his cell phone, from his pick-up truck.  Examination of the cell phone by JPSO experts and special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, revealed text messages, photographs and other information documenting his drug trafficking activities.  The Court found that COCKHERAN was the source of supply for local Jefferson Parish drug traffickers, and that he supervised their activities.  Court documents also revealed that COCKHERAN is a prior drug offender under federal law.

Three other persons have pled guilty in this investigation.

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.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on June 26, 2025, NOAH TORRES (“TORRES”), age 48, of Kenner, was sentenced for Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Abuse of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2).

According to court documents, on Monday, July 24, 2023, TORRES was arrested at his Kenner residence by Special Agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, after the execution of a federal search warrant.  TORRES admitted to possessing 219 images and 340 videos depicting prepubescent minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon sentenced TORRES to time served and, (10) ten years supervised release, sex offender treatment and registration.

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.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, including the Portland, Oregon and New Orleans, Louisiana offices; the Kenner Police Department; and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that CURTIS WILLIAMSON JR. (“WILLIAMSON JR.”), age 42, of Houma, LA, was sentenced on June 26, 2025 to 120 months imprisonment, followed by ten (10) years of supervised release, by U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, after previously pleading guilty to one Possession with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).

According to filed court documents, after receiving a March 22, 2023 complaint of WILLIAMSON JR. trafficking narcotics, a search warrant was executed by the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, on WILLIAMSON JR.’s residence that revealed the presence of  multiple kilograms of methamphetamine located in large bags in his bedroom closet.

Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.  This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JUNIOR ELIXON BURGOS-LARA (“BURGOS-LARA”), age 28, a native of Honduras, was indicted on June 26, 2025, for re-entry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, BURGOS-LARA an illegal alien, was found in St. Tammany Parish on May 21, 2025.  He had previously been removed to Honduras on November 27, 2018.

If convicted, BURGOS-LARA faces a maximum penalty of two years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory 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.

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.  Special Assistant United States Attorney Frederick W. Veters Jr., of the General Crimes Unit, oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ELVIN LICONA CERRATO (“LICONA”), age 36, a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty and was sentenced on June 26, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Nanette Jolivette-Brown for illegal re-entry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).  LICONA was sentenced to a total term of time served and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  Additionally, LICONA’s custody was immediately transferred to the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement pursuant to the pending detainer.

According to court documents, LICONA was previously removed from the United States on November 14, 2016.  He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on April 6, 2025 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 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 Maestri 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, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that MAINOR FUENTES-PINEDA (“FUENTES-PINEDA”), age 22, a native of Honduras, was indicted on June 26, 2025, for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5).

According to court documents, FUENTES-PINEDA, was found in Orleans Parish on or about April 29, 2025, in possession of a semi-automatic pistol, a Glock Model 42, 380 caliber semi-automatic pistol.

If convicted, FUENTES-PINEDA faces a maximum penalty of fifteen years imprisonment, 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 reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

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.  Special Assistant United States Attorney Frederick W. Veters Jr., of the General Crimes Unit, oversees the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CARDELL GLOVER, (“GLOVER”), age 24, was sentenced on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, by United States District Judge Darrel J. Papillion, after previously pleading guilty to a three-count indictment.  Count One charged GLOVER with being a felon in possession a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  Count Two charged GLOVER with possession of a stolen firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(j) and (a)(2).  Count Three charged GLOVER with possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o) and 924(a)(2).

GLOVER was sentenced to 96 months imprisonment as to each of the three counts of the indictment, to be served concurrently.  Judge Papillion also ordered that GLOVER be placed on supervised release for three years as to each of the three counts, to be served concurrently, and pay a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on July 9, 2024, a rideshare driver reported to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) that her weapon had been stolen.  She also works as a security guard and had placed her work firearm, a Glock Model 19 Gen 5, nine-millimeter pistol, in her trunk earlier that afternoon prior to starting her rideshare work.  She reported to law enforcement that she had picked up a fare, a male and a female passenger, at the Dollar General and allowed them to place their groceries in the trunk of her car.  When they arrived at the passengers’ destination, an apartment complex in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, the passengers retrieved the groceries from the trunk and went to an unknown second floor apartment.  The rideshare driver then looked in the trunk of her vehicle to discover her firearm missing.  She had said that the first name of the passenger who ordered the ride was “Dell.”

