Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that REHA JANEE ARVIE, (“ARVIE”), age 33, of Westwego, LA, was indicted on September 6, 2024 for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud (Count1), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349; Mail Fraud (Counts 2 and 3), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341; and, Making False Statements (Count 4), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2).

According to the indictment, beginning in or around July 2020, ARVIE defrauded, and attempted to defraud, various state offices of Unemployment Insurance (“UI”) through the submission of approximately 100 fraudulent UI applications.  ARVIE recruited friends and family via Facebook to file these fraudulent UI applications.  Additionally, ARVIE filed fraudulent UI applications for herself and others, in various states including Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Indiana, Missouri, Nevada, Pennsylvania, Utah, Texas, and the territory of Guam.  ARVIE charged those for whom she filed fraudulent UI claims fees ranging from    $1,200.00 to $1,500.00.  Moreover, during the investigation, ARVIE lied to federal agents during an interview.

Later, on April 8, 2021, ARVIE unlawfully obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan from the United States Small Business Administration (“SBA”).  Specifically, ARVIE falsely claimed on her PPP application that she had income of $102,357.00 for the year 2020 and submitted a fraudulent Schedule C in support thereof.  As a result of her false statements, ARVIE received a PPP loan of approximately $20,832.00.

If convicted, ARVIE faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, per count, for Counts 1 through 3 and up to five (5) years imprisonment for Count 4.  As to each count, ARVIE  also faces up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine up to $250,000.00, or twice the gross gain to the defendant, or twice the gross loss to any victim, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that Strategic Technology Institute, Inc. (“STI”) will pay $750,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act. STI is a defense military contractor headquartered in Rockville, Maryland. 

The settlement resolves allegations that STI submitted false claims in conjunction with obtaining payments from the United States under its subcontract agreement to provide onsite support services at the Marine Forces Reserve (“MARFORRES”) facility in New Orleans, Louisiana.  The Government contends that STI  submitted false and fraudulent invoices and supporting documents for work it allegedly performed at MARFORRES.

U.S. Attorney Evans credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Defense Criminal Investigative Service and U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service with the investigation leading to the settlement.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Loan “Mimi” Nguyen.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA- HERBERT COOPER (“COOPER”), age 28, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on September 5, 2024, by U.S. District  Judge, Eldon E. Fallon, to 120 months’ imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to Counts 1, 2, and 3 of a superseding bill of information.  The Court also ordered that COOPER be placed on supervised release for 5 years following release from imprisonment and pay a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.

Count 1 charged COOPER with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D).  Count 2 charged COOPER 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 COOPER with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).

According to court documents, COOPER was previously convicted of felony offenses in St. Tammany Parish and Orleans Parish.  Due to his criminal history, he is prohibited from having a firearm.  On March 13, 2022, while conducting video surveillance of the 300 block of North Gayoso Street in New Orleans,  New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) officers observed COOPER conduct a suspected hand-to-hand narcotics distribution transaction.   When a uniformed NOPD officer approached COOPER, he fled and  discarded a loaded Glock Model 23, .40 caliber semi-automatic handgun, with an extended magazine containing twenty-five (25) live rounds of ammunition.  Upon COOPER’s arrest, NOPD officers discovered approximately $2,300.00 in cash on his person.  Officers also recovered 1460.5 grams of marijuana, 29.46 grams of methamphetamine, a bottle half-filled with Promethazine, a digital scale, plastic sandwich baggies, and a standard, as well as an extended magazine for a Glock Model 23, semi-automatic handgun, from COOPER’s vehicle.

On March 23, 2022 after obtaining a search warrant for a residence and a safe used by  COOPER, officers recovered $12,000.00 in cash, two falsified Western Union money orders for $900.00 each, a Smith and Wesson, .38 Special revolver with an obliterated serial number, a Social Security card, and birth certificate, belonging to COOPER.

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.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 29, 2024, CUONG QUOC TRAN (“TRAN”), age 38, of Slidell, La, was indicted for possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 922(o).    

 If convicted, TRAN faces up to 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a period of up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. 

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service. The case    is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit  .

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced  that DONDRE MORGAN, (“MORGAN”), age 32, of Houma, LA, was sentenced on September 10, 2024 for Making False Statements to Federal Agents, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2).  

According to court documents, on April 7, 2022, MORGAN made materially false statements to special agents with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General, Criminal Investigations Division.  Specifically, MORGAN lied about his involvement and participation in a Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan fraud scheme.

United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion sentenced MORGAN to ten months of imprisonment, followed by three (3) years of supervised release, payment of restitution in the amount of $55,945.33, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

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

The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; and the United States Secret Service’s Cyber Fraud Task Force, consisting of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Thibodeaux Police Department, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, with this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant United States Attorney Edward Rivera, COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator of the Financial Crimes Unit; and Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman, of the General Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TAMIKA CHAPPELL (“CHAPPELL”), age 40, of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 29, 2024 to five (5) years of probation by U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier after previously pleading guilty to making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), making false statements to the IRS, and theft of government funds.  

The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, to provide emergency financial assistance in connection with economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.  One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP.  In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding.

The PPP allows qualifying small businesses and other organizations to receive loans with a maturity of two years and an interest rate of 1%.  PPP loan proceeds must be used by businesses on payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent, and utilities.  The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.

In addition to probation, CHAPPELL was ordered to pay $210,274 in restitution to the Small Business Administration, $155,359 to the Internal Revenue Service, $96,150 to the Social Security Administration, and $23,125 to a victim bank.  She also has to pay a mandatory $300 special assessment fee.

