Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JAMES MAGEE (“MAGEE”), age 51 of Mississippi, pleaded guilty on May 8, 2025 to assaulting his co-worker on an oil platform, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 113(a)(4).

According to court documents, MAGEE attacked a co-worker while the two men were working.  MAGEE punched and kicked the victim, before the two men could be broken up.  The victim was flown by helicopter to a hospital in Morgan City where he was treated for his injuries, including orbital fractures around his eye, bruising to his left eye socket, bruising to his upper side torso, and a chipped tooth.

MAGEE faces a maximum penalty of one year of imprisonment, up to one year of supervised release, a fine of up to $100,000, and a mandatory $25 special assessment fee.

The case was investigated by the Coast Guard Investigative Services.  Assistant United States Attorney Christine Calogero and Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

Correction: NEW ORLEANS RESIDENT GUILTY OF CARES ACT FRAUD.                                                                                                                                             JARROW also faces up to ten years in prison for the theft of government funds count.

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that BRANDON JARROW (“JARROW”) (aka Brandi Jarrow), age 33, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on May 8, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to theft of government funds and to making false statements, 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.  The two primary sources of funding for small businesses were the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program.         

According to the charging documents, on or about June 20, 2020, JARROW, on behalf of a business, submitted a false application for a EIDL to the SBA.  This resulted in a theft of government funds in the amount of $95,000.  On or about February 4, 2021, JARROW made false statements to an approved lender for another sham business to obtain a $20,833 PPP loan.

Sentencing will be on August 13, 2025.  At sentencing, JARROW faces up to five years in prison for the false statement counts.  She also faces up to ten years in prison for the theft of government funds count.  All of the counts carry a penalty of 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.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration - Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

*     *    *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that RACHEL WATTS SANDERS (“SANDERS”), age 40, of Loranger, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on May 8, 2025 to wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, and mail theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708.

According to court documents, SANDERS admitted stealing over forty (40) checks from the U.S. mail, forging endorsements on the stolen checks, and then depositing the checks into her own bank account.

SANDERS faces a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years of imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 for wire fraud; and a maximum penalty of five (5) years of imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.00 for the theft of mail.  SANDERS also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Christine Calogero and Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

Note: See superseding indictment here.

WASHINGTON — Two Honduran men were sentenced today to three years in prison for their roles in a scheme to illegally smuggle Honduran nationals into the United States.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, for almost a year, Hennessy Devon Cooper Zelaya, 29, and Rudy Jackson Hernandez, 38, both of Utila, Honduras, conspired with at least six others to bring Honduran nationals from Honduras to the United States via two vessels, the Masita III and the M/V Pop. The vessels sailed from Utila, Honduras to Louisiana. The aliens and/or their family members paid thousands of dollars to be brought illegally into the United States by boat. Upon arrival, the aliens were picked up by co-conspirators and driven further into the United States. The co-conspirators then placed some of the aliens in jobs at U.S. factories and other businesses knowing that the aliens lacked authorization to enter, remain, or work in the United States. The defendants were part of the vessels’ crew on multiple voyages.

In February 2022, the defendants attempted to illegally bring 23 Honduran nationals from Utila, Honduras, to Cocodrie, Louisiana, aboard the M/V Pop, a 65’ sportfishing vessel. During the voyage, the M/V Pop developed engine trouble and lost power. The co-conspirators then chartered a boat to bring fuel to the disabled vessel so that it could complete its journey to the United States. Before the chartered boat reached the disabled vessel, the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted the vessel approximately 75 miles off the coast of Louisiana and towed it to shore. Inside the vessel, law enforcement officers also found 24 kilograms of cocaine.

Cooper Zelaya and Jackson Hernandez were convicted after trial of conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain and attempting to bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain.

The lead defendant in the case, Carl Allison, previously pleaded guilty in December 2023 to conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for financial gain and conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. Three additional co-conspirators, all Honduran nationals, pleaded guilty last year for their roles in the scheme: Darrel Martinez, 41, and Josue Flores-Villeda, 36, pleaded guilty to the same charges as Allison; and Lenord Cooper, 40, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to aid and assist aliens to enter the United States unlawfully and attempting to bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain. A fifth man, Honduran national Olvin Javier Velasquez Maldonado, was extradited from Honduras in April and is charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine. Maldonado’s trial is scheduled for June 16. An indictment is merely an allegation, and Maldonado is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.

The HSI Houma, Louisiana Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the HSI Pittsburgh Field Office, HSI Atlanta Field Office, and Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The HSI Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C., U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s Air and Marine Operations, Louisiana State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, North Huntington Township Police, and Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance.

Deputy Chief Rami Badawy of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice for the Eastern District of Louisiana prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) and the Criminal Division’s Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training (OPDAT) in Honduras provided assistance.

The sentencings are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, and Colombia that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the border. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by HRSP and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, the Office of Enforcement Operations, OIA, and OPDAT, among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 365 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 334 U.S. convictions; more than 281 significant jail sentences imposed; and substantial seizures and forfeitures of assets and contraband including millions of dollars in cash, real property, vehicles, firearms and ammunition, and drugs.

This case is also supported by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) and the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States 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 ECT program is a partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI and focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT also coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

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 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 and Project Safe Neighborhood.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that SHANE BOLDEN (“BOLDEN”), age 36, was sentenced on April 30, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk to eighty-seven (87) months in prison followed by three (3) years of supervised release, along with a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D), and to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) executed a search warrant at BOLDEN’s residence on April 8, 2024.  NOPD recovered over a pound of marijuana that BOLDEN intended to sell, and eight firearms that belonged to BOLDEN: a Glock Model 33, .357 caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 15 armor-piercing rounds; a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 22 hollow point rounds; a Zastava Arms Model PAP M85 NP, 5.56 millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol; a Stag Arms Model Stag-15, multi-caliber semi-automatic pistol; a Romarm/Cugir Model Mini Draco, 7.62 millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 30 rounds; a Glock Model 19x, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with 16 red-tip hollow point rounds; a Diamondback Arms Model DB380, .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol, loaded with eight rounds; and a stolen Glock Model 22, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol.  BOLDEN is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of prior felony convictions, including a conviction for possession with intent to distribute marijuana.  NOPD also recovered over $108,000 in cash belonging to BOLDEN.  Pursuant to a plea agreement, BOLDEN agreed to forfeit all the firearms and cash to the United States government.