GLOVER pled guilty to the entire indictment and admitted that he stole the Glock pistol.  GLOVER also admitted that, at the time of its recovery, the Glock pistol, was equipped with machinegun conversion device, making it a machinegun as defined by the National Firearms Act (26 U.S.C. § 5845(b)).

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 and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on Tuesday, June 24, 2025, LINDA TRIGGS (“TRIGGS”), age 73, a resident of Marrero, pleaded guilty to making a false statement related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2).

On March 27, 2020, the President of the United States signed into law the CARES Act, which provided emergency assistance, administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), to small business owners affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  One of the  primary sources of funding for small businesses was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).

According to the charging documents, on or about April 18, 2021, TRIGGS, on behalf of a non-profit corporation that she owned, made false statements to an approved lender to obtain approximately $59,065 for PPP loans.

TRIGGS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of supervised release of up to three years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  United States District Judge Brandon S. Long will sentence TRIGGS on September 30, 2025.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that a federal jury convicted 30-year-old, JOVANTE MATTHEWS (“MATTHEWS”),of committing an armed carjacking that occurred on April 3, 2024, in the 2900 block of Hollygrove Street.  The jury also found that MATTHEWS met the legal definition of being an “Armed Career Criminal.”

MATTHEWS had been charged in a three-count federal indictment.  Count 1 charged him with Carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119.  Count 2 charged him with brandishing a firearm during, and in relation to a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). Count 3 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).  The Government also charged MATTHEWS with a sentencing enhancement for being an Armed Career Criminal, alleging that he had three previous convictions for crimes of violence.

According to the evidence introduced at trial, on April 3, 2024, at approximately 12:00 noon,  MATTHEWS approached two contractors who were renovating a house on Hollygrove Street.  He produced a semi-automatic handgun, put it to the head of one of the victims and demanded his keys and wallet.  The victims complied and Matthews drove off in their Ford F-350 work truck, that belonged to a construction company.  After the victims reported the incident, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers arrived at the scene, and obtained a neighbor’s security camera video.  The video showed the perpetrator, who wore distinctive clothing, walking up to the truck and the victims at 11:58 am, but did not capture the actual robbery.  After NOPD officers put out a bulletin on the stolen truck, two Levee Board police officers observed the truck in the Gentilly area of New Orleans.  When they attempted to stop  the vehicle, it fled at a high rate of speed.  As the truck sped through the intersection of Franklin Ave. and Mendez Street, it collided with an 18-wheel truck, causing a massive crash.  MATTHEWS was caught inside the stolen truck wearing the carjacking victim’s jacket and carrying the victim’s wallet.  Police also located a semi-automatic firearm on the driver’s side floorboard of the truck.  Officers then noted that MATTHEWS was wearing the same distinctive clothing that the perpetrator had been wearing in the pre-carjacking surveillance footage.

To prove that MATTHEWS was an Armed Career Criminal, prosecutors proved at a sentencing hearing that MATTHEWS committed an armed carjacking on May 16, 2022 in the 500 block of South White Street.  Additionally, prosecutors proved that MATTHEWS also committed an armed carjacking on May 18, 2022 at 12:45pm in the 2600 block of Canal Blvd, and, later that day, an armed robbery in the 1000 Block of Ursuline Street.

A review of MATTHEWS criminal history revealed that on June 3, 2023, MATTHEWS pled guilty in Criminal District Court to all three of these robbery offenses and to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Although sentenced to serve 5 years in the Louisiana Department of Corrections, MATTHEWS did not actually serve the full five years, as he was arrested on this latest carjacking on April 3, 2024.

