Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced today a bill of information charging RACHEL CRAWFORD, a/k/a “Rachel Davenport,” a/k/a “Rachel Monjure,” a/k/a “Rachel Haygood,” age 47, of Ponchatoula, with Theft from an Organization Receiving Federal Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A). CRAWFORD was charged on July 8, 2026.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

According to the bill of information, CRAWFORD was the Chief Financial Officer of an organization that received federal funds. Beginning on or about May 14, 2021, and continuing until on or about May 8, 2025, CRAWFORD withdrew cash from the organization’s checking account for personal use and made unauthorized purchases using the organization’s credit card. In each of the one-year periods beginning May 14, 2021, May 14, 2022, May 14, 2023, May 14, 2024, and May 14, 2025, CRAWFORD embezzled at least $5,000.

If convicted, CRAWFORD faces up to ten (10) years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release for up to three (3) years, and a fine of up to $250,000. A mandatory $100 special assessment fee is also applicable.

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

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation on this investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ALFRED SEYMOUR (“SEYMOUR”), age 19, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, and DAMION JONES (“JONES”), age 20, a resident of Walker, Louisiana, were indicted on June 11, 2026 for carjacking, in violation of 18 U.S.C § 2119(1), and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to the indictment and information presented at a court hearing in the case, on January 22, 2026, JONES was driving a vehicle in which SEYMOUR was a passenger. JONES and SEYMOUR followed another vehicle on to I-10 and then intentionally struck the back of that target vehicle. When the driver of the target vehicle pulled over to inspect the damage, SEYMOUR and JONES pointed guns at the driver, forced two passengers out of the target vehicle at gunpoint, and then stole the target vehicle.

As to the carjacking offense, the defendants face up to 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. As to the charges of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison and up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to any other sentence, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Each count also carries a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely an allegation and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

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

Updated 7/0/2026

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRANDON DUNN (“DUNN”), age 20, was sentenced on July 8, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry to 11.5 years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, along with a $300 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846, and possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2) announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.  

According to court documents, since at least 2023, DUNN sold marijuana and tapentadol in the New Orleans area. On May 9, 2024, New Orleans Police Department Officers were surveilling DUNN’s residence. DUNN arrived in a stolen Infinity Q60 and exited the driver’s seat of the vehicle. When DUNN saw the officers, he fled on foot and discarded a Glock Model 19, nine-millimeter handgun equipped with a machinegun conversion device and an extended magazine loaded with 25 rounds of ammunition. DUNN was apprehended after a short chase. There was a distributable quantity of marijuana in DUNN’s stolen car and DUNN had over $1,000 cash in his pockets. Inside DUNN’s bedroom, officers recovered a money counter, over $15,000 in cash, a Romarm/Cugir Model Micro Draco, 7.62x39millimeter semi-automatic pistol, credit cards in other people’s names, and a washed check.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ANDRE BELL (“BELL”), age 38, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on July 8, 2026 by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to 78 months’ imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and $400.00 in mandatory special assessment fees, after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, two counts of distribution of heroin and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.  

According to court documents, on April 14, 2025, Special Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms identified a co-conspirator as a trafficker of narcotics and firearms and made three controlled purchases from him. On each occasion, BELL supplied the narcotics and firearms that the co-conspirator sold to the buyers.

On August 3, 2023, the co-conspirator arranged a sale of heroin to an individual he believed was a legitimate buyer and indicated BELL would deliver the substance. A meeting place was set, and the co-conspirator met with individuals he thought were legitimate buyers, in their vehicle. Shortly thereafter, BELL arrived and provided 14.07 grams of heroin and fentanyl to the co-conspirator who distributed the drugs to the buyers. 

On August 8, 2023, an individual the defendant believed to be a legitimate buyer negotiated the purchase of a half-ounce of cocaine and one ounce of fentanyl from the co-conspirator. At the meeting place, the co-conspirator provided the buyer with 12.95 grams of cocaine and informed the buyer that BELL was delivering the fentanyl. BELL then arrived and provided a half-ounce of fentanyl to the co-conspirator who then distributed the fentanyl to the buyer.

On August 11, 2023, the co-conspirator arranged a sale of a firearm to an individual he believed to be a legitimate buyer. At the meeting place, the co-conspirator delivered to the buyer a “ghost gun, a firearm that is not serialized making it difficult to trace. The ghost gun was provided to the co-conspirator by BELL.

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

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On July 8, 2026, ASHISH KAPOOR, a/k/a “Romy Kapoor,” (“KAPOOR”) age 28, a national of India, was sentenced for Transportation of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(1), (a)(4)(B), (b)(1), and (b)(2), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to court documents, KAPOOR traveled from Bombay, India to New Orleans, Louisiana on or about February 21, 2024, with a cellular phone containing digital videos and computer images containing visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. In addition, on April 11, 2024, KAPOOR downloaded a video depicting the sexual abuse of a child from an Internet Protocol address at his residence in New Orleans. On December 20, 2024, Special Agents with the United States Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, and officers with the New Orleans Police Department arrested KAPOOR. In a recorded statement, KAPOOR confessed that he had seen and received child pornography using Whatsapp on his cellular phone. 

KAPOOR also admitted to possessing more than 600 images depicting the sexual abuse of minors and further admitted that these items contained sadistic or masochistic conduct, as well as depicting the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers.

United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced KAPOOR to one-hundred and twenty-one (121) months in prison, five (5) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $200.00. Judge Guidry also ordered KAPOOR to pay restitution in the amount of $3,000 to a victim. KAPOOR will also be required to register pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act upon release from prison.

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

The case was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Customs and Border Protection, and the New Orleans Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney and Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force Leader Maria M. Carboni of the Public Integrity Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – On July 2, 2026, DANZELL WASHINGTON (“WASHINGTON”), age 34, of St. Charles Parish, was indicted on two counts charging him with distribution of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) and (b)(1)(C), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to court documents, on August 14, 2025, WASHINGTON distributed a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and on February 3, 2026, WASHINGTON distributed approximately 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in St. Charles Parish.

If convicted of Count One, WASHINGTON faces a minimum term of 20 years, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. If convicted of Count Two, WASHINGTON faces a mandatory minimum of 5 years up to 40 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $5,000,000, at least four (4) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crime Unit is prosecuting the case.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ERSEL HUNT (“HUNT”), age 34, pleaded guilty on July 2, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to a four-count indictment charging him with  possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to court documents, the aforementioned narcotics and firearms charges relate to two separate incidents, as follows. On May 6, 2025, Louisiana State Police (LSP) troopers attempted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by HUNT. HUNT refused to stop and a pursuit ensued. After crashing the vehicle, HUNT was arrested and found in possession of a pistol, marijuana, methamphetamine, a digital scale, clear plastic bags, gloves, and a ski mask. After further investigation, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at HUNT’s residence located on Allen Street in New Orleans, where they recovered a handgun and an AK47 rifle. 

HUNT will be sentenced on September 10, 2026, and faces the following penalties:

Count 1—charging possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances —carries a penalty of up to twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Count 2—charging the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime—carries a penalty of at least five years up to life that must run consecutively to all other terms of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to five years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Counts 3 and 4—charging being a felon in possession of a firearm—carries a penalty of up to fifteen years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, as to each count.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.  