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, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that on April 29, 2025, YOLANDA TILLMAN, (“TILLMAN”), age 42, of Des Allemands, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long to 108 months imprisonment after  previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, over 500 grams of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846.  TILLMAN was also sentenced to four (4) years of supervised release after release from prison, as well as a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to court records, beginning on a time unknown, but continuing until at least June 5, 2024, TILLMAN, and others, conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, cocaine throughout Lafourche and Terrebonne Parish, within the Eastern District of Louisiana.  The conspiracy involved obtaining narcotics from Houston, Texas and transporting them to Thibodaux, Louisiana.  The conspiracy was carried out through wire and electronic communications, and the use of multiple vehicles.  TILLMAN helped further this drug-trafficking conspiracy by using her bank account to help other co-conspirators move money to other drug traffickers and drug couriers.

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.

Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, the Thibodaux Police Department, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

*        *       *

NEW ORLEANS - Today, the Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Restore Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators.  The operation resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sexual abuse offenders in the nationwide crackdown.  The coordinated effort was executed over the course of five days by all 55 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section in the Department’s Criminal Division, and United States Attorney’s Offices around the country.

“The Department of Justice will never stop fighting to protect victims — especially child victims — and we will not rest until we hunt down, arrest, and prosecute every child predator who preys on the most vulnerable among us,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “I am grateful to the FBI and their state and local partners for their incredible work in Operation Restore Justice and have directed my prosecutors not to negotiate.”

“Every child deserves to grow up free from fear and exploitation, and the FBI will continue to be relentless in our pursuit of those who exploit the most vulnerable among us,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Restore Justice proves that no predator is out of reach and no child will be forgotten. By leveraging the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state and local partners, we’re sending a clear message: there is no place to hide for those who prey on children.”

“This joint operation signals our unrelenting effort to identify and prosecute those individuals responsible for the sexual exploitation of our nation’s youth,” stated Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson.  “Together with our law enforcement partners, our office stands ready and committed to utilizing our collective resources to bring justice to both the victims and the perpetrators of these crimes.”

“The FBI is unwavering in its fight to protect children,” said Jonathan Tapp, Special Agent in Charge of FBI New Orleans. “Each arrest is a powerful testament to the tireless efforts of the FBI and our dedicated law enforcement partners to protect the most vulnerable among us. It reaffirms the FBI’s commitment to pursuing justice for victims and hold predators accountable.”

In the Eastern District of Louisiana, Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that Lance Rotolo, Jr. (“Rotolo”), age 19, a resident of Harvey, Louisiana, was indicted on May 2, 2025 on five counts including, sexual exploitation of children, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a) (Counts 1 and 2), distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(2) (Count 3), receiving CSAM, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(2) (Count 4), and transmitting extortionate interstate communications, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(d) (Count 5).

According to the indictment, on or about December 19, 2024, Rotolo produced, and attempted to produce, a visual depiction of a female born in June 2011 (Victim 1) engaging in sexually explicit conduct.  Additionally, between on or about January 12, 2025, and on or about February 17, 2025, Rotolo produced and attempted to produce a visual depiction of a female born in July 2009 (Victim 2) engaging in sexually explicit conduct.  Rotolo also distributed visual depictions of minors, including children as young as approximately less than one (1) year old, engaging in sexually explicit conduct, such as a video Rotolo distributed on or about February 28, 2025.  Rotolo also received visual depictions of minors as young as less than one (1) year old engaging in sexually explicit conduct, including a video he received on or about November 16, 2024.  Finally, Rotolo sent Victim 2 messages threatening that he would send sexually explicit content Victim 2 had previously sent him, to Victim 2’s friends and family, unless Victim 2 continued to send Rotolo sexually explicit visual depictions.

Rotolo faces a mandatory minimum of fifteen (15) years in prison and a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty (30) years as to each of Counts 1 and 2.  He faces a mandatory minimum of five (5) years in prison and a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years as to each of Counts 3 and 4.  He faces up to two (2) years in prison as to Count 5.  Rotolo further faces at least five years, and up to a lifetime, of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee, for each count. He may also be required to register as a sex offender.

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, is in charge of the prosecution.

Others arrested around the country are alleged to have committed various crimes including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material, online enticement and transportation of minors, and child sex trafficking. In Minneapolis, for example, a state trooper and Army Reservist was arrested for allegedly producing child sexual abuse material while wearing his uniforms. In Norfolk, VA, an illegal alien from Mexico is accused of transporting a minor across state lines for sex. In Washington, D.C., a former Metropolitan Police Department Police Officer was arrested for allegedly trafficking minor victims.

In many cases, parental vigilance and community outreach efforts played a critical role in bringing these offenders to justice. For example, a California man was arrested about eight hours after a young victim bravely came forward and disclosed their abuse to FBI agents after an online safety presentation at a school near Albany, N.Y.

This effort follows the Department’s observance of National Child Abuse Prevention Month in April, and underscores the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and raising awareness about the dangers they face. While the Department, including the FBI, investigates and prosecutes these crimes every day, April serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of preventing these crimes, seeking justice for victims, and raising awareness through community education.

The Justice Department is committed to combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.