Based on his current  conviction, MATTHEWS now faces a statutory sentence of up to 15 years for the Carjacking offense, not less than 7 years, and up to life imprisonment for Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence.  Any sentence imposed on this count will have to be served consecutively to any other sentence.  He also faces a sentence of not less than 15 years, and up to life, for being an Armed Career Criminal.  In total, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 22 years to life in prison. He will be formally sentenced on November 5, 2025, by United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (A.T.F.), the New Orleans Police Department, and the Levee Board Police.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime 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 – On May 22, 2025, a federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment against five Chinese nationals, three of whom were illegally residing in the United States, as well as a U.S. citizen, on racketeering and drug charges, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson.  The indictment was unsealed on June 4, 2025.  Charged in the indictment were HANJIE WU, age 25, from China, YILEI ZHOU, age 35, from China, and ZIHANG ZENG, age 24,from China, LIKE CHEN, age 34, a naturalized U.S. citizen from China, WEI BIN CHEN, age 34, a lawful permanent U.S. resident from China, and AARON STEELE, age 45, from Hattiesburg, Mississippi.

According to court documents, WU, ZHOU, STEELE, WEI BIN CHIN, LIKE CHEN and ZENG were indicted for conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, a mixture and substance containing one hundred (100) kilograms or more of a detectable amount of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846.  WU and STEELE were also indicted for traveling between Texas, Louisiana and Mississippi with the intent to promote, manage, establish, carry on and facilitate the unlawful activity of conspiring to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, marijuana, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).

If convicted of the drug conspiracy count, WU, ZHOU, STEELE, WEI BIN CHIN, LIKE CHEN and ZENG face a minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, up to a maximum term of imprisonment of forty (40) years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four (4) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  For the interstate travel in aid of racketeering count, WU and STEELE face a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, Forrest County Mississippi Sheriff’s Office, and the Picayune, Mississippi Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys André Jones and Nolan D. Paige of the Narcotics Unit.

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 BELINDA MARTIN, age 50, of New Orleans, was charged in a bill of information on June 23, 2025, for access device fraud.

According to court documents, between 2014 and 2023, BELINDA MARTIN, allegedly embezzled money and things of value in excess of $1,000 from her employer through the fraudulent use of her company’s access device accounts.

The maximum penalty for the offense is ten years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that the bill of information 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JAMES BLOCKER (“JAMES BLOCKER”), a California resident, pled guilty on June 12, 2025, to the indictment charging him with conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371 (Count 1), and interstate transportation of stolen goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2314 (Count 2).

According to the indictment, JAMES BLOCKER, and others, conspired to transport cigarettes that were stolen during a burglary at the Imperial Trading Company in New Orleans on November 21, 2024.  The group then traveled out of state, before being apprehended in Fort Stockton, Texas the following day while in possession of the cigarettes.  The group was further implicated in similar burglaries in North Carolina and Texas in February of 2024.

For Count 1, JAMES 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, JAMES 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; the Jefferson Parish Sherriff’s Office, the Knightdale Police Department, the Atlanta Police Department, the Rockmart Police Department, the 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, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on June 18, 2025, JENARD WALTON aka Janard Walton (“WALTON”), age 41, of New Orleans, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to 37 months imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms.  Following imprisonment, walton will be placed on supervised release for three (3) years.

According to court records, on March 19, 2024, law enforcement executed a federal search warrant at WALTON’s residence.  During the search, agents found a Springfield, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol, in a kitchen cabinet wrapped in a towel.  In the kitchen, they also found approximately one and a half pounds of marijuana.  Additionally, the agents located a hidden compartment under a set of stairs leading to the second story.  In this hidden compartment, they found a Smith and Wesson, .40 caliber pistol, and approximately $37,941 of U.S. currency.  The Smith & Wesson firearm was confirmed to have been stolen.  A records check showed that WALTON was a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms.  Court records confirmed that WALTON had at least five felony convictions, including a prior federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

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 Slidell Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that IRVIN C. FRANCOIS, III (“FRANCOIS”), age 53, of New Orleans, was indicted on June 20, 2025 for making false statements, and money laundering, related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

On March 27, 2020, the President of the United States signed into law the CARES Act, which provided emergency assistance, administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), to small business owners affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.  One of the  primary sources of funding for small businesses was the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP).         

