Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced on Tuesday, September 12, 2023 that KEILEN HAWKINS, age 25, pled guilty to a one-count indictment for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). HAWKINS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. Sentencing in this case is set for December 20, 2023.

On February 12, 2023, members of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force investigated complaints made in the NOPD 5th District about ongoing illegal narcotics distribution in the area. As officers conducted surveillance, they observed what was believed to be a hand-to-hand narcotics transaction. While officers continued their investigation, HAWKINS arrived on the scene. Officers detained HAWKINS for safety purposes while they conducted their investigation.  Eventually, HAWKINS advised that he was in possession of a firearm. Officers recovered a Glock Model 19, nine-millimeter semi-automatic pistol, bearing serial number BVCS826, from HAWKINS’s waistband. Officers learned that HAWKINS had prior felony convictions punishable by a term of imprisonment in excess of one year, which made his firearm possession illegal under federal law. Namely, HAWKINS had been convicted most recently on August 18, 2022, in the Criminal District Court for the Parish of Orleans, Case Number 552-193 “J,” for being a felon in possession of a firearm and illegal possession of a stolen firearm, in violation of LA-R.S. 14:95.1 and LA-R.S. 14:69.1.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KENDALL THEARD, age 26, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced on October 6, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to time served, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

On July 29, 2021, New Orleans Police Officers stopped a vehicle containing three individuals, including THEARD.  During this stop, THEARD fled the vehicle but was later apprehended by officers.  Upon a search of the vehicle, officers discovered illegal drugs and weapons, including a machine gun.

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, the Louisiana State Police, and the New Orleans Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit .

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ROBERT LEE ALLEN, age 35, a resident of Houma Louisiana, was charged today in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

Count 1 of the indictment alleges that ALLEN possessed with the intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 100 grams or more of heroin on March 20, 2023, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). For this offense, he faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of five years, up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Houma Police Department, Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOHN CRAWFORD, age 39, a New Orleans resident, pleaded guilty on September 6, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to a superseding bill of information charging him with conspiracy to distribute heroin, 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, the FBI New Orleans Gang Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department started investigating CRAWFORD for his involvement in a drug distribution operation in September 2020.  The investigation involved numerous controlled purchases of narcotics from CRAWFORD and DONALD MYLES, a/k/a “D-Ray.” The investigation revealed that CRAWFORD conspired with MYLES, KEVIN JOHNSON, CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON, ERNEST GREEN, and others known and unknown, to distribute heroin and cocaine.

CRAWFORD faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

The U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation New Orleans Gang Task Force, with the assistance of the New Orleans Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, led the investigation.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – EMANUEL ROSS, age 24, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on September 6, 2023 before United States District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle to Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Fentanyl in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) and Possession of a Machinegun in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

The Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Fentanyl charge carries a term of imprisonment of not more than 20 years, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years supervised release. The Possession of a Machinegun charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Each offense also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

Judge Lemelle ordered a pre-sentence report and scheduled sentencing for December 13, 2023.  ROSS will remain detained without bond.

Court documents reveal that the Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crime Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department began an investigation of ROSS in mid-2022 and discovered an online video of him firing a pistol that had been converted into a machine gun through the use of a device known as a “switch.”  A search warrant of ROSS’s home was executed  on January 27, 2023, and law enforcement officials found 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.

The case was investigated by 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 is assigned the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEATON MANGHANE, age 24, a resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance to possessing a machinegun in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2).

According to court documents, MANGHANE was carrying a loaded handgun equipped with a Glock auto-sear in his pocket while walking on Bourbon Street just after 2:00 a.m. on February 21, 2023, Mardi Gras Day.  The auto-sear device turned the semi-automatic firearm into a fully-automatic machine gun.  After MANGHANE’s arrest, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives function tested the firearm and confirmed that it functioned as a machine gun.

MANGHANE faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

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

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

David Guidry III, of Independence, Louisiana, was sentenced today to 12 months and one day in prison followed by three years supervised release, with the special condition that Guidry complete 30 hours of community service, for possession of animals in an animal fighting venture. U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo for the Eastern District of Louisiana imposed the sentence.

According to court documents, federal law enforcement – through an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation – initially discovered Guidry’s involvement in the dogfighting ring through court-authorized wiretaps investigating narcotics trafficking in the Eastern and Middle Districts of Louisiana by other individuals. In the summer of 2017, law enforcement discovered Guidry hosted at least two dogfights at his residence in Independence, at which narcotics traffickers and fellow dogfighters fought dogs and gambled on the fights.

In October 2017, federal law enforcement executed a search warrant on Guidry’s residence and found a dogfighting pit surrounded by discarded beverage containers, seven pitbulls restrained using heave chains, a device to pry open the jaws of a dog involved in a dogfight and veterinary equipment. Federal law enforcement seized the dogs and transported them to a facility in North Carolina for medical care and rehabilitation.