The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

Other online resources:

Electronic Press Kit

Violent Crimes Against Children

How we can help you: Parents and caregivers protecting your kids

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

                                                                       *   *   *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RANDY BROWN, JR (“BROWN”), age 31, a resident of Gretna, Louisiana, was sentenced to twenty-one (21) months’ imprisonment by United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance, after previously pleading guilty to the four-count indictment charging him with unlawful delay of U.S. Mail matter by a postal employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703(a) and theft of U.S. Mail matter by a postal employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.

According to court documents, between on or about July, 2022, through October 4, 2022, BROWN unlawfully secreted, detained, and delayed U.S. mail entrusted to him as a postal employee; and on September 26, 2022, September 27, 2022, and October 3, 2022, BROWN did knowingly embezzle, steal, abstract, and remove checks from U.S. mail entrusted to him as a postal employee.

In addition to his incarceration sentence, Judge Vance also sentenced BROWN to three (3) years of supervised release.  BROWN must additionally pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General and the Gretna Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crimes Unit.

*   *   *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SAUL MACEDO-RODRIGUEZ (“MACEDO-RODRIGUEZ”), age 38, a resident of Texas, was sentenced on April 30, 2025, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.  MACEDO-RODRIGUEZ was sentenced to one hundred twenty (120) months imprisonment, three (3) years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, MACEDO-RODRIGUEZ and other co-conspirators distributed multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin within the Eastern District of Louisiana.

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.

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

*        *        *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARNELL D. LEE (“LEE”), age 26, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on April 24, 2025 by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to thirty (30) months incarceration after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  LEE was also placed on supervised release for three (3) years following release from imprisonment and ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Further, Judge Fallon ordered that his term of imprisonment run consecutive to the prison terms imposed by the 24th Judicial Court, Jefferson Parish, Louisiana.

According to court records, on November 24, 2023, New Orleans Police Department Officers patrolling the 300 block of Bourbon Street observed LEE with what appeared to be a handgun concealed in the front waistband of his pants.  When NOPD Officers approached LEE to investigate , LEE fled but was quickly apprehended.  Officers recovered a Smith and Wesson Model SD9VE, nine-millimeter handgun that had fallen from his waistband.  LEE was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm due to his prior felony convictions.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigating this matter.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Irene M. Gonzalez of the General Crime Unit. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that SANTIAGO PUENTE-GARCIA (“PUENTE-GARCIA”), age 26, a native of Mexico, was sentenced on April 30, 2025 after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced PUENTE-GARCIAto an imprisonment term of time served , followed by one (1) year of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court records, PUENTE-GARCIA was previously removed from the United States on February 4, 2022.  He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on October 29, 2024.

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

                                          *  *   *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOSE GUADALUPE MUNOZ-PEREZ (“MUNOZ”), age 46, a native of Mexico, pleaded guilty on April 29, 2025 to illegally using a social security number to obtain a Louisiana driver’s license, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

MUNOZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  United States District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter set sentencing for June 5, 2025.  

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

The Social Security Administration confirmed that Social Security number was legitimately issued to an individual in Puerto Rico.  MUNOZ admitted that by applying for the renewal, he knowingly intended to deceive others, including employers, by falsely representing that the name and Social Security number had been assigned to him by the Commissioner of Social Security. 

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

                                          *  *   *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that DARWIN XAVIER GONZALEZ-MUNOZ (“GONZALEZ-MUNOZ”), age 30, pled guilty on April 30, 2025 to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the bill of information filed against him, GONZALEZ-MUNOZ reentered the United States after being previously deported on or about June 24, 2024. 

At sentencing, GONZALEZ-MUNOZ 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.

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 United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Enforcement Removal Operations.  Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

*   *   *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SONIA MILLER (“MILLER’), age 54, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on April 24, 2025, by United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown, after previously pleading guilty to theft of U.S. mail matter by a postal employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709(a).

MILLER was sentenced to three (3) years of probation.  Judge Brown also ordered that MILLER pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on or about March 14, 2023, MILLER unlawfully removed the contents of several parcels of mail entrusted to her as a postal employee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOE LYNN BEATTIE (“BEATTIE”), age 53, of Covington, Louisiana, was sentenced on April 29, 2025 by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 63 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release and payment of a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.  BEATTIE previously pleaded guilty on January 27, 2025, to a three (3) count indictment.  Count One charged him with being a Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).  Count Two charged him with possession of silencers, that were not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 5841.  Count Three charged him with possession of machineguns, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 922(o).

According to court records, federal agents received information that BEATTIE had received unlawfully imported firearm parts from China.  Thereafter, Special Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), as well as St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies, executed a search warrant at his residence.  The search yielded five (5) firearms, ammunition, sixteen (16) silencers, and five (5) machinegun conversion devices that turn firearms into fully automatic weapons.

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.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office,  in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. 

                                                                                                                                                           *   *   *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CHAD WOODS (“WOODS”), age 29, of New Orleans, was sentenced on April 24, 2025, after previously pleading guilty on December 19, 2024 to Conspiracy to Steal United States Mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371; Possession of a United States Postal Service (USPS) “arrow” key, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1704; and Possession of Stolen Mail that had been deposited into authorized mail receptacles, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708.

According to the indictment, on June 23, 2022, WOODS and another man stole mail from one location, and attempted to steal mail from another location, in Kenner, Louisiana.  The co-conspirator acted as the driver and WOODS used the USPS key to steal mail from the first location.  After a police chase, the pair were found in possession of 36 stolen checks, including one forged counterfeit check, six opened pieces of mail, and the USPS “arrow key” used to open the USPS mailboxes to steal the mail.

United States District Court Judge Eldon E. Fallon sentenced WOODS to five years of probation, with the special condition that he serve one year of home detention and pay a mandatory $300 special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is charge of the prosecution. 

                                                                                                                                                 *   *   *

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that DEVIN HILLIARD, age 49, of New Orleans, was sentenced on April 24, 2025, by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, for selling drugs and carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking offense.

According to court documents, DEVIN HILLIARD was engaged in drug trafficking in the New Orleans area and was apprehended carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking offense.