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Liz Privitera of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ERIC ROGERS, (“ROGERS”), age 35, was sentenced on June 16, 2026, by United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. ROGERS was sentenced to 92 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

According to court documents, on October 10, 2024, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Department of Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) agents, and New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) special operations division officers arrived at ROGERS’s residence in New Orleans, to arrest him on an outstanding warrant. As officers approached, ROGERS fled into the house. Law enforcement then ordered ROGERS and all occupants to exit, but ROGERS refused to comply. An ATF special agent then called ROGERS on the telephone and instructed ROGERS to surrender with his shirt off and hands raised to show that he was unarmed. Shortly after, ROGERS exited the residence and surrendered to law enforcement. During a search of the residence, law enforcement discovered a stolen Sig Sauer, Model SP2022, .40 caliber pistol concealed among pots and pans beneath the kitchen sink. ROGERS knew that he was previously convicted of a felony offense and therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm. 

United States Attorney David I. Courcelle praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Department of Homeland Security Investigations and the New Orleans Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy L. Bell of the Violent Crimes Unit.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARWIN MORADEL VELASQUEZ (“VELASQUEZ”), age 40, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on July 2, 2026, for illegal reentry of previously removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to court documents, VELASQUEZ, an illegal alien, was found in St. Tammany Parish on December 31, 2025, by agents of the United States Customs and Border Patrol. VELASQUEZ had previously been removed to Honduras by the United States Department of Homeland Security on October 11, 2016.

United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced VELASQUEZ to time served and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. He also ordered VELASQUEZ transferred into Immigration and Customs Enforcement custody for removal back to Honduras.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters, of the General Crimes Unit, handled the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MOHAMMED HAMED (“HAMED”), age 34, was indicted for violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to court records, HAMED was arrested on June 10, 2026, pursuant to a previously issued criminal complaint.  An investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) revealed that from or about January 1, 2022 through December 31, 2023, HAMED purchased electronic nicotine delivery systems (ENDS), more commonly known as vapes, from SAFA Goods LLC (SAFA) in Florida and had the products shipped to Louisiana. When SAFA was no longer licensed, SAFA stopped directly shipping to Hamed. From on or about April 17, 2024 to December 9, 2024, HAMED wired approximately $1,606,117 to SAFA Goods in Florida. Shipping patterns changed to use middlemen’s addresses, some of whom also received wired funds. While the shipments appeared to stop on paper, HAMED continued to wire money to SAFA Goods. ATF discovered that HAMED’s information would often be embedded in the ordering information for another wholesaler outside of the state of Louisiana. HAMED also sold to a large amount of retail stores in and out of the Eastern District of Louisiana. ATF located multiple invoices which reflected products that HAMED is not legally licensed to sell. HAMED then collected checks and deposited them into a bank account. HAMED used this same bank account to wire large sums of money to wholesalers, such as SAFA Goods and AGX2 LLC.  This scheme was devised to defraud the state of Louisiana by not registering for a tobacco license but still distributing products to various retail locations in and out of the state. This fact was confirmed by matching checks received from the retailers to invoices found at the retailers. ATF estimates the loss to the State at approximately $880,000.

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

U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle 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 Courcelle praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney Greg Kennedy of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRIAN KEITH HICKS (“HICKS”), age 27, was charged in an unsealed four-count Indictment, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Count 1 charges HICKS with Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud, or Coercion, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1591(a)(1), (a)(2), and (b)(1). Counts 2 and 3 charge HICKS with being a Felon in Possession of Firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(8), and 2. Count 4 charges HICKS with Obstructing the Enforcement of Sex Trafficking Laws, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1591(d).

According to the indictment, between May 2025 and the present, HICKS trafficked an adult female from Texas and California, to engage in commercial sex acts in Louisiana and elsewhere.  On or about February 16, 2026, and April 15, 2026, HICKS knowingly possessed multiple firearms, even though he was previously convicted of attempted sex trafficking of a child, and of compelling prostitution of a victim under 18. In addition, between April 22, 2026, and the present, HICKS obstructed the investigation of the sex trafficking charge in Count 1.

For Count 1, HICKS faces a minimum of ten (10) years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, followed by a term of supervised release of five (5) years to life and a requirement to register as a sex offender. For Counts 2 and 3, HICKS faces a maximum penalty of fifteen (15) years of imprisonment, followed by three (3) years of supervised release. For Count 4, HICKS faces a maximum penalty of twenty-five (25) years of imprisonment, and five (5) years of supervised release. Each count also carries a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee and a fine of up to $250,000. 

U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle 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 Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney and Human Trafficking and Child Exploitation Task Force Leader Maria M. Carboni of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – On June 23, 2026, ROY ROBINSON (“ROBINSON”), age 34, of Gonzales, Louisiana, was sentenced to a total of 108 months imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee of $100, by U.S. District Judge Brandon S. Long, announced U.S. Attorney David I Courcelle.

ROBINSON had previously pled guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(A), as well as Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(a). 

According to the indictment, Thibodaux law enforcement officers observed a co-conspirator of ROBINSON’s purchase narcotics from ROBINSON in a parking lot. A subsequent search of ROBINSON’s vehicle along with executed search warrants of the co-conspirator’s residence yielded multiple firearms, a large sum of U.S. currency, and over 7,000 grams of methamphetamine. 

United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, the Thibodaux Police Department, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Violent Crimes Unit.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF).

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that On June 29, 2026, a federal jury found DONTE WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 32, guilty of possession of a firearm, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i), (Count Two). WILLIAMS also pled guilty, prior to trial, to possession, with the intent to distribute marijuana, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and taptendol, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C) and (b)(1)(D) (Count One) and felon in possession of a firearm/ammunition, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8) (Count Three). 

On February 22, 2024, the New Orleans Police Department Special Operations Division conducted surveillance using both Real Time Crime Center cameras and physical surveillance. Officers observed WILLIAMS conducting a hand-to-hand drug transaction in the parking lot of a business at North Claiborne Ave. Further surveillance showed WILLIAMS walking across North Claiborne Avenue to his apartment before returning to the same parking lot and an adjacent store. Officers detained WILLIAMS and found that he was in possession of multiple bags of marijuana and over $2,000 in United States currency. Based on these observations of drug distribution activity, officers secured a search warrant for WILLIAMS’s residence. Officers opened the residence with keys taken from WILLIAMS’s person. Inside, officers recovered five firearms, three of which were loaded; additional ammunition; approximately one pound of marijuana; over 2,100 tapentadol pills; over 200 fentanyl pills, some of which were pressed to resemble the pharmaceutical Oxycodone, and over 25 grams of methamphetamine. 

For Count One, WILLIAMS faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release. For Count Two, WILLIAMS faces between five years and up to life imprisonment, which term must run consecutively to any other term of imprisonment imposed, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. For Count Three, WILLIAMS faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. WILLIAMS also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah Dawkins and David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – VAN VESSEL, (“VESSEL”), age 50, of Houma, Louisiana was sentenced on June 24, 2026, by U.S. District Judge Lance Africk to 262 months imprisonment, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to possessing over 500 grams of methamphetamine intended for distribution, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.  

