Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – XAVION WATTS, age 19, a New Orleans resident, was indicted on January 19, 2023 for possession of a machinegun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 922(o).

WATTS faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000,  up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.  The indictment alleges that the Glock nine-millimeter pistol he possessed had been converted into a fully automatic weapon.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – HIBIS TURCIO-SANCHEZ, age 44, a native of Honduras, was indicted on January 19, 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, TURCIO-SANCHEZ reentered the United States illegally after being previously deported on October 14, 2016. If convicted, TURCIO-SANCHEZ faces an enhanced sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment, up to 3 years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. TURCIO-SANCHEZ faces an enhanced sentence due to his 2016 felony conviction for assaulting a federal official. 

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 and Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JASMINE GRIFFIN and BYRONEISHA BUTLER, were sentenced on January 18, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo for their involvement in a gang case.

GRIFFIN previously pled guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 371, and Misprision of a Felony, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 4.

BYRONEISHA BUTLER also previously pled guilty to Misprision of a Felony.  

U.S. District Judge Milazzo sentenced GRIFFIN to two years’ probation for each charge, to run concurrently, and a $200.00 mandatory special assessment fee.  

Judge Milazzo sentenced BUTLER to two years’ probation, a $500.00 fine, and a mandatory $200.00 special assessment fee.  

According to public 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. GRIFFIN and BUTLER, and eight others, were involved in conspiracies to possess firearms, traffic drugs and commit armed robberies of drug dealers.

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. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on January 18, 2024, LARYAN REED, age 20, of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). REED’s sentencing is set for April 18, 2024.

As a consequence,  REED faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  

According to court records, on February 17, 2023, the Friday before Mardi Gras, officers observed REED walking on Bourbon Street with an object shaped like a firearm in his waistband. When officers attempted to stop REED, he physically resisted but was eventually,  detained, and found in possession of a firearm.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, as well as the New Orleans Police Department. The case    is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit   .

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that MICHELLE ANDRE, age 48, a physician residing in Houma, La. was charged on January 9, 2024 with  distribution of 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 medroxyprogesterone, into interstate commerce.  The medroxyprogesterone lacked adequate directions for use in its labeling.  

If convicted, ANDRE faces  up to one year in prison and up to one year of supervised release.

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 – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CARLOS GUILLEN (“GUILLEN”), age 38, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on January 18, 2024 to distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B) and 841(b)(1)(C). In pleading guilty, the defendant faces up to twenty (20) years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to court documents, on or about August 16, 2023, in New Orleans, GUILLEN sold Fentanyl to undercover special agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown set sentencing in this matter for April 25, 2024.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would like to acknowledge the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives on this investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOHN SPOSATO, age 72, a resident of Kiln, Mississippi, pleaded guilty on January 18, 2024 before United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1344.

According to court documents, SPOSATO began serving a three-year period of supervised release after his release from prison as a result of his previous conviction on about August 9, 2022, in United States v. John Sposato, on about August 9, 2022. While on supervised release, SPOSATO claimed to be President of several companies, including Pegasus Consulting and Development, LLC (“Pegasus Consulting”). These companies performed no work and generated no income. SPOSATO opened a financial account at Keesler Federal Credit Union in the name of Pegasus Consulting and on March 27, 2023, attempted to deposit a $10,000.00 check he received from a co-conspirator, knowing it to be counterfeit. The check was purportedly drawn on the financial account of an all-volunteer, non-profit, tax-exempt organization that supported a Florida public library. SPOSATO’s attempted deposit placed Keesler at risk of both civil liability and financial loss. When asked about the check, SPOSATO falsely told a United States Probation Officer that the check was compensation for consulting work he performed, both directly and through an associate named “Jack Morgan”, for the non-profit entity. In fact, SPOSATO knew he was not entitled to the check and had never performed work for the non-profit.

SPOSATO faces up to five (5) years in prison, up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing before Judge Fallon has been scheduled for .

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Probation Office and 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 that JASON CAREY pled guilty on January 17, 2024, before United States District Judge Lance Africk, to presenting a materially altered postal money order. CAREY faces up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release of up to three (3) years, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, beginning on or about November 4, 2020 and continuing until on or about November 20, 2020, CAREY executed a scheme to fraudulently obtain approximately $20,000 from Hancock Whitney Bank. CAREY did so by depositing altered United States Postal Money Orders into his minor daughter’s bank account at Hancock Whitney Bank and then withdrawing these same funds from the account before the fund transfers cleared.

The case was investigated by United States Postal Inspection Service agents and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit and Paul Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit.                                       

NEW ORLEANS – BRIA PETERS, age 28, a resident of Houston, Texas, was sentenced to 5 five years probation on January 17, 2024 by U.S. District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle after previously pleading guilty to making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

On March 27, 2020, 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) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers and maintain payroll, make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.

According to the court documents, PETERS made false statements to an approved lender on or about May 27, 2021, for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining a PPP loan.  Consequently, PETERS later received a PPP loan totaling approximately $29,166.00.  PETERS stated in her PPP application that in 2020, she owned a clothing business impacted by the pandemic when, in truth, she had no such business.

In addition to 5 years probation, PETERS was ordered to pay $55,141 in restitution  and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee .

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Amtrak Office of Inspector General – Criminal Investigations, in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit was in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DERRICK LEWIS, age 23, of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 16, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey, to 9 months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Steal United States Mail and Possession of Stolen Mail.

According to court records, on January 30, 2022, LEWIS conspired with others to steal mail from both the Lakeview Post Office in New Orleans, La. as well as United States Postal Service (USPS) mailboxes located in Metairie, La. LEWIS acted as the driver and another defendant used a stolen USPS key to steal mail from the two locations. After a police chase, LEWIS and the co-defendant were found in possession of approximately 30 pieces of stolen mail.  