The defendant was sentenced to sixty-six (66) months of imprisonment followed by five (5) years of supervised release.  The defendant was also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of three hundred dollars.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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 United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced today that JORRY HARRISON (“HARRISON”), age 38, of Houma, Louisiana, pled guilty April 24, 2025 to Destruction of Mail, pursuant to Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703(a).

According to court documents, on or about October 25, 2023, HARRISON, while employed as a Postal Service employee, unlawfully opened packages, intended to be conveyed by mail, that had come into his possession while he worked on a Small Parcel and Bundle Sorter.  Sentencing in this case is set for July 31, 2025.

At sentencing, HARRISON faces up to five (5) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Christine Calogero and Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingU.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JESUS MALDONADO-LOPEZ (“MALDONADO-LOPEZ”), age 38, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced on April 15, 2025, for reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(b)(1).

According to court documents, MALDONADO-LOPEZ, an illegal alien with a prior felony conviction for transporting illegal aliens within the United States, was found in the New Orleans area on or around July 29, 2024.  MALDONADO-LOPEZ had previously been deported to Mexico on May 29, 2008.

MALDONADO-LOPEZ was sentenced to one year of probation by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey.

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

*   *   *

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Michael M. Simpson announced today that SOLVIN ARRIALO-ROMERO, a/k/a “ Solvin Regina Arriola-Romero, ” a/k/a “Solvin Romero,” (“ARRIALO-ROMERO”), age 28, was indicted on April 24, 2025 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), and failure to register, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1306(a).

According to the indictment, ARRIALO-ROMERO, reentered the United States after being previously deported on December 29, 2017.  If convicted, ARRIALO-ROMERO faces up to two years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee, for reentry of a removed alien.  ARRIALO-ROMERO faces up to 6 months imprisonment, up to $1,000 fine, up to one-year of supervised release, and a mandatory $10 special assessment fee for failure to register.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. 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 – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that BRYAN JAVIER PEREZ-ESPINOZA (“PEREZ-ESPINOZA”), age 33, a native of Honduras, was indicted on April 24, 2025, for reentry of removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

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

If convicted, PEREZ-ESPINOZA faces a maximum penalty of two years of 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.

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

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. Simpsonannounced that JHOSMY JOSUE PEREZ-ALVAREZ (“PEREZ-ALVAREZ”), age 24, a native of Honduras, was indicted on April 24, 2025, for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(5)(A) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, on or about January 2, 2025, PEREZ-ALVAREZ, an individual unlawfully present in the United States, was found in possession of a Glock nine-millimeter handgun.  He was arrested by the New Orleans Police Department and Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations officers, for violating immigration laws.

If convicted, PEREZ-ALVAREZ faces a maximum penalty of 15 years of 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.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpsonpraised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees 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 – JOSE MELVIN LOPEZ-LORENZO (“LOPEZ-LORENZO”), age 29, a native of Honduras, was indicted on April 24, 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.

According to the indictment, LOPEZ-LORENZO was found in the United States on April 10, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on July 26, 2018.

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

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

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

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 JUAN JOSUE CUEVAR-ALVARADO (“CUEVAR-ALVARADO “), 20, a native of Honduras, was indicted in a three-count superseding indictment on April 24, 2025, for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A) (Count 1), possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D) (Count 2); and possession of a firearm, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i) (Count 3).

According to the superseding indictment, on or about September 15, 2023, CUEVAR-ALVARADO, an alien present illegally in the United States, was found in possession of a .22 caliber revolver and a nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, as well as  a quantity of marijuana.

As to Count 1, CUEVAR-ALVARADO faces up to 15 years in prison, up to 3 years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine.  As to Count 2, he faces up to 5 years in prison, up to 3 years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine.  As to Count 3, he faces a prison term of 5 years consecutive to any other prison term he receives, up to 3years of supervised release, and up to a fine of $250,000.  Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. The defendant also faces deportation to his home country of Honduras after serving any prison sentence.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of United States Department of Homeland Security and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Spiro G. Latsis and Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

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

*       *      *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that KYLIN SEXTON (“SEXTON”), age 25, a resident of Hammond, pleaded guilty on April 24, 2025 to possession with the intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance, in violation of 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) and 841(b)(1)(D).  SEXTON faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to a $1,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of at least 3 years up to life, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown will sentence SEXTON on July 24, 2025.

On October 10, 2024, SEXTON pled guilty to being a felon in possession of ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).

According to court records, on May 18, 2022, the Ponchatoula Police Department received a complaint that SEXTON a co-conspirator, was in possession of a firearm.  Upon arrival at the scene, the officers observed the co-conspirator and SEXTON seated inside of a vehicle.  Officers approached the vehicle and ordered the co-conspirator to show his hands.  The co-conspirator ignored the officers’ commands and refused to place his hands behind his back when the officers attempted to remove him from the vehicle. After eventually removing the co-conspirator from the vehicle, officers observed a Glock Model 17, nine-millimeter handgun and extended magazine, loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition, tucked between the passenger seat and the center console.  The firearm had a machine gun conversion device, a “Glock switch,” attached to it.

The officers also observed a green backpack on the floorboard of the driver’s side where SEXTON was seated.  Upon opening the backpack, the officers located marijuana and cocaine hydrochloride.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Ponchatoula Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.

*  *   *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpsonannounced that EDGAR YOVANI PEREZ-GUTIERREZ ("PEREZ-GUTIERREZ"), age 27, a native of El Salvador, was indicted on April 24, 2025, for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(5)(A) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, on or about April 10, 2025, PEREZ-GUTIERREZ, an individual unlawfully present in the United States, was found in possession of a Glock handgun.  He was arrested by the New Orleans Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations officers, for violating immigration and federal gun control laws.