According to court records, during the early morning hours of May 18, 2025, Houma Police Department officers attempted to stop a vehicle driven by VESSEL for not having operating headlights and taillights. VESSEL fled from officers at a high rate of speed, but ultimately crashed his vehicle, and was arrested. A search of the vehicle VESSEL crashed revealed over seven (7) pounds of methamphetamine packaged in a large, vacuum sealed bag, located on the passenger floorboard. VESSEL later admitted to law enforcement that he knew the methamphetamine was in the vehicle, and that he possessed this methamphetamine for distribution purposes. 

United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, the Houma Police Department, and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MICHAEL DUHE, JR. (“DUHE”), age 21, of Metairie, Louisiana was charged on June 18, 2026, in a two count indictment for Transportation of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(1), (b)(1), and Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Minors, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(4)(B), (b)(2), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. If convicted, DUHE faces a mandatory minimum sentence of not less than five (5) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years, and/or a fine of up to $250,000.00, a term of supervised release of not less than five (5) years and up to life, after his release from prison. He also faces payment of a mandatory $200 special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, beginning on or about December 4, 2024, DUHE did knowingly transport, and attempt to transport, in interstate and foreign commerce, a visual depiction involving the use of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Also, beginning at an unknown time, and continuing until or about January 16, 2026, DUHE knowingly possessed images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of minors.

Through a partnership between state and federal authorities, the U.S. Attorney’s Office adopted the state charges and is now prosecuting DUHE in federal court. 

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

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

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – LOREALL GORDEN (“GORDEN”), age 38, of New Orleans, was sentenced by the U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance on June 17, 2026, to 87 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, and the payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

The defendant plead guilty to Counts 2 and 3 of the indictment. In Count 2,

the defendant was charged with distribution of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 84l(a)(l) and 841(b)(1)(c). In Count 3, the defendant was charged with distribution of heroin and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(l) and 841(b)(1)(c)). 

According to court documents, an individual GORDEN believed to be a legitimate buyer revealed that GORDEN worked with other individuals to distribute fentanyl and heroin from a house in New Orleans. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA - The United States Attorney’s Office announced today that a federal jury has convicted CHRISTIAN CONRAD CLAUS (“CLAUS”), age 57, after a two-week trial of one count of Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud and Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349; one count of Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343; one count of Conspiracy to Use a Facility in Interstate Commerce in Aid of Bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1952(a); one count of Use of a Facility in Interstate Commerce in Aid of Bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3); and one count of Making a False Statement to a Federal Agent, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2). The jury did not reach a verdict on one count of Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341.

Speaking to today’s conviction, First Assistant United States Attorney, and Acting Criminal Chief, Michael M. Simpson stated:

“Today’s verdict is a testament to the combined dedication and commitment of our office, in partnership with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, to ceaselessly pursue justice. Mr. Claus’s actions constituted a blatant breach of public trust, that threatened to undermine the public’s confidence in law enforcement. We will not allow public corruption, such as that perpetrated by Mr. Claus, to escape prosecution.”

“Mr. Claus flagrantly abused his trusted position as a sworn law enforcement officer to enrich himself. Actions like these erode public trust in law enforcement, and the FBI will continue its efforts to hold all who abuse that trust accountable.” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Charles Koger of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “The FBI thanks the jury and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their assistance in finding justice in this case.”

The indictment alleges that in 2019, CLAUS, who was then an NOPD police officer, conspired with a New Orleans homeowner, and a Nevada art appraiser, to submit a fraudulent insurance claim. The claim reported that valuable paintings had been stolen from the insured’s house, when in truth, the paintings were neither valuable, nor stolen. In this case, the homeowner agreed, in exchange for CLAUS using his police position to further the scheme, to share the insurance proceeds with CLAUS ,and to provide CLAUS with assistance in obtaining employment positions.

The fraud and fraud conspiracy charges are each punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment. The bribery, bribery conspiracy, and false statement charges are each punishable by up to five years imprisonment. Sentencing for each count of conviction, also includes a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release following imprisonment, and payment of a mandatory special assessment fee.

The homeowner, Fouad K. Zeton, and the appraiser, Michael Jon Schofield, previously pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. 

Sentencing has been scheduled for September 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. before Chief United States District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter.

First Assistant U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter, as well as the valuable efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Victim-Witness Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tiwana Wright, were in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – ZOE MARIE FRANCIS (“FRANCIS”), age 47, of New Orleans, was sentenced on June 24, 2026, after previously pleading guilty to theft concerning programs receiving federal funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A), to three years of probation, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

According to court documents, FRANCIS was the chief operating officer of the Institute of Women and Ethnic Studies (“IWES”), a non-profit organization based in New Orleans that received grants from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and other federal funds. In that role, FRANCIS embezzled funds for the benefit of herself and family members, including unauthorized expenditures for personal events and Amazon purchases. Using her authority with IWES, FRANCIS used falsified contracts to hide these expenses and invoices, and she granted herself unauthorized pay increases. 

On January 7, 2026, FRANCIS pleaded guilty before Judge Milazzo to Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A). Under the terms of FRANCIS’s plea agreement, FRANCIS agreed to pay at least $100,000 in restitution to IWES, and she also agreed to forfeit at least $150,000 in IWES funds that she spent on unauthorized expenses. 

On June 24, 2026, U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced FRANCIS to three years of probation, twelve months of home detention and payment of a $100 special assessment fee .

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services in investigating this matter. Trial Attorney Gary A. Crosby II of the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division, Fraud Section, and Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses, Deputy Chief of the Public Corruption Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.

The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit. 

Today, United States Attorney David I. Courcelle announced criminal charges against two defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud Medicare, Medicaid, and TRICARE, and other health care benefit programs. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The charges stem from schemes to submit claims for medically unnecessary respiratory pathogen panel (“RPP”) testing and fraudulent claims for care that a provider did not provide to patients. Additionally, arrests were announced by the State of Louisiana’s Attorney General’s Office pursuant to criminal charges against three defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud Medicaid.

“The charges announced today include some of the largest and most complex cases that the Department has prosecuted and reinforces the combined missions of the Department of Justice, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and our law enforcement partners,” said U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. “Our office, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to vigorously investigate and prosecute alleged perpetrators of fraud, and seek justice for those impacted by Health Care Fraud schemes.”

“The men and women of Louisiana get up and go to work every single day to provide for their families. Their tax dollars are intended for those in need. Nothing is more offensive than those who manipulate the system for their own benefit,” said Louisiana State Attorney General Liz Murrill.

The charges announced today by U.S. Attorney Courcelle are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death. Today’s Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: cases in 56 federal districts and 45 U.S. states and territories, with 50 state Medicaid Fraud Control Units participating, the most in Department history. In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a previously-charged $1.2 billion telemedicine fraud scheme. The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; the seizure of over $182 million in cash, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and full-spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms.    

Today’s coordinated enforcement action involves a whole-of-government approach, including: 

• Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
• 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
• Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
• 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.

