Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS – LYNN SCHOFIELD, age 60, and BASHIR SCHOFIELD, age 23, residents of LaPlace, Louisiana, were federally charged on July 13, 2023 for  preparing and filing false loan applications  related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  LYNN SCHOFIELD was charged in a one-count bill of information with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1343.  BASHIR SCHOFIELD was charged in a one-count bill of information with wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343.

According to the bills of information, LYNN SCHOFIELD and BASHIR SCHOFIELD worked together with another, unnamed individual to submit applications to fraudulently obtain money from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster loans (EIDL).  Each defendant submitted at least one loan, and all applications falsely represented that the applicant had a sole proprietorship and generated substantial income from the business by falsely overinflating gross receipts.  They also misrepresented that the loan proceeds were for business purposes.  Instead, the defendants intended to use the money for personal purposes.  More specifically, the entities either did not exist or earned far less money than LYNN SCHOFIELD, BASHIR SCHOFIELD, and the unnamed individual represented. 

LYNN SCHOFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  BASHIR SCHOFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

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

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TREJON HOWARD, age 20, of New Orleans, and TIQUAN EVERSON, age 26, of Avondale, were sentenced on July 12, 2023 by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

HOWARD was sentenced to 330 months imprisonment, five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee. 

EVERSON was sentenced to 360 months imprisonment, five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee. 

According to court documents, HOWARD and EVERSON previously pled guilty to attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute quantities of marijuana, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.   

Co-defendant, CHRIS ROSS, age 22, of St. Bernard Parish, was sentenced on June 5, 2023 by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle.  ROSS was sentenced to 355 months imprisonment.  In addition, ROSS received five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, along with a $400 mandatory special assessment fee. 

According to court documents, ROSS previously pled guilty to attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute quantities of marijuana, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.   

This prosecution stems from a shootout that occurred at the Jung Hotel in New Orleans, on December 28, 2020.  HOWARD and EVERSON, along with four other co-defendants, entered the Jung Hotel and attempted to rob drug dealers (hotel occupants) of significant amounts of marijuana.  During the attempted robbery, a shootout ensued during which over 80 shots were  fired and three people wounded.  These events were documented by Jung Hotel security cameras footage that was introduced as evidence at the sentencing hearing for co-defendants DARIUS DANNEL and TERRELL MOORE.  

DARIUS DANNEL, age 28, and TERRELL MOORE, age 25, both of New Orleans, were sentenced on June 28, 2023 by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle.  DANNEL was sentenced to 360 months imprisonment, while MOORE received a 330-month sentence.  In addition, both defendants received five years of supervised release following imprisonment, along with a $400 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents, DANNEL and MOORE previously pled guilty to attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute quantities of marijuana, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Three of the marijuana distributors involved in the shootout, CLARENCE SANTIAGO, BRIAN JACOB, and MALIK FERNANDEZ, pled guilty to similar crimes before United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry.  On March 7, 2023, Judge Guidry sentenced SANTIAGO to 360 months in prison and on July 11, 2023, he sentenced FERNANDEZ to 350 months in prison.  BRIAN JACOB will be sentenced on October 31, 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 cases were investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crime Unit are in charge of the prosecutions.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On July 11, 2023, RICHARD LUDWIG II, age 74, of Independence pleaded guilty for dealing firearms without a license in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(a)(1)(A) and 924(a)(1)(D), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans .

LUDWIG faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000,  up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  He will be sentenced on October 17, 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.  This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – MARIO HERNANDEZ-MARIN, a/k/a “Jose Hernandez-Marin,” a/k/a “David Hernandez-Marin,” a/k/a “Jose G. Hernandez,” a/k/a “Daniel Enrique-Polanco,” a/k/a “David Hernandez-Enrique,” age 50, was sentenced on July 13, 2023 for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) on July 13, 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents , MARIO HERNANDEZ-MARIN (“HERNANDEZ-MARIN”) admitted reentering the United States after being previously deported on June 23, 2011.  HERNANDEZ-MARIN was sentenced by Judge Wendy B. Vitter to (3) three years of probation with eight (8) months home curfew with location monitoring.  He was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.

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

 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On July 12, 2023, United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced DAWAYNE BOUTAIN, age 29, a resident of Violet, to a statutory maximum of 120 months in prison for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

According to court records, BOUTAIN arrived at an apartment in Violet as St. Bernard Parish officers were about to execute a search warrant.  BOUTAIN was found in possession of a Ruger magazine with 10 live rounds.  He had previously been convicted of four separate felonies and was federally prohibited from possessing guns or ammunition.    

Judge Africk also ordered that BOUTAIN serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison and pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. 

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

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Bernard Parish Sherriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – DAMER SMITH, age 46, of Raceland, Louisiana, was sentenced on July 11, 2023 for Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A) and 924(c)(1)(A)(i), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on November 17, 2018, deputies with the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to SMITH’s residence after he threatened to kill his minor children.  When deputies arrived, SMITH opened the door of his residence and fired a shot into the yard.  Subsequently, SMITH surrendered, and deputies escorted the children from the residence safely.  Thereafter, deputies executed search warrants on the residence, locating three firearms, ammunition, and approximately 3,898 grams of prepackaged marijuana. 

U.S. District Court Judge Greg Guidry sentenced SMITH to 84 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.  SMITH was also ordered to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. 

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office in this investigation.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ZANDRA ELLIS, age 34, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today to transmitting threatening communications in interstate commerce in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, in June 2022, ZANDRA ELLIS submitted a request to a website to have a romantic rival killed.  The website was, in fact, a parody website complete with its own web-based intake form for would-be solicitors to fill out, in their own words, the who, what, when, where, and why for requested services.  The site boasts its own fictitious privacy statement known as HIPPA (Hitman Information Privacy & Protection Act of 1964) and is linked directly to the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Internet Crime Complaint Center (ic3.gov).  On July 5, 2022, ELLIS, communicated with an FBI undercover agent who was posing as a hitman.  In those text message exchanges, ELLIS confirmed the ongoing feud with a romantic rival, reiterated her request to have that person killed, and agreed to pay the “hitman” $1,000.  When ELLIS met the undercover agent on July 6, 2022, she provided a $100 down payment after which she was arrested.  At the time of her arrest, ELLIS possessed a loaded Ruger .380 pistol.