If convicted, PEREZ-GUTIERREZ faces a maximum penalty of 15 years of 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.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpsonpraised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America [link], 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 – FULGENCIO CARDENAS-RIVERA (“CARDENAS-RIVERA”), age 35, a resident of Houston, Texas, pled guilty on April 15, 2025, before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long to possession, with intent to distribute, five hundred (500) grams or more of cocaine, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, CARDENAS-RIVERA traveled into the Eastern District of Louisiana with approximately three kilograms of cocaine secreted in the trunk of the car he was driving, with the intent to distribute same.

CARDENAS-RIVERA faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years up to a maximum term of 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. 

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.

This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration – New Orleans Field Division Office and assisted by the United States Border Patrol, the Louisiana State Police, the Kenner Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JOSEPH AUTHEMENT (“AUTHEMENT”), age 25, of Hammond, LA, was sentenced on April 16, 2025, for Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1). 

According to court documents, on March 11, 2024, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”)  obtained a federal search warrant to seize AUTHEMENT’s Apple iPhone.  On March 12, 2024, HSI special agents (“SA”) located AUTHEMENT at his residence in Hammond, LA.  The agents seized AUTHEMENT’s iPhone and located images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors on that phone.  SAs later determined AUTHEMENT used a messaging application to download and purchase child sex abuse materials.

United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced AUTHEMENT to sixty (60) months imprisonment, supervised release for (10) ten years upon release from imprisonment and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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 like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Investigations Task Force.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

Correction:  Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, especially the New Orleans Gang Task Force, the New Orleans Police Department, Sulphur Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police, and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera, David Haller and Sarah Dawkins are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Simpson announced that TERRAN WILLIAMS, a/k/a “Funky” (“WILLIAMS”), TYRONE BOVIA, a/k/a “Sixx” (“BOVIA “), and JAVONTA DOLEMAN, a/k/a “Dutt” (“DOLEMAN “), all from New Orleans, were found guilty on April 21, 2025 after a two-week jury trial before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo.  They were found guilty of various violations, including RICO conspiracy, drug trafficking conspiracy, firearms conspiracy and Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering (VCAR) murder.

All three defendants were members of the Byrd Gang, which operated primarily out of the former Magnolia Housing Development, but additionally had ties to the Westbank.  Its members daily distributed drugs, including heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine and marijuana, and always possessed firearms. WILLIAMS, BOVIA and DOLEMAN participated in numerous drug trafficking activities and violent crimes and acted as gunmen for the Byrd Gang.

On January 31, 2017, Lawrence Williams, IV, and Wynston Jackson, a/k/a “Ghost,” were shot and killed by the three defendants shortly after leaving an Edna Karr High School basketball game.  Jackson was a member of the rival group, Ghost Gang, while Williams was an associate. Byrd Gang member, Briyan Love, attended the basketball game, and when she saw Jackson enter the auditorium, she communicated with Terran WILLIAMS and informed him that Jackson was at the game. WILLIAMS, BOVIA and DOLEMAN, and other Byrd Gang members and associates, drove across the river to Edna Karr School to kill rival Jackson.

When Williams and Jackson left the basketball game and sat in a car in front of the school,  WILLIAMS, BOVIA and DOLEMAN approached the car with two rifles and a handgun and unloaded a torrent of bullets.  Jackson attempted to return fire with his nine-millimeter handgun but was shot and killed on the scene.  Williams, who was also shot, later died at the hospital.

TYRONE BOVIA was also convicted for his role in another shooting that he committed in May 2017 at the Bernmas Apartments, where M.I., another Ghost Gang member, resided and was the intended target. BOVIA’S companion and fellow Byrd Gang member, Terrence Augustine, was shot and killed during this incident by return fire.  Byrd Gang member, James Alexander, has additionally pled guilty to this shooting.

During the trial, evidence was presented that showed back-and-forth retaliatory shootings between the Byrd Gang and the Ghost Gang, much of which was fueled by social media posts, rap music and videos.  Numerous individuals have been shot and killed on both sides, and many innocent bystanders have likewise been shot during these inner-city rivalries.

During the investigation, dozens of firearms, most with large-capacity magazines, as well as hundreds of rounds of ammunition, have been recovered from Byrd Gang members, including from the three defendants.   

WILLIAMS, BOVIA and DOLEMAN all face a mandatory life sentence for the VCAR murders.  Sentencing in this matter will be held before Judge Milazzo on July 30, 2025.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, especially the New Orleans Gang Task Force, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera, David Haller and Sarah Dawkins are in charge of the prosecution. 

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 – JOSE ALFREDO JIMENEZ-CENTENO (“JIMENEZ-CENTENO”),age 72, a citizen of El Salvador, pleaded guilty on April 22, 2025 to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the indictment, JIMENEZ-CENTENO reentered the United States after he was previously deported on August 20, 1996. JIMENEZ-CENTENO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  He also faces a sentencing enhancement of 20 years because of a prior felony conviction.

The case was investigated by the United States Customs and Border Protection.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on April 8, 2025, JUAN K. SIMPSON (“SIMPSON”), age 30, a resident of New Orleans,  pled guilty to bank robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).  Sentencing is set for July 8, 2025, before  U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion.

SIMPSON faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00,  up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on November 25, 2024, SIMPSON robbed a Capital One Bank location, in New Orleans.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS –The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Criminal Division of the U.S. Department of Justice announce that a thirteen-count second superseding indictment has been returned, April 25, 2025, by the grand jury in relation to the scheme to stage automobile collisions in the New Orleans area.  The indictment includes new allegations against two defendants for their participation in the homicide of a federal witness.

According to the second superseding indictment, SEAN D. ALFORTISH (“ALFORTISH”), age 57, of New Orleans, and LEON M. PARKER, a/k/a “Chunky,” (“PARKER”), age 51, of New Orleans, conspired to murder federal witness, Cornelius Garrison. Garrison had been a “slammer” in the scheme to stage automobile collisions, including by sideswiping 18-wheeler tractor-trailers and other commercial vehicles.  Garrison was cooperating with the FBI when he was murdered on September 22, 2020, at his mother’s home in New Orleans.  Ryan J. Harris, a former codefendant in this case, pleaded guilty in January 2025 to causing death through the use of firearm, for his role in Garrison’s homicide, along with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.

