Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MUNIRA SCHOFIELD, age 28, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, was charged last week for her role in preparing and filing false applications for loans related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act). SCHOFIELD was charged in a one-count bill of information with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343. SCHOFIELD’s co-conspirators, Lynn Schofield and Bashir Schofield, were charged previously. 

According to the charging document, MUNIRA SCHOFIELD, Lynn Schofield, and Bashir Schofield worked together to submit applications to obtain money from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster (EIDL) loans fraudulently. The applications they submitted contained numerous materially false statements, including that the applicant had a sole proprietorship and generated substantial income from the business by overinflating gross receipts. They also represented that the loan proceeds would be used for business released purposes, and the defendants intended to use the money for personal reasons. In fact, the entities either did not exist or earned far less money than MUNIRA SCHOFIELD, Lynn Schofield, and Bashir Schofield represented. 

LYNN SCHOFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on December 19, 2023, JEROME SHAQUILLE WILSON (“WILSON”), age 27, of Bogalusa, plead guilty to Counts 1, 2, 3, and 4 while GERROY TOCA (“TOCA”) age 20 of New Orleans, plead guilty to Counts 1, 2, and 3 of a superseding indictment.

Count 1 charged WILSON and TOCA with conspiring to distribute Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(b)(1)(C) and Title 21, United States Code, Section 846.  Count 2 charged WILSON and TOCA with conspiring to possess firearms in furtherance of  drug trafficking activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o).  Count 3 charged WILSON and TOCA with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  Count 4 charged WILSON with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

For Count 1, WILSON and TOCA face up to (20) twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least (3) three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

For Count 2, WILSON and TOCA face up to (20) twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to (3) three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

For Count 3, WILSON and TOCA face a up to (5) five years in prison, to be run consecutive to all other counts, a fine of up to $250,000, up to (3) three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

For Count 4, WILSON faces up to (15) fifteen years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to (3) three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

On December 6, 2022, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) special agents (agents) conducted surveillance of the 1900 block of Frenchmen Street in New Orleans.  Their surveillance was for an unrelated investigation during which they observed JEROME SHAQUILLE WILSON.  WILSON drove a white Dodge Challenger with one passenger, who was later identified as GERROY TOCA.  Agents observed TOCA, WILSON, and a third co-defendant Harry Banks engage in apparent illegal narcotics transactions, while in possession of firearms.  Agents observed Banks enter the white Dodge Challenger and exit with a pistol in his left hand. Banks then appeared to conceal the firearm in his waistband.  TOCA was found with several suspected Tramadol pills and a Polymer Model P80, 9-millimeter pistol.  The firearm also had a Glock Model 19 slide.  ATF Agents notified the New Orleans Police Department who detained TOCA and Banks.  During the search, officers recovered a Sarsilmaz Model Sar 9, 9-millimeter pistol, from inside the center console of the vehicle.

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Mike Trummel of the Violent Crimes Unit. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JUNIETH BETANCO-HERNANDEZ, age 19, was sentenced on December 19, 2023 to probation for a term of one year for illegally using a social security number, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

According to court documents, BETANCO-HERNANDEZ was first  arrested, by the U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) near Hidalgo, TX, on or about September 30, 2022. BETANCO­-HERNANDEZ was later determined to be unlawfully present and inadmissible into the United States. She was released from custody by USBP and instructed to report to Immigration and Customs Enforcement in New Orleans. In conjunction with her release, BETANCO-HERNANDEZ was enrolled in the “Alternative to Detention” program, run by BI Incorporated (BI) and provided a GPS device to monitor her location in the United States. 

On or about March 28, 2023, BETANCO-HERNANDEZ reported to BI's office and presented her immigration documents consisting of a Louisiana state ID featuring her name and photograph, and a Social Security Card. Through investigation, Homeland Security Investigations agents determined that BETANCO-HERNANDEZ was not the individual to whom that social security number had been issued. To the contrary, agents confirmed that the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration had instead, issued that social security number to another individual.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that HAVON MONTGOMERY, age 19, of New Orleans, was charged on December 14, 2023 in Count 1 of a two-count indictment with for Unlawful Possession and Use of a United States Postal Service (USPS) mail “arrow” key, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1704. Such keys are used by Postal Service employees to access authorized mail receptacles. Additionally, MONTGOMERY was charged in Count 2 with Possession of Stolen Mail that had been deposited into authorized mail receptacles, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708.

According to the indictment, on August 22, 2023, the defendant was found in possession of approximately 132 pieces of stolen mail as well as the USPS mail key. If convicted, MONTGOMERY faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment on the  unlawful possession of the United States Postal Service mail key count, and up to five (5) years imprisonment on the possession of the stolen mail items count. Each count carries up to three (3) years of supervised release following any prison term, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. United States Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.  

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

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that MICHAEL WHITE, age 44, and JOHN WHITE, age 44, both of Kentwood, Louisiana, were charged in a recently unsealed indictment with one (1) count of Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with Intent to Distribute forty (40) grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), and two (2) counts of Distribution of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).

According to the indictment, MICHAEL WHITE and JOHN WHITE conspired with each other and with others, to distribute fentanyl. If found guilty of any of the three counts, they face a minimum of 5 years up to a maximum of 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, and up to four years of supervised release. All three counts also carry a mandatory $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration-Fentanyl Overdose Response Team, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Hammond Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LA – DAJUAN MARTIN, age 24, of New Orleans, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to thirty-three (33) months imprisonment, three (3) years of supervised release and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, MARTIN was arrested on June 13, 2022, by New Orleans Police Department officers for driving a stolen scooter. When MARTIN fled from officers, he discarded a loaded Glock, 9millimeter handgun. MARTIN had previously been convicted in 2017 and 2018 for illegal carrying of a weapon. These convictions prohibited his possession of a firearm.

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

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nick Rayburn of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RODNEY OFFRAY, age 49, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on December 19, 2023 before U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion to a three-count indictment charging him with distribution of fentanyl and heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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

For Count 1, OFFRAY faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For Counts 2 and 3, OFFRAY faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of five years, up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Additionally, OFFRAY faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that FLORENCE RANDLE (“F. RANDLE”), age 72, of Gibson, Louisiana, was sentenced on December 13, 2023 after previously pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.

According to court records, F. RANDLE recruited and directed passengers to participate in staged automobile collisions with tractor-trailers on May 17, 2017 and June 6, 2017. The passengers in these collisions filed fraudulent lawsuits that falsely claimed the tractor-trailers were at fault. F. RANDLE, and her co-conspirators, coordinated with others, including attorney, Patrick Keating, to arrange the staged collisions.  

U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced RANDLE to serve 24 months of probation. RANDLE was ordered to pay  $63,508.00 in restitution and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

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

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JAMES THOMAS SINYARD, a/k/a Jay Sinyard (“J. SINYARD”), MARY GIGI SINYARD a/k/a Gigi Sinyard (“M. SINYARD”), JOHN SUTTON (“SUTTON”), and MARC QUIROZ (“QUIROZ”), were sentenced after each previously pled guilty to one count of wire fraud.

According to the bills of information, J. SINYARD, M. SINYARD, SUTTON, and QUIROZ co-owned and operated companies called VetAttend of Jackson, LLC, and VetAttend Professional Services, LLC of Mandeville, Louisiana, where they purported to provide home aid and assistance services to veterans .   

On December 5, 2023, J. SINYARD was sentenced to 6 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. M. SINYARD was sentenced to one month of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.

On December 11, 2023, SUTTON was sentenced to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.

On December 14, 2023, QUIROZ was sentenced to 17 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Additionally, J. SINYARD, M. SINYARD, SUTTON, and QUIROZ each was ordered to pay a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to the bill of information that described the fraudulent scheme of J. SINYARD and M. SINYARD, the duo submitted more than one hundred fraudulent application affidavits for veterans and/or their surviving spouses, to the Department of Veterans Affairs (“VA”), falsely indicating that VetAttend of Jackson was already providing services to these veterans. As a result, from approximately August 2014 to approximately December 2020, the VA issued funds to over 70 veterans and/or their surviving spouses from whom VetAttend of Jackson fraudulently mis-appropriated approximately $2,136,329.68.

According to the bills of information for SUTTON and QUIROZ, they submitted fraudulent affidavits for home aid services allegedly provided, knowing that those services were not actually provided. More particularly, as part of their fraud scheme, from approximately April 2013 until at least July 2018, SUTTON and QUIROZ submitted fraudulent affidavits and applications to the VA on behalf of veterans and their spouses, falsely claiming that VetAttend had actually provided home services to the veterans. As a result,, the VA issued approximately $4,065,969.18 to over 300 veterans and/or their surviving spouses that SUTTON and QUIROZ  mis-appropriated, all without the knowledge of the veterans .

“These sentencings send a clear message that those who would exploit veterans to commit fraud will be investigated and held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Kris Raper with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s South-Central Field Office. “The VA OIG thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their efforts in this case.”

The case was investigated by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General.

The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – LARRY JAMES, age 23, ALVAREZ JOSEPH CYPRIAN, age 23, and ALSKIIN MILLICAN, age 21, all of St. Tammany Parish, were indicted on December 8, 2023, announced U.S Attorney Duane A. Evans. The indictment was unsealed following the arrest of JAMES, CYPRIAN, and MILLICAN.

In the indictment JAMES, CYPRIAN, and MILLICAN were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. JAMES was charged with three counts of distribution of fentanyl and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. JAMES was also charged with being in possession of a stolen firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(j). CYPRIAN was charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). MILLICAN was charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).

If convicted of the drug conspiracy, JAMES and MILLICAN each a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 40 years, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least 4 years of supervised release, and CYPRIAN faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release. Additionally, if JAMES is convicted of being in possession of a stolen firearm, he faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release. For each count charged against them, JAMES, CYPRIAN, and MILLICAN also face payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department. Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on November 29, 2023 United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry entered a Final Judgment of Forfeiture against more than $118,000 worth of cryptocurrency seized from an individual involved in a pervasive computer-based scheme. The money will be returned to the victim.

According to the Verified Complaint for Forfeiture in Rem filed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in about January 2023, unidentified criminal actors colluded to access, without authorization, a computer belonging to a resident of the Eastern District of Louisiana. This unlawful access caused a pop-up message to appear on the victim’s computer screen instructing the victim to call a number purporting to be Apple Support for further assistance. The victim called the number and a hacker, impersonating Apple Support personnel, told the victim that hackers had accessed  the victim’s computer and made unauthorized financial charges to that account. The victim was instructed to enter a series of commands in the terminal screen so the computer could run an activity monitor and remove the purported hackers’ access to the victim’s computer.

Approximately one week later, another criminal actor impersonating a financial institution representative, called and advised the victim that the Federal Reserve had instructed the victim  to transfer money from the financial institution to Coinbase, a cryptocurrency exchange platform. The impersonator said that the Federal Reserve advised that the transfer must occur for safekeeping purposes until the Apple Support activity monitor program was complete. As a result, between July 29, 2022, and August 8, 2022, the victim transferred approximately $118,753.47 to a Coinbase account.

Shortly thereafter, the victim became concerned about the legitimacy of the scheme and contacted the Federal Reserve, Consumer, Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General (OIG CFPB OIG). OIG CFPB OIG and United States Secret Service analysts successfully traced funds to the victim’s Coinbase deposits and learned that the funds were quickly laundered through a series of cryptocurrency addresses. Through the issuance of legal process and, ultimately, the Final Judgment of Forfeiture, the funds were recovered and will soon be returned to the victim. Civil forfeiture prevents unjust enrichment where criminal prosecution is unfeasible.

Cyber incidents and data breaches such as this are increasingly common and continue to proliferate globally. But they can be prevented. Here are some tips:

• Configure your firewalls to block access to known malicious IP addresses.
• Update operating systems, software and firmware on devices.
• Be on the lookout for requests to transfer funds, especially if the request is pronounced with a sense of urgency.
• Be cautious with strangers. Don’t send payments to unknown people or organizations seeking monetary support or urge immediate action. 

For more information visit the Secret Service’s Preparing for a Cyber Incident page.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service and the Federal Reserve, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Alexandra Giavotella, Asset Forfeiture Coordinator, of the Monetary Penalties and Recovery Unit, handled this case.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TEMIKA SANTEMORE, age 44, a resident of Houston, Texas, was sentenced on December 12, 2023 to four months of probation by U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey after previously pleading guilty to making false statements and theft of government funds related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

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

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

In addition, the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) program was a U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) program that provided low-interest financing to small businesses, renters, and homeowners in regions affected by declared disasters. The CARES Act provided funding for EIDL loans for business affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. In contrast to the PPP, EIDL loan amounts were determined based on the recipient businesses’ historical revenue and disbursed directly to the recipient by the SBA.

According to the charging documents, SANTEMORE made false statements to the SBA to fraudulently obtain approximately $13,540 in pandemic-related relief loans, including PPP funds, that were funded by the federal government. SANTEMORE also applied for an EIDL from the SBA in July of 2020 and illegally received $5,000 for a dormant business that she owned.  

In addition to probation, SANTMORE was ordered to pay a $200 mandatory special assessment, serve 150 hours of community service and pay restitution in the amount of $187,027.86.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Amtrak Office of Inspector General – Criminal Investigations, the Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that EMANUEL ROSS, age 24, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on December 13, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to 63 months imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) and Possession of a Machinegun in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o). Judge Lemelle also placed ROSS on supervised release for three (3) years following his release from imprisonment and ordered him to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee for each count of conviction.

Court documents reveal that the Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department began investigating ROSS in mid-2022 and discovered an online video of him firing a pistol that had been converted into a machine gun through a “switch” device. A warrant-based search of ROSS’s residence by law enforcement officials on January 27, 2023, revealed the presence of cocaine, fentanyl and various weapons including the machine gun seen on the online video.

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.

United States Attorney Evans praised work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crimes Task Force, and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Violent Crime Unit handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MELVIN CONTRERAS, age 33, a resident of Bronx, New York, pled guilty on December 7, 2023 to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on May 2, 2022, a Louisiana State Trooper conducted a traffic stop of a 2005 Peterbilt tractor-trailer bearing a New Jersey license plate on Interstate 12 East to perform a motor carrier inspection.  The trooper identified CONTRERAS as the driver of the tractor and Pedro Sarante as the passenger in the sleeper area of the tractor-trailer.

The trooper interviewed both vehicle occupants regarding their itinerary and cargo.  Neither of them could identify the cargo or detail their itinerary.  Troopers conducted a consensual search of the vehicle and seized three (3) rolling duffel bags containing approximately seventy-four (74) kilograms of cocaine from the sleeper area of the tractor-trailer.  The troopers arrested both CONTRERAS and Sarante.

In a post-arrest interview, Sarante informed law enforcement that he and CONTRERAS were hired to travel from New York to Baytown, Texas to pick up a load of narcotics and were to be paid $1,000.00 per kilogram when they delivered the drugs to Newark, New Jersey.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that FELIX MACKEY pled guilty on December 13, 2023 to violating the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo.

MACKEY pled guilty to Counts 1 and 5 of the indictment. Count 1 charges him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine hydrochloride, and cocaine base, all Schedule II controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and Title 21, United States Code, Section 846. Count 5 charges him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).

For Count 1, MACKEY faces a mandatory minimum of ten (10) years imprisonment up to a maximum of life in prison, a fine of up to $10,000,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person, and a term of supervised release for a period of not less than five (5) years but up to life. For Count 5, he faces up to ten (10) years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release. Additionally, MACKEY faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 per count . MACKEY’s sentencing is set for March27, 2024.

According to court documents, in May 2021, MACKEY sold methamphetamine to a confidential source on three occasions. On June 3, 2021, law enforcement executed a search warrant on MACKEY’s residence and found 92.127 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, 99.31 grams of cocaine, and 10.13 grams of cocaine base. Law enforcement also seized a black Taurus Model PT111, 9millimeter pistol, that was loaded with eleven (11) live cartridges. MACKEY was previously convicted of a felony in Plaquemines Parish. MACKEY admitted to sole ownership of all evidence recovered.

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 agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys, Bayonle Osundare, Christopher Usher, Nolan Paige, and Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.                                       

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that ELIAS SALAS, age 19, from Edinburgh, Texas, was sentenced on December 12, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 108 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. Judge Vitter ordered that SALAS be placed on supervised release for five (5) years following release from imprisonment and pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to the indictment, in March of 2023, SALAS knowingly conspired and agreed with others to pick up a bag he knew contained over 9 kilograms of pure methamphetamine in Dallas, Texas, and then work with others to transport the bag of narcotics from Texas to Kenner, Louisiana.

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

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

A Louisiana man was sentenced today to three years in prison for his role in a multi-year scheme to bill Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (DME).

According to court documents, from January 2016 to June 2022, Craig L. Lovelace, of Destrehan, billed Medicare and Medicaid through his DME supply company, Advanced Medical Equipment, Inc. (AME), approximately $11.4 million for supplying respiratory support and nutritional support DME — including ventilators, tracheostomy supplies, and feeding tubes — that were not medically necessary or not provided as represented, and for which AME was paid approximately $7.96 million. Lovelace then directed the forgery of medical records, physician notes, and provider signatures in response to audits and record requests to cover up the scheme. Lovelace personally obtained over $3.4 million in proceeds from the scheme, which he used to pay for personal vehicles, personal chef services, events, and entertainment.

On Aug. 17, Lovelace pleaded guilty to health care fraud.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans 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 Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry made the announcement.

HHS-OIG and the Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit investigated the case.

Trial Attorney Kelly Z. Walters of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses for the Eastern District of Louisiana prosecuted the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, 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, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on December 8, 2023, ORLIAN CABRERA-JOA, age 31, was indicted for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).

If convicted, CABRERA-JOA faces a minimum term of ten (10) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on December 8, 2023, ANACLETO SILVA-HERRERA, a/k/a “Chofer,” age 37, was indicted for possession with intent to distribute five (5) kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).

If convicted, SILVA-HERRERA faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – COREY HALE, age 32, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to 70 months incarceration after previously  pleading guilty  to a two-count indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).  Judge Fallon ordered that HALE  be placed on  supervised release for three (3) years following release from imprisonment.  HALE was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

According to public records, on May 26, 2020, a Louisiana State Police (“LSP”) trooper was conducting speed enforcement  near Marrero, LA.  The trooper clocked a blue Chevrolet HHR vehicle driving at 101 mph in a  60 mph zone.  After stopping the vehicle, the trooper determined that  HALE did not have insurance and turned off the ignition.  While doing so, the trooper saw and a marijuana and a Taurus Model G2c 9-millimeter firearm on the passenger floorboard of the car.  HALE then fled the scene on foot and escaped.  The trooper later learned the firearm was stolen and the temporary tag on the vehicle was fake.

On August 3, 2020, the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office charged HALE with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, as well as possession of narcotics.  On November 29, 2021, an attachment was issued for when HALE failed to appear in Jefferson Parish Criminal Court.  A bail bondsmen eventually attempted to locate and arrest HALE at his residence.  While doing so, they saw him flee into the backyard.  As the bondsmen struggled to arrest  HALE, they observed as he pulled a firearm from his waistband.  Thereafter, a gun shot went off, striking one of the agents.  Eventually, the bondsmen wrestled the firearm, a Bersa Model Thunder, .380 caliber semi-automatic handgun, out of HALE’s hands.  HALE later admitted to possessing the handgun.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  The case was  prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RONALD TAYLOR, age 31, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). According to the indictment, TAYLOR was in possession of three firearms and ammunition.

If convicted, TAYLOR faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine,  at least three years of supervised release, as well as a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Christine Calogero of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – VAIRON LOBO-BARAHONA, age 30, a native of Honduras, was indicted for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A), and illegal re-entry by  a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the indictment, on or about November 23, 2023, LOBO-BARAHONA, an alien illegally present in the United States, was found in possession of a Smith and Wesson handgun.

For the charge of being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, LOBO-BARAHONA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  For the charge of illegal re-entry by a removed alien, LOBO-BARAHONA faces a maximum  term of  imprisonment of 2 years, up to one (1) year of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine. He also faces payment of a  $100 mandatory special assessment fee as to each charge.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ULYSSES MERCADEL, age 25, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on December 5, 2023, to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

According to court documents, on July 15, 2023, New Orleans Police officers detained MERCADEL at the Walmart Supercenter on Tchoupitoulas Street, in New Orleans.  During a struggle to detain MERCADEL, officers removed a Plum Crazy Firearms Mod-M, .556/.223 caliber pistol from MERCADEL’s possession. This firearm was loaded, with one live round in the chamber and nineteen live rounds in the magazine. MERCADEL had been previously convicted of felonies, which prohibited him from possessing a firearm.

MERCADEL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following imprisonment, as well as payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  Sentencing is scheduled for March 19, 2024.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS –   ERIC SCOTT ALFORD, age 38, from Clinton, Mississippi, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Barry W. Ashe to interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(b), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, ALFORD was an adult male living in Clinton, Mississippi.  On about July 26, 2023, ALFORD contacted an undercover law enforcement officer purporting to be an adult female with a fourteen-year-old daughter (FA1) on a social network and messaging application designed for individuals interested in various “kink,” “fetish,” and alternative sexual practices.  ALFORD asked what “kinks” FA1 had.  Over the next several days, in his correspondence with FA1, ALFORD expressed the desire and intent to engage in various forms of sexual contact with FA1 and her fourteen-year-old daughter, both individually and collectively, on multiple occasions.  ALFORD reinforced his intent to FA1 by providing graphic descriptions of the sexual acts he desired.  ALFORD also frequently discussed and planned face-to-face meetings with FA1 and her daughter for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with each of them.  This included suggesting that they travel to his residence.  Separately, ALFORD directly communicated, via an instant messaging application, with the person he believed to be FA1’s minor daughter.  During that conversation, ALFORD again described sexual acts he intended to perform on and with FA1 and the child, individually and collectively. 

On August 2, 2023, ALFORD told FA1’s minor daughter that he was travelling to Hammond, Louisiana that evening for the purpose of first engaging in sex acts with FA1 and then engaging in sex acts with both FA1 and her daughter.  That evening, ALFORD drove his automobile from Flowood, Mississippi to Hammond, in furtherance of his intent to engage in sexual acts with FA1 and her minor daughter.

ALFORD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty (30) years followed by between five (5) years and a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  ALFORD may also be required to register as a sex offender.  Sentencing before Judge Ashe has been scheduled for March 28, 2024.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security- Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigations in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On December 7, 2023, United States District Judge Carl Barbier sentenced CRANDALL WASHINGTON to 168 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to two counts of the indictment pending against him for both conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and possession with intent to distribute, five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

Specifically, WASHINGTON was indicted on November 4, 2021 for possessing with intent to distribute 909 grams of crystal methamphetamine. According to court documents, WASHINGTON was stopped in his vehicle by law enforcement with three different bags of crystal methamphetamine, weighing approximately two (2) pounds. Following completion of his prison sentence, WASHINGTON also faces five (5) years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count.

U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MATHEW MAYE, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on December 7, 2023 before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to two counts of possessing goods stolen from an interstate shipment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659.

According to court documents, on March 29, 2023, MAYE and others stole a 2023 Ford F-150 and 2023 Ford Bronco Sport Outer Banks, from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility.  The cars were moving as part of an interstate shipment of freight and destined for Ford dealerships in Louisiana and Mississippi when MAYE and his accomplices stole them.  During the following week, MAYE was seen on surveillance video driving the stolen F-150 and riding as a passenger in the stolen Bronco Sport.

As to each count of possessing the stolen cars, MAYE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHRIS ROBERTSON, JR., age 24, of New Orleans, was indicted on December 1, 2023, for being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).  

According to the indictment, ROBERTSON, JR. has previous convictions for possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number and attempted illegal carrying of weapons while in possession of a controlled substance.

If convicted, ROBERTSON, JR. faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JIAQIN YE, age 28, a resident of Houston, Texas, was indicted on December 7, 2023, for making false statements to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) related to a government imposter scam.  

According to the charging documents, YE traveled from Houston, Texas, to a residence in Covington, Louisiana, for the purpose of picking up approximately $34,500.00 from the victim of a government imposter scam. When YE arrived, he was arrested by the FBI and made false statements relating to his prior involvement in similar schemes.

YE faces up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment due after conviction. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

For more information on how to prevent being the victim of fraud, please visit the Federal Trade Commission website at https://www.ftc.gov/. You can also report internet crime on the FBI Internet Crime Complaint Center website found at https://www.ic3.gov/.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the FBI in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced FURRELL JOHNSON, age 33, of New Orleans, to 227 months in  prison for armed carjacking, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

JOHNSON pleaded guilty to two counts related to the carjacking of a Honda CRV on October 13, 2022, including carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.  According to court records, JOHNSON approached the victim as the victim was returning to his vehicle and snatched a key from the victim’s hand.  When the victim turned toward JOHNSON, JOHNSON pulled a black semi-automatic handgun from his waistband and pointed it at the victim.  JOHNSON and a still unidentified accomplice then fled in the vehicle.

Judge Africk sentenced JOHNSON to 71 months on the carjacking count, to be followed by three years of supervised release.  On the brandishing a firearm count, Judge Africk sentenced JOHNSON to 156 months to be served consecutively to the 71 months on the carjacking count, for a total sentence of 227 months. Judge Africk imposed five years of supervised release on the firearm count.  JOHNSON was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment feeper count.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DERRICK JOHNSON, age 26, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today before Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, JOHNSON was arrested on a state warrant at a New Orleans motel.  After the arresting officers saw two guns in the room, they called the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives for assistance. JOHNSON told the ATF agent who arrived that anything found in the room belonged to him. A female who rented the room consented to a search by the ATF agent. After searching, the agent found two handguns, a .380 pistol and a 9-millimeter pistol. JOHNSON admitted the guns were his. At the time, he had numerous prior felony convictions that prevented him from possessing a firearm.

Subsequently, JOHNSON pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms, namely the two pistol founds during the search of the motel room. At his April 11, 2024 sentencing,   JOHNSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on December 6, 2023, GREGORY WILLIAMS, age 30, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to four counts of a seven-count superseding indictment for drug and weapons violations. Sentencing is set for April 3, 2024.

In Count 4, WILLIAMS is charged with possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(d). For this charge, WILLIAMS faces up to 5 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and at least 2 years of supervised release.

In Count 5, WILLIAMS is charged with possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). For this charge, WILLIAMS faces a mandatory minimum sentence 5 years imprisonment up to life, which must run consecutively to any other term of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to 5 years of supervised release.

In Count 6, WILLIAMS is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).  For this charge, WILLIAMS faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and  up to 3 years supervised release.

Finally, in Count 7, WILLIAMS is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). As to this charge, WILLIAMS faces  up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each charged count, WILLIAMS faces payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

According to court documents, on February 10, 2022, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office (“JPSO”) conducted a narcotics investigation in the Metairie Heights Apartment complex in Metairie, LA. Based on their observations, officers stopped a vehicle in the parking lot. During that stop, several individuals located in the parking lot fled from law enforcement.  One of those individuals was later identified as WILLIAMS. Investigators identified WILLIAMS as the front-seat passenger of a Dodge Charger that was also located in the parking lot of the apartment complex. Officers obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and during the subsequent search, located a firearm and narcotics, as well as documentation linked to WILLIAMS. Additionally, on October 1, 2022, officers observed WILLIAMS in possession of two firearms outside of a residence in the 3600 block of Clio Street in New Orleans.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the New Orleans Police Department. The case  is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.

A Pennsylvania man pleaded guilty today to his role in a scheme to illegally smuggle Honduran nationals into the United States and distribute cocaine in the United States.

According to court documents, Carl Allison, 47, of Pittsburgh, conspired with at least seven others to bring Honduran nationals and cocaine from Honduras to the United States. In February 2022, Allison and others attempted to illegally bring 23 Honduran migrants and at least 24 kilograms of cocaine from Utila, Honduras, to Cocodrie, Louisiana, aboard the M/V Pop, a vessel co-owned by Allison. The migrants each paid up to $20,000 to Allison or his co-conspirators to be smuggled into the United States. At some point during a voyage in February 2022, the M/V Pop had engine trouble in the Gulf of Mexico. Allison and others chartered a boat to bring fuel to the disabled vessel so that it could complete its journey to the United States. Before the chartered boat reached the disabled vessel, the U.S. Coast Guard interdicted the vessel approximately 95 miles off the coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana, and towed it to shore.

For approximately three years, Allison participated in the scheme to bring Honduran migrants from Honduras to the United States via vessels such as the M/V Pop. Allison and his co-conspirators smuggled at least 15 migrants into the United States on each voyage. Once the migrants reached the United States, Allison and his co-conspirators placed them in factories and other businesses knowing that the migrants lacked authorization to enter, remain, or work in the United States. 

Allison pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for financial gain and conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. He is scheduled to be sentenced on March 28, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Three co-conspirators, all Honduran nationals, pleaded guilty earlier this year for their roles in the scheme. Darrel Martinez, 41, and Josue Flores-Villeda, 36, pleaded guilty to the same charges as Allison. Lenord Cooper, 40, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to aid and assist aliens to enter the United States unlawfully and attempting to bring aliens to the United States for commercial advantage and private financial gain.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans Field Office made the announcement.

HSI Houma, Louisiana, investigated the case, with assistance from HSI Pittsburgh, HSI Atlanta, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation. The U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) Air and Marine Operations, Louisiana State Police, Pennsylvania State Police, North Huntington Township Police, and Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office also provided valuable assistance.

The investigation is being conducted under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). Attorney General Merrick B. Garland created JTFA in June 2021 in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security to strengthen the Justice Department’s efforts to combat the rise in prolific and dangerous smuggling emanating from Central America and impacting our border communities. JTFA is comprised of detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border. Dedicated support is also provided by numerous components of the Criminal Division that are part of JTFA, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance and Training; Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section; Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section; Office of Enforcement Operations; Office of International Affairs; and Violent Crime and Racketeering Section. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, the FBI, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in over 260 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of human smuggling; over 170 convictions; significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets. 

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

Deputy Chief Rami Badawy and Trial Attorney Kate Wagner of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carter Guice and Ben Myers for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KELVIN WARREN, age 30, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, pled guilty on Thursday November 30, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Barry Ashe to possession with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine and over 40 grams of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(A).  He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to a maximum sentence of life.  He also faces a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least 5 years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.  The sentencing will be held on March 14, 2024.

According to court documents, on January 27, 2022, WARREN was in a vehicle that was stopped by police.  During a subsequent search of the vehicle, police located a bag containing approximately 1.7 pounds of methamphetamine, 5.8 ounces of fentanyl, a scale, and other drug paraphernalia on the front passenger floorboard near WARREN’s feet. 

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ERNEST X. TAYLOR, JR., of Laplace, LA, age 38, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion to two counts of making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

On March 27, 2020, The CARES Act became effective and established several new temporary programs and expanded others to address the COVID-19 pandemic. Among these programs, the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) authorized forgivable loans backed by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) to small businesses to retain workers, maintain payroll, and make mortgage interest payments, lease payments, and utility payments. The PPP allows the interest and principal on the PPP loan to be forgiven if the business spends the loan proceeds on these expense items within a designated period of time after receiving the proceeds and uses at least a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses. 

According to the charging documents, TAYLOR made false statements to an approved lender on or about March 2, 2021, to fraudulently obtain a PPP loan. TAYLOR falsely claimed in his PPP application that he had not been convicted of any felony involving “fraud, bribery, embezzlement, or a false statement in a loan application or an application for federal financial assistance” within the last 5 years. In truth, TAYLOR pleaded guilty on July 15, 2016, in the Eastern District of Virginia, criminal matter no. 16-118, to conspiracy to commit federal student loan fraud in a stolen identity mail fraud scheme.  TAYLOR thereafter received approximately $18,500 based upon the misrepresentations.  TAYLOR then made the same false statements to an approved lender on or about April 21, 2021, when he applied for a second draw PPP loan. TAYLOR received approximately $18,500 for the second loan.

Sentencing will occur on March 26, 2024.  TAYLOR faces up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each false statements count.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JASHA BANKS, a/k/a “Chocolate,” age 39, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on November 30, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan to 120 months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to a three-count indictment. Judge Morgan ordered that BANKS be placed on supervised release for three (3) years and pay a mandatory $300 special assessment fee.

Count 1 charged BANKS with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) and Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(a)(8).  Count 2 charged BANKS with possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, U.S.C., §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C).  Count 3 charged BANKS with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

According to court records, on August 2, 2022, a New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officer attempted to make a lawful stop of a white Chrysler 300 driven by BANKS.  However, BANKS fled from the officer before being apprehended.  After obtaining a search warrant for BANKS’s vehicle, NOPD officers searched the car and located $31,478 in cash, 12 individually wrapped baggies containing a blue rock-like substance (46.7 grams) identified as fentanyl, a black Glock Model 23, .40 caliber handgun containing 14 live rounds, and various other items.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRANDON MARTINEZ, a/k/a “RABBIT,” a resident of Metairie, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to forty-eight (48) months incarceration after previously pleading guilty to use of a communication facility to facilitate felony drug trafficking, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 843(b).  Judge Fallon ordered that MARTINEZ be placed on supervised release for three (3) years following release from prison. MARTINEZ was also ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court records, prior to March 2, 2021, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco,, Firearms and Explosives ("ATF") learned that a motorcycle in New Orleans, might be harboring drug sellers. ATF used confidential informant ("CI") to investigate whether drug sales were indeed occurring.

On March 2, 2021, the CI traveled to the shop and met with MARTINEZ.  The CI told MARTINEZ that he wanted to buy methamphetamine.   MARTINEZ then used a cellphone to set up a meeting between the CI and a co-defendant in this case, who sold methamphetamine. All of the co-defendants involved in this case previously plead guilty to selling and attempting to sell over 50 grams of methamphetamine, in addition to gun charges. 

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit .

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CARLSEL ALEXANDER, age 27, a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced on November 30, 2023 by United States District Judge Susie Morgan, for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

The indictment alleged that ALEXANDER was a convicted felon in possession of a FN Model 509, 9-millimeter semiautomatic handgun.

ALEXANDER was sentenced to thirty-three (33) months imprisonment followed by three (3) years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – On November 29, 2023, United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced JORGE ISAAC GONZALEZ-MEDINA, age 32, of Houston, to the mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years in federal prison, to be followed by 5 years of supervised release, for violating the Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

GONZALEZ-MEDINA was also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to court records, GONZALEZ-MEDINA admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).  GONZALEZ-MEDINA further admitted to being stopped in a vehicle with three kilograms of fentanyl concealed in the rear axle. 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that TIMOTHY MCMILLAN, JR., age 43, of New Orleans, was indicted on November 30, 2023 for Theft of Mail by a Postal Service employee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709.

According to the indictment, on October 11, 2023, MCMILLAN stole and removed money from a letter entrusted to him, while performing his assigned duties as an employee of the United States Postal Service.

If convicted, MCMILLAN faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that JOSEPH METZLER, III, age 44, of Gretna, was indicted on November 30, 2023 for possession of a silencer that was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

According to the indictment, on May 9, 2023, METZLER possessed a silencer that was not registered to him, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 5861(d).

If convicted, METZLER faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $10,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NORMAN ANDREWS, age 23, a resident of New Orleans,  pleaded guilty on November 28, 2023 before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to possession of a car stolen from the Norfolk Southern Automotive Distribution Facility, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 659; possession with intent to distribute tapentadol and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D); and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).

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

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

For possessing the stolen car, ANDREWS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. For possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and a minimum of three years of supervised release for possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances. For possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, ANDREWS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Today, United States District Judge Carl Barbier sentenced JUAN CAZES to 216 months imprisonment for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

CAZES was indicted on November 4, 2021 for possessing with intent to distribute approximately two (2) pounds or 909 grams of crystal methamphetamine. According to court documents, CAZES planned to sell the crystal methamphetamine to a confidential source. Following completion of his prison term, CAZES will face five years of supervised release. He is also required to pay a $200 mandatory special assessment fee per count.

U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On November 29, 2023, U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced DAVON EUGENE to 57 months in the Bureau of Prisons for possession of a machine gun and being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

EUGENE was indicted on January 22, 2021 for possessing a machinegun, a Glock Model 26, 9 mm handgun, bearing serial number XPT053, equipped with a Glock auto-sear, while being a convicted felon.  EUGENE will serve 57 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RYAN MOREAU, age 30, a resident of Kenner, Louisiana, was sentenced on November 29, 2023 by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to time served, 1 year of supervised release, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to misprision of a felony, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 4, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on November 19, 2020, a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Deputy learned than an individual was traveling eastbound on Interstate 10 after having purchased narcotics from his source of supply. Agents established surveillance along Interstate 10 and conducted a traffic stop of the truck. As the agents approached the truck, the front seat passenger gave a bag containing several ounces of methamphetamine to MOREAU. MOREAU, who was seated in the back seat, put the bag into a container of bleach that was also located on the back seat. As one of the agents approached, he saw a torn plastic bag with methamphetamine next to MOREAU. MOREAU admitted placing the methamphetamine in the container of bleach to avoid detection by law enforcement. 

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – VINH NGUYEN, age 39, of Gretna,  pled guilty on November 29, 2023 to one (1) count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and 846, and eight (8) counts of interstate travel in aid of racketeering, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1952(a)(3), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, in July 2019, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office Agents learned that NGUYEN, and others, participated in a drug and money trafficking network that spanned from California to Louisiana.  Text messages confirmed that NGUYEN worked with a supplier in California, who negotiated the cost and strains of marijuana with growers in San Francisco for NGUYEN.  NGUYEN paid for the marijuana by having other co-conspirators fly the cash to the supplier in San Francisco.  Another co-conspirator owned a shipping company that shipped the marijuana from San Francisco to a warehouse in Kenner.  Yet another co-conspirator would pick up the marijuana shipments from the Kenner warehouse and deliver them to various unknown locations in the New Orleans area and other cities throughout the country. 

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

This case was investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – CLARENCE “BILLY” BURKETTE, age 55, a resident of Slaughter, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on November 9, 2023, to wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to his guilty plea, BURKETTE admitted to defrauding the Town of Pearl River in connection with the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) Public Assistance Program. This program provides grants for state, territorial, tribal, and local governments, and certain types of non-profits, and is administered by the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness (GOHSEP). BURKETTE, who contracted to provide disaster assistance services to the Town of Pearl River, misrepresented, among other things, the amount of public assistance grant funds available to the Town of Pearl River. BURKETTE further misrepresented that his own fees would be reimbursed by FEMA. The Town of Pearl River paid BURKETTE $185,200 for services related to the Disaster Assistance Agreement that he falsely claimed to have provided.

BURKETTE faces a maximum sentence of thirty years in prison. After imprisonment, he faces up to five years of supervised release, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Pursuant to the plea agreement, BURKETTE will also owe the Town of Pearl $598,196.25 in restitution. 

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TORIN JENKINS, age 29, of New Orleans, pled guilty on November 28, 2023 to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).  Sentencing is set for March 12, 2024.

On December 3, 2021, NOPD officers arrested JENKINS based on open state warrants.  After initially failing to cooperate with officers, JENKINS was seen throwing an object of the window of his residence.  After JENKINS eventually surrendered, officers discovered the object was a Glock Model 36, .45 caliber firearm.  JENKINS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that a four-count indictment was unsealed today charging DOMINICK ANTHONY VALOTTA (a/k/a joncimpo#8015), age 38, a resident of New Orleans, with two counts of sexual exploitation of children, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a) (Counts 1-2) and two counts of transfer of obscene matter to a minor, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1470 (Counts 3-4).  A federal grand jury returned the indictment under seal on November 16, 2023.

According to the indictment, at various dates in late 2022 and early 2023, VALOTTA coerced a minor female born in August 2007, who was a resident of North Carolina (Victim 1), and a minor female born in July 2008, who was a resident of Ohio (Victim 2), to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of that conduct.  Further, on at least two dates in late 2022, VALOTTA transferred obscene matter to a minor female born in March 2008, who was a resident of North Carolina (Victim 3).

As to each of Counts 1 and 2, VALOTTA faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of fifteen (15) years and a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty (30) years.  He also faces, for each of Counts 1 and 2, a minimum of five (5) years and a maximum of a lifetime of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  As to each of Counts 3 and 4, VALOTTA faces a maximum term of ten years in prison, as well as up to three (3) years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  He may also be required to register as a sex offender.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BASHIR SCHOFIELD, age 24, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to a bill of information charging him with wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, for his role in preparing and filing false applications for loans related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).  

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

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

BASHIR SCHOFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  Sentencing before Judge Guidry is scheduled for March 5 2024.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS - CYNTHIA CARONNA, a resident of Jefferson Parish, was sentenced on November 28, 2023, for conspiring with her co-defendant, Frank LaBruzzo, and with a resident of the United Kingdom, to defraud a business that was seeking to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry sentenced CARONNA to five years’ probation, six months of home detention, and $1,012,500 in restitution.

CARONNA and the UK resident formed a business venture to offer the sale of PPE, and selected LaBruzzo to serve as the venture’s escrow agent. LaBruzzo (an attorney employed as an investigator with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office) was presented to would-be buyers of PPE, as a trustworthy escrow agent who would safeguard the buyer’s purchase funds in an escrow account until the PPE was satisfactorily delivered.

According to court records, the conspirators agreed that LaBruzzo would disburse the would-be buyer’s funds despite the would-be buyers having neither received PPE nor consented to the disbursements. The conspirators also agreed that each would receive portions of the would-be buyer’s funds without the would-be buyers’ knowledge or consent.

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

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at

866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at:

https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form

This case was being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.