ELLIS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.  She will be sentenced on October 17, 2023.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – DERRICK ESTES, age 43, of New Orleans, was sentenced on July 11, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 360 months imprisonment, 4 years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans .  ESTES was previously found guilty as charged, after a trial by a jury, of all counts in a four-count superseding indictment.

The superseding indictment charged ESTES in Count 1 with possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl and cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).  Count 2 charged ESTES with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense in violation of Title 18, United Sates Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A). Count 3 charged ESTES with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).  Finally, Count 4 charged ESTES with possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and over 40 grams of fentanyl in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(B)(vi), and (b)(1)(C).

The FBI’s New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force worked with the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) during 2020-21 in Algiers due to a significant increase in shootings and homicides.  On January 17, 2021, NOPD responded to the shooting of ESTES in Algiers.   During their investigation, police located video footage of the shooting and saw ESTES exit his vehicle after the shooting,  remove several items from within and go to his residence. 

NOPD officers executed a search warrant at the residence and located several items linked to ESTES, including cocaine and fentanyl, drug selling paraphernalia, and three firearms,  including an AK- 47 rifle.  Investigators previously observed ESTES on a crime camera with a similar AK-47 rifle one month earlier.  After ESTES’s, subsequent arrest, at another residence,  NOPD searched that residence and his vehicle, locating a cocaine, over 40 grams of fentanyl, drug selling paraphernalia, and approximately $2800.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On July 12, 2023, ALVIE ROLLINS a/k/a ALVIN ROLLINS, age 26, plead guilty to a one-count indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  His sentencing is scheduled for October 18, 2023.

ROLLINS faces a maximum sentence of fifteen years imprisonment, a fine up of up to $250,000.00, up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. 

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

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 Attorneys Mike Trummel and Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On July 12, 2023, JUSTIN MORGAN, age 25, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to three counts of a seven-count superseding indictment for drug and weapons violations, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

In Count 1 of the superseding indictment, MORGAN was charged with possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(d). MORGAN faces a sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and a period of at least 3 years of supervised release.

In Count 2 , MORGAN is charged with possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). MORGAN faces a minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 5 years of supervised release.  Additionally, this sentence must run consecutive to all other sentences imposed.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CODY SHAUGHNESSY, age 38, pled guilty today before United States District Court Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to  three counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B) and one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

On each count, SHAUGHNESSY faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000 fine, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the Hammond Police Department, and the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TEREROI THORNTON, a resident of Baton Rouge, was sentenced on Julu 11, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to twenty-four (24) months incarceration, three (3) years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  THORNTON had previously pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm while under indictment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(n) and 924(a)(1)(D).

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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Louisiana State Police in this matter.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – DEDRA BRIGHT (“BRIGHT”), age 64, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was  sentenced on July 5, 2023 to payment of restitution and probation for theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, from November 2008 to November 2020, BRIGHT knowingly accessed and converted approximately $194,127.80 in Social Security Administration (“SSA”) and $1,200 in Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES Act”) funds.  The funds were intended for BRIGHT’s mother, who was a recipient of social security funds before she passed away in 2008.  BRIGHT continued withdrawing and spending SSA and CARES Act funds from her mother’s account after her 2008 death, until the SSA learned of the mother’s death and ceased the payments.

At sentencing, U.S. District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced BRIGHT to 5 years of probation, restitution in the amount of $194,327.80 to the SSA and $1,200 to the IRS, no fine, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, with this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Moses, Health Care Fraud Coordinator, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TEMIKA SANTEMORE, age 43, currently a resident of Houston, Texas, was charged July 7, 2023 in a two-count bill of information with making false statements and theft of government funds related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).

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

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

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

According to the charging documents, SANTEMORE made false statements to the SBA to fraudulently obtain pandemic-related relief loans funded by the federal government, including PPP funds.  As a result, SANTEMORE received approximately $13,540 in such pandemic-related relief loans.  SANTEMORE also applied for an EIDL from the SBA in July of 2021 and illegally received $5,000 for a dormant business that she owned.  

SANTEMORE 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.  She faces up to ten years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines, and up to three years of supervised release for the theft count.  There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count 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, the Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – JOSHUA PICOU, age 30, of Houma, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on July 6, 2023 to violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.  Specifically, he pleaded guilty to distributing a substance containing fentanyl and cocaine and possessing fentanyl, cocaine base (“crack”), and cocaine with the intent to distribute, all in violation of Title 21 United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C).  He further pleaded guilty to  possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).

According to court documents, PICOU distributed a substance containing fentanyl and cocaine on May 27, June 2, and June 22, 2021.  Later, on June 24, 2021, he  possessed  forty (40) grams or more of fentanyl, twenty-eight (28) grams or more of cocaine base, and a quantity of cocaine, with the intent to distribute those substances.  On that same date, he  possessed two firearms, a Glock Model 17 handgun and a Springfield Armory XDM-9.  PICOU  possessed those firearms while prohibited due to his prior criminal convictions.  These convictions include a felony possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance in Louisiana and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence in Louisiana.  

At sentencing, for distribution of fentanyl and cocaine as well as or possession with intent to distribute cocaine charges, PICOU faces a maximum of twenty (20) years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, and at least three (3) years of supervised release, as to each charged count.  For possession with intent to distribute fentanyl or cocaine base, he faces a minimum of five (5) years and a maximum of forty (40) years imprisonment, up to a $5,000,000.00 fine, and at least four (4) years of supervised release.  For possession of a firearm by a person convicted of a felony offense, he faces a maximum of ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three (3) years of supervised release.  As to each charged count in the indictment , he also faces payment  a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Homeland Securities Investigations and the Terrebonne Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On July 6, 2023, TERRANCE RICHARDS, age 38, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty to possessing ammunition while being a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on August 22, 2020, New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) officers were sent to the intersection of General Ogden and Olive Streets in New Orleans following a report of shots being fired.  Through further investigation, NOPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) identified RICHARDS as one of the shooters.  RICHARDS’s prior felony convictions for attempted distribution of cocaine (2010), possession of cocaine (2010), felon in possession of a firearm (2011), and distribution of cocaine (2012), prohibits his possession of a firearm. 

RICHARDS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. He also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  RICHARDS will be sentenced on October 26, 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.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On July 7, 2023, RYAN NEGROTTO, age 43 of New Orleans, pled guilty in federal court to all counts with which he was charged in a superseding indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

Count 1 charged NEGROTTO with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846.