According to the charging documents, or about March 24, 2021, FRANCOIS, on behalf of a business that he owned, made false statements to an approved lender to obtain approximately $144,790 for a PPP loan.  FRANCOIS then committed money laundering by using these ill-gotten funds to buy an automobile from a dealership in Kenner, Louisiana.

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.  If found guilty, FRANCOIS faces up to five years in prison for the false statement count and up to ten years in prison for the money laundering count.  All of the counts include up to $250,000 in fines, up to three years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

This case was investigated by an agent assigned to the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force.  The PRAC was established to serve the American public by promoting transparency and facilitating coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response.  The PRAC’s 21 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.  The PRAC Fraud Task Force brings together agents from 15 Inspectors General to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program.  Task force agents who are detailed to the PRAC receive expanded authority to investigate pandemic fraud as well as tools and training to support their investigations.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General (a member of the PRAC) and the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that CARLOS RENE MEDINA-AYALA (“MEDINA-AYALA”), age 48, a native of Honduras, was indicted on June 20, 2025 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the indictment, on June 2, 2025, MEDINA-AYALA was found to have reentered the United States after being previously deported on or about November 7, 2013.  For this offense, MEDINA-AYALA faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman 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, LA – JAEQUAN BAILEY, (“BAILEY”), age 26, of Elmwood, Louisiana was charged on June 20, 2025, in a three-count indictment, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson.  Counts 1, 2, and 3 charged him with being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to the indictment, BAILEY possessed firearms and ammunition on April 19, 2022, September 26, 2024, and November 26, 2024.  BAILEY was prohibited from possessing firearms due to his prior felony conviction.

If convicted, BAILEY faces up to 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release for each of Counts 1, 2, and 3.  Additionally, BAILEY is required to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.

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

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).

The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crimes Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JELISSA LACOUR (“LACOUR”), age 36, a resident of Jefferson Parish, was indicted on June 20, 2025 with two counts of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

One wire fraud count alleged that LACOUR obtained numerous Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans using falsified tax forms.  The other wire fraud count alleged that LACOUR obtained Emergency Rental Assistance Program (ERAP) funds in the names of numerous purported renters.  According to the indictment, in some instances, the PPP and ERAP applications were for accomplices who sought to benefit from the fraudulent applications, while in other instances, LACOUR misused others’ identities to obtain payments in their names.  The aggravated identity theft charges relate to the use of other persons’ identities.

If convicted, 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.

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.

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 – KIANNA SCOTT (“SCOTT”), age 24, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on June 10, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to use of a communication facility in causing, and, the distribution, and possession with intent to distribute, fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b). SCOTT was sentenced to five years probation and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, SCOTT used a telephone to assist another known individual in the distribution, and possession with intent to distribute, narcotics within the Eastern District of Louisiana.

This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office, and assisted by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Saint Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Saint John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Harahan Police Department.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LAURENCIO OLVERA-TERRAZAS (“OLVERA-TERRAZAS”)age 54, a native of Mexico, was sentenced on June 10, 2025, by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry, after previously pleading guilty to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M.Simpson.

OLVERA-TERRAZAS was sentenced a term of time served and to 2 years of supervised release.  Judge Guidry also ordered that OLVERA-TERRAZAS pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on or about August 22, 2024, OLVERA-TERRAZAS re-entered the United States after being previously deported on September 20, 1997 and March 12, 2007.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that ROY ROBINSON (“ROBINSON”), age 35, a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 10, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Brandon Long to Title 27, U.S.C. Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, by conspiring to distribute, and possessing with the intent to distribute, five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, as well as to violating Title 18, U.S.C. Section 92a(c)(1)(A) by possessing a firearm to further this drug trafficking conspiracy. Judge Long scheduled sentencing for September 16, 2025.

At sentencing, ROBINSON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release as to Count 1, and a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and up to life imprisonment, which must run consecutive to Count 1, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release, as to Count 2.  There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.