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

This case was investigated by an agent assigned to the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force.  The PRAC was established to serve the American public by promoting transparency and facilitating coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response.  The PRAC’s 21 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending.  The PRAC Fraud Task Force brings together agents from 15 Inspectors General to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program.  Task force agents who are detailed to the PRAC receive expanded authority to investigate pandemic fraud as well as tools and training to support their investigations.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of PRAC member U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General, the Social Security Administration, and the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –KENTRELL HUBBARD (“HUBBARD”), age 25, of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 22, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 70 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and, to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, on June 9, 2023, a confidential informant for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, purchased fentanyl from HUBBARD after meeting him near a supermarket that was a known hotspot for drug trafficking in the Iberville housing project.  The next week, special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation saw HUBBARD with a handgun as they were executing an unrelated search warrant.

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - PHILLIP JENKINS (“JENKINS”), age 41, a resident of New Orleans, was indicted on August 29, 2024 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, JENKINS possessed a SCCY Model CPX-2, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, and ammunition.

If convicted, JENKINS faces up to 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants 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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DAYSHAWN BROWN (“BROWN”), age 40, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 29, 2024 to Counts 3 and 4 of the indictment pending against him.  Count 3 charged BROWN with distribution of 50 or more grams of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B).  Count 4 charged BROWN 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).

At sentencing as to Count 3, BROWN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years and up to forty (40) years, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least four (4) years of supervised release.  As to Count 4, BROWN faces up to fifteen (15) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and at least three (3) years of supervised release.  Each offense also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

Judge Barbier scheduled sentencing for December 5, 2024.

Court documents reveal that on September 13, 2023, BROWN met with an undercover special agent at a gas station located in New Orleans, to sell narcotics and a firearm.  During the transaction, BROWN sold the undercover special agent a Beretta Pietro S.P.A. Model 70S, .380 caliber pistol with an obliterated serial number, and approximately 54 grams of methamphetamine.

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that VICTOR MANUEL OSORTO-LOPEZ (“OSORTO-LOPEZ”), age 40, a native of Honduras, pleaded guilty on August 29, 2024, to illegal reentry of a previously removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, OSORTO-LOPEZ was removed from the United States on December 4, 2009 and, again on September 3, 2012.  He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on March 14, 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.

OSORTO-LOPEZ 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. United States District Court Judge Barry W.  Ashe set sentencing for November 21, 2024.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection agency in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that DANIEL KELLY (“KELLY”), age 38, of New Orleans, was indicted for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts.

 KELLY is charged in Count 1 of the indictment with possession with intent to distribute cocaine and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).  He is charged in Count 2 with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  In Count 3, he is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

As to Count 1, KELLY faces up to twenty 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 five years up to life in prison, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.  As to Count 3, he faces up to fifteen years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release.  Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to court documents, on or about March 14, 2024, KELLY possessed, with the intent to distribute, cocaine and fentanyl, and illegally possessed six firearms and ammunition in furtherance of his possession with intent to distribute.   Additionally, as a previously convicted felon, KELLY was prohibited from possessing the firearm and ammunition.

U.S. Attorney Evans 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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  Special Assistant United States Attorney James Ollinger of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – MIGUEL KEELEN (“KEELEN”), age 35, of Harvey, La., pled guilty on August 29, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, KEELEN possessed a firearm on December 11, 2023 while at a Valero Gas Station on South Claiborne Avenue in New Orleans.  Specifically, KEELEN displayed and drew a pistol from his waistband before then concealing the pistol and fleeing from police.  KEELEN was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his previous felony convictions.

KEELEN faces up to fifteen (15) 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 mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  Sentencing is scheduled for December 5, 2024.

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney James Ollinger of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CHARVAN MORRIS (“MORRIS”), age 27, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on August 29, 2024 before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to two counts of distributing fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

According to court documents, on February 16, 2024, MORRIS sold 3.26 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives at the London Lodge Motel on Airline Highway.  During the transaction, MORRIS was in the driver’s seat of a vehicle while the front seat passenger sat armed with a visible AR-style pistol.  On February 20, 2024, MORRIS sold 5.53 grams of fentanyl to the same confidential informant at the London Lodge.

MORRIS faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, a minimum of three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 as to each count.

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 Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MAURICE FLORANT (“FLORANT”), age 36, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty today, before United States District  Judge Carl J. Barbier  to being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

FLORANT faces up to15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  The offense also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

Judge Barbier scheduled sentencing for December 5, 2024. 

Court documents reveal that on September 9, 2022,  Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (“JPSO”) deputies responded to a  stolen vehicle alert and saw FLORANT at a gas station, seated in the stolen vehicle.  When deputies attempted to stop  the vehicle, FLORANT fled, triggering a high-speed and dangerous chase.  FLORANT struck a JPSO police vehicle before crashing into the exterior air conditioning unit of an apartment complex.  The defendant fled on foot and was eventually arrested.   Deputies searched the vehicle and found two firearms; a Palmetto State Armory Model PA-15, .556 - millimeter  pistol, located on the rear driver's side floorboard, and a CZ Scorpion Model EVO 3 S1, nine- millimeter pistol, located on the front passenger side floorboard.  