To date, six other defendants have been convicted for their participation in the interstate dogfighting ring. Five of the defendants have already been sentenced for their dogfighting convictions:

• Eric “EZ” Williams, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana: 60 months in prison;
• Corey Brown, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana: 50 months in prison;
• Clay Turner, of Loranger, Louisiana: 36 months in prison;
• Dangelo Dontae Cornish, of Greensburg, Louisiana: 16 months in prison; and
• Aquintas Kantrell Singleton, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana: 12 months and one day months in prison.

Antonio Damon Atkins, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to dogfighting charges in July and is awaiting sentencing.

Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) and U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The FBI and U.S. Department of Agriculture investigated the case.

Trial Attorney Matthew D. Evans of ENRD's Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittany Reed for the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

NEW ORLEANS – On September 6, 2023, United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon sentenced ASHTON J. RYAN, JR., age 75, of Kenner, Louisiana, to a term of imprisonment of 170 months following RYAN’s convictions for bank fraud and making false statements in bank records, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

In February 2023, following a five-week trial, a jury convicted Ryan on all 43 counts against him. The charges related to RYAN’s tenure as President, CEO, and Chairman of the Board at First NBC Bank (“Bank”), a now-defunct federally insured financial institution with its main branch in New Orleans, Louisiana. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, RYAN and others conspired to defraud the Bank through a variety of schemes, including by disguising the true financial status of certain borrowers and their troubled loans, and concealing the true financial condition of the Bank from the Bank’s Board, external auditors, and federal examiners. As RYAN’s fraud grew, it included several other bank employees and businesspeople from around the Gulf South. Several of the borrowers who conspired with RYAN, used First NBC money to pay RYAN individually or fund RYAN’s own businesses. Using Bank money this way helped RYAN conceal  his  use of such money for his own benefit.

When the Bank’s Board, external auditors, and FDIC examiners asked about loans to these borrowers, RYAN and his fellow fraudsters lied about the borrowers and their loans, hiding the truth about the deadbeat borrowers’ inability to pay their debts without receiving new loans. As a result, the balance on the borrowers’ fraudulent loans continued to grow, resulting, ultimately, in the failure of the Bank  in April 2017. This failure caused approximately $1 billion in loss to the FDIC and the loss of approximately 500 jobs. 

Judge Fallon sentenced RYAN to a term of imprisonment of 170 months as to each of the 43 counts of conviction to run concurrently, to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release. RYAN was ordered to pay restitution totaling over $214 million to the FDIC. Judge Fallon also ordered RYAN to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 per count.

“Ashton Ryan’s years-long deceit caused at the time, one the biggest bank failure in America in over a decade,” said United States Attorney Duane A. Evans, “and with this sentence, he rightfully takes his place as one of the most notorious white-collar criminals in our district’s history. Ryan’s intelligence and charisma were outmatched by his hubris and vanity. Ryan and his accomplices spent years hiding their tracks, by using sophisticated means, all to maintain their house of cards.  But this office, along with our federal law enforcement partners, doggedly combed through the wreckage of what was First NBC to uncover the inner - workings of this complex fraud and its prime architect, RYAN. I am proud of this entire team’s work in identifying RYAN as the central figure in this years-long scheme and bringing him to justice.”

“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that individuals who engage in fraudulent schemes that impact the security of financial institutions will be held accountable. This should be a deterrent to others who would attempt to manipulate the nation's banking system,” said Douglas A. Williams, Jr., FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge.  “We thank our partners at the United States Attorney’s Office Eastern District, the FDIC Office of Inspector General and the Federal Reserve Board, Office of Inspector General.”

“Today’s sentencing represents the hard work of many prosecutors, agents, analysts, and other staff in investigating and prosecuting those who defraud financial institutions, specifically individuals entrusted to oversee the operations of FNBC. The FDIC-OIG thanks the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana as well as the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System for their dedication and effort in helping to bring Mr. Ryan to justice, ”said Anand Ramlall, Special Agent in Charge, Dallas Region, Office of Inspector General for the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation. 

“Today’s sentencing of Ashton Ryan is a warning to bank executives that if you commit fraud and deceive bank regulators you will pay a price for your actions,” said Brian Tucker, Special Agent in Charge, Eastern Region, Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “We commend the hard work and dedication of all those involved in this case that ultimately led to today’s result. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who undermine the safety and soundness of our banking institutions.”

The Assistant United States Attorneys who handled the trial were Senior Litigation Counsel Matthew R. Payne, Nicholas D. Moses of the Financial Crimes Unit, and J. Ryan McLaren of the Appellate Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TYREN TYRONE SHENALL (“SHENALL”), age 19, pleaded guilty on August 31, 2023 to one count of for theft or receipt of stolen mail matter, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708.