According to court records, law enforcement in Thibodaux, Louisiana observed ROBINSON conduct what they believed was a drug transaction in a parking lot.  Specifically, law enforcement observed ROBINSON place two bags inside the vehicle of the individual he met while receiving a shoe box in return.  After leaving the parking lot, law enforcement observed that the vehicle ROBINSON drove did not have a license plate.  After a traffic stop, officers located a firearm, a Smith & Wesson 9-millimeter semiautomatic handgun, along with a large amount of cash in ROBINSON’S vehicle.  Officers also followed the vehicle into which ROBINSON placed the bags, and after the execution of a search warrant, they located over 6,000 grams of methamphetamine within the bags.

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana State Police, Thibodaux Police Department, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.  This case 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 Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at http://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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, on June 13, 2025, KENTRELL MAHONEY SCOTT (“SCOTT”), age 39, a resident of St. Tammany Parish, was charged, via bill of information, with one count of bribery of a  public official, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 201, and two counts of wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.

According to the charging document, SCOTT was a public official who, directly or indirectly, accepted something of value in return for being induced to do an act, and omit to do an act in violation of his official duty, and in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 201(b)(2).  Specifically, in exchange for a $300 payment that he directly and corruptly sought and accepted from a supervisee under his charge, SCOTT agreed to assist a supervisee in violating the terms of supervision by obscuring the detection of the supervisee’s GPS monitoring.    

Additionally, SCOTT was also charged with wire fraud, for advertising and selling unlawful brake tags and temp tags.  SCOTT, who was not licensed or approved by the City of New Orleans or the State of Louisiana, advertised the sale of brake tags and temp tags on Facebook and encouraged interested parties to message him. Thereafter, SCOTT met the purchasers in person to complete the transaction.

Finally, SCOTT was charged with a second act of wire fraud, for making false and fraudulent submissions to the Louisiana Workforce Commission for the CARES Act Funded Unemployment Insurance Program. Specifically, in order to both remain eligible for unemployment insurance and to maximize the unemployment insurance benefits he received, SCOTT underreported his wages and later, falsely certified that he was unemployed. 

If convicted of the bribery charge, SCOTT faces up to 15 years in prison, up to 3 years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  As to each of the wire fraud counts, SCOTT faces up to 20 years in prison, up to 3 years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that a bill of information 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution. 

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that DAMERON CARMON (“CARMON”), age 45, of New Orleans, pled guilty on June 12, 2025 to Conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, a quantity of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846 before U.S. District Judge Carl Barbier.  Judge Barbier scheduled sentencing for September 25, 2025. At sentencing CARMON faces up to twenty years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release.  There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, CARMON conspired with others to maintain multiple residences on Harmony Street as drug-involved premises where fentanyl and heroin were trafficked.  CARMON acted as security, and assisted others in the distribution of fentanyl and heroin from these residences.  He was arrested by law enforcement as he attempted to flee one of these residences.  Firearms and fentanyl were later located in the residence from which CARMON fled.

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, Drug Enforcement Administration, New Orleans Police Department, and Louisiana State Police.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN).  NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms.  NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles.  For more information on NIBIN, visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballisticinformation-network-nibin.

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.  For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –NOLAN LONG (“LONG”), age 33, pleaded guilty on June 17, 2025 before U.S. District Judge Darryl J. Papillion to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, on January 10, 2023, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) detectives observed a group of individuals, including LONG, exhibiting signs that they were carrying concealed firearms.  When marked NOPD units arrived in the area to investigate, LONG fled on foot and discarded a loaded Walther P22, .22 caliber pistol before being apprehended.  LONG is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his previous  felony convictions for simple robbery and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

LONG faces up to 15 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, 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.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –KYLE CONERLY, age 32, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on June 18, 2025 before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance to 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, on November 20, 2023, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers were conducting surveillance on a residence in the Hollygrove neighborhood.  When officers moved in to make arrests, CONERLY ran to the backyard of the residence and threw a loaded handgun over the fence.  CONERLY is prohibited from possessing a handgun because of prior convictions for attempted second degree murder and manslaughter in Orleans Parish.

CONERLY faces up to 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, 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.