Court documents also revealed that FLORANT had been  previously convicted of Manslaughter in Orleans Parish District Criminal Court.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JERAD M. BARRETT (“BARRETT”),  age 40, and JENNIE L. JAMES (“JAMES”), age 67, both of New Orleans,  pled guilty on August 28, 2024, before United States District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle.  Specifically, BARRETT pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fifty (50) kilograms or more of marijuana, two counts of possession with intent to distribute, fifty (50) kilograms or more of marijuana, and maintaining a drug-involved premises, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 846, and 856(a)(1). JAMES pled guilty to maintaining a drug-involved premises, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856(a)(1), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

After receiving information regarding BARRETT’s narcotics distribution activity and conducting an investigation, agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies, recovered approximately 940 kilograms of marijuana in both his residence and multiple storage units.  Agents also uncovered communications between JAMES and BARRETT related to distribution, packaging, and relocation of narcotics within the Eastern District of Louisiana.

BARRETT and JAMES are scheduled to be sentenced on December 11, 2024.  For conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute marijuana, BARRETT faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least five (3) years of supervised release.  For maintaining a drug-involved premises, BARRETT and JAMES each face up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $500,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release.  As to each charge, both BARRETT and JAMES face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DOMINICK ANTHONY VALOTTA (“VALOTTA”), age 38, a resident of Harahan, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 200 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to sexual exploitation of children, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a). VALOTTA was also sentenced to 10 years of supervised release following  imprisonment and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  VALOTTA must register as a sex offender.  Judge Zainey scheduled a restitution hearing in this matter for November 5, 2024.

According to court documents, based on a 2022 complaint by a minor resident in Rhode Island, law enforcement authorities executed search warrants on social media accounts, electronic devices, and a residence in Harahan, Louisiana, belonging to VALOTTA.  A review of the items seized revealed that throughout 2022 and early 2023, VALOTTA met at least three (3) minor females on social media applications on which VALOTTA created a false persona.  When chatting with the minors, VALOTTA typically engaged in sexually charged correspondence.  His pattern included, and culminated in, VALOTTA requesting sexually explicit images, videos and depictions from minors.  VALOTTA often offered to take and transmit sexually explicit pictures of himself to the minors to encourage them to do the same for him.   VALOTTA also sent messages to the minors seeking to arrange in-person sexual liaisons.  VALOTTA’s victims included a North Carolina resident born in August 2007 (Victim 1), an Ohio resident born in July 2008 (Victim 2), and a North Carolina resident born in March 2008 (Victim 3). 

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that PENELOPE PASSERO (“PASSERO”), age 50, of Westwego, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 27, 2024 to Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.  PASSERO faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $250,000, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571, up to three years of supervised release and, a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, from February 2016 to December 2020, PASSERO knowingly accessed and converted approximately $59,320.97 in Social Security Administration and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES ACT”) funds.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2024 before United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter.

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

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

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, 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 –  U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MUNIRA SCHOFIELD (“SCHOFIELD”), age 28, a resident of LaPlace, La., was sentenced by United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to four years of probation, with twelve months to be served on home confinement, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343.  The charges stem from SCHOFIELD’s role in a conspiracy to prepare and file fraudulent applications for loans related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).  Judge Fallon also ordered SCHOFIELD to pay over $219,000 in restitution and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  SCHOFIELD’s co-conspirators, her mother, Lynn Schofield (“Lynn”), and brother, Bashir Schofield (“Bashir”), were convicted separately for their respective roles in the offense. 

According to court documents, SCHOFIELD, Lynn and Bashir submitted fraudulent applications to obtain money from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster (EIDL) loans.  Each defendant submitted at least one loan.  All applications falsely represented that the applicant had a sole proprietorship and generated substantial income from the business, by overinflating gross receipts.  The entities either did not exist or earned far less money than reported.  They also misrepresented that the loan proceeds would be used for business related purposes, when, in fact, the defendants intended to use the money for personal reasons.  SCHOFIELD submitted a fraudulent application for an EIDL loan for a business she claimed to own, “Just Jocin.”  In conjunction with her mother, Lynn, SCHOFIELD also gave false material information to the Small Business Administration.  This false information included the gross inflation of monthly gross receipts to support still other loans, including for an entity named “Afromerica Touch 360, LLC,” and used some of the resulting funds for herself.  

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.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –HORACE WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”), age 55, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 21, 2024 by United States District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) received information from a confidential source that WASHINGTON, who had previously been convicted of a federal drug trafficking offense, was again dealing drugs.  Through investigation, DEA agents learned that WASHINGTON was getting the drugs from sources near the Texas/Mexico border.  These sources would fly to New Orleans, while another co-conspirator drove a car with the drugs to New Orleans.  The agents eventually seized ten kilograms of cocaine that WASHINGTON’s coconspirator left in a car in a Westbank parking lot.

Judge Lemelle sentenced WASHINGTON to 121 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller, Senior Litigation Counsel and Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –KENTRELL HUBBARD (“HUBBARD”), age 25, of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 22, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 70 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to distributing fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and, to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, on June 9, 2023, a confidential informant for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, purchased fentanyl from HUBBARD after meeting him near a supermarket that was a known hotspot for drug trafficking in the Iberville housing project.  The next week, special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation saw HUBBARD with a handgun as they were executing an unrelated search warrant.

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LARRY JAMES (“JAMES”), age 23, of Madisonville, Louisiana, was sentenced on August 20, 2024 after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute, 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. JAMES also pled guilty to three counts of distribution of fentanyl and, one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846.