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

Holly Broussard, 44, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud in connection with a scheme to submit fraudulent claims to Medicare, Medicaid, and other health care benefit programs for medically unnecessary respiratory pathogen panel (“RPP”) testing. As alleged in the indictment, Broussard, a sales representative for a diagnostic laboratory based in Louisiana, solicited orders for unnecessary RPP tests, to be bundled with COVID-19 tests, in order to maximize reimbursement from health care benefit programs. Broussard targeted providers in rural areas who had limited or no other options for treatment, including nursing homes and assisted living facilities that only needed COVID-19 testing. In total, Broussard caused the submission of over $51.7 million in claims for respiratory panel testing, of which the laboratory was reimbursed over $28.4 million. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney James McHale of the National Rapid Response Strike Force and Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.

Dr. Christopher Whipple, 41, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged by indictment with health care fraud in connection with a scheme to submit at least $5,900,000 in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare. As alleged in the indictment, Whipple, a licensed physician, submitted claims on behalf of patients for care he did not provide, including billing for in-person care despite being outside the state of Louisiana. Whipple also submitted claims using the identities of other providers without their permission and caused the submission of claims for care allegedly rendered after a patient had died. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Zakeria Haidary and Acting Assistant Chief Sara Porter of the Gulf Coast Strike Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Knight of the Eastern District of Louisiana. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra Giavotella of the Eastern District of Louisiana is handling asset forfeiture. 

Criminal actions in Louisiana State Court include:

Jaquala Robertson, 36, of Hammond, Louisiana, was arrested pursuant to a warrant for Medicaid fraud. As alleged in the arrest warrant affidavit, Robertson was the employer of Kirstan Wells as part of the Medicaid Self Direction Program and approved false claims for personal care services allegedly provided to Robertson’s child who was a Medicaid recipient while the child was actually present in a day care facility. The amount of money paid by Medicaid for these fraudulent claims was $5,532.95. The case is being prosecuted by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit with the permission of the District Attorney’s Office for the Nineteenth Judicial District. 

Kirstan Wells, 33, of Hammond, Louisiana, was arrested pursuant to a warrant for Medicaid Fraud. As alleged in the arrest warrant affidavit, Wells submitted false claims for providing personal care services to a Medicaid recipient for times when the recipient was actually in a day care facility. The amount of money paid by Medicaid for these fraudulent claims was $5,532.95. The case is being prosecuted by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit with the permission of the District Attorney’s Office for the Nineteenth Judicial District. 

Asha Clark, 23, of Mount Hermon, Louisiana, was arrested pursuant to a warrant for Medicaid fraud. As alleged in the arrest warrant affidavit, Clark was employed as a direct service work through the Medicaid Self Direction Program to provide personal care services for a Medicaid recipient. During her employment, Clark submitted fraudulent claims to Medicaid for services that were not rendered during two separate time periods when the recipient was incarcerated. The total amount paid by Medicaid for these fraudulent claims was $6,610.79. The case is being prosecuted by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit with the permission of the District Attorney’s Office for the Nineteenth Judicial District.   

The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, Texas, and West Coast Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Alabama, District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, District of Colorado, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Northern District of Georgia, District of Hawaii, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of Iowa, Southern District of Iowa, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nebraska, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, District of New Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Middle District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, Northern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Middle District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Pennsylvania, District of Puerto Rico, District of Rhode Island, District of South Carolina, District of South Dakota, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Virginia, Northern District of West Virginia, Southern District of West Virginia, Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Western District of Wisconsin; and State Attorneys General’s Offices, through their MFCUs, in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. In addition, the MFCUs for Alabama, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and Virigina participated in the investigation of federal cases announced today. 

Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here. 

The Eastern District of Louisiana, in particular, worked with the Department’s Health Care Fraud Unit of the Fraud Division and the following law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the Takedown: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Federal Bureau of Investigation; IRS-Criminal Investigations; Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit; and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. 

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JALEN C. VALDERY (“VALDERY”), age 27, was sentenced on June 10, 2026, to two years imprisonment, two years of supervised release, and payment of a $200 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

VALDERY previously plead guilty to unlawful possession of a postal key, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1704, and to unlawful possession of stolen mail, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708. 

According to court documents, VALDERY unlawfully possessed a United States Postal Service “arrow” key, which key is used to access authorized postal receptacles (“blue boxes”) of deposited mail. Further, he unlawfully possessed approximately 700 pieces of USPS stolen mail taken from those authorized receptacles

The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ERIK ROBERTO MACHADO-MENCIA, a/k/a “Roberto Machado-Mencia,” (“MACHADO-MENCIA”), age 37, a native of Honduras, pled guilty on June 11, 2026, to re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Sentencing is set for July 30, 2026.

According to the charging document, MACHADO-MENCIA was found in the United States on May 15, 2025, having reentered the United States without authorization from the Attorney General of the United States after being previously deported on December 16, 2019.

On May 15, 2025, a federal Border Patrol Agent was working on a highway interdiction on Interstate 12 near Lacombe, Louisiana. At approximately 6:45 a.m., a silver Toyota sedan passed their location eastbound on I-12. I-12 is a common route used by human/drug smugglers traveling from Texas to farther east in the United States. When the sedan passed that location, the agents noticed it had a Texas temporary paper license plate. From previous experience, smugglers will use a temporary paper license plate in order to appear legitimate. The agents decided to catch up with the vehicle to get more information. Once the agents caught up to the vehicle, they ran a computerized records/stolen vehicle check on the Texas license plate that revealed it to be a fictitious plate. Based on the direction of the vehicle, that it was traveling through a common smuggling route, and that it had a fake license plate, as a consequence, the agents stopped the vehicle and conducted an immigration inspection on its occupants. The agent went to the sedan and asked the front passenger and the rear passenger for their names and date of birth. The rear passenger told the agent that his name was “Roberto Machado-Mencia” and his date of birth. Records checks with that information found an ERIK ROBERTO MACHADO-MENCIA with the same date of birth. Records showed MACHADO-MENCIA is a citizen of Honduras who had been previously removed from the United States.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

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

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – PATRICK GARLAND (“GARLAND”), 40, California resident, was sentenced on June 10, 2026, for conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, and interstate transportation of stolen goods, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2314, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to the indictment, GARLAND, and others, conspired to transport stolen cigarettes that had been stolen during the burglary of a warehouse facility on November 21, 2024. The group then traveled out of state before being apprehended in Fort Stockton, Texas the following day, while still in possession of the cigarettes. The group was further implicated in similar burglaries in North Carolina and Georgia in February of 2024. 

United States District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced GARLAND to a total of 40 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Knightdale Police Department, Atlanta Police Department, Rockmart Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and Fort Stockton Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution. 

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A Louisiana nurse practitioner was sentenced today to 87 months in prison and three years of supervised release for causing over $12 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare for medically unnecessary cancer genetic tests. She was also ordered to pay $1,508,868.25 in restitution.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Scharmaine Lawson Baker, 59, of Fulshear, Texas, a licensed nurse practitioner and Medicare provider, received tens of thousands of dollars in illegal kickbacks in exchange for ordering expensive cancer genetic tests. Lawson Baker held herself out as an expert in Medicare regulations — authoring books on medical necessity and patient-provider relationships — while actively violating those very standards.