In addition, the second superseding indictment charges ALFORTISH; PARKER; VANESSA MOTTA (“MOTTA”), age 43, of New Orleans; MOTTA LAW, LLC (“MOTTA LAW”), a law firm in New Orleans; JASON F. GILES (“GILES”), age 46, of New Orleans; THE KING FIRM, LLC (“THE KING FIRM”), a law firm in New Orleans; DIAMINIKE F. STALBERT (“STALBERT”), age 34, of Metairie; CARL MORGAN (“MORGAN”), age 66, of New Orleans; and TIMARA N. LAWRENCE (“LAWRENCE”), age 34, of New Orleans, with participating in the scheme to defraud insurance companies and commercial trucking companies through fraudulently staged automobile collisions.

The superseding indictment alleges that ALFORTISH, MOTTA, MOTTA LAW, GILES, THE KING FIRM, MORGAN, PARKER, STALBERT, LAWRENCE, Cornelius Garrison (“Garrison”), then attorney Danny Patrick Keating (“Keating”), Damian Labeaud (“Labeaud”), Roderick Hickman (“Hickman”), and others participated in a scheme in which they intentionally  staged automobile collisions with other vehicles in the New Orleans metropolitan area.  The scheme included individuals who rode in automobiles as passengers knowing they would be part of staged collisions.  Those individuals later lied as part of fraudulent insurance claims and fraudulent lawsuits based on the staged collisions.  Additionally, the scheme included individuals who drove automobiles and intentionally collided with 18-wheeler tractor-trailers and other commercial vehicles, to stage collisions (“slammers”).  After the staged collisions, the slammers would flee the scene, and a passenger would falsely claim to have been driving at the time of the collision.  Harris, Garrison, Labeaud, and Hickman were slammers, and they recruited and conspired with others to participate in staged collisions.  The scheme included individuals (“spotters”) who drove getaway cars that allowed the slammers to flee the scene after causing a collision and evade detection by law enforcement.  The spotters would sometimes also pretend to be eyewitnesses and would flag down the commercial vehicles after the staged collisions, alleging that the commercial vehicles were at fault. The scheme included individuals, including ALFORTISH, MOTTA, GILES, Keating, other attorneys, and others associated with the attorneys, who pursued fraudulent claims and fraudulent lawsuits knowing they were based on staged collisions.

Count One charges ALFORTISH, MOTTA, MOTTA LAW, GILES, THE KING FIRM, MORGAN, PARKER, STALBERT, and LAWRENCE with conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1341, 1343, and 1349.  The maximum penalty for this count is up to twenty years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine or twice the gross gain to any defendant or twice the gross loss to any victim.

Count Two charges GILES and THE KING FIRM with mail fraud, and Count Three charges ALFORTISH, MOTTA, MOTTA LAW, and PARKER with mail fraud, both in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341.  The maximum penalty for each of these counts is twenty years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine or twice the gross gain to any defendant or twice the gross loss to any victim.

Count Four charges ALFORTISH, MOTTA, and MOTTA LAW with obstruction of justice, and Count Six charges GILES and THE KING FIRM with obstruction of justice, both in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1503(a).  The maximum penalty for each of these counts is ten years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine or twice the gross gain to any defendant or twice the gross loss to any victim.

Count Five charges ALFORTISH, MOTTA, and MOTTA LAW with witness tampering, and Count Seven charges GILES and THE KING FIRM with witness tampering, both in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(b)(1)(B).  The maximum penalty for each of these counts is twenty years imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine or twice the gross gain to any defendant or twice the gross loss to any victim.

Count Eight charges STALBERT with making false statements to a federal agent.  If convicted, she would face up to five years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.

Counts Nine through Thirteen concern the homicide of federal witness Cornelius Garrison. Count Nine charges ALFORTISH and PARKER with conspiracy to commit witness tampering through murder of Garrison, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1512(a)(1)(C), 1512(a)(3)(A), and 1512(k).  Count Ten charges ALFORTISH and PARKER with witness tampering through murder, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 11512(a)(1)(C), 1512(a)(3)(A), and 2.  Count Eleven charges ALFORTISH and PARKER with conspiracy to retaliate against a witness through murder, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1513(a)(1)(B), 1513(a)(2)(A), and 1513(f).  Count Twelve charges ALFORTISH and PARKER with retaliation against a witness through murder, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1513(a)(1)(B), 1513(a)(2)(A), and 2.  As to each of these counts, ALFORTISH and PARKER face a maximum of life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.

Count Thirteen charges ALFORTISH and PARKER with causing Garrison’s death through the use of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(j)(1) and 2.  The maximum penalty is any term of years including life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.

Including this superseding indictment, sixty-three (63) defendants have been charged in the federal probe into the staging of automobile collisions with other vehicles in the New Orleans metropolitan area.

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

The U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section of the Criminal Division, U.S. Department of Justice, would like to acknowledge the tremendous work of the FBI, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne; Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman; and Trial Attorney J. Ryan McLaren of the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on April 15, 2025, TRAVIS ENCLADE (“ENCLADE”), age 43, was sentenced to 288 months imprisonment after previously being found guilty of conspiring to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and 100 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of heroin, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, 40 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and 100 grams or more of a mixture containing a detectable amount of heroin, and of being a felon in possession of firearms. Following his imprisonment, ENCLADE will be placed on supervised release for 5 years.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, ENCLADE and his co-defendant, conspired together, and with others, to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl in New Orleans from August 2022 through October 12, 2022.  During this time, ENCLADE and the co-defendant  engaged in multiple hand-to-hand transactions, almost daily, with drug customers in the Hollygrove area.

