Eastern District of Louisiana

A Honduran national pleaded guilty today to his role in a scheme to illegally bring Honduran nationals to, and to distribute cocaine in, the United States.

According to court documents, beginning in as early as January 2021, Josue Flores-Villeda, 36, and six co-conspirators schemed to bring Honduran nationals and cocaine from Honduras to the United States. In February 2022, Villeda and his co-conspirators attempted to illegally bring 23 Honduran nationals and at least 24 kilograms of cocaine from Utila, Honduras, to Cocodrie, Louisiana, by boat. At some point, the vessel developed engine trouble in the Gulf of Mexico. Villeda and his co-conspirators then chartered a boat and attempted to bring fuel to the disabled vessel so that it could complete its journey to the United States. Shortly thereafter, the U.S. Coast Guard located the vessel adrift approximately 95 miles off the coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana, and towed it to shore.

Villeda pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for financial gain and conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 6 and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

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

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

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

The investigation is being conducted under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), which was established by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Department of Justice, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to enhance U.S. enforcement efforts against the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.

Since its creation, JTFA has successfully increased coordination and collaboration between the Justice Department, DHS, and other interagency law enforcement participants, and with foreign law enforcement partners, including El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico; targeted those organizations who have the most impact on the United States; and coordinated significant smuggling indictments and extradition efforts in U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. JTFA is comprised of detailees from southwest border U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, including the Southern District of Texas, the Western District of Texas, the District of New Mexico, the District of Arizona, and the Southern District of California, and dedicated support for the program is also provided by numerous components of the Criminal Division that are part of JTFA – led by the HRSP, and supported by the Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training (OPDAT), the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS), the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), the Office of Enforcement Operations (OEO), the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA), and the Organized Crime and Gang Section (OCGS). JTFA is made possible by substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners.

The investigation is also supported by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), as well as the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a joint partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

A Honduran national pleaded guilty today to his role in a scheme to illegally bring Honduran nationals to, and to distribute cocaine in, the United States.

According to court documents, beginning in as early as January 2021, Josue Flores-Villeda, 36, and six co-conspirators schemed to bring Honduran nationals and cocaine from Honduras to the United States. In February 2022, Villeda and his co-conspirators attempted to illegally bring 23 Honduran nationals and at least 24 kilograms of cocaine from Utila, Honduras, to Cocodrie, Louisiana, by boat. At some point, the vessel developed engine trouble in the Gulf of Mexico. Villeda and his co-conspirators then chartered a boat and attempted to bring fuel to the disabled vessel so that it could complete its journey to the United States. Shortly thereafter, the U.S. Coast Guard located the vessel adrift approximately 95 miles off the coast of Grand Isle, Louisiana, and towed it to shore.

Villeda pleaded guilty to conspiracy to unlawfully bring aliens to the United States for financial gain and conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 6 and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine his sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

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

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

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

The investigation is being conducted under Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), which was established by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland in June 2021 to marshal the investigative and prosecutorial resources of the Department of Justice, in partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), to enhance U.S. enforcement efforts against the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating in Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras.

Since its creation, JTFA has successfully increased coordination and collaboration between the Justice Department, DHS, and other interagency law enforcement participants, and with foreign law enforcement partners, including El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Mexico; targeted those organizations who have the most impact on the United States; and coordinated significant smuggling indictments and extradition efforts in U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. JTFA is comprised of detailees from southwest border U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, including the Southern District of Texas, the Western District of Texas, the District of New Mexico, the District of Arizona, and the Southern District of California, and dedicated support for the program is also provided by numerous components of the Criminal Division that are part of JTFA – led by the HRSP, and supported by the Office of Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training (OPDAT), the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS), the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), the Office of Enforcement Operations (OEO), the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs (OIA), and the Organized Crime and Gang Section (OCGS). JTFA is made possible by substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners.

The investigation is also supported by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), as well as the Extraterritorial Criminal Travel Strike Force (ECT) program, a joint partnership between the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and HSI. The ECT program focuses on human smuggling networks that may present particular national security or public safety risks, or present grave humanitarian concerns. ECT has dedicated investigative, intelligence, and prosecutorial resources. ECT coordinates and receives assistance from other U.S. government agencies and foreign law enforcement authorities.

NEW ORLEANS –GRANT C. MENARD, age 36 and a resident of Kaplan, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering before U.S. District Court Judge Jane Triche-Milazzo, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana.

As according to court documents, MENARD conspired with RYAN MULLEN, DUANE DUFRENE, DILLON ARCENEAUX, LANCE VALLO, and ZEB SARTIN to use a number of shell Louisiana companies with no assets to defraud a merchant cash advance company based in Georgia. MULLEN and DUFRENE helped establish ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN as the owners of existing corporations. MULLEN and DUFRENE then created fake vendor accounts for the corporations, and MULLEN, with the aid of another person, created falsified bank records for the companies. MULLEN then used an alias, claiming to be a broker for the companies he helped create.

Through the aid of another broker, MULLEN supplied the victim merchant cash advance company with the fake vendor accounts and false bank records in order to obtain funding. The victim cash advance company approved the advances and began to electronically wire ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN millions of dollars in advances. ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN laundered a portion of the funds by paying MULLEN and DUFRENE percentages of the funds. ARCENEAUX, VALLO, MENARD, and SARTIN then closed their non-existent businesses before fully repaying the victim merchant cash advance company, resulting in overall losses of approximately $6.4 million. MENARD was responsible for approximately $649,990 in losses to the victim.

MENARD is to be sentenced on July 5, 2023 and faces a maximum sentence of five years on the wire fraud conspiracy, and a maximum sentence of up to twenty years on the money laundering conspiracy. After imprisonment, the defendant faces up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine on the wire fraud count, and up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $500,000 fine on the money laundering count. Each count also carries a  mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LA – MERVIN BAILEY, age 20, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today for carjacking and attempted carjacking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119 and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii) announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

BAILEY was sentenced to a total term of imprisonment of 147 months. This consists of 63 months each, to be served concurrently, for a carjacking on June 3, 2021, which occurred outside of a residence in New Orleans and an attempted carjacking of a Lyft driver on October 4, 2021 in New Orleans. A consecutive 84-month sentence was ordered for brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Additionally, the defendant must serve a three-year term of supervised release and pay a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.