From October 2018 to October 2019, Lawson Baker worked as an independent contractor for a company that claimed to provide telehealth services. In her role, Lawson Baker signed hundreds of orders for medically unnecessary cancer genetic tests after brief phone calls with the patients, typically lasting less than 30 seconds, and without examining the patients. In a recorded call admitted at trial, a telehealth company’s phone operator told Lawson Baker that she would be “rolling in money” by signing the orders, and Lawson Baker responded with “Honey, I am not complaining.” The evidence at trial also showed that Lawson Baker ordered ovarian and cervical cancer tests for male patients, demonstrating that she was acting as a rubber stamp to get paid instead of providing real medical care. Lawson Baker never reviewed the results of any of the tests she ordered, including when the results showed that patients actually had variants predisposing them to certain cancers.

In total, Lawson Baker caused over $12.1 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, and the laboratories involved in the scheme received over $1.5 million in reimbursements from Medicare for the unnecessary testing Lawson Baker ordered. In exchange for signing these orders, Lawson Baker accepted kickbacks and bribes from the telehealth company — payments she later failed to disclose in her bankruptcy petition.

After a three-day jury trial in July 2025, a federal jury found Lawson Baker guilty of six counts of health care fraud.

Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division; U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle for the Eastern District of Louisiana; Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); and Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.

HHS-OIG and FBI investigated the case.

Trial Attorneys Samantha E. Usher and Gary A. Crosby II of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses for the Eastern District of Louisiana prosecuted the case. Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section assisted in the prosecution.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARWIN NOE MENDOSA-CRUZ, age 29, a citizen of Honduras, was charged by bill of information on June 8, 20206 with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of 8 U.S.C. ' 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to the bill of information, DARWIN NOE MENDOSA-CRUZ reentered the United States sometime prior to May 7, 2026, after having been previously removed on or about November 27, 2023. 

If convicted, DARWIN NOE MENDOSA-CRUZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SETH EMDE (“SETH”), age 23, resident of Randolph County, Alabama, pleaded guilty on June 10, 2026, to conspiracy to commit a federal offense against or defraud the United States or an agency thereof, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371; and communication of a false distress message to the United States Coast Guard, in violation of Title 24, United States Code, Section 521(c) announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to court documents, Melvin Emde, the father of SETH EMDE, attempted to evade prosecution in North Carolina, where he had been charged with a sex crime. Facing that pending case, Melvin Emde and SETH EMDE devised a plan to stage Melvin Emde’s death to avoid further legal proceedings. On August 7, 2023, the two men created a false report claiming that Melvin Emde had fallen into the Mississippi River during a fishing trip. SETH EMDE placed a 911 call asserting that his father had gone overboard, prompting a significant response by the United States Coast Guard. Subsequent investigation revealed that the distress report was fabricated and that both Melvin Emde and SETH EMDE knowingly provided false information as part of the scheme to help Melvin Emde avoid prosecution.

At sentencing, which is set for September 16, 2026, SETH faces a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment for the conspiracy count and a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment for communicating a false distress signal. Each offense also carries a potential supervised release term of up to three years and a fine of up to $250,000, along with a mandatory special assessment.

United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Coast Guard - Investigative Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that STERLING PIPKINS (“PIPKINS”), age 42, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on June 11, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, to drug trafficking. Sentencing is set for September 10, 2026.

According to court documents, PIPKINS sold cocaine to an individual he thought was a legitimate buyer during a controlled narcotics transaction in New Orleans on July 31, 2023. 

The maximum penalty for distributing cocaine is twenty years imprisonment, followed by a minimum of three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced that STERLING PIPKINS (“PIPKINS”), age 42, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on June 11, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, to drug trafficking. Sentencing is set for September 10, 2026.

According to court documents, PIPKINS sold cocaine to an individual he thought was a legitimate buyer during a controlled narcotics transaction in New Orleans on July 31, 2023. 

The maximum penalty for distributing cocaine is twenty years imprisonment, followed by a minimum of three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DENISE NATALY MIGLIORE (“MIGLIORE”),age 51, a resident of Franklinton, Louisiana, originally from Sydney, Australia, was charged on June 11, 2026 in a four-count indictment for making false statements in order to register to vote, and illegal voting in an election, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1015(f) and Title 52, United States Code, Section 20511(2)(B), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to the indictment, on or about October 6, 2022, and on or about October 22, 2024, MIGLIORE, at the time a legal permanent resident, knowingly made false claims to U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote in in a Federal election. On or about November 8, 2022, and November 5, 2024, MIGLIORE cast a ballot, which was obtained by falsely certifying that she was a U.S. citizen and eligible to vote, when, in fact, she was not eligible to vote because she was not a citizen of the United States.

If convicted, MIGLIORE faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years in prison, followed by three (3) years of supervised release. MIGLIORE also faces a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. 

U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle 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 Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this case. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – COREY JOHNSON, age 36, of Alexandria, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 9, 2026 to an indictment charging him with willfully conveying a bomb threat, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(e), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. Following his guilty plea, JOHNSON was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to a one‑year term of probation.

According to court documents, on November 7, 2025, JOHNSON became involved in a dispute with airport personnel over parking fees while attempting to exit a parking lot at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The dispute escalated to the point that deputies with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office had to respond and address the situation. After leaving the area visibly upset, JOHNSON twice called AVCOM, the airport’s operations center, claiming there was a bomb in the airport and threatening to harm the operator. Investigators with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation quickly connected these threatening calls to the earlier parking dispute, identified JOHNSON as the individual responsible, and subsequently arrested him. During the investigation, JOHNSON admitted to making the calls.

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, and the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office for their efforts in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –On May 14, 2026, SHAWN R. WARE, SR., age 53, was indicted on six-counts of wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to the indictment, WARE obtained over $4 million from over twenty victims between 2019 and the present, by falsely promising to invest the victims’ funds in fictitious business ventures. WARE promised the victims that they would receive significant returns on their investments within a short period of time. WARE induced victims to send him money by telling victims that he would invest their funds in real estate, a website business, computer equipment, sound equipment for rappers, and a night club. The indictment further alleges that WARE spent the victims’ money on luxury items and personal travel. When victims requested that their money be returned, WARE concocted phony excuses for the unavailability of their funds, and asked victims to send him additional money to do such things as “close out” a deal, release funds from overseas, move funds from a foreign bank account, or pay taxes.

If convicted of Counts One through Six, WARE faces a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years in prison, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000, per count.  A mandatory $100 special assessment fee for each count is also applicable.

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

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On June 5, 2026, defendant, PHALANDERS RASHAAD KING (“KING”), age 37, pleaded guilty, before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to Count One, Count Two, Count Three, Count Four, Count Five, and Count Six of the Superseding Bill of Information pending against him, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

Count One charged the defendant with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and distribute, five (5) grams or more of methamphetamine, forty (40) grams or more of a mixture of  fentanyl, and quantities of heroin and marijuana, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), 841(b)(1)(D) and 846. Count Two charged the defendant with distribution of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Count Three charged the defendant with distribution of forty (40) grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). Count Four charged the defendant with possession with intent to distribute five (5) grams or more of methamphetamine, and quantities of heroin and cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C). Count Five charged the defendant 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 Six charged the defendant with maintaining a drug-involved premises, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 856(a)(1).

As to Count One, Three, and Four, KING faces a term of imprisonment of between 5 and 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000 and at least four years of supervised release. For Count Two, the maximum penalty is up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release. For Count Five, a violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A)(i), the maximum penalties are between 5 years and up to life imprisonment, which must run consecutively to any other sentence of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release. For Count Six, the penalty is up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $500,000, and up to three years of supervised release. KING also faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 for each count to which he pled guilty. He is scheduled for sentencing on September 17, 2026.

According to court documents, on August 24, 2023, undercover agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted an operation to locate fentanyl distributors in the French Quarter. Through this effort, agents located KING’s co-defendants. Through 2023 and into 2024, undercover agents conducted ten purchases of fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine from KING’s co-defendants, and eventually from KING himself. Through surveillance operations and a court-authorized wire interception of KING’s phone, agents established that KING conspired with his co-defendants to distribute these drugs, utilizing an apartment and a storefront that KING maintained in the Central Business District of New Orleans. Agents executed a search warrant on those two locations in May 2024, that allowed the recovery of additional controlled substances, fourteen firearms, and over $10,000 in U.S. currency. In total, over the course of the investigation, agents recovered over 300 grams of fentanyl and over 300 grams of methamphetamine from members of the conspiracy.

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Dawkins and Brittany L. Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On June 5, 2026, defendant, GLENN TATE (“TATE”), age 36, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to Count Two, Count Four, Count Five, Count Six, Count Seven, Count Eight, Count Nine, Count Ten, Count Eleven, and Count Thirteen of the superseding indictment pending against him, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

Counts Two, Four and Five charged the defendant with distribution of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Counts Six and Eight charged the defendant with distribution of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).  Counts Seven and Thirteen charged the defendant with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). Counts Nine and Ten charged the defendant with distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(B). Count Eleven charged the defendant with distribution of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C). 

As to each of Counts Two, Four, Five, and Eleven, TATE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. For each of Counts Six and Eight, the penalties are a mandatory minimum of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least four years of supervised release. For each of Counts Nine and Ten, the penalties are a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least five years of supervised release. For Counts Seven and Thirteen, the maximum penalties are up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. Each charge carries a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. TATE is set for sentencing on September 10, 2026.

According to court documents, on August 24, 2023, undercover agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) conducted an operation to locate fentanyl distributors in the French Quarter. Through this effort, agents located TATE’s co-defendant and eventually began controlled purchases directly from TATE. Through 2023 and into 2024, agents conducted eight purchases from TATE of fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine. In total, agents purchased over 200 grams of fentanyl and over 200 grams of methamphetamine from TATE. TATE also sold a firearm to the undercover agents, though he himself is prohibited from firearm possession because he is a previously convicted felon.

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Dawkins and Brittany L. Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –RICARDO JIMENEZ RAMOS (“JIMENEZ RAMOS”), age 58, and DARIEL HERNANDEZ GARCIA (“HERNANDEZ GARCIA”), age 33, residents of Laplace, Louisiana, were sentenced by United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess, and possession with intent to distribute, 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A) and 846, and possession with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

JIMENEZ RAMOS was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and $200.00 in mandatory special assessment fees, and HERNANDEZ GARCIA was sentenced to 72 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and $200.00 in mandatory special assessment fees. 

According to court documents, on September 10, 2023, St. John the Baptist Sheriff’s Office deputies seized 69 kilograms of cocaine from a co-conspirator’s, residence in Laplace, LA. Continued investigation by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and Saint John Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies revealed that HERNANDEZ GARCIA, JIMENEZ RAMOS, and others, conspired to conduct large-scale cocaine transactions utilizing a vessel off the coast of the Gulf of America (Gulf of Mexico). On March 19, 2024, DEA agents seized 85 kilograms of cocaine from a residence in Laplace where HERNANDEZ GARCIA, JIMENEZ RAMOS and another co-conspirator were living.  This cocaine was smuggled in through a marina at Grand Isle, and these co-conspirators intended to distribute it throughout the United States.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF New Orleans comprises agents and officers from the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Bureau of Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the DEA and St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Sarver, now serving with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Schiffman, of the Narcotics Unit for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  DANIEL IULIAN TEUTOC (“TEUTOC”), also known as “Simon Mikula,” citizen of Romania, was sentenced on June 4, 2026, in connection with  a nine-count indictment against him for conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343, 1344, and 1349; conspiracy to commit access device fraud, in violation of Title 18 , United States Code, Sections 371, 1029(a)(3) and 1029(a)(4); and seven counts of possession of 15 or more unauthorized access devices, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(a)(3), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.  

According to court documents, TEUTOC, and others, went to Walmart stores across the Eastern District of Louisiana, including Laplace, Slidell, Harvey, Boutte, Chalmette, and New Orleans. TEUTOC, and others, captured card information at different the points of sale, where previously installed card skimming devices had been installed by other members of the conspiracy.  TEUTOC, and others, used magnets to activate the card skimmers and send the card information electronically to TEUTOC, and others’, cell phones.  After gaining possession of the Walmart customer credit, debit, and EBT card information, TEUTOC, and others, sent the information to another co-conspirator with the intent to allow members of the conspiracy to make fraudulent charges with the stolen card information.

United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced TEUTOC to sixty months of incarceration and two years of supervised release, and ordered him to pay $11,275,777.90 in restitution. 

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations, United States Secret Service, New Orleans Police Department, St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office, and St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Paul J. Hubbell of the Narcotics Unit, Nicholas Moses, Deputy Chief of the Public Corruption Unit, and André Jones, lead OCDETF Narcotics Task Force Attorney, are in charge of the prosecution.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –HECTOR MONDRAGON-FLORES (“MONDRAGON”), age 33, and EDWIN SALGADO-NUNEZ (“SALGADO”), age 31, were sentenced on May 21, 2026, by U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe for multiple felony offenses including kidnapping and conspiracy to commit kidnapping, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.

MONDRAGON was sentenced to 27.5 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, along with an $800 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously being convicted by a jury of all eight counts of a superseding indictment against him. The jury found MONDRAGON guilty of kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1201(a)(1) and 1201(c); two counts of interstate transmission of a ransom demand, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(a); conspiracy to receive a ransom payment, and two counts of receipt of a ransom payment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1202(a) and 371; and assault on a federal officer using a deadly weapon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 111(a)(1) and (b).

SALGADO was sentenced to 22 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, along with a $500 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to five counts of a superseding indictment against him. SALGADO pleaded guilty to kidnapping, and conspiracy to commit kidnapping, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1201(a)(1) and 1201(c); interstate transmission of a ransom demand, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 875(a); and conspiracy to receive a ransom payment, and receipt of a ransom payment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1202(a) and 371.