According to court documents, on November 15, 2022, SHENALL along with his co-conspirators Eric Williams and Kelan Gennings, stole U.S. Mail from post office mailboxes located at the Covington Post Office using a postal arrow key to access said mailbox.  At sentencing, which was scheduled by Judge Eldon Fallon for November 30, 2023, SHENALL faces a maximum prison term of five years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TATUM DARDAR, 26, from Terrebonne Parish, was sentenced on August 31, 2023 to 33 months imprisonment, 2 years supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon, after pleading guilty to a two count superseding bill of information which charged him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with  intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C) and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, DARDAR took part in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine throughout Terrebonne Parish and surrounding areas for over a year.  Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration recovered telephone calls between DARDAR and a known conspirator where they discussed their narcotics trafficking.  Agents also arrested DARDAR after a traffic stop wherein a distributable amount of methamphetamine was located within the interior of his vehicle.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, and the Houma Police Department.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JEANNINE DUKES (“DUKES”), age 41, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged by a bill of information on August 30, 2023 for making a false oath in a bankruptcy matter in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 152(2), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  If convicted, DUKES faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571.  In addition, DUKES faces a term of supervised release of no less than three (3) years after her release from prison.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JEANNINE DUKES (“DUKES”), age 41, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged by a bill of information on August 30, 2023 for making a false oath in a bankruptcy matter in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 152(2), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  If convicted, DUKES faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment and/or a fine of up to $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571.  In addition, DUKES faces a term of supervised release of no less than three (3) years after her release from prison.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – On August 31, 2023, United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced SEAN MARTIN, age 56, and GENE JACKSON, age 53, both of New Orleans, for violations of the Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records, MARTIN admitted to jointly possessing with the intent to distribute over a kilogram of heroin, over 400 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(C).  JACKSON admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute approximately two ounces of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

Judge Lemelle sentenced MARTIN to 140 months imprisonment to be followed by a five-year term of supervised release.  Judge Lemelle sentenced JACKSON to time served with three years of supervised release.  Judge Lemelle also ordered MARTIN and JACKSON to pay a mandatory special assessment of $100.

This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On August 29, 2023, United States District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced MORRIS SUMMERS, age 33, a resident of New Orleans, to 30 months in the Bureau of Prisons following his guilty plea for  being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court records and statements made in court, SUMMERS was convicted several years ago in another federal case before Judge Morgan of conspiring to distribute crack and conspiring to possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.  That case involved a violent gang that referred to itself as the “Ride or Die Gang”.  In this case, SUMMERS admitted to being in the same area of the 8th Ward where “Ride or Die” had previously operated, while in possession of a Springfield Armory, Hellcat, 9 milli-meter caliber semi-automatic pistol.  SUMMERS acknowledged his prior federal conviction as part of this guilty plea.

Judge Morgan also sentenced SUMMERS to serve three years of supervised release upon his release from imprisonment and ordered him to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation , the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TYRONE SMOTHERS, age 41, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged by a Federal Grand Jury on August 4, 2023, in a previously sealed three-count indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control and Federal Controlled Substances Acts.  The court unsealed the matter on September 1, 2023.  Specifically, he is charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, SMOTHERS was previously convicted of felony offenses in Orleans Parish. Due to his criminal history, he is prohibited from having a firearm. He is now charged with possessing multiple firearms on May 17, 2023.  He is further alleged to have possessed fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana with the intent to distribute and possessed the firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking offense.

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

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS - United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TYRONE SMOTHERS, age 41, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged by a Federal Grand Jury on August 4, 2023, in a previously sealed three-count indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control and Federal Controlled Substances Acts.  The court unsealed the matter on September 1, 2023.  Specifically, he is charged with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court documents, SMOTHERS was previously convicted of felony offenses in Orleans Parish. Due to his criminal history, he is prohibited from having a firearm. He is now charged with possessing multiple firearms on May 17, 2023.  He is further alleged to have possessed fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana with the intent to distribute and possessed the firearms in furtherance of that drug trafficking offense.

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

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KAMILA HORAKOVA DUDLEY (“DUDLEY”), age 42, of Silver Spring, Maryland, was indicted on August 17, 2023. 

As charged in the indictment, DUDLEY defrauded the United States Navy by the submission of fraudulent invoices for services allegedly provided at Marine Forces Reserve (MARFORRES) in New Orleans, Louisiana.  DUDLEY was charged with one (1) count of Wire Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.  If convicted, DUDLEY faces a maximum penalty of  twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code , Section 3571, up to three (3) years of supervised release , restitution to the victim, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DAVID SCOTT, age 19, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on August 24, 2023 in a previously sealed two-count indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  Count 1 charged SCOTT with possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, pursuant to Title 21 United States Code Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).  Count 2 charged SCOTT with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, pursuant to Title 18 United States Code Section 924(c).

If convicted of Count 1, SCOTT faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.  If convicted of Count 2, SCOTT faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, up to five 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 and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CHRISTIAN BICKHAM, age 59, of Slidell, pleaded guilty on August 31, 2023 before the Honorable Sarah S. Vance to charges of violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the court records, through the investigation, BICKHAM was captured discussing the purchase of two kilograms of cocaine.  Federal agents observed BICKHAM arrive at a house in New Orleans to pick up the drugs.  A few days later, agents stopped BICKHAM with $60,000 in cash, which he was going to use to pay for the two kilograms he had gotten earlier. 

