Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DEAN MEILLEUR, age 57, a resident of Slidell, La., was charged on March 13, 2024, with making or using false writings or documents to the United States Small Business Adminstration (SBA), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(3).

According to the charging document, MEILLEUR, to obtain Economic Impact Disaster Loans (“EIDL”), submitted false writings and documents to the SBA. In his EIDL applications, among other things, MEILLEUR falsely represented that he was the owner of a trucking business formed in 2017 and that he was eligible for EIDL funds. As a result of these false submissions, MEILLEUR obtained $147,400 from SBA. 

MEILLEUR faces up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation 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, LA – On March 14, 2024, United States District Court Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced LAIRD JOHNSON, age 25, of New Orleans, to 57 months imprisonment for theft of a firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee, possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a stolen firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, during a search of JOHNSON’s home on August 10, 2021, three firearms were recovered, including a Zastava Arms 7.62 Rifle, a Glock Model 19, 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, and ammunition as well as a Glock Model 19X, 9-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, which was stolen from a Federal Firearms licensee. He further possessed a firearm on July 23, 2021. JOHNSON is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his previous felony convictions in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court for aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and simple burglary.

Judge Brown also sentenced JOHNSON to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and a $500 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 New Orleans Police Department, and the Kenner Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JUAN MATTHEWS, age 22, of New Orleans, pled guilty on March 13, 2024, to Counts 3 through 5 of an indictment charging him with possession with the intent to distribute marijuana and tapentadol, in violation of 21 U.S.C. Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) (Count 3); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. Section 924(C)(1)(a)(i) (Count 4); and possession of a machine gun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. Section  922(o) and 924(a)(2) (Count 5).

As to Count 3, MATTHEWS faces up to twenty years imprisonment , up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release. As to Count 4, MATTHEWS faces between five years up to life imprisonment, which must run consecutive to any other sentence, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release. As to Count 5, MATTHEWS faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each charged count, MATTHEWS also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. MATTHEWS is set for sentencing on June 26, 2024.

According to court documents, on May 18, 2023, members of the New Orleans Police Department observed a black Audi sport utility vehicle (SUV) matching the description of a vehicle used in a shooting. Officers pursued the SUV and observed three black males, including MATTHEWS, abandon the SUV and flee, after which officers successfully apprehended MATTHEWS. During the pursuit of MATTHEWS, officers saw him throw down a Glock with a machinegun conversion device, making it, functionally, a machine gun. Upon apprehension, MATTHEWS was in possession of marijuana, tapentadol, and drug paraphernalia.

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ERNEST GREEN, age 55, a New Orleans resident, pleaded guilty on March 13, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), and being a 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.

According to court documents, in September 2020, the Federal Bureau Investigation - New Orleans Gang Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department investigated GREEN for his involvement in a drug distribution operation. The investigation involved numerous controlled purchases of cocaine from GREEN. Additionally, agents executed a search warrant at GREEN’s residence that yielded 28.7 grams of cocaine and two illegal firearms.

For the cocaine charge, GREEN faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, at least three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. For the firearms charge, GREEN faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years of supervised release, 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 U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation - New Orleans Gang Task Force, with the assistance of the New Orleans Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, led the investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TRE AUTHEMENT age 25 and a resident of  Lafourche Parish, was sentenced on March 13, 2024 to  200 months in prison by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, after previously pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and quantities of heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A) and possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c).                                                                                                 

This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is 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 United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that HUGO BRIAN FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS (“FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS”), age 27, was sentenced on March 12, 2024 by United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion to 14 months imprisonment, after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a). Additionally, the court sentenced FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS to 1 year of supervised release and the payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, FUENTAS-EGUIGURENS reentered the United States after being previously deported on April 26, 2019. On or about April 1, 2023, FUENTES-EGUIGURENS, was found to be unlawfully present in Jefferson Parish, Louisiana based on an Immigration Alien Query. Federal authorities placed an immigration detainer on FUENTES-EGUIGURENS after his arrest by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office on March 31, 2023.  Records revealed that FUENTES-EGUIGURENS has been arrested for numerous crimes, and had convictions for simple escape, and resisting an officer.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that ALAN RONEY MATUTE-MENDOZA, a/k/a “Allan M. Matute,” a/k/a “Alan Mendoza,” a/k/a “Jonathan Ramos Mendoza,” age 37, a native of Honduras, pled guilty on March 12, 2024 to illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), and illegal use of a Social Security Number, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

According to court records, MATUTE-MENDOZA reentered the United States after being previously deported on June 19, 2017. For this offense, MATUTE-MENDOZA faces up to two years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to one year of supervised release, and payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Additionally, on or about June 25, 2021, MATUTE-MENDOZA was found to be illegally using a social security number that was not his. For this offense, MATUTE-MENDOZA faces up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.   

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Office of the Inspector General for the Social Security Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – CLARENCE “BILLY” BURKETTE, age 55, a resident of Slaughter, La., was sentenced on March 13, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, to 6 months imprisonment, 2 years of supervised release, a mandatory $100 special assessment fee, and the payment of $598,196.25 in restitution to the victim of this offense, the Town of Pearl River, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.   

According to court documents, BURKETTE had previously pleaded guilty to wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, and admitted to defrauding the Town of Pearl River in connection with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance Program (PAC). The PAC provides grants for state, territorial, tribal, and local governments, and certain non-profit organizations. The PAC is administered in Louisiana by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP). BURKETTE, who contracted to provide the Town of Pearl River disaster assistance services, misrepresented, among other things, the amount of public assistance grant funds for which the Town of Pearl River was eligible. BURKETTE also misrepresented to the Town of Pearl River that his own fees would be reimbursed by FEMA.    

U.S. Attorney Evans commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General, the IRS-Criminal Investigation, and the District Attorney’s Office, 22nd Judicial District, for their handling of the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit and J. Benjamin Myers of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that NIPUN DESAI, formerly of Hammond, La., but now a California resident, age 55, was charged on March 8, 2024, with   making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

On March 27, 2020, the President of the United States signed into law the CARES Act, which provided emergency assistance, administered by the United States Small Business Administration (SBA), to small business owners affected by the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The two primary sources of funding for small businesses were the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) program.

According to the charging document,on or about April 2, 2021, DESAI made false statements to an approved lender regarding a closed hotel in order to obtain an SBA backed PPP loan for $146,947.50.  At the time of the loan application, DESAI’s hotel had no employees or payroll.

DESAI faces up to five years in prison for making the false statements , a fine of up to $250,000,  up to three years of supervised release, and the payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  

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

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.

As part of the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Task Force, this investigation was conducted by U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General. 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.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs - Office of Inspector General, the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Bankruptcy Trustee’s Office (Region 5) in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – AMARYD DOWNING, age 37, of Hahnville, La. pled guilty on March 5, 2024 to three (3) counts of distribution of a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl,in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on May 8, May 11, and May 22, 2023,  St. Charles Parish detectives conducted an investigation during which they made controlled purchases of gram quantities of drugs from DOWNING in the Hahnville area. The drugs from each purchase tested positive for fentanyl and heroin. After making the controlled purchases, detectives arrested DOWNING.

If convicted, DOWNING faces a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, at least three (3) years of supervised release and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.

This case was investigated by the federal Drug Enforcement Agency and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA- MICHAEL WILLIAMS, age 28, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on March 5, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Darrel J. Papillion to 59 months imprisonment to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

According to court documents, on January 10, 2023, WILLIAMS and three other individuals were standing near the intersection of North Broad and Hope streets at the edge of the Seventh Ward. When NOPD detectives drove by in an unmarked vehicle, the individuals backed up and clutched at their waistbands, indicating to the detectives that they possessed concealed firearms. Marked NOPD units were called to the area and, upon seeing the police vehicles, WILLIAMS fled and during the pursuit by an NOPD officer. WILLIAMS removed a Glock Model 43 handgun, that was concealed on his person, and discarded it on the ground.

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. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA- NORMAN ANDREWS, age 24, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on March 5, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey, after previously pleading guilty to charges in a multi-count indictment.

ANDREWS was sentenced to 78 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee for his convictions for possession of a car stolen from the Norfolk Southern Railyard, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659; 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); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

According to court documents, ANDREWS was arrested, following a brief chase, on February 11, 2023 in the French Quarter by a New Orleans Police Department officer. When ANDREWS was finally apprehended, he possessed a Glock Model 19x firearm with a loaded, extended magazine containing 31 rounds, a black ski mask, two blister packs of tapentadol, two bags of marijuana, and over $2,000 in cash.

On March 27, 2023, a Ford Explorer Timberline was stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility. Andrews was observed on surveillance video driving the Ford Explorer, two days after it was stolen.

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 Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – HAROLD DECLOUET (“DECLOUET”), age 22, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on March 6, 2024 before U.S. District Judge Jane T. Milazzo to four counts of federal drug and weapons violations.

DECLOUET pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of cocaine base, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, marijuana, and tramadol, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 841(b)(2); and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

According to court documents, DECLOUET made two sales of cocaine base to a confidential informant for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in February of 2022.  A few months later, in May of 2022, DECLOUET was arrested with cocaine base, marijuana, tramadol pills, over $1,000 in cash, and a Glock Model 19 handgun loaded with 31 rounds of ammunition.

With respect to his convictions for distribution of cocaine and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, DECLOUET faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a minimum of three years of supervised release on each count. With respect to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, DECLOUET faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to life in prison, which is to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Each count also carries 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, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA -- U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JULIO A. GONZALEZ, JR.( GONZALEZ), age 26, of Chalmette, La., was sentenced on March 6, 2024 by United States District Judge Lance M. Africk, to three months in jail, a $100 mandatory special assessment fee and payment of $23,433.85 in restitution after previously pleading guilty to making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), in violation of  Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001.

The CARES Act established several new temporary programs and provided for the expansion of others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) which authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers, maintain payroll and other business-related expenses. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the loan to be forgiven if the loan proceeds are spent on these expense items within a designated period of time and uses at least a certain percentage of the proceeds on payroll expenses.

Specifically, GONZALEZ pled guilty to making false statements to an approved lender to  fraudulently obtain a PPP loan. As a result, he received a PPP loan totaling approximately $20,832.00. GONZALEZ stated in his application that he was an independent contractor impacted by the pandemic when, in truth, he had no such business.

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 Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Irene González of the General Crimes Unit is charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA- United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TYRIQUE RICHARDS, age 27, of Violet, La., was indicted on March 8, 2024, for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D), and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

 The indictment alleges that on February 27, 2024, RICHARDS, possessed cocaine and marijuana with the intent to distribute, a handgun in furtherance of that drug trafficking offense, and a weight scale.

If convicted of possession with intent to distribute, RICHARDS faces a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three (3) years of supervised release. If convicted of possession a firearm in furtherance of  a drug trafficking crime, he faces a minimum of five (5) years and a maximum of life imprisonment, which must be served consecutively with  any other count, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five (5) years of supervised release.  RICHARDS also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $200.00.

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.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA - United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MALI WILLIAMS, age 25, of Violet, La., was indicted on March 8, 2024 for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and tapentadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and  being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, WILLIAMS was previously convicted of felony offenses in St. Bernard Parish.  Due to his criminal history, he is prohibited from having a firearm.  He is now charged with possessing a firearm on October 12, 2023.  Moreover, WILLIAMS is alleged to have possessed marijuana and tapentadol with the intent to distribute, as well as firearm possession in furtherance of that drug trafficking offense.

If convicted of possession with intent to distribute, WILLIAMS faces a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three (3) years of supervised release.  If convicted of possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, he faces a minimum of five (5) years and a maximum of life imprisonment, which must be served consecutively with any other count, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five (5) years of supervised release.  If convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, he faces a maximum of fifteen (15) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release.  For each count of conviction, WILLIAMS faces a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

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.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – MIGUEL KEELEN, age 35, of Harvey, La., was indicted on March 8, 2024 for 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 the indictment, KEELEN possessed a firearm on the night of December 11, 2023.  While at  the Valero Gas Station on  2013 South Claiborne Avenue in New Orleans, KEELEN displayed and drew a pistol from his waistband before concealing the pistol and fleeing from police.  KEELEN was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his previous felony convictions.  If convicted, 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.

United States 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.

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 Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RANDY BROWN, JR., age 31, a resident of Gretna, La., was indicted on March 8, 2024 on four-counts including, unlawful delay of U.S. Mail matter by a postal employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1703(a) and theft of U.S. Mail matter by a postal employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.

According to Count One, between on or about July of 2022, through October 4, 2022, BROWN unlawfully secreted, detained, and delayed U.S. mail entrusted to him as a postal employee.  If convicted, BROWN faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to Counts Two through Four, on September 26, 2022, September 27, 2022, and October 3, 2022, BROWN did knowingly embezzle, steal, abstract, and remove checks from U.S. mail entrusted to him as a postal employee.  If convicted, BROWN faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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 United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TIMOTHY MCMILLAN, JR., age 43, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on March 5, 2024 to Theft of Mail by a Postal Service employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.

According to court documents, the U.S. Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (“USPS-OIG”) received complaints regarding opened parcels that were delivered by the New Orleans Main Office Delivery Unit. On October 11, 2023, USPS-OIG Special Agents placed a greeting card containing $100 in mail to be processed and delivered by MCMILLAN while on his route. The card was addressed to a fictitious person and address from another fictitious person and address. While on his route, MCMILLAN opened the package. Shortly after, USPS-OIG Special Agents stopped his vehicle and observed the opened card in the rear of his vehicle. The marked bills were found on his person.  

MCMILLAN faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. United States Chief District Judge Greg G. Guidry has set sentencing for June 11, 2024.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. 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 BASHIR SCHOFIELD (SCHOFIELD), age 24, a resident of LaPlace, La., was sentenced on March 5, 2024 by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to 4 years’ probation, after previously pleading guilty to wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. SCHOFIELD participated in the preparation and filing of false applications for loans related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). SCHOFIELD was also ordered to pay $282,650 in restitution, jointly and severally, with two relatives, Munira Schofield and Lynn Schofield (RELATIVES), who were charged separately and to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  

According to court documents, BASHIR SCHOFIELD, and his RELATIVES, submitted applications to fraudulently obtain money from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster (EIDL) loans. SCHOFIELD and his RELATIVES submitted loan applications  falsely representing that the applicant had a sole proprietorship and generated substantial income from that business. The false representations included, overinflating the business’s gross receipts, and claiming the loan proceeds were for business purposes when, in fact, the proceeds were for the defendants’ personal purposes. Indeed, the entities either did not even exist or earned far less money than SCHOFIELD and his RELATIVES represented. 

For example, on about April 14, 2021, SCHOFIELD completed and submitted a false PPP loan application in the name of an entity he claimed to control, “Vison Six, LLC.”  SCHOFIELD falsely stated in the application that his gross income from Vison Six in 2019 was $100,000 and that the money would be used for business-related purposes. In fact, Vison Six was not incorporated until November 2020, performed no business, and had no gross receipts in 2019.  As a result of the fraudulent application, SCHOFIELD received approximately $20,833.  Additionally, SCHOFIELD and his RELATIVES  collectively submitted false applications for several other entities, including “AfroTouch, Inc.,” “Afromerica Touch 360, LLC,” and “Just Jocin.”

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 Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, was in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that KILEY KILBOURNE, age 50, of Bogalusa, La. was sentenced on February 29, 2024 by U.S. Chief District Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown to 366 days incarceration, after previously pleading guilty to possession with the intent to distribute heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Judge Brown also imposed a three-year term of supervised release following imprisonment as well as a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, in January 2021, KILBOURNE was found to be transporting over a kilogram of heroin across state lines, from Houston, Texas into the Eastern District of Louisiana.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Agency and the Louisiana State Police. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that ALEJANDRO AGUILAR-RAMOS, age 30, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced on February 27, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 78 months incarceration, after previously pleading guilty to  conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute, 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. Judge Vitter also ordered a three-year term of supervised release following imprisonment and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, in March of 2023, AGUILAR-RAMOS knowingly conspired and agreed with others to pick up a bag containing over 9 kilograms of methamphetamine in Dallas, Texas, then work with others to transport the bag and the narcotics within, from Texas to Kenner, Louisiana.

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

United States Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Kenner Police Department.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that TRACY DAVIS, age 51, of Kentwood, LA, was sentenced on February 27, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Jay C Zainey to 51 months incarceration, after previously pleading guilty to one (1) count of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841, one (1) count of Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), and one (1) count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). Judge Zainey also ordered a three-year term of supervised release following imprisonment.

According to court documents, DAVIS was prohibited from possessing a firearm due to a previous felony conviction. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Hammond Police Department began investigating DAVIS due to a complaint that DAVIS was distributing narcotics in the Kentwood area. A search warrant was obtained for two residences and a vehicle associated with DAVIS, that resulted in the seizure of cocaine and multiple firearms from within the residences and vehicle.

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

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Hammond Police Department.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that MICHELLE ANDRE, a resident and doctor in Houma pled guilty to a one-count bill of information on February 29, 2024 before United States District Judge Barry Ashe, to distributing misbranded drugs in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 331. 

According to court documents, from April 2018 through March 2023, ANDRE introduced misbranded drugs, including Depo-Provera, into interstate commerce. The Depo-Provera lacked adequate directions for use in its labeling. 

ANDRE faces a maximum term of up to one year imprisonment and one year of supervised release. Sentencing before Judge Ashe is scheduled for June 6, 2024.

“Selling illegal prescription drugs, particularly sterile injectable products, in the U.S. marketplace puts all consumers’ health at risk,” said Justin Fielder, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Miami Field Office. “We will continue to pursue and bring to justice those who jeopardize the public’s health.”

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Food and Drug Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit and Paul Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ALSKIIN MILLICAN, age 21, of Madisonville, Louisiana, pled guilty on February 29, 2024, to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act before United States District Judge Susie Morgan.

MILLICAN pled guilty to Count 1 of the indictment that charged him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute, 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. MILLICAN also pled guilty to Count 4 of the indictment that charged him with distributing and possessing with the 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) and 841(b)(1)(B).

According to court documents, MILLICAN sold 1000 fentanyl pills to an undercover agent on September 15, 2023.

For both Counts 1 and 4, MILLICAN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. MILLICAN’s sentencing is set for June 4, 2024.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JAMYREN RICHARD, age 23, of Raceland, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 29, 2024, after previously pleading guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), and 924(a)(2).  

According to court records, on March 26, 2021, RICHARD was a passenger in a vehicle that was pulled over by the Harahan Police Department. During the traffic stop, officers located two loaded firearms inside the vehicle and RICHARD admitted that he possessed both firearms.

On June 15, 2021, RICHARD was observed fleeing from a car that was being pursued by the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. RICHARD fled while carrying a semiautomatic rifle, entered a female’s home, and hid the rifle under the master bed mattress. RICHARD admitted he possessed three firearms knowing he had a prior felony conviction.

As to both counts of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, RICHARD was sentenced to 77 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release upon release from imprisonment, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Harahan Police Department, and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TORY DUNCAN (“DUNCAN”), age 29, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on February 28, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, to 144 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to Counts 4 and 5 of a superseding indictment. Judge Milazzo also ordered that DUNCAN be placed on supervised release for five years following release from imprisonment and a pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court records, on March 24, 2022, members of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) responded to an anonymous tip of a man carrying a firearm in the River Garden neighborhood. Upon arrival at the 1900 block of St. Thomas Street, officers observed DUNCAN who then fled. DUNCAN jumped a fence with a black semi-automatic firearm in hand and ran to a nearby parking lot where he was caught and arrested by police. The officers recovered the firearm, a Glock Model 29, 10-millimeter pistol; $2,029 in U.S. currency; and a vehicle key fob from DUNCAN. The vehicle key fob corresponded to a gray Infiniti sedan in the parking lot where officers initially encountered DUNCAN. After searching the Infiniti, the officers discovered and seized 78.66 grams of fentanyl, 1002 multi-colored pills found to contain methamphetamine, 35 pills of Oxycodone, a digital scale, razor blades, loose plastic bags, and paperwork bearing DUNCAN’s name.

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.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on February 29, 2024, SHAUN CHAPMAN (“CHAPMAN”), age 38, was sentenced by the United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to forty (40) months imprisonment. CHAPMAN previously pleaded guilty to mailing threatening communications, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 876(c).

According to court documents, CHAPMAN mailed a letter to the Robert Nixon Federal Courthouse in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania that contained threats to the President and Vice-President of the United States, Supreme Court justices, and Department of Justice employees. A U.S. Secret Service investigation revealed that the letter was mailed from the Orleans Justice Center where CHAPMAN was incarcerated on unrelated charges.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DESMOND TAYLOR, age 27, QUINTRELL BROWN, age 20, NICKIE WHITLEY, age 35, and ERIN MURTHIL, age 21, all residents of New Orleans, were sentenced on February 27, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey after previously pleading guilty to multiple charges in a 20-count indictment.

TAYLOR was sentenced to 72 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee for his convictions for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), and possession of a car stolen from the Norfolk Southern Railyard, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659.

BROWN was also sentenced to 72 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee for his convictions for conspiracy to possess cars stolen from the Norfolk Southern Railyard, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371; possession of a car stolen from the Norfolk Southern Railyard, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659; possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

WHITLEY was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $500 mandatory special assessment fee for his convictions for four counts of possessing a car stolen from the Norfolk Southern Railyard, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659, and being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

MURTHIL was sentenced to 65 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee for his convictions for two counts of possessing a car stolen from the Norfolk Southern Railyard, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659, and possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).

According to court documents, TAYLOR possessed a 2023 Ford Explorer Timberline stolen from the Norfolk Southern Railyard and, while inside the stolen vehicle, possessed an American Tactical Model MilSport .223 milli-meter caliber firearm.

BROWN was arrested in the French Quarter on February 11, 2023. When NOPD officers attempted to stop him, he fled and, during the chase, threw a loaded Glock Model 19 handgun into a dumpster. When BROWN was apprehended, he had 60 tapentadol pills and over $2,500 in cash in his pockets. The next month, BROWN was captured on surveillance video occupying the same stolen Ford Explorer Timberline as TAYLOR.  

WHITLEY participated in the theft of vehicles from the Norfolk Southern Railyard and was captured on surveillance video in March and April of 2023 driving multiple stolen vehicles, including a Ford F-150 Raptor. WHITLEY was also captured on video possessing a stolen Glock Model 19x handgun.

MURTHIL possessed two vehicles taken from the Norfolk Southern Railyard.  He was captured on surveillance video driving a stolen Lincoln Aviator, which had a stolen Louisiana military honors license plate affixed to it. While driving the stolen Aviator, MURTHIL took a photograph holding a Glock Model 17 handgun with a machinegun conversion device and drum magazine attached to it. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted a function test of the gun and confirmed that it functioned as a machinegun.

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 Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – JOSHUA BORGES (“BORGES”), age 38 and a resident of New Orleans,  was sentenced on February 28. 2024 by U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier to 2 years probation after BORGES previously pleading guilty to concealment of assets in connection with a bankruptcy, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, on or about April 17, 2018, BORGES knowingly and fraudulently failed to disclose property that belonged to him in a bankruptcy case. Specifically, he knowingly and fraudulently failed to disclose to the trustee charged with control of the debtor’s property and from the creditors and the United States Trustee, $9,000.00 in cash on hand, and his business interest in Elite Enterprise Holding, LLC, which had a value of at least approximately $89,771.08.

In addition to the sentence, BORGES was sentenced to payment of a $5,5000 fine and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. A restitution hearing has been set for May 9, 2024, to determine the loss to the victims in his bankruptcy proceeding.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations, and the Office of the U.S. Trustee for the Eastern District of Louisiana with this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit and Andre Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DATAYNA HOWARD, age 22, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on February 28, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to two counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances—fentanyl, tapentadol, and marijuana—in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D), and two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c).

According to court documents, on January 19, 2022, HOWARD was arrested at the Oakwood Shopping Center in Gretna, La. in possession of fentanyl, marijuana, drug trafficking supplies, and two loaded handguns. On June 8, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at HOWARD’s residence in New Orleans and discovered over 700 tapentadol pills, marijuana, drug trafficking supplies, three handguns, and additional ammunition.

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

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

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MALIK MACK, age 26, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on February 28, 2024 to theft from an interstate shipment and aiding and abetting in that theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 659 and 2.

According to court documents, on the evening of March 29, 2023, MACK and three other suspects entered the Norfolk Southern Railyard, a freight consolidation facility that houses interstate shipments, to steal Ford F-150 Rapture Crew Cab trucks. MACK was apprehended by law enforcement officers and admitted to the crime.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of Norfolk Southern Railway Police, the United States Department of Homeland Security, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOSE MANUEL CHENO, age 55, a citizen of Mexico, pleaded guilty on February 28, 2024 to illegal reentry of a deported alien previously convicted of a felony, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Sections 1326(a)and (b)(2).

According to court documents, JOSE MANUEL CHENO (“CHENO”) admitted to reentering the United States after being previously deported on January 27, 2018. Furthermore, on May 5, 2005, CHENO was convicted of Conspiracy to Possess with the Intent to Distribute Marijuana in United States District Court, District of Arizona.

CHENO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of  twenty (20) years, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

U.S. District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance has set sentencing for June 26, 2024. 

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

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ERIC CHARLES FULLER, age 54, from Springfield, Missouri, was indicted on February 23, 2024 for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2422(b) (Count 1), and interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(b) (Count 2).

According to the indictment, between on or about December 7, 2023, and January 12, 2024, FULLER attempted to persuade and entice an individual he believed to be a twelve-year-old female to engage in illegal and illicit sexual activity. Between January 11, 2024, and January 12, 2024, FULLER travelled from Springfield, Missouri, to Mandeville, Louisiana, by automobile for the purpose of engaging in sexual conduct with the individual FULLER believed to be a twelve-year-old female.

If convicted, FULLER faces a mandatory minimum of ten (10) years in prison up to life in prison as to Count 1 and a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than thirty (30) years as to Count 2. As to each count, FULLER also faces at least five (5) years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. FULLER may also be required to register as a sex offender. 

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

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

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, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on February 22, 2024, HENRY EDGARDO ORTIZ, age 44, was sentenced to three years’ probation for illegally using a social security number, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

According to court documents, ORTIZ, using the name of another individual, applied for a Louisiana Identification Card, issued on May 4, 2018. He applied to a Jefferson Parish Office of Motor Vehicles facility, using the social security number of another individual. The Social Security Administration confirmed that the number had been issued to another individual in Puerto Rico.

In February 2022, ORTIZ, appeared at the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s office to apply for a diversion status on an unrelated charge that he faced. When he presented a Honduran passport, in his own name, to the District Attorney’s office diversion department, they became suspicious and contacted the Department of Homeland Security. After the Department of Homeland Security investigated ORTIZ‘s Louisiana driver’s license paperwork, his fraudulent use of a social security number was revealed. 

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that, on February 20, 2024, ONIS WASHINGTON, age 25, a resident of South Carolina, pled guilty to committing a carjacking, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119, before U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey. WASHINGTON faces a maximum sentence of 15 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00. WASHINGTON’s sentencing is scheduled for May 28, 2024.

On January 2, 2022, in the 1000 block of Carondelet Street, WASHINGTON and his co-defendant forcefully stole a car from the victim and fled in the stolen vehicle. Louisiana State Police and the New Orleans Police Department tracked and located the vehicle, but it refused to stop. Following a chase, WASHINGTON and his co-defendant hit several vehicles and crashed the stolen vehicle, before fleeing on foot. WASHINGTON was later arrested in South Carolina.

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department. The case  is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SHIRLEY HARRIS (“HARRIS”), age 38, of New Orleans, pled guilty on February 20, 2024,  to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.  Today’s guilty plea brings the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” to 48.

According to court documents, HARRIS, and others, conspired to fraudulently stage an automobile collision to obtain money. HARRIS, Antoine Clark “Clark,” and other co-conspirators intentionally collided with a tractor-trailer on April 24, 2017, in the area of Interstate 10 near the Crowder Boulevard exit in New Orleans. HARRIS and Clark made false police reports, filed fraudulent lawsuits, lied during deposition testimony, and sought unnecessary medical treatment to further their fraudulent claims. As part of her plea agreement, HARRIS agreed to pay $10,000.00 in restitution to the insurance company. The Honorable Sarah S. Vance set sentencing in this matter for June 12, 2024.

HARRIS faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years of imprisonment; up to three (3) years of supervised release; and a fine of up to $250,000.00. A $100 mandatory special assessment fee is also applicable.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Maria Carboni, and Edward Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on February 21, 2024, COREY LEWIS, a/k/a “Co,” was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and Hobbs Act Robbery. 

LEWIS previously pled guilty to Counts 1 and 2 of an indictment charging him with conspiracy to interfere and interference with commerce through robbery (Hobbs Act Conspiracy and Hobbs Act Robbery), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951. LEWIS additionally pled guilty to Count 3, charging him with possessing firearms in furtherance of a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). For Counts 1 and 2, LEWIS was sentenced to 96 months imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release. As to Count 3, LEWIS was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, which must run consecutively to the sentences in Counts 1 and 2, as well as five years of supervised release. In total, LEWIS received a sentence of 156 months. LEWIS must also pay a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee for each count.   

According to court documents, in 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated a group responsible for committing violent crimes and illegal drug trafficking, primarily in New Orleans East and the Ninth Ward area of New Orleans. LEWIS, along with nine others, were indicted  for conspiring to possess firearms, traffic drugs and commit armed robberies of drug dealers. LEWIS committed a Hobbs Act robbery with his co-conspirators, during which they victimized a mother and her two-young children by breaking into their house, brandishing firearms, tying  up the mother, and ransacking  the house.          

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, the New Orleans Police Department, and the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crime Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On February 21, 2024, TROY MALBROUGH, age 48, a resident of Lutcher, La., was sentenced to 24-months imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl, a quantity of heroin, and a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846.

According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration began a drug-trafficking investigation into MALBROUGH's organization in 2019. MALBROUGH conspired with others to distribute heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine in the Eastern District of Louisiana.  He also purchased and distributed these same drugs within the district. In 2018, MALBROUGH distributed fentanyl to an individual who later died after ingesting that fentanyl. 

After serving his term of imprisonment, MALBROUGH will be supervised by U.S. Probation for 3 years. MALBROUGH must also pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

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

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that FRANKLYN ORELLANO-VELASQUEZ, a/k/a “Rony Aguilera,” “Rochy Gutierrez,” age 19, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on February 21, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Sarah Vance for possession of ammunition by an illegal alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A).

According to court documents, on September 6, 2023, OERLLANO-VELASQUEZ was arrested for possessing 40 live .223 caliber rounds. Judge Vance sentenced ORELLANO-VELASQUEZ to 17 months in prison and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. ORELLANO-VELASQUEZ will be deported following the completion of his sentence.  

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 Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ALLAN ENRIQUE GOMEZ VILLEDA age 41, a native of Honduras, was indicted on February 23, 2024, for illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the indictment, GOMEZ VILLEDA reentered the United States illegally after being previously deported on May 9, 2019. If convicted, GOMEZ VILLEDA 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. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

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

NEW ORLEANS – JONATHAN JOSE CASTILLO-JANEZ, age 24, was indicted on February 23, 2024 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the indictment, JONATHAN JOSE CASTILLO-JANEZ, (“CASTILLO-JANEZ”) reentered the United States after being  previously deported on June 14, 2017.  If convicted, CASTILLO-JANEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. He faces a sentencing enhancement of up to 10 years imprisonment, because of a prior felony conviction.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Orleans Parish Sherif’s Office 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 – JEAN PAUL SABOGAL-ANGARITA, age 27, plead guilty on February 21, 2024 for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court document, JEAN PAUL SABOGAL-ANGARITA (“SABOGAL-ANGARITA”) is a citizen of Columbia and has no legal right to be in the United States. On  February 18, 2023, SABOGAL-ANGARITA was arrested by Tangipahoa Parish law enforcement officials in Tickfaw, Louisiana for allegedly being involved in a group stealing cell phones during Mardi Gras in New Orleans. SABOGAL-ANGARITA was arrested by federal authorities on June 21, 2023 for the illegal re-entry offense. Research of federal government databases revealed that SABOGAL-ANGARITA had been previously removed from Miami, Florida on September 21, 2016, pursuant to a removal order. He knowingly reentered the U.S. after being removed and was found to be present in the Eastern District of Louisiana without the permission of either the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of Homeland Security.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On February 21, 2024, United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced AARON HENDERSON, age 28, a resident of New Orleans, for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

According to court records, HENDERSON pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm after being convicted of a felony. HENDERSON came to the attention of law enforcement after the New Orleans Police Child Abuse Unit received a video depicting HENDERSON in a residential room with a three-year-old male juvenile. HENDERSON was armed with a Draco 7.62 mm rifle, rapping lyrics to an unknown song. He encouraged the three-year-old to pick up a handgun located under some clothing on the bed, and the three-year-old picked up the handgun and began to waive it around. During all this time, HENDERSON was a convicted felon who was prohibited from possessing firearms.

Judge Vance sentenced HENDERSON to 37 months in prison and three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay 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.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Senior Litigation Counsel David Haller.

NEW ORLEANS – ROSE B. DEMERS, age 68, of Marrero, La., was sentenced on February 22, 2024 by U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier to 18 months of probation after previously pleading guilty to misprision of a felony related to funds received from a fraud victim, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, DEMERS received $8,600 from an out of state fraud victim on or about July 9, 2021. Rather than contact the authorities, DEMERS converted some of the funds to her own use and attempted to wire the funds to a person posing as an Internal Revenue Agent. DEMERS acted as a middleman for a fraudster who directed financial fraud victims to send DEMERS money, which she would then convert to MoneyGrams, etc., and forward to the fraudster.

In addition to the sentence, DEMERS was sentenced to pay restitution in the amount of $200 and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the Federal Trade Commission at  www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov or at 1-877-FTC-HELP.  The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office of Victims of Crime at www.ovc.gov.  Additional elder justice resources, training, and outreach materials can be found at the Elder Justice Website at www.elderjustice.gov.

If you need assistance or to report elder abuse, please contact your local adult protective services agency through the Eldercare Locator or by call the helpline at 1-800-677-1116 Monday – Friday 9am - 8pm EST. To report elder fraud, please visit the FBI’s IC3 Elder Fraud Complaint Center or contact the dedicated National Elder Fraud Hotline at 833–FRAUD–11 or 833–372–8311 Monday – Friday, 10:00 am – 6:00 pm EST.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, Economic Crimes Section, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –MICHAEL CONNER, age 22, and ROBERT HALL, age 24, both residents of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on February 20, 2024, before United States District Judge Lance M. Africk to violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, CONNER and HALL each admitted to being arrested by the New Orleans Police Department due to their possession of firearms.  Prior to their arrests, CONNER and HALL were each convicted of felony offenses, with CONNER having a prior conviction for drug trafficking and HALL having prior convictions for attempted robbery, robbery, and being a felon in possession of a firearm.    

Judge Africk set sentencing for June 12, 2024.  CONNER and HALL each face a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, 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 New Orleans Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller, who is Senior Litigation Counsel at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that SIMON PAUL ADAMS, age 27, a resident of Thibodaux, La., pled guilty on February 21, 2024 before United States District Judge Lance M. Africk to possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a)(4)(B). 

According to court documents, on multiple dates, including, on or about October 15, 2022, December 14, 2022, and January 19, 2023, Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) agents  investigated the sharing of digital files depicting the sexual exploitation of children via a peer-to-peer file sharing network. Agents downloaded a series of files depicting the sexual exploitation of children, from an IP address connected to a residence in Thibodaux subsequently determined to be ADAMS’s residence. The files included videos between approximately three minutes and twenty-three minutes long depicting juvenile females being sexually victimized. 

Agents executed a search warrant at ADAMS’s residence in July 2023 and seized electronic devices, several of which contained contain files (i.e., images and videos) depicting the sexual victimization of children and obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. An analysis of the devices revealed at least approximately 5 images and 70 videos depicting the sexual victimization of children and over 30 images and 1,500 videos depicting obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children. Some of the depictions included children less than three years old being victimized and depictions that portrayed sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence.

ADAMS faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. He may also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing before Judge Africk has been scheduled for June 12, 2024.

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, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –TEDDY NATHAN, age 25, a resident of New Orleans,  pleaded guilty on February 20, 2024, before United States District Judge Susie Morgan to violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, NATHAN, armed with an AR-15 rifle loaded with over 25 rounds, entered a daycare in Central City where several small children were sleeping. The staff got him out of the building and called the police. NATHAN fled as the police approached but was quickly apprehended. The police found the AR-15 on the front seat of a vehicle located where NATHAN stood before he ran. Records checks revealed that NATHAN’s criminal history includes felony convictions for aggravated assault with a firearm, purse snatching, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, robbery, conspiracy to commit armed robbery, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a stolen firearm.      

Judge Morgan set sentencing for June 4, 2024. If the Court determines that NATHAN is an Armed Career Offender, he will face a mandatory minimum of 15 years up to life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release. If he is not an Armed Career Offender, he will face up to 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. Under either scenario, NATHAN must pay 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, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. It is being prosecuted by Senior Litigation Counsel, David Haller.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TYKI CLAYTON, age 21 of Lutcher, La. was sentenced on February 21, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to 36 months incarceration after he previously pled guilty to possession of a machine gun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Judge Milazzo also ordered that CLAYTON be placed on supervised release for three (3) years following his release from prison. CLAYTON was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to court records, on March 28, 2022, CLAYTON was the passenger in a vehicle that did not come to a full stop at a stop sign. A St. James Parish deputy stopped the vehicle and saw CLAYTON in the front passenger seat reaching between his legs into a backpack.

The deputy learned that CLAYTON had an outstanding arrest warrant and detained him inside a police unit. Law enforcement discovered a Glock firearm equipped with an auto-sear, making it function as a machine gun, as well as a loaded gun magazine during a search of CLAYTON’s vehicle.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun 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 St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on Friday, February 16, 2024, KENNETH RICHMOND, age 63, and KENDRA WALKER, age 40, of New Orleans, were charged in a six-count indictment by for conspiring to commit wire fraud,  and aggravated identity theft. 

In Count One, RICHMOND and WALKER were charged with conspiring to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. According to the indictment, in 2022, RICHMOND and WALKER conspired to use fake or stolen personal identifying information to make fraudulent vehicle purchases from a local car dealership. The vehicle purchases were bank financed, and the loans went into default. 

Counts Two through Five of the indictment allege that on several dates between February and November of 2022, RICHMOND and/or WALKER caused credit applications to be submitted through wire communications, in order to defraud a car dealership and bank, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 2.

Count Six alleges that RICHMOND and WALKER knowingly transferred, without lawful authority, a means of identification belonging to another actual person, to further their fraudulent scheme, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1028A and 2.

If convicted of Counts One through Five, RICHMOND and WALKER face, as to each count, up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. As to Count Six, RICHMOND and WALKER face a prison term of two (2) years consecutive to any other sentence imposed, up to one (1) year of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. 

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorney Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.