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service - Office of the Inspector General, 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, LOUISIANA – DONALD MYLES, a/k/a “D-Ray,” age 46, a New Orleans resident, pleaded guilty on January 10, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin and a quantity of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, the Federal Bureau Investigation New Orleans Gang Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department investigated MYLES for his involvement in a drug distribution operation in September 2020. The investigation involved numerous controlled purchases of heroin and cocaine from MYLES. The investigation revealed that MYLES conspired with JOHN CRAWFORD, KEVIN JOHNSON, CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON, and others  to distribute heroin and cocaine.

MYLES faces a  mandatory minimum of five years, up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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 Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – GEORGE PETERSON, age 60, a resident of Waggaman, Louisiana, was sentenced on January 9, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 24 months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to possessing an unregistered firearm silencer, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Sections 5841, 5861(d), and 5871.

According to court documents, Special Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) executed a search warrant at PETERSON’s residence, which also served as the storefront location for his business, PDW Gun Solutions LLC, a federal firearms licensee. During the search, ATF agents discovered a firearm silencer inside a safe in PETERSON’s bedroom. ATF examination of the silencer revealed that ammunition had been fired through it. The silencer was not registered to PETERSON in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as required by federal statute.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RICHARD LUDWIG II, age 74, a resident of Independence, La. was sentenced on January 9, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry, after previously pleading guilty to three counts of dealing a firearm without a license, to 36 months of probation, 12 months of home incarceration, a $5000 fine, and a mandatory $300 special assessment fee.

Counts One through Three charged LUDWIG with dealing in firearms without a license, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(a)(1)(A) and 924(a)(1)(D).

According to court  records, in December 2020, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Agents began  investigating LUDWIG for selling firearms without a license. LUDWIG operated Tickfaw Guns, in Independence, La. and maintained a website  advertising himself as a duly licensed Federal Firearms Licensee (F.F.L.). In reality, LUDWIG failed to renew his federal license to sell firearms. ATF agents also received information that LUDWIG sold guns to persons prohibited from possessing such, and that some of these guns had been  recovered from various crime scenes.

During their investigation, ATF agents witnessed LUDWIG selling firearms at a gun show in Mississippi on August 21, 2021. LUDWIG admitted to the agents that he had 400 guns to sell. Subsequently, in October 2021, undercover ATF agents purchased firearms and ammunition from LUDWIG twice.

On December 01, 2021, ATF executed a search warrant for LUDWIG’s gun shop and seized 237 firearms, consisting of handguns, long guns, and shotguns, $21,476, cellular telephones, computers, and assorted financial documents. Agents also seized financial documents from LUDWIG’s bank account. The $21,476 represented LUDWIG’s profit from unlicensed firearms sales.  LUDWIG used the seized computers and financial documents, to maintain his illegal gun selling operation.

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 Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on January 11, 2024, TYRIN WILTZ, age 29, of Orleans Parish, was charged in a five-count superseding indictment for alleged drug and gun violations. These violations occurred on and before September 21, 2022. 

In Count 1, WILTZ is charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B)(vi), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D). If convicted, WILTZ faces up to 40 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and at least 3 years supervised release.

In Count 2, WILTZ is charged with discharging a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(iii). If convicted, WILTZ facs a manadtory minimum sentence of 10 yearsup to life imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00 and up to 5 years of supervised release. 

In Count 3, WILTZ is charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B)(vi), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D). If convicted, WILTZ faces up to 40 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and at least 3 years of supervised release.

In Count 4, WILTZ is charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). If convicted, WILTZ faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to 5 years of supervised release. 

In Count 5, WILTZ is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). If convicted, WILTZ faces up to 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each of the five (5) charged counts, WILTZ also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. 

On May 23, 2022, NOPD responded to a shooting on St. Roch Avenue in New Orleans and found a victim suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. NOPD developed WILTZ as the primary suspect and arrested him pursuant to a warrant on September 21, 2022. Pursuant to his arrest, NOPD recovered both weapons and illegal substances from WILTZ. On October 13, 2022, WILTZ was indicted for firearm and illegal substances violations. After his initial  indictment, NOPD investigators recovered additional weapons and illegal substances in WILTZ’s possession that formed the basis for the superseding indictment.

U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that a superseding indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven guilty 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, 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 – QUINCY JONES, a/k/a “Luck,” a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo on January 11, 2024, to 34 months incarceration, three (3) years of supervised release following release from imprisonment and a mandatory $200 special assessment fee, after JONES had previously pled guilty to conspiring to interfere with commerce through robbery and attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, all in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951.

According to court records, in 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated a group for committing various violent crimes and illegal drug trafficking, primarily in New Orleans East and the Ninth Ward. Thereafter, JONES, along with nine others, were indicted, for conspiring to possess firearms, traffic drugs and commit armed robberies of drug dealers.      

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. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crime Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on January 10, 2024, JOSHUA MORGAN, age 30, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  If convicted, MORGAN faces up to 15 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  Sentencing is set for April 10, 2024.