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

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 U.S. Attorney Charles Strauss of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – LAIRD JOHNSON, age 24, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on March 23, 2023 to a five-count indictment alleging violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, Title 18 United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 922(j), 922(u), 924(a)(2), and 924(i)(1), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

Count 1 of the indictment charged JOHNSON with theft of a firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee (“FFL”), Counts 2 through 4 charged him with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and Count 5 charged him with possession of a stolen firearm. Court documents reveal JOHNSON did unlawfully take and carry away a Glock Model 19X 9mm semi-automatic handgun from the premises of PDW Solutions, LLC, an FFL on June 19, 2021. He further possessed a firearm on July 23, 2021. During a search of his home on August 10, 2021, three firearms were recovered, including a Zastava Arms 7.62 Rifle, a Glock Model 19 9mm semi-automatic handgun, and the Glock Model 19X 9mm semi-automatic handgun, that was stolen from PDW Solutions, LLC. JOHNSON is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his previous convictions in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court for aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and simple burglary.

Each count carries a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and 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.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Strauss of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KAMAL AL JAWHARI, age 28, a native of Lebanon, was sentenced for possession of a firearm by an illegal alien in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section. 922 (g)(5)(A) announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

JAWHARI was found guilty as charged on December 20, 2022, after a two-day jury trial before Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown.  JAWHARI was sentenced to time served and released to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for deportation proceedings.  Judge Brown also ordered that the JAWHARI serve a supervised release term of one year should he return to the United States.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorneys Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit, David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit, and Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit  are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KEATON MANGHANE, age 24, a resident of Chattanooga, Tennessee, was charged on March 10, 2023 in a sealed one-count indictment for possession of a machinegun. The indictment was unsealed on March 28, 2023.

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

U.S. Attorney Duane A. 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 David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – KEINAN CHAPMAN (“CHAPMAN”), age 39, was sentenced on March 23, 2023, for conspiring to transport and sell stolen vehicles in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, CHAPMAN and his co-conspirators stole cars from car dealerships and rental car facilities in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Georgia.  After the cars were stolen, CHAPMAN and his co-conspirators retitled the cars under fraudulent Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINS) with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles.  After the cars were retitled and cloned with fraudulent VINS, the defendants resold the cars to buyers in the New Orleans metro area at discounted prices.

Chief U.S. District Court Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown sentenced CHAPMAN to serve 57 months in prison, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release and imposed a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  The judge also set a restitution hearing in this matter for June 15, 2023.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, the Louisiana State Police, the D’Iberville Police Department, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Spiro G. Latsis and Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

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, pled guilty on March 21, 2023 to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, MARIO HERNANDEZ-MARIN, (“HERNANDEZ-MARIN”) admitted to reentering the United States after being previously deported on June 23, 2011.  HERNANDEZ-MARIN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. He also faces a sentencing enhancement of up to 20 years because of a prior felony conviction.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TERRANCE PICKETT, age 27, a resident of Zachary, Louisiana, was charged on March 24, 2023, in a one-count indictment for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

PICKETT is charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).

PICKETT faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DANIEL STEPHEN WRAY, a/k/a “Danny,” a/k/a “Tubs,” a/k/a “El Gordo,” age 34, a resident of Chula Vista, California, was charged March 24, 2023, in a one-count indictment by a federal grand jury with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

If convicted, WRAY faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DAWAYNE BOUTAIN, age 29, a resident of Violet, La. pleaded guilty on March 22, 2023 before United States District Judge Lance M. Africk to 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 Sheriff Officers were about to execute a search warrant.  BOUTAIN was subsequently 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 set sentencing for July 12, 2023.  BOUTAIN faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  He also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOEY J. STEVENSON, age 41, from New Orleans, was sentenced to 5 years probation for failing to pay employment taxes for his business, Community Care Solutions, Inc to the IRS, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

STEVENSON was indicted and pled guilty to failure to pay over employment taxes owed to the IRS, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7202. According to court documents, STEVENSON owned and operated Community Care Solutions, Inc. From 2015 through 2019, STEVENSON withheld over $500,000 in Medicare, Social Security, and income taxes from his employees’ paychecks, but failed to pay that money to the IRS. STEVENSON also failed to pay an additional $254,181.21 in taxes for the employer’s share of Medicare and Social Security taxes. In total, STEVENSON failed to pay $796,077.41 in taxes owed to IRS in connection with Community Care’s employees.

The Honorable Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced STEVENSON to 5 years probation, restitution in the amount of $796,077.41 to the IRS, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of IRS Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – THEODORE TARDIE, age 53, pled guilty on March 21, 2023, before United States District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey to a one-count superseding bill of information charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute five hundred (500) grams or more of methamphetamine in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, TARDIE conspired with others to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine within the Eastern District of Louisiana and elsewhere on or about January 22, 2020 and continuing to on or about July 29, 2020. 

TARDIE is scheduled to be sentenced on June 20, 2023. TARDIE faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years up to life, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least 5 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana State Police, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Gretna Major Crimes Task Force, and the Kenner Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARVEL FRANCOIS (“FRANCOIS”), age 54, of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on May 17, 2020, FRANCOIS, along with participants Damian Labeaud (“Labeaud”), Bernell Gale (“Gale”), Troy Smith (“Smith”), and another passenger, participated in a staged accident in the vicinity of Louisa Street and Chickasaw Street. Labeaud fled the scene. FRANCOIS falsely reported to the NOPD that she had been driving her Dodge Durango and that a tractor-trailer had struck her vehicle. Gale and Smith were previously sentenced before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk. Damian Labeaud’s sentencing is set for June 8, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon.

United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced FRANCOIS to 5 years probation, 100 hours of community service, payment of restitution in the amount of $20,654.48, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.