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 – EDGARDO AMADOR-RODRIGUEZ (“AMADOR-RODRIGUEZ”), age 29, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on June 17, 2025,  for re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.  AMADOR-RODRIGUEZ was sentenced to 6 months in federal prison.

According to court documents, AMADOR-RODRIGUEZ reentered the United States after he was previously deported on June 8, 2018.  The Pacific Enforcement Response Center issued a detainer on December 22,2024, after AMADOR-RODRIGUEZ, was booked into Orleans Justice Center after being arrested for several state charges and the Pacific Enforcement Response Center issued a detainer on March 5,2025, after the subject was arrested and booked into Jefferson Parish on municipal and traffic attachments.

On March 7, 2025, Enforcement and Removal Operations New Orleans picked up AMADOR-RODRIGUEZ after he was released from local custody and turned over to immigration on the active detainer.  Department of Homeland Security record checks reflect that AMADOR-RODRIGUEZ was last deported on June 8, 2018, to Honduras.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Orleans 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.

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 – ActingU.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that HIBIS TURCIO-SANCHEZ (“TURCIO-SANCHEZ”), age 45, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on June 17, 2025, for re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a) and (b)(1).

According to court documents, TURCIO-SANCHEZ re-entered the United States after he was previously deported on October 17, 2016.

TURCIO-SANCHEZ was sentenced to time served before United States District Judge Susie Morgan.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. 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 ROSSEL GEOVANNY RECINOS ARITA (“ARITA”), age 30, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on June 17, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, ARITA, a Honduran national, was found in St. Tammany Parish on or around February 24, 2025. He had previously been deported to Honduras on June 19, 2018.

ARITA was sentenced by United States District Judge Susie Morgan to time served.

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 Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEAN DEAN (“DEAN”), a/k/a “Lips,” age 41, of New Orleans, was sentenced on June 10, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry to 322 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to Counts 2 through 4 of the superseding indictment pending against him.  Judge Guidry ordered that DEAN be placed on supervised release for five (5) years following his release from imprisonment and also ordered DEAN to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Count 2 charged DEAN with possession with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1),(b)(1)(A). Count 3 charged DEAN with 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).  Count 4 charged DEAN with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).

On June 24, 2022, in the early morning hours, members of the Federal Bureau of Investigation New Orleans Gang Task Force (“NOGTF”) conducted a court ordered search at DEAN’s residence in New Orleans.  Among the evidentiary items located during the search, were four (4) firearms and approximately 862 grams of fentanyl, described more particularly below:

1. An American Tactical .223/5.56 AR pistol, with a loaded extended magazine containing approximately forty live .223 rounds, seized from the laundry room of the residence.
   1. An American tactical .223/5.56 AR pistol, containing a live round in the chamber, and a loaded magazine containing approximately twenty-eight live .223 rounds, seized from the laundry room of the residence.
   2. A Glock 43, nine-millimeter handgun, containing a live nine- millimeter round in the chamber, and a loaded magazine containing approximately seven live rounds, seized from the master bedroom closet.
   3. A Glock 17, nine- millimeter handgun, containing a live nine- millimeter round in the chamber, and a loaded extended magazine containing approximately thirty live rounds, seized from the attic.
   4. Approximately 800 grams of fentanyl was seized from both the attic, and the master bedroom.

In addition to the fentanyl, members of the NOGTF seized mannitol, digital scales and packaging material, which DEAN was using to process and package fentanyl for distribution.  DEAN admitted that all of the drugs and guns were his.

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 track 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.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LEESSA AUGUSTINE (“AUGUSTINE”) age 46, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on June 10, 2025, to several charges related to her involvement in fraud schemes while employed as a Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans (“S&WB”) Senior Special Agent.  In this role, AUGUSTINE was tasked with investigating the alleged misconduct of other Sewerage & Water Board employees.