According to court records, on October 10, 2022, NOPD responded to a 911 call of shots being fired. The caller reported observing a subject in a grey shirt with black shorts flee from a vehicle, run through a parking lot, and put something in a storm drain behind a business located in the 3400 block of Tulane Avenue. Video surveillance from the area showed an Infiniti SUV driving on Tulane Avenue toward downtown New Orleans and stop at a red light. After the Infiniti stops, one vehicle pulled up next to the Infiniti while another pulled up from behind. The occupants of those two vehicles opened fire on the Infiniti. MORGAN, who was in the Infiniti, shot through his windshield, exited the Infiniti and continued firing at the two vehicles. Surveillance video also showed MORGAN running from the Infiniti with a firearm in his hand, placing the firearm in his pants pocket, and later discarding the firearm in a storm drain. MORGAN is a felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation 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 – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced  that BYRON WILLIAMS, age 39, a resident of New Orleans, was charged January 11, 2024 in a three-count indictment stemming from incidents taking place on November 22, 2023. Count 1 charged WILLIAMS with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Count 2 charged WILLIAMS with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). Count 3 charged WILLIAMS with felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

If convicted of Count 1, WILLIAMS faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 2, WILLIAMS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, WILLIAMS faces up to 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each count, WILLIAMS also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

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 – TIMOTHY BLAYLOCK, age 51, of Marrero, La. was sentenced on January 10, 2024 after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. BLAYLOCK was sentenced to 104 months imprisonment, four years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, BLAYLOCK’s vehicle was stopped by law enforcement, and a subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the seizure of 449.7 grams of methamphetamine.

The case was investigated by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and J. Benjamin Myers, both of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CESAR A. LOBO-RAMOS, age 37, a native of Honduras, was indicted on January 11, 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, LOBO-RAMOS reentered the United States after being  previously deported on April 10, 2018. If convicted, LOBO-RAMOS faces up to 2 years of imprisonment, 1 year of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine and $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  He also faces a sentencing enhancement of up to 20 years, because of a 2010 felony sexual battery conviction in Jefferson Parish.

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 agency and the Kenner Police Department in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on January 11, 2024, WILLIAM J. WHITE, age 63, of Phoenix, Arizona was indicted for bank fraud.

According to court documents, WHITE entered a local bank and used a false identification document in an attempt to cash a forged and fraudulent check.  

The crime of bank fraud carries a penalty of up to 30 years imprisonment, followed by up to five years of supervised release, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Diplomatic Security Service, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

                                        

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that both DIMITRI FRAZIER (“FRAZIER”), age 31, of Westwego, Louisiana; ADONTE TURNER (“A. TURNER”), age 25, of New Orleans; and TIFFANY TURNER (“T. TURNER”), age 52, also of New Orleans, pled guilty on January 10, 2024 to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. January 10th’s guilty pleas bring the total number of defendants convicted in “Operation Sideswipe” to 47.

According to court documents, on November 13, 2017, FRAZIER, A. TURNER, and T. TURNER intentionally struck a tractor-trailer in the area of Interstate 10 near Paris Road in New Orleans. FRAZIER, A. TURNER, and T. TURNER made false police reports, filed fraudulent lawsuits, lied during deposition testimony, and sought unnecessary medical treatment in furtherance of their fraud .

These defendants face up to five (5) years of imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and up to a fine of up to $250,000.00.  A $100 mandatory special assessment fee is also applicable. The Honorable Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for April 10, 2024.

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. Attorney Maria Carboni, Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Rivera, all of the Financial Crimes Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JEANNINE DUKES (“DUKES”), age 41, of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 10, 2024 for making a false oath in a bankruptcy matter, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 152(2), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  

According to the bill of information, on November 19, 2021, DUKES knowingly and fraudulently made a false oath or account in or in relation to any case under Title 11 in a bankruptcy case. Specifically, DUKES failed to disclose that she had applied for a COVID-19 PPP Loan on May 18, 2021, and received approximately $20,527.00 in PPP funds on June 8, 2021.

United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced DUKES to one year of probation, fifty hours of community service, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General and the Office of the U.S. Trustee, Region 5, in investigating this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ALFRED CLAY, age 59, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 10, 2024 after previously pleading guilty to both conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride, and possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride, all in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. CLAY was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment, five years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, CLAY and other co-conspirators were responsible for  distributing multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and heroin, within the Eastern District of Louisiana.

During the investigation, law enforcement, led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, seized over forty (40) kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride, six (6) kilograms of fentanyl, four and a half (4.5) kilograms of heroin, and nearly $700,000.00 in U.S. Currency and other seized property.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that FERMIN DANIEL PUENTE-MONTOYA, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced on January 9, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B Vitter to 57 months incarceration, after previously pleading guilty to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act and illegal reentry of a removed alien. Judge Vitter also ordered deportation for PUENTE-MONTOYA following imprisonment, and a 1-year term of supervised probation should he ever illegally reenter the country.

According to the indictment, in March of 2023, PUENTE-MONTOYA conspired with others to pick up and transport a bag he knew contained over 9 kilograms of pure methamphetamine from Dallas, Texas to Kenner, Louisiana. PUENTE-MONTOYA participated in this narcotics conspiracy after previously being deported from the United States.

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 Agency and the Kenner Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DILLON TOUPS, age 34, a resident of Larose, Louisiana, was sentenced on January 9, 2024 by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 140 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on December 18, 2021, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s deputies conducted a traffic stop of TOUPS on Highway 1 in Raceland, Louisiana. After smelling marijuana in the vehicle, deputies searched the vehicle and found a bag containing 1,317 grams of methamphetamine on the back seat. After being advised of his rights, TOUPS told the deputies he stored additional drugs at his residence. Deputies searched his residence in Larose, Louisiana and located 411 grams of methamphetamine and .91 grams of fentanyl. 

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –MELVIN DANIEL VARGAS-REYES, 21, was sentenced on January 10, 2024 for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, VARGAS-REYES admitted to possessing a Hi-Point, nine-millimeter pistol as an illegal alien. VARGAS-REYES was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance to (24) twenty-four months in federal prison. He was also ordered to pay 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.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MELISSA KING (“KING”), age 54, of Hammond, Louisiana was sentenced on January 9, 2024 by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry after previously pleading guilty to Theft of Government Funds, a  violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641. Judge Guidry sentenced KING to three (3) years of probation, payment of restitution in the amount of $44,696.00 to the Social Security Administration as well as payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court records, beginning in or around December 2016, and continuing until in or around March 2020, KING collected approximately $44,696.00 in Social Security Administration funds to which she was not entitled.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TODD F. MORRELL, age 56, a resident of New Orleans, was charged today with twelve (12) counts of wire fraud, in  violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, for perpetrating a multi-year scheme to defraud the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) and the New Orleans Fair Grounds, an entity for which he was paid to provide off-duty police details.