According to court documents and evidence at trial, on October 2, 2024, MONDRAGON and SALGADO kidnapped the victim and bound his feet together and bound the victim’s hands together behind his back.  The two men then held the victim at gunpoint in MONDRAGON’s apartment, and demanded payment of a $7,000 ransom from the victim’s father for his son’s release. MONDRAGON called the victim’s father over 50 times and threatened to kill the victim if the ransom was not paid. The victim’s father agreed to pay the ransom but reported the kidnapping to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) on his way to the ransom exchange. NOPD detectives monitored the ransom exchange and arrested SALGADO after the victim’s father paid $3,000 cash to an associate of MONDRAGON and SALGADO. Before he was arrested, SALGADO attempted to flee by ramming a law enforcement vehicle.

Following SALGADO’s arrest, MONDRAGON took the victim at gunpoint to co-defendant Janette Ramirez’s apartment. MONDRAGON then demanded a ransom payment from the victim’s girlfriend for his release. After the victim’s girlfriend was unable to successfully transfer the payment to MONDRAGON or Ramirez, MONDRAGON took the victim at gunpoint to an ATM.  The victim then withdrew $400 and gave it to MONDRAGON to secure his release. 

The next day, law enforcement officers spotted MONDRAGON at an apartment complex in New Orleans East. When officers attempted to arrest him, MONDRAGON pulled out a gun, forced his way into an occupied apartment, and took a hostage inside the apartment. The hostage escaped when MONDRAGON attempted to climb out of a window. As MONDRAGON was kicking out the window screen, he pointed his gun at two law enforcement officers, who forced him to turn back inside. MONDRAGON barricaded himself in the apartment for nearly eight hours until the NOPD SWAT team deployed tear gas and forced him to surrender. 

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

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys David Berman and Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –MAYCOL JAVIER CARCAMO-ANTUNEZ (“CARCAMO-ANTUNEZ”), age 21, a native of Honduras, was sentenced on June 4, 2026 to six (6) months imprisonment by U.S District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown after pleading guilty to illegal entry into the United States, and avoidance of examination and inspection by U.S. immigration officials, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1325(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to court documents, CARCAMO-ANTUNEZ, an illegal alien, was ordered removed from the United States on January 8, 2026 by an immigration judge in New Orleans. On April 15, 2026, at approximately 7:00am, Immigration and Customs Enforcement officers located CARCAMO-ANTUNEZ in a vehicle in Tangipahoa Parish. Officers attempted to apprehend and arrest CARCAMO-ANTUNEZ but he accelerated his vehicle away from the officers, eventually disembarking and barricading himself inside a trailer residence in Tangipahoa Parish for over 13 hours. Immigration enforcement officers then acquired a signed criminal Complaint and Search Warrant, entered the residence and arrested CARCAMO-ANTUNEZ.

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

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs in investigating this matter. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters, of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  On May 27, 2026, REUBEN WEBB (“WEBB”), age 33, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty to two counts of a four-count indictment charging him with violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and the Federal Gun Control Acts, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.  In Count 2, WEBB is charged with possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C).  In Count 3, WEBB is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). 

U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry will sentence WEBB on September 2, 2026.

According to court documents, beginning in August 2024, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, (ATF) conducted a joint criminal investigation within the Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans.  On September 9, 2024, NOPD conducted surveillance from the Real Time Crime Center, focusing on the 8800 block of Fig Street. While conducting surveillance, detectives observed a known individual standing on the front porch of a residence, in possession of a firearm. Minutes later, WEBB arrived at the same residence, driving a gray Jaguar F-Pace with no license plate. WEBB exited the driver’s seat while possessing a firearm.  Shortly after, WEBB walked to a nearby store.  Uniformed officers entered the store and attempted to apprehend WEBB, but he fled the store.  Officers detained WEBB shortly thereafter.   When the officers searched WEBB’s waistband area, they discovered a Glock Model 29 Gen 4, 10-millimeter pistol, bearing serial number BYWN588. The firearm was equipped with a magazine containing fifteen (15) live rounds of 10mm ammunition with one live round in the chamber. 

After WEBB’s September 2024 arrest, members of law enforcement continued to investigate him. After learning that he continued to illegally possess firearms and engage in drug trafficking, despite being on bond from his earlier arrest, NOPD detectives obtained a search warrant for WEBB’s Instagram account. This search  revealed pictures of WEBB in possession of firearms and Tapentadol. The search also revealed messages regarding the sale of controlled substances between WEBB and others. In response, detectives obtained court authorization to monitor WEBB’s location.

On May 15, 2025, NOPD detectives located WEBB in the same 2019 Jaguar F-Pace car as before and detained him. A narcotics-trained canine was deployed to conduct an open-air sniff investigation upon WEBB’s vehicle. The canine alerted to the right and left door handles of the vehicle. As a result, after obtaining a search warrant for WEBB’s vehicle, officers located yet another Glock Model 29, Gen 4, 10-millimeter pistol, bearing serial number BNTG133, inside of the glove box. 

A search warrant was also obtained for WEBB’s residence in the 2400 block of General Ogden Street. During the search, detectives recovered items/paraphernalia used by drug traffickers for distributing controlled substances, including packaging materials, two digital scales, a vacuum sealer, as well as 180 tablets of Tapentadol.

Additionally, officers recovered a stolen, Kel-Tec Model PLR-16, AR-15 pistol, bearing serial number PD468, one (1) live round of 10mm caliber ammunition, two (2) boxes of .223 live rounds of ammunition, one (1) live round of .40 caliber ammunition, one black magazine containing thirty-eight (38) live rounds of 2.23x56 caliber ammunition, and one Magpul 60 round drum magazine. 

Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Violent Crime Unit.

The alleged total loss to the Small Business Administration for the fraudulent loans is $447,305.98.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle announced a two-count bill of information, charging AMANDA CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS (“CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS”), age 44, with wire fraud and tax evasion. 

Count One charged CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS with wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.  Count Two charged CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS with tax evasion, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 7201.

According to the bill of information, between April 2020 and January 2021, CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS submitted twelve false and misleading applications for loans through the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) program, seeking approximately $1.3 million. It is alleged that, as a result of these applications, CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS received approximately $447,305.98 through fraud.  CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS then used the PPP and EIDL funds for personal and unauthorized expenses, including for a mortgage payment on her personal residence.  In addition, CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS attempted to evade paying income tax by filing a false form with the IRS in November of 2022, which substantially understated her monthly income and assets.

If convicted of Count One, CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS faces up to twenty (20) years of imprisonment. If convicted of Count Two, CLAYBORNE-WILLIAMS faces up to five (5) years of imprisonment. Each count also carries a term of supervised release for up to three (3) years and a fine of up to $250,000.  A mandatory $100 special assessment fee for each count is also applicable.

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 Courcelle reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service on this investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.  Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – ROBERT HINES (“HINES”), age 47 of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, plead guilty on May 28, 2026, to violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act before United States District Judge Barry Ashe, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.

HINES pleaded guilty to Counts 1, 3, and 4 of a superseding indictment. Count One of the superseding indictment charged him with conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, over 40 grams of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846. Count Three charged him with knowingly using a telephone in committing the commission of a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 843(b) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2. Count Four charged him with possession with intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).