JAMES was sentenced to 63 months imprisonment, four years of supervised release, and a $500 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, JAMES sold fentanyl pills to an undercover agent on August 25, 2023, September 8, 2023, and September 15, 2023.  On September 28, 2023, law enforcement searched JAMES’s residence pursuant to a state search warrant and found additional fentanyl pills, packaging materials, two digital scales, and three firearms.

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –HORACE WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”), age 55, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 21, 2024 by United States District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle for violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, the Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) received information from a confidential source that WASHINGTON, who had previously been convicted of a federal drug trafficking offense, was again dealing drugs.  Through investigation, DEA agents learned that WASHINGTON was getting the drugs from sources near the Texas/Mexico border.  These sources would fly to New Orleans, while another co-conspirator drove a car with the drugs to New Orleans.  The agents eventually seized ten kilograms of cocaine that WASHINGTON’s coconspirator left in a car in a Westbank parking lot.

Judge Lemelle sentenced WASHINGTON to 121 months imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release.  He was also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller, Senior Litigation Counsel and Project Safe Neighborhoods.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RYAN JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 21, BRYAN SPEARS (“SPEARS”), age 19, and BRYAN TURNER (“TURNER”), age 19, of New Orleans, were indicted  on July 26, 2024 for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts.  The indictment was unsealed on August 7, 2024.

JOHNSON and TURNER are each charged in Count 1 with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), (b)(1)(D), (b)(2), and 846, and in Count 2 with conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o).  JOHNSON and SPEARS are charged in Count 3, and JOHNSON and TURNER are charged in Count 6, with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), (b)(1)(D), and (b)(2).  JOHNSON and SPEARS are charged in Count 4, and JOHNSON and TURNER are charged in Count 7, with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  SPEARS is additionally charged in Count 5 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).

Each of the drug trafficking charges in Counts 1, 3, and 6 carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release.  Count 2, conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Counts 4 and 7, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, both carry a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.  Count 5, felon in possession of a firearm, carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to the indictment, JOHNSON and TURNER conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute tapentadol, marijuana, and tramadol, and to possess firearms to further their drug trafficking conspiracy.  On or about September 1, 2023, JOHNSON and SPEARS possessed tapentadol and marijuana with the intent to distribute those drugs, and possessed both a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber and a Glock Model 17, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol in furtherance of that crime. SPEARS is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of prior felony convictions for simple robbery, possession with intent to distribute amphetamine, and illegal carrying of a weapon.

On March 28, 2024, JOHNSON and TURNER possessed tapentadol, marijuana, and tramadol with the intent to distribute those drugs, and possessed both a Smith & Wesson Model M&P 15, 5.56 x 45-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol, a Glock Model 27, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and a Glock Model 48, 9-millimeter caliber semi-automatic pistol in furtherance of that crime.

U.S. Attorney Evans 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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MORRIS & DICKSON (“M&D”), a Shreveport-based pharmaceutical distribution company has agreed to a $13.75 million settlement with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.   

According to the Non-Prosecution Agreement, beginning in January of 2012 and continuing until May of 2018, MORRIS & DICKSON, through its employees and agents, failed to conduct adequate order-level monitoring, and failed to file suspicious order reports with the Drug Enforcement Agency (“DEA”), as required by DEA Regulations.  In fact, M&D filed just three suspicious order reports with DEA during the relevant time period.  This was the case despite M&D’s employees’ and agents’ awareness not only of the high likelihood that some of M&D’s customers were diverting controlled substances, but also of other circumstances that should have resulted in filing suspicious order reports with DEA.

Former M&D customer Wilkinson Family Pharmacy (“Wilkinson”), an independent retail pharmacy in Chalmette, Louisiana, illegally dispensed quantities of controlled substances outside the scope of professional practice and not for a legitimate purpose.  Wilkinson filled many opioid related prescriptions, often written by “pill mill” doctors or forged by medical staff and their associates at “pill mill” clinics.  Specifically, Wilkinson filled approximately twenty times more opioid prescriptions than either the national or Louisiana average for pharmacy filled opioid prescriptions.  M&D was notified that Wilkinson was filling prescriptions for controlled substances far exceeding the national and state average.  Although, M&D counseled Wilkinson about its questionable ordering practices, M&D never reported Wilkinson or its arguably suspicious orders to DEA.

Additional conditions of the settlement require M&D to enhance its compliance program and internal controls.  Finally, DOJ acknowledges the substantial enhancements M&D has made to its compliance program.

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

The investigation was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Kathryn McHugh of the Financial Crimes Unit, Nicholas Moses, Health Care Fraud Coordinator, and Narcotics Unit Supervisor, Nolan Paige.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that today, ANGELA C. MITCHELL (“MITCHELL”), age 49, of Ponchatoula, Louisiana pled guilty to access device fraud, for embezzling from a Covington company (“Company A”) where she worked, from October 2016 to June 2018.  U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry scheduled MITCHELL’s sentencing for November 26, 2024.

According to court documents, MITCHELL diverted approximately $116,998.70 to herself from Company A by, among other things, fraudulently transferring funds from Company A’s bank accounts via electronic transfers and by drafting unauthorized checks to herself.  MITCHELL committed the fraud during her employment, and continued illegally accessing Company A’s accounts after she was terminated in June 2018.