According to the charging document, MORRELL was a NOPD Sergeant with NOPD’s Special Operations Division and served both on a Tactical Platoon and the Bomb Disposal Unit. He supplemented his NOPD income with security-oriented secondary employment (i.e., “police details”) while off-duty, including the New Orleans Fair Grounds Neighborhood Patrol (“Fair Grounds Patrol”). The Fair Grounds Patrol was created by city ordinance to supplement and enhance police service around the New Orleans Fair Grounds Racecourse, in New Orleans. The Fair Grounds Patrol consisted of two patrol cars operating 24 hours per day, 7 days a week, with one off-duty NOPD officer per car. MORRELL signed annual certifications attesting to his understanding of NOPD policies, including, secondary employment, and acknowledging that he would “actively monitor my hours.”

Notwithstanding these annual certifications, on numerous occasions between January 2017 and November 30, 2021, MORRELL submitted and certified timecards to NOPD and time sheets to the Fair Grounds Patrol falsely claiming to have been on duty (for NOPD) and on detail (for the Fair Grounds Patrol) when, in actuality, MORRELL was not present for duty. Often, MORRELL was engaged in recreational race car driving in Avondale, Louisiana, and Austin, Texas, while claiming to be on duty and on detail. Additionally, MORRELL frequently “double billed” NOPD and the Fair Grounds Patrol by submitting time sheets to both entities reflecting that he was working for both entities simultaneously. 

Further, MORRELL regularly certified and submitted timecards to NOPD and time sheets to other entities, reflecting that he provided police details not only for a significant number of consecutive days but also, in effect, for the vast majority of days each year. For example, MORRELL certified and submitted timecards and time sheets reflecting that he worked every day between March 26, 2017, and July 23, 2017, except one. MORRELL claimed to have worked between thirteen (13) and twenty and one-half (20.5) hours per day for more than thirty (30) of those days. Similarly, MORRELL certified and submitted timecards and time sheets in  2020, reflecting that he worked approximately 356 days out of the 365-day calendar year.    MORRELL also reported—and was paid for—working a massive number of hours annually, including more than  4,600 hours in 2020 alone.

In Fall 2021, including on or about November 16, 2021, local New Orleans media outlets published and broadcast reports concerning MORRELL’s employment with NOPD and the  Fair Grounds Patrol. On November 17, 2021, MORRELL submitted payroll adjustment forms for several dates between December 2017 and April 2021 seeking to correct “clerical errors” that misstated the hours he had been on duty for NOPD, to NOPD. On about November 30, 2021, MORRELL resigned from NOPD. 

“While an indictment is merely a charge, not a full presentation of evidence, today’s indictment emphasizes this office’s dedication to ensuring the integrity and honesty of public officials and holding responsible those who betray that sacred public duty,” announced U.S. Attorney Evans.  “Official misconduct erodes trust in public institutions and deprives local governments of precious resources. When the public official is a member of law enforcement, who has sworn to protect and serve its citizens and maintain the highest standards of the community, such behavior is even more egregious, especially in communities whose police departments are already enduring critical staffing shortages.”

For each count, MORRELL faces up to twenty (20) years in prison, up to three years 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 the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –TYLAR REDDITT, age 22, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, pled guilty on January 9, 2024, to a two-count indictment charging him with violations of the Federal Gun Control and the Federal Controlled Substances Acts, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to  court records, REDDITT conspired to distribute heroin and to use and possess firearms in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Both counts carry a sentence of up to  twenty (20) years in prison, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Additionally, the drug violation carries a possible fine of up to $1,000,000 and the gun violation carries a possible fine of up to $250,000.00. 

According to public records, agents were able to obtain numerous social media photographs of REDDITT posing with firearms, drugs and cash. REDDITT also participated in a non-fatal retaliatory shooting on July 27, 2022, shortly after Javorious Scott, a local rapper, was murdered in Bogalusa. 

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

This case was investigated by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Bogalusa Police Department.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on, January 4, 2024, SCOTT P. RICHARD, age 47, of Raceland, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Eldon Fallon to  access device fraud in relation to his theft from his former employer, a Houma-based company identified in court records as “Company A”.  

According to those records, RICHARD was a systems engineer for Company A, entrusted with the specification, purchase, installation, and support of equipment and systems used by the company’s technology infrastructure. RICHARD admitted to fraudulently using the corporate credit card issued to him by Company A for his own personal benefit. RICHARD embezzled  money from his employer by creating false invoices for a shell company he controlled, and using his corporate card to make fraudulent purchases from the shell company. RICHARD also made unauthorized purchases of equipment, for his own personal use, with his corporate card. From January 1, 2012 through September 27, 2021, RICHARD fraudulently diverted $526,569.42 from Company A to himself.

RICHARD faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine or the greater of twice the gross gain or twice the gross loss, up to three years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Judge Fallon set RICHARD’s sentencing for April 11, 2024.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RYAN NEGROTTO, a/k/a “WHITE BOY,” age 43, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 4, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to 255 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to eight counts of the  superseding indictment pending against him. Judge Fallon also ordered that NEGROTTO be placed on supervised release for five (5) years following release from imprisonment and pay a mandatory $100 assessment special assessment fee as to each count.