In September 2022, law enforcement identified a residence in the 3500 block of  Encampment Street in New Orleans as a stash house used by the co-defendant and ENCLADE.  Both the co-defendant and ENCLADE each made short trips  to the stash house regularly.  Both men, also had key access to enter the house. All of these facts were indicative of going in the house quickly to access drugs.  Law enforcement executed a search warrant at the stash house, and other addresses associated with the co-defendant and ENCLADE, on October 12, 2022.

During the search of the stash house, law enforcement seized over 534 grams of heroin and fentanyl, over 120 grams of fentanyl, and 363 grams of methamphetamine, which included 327.5 grams of pure methamphetamine.  Law enforcement also seized a Diamondback, Model DB9, multicaliber pistol, and a Palmetto State Armory, Model PA-X9, multicaliber pistol.  The stash house was nearly vacant other than the drug paraphernalia, such as numerous unused vacuum seal bags, a plastic mixer bottle containing a brownish residue, numerous digital scales with suspected drug residue, a large mechanical press used to compress drugs into kilogram shaped packages for later distribution, and several bags of brown sugar, which is often used a cutting agent.

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.

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 Drug Enforcement Administration New Orleans Division, the Drug Enforcement Administration Special Response Team, the Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Response Team, the New Orleans Police Department, the Louisiana State Police, the Slidell Police Department, the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, and the Thibodeaux Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and André Jones of the Narcotics Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –RICARDO JORDAN (“JORDAN”), age 22, of St. Tammany Parish, was sentenced on April 10, 2025 by United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier, for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, on August 3, August 10, and September 19, 2023, JORDAN sold forty (40) grams or more of fentanyl to an undercover Louisiana State Police Trooper.  On September 28, 2023, a search warrant was executed at JORDAN’S Covington, La. residence where law enforcement officials  recovered approximately 101 grams of fentanyl.

As a result of this criminal conduct, JORDAN was indicted on four counts related to the drug trafficking and drug possession and subsequently pled guilty.

Judge Barbier sentenced JORDAN to 60 months imprisonment, a 4-year term of supervised release and a mandatory special assessment fee of $400.

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Briana Williams of the Narcotics Unit. 

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JONATHAN SUAREZ (“SUAREZ”), age 29, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, with was indicted today for receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(2).

According to the indictment, between on or about February 15, 2023, and April 9, 2025, SUAREZ received visual depictions of minors as young as approximately two (2) years old engaging in sexually explicit conduct, including a video he received on or about February 15, 2023.

SUAREZ faces a mandatory minimum of five (5) years in prison and a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years. SUAREZ also faces at least five years, and up to a lifetime, of supervised release and up to a $250,000 fine. He may also be required to register as a sex offender.

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 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, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – KEITH CALDWELL (“CALDWELL”), age 41, of New Orleans,  was charged on January 31, 2025, in a recently unsealed, three-count indictment, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.  Count 1 charged CALDWELL with Possession with the Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D).  Count 2 charged him 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 3 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to the indictment, on September 28, 2024, Louisiana State Police troopers and federal agents arrested CALDWELL for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act while he was in possession of firearms.  Further investigation determined that CALDWELL was prohibited from possessing firearms due to his prior felony conviction(s).

If convicted, CALDWELL faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least 3 years of supervised release for Count 1; a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to life imprisonment to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed , up to a $250,000 fine, and at least 5 years of supervised release for Count 2; and up to 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release for Count 3.  CALDWELL also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee as to all three counts.

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 was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crimes 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 RALPH PRICE, age 27, was charged by a federal grand jury on April 4, 2025, in a three-count indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and Federal Controlled Substances Act.

PRICE is charged in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Suboxone, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 841(b)(1)(E).  He is charged in Count 2 with possessing a machinegun in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(B)(ii).  He is charged in Count 3 with possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).

As to Count 1, PRICE faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release.  As to Count 2, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years in prison up to a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must run consecutive to any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release.  As to Count 3, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, up to a $10,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to the indictment, on or about March 13, 2025, PRICE possessed methamphetamine, Suboxone, and marijuana with the intent to distribute those substances.  PRICE also possessed a Glock Model 19 pistol, equipped with a machinegun conversion device, in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.

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 and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime 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 – JAMES HARRIS (“HARRIS”), age 33, of Mississippi, pled guilty on April 23, 2025, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance, to being in possession of machine guns, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o)() and 924(a)(2), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.

According to court documents, special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) identified individuals involved in trafficking firearms in New Orleans.  Between September 2023 and November 2023, agents communicated with HARRIS about purchasing machine guns and firearms.  On November 15, 2023, HARRIS sold machine guns and firearms to undercover ATF agents in the eastern District of Louisiana.

HARRIS is scheduled for sentencing on August 13, 2025.  HARRIS faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following imprisonment 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).

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  The prosecution is being handed by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – AVERY FREEL (“FREEL”), age 23, of Ocean Springs, MS, pled guilty on April 10, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, to Attempted Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2), announced Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. 

FREEL faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years, up to a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00.  In addition, FREEL 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 a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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, the Hammond Police Department, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations with this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

*       *      *

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that CESAR RUIZ-AGUILAR (“RUIZ-AGUILAR”), age 38, a native of Mexico, pleaded guilty today to illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, RUIZ-AGUILAR was previously removed from the United States on March 13, 2010 and May 17, 2017.  He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on February 1, 2024 and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter. United States District Court Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing for June 5, 2025.

RUIZ-AGUILAR 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 $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Tangipahoa 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 SANTIAGO PUENTE-GARCIA (“PUENTE-GARCIA”), age 25, a native of Mexico, pled guilty on April 11, 2025 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the indictment, PUENTE-GARCIA was previously removed from the United States on February 4, 2022.  He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on October 29, 2024 and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.

PUENTE-GARCIA 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. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CESAR A. LOBO-RAMOS (“LOBO-RAMOS”), age 38, a native of Honduras, pled guilty on April 22, 2025, 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.