If convicted, MITCHELL faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine or the greater of twice the gross gain or twice the gross loss, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations - New Orleans Field Office in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne, of the Financial Crimes Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RODNEY OFFRAY (“OFFRAY”), age 49, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on August 13, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion after previously pleading guilty to a three-count indictment charging him with distribution of fentanyl and heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agents began investigating OFFRAY in July 2023 for narcotics distribution in New Orleans.  The ATF used an undercover operation to conduct three controlled purchases from OFFRAY, totaling 125 grams of heroin and fentanyl.  On October 10, 2023, agents arrested OFFRAY, searched his residence, and located a semi-automatic rifle, 85 grams of heroin, 69 grams of cocaine, 120 fentanyl pills, and 13 grams of crack cocaine.

Judge Papillion sentenced OFFRAY to 84 months imprisonment on all counts to run concurrently.  Judge Papillion also ordered that OFFRAY be placed on four (4) years of supervised release and pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that IGNACIO SORIANO-RUIZ (“SORIANO”), age 29, a Mexican national, was sentenced on August 15, 2024 after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, SORIANO was encountered during a traffic stop on Interstate 10 in St. Tammany Parish on April 24, 2024 after being previously deported on January 14, 2018. SORIANO was sentenced by United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to time served, equaling nearly four months of imprisonment.

Database checks indicated that SORIANO re-entered the United States without permission, inspection, or parole by an immigration officer and without the express consent of the United States Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for readmission to the United States and was encountered in the Eastern District of Louisiana by law enforcement.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MARK AMOS (“AMOS”), age 26, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced today to serve 60 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.  AMOS previously pled guilty to illegally possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c).

According to court records, on July 7, 2022, Bogalusa Police Department Violent Crimes Task Force deputies attempted to stop a 2015 Chevrolet Corvette.  AMOS, the driver of the Corvette, refused to stop and sped through a heavily residential area of Bogalusa at more than 100 miles per hour, disregarding traffic signs and people.

The vehicle pursuit lasted approximately five minutes before coming to an end at a residence near the intersection of Main Street and North Avenue in Bogalusa.  Eventually, AMOS then exited the vehicle, fled, then hid underneath a nearby residence.  Agents saw a backpack under the residence where AMOS was hiding.  

Upon searching the backpack incident to AMOS’s arrest, officers found two bags of marijuana that weighed approximately 522 grams.  An additional clear plastic baggie containing 2.6 grams of marijuana recovered from AMOS’s front right pocket.  The backpack also contained two handguns, a Springfield Model XDM, nine-millimeter pistol, and a stolen Sig Sauer Model SP2022, nine-millimeter pistol.

AMOS was a rap artist in Bogalusa, who used the name “FG Famous” and was a close associate of another rap artist, Javarious Scott, a.k.a. “Jaydayougan,” who was shot and killed in 2022.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Bogalusa Police Department.  This matter was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BALTAZAR GARCIA-MENDOZA (“GARCIA”), age 33, was sentenced on August 7, 2024 to time served after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to court documents, GARCIA was encountered during a traffic stop on Interstate 10 in St. Tammany Parish on April 24, 2024, after being previously deported on February 3, 2014.  

GARCIA was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance to time served, which was over three months. GARCIA had no previous criminal history.

Database checks indicated that GARCIA reentered the United States without permission, inspection, or parole by an immigration officer and without the express consent of the United States Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for readmission to the United States and, was encountered in the Eastern District of Louisiana by law enforcement.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 8, 2024, ABDHUL ROUVOOF SHAIK (“SHAIK”), age 29, and PANKAJ SINGH BOHRA (“BOHRA”), age 34, both foreign nationals of the Republic of India, and REZA HETA PRATAMA (“PRATAMA”), age 28, a foreign national of the Republic of Indonesia, were each charged in separate indictments with Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2).  If convicted, SHAIK, BOHRA, and PRATAMA each face a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to life, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

According to court documents, SHAIK, BOHRA, and PRATAMA were all previously employed by Carnival Cruise Lines and were arrested in July 2024 after special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, found all three in possession of child pornography at the Erato Street Cruise Terminal in New Orleans.

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

These cases were 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.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, and the U.S. Customs and Border Protection.  The prosecution of these cases is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JON VERDIN (“VERDIN”), age 28, of Terrebonne Parish, La., pled guilty on August 7, 2024, before United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance to possessing over a kilogram of fentanyl and four firearms, in addition to money laundering.  Specifically, VERDIN pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of firearms by a convicted felon, and engaging in monetary transactions derived from a specified unlawful activity, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), and Title 18, United States Code, Section 1957, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

On February 2, 2022, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at VERDIN’s home and recovered over a kilogram of fentanyl and four firearms.  VERDIN admitted he possessed the fentanyl with intent to distribute same.  He also admitted that he possessed the firearms knowing he had prior felony convictions that prohibited him from possessing a firearm.

During the investigation, law enforcement learned that on March 20, 2021, VERDIN used proceeds from a fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan to purchase a Lincoln MKZ for $28,000.

VERDIN is scheduled to be sentenced on November 20, 2024.  On the narcotics charge, VERDIN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  For the felon in possession of firearms charge, VERDIN faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release.  On the money laundering charge, VERDIN faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person, and up to three (3) years of supervised release. As to each charge, VERDIN also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

This case 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, as well as the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, Houma Police Department, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that, on August 9, 2024, JOSEPH HAROLD WEST, JR. (“WEST”), a resident of St. Tammany Parish, and CHASE DUNCAN CAMPBELL (“CAMPBELL”), a resident of Cobb County, Georgia, were indicted for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343.  WEST was also charged with three counts of wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.   