Sentencing is scheduled for December 6, 2023.  BICKHAM faces a term of imprisonment of at least five years up to forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

This case was investigated by Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 29, 2023, that CARLSEL ALEXANDER, age 28, a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to a one-count indictment, charging him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

ALEXANDER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of up to 15 years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release up to 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

According to court records, on February 21, 2023, New Orleans Police Department arrested ALEXANDER for being in possession of a stolen FN Model 509, nine-millimeter firearm on a Mardi Gras parade route.  ALEXANDER is a convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

The Honorable Susie Morgan, United States District Court Judge, will sentence ALEXANDER on November 30, 2023.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TERRY BAHAM, JR., age 35, a resident of St. Bernard Parish, was charged on August 24, 2023, in a two-count indictment  with possession with intent to distribute forty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and quantities of mixtures and substances containing detectable amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D), as well as  possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

If convicted of the drug count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  If convicted of the firearm count, BAHAM faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. BAHAM also faces payment of a mandatory $100 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.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – RENE CLEMENT (“CLEMENT”), age 76, of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced on August 25, 2023  in United States District Court for failing to account for and pay federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (“FICA”) taxes, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7202, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, CLEMENT owned a company named Vinyl Products, LLC.  Between 2014 and 2018, CLEMENT withheld taxes from employees of Vinyl Products but kept the money instead of paying it to the IRS.  In total, CLEMENT failed to pay approximately $750,368.68 in taxes for Vinyl Products. 

U.S. District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced CLEMENT to four years of probation, during which time he must complete seventy-five hours of unpaid community service.  CLEMENT was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $28,809.73.  Judge Lemelle also imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would  like to acknowledge the work of the Internal Revenue Service on this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS - JOSHUA BARNES (“BARNES”), age 31, and a resident of New Orleans was sentenced on August 22, 2023 by Judge Susie Morgan to time served, to be followed by three years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee for failing to register as a sex offender under the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, BARNES , who was convicted of a sex offense in Texas, failed to register as a sex offender with the State of Louisiana after he established residence in this state.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LA – REYNALDO DOMINICK, age 31, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 17, 2023, before United States District  Judge Carl L. Barbier to a four-count superseding bill of information charging him in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine-base (“crack”) and possession with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C). DOMINICK was charged in Counts 2 and 4 with being a Felon in Possession of Firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). Lastly, in Count 3, DOMINICK was charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of N-phenyl-N-[1-(2-phenylethyl)-4-piperidinyl] propanamide (fentanyl) in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

According to court documents, DOMINICK was previously convicted of several felony convictions out of Orleans Parish and Jefferson Parish. On December 25, 2020, DOMINICK fled from Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies during a traffic stop. After DOMINICK crashed his vehicle and was apprehended, multiple small baggies of cocaine-base and cocaine were found in DOMINICK’s pants, and two firearms were recovered from DOMINICK’s vehicle. On August 12, 2021, DOMINICK was again arrested at his home and agents located two stolen firearms and fentanyl in a bag that DOMINICK threw on top of his carport roof. Agents also located DOMINICK’s cellphone that contained several messages involving narcotics trafficking activity. In pleading guilty, DOMINICK has acknowledged he possessed fentanyl, cocaine-base, and cocaine with intent to distribute and possessed firearms to further his drug trafficking. DOMINICK is also prohibited from possessing firearms due to his criminal history.

DOMINICK is scheduled to be sentenced on December 7, 2023. As to Counts 1 and 3, DOMINICK faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release.  As to Counts 2 and 4, DOMINICK faces up to ten (10) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release.  As to each count, DOMINICK faces payment of a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that CURTIS WILLIAMSON JR., age 40, of Houma, LA, was indicted on August 10, 2023 on one (1) count of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Dangerous Substance in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A) and one (1) count of Possession of Firearms during a Drug Trafficking Offense in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A).  The indictment was previously sealed and was unsealed on August 23, 2023.

According to the indictment, following a complaint that WILLIAMSON JR. trafficked illegal narcotics, a search warrant was executed on WILLIAMSON JR.’s residence by Terrebonne Parish Sherriff’s Office after which multiple kilograms of methamphetamine and numerous firearms were discovered.

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

United States Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Terrebonne Parish Sherriff’s Office.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TREVON HARVEY, age 35, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, was charged on August 24, 2023 in a three-count indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

Count 1 of the indictment charges HARVEY with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and quantities of heroin and cocaine base (“crack”), in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C).  For this offense, he 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.

Count 2 charges HARVEY 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).  For this offense, he faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.

Count 3 charges HARVEY with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  For this offense, the defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment, up to life, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years supervised release.

For each of the counts of the indictment, the defendant faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

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

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Houma Police Department Narcotics Division.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that the NEW ORLEANS STEAMBOAT COMPANY (“NOSC”), plead guilty to a violation of the Clean Water Act (“CWA”), Title 33, United States Code, Section 1319 (c)(2)(A), in connection with a discharge of excess ballast material into the Industrial Canal in New Orleans in 2019. The maximum penalty for this violation is five years’ probation, up to a $50,000 fine or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571 and a mandatory $400 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, NOSC admitted to discharging, without the knowledge of the Board of Directors, a quantity of a substance into a navigable water of the United States. The discharge took place on or around February 12, 2019, in the Inner Harbor Navigational Canal (“IHNC”), more commonly known as the Industrial Canal.