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

Today, the Department of Justice, on behalf of the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), filed a motion for preliminary injunction under the Clean Air Act (CAA) requesting that the court order Denka Performance Elastomer LLC (Denka) to require significant pollution controls to reduce chloroprene emissions, a pollutant that EPA has determined to be a likely carcinogen. The request for immediate relief by EPA and the Justice Department follows the United States’ complaint filed on Feb. 28, alleging an imminent and substantial endangerment to the communities surrounding the facility as a result of Denka’s manufacturing operations.

The Clean Air Act section 303 imminent and substantial endangerment lawsuit is currently pending in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

“Today’s motion asks the court to require Denka to take strong action to protect neighboring communities from the urgent dangers caused by its harmful emissions,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “This action shows our determination to address environmental justice concerns of overburdened communities and to protect children living and studying today near this facility.”

“All communities deserve to breathe fresh, clean air; it is one of EPA’s top priorities as we work to protect human health and the environment,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “This is another action that sends a clear message that the Biden-Harris Administration is committed to the health and safety of St. John the Baptist Parish, and I will continue to pledge that EPA will use all legal remedies available to reduce harmful air pollution in this community.”

“As Regional Administrator, I am committed to reducing exposure to chloroprene in St. John the Baptist Parish,” said Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance of EPA Region 6. “Transparent engagement with the community is a top priority because people who live near Denka deserve to understand the purpose of the motion filed today and what EPA hopes to achieve by bringing this Clean Air Act Imminent and Substantial Endangerment case.”

Denka’s facility, located in St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, manufactures neoprene, a flexible, synthetic rubber used to produce common goods like wetsuits, beverage cozies, laptop sleeves, orthopedic braces, and automotive belts and hoses. Chloroprene is a liquid raw material used to produce neoprene that is emitted into the air from various areas at the facility.

In 2010, EPA published its peer-reviewed assessment of chloroprene that concluded it is “likely to be carcinogenic to humans.” Approximately 20% of the total population living within two-and-a-half miles of Denka are children under the age of 18, and between 800-1,000 are children under the age of five. Children under the age of 16 are particularly vulnerable to mutagenic carcinogens like chloroprene. Denka’s chloroprene’s emissions reach more than 300 young children who attend the 5th Ward Elementary School, located within approximately 450 feet of Denka’s facility. Additionally, 1,200 children who attend East St. John High School, located about a mile-and-a-half north of Denka, are also exposed to the facility’s chloroprene emissions.

For more information on EPA’s actions to reduce chloroprene emissions from the Denka facility: www.epa.gov/la/laplace-st-john-baptist-parish-louisiana.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – BRIAN TARDY, age 31, resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty on Thursday, March 16, 2023 to all counts of a three-count superseding bill of information for drug and weapons violations, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  TARDY’s sentencing is set for June 22, 2023.

In Count 1 of the superseding bill of information, TARDY is charged with possession with the intent to distribute marijuana in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D) for which he faces  a maximum sentence of 5 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a  period of at least 2 years of supervised release.  Additionally, in Count 1, TARDY is charged with possession with the intent to distribute cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C) for which he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a period of at least 3 years of supervised release. In Count 2, TARDY is charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1) for which he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years to life imprisonment, to be run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and  a period of up to 5 years supervised release.  Finally, Count 3 charges 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) for which he  faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. For each count, TARDY also faces payment of $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the federal 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 –  ERNEST X. TAYLOR, JR., of LaPlace, LA, age 38, was indicted on March 17, 2023, by a federal grand jury for two counts of making false statements related to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act) announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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

According to court documents, TAYLOR made false statements to an approved lender on or about March 2, 2021, for the purpose of fraudulently obtaining a PPP loan. TAYLOR falsely claimed in his PPP application that he had not been convicted  of any felony involving “fraud, bribery, embezzlement, or a false statement in a loan application or an application for federal financial assistance” within the last 5 years. In truth, TAYLOR pleaded guilty in 2016, in the Eastern District of Virginia to conspiracy to commit federal student loan fraud and mail fraud in a scheme that involved stolen identities. Based upon these misrepresentations, TAYLOR  received approximately $18,500 . TAYLOR then made the same false statements to an approved lender on or about April 21, 2021, when he applied for a second draw PPP loan. TAYLOR received approximately $18,5000 for the second loan.

TAYLOR 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 each false statements count. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count due after conviction.

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

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NICHOLAS WEBER, age 29, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on March 16, 2023, to 120 months imprisonment, 4 years of supervised release, and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on March 29, 2022, FBI New Orleans and the New Orleans Police Department seized 143.5 grams of fentanyl, two fully loaded handguns, and $16,200 in cash from WEBER pursuant to a federal search warrant.

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

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and Louisiana State Police as part of NOPD’s Violent Crime Abatement Investigation Team (“VCAIT”).  The prosecution of this case was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit and Alexandra Giavotella, Asset Forfeiture Coordinator of the Public Integrity/Monetary Penalty and Recovery Unit.

NEW ORLEANS –KEISHAN WILSON, age 38, of New Orleans, Louisiana was sentenced on March 16, 2023, by the Honorable Eldon E. Fallon, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, for stealing items from the mail she was entrusted to handle as a postal employee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, KEISHAN WILSON was employed by the United States Postal Service as a mail processor in New Orleans when she was apprehended stealing items from the mail that she was entrusted to handle. The defendant was sentenced to (5) five years of probation. She was also ordered to pay restitution and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. The restitution hearing is set for June 8, 2023. 

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Richard R. Pickens, II of the Financial Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DARIUS DANNEL, a/k/a “DD,” and TERRELL  MOORE, a/k/a “Rell,” pled guilty to various violations of the Federal Gun Control, the Federal Controlled Substances, and Hobbs Act before the Honorable Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court  documents, DANNEL and MOORE pled guilty to Counts 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the superseding indictment.  Count 1 charged them with attempted Hobbs Act Robbery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1951 and 2. Count 2 charged them with participating in a conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute quantities of marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(D), and 846. Count 3 charged the defendants with using, carrying, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 924(c) and 2. Count 4 charged the defendants with participating in a conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(o).   