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

If convicted of conspiracy (Count 1), WEST and CAMPBELL each face a maximum sentence of five (5) years in prison, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to the victim, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.   

If convicted of wire fraud (Counts 2 through 4), for each count WEST faces a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years in prison, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.    

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JAMAUR JOHNSON a/k/a Jamal Johnson (“JOHNSON”), age 36, of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 7, 2024, before United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance to four counts of being a convicted felon in possession of firearms and ammunition and one count of being a convicted felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

As part of “Operation Big Easy,” agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives identified individuals who were involved in trafficking firearms within the City of New Orleans.  Agents conducted multiple undercover purchases of firearms from JOHNSON between August 30, 2023, and October 26, 2023.

JOHNSON is scheduled to be sentenced on November 20, 2024.  On each count, JOHNSON faces up to fifteen (15) 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.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TONYA BUTLER (“BUTLER”), of Slidell, La., age 55, was sentenced on August 5, 2024, to four years of probation and 150 hours of community service by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey for making false statements to the Railroad Retirement Board, in violation of Title 45, United States Code, Section 359(a).

According to court records, from January 2022 to April 2022, BUTLER made false statements to the Railroad Retirement Board to obtain sickness benefits.  In truth, BUTLER was working full-time for an interstate trucking company.  Her false statements caused a loss of approximately $7,345.52. BUTLER also received short term disability benefits and COVID-19 related funds, to which she was not entitled, in the approximate amount of $62,000.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Amtrak – Office of Inspector General and the Railroad Retirement Board - Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TRAVIS JACKSON (“JACKSON”), age 34, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 6, 2024, before United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion, to conspiring to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a gun, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made several controlled purchases of drugs from JACKSON and his co-defendant.  The FBI then conducted wire intercepts of two phones belonging to the co-defendant.  During the wiretaps, the FBI heard multiple calls related to drug trafficking, including calls with buyers, calls with other larger-scale dealers, and calls warning other dealers of police activity.  The FBI later executed search warrants, arresting the co-defendant with a gun and fentanyl and, also, arresting JACKSON with a gun.  JACKSON’s prior felony convictions prohibit him from possessing a firearm.

Judge Papillion set sentencing for November 12, 2024.  On the drug conspiracy count, JACKSON faces a mandatory minimum of five years and a maximum of forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000 and, at least four years of supervised release.  On the felon in possession of a firearm count, JACKSON faces a maximum of fifteen years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.  As to each count, he also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller, Senior Litigation Counsel and PSN Coordinator.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ROMERO MORRIS (“MORRIS”), age 34, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, pled guilty on April 4, 2024, to Counts 4, 5, 9, 10, and 11 of the indictment pending against him announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

Count 4 charged MORRIS with possession, with the intent to distribute, cocaine and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(b)(1)(C) and (b)(1)(D).  Count 5 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).  Count 9 charged him with possession, with the intent to distribute, approximately 40 grams or more of fentanyl and, a quantity of methamphetamine and cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(b)(1)(B) and (C).  Count 10 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  Finally, Count 11 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). 

On August 6, 2024, United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced MORRIS to a total of 160 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release and a $500.00 mandatory special assessment fee.  This sentence included a term of 100 months as to Counts 4, 5, 9, and 10 and 60 consecutive months as to Count 11.

During this investigation, MORRIS was identified as a large-scale distributor of fentanyl, heroin, and marijuana during 2022 and 2023.  Law enforcement authorities also conducted search warrants at his residence and located drugs and firearms on several occasions.

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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, the Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole, and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Department.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 1, 2024, SILVIO MARTIN MENDOZA SANCHEZ (“MENDOZA SANCHEZ”), age 44, a citizen of Nicaragua, was indicted on August 1, 2024, for making false statements in an application for a United States passport, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1542.

According to court documents, on or about May 25, 2024, MENDOZA SANCHEZ used the identity information of a Puerto Rican citizen to apply for a United States passport.  If convicted, ALVARO faces up to 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

U. S. Attorney Evans 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 Department of State, Diplomatic Security Service.  Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RENIC PALMER, JR. (“PALMER”), age 24, of New Orleans, pled guilty on August 1, 2024, before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to making or using false writings or documents to the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(3).

According to court documents, PALMER, to obtain a Payroll Protection Program (“PPP”) Loan, submitted false writings and documents to the SBA.  In his application, among other things, PALMER falsely represented that he was the owner of a merchant wholesale hair supply company formed in 2017 and that he was eligible for PPP funds.  As a result of these false representations, PALMER obtained $20,832.00 from the SBA.

PALMER faces up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, and restitution to the SBA for his conduct.  Sentencing has been scheduled before Judge Barbier on November 7, 2024. 

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.

U.S. Attorney Evans commended the Special Agents of the Coast Guard Investigative Service for their work on this case.  Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that HENRY MICHAEL ROBIN (“ROBIN”), age 29, a resident of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, was indicted today for Receipt of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1).  ROBIN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release of up to three years and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

According to a criminal complaint filed in the case, on July 16, 2024, Homeland Security Special Agents executed a search warrant at ROBIN’S residence and found that ROBIN had electronically received and possessed images of a minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.

U.S. Attorney Evans 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 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 case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Apache Junction Arizona Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – WILLIAM LEONELL LOPEZ (“LOPEZ”), age 37, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on August 1, 2024, after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  He was sentenced to time served.  He had been incarcerated since September of 2023.

According to court documents, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (“JPSO”) detectives provided biographical information for LOPEZ to Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).  Specifically, JPSO detectives provided the name, date of birth, and a picture of LOPEZ, enabling ICE to verify that he is Honduran, who had been previously removed from the United States to Honduras on June 19, 2009.  On September 5, 2023, LOPEZ was arrested in River Ridge, LA.

Extensive  database checks indicated that LOPEZ re-entered the United States without permission, inspection, or parole by an immigration officer and without the express consent of the United States Attorney General or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security for readmission to the United States and was encountered in the Eastern District of Louisiana by law enforcement.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the 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.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOHN M. SPIVEY (“SPIVEY”), age 53, of New Orleans, pled guilty on July 30 to a conspiracy to commit health care fraud.

According to court documents, SPIVEY conspired with his codefendant, JAMIE P. McNAMARA (“McNAMARA”), age 48, of Missouri, to defraud Medicare by billing for cancer genetic testing and cardiovascular genetic testing that was ineligible for Medicare reimbursement.  The testing was ineligible because it was not medically necessary and was procured through the payment of illegal kickbacks and bribes.  McNAMARA, with the assistance of SPIVEY, operated several laboratories, that obtained doctors’ orders for genetic testing from telemarketers and call centers that used aggressive telemarketing campaigns to induce Medicare beneficiaries to agree to receive genetic testing.  Orders for genetic testing were signed by purported telemedicine doctors who were neither the beneficiaries’ treating physicians, nor performed the consultations with the beneficiaries, or even followed up with the beneficiaries post-testing.  According to court records, from November 2018 through July 2020, the laboratories operated by McNAMARA submitted over $174 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for genetic testing and received over $55 million in reimbursements. McNAMARA is set for trial in February of 2025.

United States District Judge Darrel J. Papillion is scheduled to sentence SPIVEY on April 15, 2025.  At sentencing, SPIVEY faces up to ten years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, as well as a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to any defendant or loss to any person.  SPIVEY also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant Chief Justin Woodard and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters, both of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, Healthcare Fraud Coordinator for the Eastern District of Louisiana, are prosecuting the case.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on July 30, 2024, TROY LOCKE, age 34 of New Orleans, pled guilty on July 30, 2024, before United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to a superseding indictment charging LOCKE with various gun and drug violations.  

Counts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7 of that indictment charged LOCKE with distributing cocaine base, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C).  Count 5 charged LOCKE with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c).  Count 8 and 9 charged LOCKE with being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1).

According to public records, the drug charges stemmed from controlled purchases of crack cocaine that the ATF conducted on July 25, 2023, July 28, 2023, August 4, 2023, August 8, 2023, August 11, 2023, August 17, 2023.  All the purchases were recorded.  LOCKE had a gun in his lap during the August 8, 2023 purchase.  During the August 17, 2023, crack cocaine deal charged in Count 7, the ATF undercover agent asked about buying guns from LOCKE.  LOCKE declined to sell the pistol he had during the August 8, 2023, crack cocaine sale, saying he could not be without it.  Not long after the August 17, 2023, deal, however, LOCKE called and said he had a rifle that he could sell.  The ATF agent agreed and then met with LOCKE at the same place where the crack cocaine sale had just occurred.  LOCKE sold the ATF agent an AR style rifle for $1,000.  The ATF executed a search warrant at LOCKE’s residence on August 18, 2023, and found him in possession of two more firearms.

 As  to Counts 1, 2, 3, 4, 6, and 7 LOCKE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  As to Count 5, LOCKE faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years up to life that must run consecutively to all other sentences, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  As to Counts 8 and 9, LOCKE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  All counts require payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  United States Attorney David Haller, Senior Litigation Counsel and PSN Coordinator, handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that IRVIN J. LEFERE, JR. (“LEFERE”), age 38, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance on July 31, 2024, to being a felon in possession of a firearm. 

According to court documents, on or about July 13, 2022, LEFERE, knowing that he had previously been convicted of a crime punishable by a term of imprisonment exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol.  Members of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) responded to a 911 call for assistance in Venetian Isles, Louisiana.  A citizen reported that LEFERE had been carrying a firearm.  NOPD officers recovered the firearm from the scene and eventually turned the gun over to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.         

LEFERE faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  Sentencing has been scheduled before Judge Vance for November 6, 2024.

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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JAMAR MCGOWAN (“MCGOWAN”), age 30, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced on July 31, 2024, to 235 months imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to violations of the Federal Control Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act.  Specifically, MCGOWAN pled guilty to maintaining a drug involved premises, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 856; conspiring to use firearms in furtherance of a drug conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o); and being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).  Each sentence was ordered to run concurrently with each other.  He was also sentenced to serve 3 years of supervised release after his release from prison and pay a mandatory $300 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, in 2018, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated several acts of violence and narcotics trafficking in Bogalusa, Louisiana.  Agents determined that MCGOWAN and others were members and associates of an organization that conspired to distribute controlled substances.  Members of this group also possessed, used, carried, and discharged numerous firearms to further their drug trafficking and other crimes of violence.  Specifically, from 2017 to the present, their firearm activities were designed to protect their drug turf, retaliate against rival neighborhood drug groups, and maintain and increase their status in the group and in the City of Bogalusa.

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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Bogalusa Police Department.

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KAMILA HORAKOVA DUDLEY (“DUDLEY”), age 43, of Silver Spring, Maryland, pled guilty on July 30, 2024, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to misprision of a felony, namely, wire fraud, in violation of Title18, United States Code, Section 4. 

According to court documents, DUDLEY was employed by Company A from September 2008 through March 2023; and, from March 2017 through November 2018, she served as Company A’s office manager.  As Company A’s office manager, DUDLEY, among other things, prepared and submitted Company A’s invoices for payment. 

In approximately March 2017, Company A subcontracted with Company B to provide onsite support services at the Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES) facility in New Orleans, Louisiana.  Company A, by and through multiple employees, committed wire fraud by knowingly submitting materially false invoices to Company B, knowing that Company B would, in turn, present the false information to the United States for payment.  From March 2017 through November 2018, Company A billed the United States, through Company B, for services not provided.  The fraudulent invoices included the names of Company A’s executives, who performed no work at MARFORRES.  The fraudulent invoices also included the names of certain individuals who worked full-time on a separate contract at a separate facility and, thus, performed no work at MARFORRES.  Because neither Company B nor the United States was aware of the fraudulent nature of the invoices, Company A was paid approximately $1,300,000 under the subcontract.  

Despite having knowledge of these events, that constituted wire fraud, DUDLEY did not make known the information and, further, attempted to conceal it.  For example, on or about October 31, 2017, DUDLEY was notified by one of her colleagues that Company A’s cost submissions contained the names of individuals who worked on a separate contract and who performed no work at MARFORRES.  DUDLEY did not make that information known, including the fact that prior invoices containing those names were false and fraudulent.  DUDLEY resumed the preparation and submission of Company A’s invoices, removed only the challenged names, and concealed the fraudulent nature of the earlier submissions. 

DUDLEY faces a maximum term of imprisonment of three (3) years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, and restitution to the United States Department of the Navy for her conduct.  Sentencing has been scheduled before Judge Guidry on October 29, 2024. 

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the special agents of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, and members of the Defense Contract Audit Agency.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Andre Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on July 23, 2024, DEVIN JUNEAU, age 38, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, pled guilty to manufacturing and dealing in explosive materials without a license, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 842(a)(1) and 844(a)(1).

According to court documents, on or about February 6, 2024, JUNEAU manufactured, and sold to undercover agents, M-Type explosive devices containing explosive materials, without possessing a license to engage in the business of manufacturing and dealing in explosive materials.

At sentencing, JUNEAU, faces up to 10 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.  JUNEAU also faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MELISSA J. WATSON (“WATSON”), of Slidell, has been sentenced by United States District Judge Darrel J. Papillion to twelve months and one day in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, a mandatory $100 special assessment fee, and payment of restitution totaling $1,281,818.

This sentencing followed WATSON’s previous plea of guilty to theft of public money, in connection with a scheme to misappropriate over $780,000 from the Provider Relief Fund (“PRF”).  The PRF was a COVID-19 pandemic relief program administered by the Health Resources and Services Administration.

According to court documents, WATSON operated a primary care clinic.  Following the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, WATSON submitted false and fraudulent attestations on behalf of her clinic to obtain PRF funds, to which she was not entitled.  WATSON’s fraudulent attestations included falsely affirming that funds would only be used by the clinic to prevent, prepare for, and respond to the coronavirus, and reimburse health care related expenses or lost revenues attributable to coronavirus.  Instead, WATSON used the PRF funds for personal purposes, including making numerous cash withdrawals and purchasing, among other items, hundreds of thousands of dollars in real estate, a luxury vehicle, a boat, a trailer, and a time share.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General.

Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters and Assistant Chief Justin Woodard, both of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, Healthcare Fraud Coordinator for the Eastern District of Louisiana, prosecuted the case.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LORENZO ALEXANDER BENITEZ (“BENITEZ”), age 40, a citizen of El Salvador, pleaded guilty on July 23, 2024, to illegal reentry of a deported alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a).

According to the court documents, BENITEZ admitted to reentering the United States illegally after being previously deported on July 27, 2018. 

BENITEZ faces a sentence of up to 2 years imprisonment, up to 1 year of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan has set the sentencing for November 7, 2024.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Patrol 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 – KENNETH TATE (“TATE”), age 43, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on July 25, 2024, before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe, to a violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, law enforcement conducted surveillance near Tara Lane in New Orleans East when they saw TATE, armed with a rifle, as he stood in the breezeway of an apartment building.  The officers observed as TATE conducted a hand-to-hand drug transaction, while armed with that rifle.  When  officers moved in to arrest TATE, he fled into the apartment complex, and entered a particular apartment.  Police surrounded the apartment, and TATE eventually surrendered.  During a subsequent search of the apartment, the police found the rifle and another handgun.  TATE had prior felony convictions that prohibited him from possessing a firearm.

Judge Ashe set sentencing for October 24, 2024.  TATE faces a maximum term of 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. 

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

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller, Senior Litigation Counsel and PSN Coordinator.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LOVON WHITE (“WHITE”), age 21, of Slidell, Louisiana, was charged on July 26, 2024, in a three-count indictment.  WHITE is charged in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute tapentadol and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D).  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).  Finally, 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, WHITE faces up to 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 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 up to 10 years in prison, up to a $ 250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to the indictment, on or about June 12, 2024, WHITE possessed tapentadol and marijuana with the intent to distribute those substances.  WHITE also possessed an Anderson Manufacturing Model AM-15 rifle and Glock Model 21 pistol, both equipped with machinegun conversion devices, in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.

U.S. Attorney Evans 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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.