Additionally, MATT DOW (“DOW”), an NOSC employee, plead guilty to a misdemeanor violation of the CWA, Title 33, United States Code, Section 1319 (c)(2)(A), punishable by up to one year in jail, up to a $100,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release and a $25 mandatory special assessment fee.

U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey conducted a sentencing hearing with the consent of the parties after the guilty pleas were entered. Following the hearing, Judge Zainey sentenced NOSC to a $50,000 fine, the maximum penalty for the violation, one year probation and a $400 special assessment fee. DOW was sentenced to one year probation, forty hours of community service and a $25 mandatory special assessment fee.

The case was investigated by the Environmental Protection Agency’s Criminal Investigation Division, and the Department of Transportation’s Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CHRISTOPHER JOHNSON, age 39, a New Orleans resident, pleaded guilty on August 23, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to a two-count superseding bill of information that  charged him with conspiracy to distribute 1 kilogram or more of heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846,  and possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, JOHNSON regularly received half-kilogram quantities of heroin through the mail from his source of supply in California.  JOHNSON then distributed the heroin in multiple ounce quantities to other co-conspirators.  On June 22, 2021, agents seized 485 grams of heroin that was mailed to JOHNSON and a co-conspirator.

For the conspiracy charge, JOHNSON faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment,a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  For the possession with intent to distribute heroin charge, JOHNSON faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of five years, up to forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000.000, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation  (New Orleans Gang Task Force), with the assistance of the New Orleans Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, led the investigation.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 18, 2023,  JAVAN ROBINSON a/k/a “Diddy,” age 59, and MICHELE COLEMAN, age 57, both of New Orleans, Louisiana, were charged in a seven-count indictment for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, distribution of cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C), possession with intent to distribute cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), and  841(b)(1)(C), possession of  firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i), and possession of firearms by a convicted felon in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2), and 924(e)(1).

After receiving information that both defendants were conducting narcotics transactions within Orleans Parish,  Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents and members of the New Orleans Gang Task Force (NOGTF) conducted surveillance, set up pole cameras, conducted controlled purchases, and executed search warrants on two residences associated with both defendants.  Agents located multiple firearms, cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, paraphernalia, and a large amount of money between both residences.

If convicted of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine, ROBINSON and COLEMAN each face a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and a minimum of three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted of the three distribution of cocaine charges, ROBINSON faces a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and a minimum of three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  If convicted of possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, ROBINSON and COLEMAN each face a minimum term of five (5) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release. If convicted of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, ROBINSON faces a minimum term of fifteen (15) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release. As to each of the charged counts, ROBINSON and COLEMAN, individually, face payment of 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 defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.  

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS - CYNTHIA CARONNA, a resident of Jefferson Parish, pleaded guilty on August 22, 2023, to a bill of information for conspiring with her co-defendant, Frank LaBruzzo, and with a resident of the United Kingdom to defraud a business seeking to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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 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.

U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry scheduled CARONNA’s sentencing for November 28, 2023. Conspiracy is punishable by up to five years imprisonment followed by up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

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

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.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSHUA BOGEN, age 32, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced on August 23, 2023 to 252 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  BOGEN previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), and assaulting a federal officer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(b).

According to court documents, on October 18, 2021, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents received information that BOGEN, a convicted felon, would be transporting approximately two pounds of crystal methamphetamine from Houma, Louisiana to a residence in New Orleans to conduct a drug deal.  Upon arriving at the residence, BOGEN got out of his vehicle carrying a large bag containing 1009.9 grams of pure methamphetamine and a Glock Model 26, Gen 4, nine-millimeter semi-automatic handgun, that had  a round in the chamber.  DEA agents then turned on their surveillance unit’s flashing blue lights and began to exit the vehicle.  Immediately after an agent opened their door, BOGEN brandished his handgun and pointed it directly at one of the agents.  Agents then moved to take cover at the rear of the unit and one shot was fired in BOGEN’s direction.  BOGEN, who was not wounded, then threw the handgun and the large bag of methamphetamine over the fence that lined the driveway of the residence and surrendered.

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

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – PEDRO VAZQUEZ, age 31, of California, pled guilty on August 15, 2023, before Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to a two-count superseding bill of information charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846, and possession with intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, VAZQUEZ and others known and unknown to the U.S. Attorney, conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute approximately 49.7 kilograms of methamphetamine.  In addition, VAZQUEZ drove to Metairie, Louisiana to conduct a narcotics transaction that consisted of approximately 100 pounds of methamphetamine.

VAZQUEZ is scheduled to be sentenced on December 7, 2023, and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least 5 years of supervised release per count as well as a mandatory $100 special assessment fee per count. 

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 Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – On August 15, 2023, former United States Army reservist DERRICK BRANCH pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. BRANCH stole $15,469.30 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for the performance of military funeral honors ceremonies that never happened. 