According to court records, in one scheme, AUGUSTINE, who also served as a New Orleans Police Department reserve officer, billed a police detail customer for hours not actually worked.  During some of the times AUGUSTINE was supposed to be working the police detail for the Downtown Development District, she used her S&WB-issued computer to conduct a second fraud scheme, that involved obtaining a mortgage loan and federally funded assistance for low-income homebuyers.  In that home-purchase scheme, AUGUSTINE created fake documents, including a fake W-2 form, fake pay stubs, and fake bank statements. In a third scheme, AUGUSTINE obtained federally funded unemployment benefits by concealing her Senior Special Agent income.  Finally, in a fourth scheme, AUGUSTINE obtained federally funded emergency rental assistance from the City of New Orleans, by submitting a fake lease and a termination letter from a fictitious employer. At various times during the schemes, AUGUSTINE provided her S&WB-issued cellphone number as a contact number for three different persons she impersonated.  As a result of her fraud schemes, AUGUSTINE pled guilty to three counts of wire fraud.  She also pled guilty to one count of making false statements, for lying to investigators. 

The wire fraud charges are each punishable by up to 30 years’ imprisonment, which may be followed by up to five years of supervised release.  The false statement charge is punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment, which may be followed by up to three years of supervised release.  Each count may also include a fine of up to $250,000 and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  Sentencing is set for September 16, 2025.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson expressed his appreciation for the valuable assistance and contributions of the New Orleans Office of Inspector General, and the New Orleans Police Department in connection with this case.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the Office of Inspector General - U.S. Department of Labor, and the Office of Inspector General – U.S. Department of Homeland Security.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MIGUEL ANGEL SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ (“SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ”) age 37, pled guilty on June 12, 2025, before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to four counts of an indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute cocaine (Count 1), possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (Count 2), possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon (Count 3), and reentry of a removed alien (Count 4), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C); Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(8), and 924(c); and Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a), and 1326(b)(2), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to the indictment, on or about January 29, 2025, SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ  possessed a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine; possessed a firearm, a Taurus Model G2C, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; knowingly, unlawfully possessed a firearm, having been previously convicted of a felony in the State of Mississippi, and had been officially deported and removed from the United States on or about July 9, 2010.

For Count 1, SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ  faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $1,000,000, and at least three (3) years’ supervised release.  For Count 2, SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ faces a minimum of five (5) years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence of imprisonment, and/or a fine of $250,000, and up to five (5) years’ supervised release.  For Count 3, SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ faces up to fifteen (15) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $250,000, and up to three (3) years’ supervised release.  For Count 4, SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three (3) years’ supervised release.  As to each count, SOLORZANO-DOMINGUEZ also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, United States Border Patrol, Kenner Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Gretna Major Crimes Task Force.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

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 United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JAMAR HOWARD (“HOWARD”), age 38, and CHARENYIA CARMOUCHE (“CARMOUCHE”), age 31 of Slidell, were charged in a recently unsealed twelve-count indictment on May 30, 2025 with conspiracy to commit offenses, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, False Statement in Loan Application, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1014, Money Laundering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1957, and Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Carfentanil, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846.

According to the indictment, HOWARD and CARMOUCHE submitted loan applications to various lenders and other entities between 2023 and 2024.  In support of the loan applications, HOWARD and CARMOUCHE submitted false tax documents.  HOWARD submitted altered bank statements in support of loan applications in his name and in the name of his business, Marathon Expedited Trucking.  Once HOWARD and CARMOUCHE obtained approval of the loan applications, the funds from various financial institutions were deposited into bank accounts held by HOWARD and CARMOUCHE.  HOWARD and CARMOUCHE used the loan proceeds for their personal use and enrichment.

In addition, CARMOUCHE did knowingly engage and attempt to engage in monetary transactions in criminally derived property of a value greater than $10,000, such property having been derived from a specified unlawful activity.

Finally, according to court records, beginning on a date unknown, but at least by March 26, 2024, and continuing until the date of the indictment, in the Eastern District of Louisiana and elsewhere, HOWARD knowingly and intentionally conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of carfentanil, a Schedule II controlled substance and fentanyl analogue.

If convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Offenses, HOWARD and CARMOUCHE face a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  If convicted of Wire Fraud, HOWARD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted of False Statement in Loan Application, HOWARD and CARMOUCHE face a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty years, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  If convicted of Money Laundering, CARMOUCHE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  If convicted of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute carfentanil, HOWARD faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

The defendants also face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Briana Williams of the Narcotics Unit.

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 United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JULIO CESAR DELGADO (“DELGADO”), age 39, formerly a resident of Brownsville, Texas pled guilty on June 5, 2025, before United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, 846; and Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3).

The charge of Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and Distribute Cocaine, now carries a mandatory term of imprisonment of not less than 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $8,000,000 and a term of supervised release of at least 8 years.  Interstate Travel in Aid of Racketeering carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 5 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Each offense also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

Sentencing will occur on October 9, 2025.

Court documents reflect that the Defendant was part of a sophisticated conspiracy that smuggled cocaine from Mexico into the United States at Brownsville, Texas and transported it to customers in Texas, Louisiana, Florida and Michigan.  DELGADO, and others, would also collect payment from the customers.  During the investigation, the Louisiana State Police seized approximately $31,000 from DELGADO and another individual during a traffic stop.  The money was payment received for cocaine delivered to a trafficker in Michigan.  This money is subject to forfeiture.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is assigned the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that DERRICK HINES, age 52, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on June 5, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown, to being a felon in possession of a firearm.  Sentencing is set for October 9, 2025.

According to court documents, on September 28, 2023, while investigating a shooting, New Orleans Police Department officers discovered that DERRICK HINES illegally possessed a firearm after previously being convicted of a felony.

The maximum penalty for this firearm offense is fifteen years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of one hundred dollars.

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 New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ODINE DOMINICK (“DOMINICK”), age 34, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on June 10, 2025, the morning his jury trial was set to begin, before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk to possession with the intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and a quantity of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(D); 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); and 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, in the fall of 2023, law enforcement officers observed a photograph of DOMINICK with a rifle magazine in his waistband and a video of DOMINICK inside of a stolen car with a handgun.  On December 14, 2023, the New Orleans Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation executed a search warrant at DOMINICK’s residence and found over 100 grams of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin; vacuum sealed bags of marijuana weighing over a kilogram; eight digital scales; drug trafficking supplies; 400 rounds of various calibers of ammunition; and a loaded Glock Model 23 .40 caliber handgun with an extended magazine.

Prior to his most recent arrest, DOMINICK had already been convicted of conspiracy to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, attempted possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in Orleans Parish, and being a felon in possesion of a firearm, in St. Bernard Parish.

Because of his prior federal drug trafficking conviction, DOMINICK was charged with a sentencing enhancement.  As to Count 1, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, up to an $8,000,000 fine, and at least eight years of supervised release.  As to Count 2, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.  As to Count 3, he faces up to 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three 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.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that ERIC CHARLES FULLER (“FULLER”), age 55, from Springfield, Missouri, was sentenced on June 10, 2025 by United States District Judge Greg Gerard Guidry to 57 months in prison, after previously pleading guilty to interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(b).  Additionally, Judge Guidry ordered FULLER to serve five (5) years of supervised release after imprisonment, register as a sex offender, and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the court documents, on or about December 7, 2023, law enforcement personnel, operating online in an undercover capacity and pretending to be a twenty-nine-year-old mother with a twelve-year-old daughter, met FULLER on a social network and messaging application.  Over approximately the next month, on numerous occasions FULLER discussed his interest in engaging in various sexual acts with the “mother” and daughter,” culminating in FULLER making arrangements to travel from his residence in Springfield, Missouri, to the New Orleans area to engage in sexual contact, individually and collectively, with the “mother” and “daughter.”  During his conversation FULLER described the contact he anticipated as “highly taboo,” “highly illegal,” “risky,” “not the worst way to be,” and “a way to have a happier life.”  FULLER left Springfield, in his red, 2002 Chevrolet Prism, on about January 11, 2024, and arrived at a predetermined location in Mandeville, Louisiana on Friday, January 12, 2024, for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with the individual FULLER believed to be a twelve-year-old female.

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.

Acting 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, was in charge of the prosecution.