Count 1 charged NEGROTTO with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C § 841(a)(1) and 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. Count 2 charged NEGROTTO with distribution and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(B), and 18 U.S.C. § 2. Count 3 charged NEGROTTO with distribution and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2. Count 4 charged NEGROTTO with distribution of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2. Counts 5 and 7 charged NEGROTTO with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C § 924(c)(1)(A)(i). Count 6 charged NEGROTTO with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). Count 8 charged NEGROTTO with using or maintaining a drug premises, in violation of 21 U.S.C § 856(a)(1) and 18 U.S.C § 2.

According to public records, prior to March 2, 2021, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) was informed that a New Orleans motorcycle shop harbored drug dealers. ATF used a confidential informant (“CI”) who both visited the shop numerous times, saw drug sales occurring and heard discussions about other drug sales. The CI learned that NEGROTTO was the co-renter of the shop.

On separate occasions in March 2021, NEGROTTO sold methamphetamine to a CI, one sale of which totaled over 300 grams, and also provided prices for future purchases. In May 2021, NEGROTTO sold over 400 grams of methamphetamine to a CI.

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 Louisiana State Police.  Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOSE CASTRON MURCIA, age 22, of Honduras, was sentenced today by the Honorable Greg G. Guidry, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, for unauthorized use of a social security number.

According to documents filed in federal court, the defendant unlawfully used a social security account number belonging to another individual to complete documents necessary to maintain employment with a local business. The defendant was sentenced to one year of probation and ordered to pay a special assessment of one hundred dollars.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – DILLON ARCENEAUX, age 33, a resident of Marrero, Louisiana, and ZEB SARTIN, age 37, a resident of Duson, Louisiana, were sentenced on January 3, 2024 by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo, after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. ARCENEAUX received 3 years of probation, with the first 12 months to be served in home confinement, a $10,000 fine, and he was ordered to pay $1,604,581 in restitution to the victim. SARTIN received 3 years of probation, with the first 12 months to be served in home confinement, and he was ordered to pay $2,100,690 in restitution to the victim from U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo. ARCENEAUX and SARTIN were also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment of fee $100 per count.

As according to court documents, ARCENEAUX and SARTIN conspired with RYAN MULLEN, DUANE DUFRENE, GRANT MENARD, and LANCE VALLO to use several  shell Louisiana corporations that were devoid of assets, to defraud a Georgia based merchant cash company. MULLEN and DUFRENE helped establish ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN as the owners of the existing corporations. MULLEN and DUFRENE then created fake vendor accounts for the corporations, and MULLEN, along with another person, created falsified bank records for the corporations. MULLEN then used an alias and represented himself to be a broker for the shell corporations he helped create.

Through the aid of another broker, MULLEN supplied the victim merchant cash advance company with the fake vendor accounts and false bank records in order to obtain funding. The victim cash advance company approved the advances and electronically wired ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN millions of dollars in advances. ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN laundered a some of the funds by paying MULLEN and DUFRENE percentages of the funds. ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN then closed their non-existent corporations before fully repaying the victim merchant cash advance company, resulting in overall losses of approximately $6.4 million. ARCENEAUX was responsible for approximately $1.6 million in losses to the victim, and SARTIN was responsible for $2.1 million in losses.

U.S. Attorney Evans commended the special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS-Criminal Investigation for their handling of the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit and Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TERRANCE RICHARDS, age 38, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 4, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 100 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). Judge Barbier also ordered that RICHARDS be placed on supervised release for three (3) years following release from imprisonment and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on August 22, 2020, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers responded to a report of shots fired in a New Orleans neighborhood. NOPD, in partnership with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, determined through investigation that RICHARDS was one of the shooters. RICHARDS’s prior felony convictions for attempted distribution of cocaine (2010), possession of cocaine (2010), felon in possession of a firearm (2011) and distribution of cocaine (2012), prohibited his possession of a firearm. 

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RYAN NEGROTTO, a/k/a “WHITE BOY,” age 43, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 4, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to 255 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to eight counts of the  superseding indictment pending against him. Judge Fallon also ordered that NEGROTTO be placed on supervised release for five (5) years following release from imprisonment and pay a mandatory $100 assessment special assessment fee as to each count.

Count 1 charged NEGROTTO with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C § 841(a)(1) and 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. Count 2 charged NEGROTTO with distribution and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§841(a)(1),  and 841(b)(1)(B), and 18 U.S.C. § 2. Count 3 charged NEGROTTO with distribution and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2. Count 4 charged NEGROTTO with distribution of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2. Counts 5 and 7 charged NEGROTTO with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C § 924(c)(1)(A)(i). Count 6 charged NEGROTTO with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). Count 8 charged NEGROTTO with using or maintaining a drug premises, in violation of 21 U.S.C § 856(a)(1) and 18 U.S.C § 2.

According to public records, prior to March 2, 2021, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) was informed that a New Orleans motorcycle shop harbored drug dealers. ATF used a confidential informant (“CI”) who both visited the shop numerous times, saw drug sales occurring and heard discussions about other drug sales. The CI learned that NEGROTTO was the co-renter of the shop.

On separate occasions in March 2021, NEGROTTO sold methamphetamine to a CI, one sale of which totaled over 300 grams, and also provided prices for future purchases. In May 2021, NEGROTTO sold over 400 grams of methamphetamine to a CI.

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 Louisiana State Police.  Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that MARVIN LEGENDRE, age 40, of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 4, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 300 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $500 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to a  five-count indictment.