The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans.  At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of “Taps.”

By pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, BRANCH faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  BRANCH has agreed to pay restitution to the United States Army in the amount of $15,469.30.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.                                                      

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On August 17, 2023, KELAN PERRY GENNINGS,  (“GENNINGS”), age 22, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon  to serve five years probation, 150 hours of community service and pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee for theft or receipt of stolen mail matter, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1708 and unlawful possession of a postal key, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1704, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on November 15, 2022, GENNINGS along with his co-conspirators, stole U.S. Mail from a post office mailbox located at the Covington Post Office using a postal arrow key to access said mailbox.  GENNINGS then broke into the mailboxes to steal checks and other financial documents, which he later used to commit check fraud.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –ROMERO MORRIS, age 34, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was charged on August 18, 2023, in an eleven-count indictment with several violations of the Federal Gun Control and Federal Controlled Substances Acts, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the indictment, MORRIS distributed and possessessed with the intent to distribute, different drugs on  December 19, 2018, January 17, 2019, April 1, 2019, March 25, 2022, January 26, 2023, February 8, 2023, and February 14, 2023.  He also illegally possessed firearms as a convicted felon and, in furtherance of his drug trafficking crimes, on several of these dates. 

In Counts 1, 2, 3, 7, and 8 of the indictment, he is charged with the distribution of different drugs, including cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.  As to each of these counts, he will face a sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and not less than three years of supervised release.

In Counts 4 and 9,  he is charged with possession with the intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl, and quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine.  For the fentanyl, he will face a minimum sentence of 5 years and up to 40 years  in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000.000, and at least 4 years of supervised release.  For the cocaine and methamphetamine, he will face a sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and not less than three years of supervised release.

For Counts 5 and 10,  he is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm for which he  faces a sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, and not more than three years of supervised release.

For, Counts 6 and 11, he is charged with possession a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and faces a sentence of not less than 5 years and not more than life in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, and not more than five years of supervised release.  Furthermore, any sentence of imprisonment imposed must be served consecutively to any other sentence he will be serving.

Finally, as to each of the charged counts, MORRIS faces payment of a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document 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 was investigated by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Louisiana State Police,  the State of Louisiana Department of Probation and Parole, and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Department.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  MELVIN WALKER, age 35, a resident of Westwego, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District  Judge, Jay C. Zainey  to  37 months  in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  On May 11, 2023, WALKER pled guilty to a one-count indictment charging him with Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

According to court records, WALKER was standing outside of his residence when the occupants of a white SUV opened fire at him.  WALKER removed a nine-millimeter firearm from his waistband and fired back at the fleeing SUV.  WALKER sustained a gunshot wound during the gunfire exchange. 

Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the scene and collected fired casings from WALKER’s nine-millimeter firearm, as well as .223 rifle casings believed to have been discharged by the occupants of the white SUV.  WALKER’s residence was searched by deputies who located a bloody nine-millimeter magazine was found on WALKER’s living room couch.  The deputies also determined that the ammunition collected from the magazine was the same caliber and brand of ammunition discharged by the nine-millimeter that WALKER discharged. WALKER has two previous convictions for firearms-related offenses and is prohibited from possessing firearms.

Following his term of incarceration, WALKER will be placed on supervised release for 36 months.  The court also imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.  

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

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 17, 2023, BRANDON MARTINEZ, a/k/a “RABBIT,” age 24 of Metairie, pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the superseding bill of information for use of a communication facility to facilitate felony drug trafficking, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 843(b).

For Count 1, the maximum penalty includes 4 years of imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000, not more than 1 year of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to public records, prior to March 2, 2021, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”) was informed that a motorcycle shop located at 5926 Alost Street, New Orleans, Louisiana, was suspected of harboring individuals selling drugs. ATF utilized a confidential informant (“CI”) to approach the shop and investigate if drug sales were occurring. On March 2, 2021, the CI traveled to the shop and met with MARTINEZ. The CI stated he was there to purchase methamphetamine.  MARTINEZ utilized a cellphone to facilitate a meeting later that day between the CI and a co-defendant who sold methamphetamine.  Co-defendants in this case previously plead guilty to selling an 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. Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  VINCENT TURNER, age 39, a resident of Hammond, Louisiana, was sentenced by United States District Judge Susie Morgan to 60 months in federal prison for violating 18 U.S.C. 2261(b)(5), Interstate Domestic Violence, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  The sentence imposed will run concurrent with a sentence to be imposed in a Plaquemines Parish revocation proceeding.

On May 2, 2023, TURNER pled guilty to a three-count indictment charging him with violations of Assault and Interstate Domestic Violence. The remaining counts of the indictment were dismissed pursuant to a plea agreement between the government and TURNER.  Following his incarceration, TURNER will be placed on supervised release for 36 months.  The Court also imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. 

According to court records, TURNER physically assaulted his dating partner while aboard the Carnival cruise ship Valor, an American vessel.  The ship left from the Port of Orleans and traveled to Costa Maya, Mexico.  While aboard the cruise ship, TURNER and his dating partner engaged in a verbal altercation that turned physical when TURNER pushed his dating partner, causing her to fall to the floor.  TURNER continued to strike the victim with his hand and kick her with his foot, resulting in physical injuries to her. 

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – BRIA PETERS, age 38, formerly of New Orleans, LA and now residing in Houston, Texas, was charged on August 18, 2023 in a one-count bill of information with making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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

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

PETERS faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for the false statements count.  There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee due after conviction.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSHUA MACKEY, age 37, and DARON WILLIAMS, age 48, residents of Port Sulphur, Louisiana, were sentenced on August 17, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

MACKEY was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee. MACKEY previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and crack, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, as well as being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

WILLIAMS was sentenced to time served, which was approximately 20 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee. WILLIAMS previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, as well as possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).

According to court documents, a DEA wiretap investigation revealed that MACKEY and WILLIAMS were involved in a narcotics distribution conspiracy with several other co-conspirators between June 8, 2020, and June 5, 2021. As part of the conspiracy, MACKEY regularly distributed quantities of crack and cocaine and WILLIAMS frequently distributed quantities of methamphetamine. Additionally, DEA agents executed a federal search warrant at MACKEY’s residence that resulted in the seizure of a Francolin International Arms Company 

Model Citadel Boss-25, 12-gauge semi-automatic shotgun, as well as quantities of cocaine, crack, and methamphetamine.

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

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Plaquemines Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FERMIN RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA, age 25, a resident of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced today, to 51 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA previously pleaded guilty to a two-count indictment that charged him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, and 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).

According to court documents, on September 27, 2022, RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA traveled from Dallas, Texas to the Super 8 motel in Covington, Louisiana carrying approximately five kilograms of fentanyl. Based on information obtained from a confidential source, Homeland Security Investigations agents and St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies were waiting on RODRIGUEZ-ORTEGA when he arrived at the motel. Agents then searched his luggage and discovered five kilograms of fentanyl.

This case was investigated by United States Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ANTHONY MONREAL-FABELA, age 22, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 17, 2023, before Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, 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, MONREAL-FABELA was arrested on July 27, 2022, when he conspired with his co-defendant, Diogo Hernandez, to possess with intent to distribute twenty kilograms of cocaine that had been smuggled into the Port of New Orleans via a container ship.

MONREAL-FABELA faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

This case was investigated by the United States Homeland Security Investigations, United States Customs and Border Protection and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  SHAWN BREAUX, age 29, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance to 69 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty  to a  two-count indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

In Count 1 of the indictment, BREAUX is charged with illegally possessing firearms as a felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). Count 2 of the indictment charged BREAUX with being in possession of a machine gun in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(o) and 924(a)(2). 

On October 8, 2021, officers responded to a shooting in the 100 block of Carondelet Street and saw BREAUX fleeing the scene BREAUX was eventually detained in the French Quarter after driving the wrong way down Royal Street. Investigators located two firearms, one in BREAUX’s vehicle and another discarded as he fled from the officers. A Glock switch mechanism was attached to one of the firearms, making it into a fully automatic weapon.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JUSTIN HENRY, age 41, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on August 17, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to 100 months of imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, along with a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, for being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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 and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOHN SUTTON (“SUTTON”), a resident of Mandeville, Louisiana, pled guilty in federal court on August 17, 2023 before Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to one count of wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343 in connection with a scheme to defraud the Department of Veterans Affairs, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

SUTTON’s co-conspirators, James Thomas Sinyard, Jr., a/k/a Jay Sinyard, and Mary Gigi Sinyard, a/k/a Gigi Sinyard, were charged by bill of information on February 14, 2023. On May 18, 2023, Jay and Gigi Sinyard pled guilty to one count of wire fraud. (EDLA Case No. 23-30 “G”). Co-conspirator Marc Quiroz was charged by bill of information on April 11, 2023. On August 17, 2023, Quiroz pled guilty to one count of wire fraud. (EDLA Case No. 23-60 “G”).

According to the Bill of Information, SUTTON submitted fraudulent affidavits for home aid services provided when he knew that those services were not actually provided.  As part of the scheme to defraud, beginning in or around April 2013 and continuing until July 2018, SUTTON did knowingly devise and intend to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (Veterans Affairs) and to obtain money and property by submitting false affidavits and applications to Veterans Affairs on behalf of veterans and their spouses, claiming that VetAttend had provided home services to the veterans, when in fact, it had not. During the scheme to defraud, Veterans Affairs issued funds to over 300 veterans and/or their surviving spouses from which SUTTON fraudulently appropriated, without the knowledge of the veterans, totaling approximately $4,065,969.18.

SUTTON faces a possible maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. The Court set sentencing of JOHN SUTTON for November 9, 2023.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office praised the work of the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General.  The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh, of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  ELIAS MANUEL MURCIA-BONILLA, age 32, a native of Honduras, was charged yesterday in a one-count indictment with Illegal Reentry in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

MURCIA-BONILLA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 2 years, a term of supervised release up to 1 year, a fine of up to $100,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.   