As to Count 1, DANNEL and MOORE face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release.  As to Count 2, the defendants face a maximum sentence of 5 years in prison, a fine not to exceed $250,000.00, and at least two years supervised release.  As to Count 3, the defendants face a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a maximum of life in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00, and up to five years supervised release.  The prison sentence imposed for Count 3 must be served consecutively to any other prison sentence imposed in connection with this case and any other case. Finally, as to Count 4, DANNEL and MOORE face a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, not more than a $250,000.00 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. As to each count, DANNEL and MOORE face payment of  a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

The sentencing for DANNEL and MOORE is scheduled for June 28, 2023 at 1:30 p.m.

The case stems from a shootout that occurred at the Jung Hotel.  On December 28, 2020, during an attempted armed robbery of significant amounts of marijuana, two groups engaged in a shootout in the Jung Hotel- one group who possessed the marijuana, the other group who tried to take the marijuana.  In total, over 80 shots were fired and three people were shot.  A good portion of this shootout was captured via the hotel security cameras.  DANNEL and MOORE admitted to their participation in attempting to rob the drug dealers, and discharging their firearms during the attempted robbery.  All six of the robber-perpetrators have pled guilty to their charged crimes before Judge Lemelle.  Two of the marijuana distributors have pled guilty to similar crimes before United States District Court Judge Greg. G. Guidry. Judge Guidry sentenced Clarence Santiago to 30-years imprisonment for his role in the crimes on March 7, 2023.  As part of the record, the Government introduced video surveillance of the event during Santiago’s sentencing hearing.    

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 Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crimes Unit.

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHELSE GEE, age 19, from Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty on March 15, 2023 before United States District Sarah S. Vance to a one-count bill of information charging her with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a child under the age of 14, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 1591(a).  The charges stem from GEE’S role in recruiting and bringing a thirteen-year-old female from Houston to New Orleans in June 2021  for the purpose of her engaging in commercial sex acts. 

According to court documents, GEE met her co-conspirator, Randi Lewis (a/k/a “Teddy,” a/k/a “Teddy P.”), when she was about sixteen years old.  Lewis recruited GEE to engage in commercial sex acts under his direction, and she complied.  Lewis also instituted a series of rules GEE was to follow, including how to behave, what to wear, with whom she was allowed to interact (i.e., look at and speak to), as well as how much she was expected to earn from engaging in daily commercial sex acts. Lewis routinely tracked GEE’s location using a location sharing cellular phone application.  Lewis also regularly engaged in sexual acts with GEE and used violence and threats of violence against her.

Together, Lewis and GEE met the victim, who was thirteen years old, in the Houston, Texas area not later than June 21, 2021.  GEE recruited the victim to perform commercial sex acts under Lewis’ s direction and introduced the victim to Lewis.  Lewis and GEE gave the victim instruction and guidance on matters related to successful performance of commercial sex activities, including ways to behave, what to wear, how to identify and avoid law enforcement, and how to best solicit commercial sex customers.  The victim agreed, and Lewis arranged for he, GEE, and the victim to travel to New Orleans on a Greyhound bus for the purpose of his co-conspirator and the victim to engage in commercial sex acts.  Between June 22, 2021, and June 24, 2021, GEE and the victim performed multiple commercial sex acts in the New Orleans area.  Lewis required the victim to turn over to Lewis most, if not all, of the money she earned from commercial sex acts . 

Acting at Lewis’s direction, GEE and the victim solicited commercial sex “dates” in several ways.  First, they walked along streets soliciting customers.  Additionally, Lewis created and caused to be created advertisements on an online classified ad service, commonly used to advertise sexual services in exchange for money.  Through this online ad service,  Lewis received telephone calls, text messages, and messages via social media applications inquiring about, scheduling, and arranging prostitution dates with his co-conspirator and the victim.  Lewis arranged for sexually explicit pictures of the victim to be used in the advertisements.  GEE and Lewis also gave the victim illicit and mood-altering drugs, including marijuana, to numb her senses, control her behavior, and/or to encourage her to engage in commercial sex acts.  Law enforcement authorities recovered the victim at a hotel in Terrytown, Louisiana, on June 24, 2021.      

Lewis pleaded guilty to his role in trafficking the victim in November 2022 and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 14, 2023.  GEE faces a maximum of five (5) years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to three (3) years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.  GEE may also be required to register as a sex offender and make restitution payments to the victim.  GEE’s sentencing has also been scheduled for June 14, 2023, at 10:30 am before Judge Vance.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section,  Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.  For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity and Monetary Penalty and Recovery Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RENE CLEMENT (“CLEMENT”), age 76, of Houma, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on March 15, 2023 to failing to account for and pay federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (“FICA”) taxes, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7202.

According to court documents, CLEMENT conducted a business as a limited liability company under the name Vinyl Products, LLC. Between 2014 and 2018, CLEMENT failed to account for and pay taxes associated with Vinyl Products in the amount of approximately $750,368.68. 

In pleading guilty, CLEMENT faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years. Upon release from prison, CLEMENT also faces a term of supervised release up to (3) three years, and/or a fine of $10,000 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. He also faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. The Honorable Ivan L. R. Lemelle set sentencing in this matter for June 21, 2023.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –  KATIE LAROCHE, age 54, a resident of Dallas, Texas, was sentenced on March 15, 2023 to 21 months in prison for wire fraud, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343 announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, LAROCHE created, owned, and operated a business, Capital City Consulting Firm, that purported to provide financial management services. Victim 1 was a client of LAROCHE’s, and LAROCHE was responsible for performing bookkeeping, accounting, and other financial services for Victim 1 and Victim 1’s businesses. LAROCHE had signatory authority and access to Victim 1’s bank accounts.

From about February 2015 through March 2021, LAROCHE engaged in a scheme to defraud Victim 1 and Victim 1’s businesses by withdrawing funds from Victim 1’s accounts under false pretenses and using the funds for her own benefit. Specifically, LAROCHE falsely represented that the funds were being used to pay federal income taxes.  When Victim 1 asked LAROCHE about the status of Victim 1’s tax obligations, LAROCHE lied to Victim 1 to hide her scheme. LAROCHE also arranged for monthly payments to be automatically withdrawn from Victim 1’s account without Victim 1’s knowledge or consent to pay for an automobile insurance policy benefitting someone other than Victim 1. In total, LAROCHE embezzled $233,363.53 from Victim 1.

Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced LAROCHE to 21 months in prison, a fine of $250,000, a mandatory special assessment fee of $100, (3) three years of supervised release following her term of imprisonment. A restitution hearing will be held on a later date.

“There is no tolerance in our community for criminals like Ms. LaRoche, who stole hundreds of thousands of dollars from her long-time client, betraying that client’s trust to benefit herself,” said Leslie Pichon, U.S. Secret Service New Orleans Special Agent in Charge.  “Today’s sentence demonstrates that the Secret Service will do everything it can to hold individuals like Ms. LaRoche accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Secret Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Nicholas D. Moses of the Financial Crimes Unit  and Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – THEODORE HOLMES, age 34, a resident of Plaquemines Parish, Louisiana, was sentenced on March 7, 2023, to 18 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

HOLMES previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846, and the use of a communication facility in causing or facilitating the commission of felonies under the Controlled Substances Act, in violation of  Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.

According to court documents, a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigation revealed that HOLMES was involved in a narcotics distribution conspiracy with several other co-conspirators between June 8, 2020, and June 5, 2021. As part of the conspiracy, HOLMES regularly distributed amounts of methamphetamine.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TROY SMITH (“SMITH”), age 58, of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced on March 8, 2023 for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on May 17, 2020, SMITH, along with participants Damian Labeaud (“Labeaud”), Bernell Gale (“Gale”), Marvel Francois (“Francois”), and another passenger, participated in a staged accident in the vicinity of Louisa Street and Chickasaw Street. Labeaud fled the scene after intentionally colliding with a tractor trailer. Francois falsely reported to the NOPD that she had been driving and that the tractor-trailer had struck her vehicle.

United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced SMITH to 6 months imprisonment, upon release from imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CORNEL MARTIN, SR. (“MARTIN”), age 63, of Thibodaux, Louisiana, pled guilty today to failing to account for and pay over federal income taxes and Federal Insurance Contributions Act (“FICA”) taxes, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7202.

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

MARTIN faces a maximum prison sentence of five (5) years. Upon release from prison, MARTIN faces a term of supervised release up to (3) three years, and/or a fine of $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. MARTIN also faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Susie Morgan set his sentencing for June 15, 2023.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On March 8, 2023, CHRISTIAN GUITY, age 26, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to three counts of a four-count indictment for federal drug and weapons violations, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. Count 1 charged GUITY with possession with intent to distribute a controlled dangerous substance. Count 2 charged GUITY with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Finally, Count 3 charged GUITY with possession of a machine gun. GUITY’s sentencing is set for June 7, 2023.

As to Count 1 of the indictment that charges GUITY with possession with the intent to distribute marijuana in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D), he faces a maximum sentence of 5 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and at least 2 years of supervised release. Additionally, in Count 1, GUITY is charged with possession with the intent to distribute cocaine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C).  For this charge, GUITY faces a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release. As to Count 2 that charges GUITY with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1), he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a period of up to 5 years supervised release. Finally, as to Count 3 that charges GUITY with possessing a machine gun in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o), he faces a maximum of 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. For each count of conviction, GUITY must pay 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.

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KENNETH MUSE, age 24, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on March 9, 2023, before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts. 

According to court records, MUSE admitted to being arrested after fleeing from Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies on a dirt bike for possessing a machinegun and tramadol pills he was selling. The gun MUSE possessed had been equipped with a “Glock switch,” transforming the normally semi-automatic pistol into fully automatic. MUSE admitted possessing 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. 

Sentencing is set for June 13, 2023. On the drug offense, MUSE faces up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and at least 1 year of supervised release. On the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, MUSE faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to life imprisonment which must run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release. On the felon in possession of a firearm count, MUSE faces up to ten years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.  Pursuant to the terms of his plea agreement, MUSE and the government agreed that a sentence of 15 years was an appropriate disposition of the case. 

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

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

According to the court documents, in May 2020, Rodney Vicknair, 55, while working in his capacity as an NOPD officer, escorted a then-14-year-old girl, who had been sexually assaulted by another man, to the hospital to undergo a forensic exam, also known as a rape kit. Vicknair gave the victim his cell phone number and offered to be her friend and mentor. In the months and weeks thereafter, Vicknair and the victim spoke on the phone and exchanged messages on Snapchat. Vicknair, while in uniform, often stopped by unannounced at the victim’s residence. Over time, Vicknair made comments to the victim that were sexual in nature.

On the night of Sept. 23, 2020, Vicknair arrived at the victim’s house. By that time, she had turned 15 years old. He told her to come outside and get into his vehicle. She got into the passenger’s seat while the Vicknair remained in the driver’s seat. Then, he locked the doors so that the victim could not leave. Vicknair leaned over toward the victim, and she feared for her physical safety. He then sexually assaulted the victim when he intentionally touched her genitals under her clothing without her consent. Vicknair admitted in court that he acted without a legitimate law enforcement purpose and that he knew his actions were wrong and against the law but that he engaged in such conduct anyway.

“We are grateful to this young survivor for coming forward, even though she thought no one would believe her,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Had she not been willing to do so, we would not have been able to hold the defendant accountable for his heinous crime. This case should send a strong message to law enforcement officers who sexually abuse victims, particularly children, that they are not above the law and will be held accountable.”  

“The public must be able to trust that law enforcement will faithfully execute their sworn duties or face the consequences for failing to do so,” said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Our office, along with the Department of Justice, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and state and local law enforcement agencies, will continue to investigate and prosecute any violations of constitutional rights.”

“The FBI is dedicated to doing the work to restore public faith in law enforcement when individuals attempt to use the badge to hide their illegal behavior,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “We also thank the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, and the New Orleans Police Department Public Integrity Unit for their efforts in this case.”

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans and Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams Jr. made the announcement.

The FBI New Orleans Field Office and the New Orleans Police Department Public Integrity Bureau investigated the case.

Criminal Chief Tracey Knight for the Eastern District of Louisiana and Former Special Litigation Counsel Fara Gold of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MICHAEL ALEXANDER, SR., a/k/a “Monsta,” a/k/a “Jamond,” age 40, ATRELL ANDERSON, a/k/a “Trey,” a/k/a “Trel,” a/k/a “Da Boi,” age 31, TERRELL HAYNES, a/k/a “Redman,” age 44, MICHAEL ALEXANDER, JR., a/k/a “Mike Mike,” age 22, BRANDON BAKER, age 37,  LOUIS BELLS, JR., age 22,  JERALD ALEXANDER, age 37, STAR ROBICHAUX, age 43, and JOSHUA PRINE, age 42, residents of Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, have now all pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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. The investigation spanned two years which led to the seizure of drugs, drug proceeds, and guns. In total, DEA agents seized $590,602 in U.S. currency and 10 illegal guns.

On March 9, 2023, ALEXANDER, SR. 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.

For the conspiracy charge, ALEXANDER, SR. faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, he faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 40 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least 4 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, ALEXANDER, SR. faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 5 years of supervised release. If convicted of being a felon in possession of firearms, ALEXANDER, SR. faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years supervised release. For each of the four (4) charges against him , ALEXANDER, SR. must also pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing for ALEXANDER, SR. is scheduled for June 13, 2023.   

On October 6, 2022, ANDERSON pled guilty to conspiring to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 100 grams or more of heroin. He also pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and use of a communication facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. On March 9, 2023, ANDERSON was sentenced to 188 months imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $600 mandatory special assessment fee.

On September 19, 2022, HAYNES pled guilty to conspiring to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 1 kilogram or more of heroin. He also pled guilty to distribution of methamphetamine and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. For the conspiracy count, he faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For distribution, HAYNES faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 40 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least 4 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For being a felon in possession of a firearm, HAYNES faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years supervised release. For each of the three (3) charges against him , HAYNES must also pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing for HAYNES is scheduled for April 18, 2023.

On October 19, 2022, ALEXANDER, JR. pled guilty to conspiring to distribute quantities of heroin and methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and use of a communication facility in furtherance of drug trafficking. On February 14, 2023, ALEXANDER, JR. was sentenced to 7 years imprisonment, 5 years of supervised release, and a $500 mandatory special assessment fee.

On January 18, 2023, JERALD ALEXANDER pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm. For the marijuana offenses, he faces up to 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and at least 2 years of supervised release. For possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, ALEXANDER faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years  up to life imprisonment, to run consecutive to any other sentence,  up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 5 years of supervised release. For being a felon in possession of a firearm, he faces a maximum of ten years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. For each of the four (4) charges against him, ALEXANDER must also pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing for ALEXANDER is scheduled for April 18, 2023.

On August 2, 2022, BELLS pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. On October 25, 2022, BELLS was sentenced to 71 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

On October 4, 2022, BAKER pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute quantities of heroin and methamphetamine. On February 28, 2023, he was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

On September 14, 2022, ROBICHAUX pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 1 kilogram or more of heroin. On October 18, 2022, PRINE pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 1 kilogram or more of heroin. Both ROBICHAUX and PRINE  face a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Sentencing for ROBICHAUX is scheduled for April 25, 2023 and sentencing for PRINE is scheduled for June 13, 2023.

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

This case 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, Hammond Police Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office, St. Tammany Parish 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, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ALINE JAMES, a/k/a “Aline Foster” (“JAMES”), age 50, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on March 10, 2023 for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.

According to the indictment, beginning in or around September 2012, and continuing until in or around December 2020, JAMES collected approximately $88,298.00 in Social Security Administration and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES ACT”) funds to which she was not entitled.  

If convicted, JAMES faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years of imprisonment, up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that DONDRE MORGAN, (“MORGAN”), age 31, of Houma, LA, was indicted on March 10, 2023 on two (2) counts of Mail Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341 and one (1) count of Making False Statements to Federal Agents in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001(a)(2).

According to the indictment, MORGAN, Sharnae Every, MORGAN’S girlfriend, and others  defrauded the SBA and other designated financial institutions of approximately $1,142,041.00 through the submission of approximately 110 fraudulent PPP loan applications. As part of the scheme  to defraud , Every recruited friends and family members primarily via Facebook to send Every their personal and bank information in exchange for "free money." MORGAN also assisted in recruiting various friends and family members by speaking with them in person or texting them, telling them to contact Every.

Every charged the individuals she recruited anywhere from $45.00 to $120.00 to prepare and submit the fraudulent PPP application. Every primarily used Cash App. to receive the initial payments. Every then charged $3,500.00 once the loans were funded and received these funds into her Current account, her Cash App account, or into MORGAN’s Current account.

On September 9, 2022, Every was indicted by a federal grand jury for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud and Mail Fraud. On March 2, 2023, Every pled guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 8, 2023 by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier.

If convicted, MORGAN faces a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years per count for Counts 1 and 2 and five (5) years for Count 3, followed by a term of supervised release for up to three (3) years, a fine up to $250,000.00 per count, or twice the gross gain to the defendant, or twice the gross loss to any victim, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee per count.

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.

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. The Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General, is an active member of the PRAC Fraud Task Force.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Department of Veteran Affairs, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; and the United States Secret Service’s Cyber Fraud Task Force, consisting of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Thibodeaux Police Department, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant United States Attorney Edward Rivera, COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator; and Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the Civil Division.

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MELISSA KING (“KING”), age 53, of Hammond, Louisiana, was indicted on March 10, 2023 for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.

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

If convicted, KING faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years of imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SEAN BRIGGS, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on February 28, 2023 by U.S. District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter to fifty-one (51) months of incarceration after pleading guilty as charged to a one-count indictment, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans. Judge Vitter ordered that BRIGGS  be placed on supervised release for three (3) years following his release from imprisonment. BRIGGS was also ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. 

Count 1 charged BRIGGS with possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D).

According to court  records, on May 4, 2022, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents were conducting surveillance near the intersection of Reverend John Raphael and Josephine Streets, in New Orleans, LA. Agents observed BRIGGS engaging in suspected hand-to-hand drug transactions. A New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) Real Time Crime Camera (RTCC) was also operational in the area and  surveilled BRIGGS. The RTCC camera captured BRIGGS holding a bag of narcotics and dealing fentanyl to a passenger of a vehicle.

BRIGGS had previously plead guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime at the same intersection in 2018 and received an eighty (80) month federal sentence. BRIGGS was dealing drugs in 2022 only months after his release while under  supervision by Federal Probation and Parole Agents.

As agents began driving towards BRIGGS, he noticed them and  walked away briskly. Agents saw BRIGGS tuck a bag with a white substance under his arm and run. As agents approached BRIGGS, they saw him throw a baseball sized bag of drugs from his person.

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 New Orleans Police Department in this matter. The case    was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crime Unit  .

NEW ORLEANS – DARLIN AMINADAK BANEGAS-CRUZ, a/k/a “Darlis Mindak Banegas-Cruz,” age 28, was indicted on March 10, 2023 for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the indictment, DARLIN AMINADAK BANEGAS-CRUZ, (“BANEGAS-CRUZ”) reentered the United States after being previously deported on October 30, 2019. If convicted, BANEGAS-CRUZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. He faces a sentencing enhancement of 10 years because of a prior felony conviction.

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

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 is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – KIDUS AWLACHEW, age 33, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Jay Zainey after previously being charged in a one-count bill of information with international parental kidnapping, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1204, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

According to court records, AWLACHEW and Person 1, an adult female, began dating in about 2018. Soon thereafter, Person 1 and her daughter, Minor Victim, moved into AWLACHEW’S residence. Between 2018 and January 2022, AWLACHEW often voluntarily acted in a parental capacity toward Minor Victim .

In about December 2021, AWLACHEW told Person 1 that he wanted to take Minor Victim to Ethiopia to experience a different culture for about one month. Based on those representations, Person 1 agreed. In fact, AWLACHEW intended to keep Minor Victim in Ethiopia for more than one month.

Thereafter, AWLACHEW purchased tickets for he and Minor Victim to travel to Ethiopia on January 14, 2022, and to return on February 21, 2022. AWLACHEW and Minor Victim did not return on February 21. On numerous occasions, Person 1 inquired why AWLACHEW had not returned with Minor Victim and to demand that he do so. AWLACHEW either ignored the inquiries or provided a false justification for not returning. Moreover, AWLACHEW usually did not allow Person 1 to correspond directly with Minor Victim. 

Law enforcement authorities recovered Minor Victim from AWLACHEW’S custody in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and took AWLACHEW into custody, on July 20, 2022. United States law enforcement authorities arranged for Minor Victim to be returned to New Orleans and reunited with her mother. AWLACHEW was returned to the United States on August 24, 2022.    

AWLACHEW faces up to three years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to one year of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Sentencing before Judge Zainey has been scheduled for June 13, 2023, at 10:30 am.

"The ending in this case might have been much different without the coordination and cooperation between national and international partners," said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams, Jr. "We thank the Louisiana State Police, the State Department, our fellow agents in Addis Ababa, and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for bringing this case to a swift and positive conclusion."

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Department of State, and Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. U.S. Attorney Evans also expressed appreciation for the cooperation provided by the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS-JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA, a/k/a “Fernando A. Lopez,” a/k/a “Juan C. Martinez,” a/k/a “Oscar Flores,” a/k/a “Martin Peralta,” a/k/a “Juan Castaneda,” age 54, pled guilty on March 9, 2023 to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to documents filed in court and signed by him, JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA (“MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA”) admitted reentering the United States after being previously deported on February 3, 2003. MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 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 is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ELTON JOHN MEJIA EUCEDA, age 22, a citizen of Honduras, pled guilty yesterday to illegally using a social security number belonging to another individual, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B), announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans

According to documents filed in federal court, the defendant used a social security number belonging to another individual to secure employment with a local business. The defendant pled guilty before United States District Judge Susie Morgan and was sentenced to one year of probation and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. 

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

NEW ORLEANS – NORMAN GARCIA- GARCIA(“GARCIA-GARCIA”), age 24, was sentenced on March 7, 2023 for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, GARCIA-GARCIA admitted to reentering the United States after being previously deported on February 23, 2018. GARCIA-GARCIA was sentenced by the Honorable Susie Morgan, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, to time served, which was over four months.

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. is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – QUAN LEWIS, age 27, a resident of Gonzales, Louisiana, pled guilty on March 8, 2023 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(A), and 846, and two counts of possession with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, in January 2020, a Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office narcotics agent received information from a confidential source that Eric Rodriguez was routinely driving from Jefferson Parish to the Prairieville/Gonzales, Louisiana area to purchase methamphetamine.  On January 20, 2020, agents learned that Rodriguez traveled to Gonzales where he remained for approximately fifteen minutes before returning to the Jefferson Parish area.  Agents conducted an investigatory stop of Rodriguez in Westwego, Louisiana and recovered approximately 444 grams of methamphetamine from his vehicle. Agents determined that Rodriguez obtained the methamphetamine from LEWIS.  A search of Rodriguez’s telephone revealed several text messages between Rodriguez and LEWIS in which they negotiated several drug transactions with each other.

To further their investigation, on August 11, 2020,  Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office narcotics agents used a confidential source to purchase methamphetamine from LEWIS.  Under the direction of the agents, the confidential source contacted LEWIS and they agreed to meet at a convenience store in Gonzales where LEWIS sold the confidential source one pound of methamphetamine with 97% purity. 

For the conspiracy count, LEWIS faces a minimum term of imprisonment of ten years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of at least five years. For the possession with intent to distribute counts, LEWIS faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and a term of supervised release of at least four years.  At sentencing, LEWIS must pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 for each count.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Department.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On March 8, 2023 United States Senior District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced JOHNNY WALSH, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, to serve 64 months in prison for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

According to court records, WALSH pleaded guilty to two different counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one from March 2022 and the other from August 2022.  During each incident, WALSH had a handgun with a 50 round drum magazine attached.

Judge Lemelle ordered that WALSH serve 64 months on each count, with the sentences to be run concurrently.  WALSH will also be placed on supervised release for three years after his release from prison.  Judge Lemelle also ordered WALSH to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 per count.

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

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

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NEW ORLEANS – On March 8, 2023, United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced SEAN ESPRIT, age 27, of New Orleans, to serve 15 years in federal prison for violations of the Controlled Substances Act and the Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

According to court records, ESPRIT admitted to jointly possessing with the intent to distribute over a kilogram of heroin, over 400 grams of fentanyl, and a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846.  ESPRIT also admitted to jointly possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(ii).  The drug count carried a mandatory minimum penalty of at least 10 years, and the gun charge added an additional mandatory minimum 5 years that had to run consecutive to any other count.

ESPRIT will also have to serve 5 years on supervised release when he finishes serving his prison sentence.  Judge Lemelle also ordered Esprit to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 per count.

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – SANTOS RAMOS-CASTILLO, a/k/a “Santos Ramos-Espinoza”, age 36, was sentenced on March 8, 2023 for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) on March 8, 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, SANTOS RAMOS-CASTILLO (“RAMOS-CASTILLO”) admitted reentering the United States after being previously deported on November 16, 2015. He had been deported three times prior to the fourth removal. RAMOS-CASTILLO was sentenced by the Honorable Ivan L. R. Lemelle, U.S. District Judge, Eastern District of Louisiana, to time served, which was over 6 months.

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 is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – CLARENCE SANTIAGO, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry to 30 years in jail for his participation in a December 28, 2020, shootout at the Jung Hotel on Canal Street, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. 

SANTIAGO was sentenced to Counts 1, 2, 3, and 4 of the indictment, which charges him with conspiring to possess firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime (Count 1); using, carrying and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime (Count 2); conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana (Count 3); and illegally maintaining a drug involved premises (Count 4).

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

The case was investigated by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and New Orleans Police Department.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Unit Chief of Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – PAUL THOMAS, age 34, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on March 2, 2023 by United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

THOMAS had previously admitted to possessing a Glock pistol with an extended magazine and an AR-15 style rifle with double drum magazines at an auto-body shop he operated on Clark Street in New Orleans.  New Orleans Police Department officers had conducted a search of the shop during a murder investigation.  The officers found a .357 handgun, four rifles, a shotgun, four Glock .40 caliber handguns, several magazines, three digital scales, and various cell phones.   

Judge Fallon sentenced THOMAS to 49 months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by three years of supervised release after his term of imprisonment.  Judge Fallon also ordered THOMAS to pay a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 and ordered that the guns he had possessed be forfeited to the United States. 

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 New Orleans Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that defendant, RICHARD JONES, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced  on February 28, 2023 by U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry to a total term of 180 months.  As to Counts 1, 3, and 6 of the indictment pending against him, the Court sentenced JONES to 120 months of imprisonment, to be served concurrently with each other. As to Count 2, JONES was sentenced to a term of 60 months, to be served consecutively to the terms imposed for Counts 1, 3, and 6. Additionally, upon release from imprisonment, Judge Guidry ordered that JONES  be placed on supervised release for a term of 5 years, consisting of 3 years as to each of Counts 1, 3, and 6 and 5 years as to Count 2, such terms to run concurrently. Finally, JONES was ordered to pay a total $400 mandatory special assessment fee for Counts 1, 2, 3, and 6 of the six-count indictment.

Count One charged JONES with carjacking, in  violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). Count Two charged JONES with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, that is, a carjacking, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A). Count Three charged JONES with burglary of a federal firearms licensee, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(u).  Finally, Count Six charged JONES with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g) and 924(a)(2).

JONES pled guilty to a carjacking which occurred on April 16, 2020, in New Orleans, LA. after admitting that he and a co-defendant, while armed with a firearm, took the vehicle from the victim.  Additionally, on April 17, 2020, deputies with St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at C&S Gun Parlor in Covington, LA, a federal firearm licensee, and discovered that a truck had rammed the front entrance.   Surveillance video footage revealed that a pick-up truck had driven through the entrance of the business.   Thereafter, three individuals were seen, exiting the vehicle and throwing forty-five weapons that they had stolen from the store into the bed of the truck. JONES was identified as one of these participants. Eventually, JONES was arrested in New Orleans and found to be in illegal possession of a firearm. 

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

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

NEW ORLEANS – CLEMENT LEACH, age 52, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted on  one count of Bank Robbery in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to the indictment, on Monday, March 2, 2020, LEACH robbed Chase Bank and obtained approximately $920. If convicted, LEACH faces a maximum of twenty years in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release following his release from prison and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crime Task Force and officers of New Orleans Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon M. Maestri of the General Crimes Unit  is handling the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LENDELL WALLACE, age 39, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, was sentenced on March 2, 2023, to 12 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee by U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier, after pleading guilty to a two-count indictment which charged him with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute tramadol and possession with intent to distribute tramadol, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(E), and 846, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, 800 dosage units of tramadol were seized from WALLACE’s residence pursuant to a search warrant. The investigation revealed that on multiple occasions WALLACE had tramadol mailed to his home from Singapore. He then distributed and conspired with others to distribute the tramadol.

This case was investigated by St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, United States Postal Inspection Service, and United States Customs and Border Protection. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JOSHUA BOGEN, age 31, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, pled guilty on March 1, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii), felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1), and assaulting a federal officer, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(b), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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

For possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, BOGEN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  For brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the commission of a drug trafficking offense, BOGEN faces a statutory minimum sentence of seven years of imprisonment, up to life, to run consecutive with any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release.  For being a felon in possession of a firearm, BOGEN faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.  For assaulting a federal officer, BOGEN faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years supervised release.  For each of the four counts, BOGEN faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.  

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