The indictment charged LEGENDRE, in Counts 1 and 3, with Hobbs Acts Robberies, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951(a). Counts 2 and 4 charged LEGENDRE with using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1). Count 5 charged LEGENDRE with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force, in conjunction with New Orleans Police Department and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, investigated several Hobbs Act Robberies linked to LEGENDRE. On March 7, 2021, LEGENDRE committed an armed robbery at a Cricket Wireless store in Chalmette, LA and on March 10, 2021, LEGENDRE committed an armed robbery at a Boost Mobile store in New Orleans.  Using both physical and video surveillance to track a vehicle that LEGENDRE, used for the robberies, agents located LEGENDRE’s residence. After executing a search warrant for the residence, LEGENDRE was arrested. The search of the apartment yielded the clothes he wore during the robberies and other evidence, including  firearms.

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.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Inga Petrovich and Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TYREN TYRONE SHENALL (“SHENALL”), age 19, was sentenced on January 5, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to serve five years’ probation, 100 hours of community service and pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee for theft or receipt of stolen mail matter, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708.

According to court documents, on November 15, 2022, SHENALL, along with his co-conspirators Eric Williams and Kelan Gennings, stole U.S. Mail from post office mailboxes located at the Covington Post Office by using a postal arrow key to obtain access. SHENALL and his co-conspirators then used the checks and other financial documents stolen from the mailbox to commit check fraud.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – NAIROBI DAVIS, age 24, JACOB ESTEM, age 21,   KENNELIUS BROWN, age 35, and DORNELIUS BROWN, age 33, all of New Orleans, and  DEJON RICHARDSON, age 27, TYREESE QUINCY, age 24, and DARIUS QUINCY, age 26, all of Terrytown, Louisiana, were indicted on November 11, 2023, in a 12-count superseding indictment, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans. All were charged with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Cocaine, and Marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 846.

 

According to the superseding indictment, from late 2022 until May of 2023, DAVIS, ESTEM, KENNELIUS BROWN, DORNELIUS BROWN, RICHARDSON, TYREESE QUINCY, and DARIUS QUINCY distributed fentanyl throughout the New Orleans area and possessed marijuana, cocaine, and fentanyl. Throughout this investigation, loaded firearms were found nearby the controlled substances, indicative of the firearms’ use in furtherance of the drug trafficking crimes.     

DAVIS was also charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A), Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and Using or Maintaining Drug Premises, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 856(a)(1).

ESTEM was also charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), and Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g).

KENNELIUS BROWN was also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A), Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, in violation 18 U.S.C. § 922(g).

RICHARDSON was also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Marijuana Fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A) and Using or Maintaining Drug Premises, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 856(a)(1).

TYREESE QUINCY was also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Marijuana Fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1), and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A).

DARIUS QUINCY was also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Marijuana Fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1).

Those charged with Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, Cocaine, and Marijuana, ( list names ) face a minimum of five years imprisonment up to forty years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release.

Those charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Felon, DAVIS, ESTEM, and KENNELIUS BROWN, face up to fifteen years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.

Those charged with Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime, DAVIS, KENNELIUS BROWN, RICHARDSON, and TYREESE QUINCY, face a minimum of five years imprisonment up to fifteen years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.

Those charged with Distribution of Fentanyl, DAVIS and ESTEM,  face up to twenty years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release.

 Those charged with Using or Maintaining Drug Premises, DAVIS and RICHARDSON, face up to twenty years imprisonment, up to a $500,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.

RICHARDSON, TYREESE QUINCY, and DARIUS QUINCY, who were charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute face up to twenty years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years supervised release.

KENNELIUS BROWN, who was also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute, faces a minimum of five years imprisonment up to forty years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release.

As to each count with which a defendant is charged, that defendant faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

United States Attorney Evans reiterated that the superseding 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.  This case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – VINCERT PETERS, age 33, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced on January 3, 2024 to a total of 229 months in prison for federal firearm and drug violations. 

On September 13, 2023, VINCERT PETERS pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance to Counts 1, 3, 5, 8, and 9 of an indictment pending against him. Count 1charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, for his participation in a May 16, 2020 mass shooting in Bogalusa. He also pled guilty to drug distribution charges and another firearm charge stemming from an investigation by the Bogalusa Police Department and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office. Specifically, in Counts 3, 5, and 8, he was charged with distribution of heroin and fentanyl and  possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). In Count 9, he was charged with 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 May 16, 2020, an “Unauthorized Assembly” during Phase I of the COVID-19 Pandemic Re-Opening occurred. This assembly consisted of several hundred people, attending a “Celebration of Life,” event to honor a recent murder victim. During the celebration, a shootout took place between two groups. In total, thirteen (13) people were shot and four (4) sustained serious injuries. Ten separate firearms were discharged during this shootout. VINCENT PETERS admitted possessing and firing a gun during this incident.

During a follow-up investigation, agents also learned that PETERS was selling illegal drugs and were able to make several controlled drug purchases from him. A subsequent search of PETERS’s residence uncovered additional drugs and a firearm.

As a result of his crimes, PETERS was sentenced to serve 120 months as to Count 1 (Felon in Possession of a Firearm); 169 months as to Counts 3, 5, and 8 (Distribution of Drugs); and 60 consecutive months as to Count 9 (possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime). He was also placed on supervised release for three years and ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $500.00.

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 federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Bogalusa Police Department, and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the indictment of COY DAVID MILLER (“MILLER”), age 48, of Youngsville, La. on for the Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B) and (b)(2). The Government unsealed MILLER’s indictment on January 3, 2024. If convicted, MILLER faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or up to a fine of $250,000.00, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person of the offense under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571. In addition, MILLER faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life, after his release from prison. He also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, beginning at an unknown time and until October 17, 2023, MILLER was found in possession of images and videos of pre-pubescent child pornography.  On Wednesday, January 3, 2024, MILLER was arrested at his home in Youngsville by Special Agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARREN FLOWERS, age 25, a resident of Metairie,  pleaded guilty on January 3, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Jane T. Milazzo, to federal drug and weapons violations.

Specifically, FLOWERS pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846; possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, 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).