Count 2 charged NEGROTTO with distribution and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 18 U.S.C § 2.  Count 3 charged NEGROTTO with distribution and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2. Count 4 charged NEGROTTO with distribution of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 18 U.S.C § 2.  

Count 5 and Count 7 charged NEGROTTO with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C § 924(c)(1)(A)(i). 

Count 6 charged NEGROTTO with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B). 

Finally, Count 8 charged NEGROTTO with using or maintaining a drug premises in violation of 21 U.S.C § 856(a)(1) and 18 U.S.C § 2.

As to Counts 1, 3, 4, and 6, NEGROTTO faces a minimum imprisonment term of 10 years up to a maximum term of life, a fine of up to $10 million, and at least 5 years of supervised release. 

As to Count 2, NEGROTTO faces a minimum imprisonment term of 5 years, up to a maximum  of 40 years, a fine of up to $5 million, and at least 4 years of supervised release.

As to Counts 5 and 7, NEGROTTO faces a minimum, term of imprisonment of 5 years, up to a maximum term of life, a fine up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release.

Finally, as to Count 8, NEGROTTO faces a  maximum  term of imprisonment of 20 years, a fine up to $500,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release.

As to each charged count, NEGROTTO faces payment of 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, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police.  Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit is handling the prosecution.

                                                            

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On Thursday, July 6, 2023, TERRANCE STEWART, age 32, a residence of Lafourche Parish, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison, four years of supervised release , as well as payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on August 17, 2022, law enforcement seized 226.7 grams of fentanyl pills, 203 grams of methamphetamine pills, 72.9 grams of white powdery fentanyl, and approximately $181,623.00 in U.S. currency from STEWART’s residence.  In addition, STEWART sold fentanyl pills to a confidential source on April 21, 2022 and June 2, 2022. STEWART also sold methamphetamine to a confidential source on June 22, 2022 and July 6, 2022.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Orleans Division and the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARIUS DANNEL, age 28, and TERRELL MOORE, age 25, both of New Orleans, were sentenced on June 28, 2023 by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  DANNEL received a total sentence of 360 months imprisonment, while MOORE received a total sentence of 330 months imprisonment.  In addition, both defendants received five years of supervised release following their term of imprisonment, along with a $400 mandatory special assessment fee.   

According to court documents, DANNEL and MOORE previously pled guilty to attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute quantities of marijuana, using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.   

This prosecution stems from a December 28, 2020 shootout that occurred at the Jung Hotel in  New Orleans.  DANNEL and MOORE, along with four other co-defendants, entered the Jung Hotel in an attempt to rob drug dealers (hotel occupants) of significant amounts of marijuana.  During the attempted robbery, a shootout ensued with over 80 shots fired and  three people wounded.  These events were documented by video footage from Jung Hotel security cameras.  Three of the marijuana distributors involved in the shootout, Clarence Santiago, Brian Jacob, and Malik Fernandez, pled guilty to similar crimes before United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry.  On March 7, 2023, Judge Guidry sentenced Santiago to a 30-year term of imprisonment.   Defendants Everson, Batiste, Ross, Howard, and Fernandez are scheduled to be sentenced on July 12, 2023 and Brian Jacob will be sentenced on October 31, 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 and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit  and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that CHRISTOPHER YARBROUGH (“YARBROUGH”), age 42, of Slidell, Louisiana, was indicted for receipt of child pornography in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2252(a)(2) and (b)(1).  If convicted, YARBROUGH faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years and a maximum sentence of twenty (20) years imprisonment, and/or a fine of $250,000.00, or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person of the offense under Title 18, United States Code, Section 3571.  In addition, YARBROUGH faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life after his release from prison as well as payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

According to court documents , the case against YARBROUGH stemmed from an online Child Sexual Abuse Material (“CSAM”) investigation by the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The investigation was referred to the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”).  On June 26, 2023, HSI special agents, along with members of the Slidell Police Department and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, executed a federal search warrant at YARBROUGH’s Slidell home.  HSI agents arrested YARBROUGH during the search and charged him with receipt of CSAM.  HSI’s investigation revealed YARBROUGH received images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office; the Slidell Police Department; and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator and Chief of Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JASON CAREY, age 42, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, was charged today in a twenty-count indictment for bank fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1344, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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

If convicted, CAREY faces up to thirty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, up to five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Evans emphasized that an indictment is merely an allegation, and that all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

U.S. Attorney Evans also praised the work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On June 27, 2023, DAMION WILSON, age 23, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, was found guilty by a federal jury of four counts in a six count indictment.  Specifically, WILSON was found guilty of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, maintaining a drug involved premises, and lying to a federal agent.  He was acquitted of two other related counts.

His sentencing is set for October 18, 2023. 

As to Count 3 of the indictment, for which he was convicted of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, in violation of United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D), he faces up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a term of supervised release of up to two years.

As to Count 4 , for which he was convicted of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c), he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a maximum of life in prison.  Any sentence imposed in connection with this count must be served consecutively.  He also faces payment of a fine of up to  $250,000.00, and a term of supervised release of up to  five years. 

As to Count 5 , for which he was convicted of maintaining a drug involved premises, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 856, he faces up to  twenty years in prison, a fine of up to $250,00.00, and a term of supervised release of up to  three years.

As to Count 6, for which he was convicted of lying to a federal agent, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001, he faces up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to one year of supervised release.  As to each count of conviction, he also faces payment of a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. 

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

This case was investigated by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (A.T.F.), the New Orleans Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Marshal’s Service.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the General Crimes Unit and Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On Wednesday, June 28, 2023, LARANZA THOMAS, a/k/a “Dude,” age 28, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced to 160 months in federal prison, five years of supervised release upon release from prison, as well as payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

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

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, the New Orleans Police Department, the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Orleans Levee District Police Department, and the Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections – Division of Probation and Parole. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JAMES MAGEE, age 31, DEON SHORT, age 26, and CHARLES WHITE, age 31, all residents of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, and DENTRELL JOHNSON, age 28, a Slidell, Louisiana resident, were charged on June 22, 2023 in a sealed fourteen-count superseding indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  The case was unsealed on June 28, 2023.

The indictment charged MAGEE, JOHNSON, and WHITE with conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and quantities of cocaine base, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846.  For this offense, they face 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.

SHORT is also charged with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846.  For this offense, he faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

The indictment also  charged  MAGEE, JOHNSON, WHITE and SHORT with distribution and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, including but not limited to cocaine and cocaine base, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).  For each of these offenses, the defendants face up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

MAGEE is charged with two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  JOHNSON is charged with one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.  For each offense, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years imprisonment, up to life, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years supervised release.

MAGEE is also charged with two counts 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).  For this offense, he faces up to fifteen years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.

For each of the counts of the indictment in which they are charged , the defendants face 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 defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case was investigated by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration and 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 – EDDIE HARRIS, age 39, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 28, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Jane T. Milazzo to 92 months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release, along with a mandatory $200 special assessment fee, for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, HARRIS admitted to possessing a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber semi-automatic weapon after being previously convicted of several state felony offenses, including possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and felon in possession of a firearm.  HARRIS also admitted to possessing 25 baggies of cocaine with the intent to distribute them.

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

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit handled the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JAMES ARNOLD pleaded guilty yesterday to Theft from an Agency Receiving Federal Funds, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

ARNOLD admitted to engaging in a theft scheme while he was employed as a Utility Services Administrator for the Sewerage and Water Board of New Orleans (S&WB).  Beginning in approximately 2012 and continuing until in or about November 2021, ARNOLD stole S&WB funds by causing the S&WB to issue plumbing permits when it had not received the fees required for the issuance of those permits.  ARNOLD did this by instructing plumbers to provide him with payments for the fees.  ARNOLD would then keep the payments for his personal use and cause the S&WB to issue the permits without the S&WB having received the required fees. By engaging in this scheme, ARNOLD caused a loss to the S&WB of approximately $108,290.

The offense to which ARNOLD pled guilty is punishable by up to ten years’ imprisonment followed by up to three years’ supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 special assessment.  United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo scheduled ARNOLD’s sentencing for October 11, 2023.

This case was 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 – On June 27, 2023, New Orleans resident, DEVIN CHANEY (“CHANEY”), age 33, was sentenced by United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to 188 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.  CHANEY had previously pled guilty to one count of Armed Bank Robbery in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a) and (d) (Count 9); and one count of Hobbs Act Robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1951(a) (Count 3).  Judge Guidry also ordered CHANEY to pay restitution in the amount of $4,706.00, as well as a mandatory special assessment fee of $200.00.

CHANEY had been charged with committing five armed robberies in New Orleans during December 2021.  He was also charged with possessing with intent to distribute cocaine.   CHANEY admitted that on Christmas Eve 2021, he entered the Capital One Bank in New Orleans, presented a demand note to a teller and received money but was disappointed in the amount.  CHANEY then approached a second teller, pointing a firearm, and received additional money before leaving the bank.  In total, CHANEY robbed the Capital One Bank of approximately $2,506.00.  Additionally, on December 12, 2021, CHANEY entered a Subway sandwich shop in New Orleans, pointed a firearm at the cashier, demanding money and received  approximately $600.00.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crimes Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Long of the Financial Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans, the Department of Justice, together with federal and state law enforcement partners, today announced a strategically coordinated, two-week nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 78 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes that included over $2.5 billion in alleged fraud.

The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled, and, in some cases, used the proceeds of the schemes to purchase luxury items, including exotic automobiles, jewelry, and yachts. In connection with the enforcement action, the Department seized or restrained millions of dollars in cash, automobiles, and real estate. 

“These enforcement actions, including against one of the largest health care fraud schemes ever prosecuted by the Justice Department, represent our intensified efforts to combat fraud and prosecute the individuals who profit from it,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The Justice Department will find and bring to justice criminals who seek to defraud Americans and steal from taxpayer-funded programs.” 

“This nationwide enforcement action demonstrates that the Criminal Division is committed to fighting health care fraud and opioid abuse by prosecuting those who allegedly exploit patients and health care benefit programs for personal gain,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s announcement includes some of the largest and most complex cases that the Department has prosecuted, and demonstrates the Department’s commitment to seeking justice for those at all levels of the healthcare industry who put profits above patient care, from professionals in doctors’ offices to executives in corporate boardrooms.” 

“Health care fraud is a complex and ever-evolving threat that negatively impacts the American people,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Today’s nationwide coordinated law enforcement action is a testament to the tenacity of the FBI and our partners, as well as our combined efforts to pursue anyone who conspires to exploit our health care system for financial gain.”

In the Eastern District of Louisiana, Craig Lovelace, the owner and President of Advanced Medical Equipment Inc. (AME), a corporation doing business in Kenner, Louisiana, was charged on June 15, 2023  by bill of information with Health Care Fraud.  AME operated as a durable medical equipment (DME) supply company that submitted claims to Medicare and Medicaid for DME supplied to beneficiaries. From approximately January 2016, and continuing through approximately 2022, Lovelace, through AME, allegedly executed a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid by submitting, false and fraudulent claims for certain health care items purportedly supplied to beneficiaries. Such items, including DME, were alleged to be medically unnecessary, ineligible for Medicare reimbursement, or not provided as represented. Lovelace, in turn, used the fraudulent proceeds generated from this scheme for the benefit of himself and others.

Telemedicine Fraud

The enforcement action included charges against 11 defendants in connection with the submission of over $2 billion in fraudulent claims resulting from telemedicine schemes. In a case involving the alleged organizers of one of the largest health care fraud schemes ever prosecuted, an indictment in the Southern District of Florida alleges that the chief executive officer (CEO), former CEO, and Vice President of Business Development of purported software and services companies conspired to generate and sell templated doctors’ orders for orthotic braces and pain creams in exchange for kickbacks and bribes. The conspiracy allegedly resulted in the submission of $1.9 billion in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare and other government insurers for orthotic braces, prescription skin creams, and other items that were medically unnecessary and ineligible for Medicare reimbursement. 

As part of the alleged conspiracy, individuals in a massive telemarketing operation, located in the United States and abroad, targeted the elderly and disabled with direct mail, television advertisements, and other forms of advertising to induce them to contact offshore boiler-rooms staffed by individuals who “up-sold” the elderly and disabled on unnecessary medical equipment and prescriptions. According to the indictment, the software platform that the defendants allegedly operated was actually a conduit for these telemarketers to coordinate the payment of illegal kickbacks and bribes to telemedicine companies to obtain doctors’ orders for Medicare beneficiaries. The defendants allegedly programmed the software platform to generate false and fraudulent orders for telemedicine practitioners to sign and obstruct Medicare investigations by concealing that the interactions with beneficiaries had occurred remotely using telemedicine. The program-generated orders falsified certifications that the telemedicine doctors had examined the beneficiaries in person, and falsified diagnostic testing that Medicare required for brace orders. After the original CEO sold the company in a corporate acquisition, the new corporate leadership allegedly chose to continue the pre-existing fraud scheme.

In another telemedicine fraud case, in the Eastern District of Washington, a licensed physician was charged for signing more than 2800 fraudulent orders for orthotic braces, including for patients whose limbs had already been amputated. As alleged, the physician took less than 40 seconds to review and sign each order.

The cases announced today build on earlier telemedicine enforcement actions involving over $10.1 billion in fraud. The April 2019 Operation Brace Yourself Telemedicine and Durable Medical Equipment Takedown alone resulted in an estimated cost avoidance of more than $1.9 billion in the amount Medicare paid for orthotic braces in the 20 months following that enforcement action, preserving the Medicare trust fund for necessary medical care.

“Patients trust federal health care programs to provide high quality care. When bad actors steal from these programs, they hurt patients,” said Inspector General Christi A. Grimm of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is dedicated to protecting federal health care programs and putting patients first. Thank you to our law enforcement partners, especially the Medicaid Fraud Control Units, that participated in this effort.”

Pharmaceutical Fraud

The enforcement action also included charges against 10 defendants in connection with the submission of over $370 million in fraudulent claims submitted in connection with prescription drugs. In one case announced today, the owner and corporate officer of a pharmaceutical wholesale distribution company was charged for an alleged $150 million fraud scheme in which the company purchased illegally diverted prescription HIV medication, and then marketed and resold the medication by falsely representing that the company acquired it through legitimate channels. The defendant allegedly purchased the diverted medication at a substantial discount from individuals who obtained the drugs primarily through illegal “buyback” schemes in which they paid HIV patients cash for their expensive HIV medication and repackaged those pills for resale. To cover up their scheme, the defendant and others falsified labeling and product tracing documentation to make it appear legitimate. Pharmacies purchased the misbranded medications, dispensed them to patients, and billed them to health care benefit programs, all while the defendants reaped substantial illegal profits. 

In a related case, on June 15, an individual in the Southern District of Florida was sentenced to 15 years in prison for his role in this nationwide scheme. According to court documents, the defendant illegally acquired large quantities of prescription drugs from patients for whom the drugs had been prescribed but not yet consumed. The defendant and others then repackaged the drugs and sold them to wholesale companies. In some instances, the medication that the defendant sold contained the wrong medication, broken pills, and even pebbles, leading to complaints by pharmacies. The defendant used his share of the proceeds to purchase luxury goods, including a $280,000 Lamborghini, a $220,000 Mercedes, and three boats. 

Opioid Distribution and Other Types of Health Care Fraud

The charges also targeted over $150 million in false billings submitted in connection with other types of health care fraud, including the illegal distribution of opioids and clinical laboratory testing fraud. Today’s enforcement action includes charges against 24 physicians and other licensed medical professionals who lined their own pockets, including doctors who allegedly put their patients at risk by illegally providing them with opioids they did not need. The charges also include cases where healthcare companies, physicians, and other providers paid cash kickbacks to patient recruiters and beneficiaries in return for patient information, so that the providers could submit fraudulent bills for Medicare reimbursement. 

“At DEA, we are committed to protecting the safety and health of all Americans,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “When individuals divert addictive opioid medications for personal gain, they are knowingly putting Americans at risk, all too often causing harm and even death. DEA is committed to taking decisive action to hold accountable anyone who participates in these dangerous schemes.”

“CHAMPVA provides community health care to family members of our nation’s disabled or deceased veterans, and the defendants’ alleged criminal actions resulted in a multibillion-dollar fraud scheme that puts those benefits at risk and pilfers significant taxpayer funds,” said Inspector General Michael J. Missal of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG). “The VA-OIG’s continued oversight of VA’s multiple healthcare programs, including CHAMPVA, is one of the agency’s highest priorities. We thank our outstanding law enforcement partners for their efforts in this investigation.”

The Center for Program Integrity of the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CPI/CMS) separately announced today that it took adverse administrative actions in the last six months against 90 medical providers for their alleged involvement in health care fraud.

Principal Assistant Deputy Chief Jacob Foster and Acting Assistant Chief Rebecca Yuan of the National Rapid Response Strike Force of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section led and coordinated today’s enforcement action. The Health Care Fraud Unit’s Strike Forces in Brooklyn, Dallas, Detroit, the Gulf Coast, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, and Tampa; the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response Strike Force; the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Southern District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Southern District of Ohio, District of South Carolina, Southern District of Texas, Eastern District of Washington, and Eastern District of Wisconsin; and the State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Indiana, New York, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting these cases, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team. Descriptions of cases involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit/2023-national-hcf-court-documents.

In addition to the FBI, HHS-OIG, DEA, and CMS/CPI, State Medicaid Fraud Control Units, HSI, FDA, IRS-CI, VA-OIG, USPS-OIG, FDIC-OIG, OPM-OIG, Amtrak-OIG, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies participated in the operation.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, comprised of 15 strike forces operating in 25 federal districts, has charged more than 5,000 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $24 billion. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

The Fraud Section uses the Victim Notification System to provide victims with case information and updates related to this case. Victims with questions may contact the Fraud Section’s Victim Assistance Unit by calling the Victim Assistance phone line at 1-888-549-3945 or by emailing victimassistance.fraud@usdoj.gov. To learn more about victims’ rights, please visit www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/victim-rights-derechos-de-las-v-ctimas, and for further information for victims about new federal charges in connection with the HIV scheme, please visit www.justice.gov/criminal-vns/case/united-states-v-steven-diamantstein.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On Tuesday June 27, 2023, TYRESE HARRIS, age 20, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to 45 years imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $500 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to a five-count superseding indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

In Count 1, HARRIS is charged with conspiracy to commit carjackings, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.  Count 2 and Count 4 charged HARRIS with committing and attempting to commit a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Count 3 charged HARRIS with using a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c)(1)(A)(ii) and 2.  Count 5 charged HARRIS with committing a carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2119(2) and 2. 

From August 19, 2021 to February 1, 2022, HARRIS conspired to commit carjackings.  On August 19, 2021, HARRIS committed a carjacking in the 600 block of Washington Avenue in New Orleans, LA.  During that incident, HARRIS and two of his co-conspirators used a firearm to threaten the victim and take the vehicle.  Two days later the victim’s stolen vehicle was  located in New Orleans east with HARRIS and three other occupants inside.  HARRIS fled, leading police on a high-speed chase that ended with the victim’s vehicle crashing into a ditch.  HARRIS and the vehicle’s three other occupants were eventually apprehended.  On January 18, 2022, HARRIS and his co-conspirators attempted to carjack another vehicle at a Howard Avenue gas station.  During this attempted carjacking, HARRIS fired his weapon at the victim and the victim’s vehicle.  Finally, on February 1, 2022, HARRIS and his co-conspirators carjacked another vehicle belonging to a victim who was pumping gas at a Costco on S. Carrollton Avenue.  During the carjacking, the victim was dragged by the car, resulting in serious bodily injury. 

“Thanks to AUSA Inga Petrovich and the entire law enforcement team for bringing this prosecution home,” said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  “TYRESE HARRIS is now off to federal prison for the next forty-five (45) years.  His six-month reign of terror, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, is now at an end.  Rest assured that when violent crime affects our citizens or businesses, our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners will diligently work to bring the offenders to justice.”

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 Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KESHAWN KELLY, age 20, a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 27, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry to an  indictment  charging him with influencing federal officials by threat, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 115(a)(1)(B), and assaulting, resisting, or impeding federal officers, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(a)(1), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on February 15, 2022, KELLY initiated a 21-minute standoff with police in the emergency department parking lot at the New Orleans VA Medical Center.  During the standoff, KELLY possessed an AR-15 rifle that was fully loaded with a round in the chamber and the selector switch in the semi-automatic firing position.  KELLY, who continuously refused to get out of the car he occupied with his hands up, made various threats to shoot and otherwise assault the officers for the duration of the standoff.

KELLY’s sentencing is scheduled for October 3, 2023.  The maximum punishment KELLY faces for influencing federal officials by threat is six years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  The maximum punishment for assaulting federal officers is one year imprisonment, up to a $100,000 fine, up to one year of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $25 mandatory special assessment fee.

This case was investigated by the United States Department of Veteran’s Affairs Police.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – EMILY HUCKABEE, age 23, a resident of Yuma, Arizona, pled guilty on June 22, 2023 before United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier to a  superseding bill of information charging her with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on June 28, 2022, a Louisiana State Police Trooper  stopped a 2015 Ford F-150 driven by HUCKABEE and traveling on I-59 in Pearl River, Louisiana, for traffic violations.  A narcotics detection canine sniffed the vehicle and detected a narcotics odor.  HUCKABEE admitted to the Troopers that there was a large amount of controlled substances in a bag on the rear seat of the vehicle.  Troopers searched the vehicle and discovered 10.58 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine wrapped in twenty-seven vacuum sealed packages.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MICHAEL ALEXANDER, SR. age 41, a Ponchatoula, Louisiana resident, was sentenced on June 15, 2023, to 180 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  ALEXANDER previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 100 grams or more of heroin, and a quantity of cocaine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and being a felon in possession of firearms.

According to court documents, Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”) agents began investigating the drug trafficking activities of the Jungle Life Mafia street gang in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana in 2019.  On December 2, 2021, DEA agents executed a federal search warrant on ALEXANDER’s home in Ponchatoula.  During the search, agents discovered approximately eleven ounces of heroin mixed with fentanyl and five illegal guns.  Additionally, agents seized $289,224.70 in U.S. currency.  The investigation spanned two years.

JOSHUA PRINE, age 42, a Tangipahoa Parish resident, was sentenced on June 13, 2023, to 20 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  PRINE previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 1 kilogram or more of heroin.

Pursuant to a traffic stop, PRINE was found to be in possession of four ounces of heroin mixed with fentanyl that he planned to deliver to a co-conspirator.

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.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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 Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Hammond Police Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Twenty-First Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Twenty-Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Marshals Service.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – WILBERT BARNES, a resident of Angie, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 22, 2023 to 2 years of probation, 100 hours of community service, and a $25 mandatory special assessment fee, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.  Pursuant to the Mandatory Victim Restitution Act, United States District Judge Barry Ashe further imposed restitution of $12,500, which BARNES has already paid.  BARNES previously pled guilty to making a false entry in a union record, having misappropriated $12,500 of funds from United Steelworkers Local 1362.

According to court records, BARNES held the position of Recording Secretary of United Steelworkers Local 1362.  BARNES confessed to the local sheriff’s office that he took $12,500 of Local 1352’s funds via two unauthorized checks in June 2021.  Upon further investigation, it was determined that BARNES had misappropriated at least $25,000 of Local 1362’s funds since 2017. In 2017, BARNES negotiated a Local 1362 check worth $9,000.  In May of 2021, BARNES negotiated a check for $4,000 with a memo entry falsely stating that the check was for “school books, t-shirts.”  In June of 2021, BARNES forged a check for $7,500 and made a cash withdrawal from the union’s account in the amount of $5,000.  BARNES confessed that he used this money to pay his gambling debts.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Department of Labor in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JORDAN MEAUX, age 32, and LEON THOMPSON, age 38, both residents of Plaquemines Parish, were charged on June 22, 2023, in a four-count indictment with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, and possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine and a quantity of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  MEAUX was also charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).

If convicted of the conspiracy count, MEAUX AND THOMPSON each face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years up to a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  If convicted of the possession with intent to distribute counts, MEAUX and THOMPSON each face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years up to 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 felon in possession count, MEAUX faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release.  As to each charged count, MEAUX and THOMPSON also face payment of a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  On June 22, 2023, BRIAN TARDY, age 31, a resident of Orleans Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to 106 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee after previously pleading guilty to a three-count superseding bill of information, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

Count One charged TARDY with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D).  Count Two charged TARDY with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1). Count Three charged TARDY with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g) and 924(a)(2).

According to court documents, on July 8, 2021, NOPD was conducting proactive surveillance in New Orleans East.  While doing so, officers witnessed TARDY exit and re-enter a vehicle with an assault rifle.  Upon discovering that the vehicle was uninsured, NOPD conducted a traffic stop and saw marijuana in plain view and detected strong smell of same.  After arresting TARDY, officers discovered additional marijuana on his person and obtained a search warrant for the vehicle.  During the execution of the warrant, officers located the same assault rifle TARDY was seen with, along with other controlled substances.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KIRK ODOMS, age 36, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 22, 2023 before United States District Judge Susie Morgan to drug and gun charges contained in an indictment previously returned against him.  Specifically, he pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) and Felon in Possession of a Firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

The Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine charge carries a term of imprisonment of not more than 20 years, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least three years of supervised release.  The Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 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.

Sentencing for ODOMS is set for September 26, 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.  Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Violent Crime Unit is handling the prosecution of this case.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DATAYNA HOWARD, age 21, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on June 22, 2023, for violating the Federal Gun Control and Federal Controlled Substances Acts, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

HOWARD is charged in Count 1 of the indictment with possession with intent to distribute tapentadol and marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D).  He is charged in Count 2 with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A). 

If convicted of Count 1 HOWARD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, at least three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.  If convicted of Count 2, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, which is 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 is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CARLOS WALKER, age 33, a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 20, 2023 by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to   87 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $300.00 special assessment fee after pleading guilty to 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)(2), one count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C), and one count of possession of a firearm 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.  The sentence consisted of 27 months’ imprisonment for the felon in possession  and  possession with intent to distribute counts and 60 months’ imprisonment for the possession in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime count, to run consecutive to the 27-month sentence.

According to court documents, on September 24, 2021,  Bogalusa Police Department officers observed a black Nissan Altima with a non-functioning headlight driving in Bogalusa, Louisiana.  After stopping and approaching the vehicle, the officers saw WALKER in the front passenger seat kicking his legs as if he was shoving something under the seat.  One of the officers recognized WALKER and remembered that a warrant had been issued for his arrest. 

After the confirming the warrant, the officers arrested and searched WALKER, locating  approximately $4,000.00 in his pocket.  Officers also saw a Taurus Model G2C, nine-millimeter handgun under the passenger seat and located a small clear wrap containing seventeen (17) grams of methamphetamine in the front passenger door pocket.  A review of WALKER’s criminal record revealed that he had a prior felony drug conviction for drug and firearm violations.

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

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bogalusa Police Department, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS - On June 21, 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana (USAO, EDLA), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), New Orleans Field Office, the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) and the Anti-Defamation League, South Central Region (ADL) co-hosted an event at the Jewish Community Center entitled “United Against Hate: Identifying, Reporting, and Preventing Hate Crimes” to discuss the rate of antisemitism both nationally and locally.  UAH is a national federal initiative initiated by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland that encourages all 94 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nation-wide to host local outreach forums to educate citizens about hate crimes.  Yesterday’s meeting was the first of several planned outreach and educational events to be conducted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office as part of the Justice Department’s “United Against Hate” (UAH) outreach initiative, a nationwide program launched in September, 2022 to combat the rise in hate crimes. 

The local event at the Jewish Community Center featured presentations by Assistant U.S. Attorneys with experience in prosecuting hate crimes and civil rights violations, and representatives with the FBI-New Orleans, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Anti-Defamation League.  These presentations covered such topics as the definition of hate crimes; the distinction between hate crimes and hate incidents; and accessing hate crimes prevention resources.

“Crimes committed against individuals motivated by their perceived or actual race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability are heinous acts that denigrate the dignity of victims”, said U.S. Attorney Evans.  “DOJ’s UAH initiative provides the vital information needed for the public to not only identify and report hate crimes in their community but also establish and nurture positive working relationships between the greater community and law enforcement.”

U.S. Attorney Evans thanks ASAC Hannah Buch and, SSA Johnson from the FBI-New Orleans Field Office; the Anti-Defamation League-South Central Region Regional Director Lindsay Friedman, Criminal Division Chief Tracey Knight, Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon (Criminal Civil Rights Coordinator), Civil Division Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Adams, New Orleans Police Department Lieutenant Hudson Cutno, Jr. and the Jewish Community Center for their development and participation in the program.

Those who believe they are subject to hate crimes or incidents should contact local law enforcement and the FBI.  Members of the public may report possible civil rights violations at https://civilrights.justice.gov/report/.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DIOGO HERNANDEZ, age 19, a resident of Bourg, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 15, 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, HERNANDEZ was arrested on July 27, 2022, when he conspired with his co-defendant, Anthony Monreal-Fabela, to take possession of twenty kilograms of cocaine that had been smuggled into the Port of New Orleans via a container ship. Monreal-Fabela and HERNANDEZ were to deliver the cocaine to a destination upon receiving further instructions.

HERNANDEZ 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, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and United States Customs and Border Protection. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS – KENNETH MUSE, age 24, of New Orleans, was sentenced on June 13, 2023 by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey for violations of the Controlled Substances and  Gun Control Acts, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

According to court records, MUSE admitted to possessing a machinegun as well as tramadol pills that he had been selling.  The gun MUSE possessed had been equipped with a “Glock switch,” transforming the normally semi-automatic pistol into fully automatic.  Specifically, MUSE admitted to deputies that he possessed the tramadol with the intent to distribute, that he possessed the gun in furtherance of drug trafficking, and that he was a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. 

Judge Zainey sentenced MUSE to fifteen years in the Bureau of Prisons, five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee. 

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

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced Thursday that GEORGE JEFFERSON, age 46, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on June 15, 2023 before Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to a four-count indictment for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of heroin.  JEFFERSON, a convicted felon, also pled guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking and for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

JEFFERSON faces up to forty years of imprisonment, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $5,000,000 for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and faces up to twenty years of imprisonment, at least 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1,000,000 for possession with intent to distribute heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C).  JEFFERSON faces a mandatory five years of imprisonment, imposed consecutively to the charged drug offenses for possession of a Glock Model 23, .40 caliber gun, in furtherance of dealing fentanyl and heroin, in violation of Title 18, United States Code Section 924(c).  JEFFERSON also faces up to ten years imprisonment, up to 3 years supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(2).  Additionally, for each of the four counts to which he pled guilty, JEFFERSON faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

JEFFERSON is scheduled to be sentenced on October 12, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – COREY HALE, age 32, pleaded guilty on June 15, 2023, before United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to two counts of an indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

HALE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of up to $250,000.00,  up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On , June 15, 2023, KEDRICK RILEY, age 27, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty to a two-count indictment charging him with violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  In Count 1, RILEY is charged with being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2).  In Count 2, RILEY is charged with Possession of a Machine Gun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(o) and 924(a)(2).  Each offense carries a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, a period of supervised release of up to 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00.

According to court records, the New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) observed RILEY on social media in possession of a firearm.  RILEY was on probation at the time.  In March 2022, NOPD executed a search warrant at RILEY’s residence.  During the search, 5 firearms were found hidden underneath a mattress in RILEY’s bedroom.  A manufacturing conversion device, commonly known as a Glock switch, was attached to one of the firearms.  This device converts a semi-automatic firearm to a fully functioning automatic firearm with the single pull of the trigger.  RILEY, a convicted felon, is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Chief United States District  Judge, Nannette Jolivette Brown, will sentence RILEY on October 12, 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 Brittany Reed of the Public Integrity Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Today, CHRISTOPHER COBURN (“COBURN”), age 51, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged with making false statements on an individual tax return, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(1), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the bill of information, COBURN willfully under-reported the gross receipts for his tax preparation business by approximately $30,311.39 for the calendar year 2017 on his United States Individual Tax Return, Form 1040.

If convicted, COBURN faces a maximum sentence of three (3) years of imprisonment.  Upon release from prison, COBURN also faces a term of supervised release for up to one (1) year, and/or a fine of $100,000 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.  COBURN also faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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.

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

NEW ORLEANS – JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA, age 54, was sentenced for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) on June 14, 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents , JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA (“MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA”) admitted reentering the United States after being  previously deported on February 3, 2003.  MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA was sentenced by Judge Susie Morgan, to 8 months in federal prison.  He will be deported  again following the completion of his sentence.  He was also ordered to pay a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

NEW ORLEANS – Former United States Army reservist LYNEA SANDERS was sentenced on June 15, 2023, to 3 years of probation, 150 hours of community service, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  Pursuant to the Mandatory Victim Restitution Act, Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown further imposed restitution of $21,780.18, which SANDERS has already paid.  SANDERS previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, having stolen $21,780.18 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.”

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command, including Special Agents Dustin Stevens, John Hiniker, Jeffrey Riedeman, and Denny Richter.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.          

NEW ORLEANS – Former United States Army reservist CHANTELLE DAVIS was sentenced on June 15, 2023, to 2 years of probation, 100 hours of community service, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  Pursuant to the Mandatory Victim Restitution Act, Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown further imposed restitution of $8,399.65, which DAVIS has already paid.  DAVIS previously pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, having stolen $8,399.65 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.”

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command, including Special Agents Dustin Stevens, John Hiniker, Jeffrey Riedeman, and Denny Richter.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit.          

NEW ORLEANS – CHRISTOPHER L. KEEL, age 52, of Tampa, Florida, pleaded guilty on June 14, 2023 to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and false impersonation of an employee or officer of the United States, arising from his actions to defraud elderly victims in Louisiana and Washington State, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle scheduled KEEL’S sentencing for October 11, 2023.

According to court documents, KEEL was arrested on April 4, 2022, by Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies in Hammond, Louisiana, while attempting to defraud a 77-year-old woman identified as “Victim A.”  Deputies had received an earlier report from the victim’s son, that his mother had been contacted by people posing as U.S. Department of Treasury agents.  These “agents” told Victim A that she should withdraw money from her bank accounts and send it to them for safekeeping because her accounts had been allegedly implicated in fraud or money laundering.  Beginning in early March 2022, Victim A transferred approximately $60,000 via Green Dot cards to the “agents.”  The agents also instructed Victim A to give an additional $60,000 to another “agent” on April 3rd.  Victim A complied and handed over this sum to the “agent”, later identified as KEEL, at a mall in Hammond.  The next day, the perpetrators called Victim A and instructed her to withdraw the remaining funds from her accounts and hand them over as well.  Victim A’s bank contacted her son, who then called the police.

While deputies met with Victim A on April 4th, the “agents” called her again and gave her instructions to hand over the rest of her money.  Deputies arranged a sting operation and arrested KEEL after he approached Victim A in the mall parking lot.  Victim A identified KEEL as the same man she met with the prior day.  Deputies seized a cell phone and hotel receipts from KEEL.  

Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) continued the investigation and learned that KEEL and a co-conspirator, had both traveled to New Orleans within the past 48 hours on plane tickets purchased with the same credit card.  They flew from Seattle, where agents identified another victim (“Victim B”).  Victim B, a 76-year-old woman, had been defrauded of $300,000.  A search of KEEL’S phone showed that he sent a photograph of a box with Victim B’s name and address on it.  Victim B said she used this box to deliver her money to the “agent” she met with in Tukwila, Washington.

HSI Agents also identified another victim (“Victim C”), an 80-year-old woman living in Bossier Parish, Louisiana.  Agents learned that Victim C had withdrawn $36,000 from her account because purported federal “agents” called and told her that her accounts had been compromised.  However, prior to delivering the money, local police were contacted and waited at her home.  Police observed a vehicle circle near Victim C’s house then depart.  An officer recorded the vehicle’s license plate.  Later, HSI Agents obtained rental records showing that the vehicle had been leased by a co-conspirator at the time of the attempted fraud.

The search of KEEL’S cell phone revealed his contacts with other co-conspirators dating back to 2021, and his travel to other states, including Texas and Oklahoma, to further the conspiracy.  HSI and Federal Bureau of Investigation agents determined that, since October 2021, KEEL and his co-conspirators caused approximately $4,498,327 in actual and attempted losses to 31 victims located throughout the United States.

KEEL pleaded guilty to both counts of the superseding indictment pending in this case.  As to Count 1, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, KEEL faces a maximum penalty of 20 years imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000.00 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, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  As to Count 2, false impersonation of an officer or employee of the United States, KEEL faces a maximum penalty of three years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 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, followed by up to one year of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Homeland Security Investigations New Orleans Field Office in investigating this matter.  U.S. Attorney Evans also thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation (Detroit Field Office,) the Homeland Security Investigations (Seattle Field Office,) the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this successful prosecution.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne, Senior Litigation Counsel, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On Friday June 9, 2023, DANIEEL MUTIN, age 18, and JUAN MATTHEWS, age 21, both residents of New Orleans, Louisiana, were charged in a five-count indictment, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

In Count 1, MUTIN is charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C).  If convicted of Count 1, MUTIN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release.  In Count 2, MUTIN is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A).  If convicted of Count 2, MUTIN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.

In Count 3, MATTHEWS is charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana and tapentadol, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C), and (b)(1)(D).  If convicted of Count 3, MATTHEWS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release.  In Count 4, MATTHEWS is charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A).  If convicted of Count 4, MATTHEWS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.  In Count 5, MATTHEWS is charged with possession of a machinegun in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§  922(o) and 924(a)(2).  If convicted of  Count 5, MATTHEWS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. As to each count, MATTHEWS faces payment of  a mandatory special assessment fee of $100..

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

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

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