According to court documents, LOBO-RAMOS reentered the United States after being previously deported on April 10, 2018. LOBO-RAMOS came to the attention of Immigration and Customs Enforcement after he was arrested by the Kenner Police Department on November 2, 2023 for resisting arrest and obstruction of police. 

LOBO-RAMOS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 2 years, up to 1 year of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  He also faces a sentencing enhancement of 20 years because of a prior felony conviction for sexual battery in Jefferson Parish in 2010.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that LATRICIA HOPE HAYNES MOLIERE (“MOLIERE”), age 51, a resident of LaPlace, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon on April 10, 2025, to making False Statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001.

According to court documents, MOLIERE submitted an application for a loan through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) in March 2021.  In this application, she falsely represented that she owned a baking sole proprietorship with an average monthly payroll of $8,041.  In support of the PPP application, MOLIERE attached a fraudulent Internal Revenue Service Form 1040 Schedule C.  Several months later, MOLIERE filed a petition for bankruptcy in which she said that she was not a sole proprietor.  As a result of her false representations, MOLIERE received $20,102 from the SBA.  This loan was later forgiven because MOLIERE falsely represented that she had spent the SBA funds on payroll.

MOLIERE faces a prison term of up to five years, a term of supervised release of up to three years, a fine of up to $250,000, a mandatory special assessment fee of $100, and payment of restitution in the amount of $20,102 to the SBA.

Judge Fallon set sentencing in this matter for July 10, 2025.

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.

For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work the United States Secret Service and the United States Trustee in investigating this case.  Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that TERRY REED (“REED”), age 54, a resident of Lafayette Parish, was sentenced on April 15, 2025, by United States District Judge Brandon S. Long, to serve 180 months (15 years) in prison, 5 years of supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee, for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Federal Gun Control Acts.

On October 29, 2024, REED pled guilty to possession, with intent to distribute, fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine,  in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) (Count 1); felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) (Count 2); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) (Count 3). 

According to court documents, on or about February 3, 2024, REED intentionally possessed, with the intent to distribute, (50) grams or more of methamphetamine.  Additionally, he possessed a Ruger Model LC9, nine-millimeter pistol, despite being previously convicted of a felony, a fact that prohibits his possession of a firearm.  REED used the illegally possessed firearm to further a drug trafficking crime.

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

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that JARED THOMAS (“THOMAS”), age 32, a resident of New Orleans; TERRENCE ROBINSON a/k/a Brian Jacobs (“ROBINSON”), age 39, a resident of Carriere, Mississippi; CHRISTOPHER MEYERS (“MEYERS”), age 33, a resident of Slidell; HANNIF BEY (“BEY”), age 34, a resident of Metairie; and JALEN HILLS (“HILLS”), age 22, a resident of Lacombe, were charged on April 11, 2025, in a six-count indictment.  In Count One, ROBINSON, THOMAS, BEY, MEYERS, ROBINSON, and HILLS were charged for conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.  In Counts Two through Six, MEYERS, THOMAS, and ROBINSON were charged with interstate transport of stolen vehicles, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2312. 

According to the indictment, THOMAS, BEY, MEYERS, ROBINSON, and HILLS devised a scheme to create fake credit profiles to secure funding for auto loans.  The credit profiles used both stolen and fake social security numbers, drivers’ license numbers, and dates of birth. Once they secured the loan they would purchase Audi vehicles at Audi of New Orleans.  After the group would take possession of the vehicles, they would never pack back the auto loan, sell the vehicles for their personal enrichment, or use the vehicles for their personal enjoyment.      

If convicted of Count One, THOMAS, BEY, MEYERS, ROBINSON, and HILLS face 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. If convicted of Counts Two through Six, THOMAS, MEYERS, and ROBINSON face 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.

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

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana State Police, and the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office, 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 – JOSE GUADALUPE COCA-ESCALANTE, a/k/a “Lenin Romo”, a/k/a “Guadalupe Escalante,” (“COCA-ESCALANTE”) age 39, a native of Mexico, was indicted on April 11, 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.

According to the indictment, COCA-ESCALANTE was found in the United States on September 26, 2024, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on December 8, 2016.

COCA-ESCALANTE faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 for re-entry of a removed alien.

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 (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FRAILYN ARGUETA-JERONIMO, a/k/a “Frailyn Argeta-Jeronimo,” (“ARGUETA-JERONIMO”) age 25, a native of Guatemala, was indicted on April 11, 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.

According to the indictment, ARGUETA-JERONIMO was found in the United States on March 27, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States, after being previously deported on February 6, 2020.

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

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 (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

NEW ORLEANS – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that NERI OSBELI ARGUETA-CHUN (“ARGUETA-CHUN”), age 42, was indicted on April 11, 2025 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) and Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(b)(1).

According to the indictment, ARGUETA-CHUN, reentered the United States after being previously deported on October 31, 2018. If convicted, ARGUETA-CHUN faces up to two years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. However, because of his prior felony conviction, ARGUETA-CHUN also faces a sentencing enhancement of up to 10 years imprisonment.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline), 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 Michael M. Simpson praised the work of the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on  April 11, 2024, LUCINTO FUENTES (“FUENTES”), age 21, a citizen of Belize, was indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

According to court documents, on March 2, 2025, FUENTES did knowingly possess a firearm, having previously been convicted of a felony. Specifically, FUENTES is accused of possessing a Taurus nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, said firearm having been in and affecting interstate commerce.

If convicted, FUENTES 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 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 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 Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. 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 the April 9, 2025, unsealing of an indictment against KYRIN HUDSON (“HUDSON”), age 29, of Tangipahoa Parish, charging him with distribution of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, resulting in the death of a victim, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

If convicted, HUDSON faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of twenty years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three years of supervised release following imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

Acting United States Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Hammond Police Department.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Sarver and Rachal Cassagne 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).