According to court documents, on January 6, 2022, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (JPSO) conducted surveillance in the 500 block of N. Elm Street in Metairie.  FLOWERS was observed selling drugs, both individually and with his co-conspirators, to customers who arrived in the area. When JPSO detectives made contact with FLOWERS, he fled and discarded a loaded Ruger nine-millimeter semi-automatic handgun during the chase. When FLOWERS was apprehended, he had six rocks of cocaine base and $855 in cash in his pockets.

As to his convictions for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and distribution of controlled substances, FLOWERS faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a minimum of three years of supervised release on each count. As to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, FLOWERS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years 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 – DILLON ARCENEAUX, age 33, a resident of Marrero, Louisiana, and ZEB SARTIN, age 37, a resident of Duson, Louisiana, were sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo, after previously pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. ARCENEAUX received 3 years of probation, with the first 12 months to be served in home confinement, a $10,000 fine, and he was ordered to pay $1,604,581 in restitution to the victim. SARTIN received 3 years of probation, with the first 12 months to be served in home confinement, and he was ordered to pay $2,100,690 in restitution to the victim from U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo. ARCENEAUX and SARTIN were also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment of fee $100 per count.

As according to court documents, ARCENEAUX and SARTIN conspired with RYAN MULLEN, DUANE DUFRENE, GRANT MENARD, and LANCE VALLO to use several  shell Louisiana corporations that were devoid of assets, to defraud a Georgia based merchant cash company. MULLEN and DUFRENE helped establish ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN as the owners of the existing corporations. MULLEN and DUFRENE then created fake vendor accounts for the corporations, and MULLEN, along with another person, created falsified bank records for the corporations. MULLEN then used an alias and represented himself to be a broker for the shell corporations he helped create.

Through the aid of another broker, MULLEN supplied the victim merchant cash advance company with the fake vendor accounts and false bank records in order to obtain funding. The victim cash advance company approved the advances and electronically wired ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN millions of dollars in advances. ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN laundered a some of the funds by paying MULLEN and DUFRENE percentages of the funds. ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN then closed their non-existent corporations before fully repaying the victim merchant cash advance company, resulting in overall losses of approximately $6.4 million. ARCENEAUX was responsible for approximately $1.6 million in losses to the victim, and SARTIN was responsible for $2.1 million in losses.

U.S. Attorney Evans commended the special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and IRS-Criminal Investigation for their handling of the matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit and Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARIAL MAYE, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on January 2, 2024 before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to four counts of possessing goods stolen from an interstate shipment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659.

According to court documents, MAYE participated in vehicle thefts from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility on two separate occasions in March of 2023. During those thefts, MAYE and others stole a 2023 Ford Explorer King Ranch, a 2023 Ford F-150 Raptor Crew Cab 4x4, a 2023 Ford F-150, and a 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks from the Facility.  The cars were moving as part of interstate shipments of freight and destined for Ford dealerships in Louisiana, Alabama, and Mississippi when MAYE and her accomplices stole them. During the following week, MAYE was captured on surveillance video driving or riding as a passenger in all four vehicles.

As to each count of possessing the stolen cars, MAYE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release and 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 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 – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on December 4, 2023 LARRY ROWEL, a/k/a “Lah, a/k/a “Lah Hood,” pled guilty to murder, as well as to various violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, the Federal Gun Control Act, and Hobbs Act robbery. Specifically, ROWEL pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to Counts 1, 2, 3 and 4 of the superseding bill of information pending against him.

Count 1 charged ROWEL with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute, a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 84l(a)(l), (b)(l )(C), (b)(1)(D), and 846. For this charge, ROWEL faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee. Count 2  charged ROWEL with conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o). For this charge, ROWEL faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee .

Count 3  charged ROWEL with causing death through the use of a firearm, stemming from his role in a December 2019 murder, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(j)(1). For this charge, ROWEL faces up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to five years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.   

Count 4 charged ROWEL with conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act Robberies, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951. For this charge, ROWEL faces up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee. 

According to court documents, in 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated a group for committing various violent crimes and illegal drug trafficking, primarily in New Orleans East and the Ninth Ward section of New Orleans. Thereafter, ROWEL, and nine others, were indicted, for conspiring to possess firearms, traffic drugs and commit armed robberies of drug dealers. ROWEL’S plea documents reveal he was a drug dealer who  possessed firearms,  robbed other  drug dealers, and participated in a December 2019, murder.

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 – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on December 21, 2023, RAKHEEM KENNER, age 20, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted by a federal grand jury in a two-count indictment for drug and weapons violations.

In Count 1, KENNER is charged with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). If convicted, KENNER faces a maximum sentence of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00.

In Count 2, KENNER is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). If convicted, KENNER faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, with the minimum being at least 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to 5 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00. This sentence must be imposed consecutively to any other sentence. 

According to a federal complaint previously filed against KENNER, on November 27, 2023, investigators obtained a signed search warrant for a vehicle involved in a shooting incident. Investigators collected various narcotics and firearms inside the vehicle. It was determined that KENNER was the driver of the vehicle.

U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven guilty 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. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit of the U.S. Attorney's Office.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARNELL MELTON, age 27, and SAUL REED, age 32, both residents of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on December 19, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to charges in a 15-count second superseding indictment.

MELTON and REED both pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). REED additionally pleaded guilty to 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).

According to court documents, MELTON has prior Louisiana felony convictions for simple robbery, simple burglary, and attempted possession of a firearm by a felon. In March of 2023, MELTON lived in a New Orleans East house which the FBI identified as the residence of members of a gang known as the “10x”, a reference to the St. Thomas Housing Development in the 10th Ward.