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 Homeland Security Investigations, Enforcement and Removal Operations agents in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS –  MARC QUIROZ (“QUIROZ”),a resident of Covington, Louisiana, pled guilty in federal court on August 17, 2023 before Chief U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to one count of wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343 in connection with a scheme to defraud the Department of Veterans Affairs, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

QUIROZ’s co-conspirators, James Thomas Sinyard, Jr., a/k/a Jay Sinyard, and Mary Gigi Sinyard, a/k/a Gigi Sinyard, were charged by bill of information on February 14, 2023. On May 18, 2023, Jay and Gigi Sinyard pled guilty to one count of wire fraud. (EDLA Case No. 23-30 “G”).  Co-conspirator John Sutton was charged by bill of information on June 13, 2023. On August 17, 2023, Sutton pled guilty to one count of wire fraud. (EDLA Case No. 23-122 “M”).

According to the bill of information, QUIROZ submitted fraudulent affidavits for home aid services provided when he knew that those services were not actually provided.  As part of the scheme to defraud, beginning in or around April 2013 and continuing until July 2018, QUIROZ did knowingly devise and intend to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (Veterans Affairs) and to obtain money and property by submitting false affidavits and applications to Veterans Affairs on behalf of veterans and their spouses, claiming that VetAttend had provided home services to the veterans, when in fact, it had not. During the scheme to defraud, Veterans Affairs issued funds to over 300 veterans and/or their surviving spouses from which QUIROZ fraudulently appropriated, without the knowledge of the veterans, totaling approximately $4,065,969.18.

QUIROZ faces a possible maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. The Court set sentencing of MARC QUIROZ for November 30, 2023

The U.S. Attorney’s Office praised the work of the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General.  The prosecution of the case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Kathryn McHugh, of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that RAYCHAEL DEPLAND, age 34, of New Orleans, was sentenced today for Identity Theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028(a)(7).

According to court documents, DEPLAND, while working at University Medical Center in New Orleans as a patient access representative, sent personal information of UMC patients to Acia Gray.  Gray, along with others, used this information in a check cashing scheme at Wal-Mart stores, primarily in Texas. Gray and other members of this check cashing scheme were charged and convicted of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 1349 in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas. Gray received a sentence of fifty-seven (57) months imprisonment.

Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced DEPLAND to 4 years probation, ordered to perform 100 hours of unpaid community service, and required to pay a $100 special assessment fee.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the United States Department of Treasury, Inspector General for Tax Administration, in investigating this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  CRAIG L. LOVELACE, age 53, a resident of Destrehan, pled guilty to defrauding Medicare and Medicaid of approximately $11.4 million in medically unnecessary durable medical equipment (“DME”), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

The government filed a bill of information charging LOVELACE with healthcare fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1347. According to court documents, from approximately January 2016 through June 2022, LOVELACE, through his company Advanced Medical Equipment Inc., billed Medicare and Medicaid for durable medical equipment (“DME”) that was medically unnecessary. That included equipment for respiratory support and nutritional support, including ventilators, tracheostomy supplies, and feeding tubes. In reality, those items were medically unnecessary, not ordered, or not provided as represented.  In some instances, the patients had already died. LOVELACE billed Medicare and Medicaid approximately $11.4 million in connection with this scheme, and his company was reimbursed over $7.9 million. To cover up his scheme, LOVELACE directed the falsification of documents, including medical records, order forms, and supporting documentation, in response to Medicare audits and record requests. The falsification of documents included forging provider signatures, medical notes, and dates, as well as using tape, white-out, and scissors, to make it falsely appear that the audited DME was ordered and delivered.

LOVELACE faces up to ten years in prison. LOVELACE also faces up to three years of supervised release after release from prison, a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to LOVELACE or the gross loss to any victims, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo set the sentencing hearing for November 29, 2023.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the Louisiana Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. U.S. Department of Justice Trial Attorneys Kelly Walters and Samantha Stagias of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses, Health Care Coordinator for the Eastern District of Louisiana, are prosecuting the case.

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on August 15, 2023, U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced CORNEL MARTIN, SR. (“MARTIN”), age 63, of Thibodaux, Louisiana, to serve 12 months in prison, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release, for failing to account for and pay over federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (“FICA”) taxes, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7202.  Judge Morgan also ordered that MARTIN pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service (“IRS”) in the amount of $2,681,379.96, and imposed a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to court documents, MARTIN operated several businesses in Terrebonne Parish that provided temporary labor to shipyards and offshore oil rigs. MARTIN was the sole owner of each of the companies and controlled the companies’ finances. From 2012 to 2021, MARTIN’s various businesses withheld taxes from its employees’ paychecks, but MARTIN failed to pay over the withheld taxes to the IRS as required. All told, MARTIN’s willful failure to account for and pay trust fund and other taxes associated with his businesses between 2012 and 2021 resulted in a loss amount to the IRS between $1,500,000 and $3,500,000.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the work of the Internal Revenue Service on this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon S. Long of the Financial Crimes Unit.