For Counts 1 and 4, HINES faces a mandatory minimum term of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment. For Count 3, HINES faces up to 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years supervised release following imprisonment. For each count, HINES

also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court records, HINES conspired with co-defendants to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl in the Eastern District of Louisiana. An investigation revealed that, HINES discussed ordering fentanyl from his suppliers on multiple occasions. After observing HINES meet with his supplier, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of HINES and observed HINES throw fentanyl pills out of his car window. Law enforcement recovered the pills, and they tested positive for 341 grams of fentanyl.

United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit. 

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Today, a federal grand jury indicted DUSTIN BADEAUX, (“BADEAUX”), age 41, of New Orleans, for bank robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to court documents, on May 9, 2026, BADEAUX robbed a bank located in the 4000 block of Canal Street of approximately $1800 in U.S. currency. 

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

U.S. Attorney Courcelle 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 Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Violent Crime Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is prosecuting the matter.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – UBALDO YASIR AMAYA-COLINDRES (“AMAYA-COLINDRES”), age 27, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty on May 28, 2026, to reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. His sentencing is set before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon on June 25, 2026.

According to the bill of information, AMAYA-COLINDRES reentered the United States sometime prior to March 1, 2026, after having been previously removed on or about June 13, 2024. 

AMAYA-COLINDRES faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – OSCAR PAZ-MEJIA (“PAZ-MEJIA”), age 33, a native of Honduras, was indicted for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to the indictment, on May 26, 2026, PAZ-MEJIA was found to have allegedly reentered the United States, after being previously deported on or about May 24, 2023. For this offense, PAZ-MEJIA faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. 

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

United States Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ERLIN JOVANY GAMEZ MALDONADO ("GAMEZ-MALDONADO")  , age 29, a native of Honduras, was indicted on May 28, 2026, for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(5)(A) and 924(a)(8), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to court documents, on or about May 4, 2026, GAMEZ-MALDONADO, an individual unlawfully present in the United States, was found to have possessed an Anderson Manufacturing, Model AM-15 rifle, multi-caliber firearm. 

If convicted, GAMEZ-MALDONADO faces a maximum penalty of 15 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

United States Attorney Courcelle 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 Courcelle praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RYAN LAJOIE (“LAJOIE”), age 28, a resident of St. Bernard Parish, was sentenced on May 21, 2026 by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 142 months’ imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and $200.00 in mandatory special assessment fees after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute five (5) grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), and distribution of a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to court documents, in July 2025, the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office (SBSO) received a tip that someone was selling marijuana and methamphetamine at a residence located in St. Bernard Parish. SBSO Narcotics Agents conducting surveillance in the area observed LAJOIE and two others enter the residence. Minutes later, LAJOIE exited the residence and rode away on a bicycle. Agents attempted to approach LAJOIE, but LAJOIE led the agents on a chase and discarded several items during his flight from the agents. Agents eventually arrested LAJOIE and recovered approximately 43 grams of methamphetamine, a cell phone and a digital scale from the area in which LAJOIE discarded the items.

Agents interviewed the two individuals at the residence who both  admitted that they purchased methamphetamine from LAJOIE. Agents seized 0.93 grams of methamphetamine from them.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LORENZO SMITH (“SMITH”), age 20, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter on May 12, 2026 to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, along with a $500 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846; distribution of a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B); and two counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to court documents, over the course of five transactions between November 2024 and January 2025, SMITH, and his co-conspirators, sold fentanyl, methamphetamine, and firearms to persons he believed to be legitimate buyers. The conspiracy involved over 640 grams of fentanyl and over 1200 grams of methamphetamine, of which more than 800 grams was pure methamphetamine. In total, SMITH, and his co-conspirators, sold 13 guns to the persons he believed to be legitimate buyers, including several AR-15 pistols and an AK-47-style rifle.  

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TIFFANY CARTER (“CARTER”), age 41, of LaPlace, Louisiana pleaded guilty on May 19, 2026, before U.S. District Judge William J. Crain, to False Statements to the Small Business Administration (SBA), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to court documents, CARTER made materially false statements and representations to the SBA, resulting in her obtaining fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) loans. The total loss to the SBA for the loans is $731,972.00.

At sentencing, CARTER faces up to 5 years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000.00, a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00, and supervised release for a period of up to three (3) years. Judge Crain set sentencing for August 18, 2026. 

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 Courcelle praised the work of the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.  Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

Updated 6/2/2026

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARREN FOLEY (“FOLEY”), age 38, was sentenced on April 30, 2026 by U.S. District Judge Eldon Fallon to 26 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, after previously pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, FOLEY has previous felony convictions for aggravated assault of a police officer, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. On May 14, 2024, law enforcement officers spotted FOLEY, who had active warrants out for his arrest, in front of a residence on Magic Street in New Orleans. FOLEY fled into the residence and hid a Glock Model 26, nine-millimeter pistol, that was equipped with an extended magazine loaded with 20 rounds of ammunition.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ROBERT POLK (“POLK”), age 23, pleaded guilty on May 19, 2026 before Chief U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C); possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(a)(i); being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8); and possessing a stolen firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(j) and 924(a)(2), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to court documents, since at least 2024, POLK sold tapentadol and marijuana in the New Orleans area. On May 20, 2024, New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) officers encountered POLK at a tire shop on North Claiborne Avenue. POLK was in possession of a loaded handgun, and tapentadol pills and marijuana that he intended to sell. POLK was arrested but later released. On December 11, 2025, POLK stole a Glock Model 23 pistol from an associate. On December 30, 2025, law enforcement searched POLK’s residence and found the stolen Glock pistol hidden inside a cooler. Due to prior felony convictions in Arkansas for aggravated assault on a family, or household member, and terroristic threatening in the first degree, POLK is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

As to his drug-trafficking conviction, POLK faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to his conviction for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, POLK faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and up to life in prison, which must run consecutively to each other and any other sentence, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. As to his conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, POLK faces up to 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. As to his conviction for possessing a stolen firearm, POLK faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –JAIRO YOEL MONTOYA-AMADOR (“MONTOYA-AMADOR”), age 21, a Honduran national, was charged in a two-count indictment on May 22, 2026, for assaulting a federal officer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(a)(1)(A), and damaging government property, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1361, announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to the indictment, on May 14, 2026, as law enforcement officers attempted to pull over the vehicle he was driving and execute a box‑in maneuver, MONTOYA‑AMADOR tried to force his way out by ramming a pickup truck occupied by a United States Deportation Officer with Immigration and Customs Enforcement. In doing so, he forcibly assaulted the officer, who was performing official duties. He also caused more than $1,000 in damage to a Department of Homeland Security vehicle.

As a consequence, MONTOYA-AMADOR faces a maximum term of imprisonment of eight (8) years, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000, as to Count One of the indictment. He faces a maximum imprisonment of ten (10) years, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.00, as to Count Two of the indictment. A mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 applies to both counts. 

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

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

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe sentenced JULIO VALERIO-SENTENO (“VALERIO-SENTENO”), age 40, to time served after having pled guilty today to illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle. The Court also sentenced VALERIO-SENTENO to one (1) year of supervised release and ordered him to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, VALERIO-SENTENO was previously removed from the United States on July 1, 2011, February 27, 2012, and October 2, 2013. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on May 15, 2025, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to re-enter the United States.

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans of the General Crimes Unit is responsible for the prosecution.

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

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