On March 28, 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) executed a search warrant at the residence. When law enforcement announced their presence to execute the search, the occupants refused to exit the house and repeatedly ignored subsequent commands to come outside. While the officers and agents were outside, multiple gunshots were fired nearby. Moments after the gunshots, 911 dispatch received a call falsely claiming that a five-year old child was shot the next block over. The call came from inside the residence. More than an hour after law enforcement arrived, MELTON, REED, and two juveniles exited the house. FBI found two AR-15 pistols and three handguns inside the house. One of the handguns belonged to MELTON. FBI also recovered a backpack belonging to REED. Inside REED’s backpack there was tapentadol, marijuana, a digital scale, latex gloves, and a black ski mask.

REED was pulled over two months later by Louisiana State Police. He had another backpack in his car containing marijuana and a loaded Sig Sauer handgun. REED is prohibited from possessing a gun because of prior Louisiana felony convictions for simple burglary and being a felon in possession of a firearm.

For their felon in possession of firearm convictions, MELTON and REED each face a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. For his conviction for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, REED faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and a minimum of three years of supervised release. Each count also carries 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 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 – RONNIE WILLIAMS, age 22, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, pleaded guilty as charged on December 20, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Jane T. Milazzo to five counts of federal drug and weapons violations.

WILLIAMS pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846; conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o); possession with intent to distribute cocaine base and marijuana, 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)(2).

According to court documents, on January 6, 2022, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted surveillance in the 500 block of N. Elm Street in Metairie, Louisiana. WILLIAMS arrived in the area and received a backpack from his co-defendant which contained marijuana, cocaine base, and fentanyl. Over the next hour, WILLIAMS made several drug sales to customers arriving in vehicles, including transactions with other co-defendants. When law enforcement arrived, WILLIAMS fled and threw a handgun loaded with an extended magazine containing 24 rounds of ammunition. WILLIAMS is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of a prior Louisiana felony conviction for distribution of heroin.

With respect to his convictions for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and distribution of controlled substances, WILLIAMS 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 conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, WILLIAMS faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. With respect to his conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, WILLIAMS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. With respect to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, WILLIAMS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years 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 today that on December 20, 2023, KEILEN HAWKINS, age 26, was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of 71 months for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

In a one count indictment, HAWKINS was charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). He pled guilty on September 12, 2023. In addition to the term of imprisonment, HAWKINS was also sentenced to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to court documents, on February 12, 2023, members of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force were investigating complaints made in the NOPD 5th District about ongoing illegal narcotics distribution in the area.  As officers conducted surveillance, they observed what they believed in their training and experience to be a hand-to-hand narcotics transaction. While officers continued their investigation, HAWKINS arrived on the scene and officers detained him for safety reasons as they conducted their investigation. HAWKINS advised them that he was in possession of a firearm. Officers recovered a Glock Model 19, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, from HAWKINS’s waistband. Officers learned that HAWKINS had prior felony convictions punishable by a term of imprisonment in excess of one year, which made his firearm possession illegal under federal law. Namely, HAWKINS had been convicted most recently in 2022, for being a felon in possession of a firearm and illegal possession of a stolen firearm.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program, 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 violenct 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 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 –  U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that GERNELL HANKTON, age 34, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on December 20, 2023 to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), and one count of making a false and fictitious statement during the purchase of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(a)(6), 924(a)(2), and 2.

According to court documents, HANKTON is a convicted felon, and is prohibited from possessing and purchasing firearms.  In 2009, HANKTON was convicted of possession of cocaine.  In 2010, HANKTON was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm.

On July 20, 2019, HANKTON was involved in a hit-and-run at the McDonald’s on Claiborne Avenue in New Orleans, LA.  During the hit-and-run, HANKTON’s vehicle struck another vehicle as both vehicles were in the drive-thru. When the passenger of the vehicle struck by HANKTON’s vehicle exited her vehicle, HANKTON attempted to drive off, striking the female passenger and a security guard who was attempting to respond to the accident.  The driver of the vehicle that was struck by HANKTON’s vehicle followed behind HANKTON’s vehicle.  HANKTON eventually exited his vehicle, brandished a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber pistol, and fired multiple rounds of ammunition into the driver’s vehicle. The driver was not injured.  HANKTON fled the scene.  Days later, officers with the New Orleans Police Department located HANKTON and located the firearm used in the shooting inside of HANKTON’s vehicle.

Within days of being released on bond, HANKTON went to a local firearm store and attempted to take possession of a firearm that he claimed was purchased by his girlfriend.  HANKTON’s girlfriend completed an ATF 4473 firearm, attesting that she purchased the firearm for herself.  HANKTON’s girlfriend later recanted her statement, admitting that the firearm was purchased for HANKTON. HANKTON made a false statement on the ATF 4473 form for the purpose of deceiving the firearms dealer into selling him a firearm.

On December 9, 2020, New Orleans Police Department officers conducted surveillance near the intersection of S. Liberty and St. Andrew Streets when they observed HANKTON standing by his truck.  HANKTON opened the driver’s side door of his vehicle. Officers observed HANKTON lift up a Radical Firearms, LLC Model AR-15, .223 caliber rifle from behind the driver’s seat of his truck. The officers conducted a stop of HANKTON and located the rifle on the rear driver’s seat.

HANKTON faces a sentence up to 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00,  up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 for each count.  The Honorable Sarah S. Vance, United States District Court Judge, will sentence HANKTON on March 20, 2024.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

 

           

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ANTHONY THOMAS, age 49, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on December 21, 2023, in a one-count indictment.

According to the court documents, on or about December 12, 2023, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, the defendant, ANTHONY THOMAS, knowing he had been previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, knowingly possessed a Smith & Wesson Model SW40V, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

If convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, THOMAS faces a maximum of fifteen (15) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, not more than (3) years of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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 Protective Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy.