Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that DANNY L. LETARD (“LETARD”), age 57, of Hammond, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Theft of Government Funds, announced United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser.

According to documents filed in federal court, beginning in 1989, LETARD filed for and later became eligible for Social Security Administration (“SSA”) disability benefits of approximately $2,177.30 per month. During this period, LETARD formed a number of businesses including, but not limited to, Excavation/Dozer Company, Virginia Shop Site Cleaning Services, Virginia’s Job Site Cleaning, Virginia Cleaning Services, and R & D Dozer Excavation & Pipe Fabr.  LETARD’s businesses were registered in the names of LETARD’s family members rather than in his name to conceal his employment. LETARD’s businesses performed demolition work and the cleaning of job sites according to occupational license applications filed with Tangipahoa Parish. LETARD also operated heavy construction equipment as part of his businesses.  On October 24, 2017, LETARD was interviewed by agents with the SSA Office of Inspector General and the Louisiana State Police. In his post-Miranda interview, LETARD told the agents he concealed his SSA benefits through third party companies “so y’all wouldn’t find out about it.” Accordingly, LETARD fraudulently received approximately $242,000.00 in Social Security Administration disability benefits he was not entitled to due to his employment.

U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced LETARD to 5 years of probation and restitution to the Social Security Administration in the amount of $242,308.20.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General and the Louisiana State Police.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that STERLING ADAMS, age 48, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on February 27, 2020, to being in possession of a firearm after being convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(9) and 924(a)(2). 

According to the court records, between July 3, 2014 and January 31, 2015, STERLING ADAMS possessed a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber firearm after having previously been convicted of a domestic-violence related misdemeanor offense. 

ADAMS faces a sentence of up to 10 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this case. 

Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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NEW ORLEANS - The United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana announced that DARREN M. MARTIN, age 44, a resident of Madisonville, Louisiana, was charged on February 20, 2020 with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. 

According to the Indictment, MARTIN was a licensed pharmacist in the State of Louisiana who owned Willow Pharmacy, Inc. (“Willow), which was located in Madisonville, Louisiana.  Between 2012 and 2015, Willow operated as a closed-door pharmacy that was in the business of mixing and filling prescriptions for compounded medications that were reimbursed by health care benefit programs, including Blue Cross & Blue Shield (“Blue Cross”).  In 2012, MARTIN, on behalf of Willow, executed a provider agreement with CVS Caremark (“CVS”), a pharmacy benefit manager for Blue Cross.  Under the terms of the agreement, Willow agreed to collect copayments from Blue Cross-covered patients and further agreed that it would not waive a copayment unless authorized by CVS to do so. 

According to the Indictment, in or around June 2014, CVS notified Willow that Willow was the subject of an audit.  At around the same time, to conceal the fact that Willow had not collected copayments for the claims at issue in the audit, Willow, through MARTIN, contracted with Joseph L. Wiley, II (“Wiley”) of Monroe, Louisiana and his company Affordable Medication Solutions, LLC (“AMS”).  The purpose of the contract was to make it appear that Willow collected the copayments at issue in the CVS audit through AMS, a purported secondary payer.  Between 2014 and 2015, as it conducted its audit, CVS requested information from Willow substantiating that AMS collected copayments on behalf of Willow for $567,710.39 worth of claims at issue in the CVS audit.

In actuality, according to the Indictment, AMS never collected copayments for Willow.  Had CVS known that Willow had not collected copayments from Blue Cross-covered patients, it would have terminated Willow’s provider agreement.  To conceal the fact that Willow had not collected copayments, Wiley created false documents, including copies of backdated checks and remittance advices, for certain of the claims at issue purporting to show that AMS collected copayments for Willow and sent those documents to MARTIN. Despite knowing that AMS had not collected copayments for Willow, MARTIN caused false statements to be made to CVS indicating that AMS had collected copayments for the claims at issue in the CVS audit for Willow.

If convicted, MARTIN faces a possible maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, up to three years of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.  The United States Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana stated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The prosecution of the case is being handled by Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McHugh.

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that MUHAMMAD ARSHAD, age 64, a resident of Harvey, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 20, 2020 by U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to three years’ probation, which includes 250 hours of community service, in connection with his guilty plea to conspiracy to commit health care fraud.  In addition, ARSHAD was fined $23,500 and agreed to pay restitution to the Medicare program. 

According to court records, ARSHAD admitted that, between November 2011 and March 2013, in return for accepting illegal health care kickbacks, he referred beneficiaries who he treated at a Louisiana-based psychiatric facility for medically unnecessary home health services and further fraudulently certified that the beneficiaries were eligible to receive such services.  ARSHAD admitted that he accepted $1,500 a month from Progressive Home Health Care, Inc. (“Progressive”), which were disguised kickback payments for the referrals.  Progressive then submitted the fraudulent claims to Medicare.  Progressive was reimbursed approximately $225,211 by Medicare for the medically unnecessary home health services.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Department of Health and Human Services for their work investigating the case.  The prosecution of the case is being handled by Jared Hasten, Katherine Payerle, and Claire Yan of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that HECTOR SILVA-TOLENTINO, age 29, pleaded guilty on February 18, 2020 to a one-count Bill of Information for illegal use of a social security number in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

According to the bill of information, HECTOR SILVA-TOLENTINO (“SILVA”), presented a false identification document in order to obtain a Louisiana Driver’s License in Napoleonville, Louisiana.  SILVA used the driver’s license to obtain employment on offshore oilrigs. 

SILVA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.  Judge Jane Triche Milazzo scheduled sentencing for March 18, 2020.    

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General and the United States Border Patrol in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that defendant PRENTISS CRAFT, 29 years of age, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced on Thursday, February 20, 2020 by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to being in receipt of a firearm while under indictment.

CRAFT pled guilty on November 14, 2019, to being in receipt of a firearm while under indictment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(n) and 924(a)(1)(D). 

Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced CRAFT to 60 months in the Bureau of Prisons, as well as 3 years supervised release following the term of imprisonment.This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.  Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

U. S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the New Orleans Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Liz Privitera. 

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that JEFFERY JOSEPH, age 25, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on February 20, 2020 before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to charges related to his participation in a credit card fraud ring.

According to court documents, JOSEPH and the other defendants engaged in a scheme to obtain merchandise and cash from stores through fraud.  The defendants obtained stolen credit and debit card information, encoded it onto cards, and then used that information to purchase items at stores.  The defendants would then return the items at a different store of the same chain, but they would deceive store workers in order to have the chargeback credited to their own bank accounts.  Court documents also detail how JOSEPH took flights with several other co-conspirators to perform fraudulent credit card transactions in various cities in the United States, including St. Louis, Missouri; Richmond, Virginia; Nashville, Tennessee; Portland, Oregon; Milwaukee, Wisconsin; and Cincinnati, Ohio.  JOSEPH was also arrested in Minnetonka, Minnesota, and Franklin, Tennessee, while committing credit card fraud.

Federal agents located social media posts by JOSEPH that further established the fraud.  For example, a July 2018 Instagram post showed JOSEPH sitting on the hood of a Mercedes with the caption, “I’m living proof that crime do pay.”  Another post by JOSEPH in September 2018 showed him in Atlanta with the caption “only ducking indictments,” just six days after two of JOSEPH’S co-conspirators had been arrested.  In his plea documents, JOSEPH admitted that he caused between $250,000.00 and $550,000.00 in losses through his own conduct and that of his co-conspirators.

JOSEPH pleaded guilty to three counts of the Third Superseding Indictment.  He pleaded to one count of conspiracy to commit access device fraud, for which he faces a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment.  He pleaded to one count of aggravated identity theft, for which he must be sentenced to two years of imprisonment to be served consecutively with any other count.  He also pleaded to one count of possession of access device-making equipment, which carries a maximum sentence of fifteen years in prison.  Each count also carries a maximum fine of $250,000.00, or twice the gross gain or gross loss caused by this scheme.  Sentencing is set for May 28, 2020, before Judge Ashe.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the agencies that contributed to this conviction, which represents a coordinated effort of federal and state law enforcement authorities within the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force.  The Task Force includes representatives from the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, Covington Police Department, Hammond Police Department, Kenner Police Department, Louisiana State Police, Mandeville Police Department, Slidell Police Department, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John The Baptist Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. State Department, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.  U.S. Attorney Strasser also thanked the Franklin (TN) Police Department, the Mobile Police Department, the Gulfport Police Department, the Minnetonka (MN) Police Department, the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office, and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance.  Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew R. Payne and K. Paige O’Hale are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that AARON JEFFREY DENN, age 35, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana was sentenced on February 18, 2020 by U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey in connection with his guilty plea to conspiracy to distribute oxycodone to three years’ probation, with conditions that the first 12 months be served on home confinement and that DENN perform 100 hours of community service.  Judge Zainey additionally imposed a fine of $6,000. 

According to court documents, between March and April 2019, DENN admitted to conspiring to distribute oxycodone pills, which he obtained unlawfully on the black market.  DENN admitted to selling oxycodone pills and charging approximately $25 to $35 per pill.  On April 4, 2019, DENN admitted to selling pills for approximately $6,000.  According to court documents, unbeknownst to DENN, those pills contained a mixture of heroin and tramadol.  Additionally, DENN agreed to forfeit approximately $62,002.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office for their work investigating the case. 

The case is being prosecuted by Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant United States Attorney Myles Ranier. 

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that DAVID RODRIGUEZ, age 49, a resident of Miami, Florida, was sentenced on Wednesday, February 19, 2020, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of medical products and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.

RODRIGUEZ was sentenced to 36 months imprisonment with credit for time served, supervised release for a term of 3 years, and a $200.00 special assessment. RODRIGUEZ was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $203,000.

According to court documents, beginning sometime prior to December 2012, RODRIGUEZ and others conspired to use Marea Distributors and Logistics, LLC, in Louisiana and Marea Distributors, LLC, in Florida to re-sell fraudulently diverted pharmaceuticals.  Working together, the defendants would collect dispensed drugs of known and unknown origin, counterfeit drugs, expired drugs, and drugs not authorized for resale and then fraudulently reintroduce them into the pre-retail, wholesale market for eventual sale under false pretenses to pharmacies and end users.  As part of the conspiracy, the defendants created false invoices and documents of origin that were transmitted by wire to their customers. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Food and Drug Administration, and the Miami Dade Police Department, in investigating this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Theodore R. Carter, III, and David Haller.

NEW ORLEANS – Drug Enforcement Administration Acting Administrator Uttam Dhillon today announced the DEA will direct enforcement resources to methamphetamine "transportation hubs" — areas where methamphetamine is often trafficked in bulk and then distributed across the country. While continuing to focus on stopping drugs being smuggled across the border, DEA’s Operation Crystal Shield will ramp up enforcement to block their further distribution into America’s neighborhoods.

DEA has identified eight major methamphetamine transportation hubs where these efforts will be concentrated: Atlanta, Dallas, El Paso, Houston, Los Angeles, New Orleans, Phoenix, and St. Louis. Together, these DEA Field Divisions accounted for more than 75 percent of methamphetamine seized in the U.S. in 2019.

Operation Crystal Shield builds on existing DEA initiatives that target major drug trafficking networks, including the Mexican cartels that are responsible for the overwhelming majority of methamphetamine trafficked into and within the United States. DEA domestic seizures of methamphetamine increased 127 percent from 49,507 pounds to 112,146 pounds from FY 2017 to FY 2019. During the same time frame, the number of DEA arrests related to methamphetamine rose nearly twenty percent.

"For decades, methamphetamine has been a leading cause of violence and addiction – a drug threat that has never gone away," said Acting Administrator Dhillon. "With a 22 percent increase in methamphetamine-related overdose deaths, now is the time to act, and DEA is leading the way with a surge of interdiction efforts and resources, targeting regional transportation hubs throughout the United States. By reducing the supply of meth, we reduce the violence, addiction, and death it spreads."

DEA New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley said, "Methamphetamine destroys lives and is one of the primary drivers of violence across the nation, including here in our four-state region. Operation Crystal Shield will build on DEA’s ongoing

efforts to hold meth dealers accountable. We will continue to seize their profits, shut down their distribution networks, and put dealers where they belong – behind bars. By continuing to target local distribution networks in this transportation hub, DEA and our federal, state and local law enforcement partners are working to reduce violent crime and improve the quality of life for the citizens in our area and beyond."

"Methamphetamine is a treacherous drug and this enforcement operation demonstrates the arduous work of our law enforcement partners in their efforts to weaken its destructive impact on our communities," said Peter G. Strasser, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana. "Our Office remains committed to employing all available resources to combat this menace. We, along with the DEA New Orleans Division, state and local law enforcement partners will continue to vigorously pursue the investigation and prosecution of these important cases and continue working together to make our communities safer."

The DEA New Orleans Field Division, which covers Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Arkansas, is seeing a significant increase in the amount of methamphetamine seized, up 58 percent in the last year. As a transportation hub, we are committed to using all our enforcement resources to attack this problem. Specifically, we are enhancing our interdiction efforts, which target transportation hub facilities utilized by the drug trafficking networks. Further, we have assigned additional personnel, to include more Task Force Officers, to focus on interdiction investigations.

Virtually all methamphetamine in the United States comes through major ports of entry along the Southwest Border and is transported by tractor trailers and personal vehicles along the nation’s highways to major transfer centers around the country. It is often found in poly-drug loads, alongside cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl.

Parents and children are encouraged to educate themselves about the dangers of drugs by visiting DEA’s interactive websites at www.JustThinkTwice.com , www.GetSmartAboutDrugs.com  and www.dea.gov .

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that BERNARD BAKER, an Orleans Parish resident, pled guilty as charged on February 18, 2020 to a one-count indictment for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1).

At sentencing, BAKER faces up to a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safe for everyone.  PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Melissa Bücher of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that CARLOS MARIO CANTU-COX, age 48, and his husband, CHRISTOPHER CANTU-COX, age 37, both of Pasadena, Texas, pleaded guilty on Tuesday, February 4, 2020 for distributing ketamine that resulted in the death of a Slidell, Louisiana teenager.  The eighteen year old’s dead body was found floating in a Texas bayou.

As described in court documents, the CANTU-COXES were large-scale methamphetamine suppliers to the Houston and New Orleans area.  One of their customers was an eighteen year old from Slidell, Louisiana, who frequently traveled to Texas to stay at their home.  During one of these visits, the teenager was arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm and the CANTU-COXES posted his $6000 bond.

The teenager did not appear for his Texas court appearances and the CANTU-COXES told their New Orleans customers that they wanted the teenager so they could transport him back to Texas and recover their bond.  Williams Harrison Farris, age 39, a New Orleans-based methamphetamine dealer and user who was supplied by the CANTU-COXES learned that the couple was looking for the teenager and were offering free methamphetamine to anyone who successfully led them to him.

Farris had previously dated Kacie Doucet, aged 37, another New Orleans-based drug user.  Farris knew that Doucet was connected to the teenager on Facebook.  At the direction of Farris, Doucet contacted the teenager over Facebook on multiple occasions and suggested that they meet for a sexual encounter.  Farris and Doucet enlisted the help of Leilani Aspuria, age 25, of Jefferson Parish, the only one of the three with a car.

The CANTU-COXES were aware that Doucet’s offer of a sexual encounter with the teenager was a ruse, and that the real purpose of picking up the teenager in Slidell at his grandfather’s house was to provide him with a cocktail of powerful drugs and thus render him incapacitated so he could be delivered to the CANTU-COXES who were staying at a hotel in downtown New Orleans.  The CANTU-COXES supplied the drug cocktail, which contained ketamine, as well as instructions on how to mix the drugs with alcohol so that it could be administered to the teenager without him knowing what he was taking.

Doucet and Aspuria picked up the teenager on February 23, 2016 and gave him the CANTU-COXES’s drug cocktail, which the couple referred to as an “elixir.”  Eventually, the teenager passed out, at which point Doucet and Aspuria drove to the parking garage of Harrah’s Casino in New Orleans.  Farris had been following Doucet and Aspuria on his motorcycle.  The teenager’s body was then transferred to the CANTU-COXES’ car.  The CANTU-COXES then drove back to Texas, with the teenager passed out in their back seat. 

Somewhere near the Louisiana-Texas border, the CANTU-COXES realized that the teenager was no longer breathing.  The CANTU-COXES continued driving to their home in Pasadena, Texas and parked in their driveway.  Because it was still daylight, they left the teenager’s body in the car.  At nightfall, the CANTU-COXES drove to a bridge over Sims Bayou in the Houston area and put the teenager’s body into the bayou.  The teenager’s body washed to the shore of Sims Bayou a week later.  The CANTU-COXES later paid Farris a quantity of methamphetamine for his efforts in capturing the teenager. 

U.S. District Court Judge Wendy B. Vitter will sentence the CANTU-COXES on May 5, 2020.   The CANTU-COXES face up to twenty years in prison.   Farris, Doucet, and Aspuria have all plead guilty to the same charge.  U.S District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced Aspuria to ten years of imprisonment on February 7, 2020.  Farris will be sentenced on March 18, 2020.  Doucet will be sentenced on April 8, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana State Police, Houston Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant United States Attorneys David Howard Sinkman and Brandon S. Long and are in charge of the prosecution.      

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On February 11, 2020, United States District Judge Susie Morgan sentenced GARRETT ROTH, age 27, a resident of Kenner, to fifty-one months in the Bureau of Prisons for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of the Federal Gun Control Act announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.

Roth was charged on August 13, 2018 in a one-count bill of information with possessing a Taurus, 9 mm semi-automatic pistol while being an unlawful user of and addicted to heroin.  ROTH will serve 51 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

U. S. Attorney Peter Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller.

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NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that SONOVAH JUDITH HILLMAN, age 29, a resident of Hercules, California, pleaded guilty on February 13, 2020 to Count One of a two-count Indictment charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 1349, before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo.

According to court documents, HILLMAN acted as a “money mule” in a scheme to victimize Victim A, a floating crane and stevedore Victim headquartered in Convent, Louisiana, within the Eastern District of Louisiana.  HILLMAN and her co-conspirator(s) engaged in a “business email compromise” (BEC) scheme.  They accomplished their scheme by obtaining access without authorization to the email accounts of one or more employees of Victim A for the purpose of obtaining private data, including usernames, passwords, bank account information, and the content of email accounts through a “phishing” scam.  After gaining access to an email account of a Victim A employee, the individual(s) arranged to have emails in the account forwarded to a separate email account under their control.   Thereafter, HILLMAN’s co-conspirators registered a domain name similar to Victim A’s domain (for example, “Victin A” instead of “Victim A”) and, pretending to be representatives of Victim A, sent emails to Victim A’s customers, including Victim B.  The false emails stated that there had been an audit of Victim A’s bank accounts and that Victim A’s customers should remit funds owed to Victim A to a new bank account.  

On about May 10, 2017, HILLMAN’s co-conspirators contacted one of Victim A’s customers (Victim B) via email and, pretending to be employees of Victim A, instructed that Victim B should remit funds owed to Victim A, approximately $92,007.85, to a Bank of America account that belonged to HILLMAN.  After Victim B sent the funds to HILLMAN’s account, HILLMAN engaged in a series of transactions over the next five days to transfer the money to others, withdraw over $40,000 in cash, and spend ill-gotten money on personal items, including vacations and airline flights. 

HILLMAN faces a maximum term of twenty (20) 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.  Sentencing before Judge Milazzo has been scheduled for June 3, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Coast Guard Investigative Service.  Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, supervisor of the Public Corruption Unit, is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that TERRELL RICHARDSON (“RICHARDSON”), age 36, of New Orleans, pled guilty to being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm in violation of 18 U.S.C.§ 922(g)(1).  RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, up to $250,000 in fines, up to three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s deputies stopped RICHARDSON after he committed a traffic violation on N. Causeway Blvd. in Metairie, Louisiana.  Law enforcement smelled marijuana and proceeded to search RICHARSON’s vehicle.  They discovered a reportedly stolen and loaded, SCCY Industries Model CPX-2, nine-millimeter caliber semi-automatic firearm, bearing serial number 192060.  RICHARDSON possessed the firearm after having been convicted on January 22, 2002 of a federal felony offense.  The court set sentencing in this matter for May 13, 2020.  RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a maximum $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee. 

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This matter was handled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the case. 

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that RANDY JONAL SCHENCK (a/k/a RuRu, a/k/a “Shaq”), age 38, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on February 7, 2020 by a federal grand jury in a 12-count Indictment with interstate transportation and use of an interstate facility with intent to carry on unlawful activity, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1952(a)(2), (a)(3) (Counts 1 through 6), wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343 (Counts 7 through 8), sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1591 (Count 9), transportation of an individual to engage in prostitution, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2421 (Counts 10 through 11), and aggravated identity theft, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1028A (Count 12).

According to the Indictment, SCHENCK met Dominique Berry in New Orleans in about early 2013 and soon developed a romantic relationship.  Thereafter, Berry began working for an escort agency under SCHECNK’s supervision, often engaging in prostitution activities.  SCHENCK and Berry travelled nationally engaging in their prostitution scheme, including California, Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas, Arizona, Tennessee, and Georgia.  SCHENCK and Berry posted advertisements containing photographs of Berry on multiple location-specific online classified ad service websites and social media applications that invited interested individuals to contact Berry to schedule sexual interactions, many of which were explicitly commercial.  In the advertisements, Berry had multiple aliases, including “Desiree Knowles,” “Jasmine Collins,” and “Stephanie.”  

As part of the scheme, SCHENCK caused Berry to arrange “out call” dates with customers at their residences.  Once there, at SCHENCK’s direction, Berry spiked the beverages of customers, causing them to become incapacitated.  Once unconscious, SCHENCK and Berry would steal the victims’ valuables.  SCHENCK threatened, slapped, struck, beat, and choked Berry for the purpose of establishing dominion over her, controlling her behavior, and ensuring her compliance with his instructions.  These aggressive acts usually occurred when SCHENCK believed Berry was not performing her role effectively, was not stealing enough, was not inclined to work, or tried to leave SCHENCK.

Between at least late 2013 and September 2017, SCHENCK and Berry implemented the scheme numerous times throughout the United States, including in California, Arizona, New Mexico, Texas, Louisiana, and Georgia.  SCHENCK and Berry were arrested at a hotel in Sandy Springs, Georgia, on September 13, 2017.  When law enforcement authorities found Berry at the hotel, she was bleeding from her nose, had a swollen lip and puncture consistent with her teeth biting through her lip, and black electrical tape around one of her arms.

According to the Indictment, on about February 24, 2017, Berry met S.A., a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, through a social media application.  After exchanging text messages and phone calls, Berry and S.A. agreed to meet at S.A.’s apartment.  Thereafter, SCHENCK dropped Berry off at S.A.’s apartment.  While at S.A.’s apartment, Berry placed drugs designed to incapacitate S.A., including multiple anti-psychotic medications, into S.A.’s beverages without his knowledge or authorization.  After S.A. lost consciousness, SCHENCK and Berry stole S.A.’s valuables.  On February 25, 2017, SCHECNK and Berry used S.A.’s debit card to make multiple purchases in the New Orleans area.  Additionally, on February 25, 2017, detectives with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to a wellness check at S.A.’s residence and discovered his dead body.  Toxicology tests found the presence of anti-psychotic medications in S.A.’s body and determined that they contributed to his death.

If you believe you are a victim of these criminal activities, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324), and reference this case.

If convicted, SCHENCK faces a mandatory minimum of fifteen (15) years in prison up to maximum term of life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to a lifetime of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment per count.  SCHENCK may also be required to register as a sex offender.

U. S. Attorney Strasser 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 Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter and expressed appreciation for the support provided by the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg, supervisor of the Public Corruption Unit, and Elizabeth Privitera, supervisor of the Violent Crime Unit, are in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced on February 6, 2020 that ZETRICK JONES, age 36, a resident of Tickfaw, Louisiana, was sentenced to serve a total of 107 months in federal prison for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act. This sentence consisted of 47 months on the drug trafficking charge and an additional 60 months for the firearms violation.  He was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following his release from custody.

JONES was indicted by the Federal Grand Jury on December 13, 2018 for five separate violations of federal law.  This indictment was the result of a drug investigation that was led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office.

During the course of this investigation, agents learned that JONES kept several types of drugs and firearms at his residence.  This led agents to execute a search warrant at his address on August 6, 2018.  As a result of the search, agents recovered 92 grams of heroin, 76 grams of marijuana, 721 Xanax pills, 24 Roxycontin pills, 6.9 grams of methamphetamine, four digital scales and a press (all of which are used in the distribution of illegal drugs), two boxes containing 22 bottles of promethazine, $3,469 in U.S. currency, a stolen pink and black Diamondback .380 caliber pistol (bearing serial number ZI1506), a Zastava AK-47 (serial number 049008), and a stolen black Glock 30 .45 caliber handgun (serial number RZH342), along with various ammunition.

Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that LEILANI ASPURIA, age 25, of Jefferson Parish, Louisiana, was sentenced on February 5, 2020 by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to (10) ten years of imprisonment followed by (3) three years of supervised release for distributing ketamine which resulted in the death of a Slidell, Louisiana teenager.  The eighteen year old’s dead body was found floating in a Texas bayou.

As described in court documents, ASPURIA, along with WILLIAM HARRISON FARRIS, age 39, and KACIE DOUCET, age 37, conspired to incapacitate the teenager with drugs so that he could be transported to law enforcement authorities in Texas.  ASPURIA, FARRIS, and DOUCET did so in the hope of receiving free drugs from two large scale Texas-based methamphetamine dealers.  These dealers, a married couple, had told their New Orleans customers that they wanted the teenager so they would not lose the $6000 bond they had posted for him months earlier.

FARRIS pleaded guilty to the same charge and will be sentenced on March 18, 2020.  DOUCET also pleaded guilty to the same charge and will be sentenced on April 8, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana State Police, Houston Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant United States Attorneys David Howard Sinkman and Brandon S. Long and are in charge of the prosecution.      

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARC A. VICTORIANO (VICTORIANO), age 46, of Covington, Louisiana, was charged in federal court in a one-count Indictment for theft from a program receiving federal funds. 

According to the Indictment, from January 2015 and continuing through 2017, VICTORIANO and his company, Professional Safety Consultants, LLC, ("PSC") provided asbestos inspections for the Terrebonne Parish School Board ("TPSB") as mandated by the Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act ("AHERA").  Under AHERA, each school or facility must maintain an Asbestos Operation & Maintenance Plan addressing all areas confirmed or suspected to contain asbestos.  VICTORIANO submitted 56 invoices to TPSB with fraudulent asbestos laboratory reports including false air monitoring and false asbestos testing reports. VICTORIANO also submitted nine invoices to TPSB for AHERA reports with forged signatures and accreditation information.  As a result, TPSB paid VICTORIANO approximately $212,618.26 to which he was not entitled, in violation  of Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(A).

“The Asbestos Hazard Emergency Response Act (AHERA) is designed to protect our schools from hazardous air pollutants”, said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Brooks of EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division in Louisiana. “Today’s indictment demonstrates that individuals who intentionally violate federal laws will be held responsible for their crimes.”

VICTORIANO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than ten years, a fine of $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00.  Additionally, VICTORIANO is subject to a period of supervised release after imprisonment of up to three years.  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilty of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division; the Louisiana State Police; Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, Criminal Investigation Section and the Louisiana Environmental Crimes Task Force, in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that NAZARIO CRUZ-MUNOZ, age 35, was charged on January 31, 2020 in a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the indictment, NAZARIO CRUZ-MUNOZ (“CRUZ”), reentered the United States after he was previously deported on July 23, 2015.  If convicted, CRUZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. 

U. S. Attorney Strasser 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 Strasser praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Protection in investigating this matter.  Assistant U. S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that FRANCISCO ANTONIO ESCOTO-AVILA, age 38, was charged on January 30, 2020 in a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the indictment, FRANCISCO ANTONIO ESCOTO-AVILA (“ESCOTO”), reentered the United States after he was previously deported on March 3, 2011.  If convicted, ESCOTO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. 

U. S. Attorney Strasser 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 Strasser praised the work of the United States Customs and Border Patrol in investigating this matter.  Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MICHAEL MORGANI, age 32, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on January 29, 2020 to being a felon in possession of a firearm before United States District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.

According to court paperwork, MORGANI purchased two Extar semi-automatic pistols from an individual who he met on the Northshore.  MORGANI brought them to a body shop in New Orleans, where they were later recovered by the New Orleans Police Department during the execution of a search warrant.  MORGANI was prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior felony conviction from Jefferson Parish for possession of heroin.

MORGANI 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 on the gun charge.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DWAYNE BROWN, age 34, a resident of Laplace, Louisiana, was indicted for being a felon in possession of ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.

According to court documents, on or about October 1, 2019, the defendant knowingly possessed ammunition after being convicted in the 40th Judicial Court, State of Louisiana, for aggravated flight from an officer, simple criminal damage to property, and unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling.

If convicted, the defendant faces 10 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

United States Attorney Strasser 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 Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms in investigating this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Supervisor of the General Crimes Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that TERRENCE ROLLINS, age 40, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on January 28, 2020 to a Superseding Indictment charging him with possession with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride, and possession of the aforementioned drugs in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry will sentence ROLLINS on May 5, 2020.

According to court documents, members of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the New Orleans Police executed a search warrant at ROLLINS Washington Avenue residence after receiving information from concerned citizens that illegal narcotics were being sold at the residence by ROLLINS.  In August 2018, law enforcement executed the search warrant and located numerous controlled substances that included crack cocaine, powder cocaine and approximately 24.4 grams of heroin inside of the residence.  Additional items of drug paraphernalia were also located inside of the residence.  In addition to narcotics, seven firearms including handguns and high-powered rifles, and various types of ammunition were also located.

For the drug violations, ROLLINS faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, a period of supervised release of at least 3 years, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00.  For the firearms violation, ROLLINS faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years of imprisonment and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment.  Following this sentence, ROLLINS will be placed on supervised release for a period of up to 5 years, and will be fined up to $250,000.00.  A mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00 will be imposed.

ROLLINS’s case has been designated as a Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) case.  PSN is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brittany L. Reed is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced LARRY WILLIAMS (“LARRY WILLIAMS”), age 46, of New Orleans, LUCINDA THOMAS (“THOMAS”), age 63; MARY WADE (“WADE”), age 55; JUDY WILLIAMS (“JUDY WILLIAMS”), age 59; and DASHONTAE YOUNG (“YOUNG”), age 25; all of Houma, Louisiana, entered a plea of guilty today to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans.

According to today’s guilty pleas, on June 6, 2017, THOMAS, WADE, JUDY WILLIAMS, and YOUNG drove from Houma, LA, to meet with Damian Labeaud (“Labeaud”), for the purpose of staging an automobile accident in order to obtain money through fraud. After their meeting, THOMAS, WADE, JUDY WILLIAMS, and YOUNG agreed to allow Labeaud to drive THOMAS’ 2009 Chevrolet Avalanche vehicle. The defendants then drove around the vicinity of Chef Menteur Highway and Downman Road of New Orleans until they located a 2017 Freightliner tractor-trailer operated by an Arkansas trucking company. At approximately 12:30 P.M., Labeaud intentionally collided with the tractor-trailer. Labeaud then exited THOMAS’ vehicle and instructed THOMAS to get behind the wheel of THOMAS’ Avalanche to make it appear that THOMAS was driving the vehicle at the time of the staged accident.

THOMAS, WADE, JUDY WILLIAMS, and YOUNG contacted the NOPD and falsely reported that THOMAS had been the driver of the Avalanche and that the tractor-trailer had struck her vehicle. Labeaud then returned to the scene and also made false statements to the NOPD that he had witnessed the accident and that the driver of the tractor-trailer had been at fault.

According to documents filed in federal court, before and after the staged accident, Labeaud contacted Attorney A and arranged a meeting with THOMAS, WADE, JUDY WILLIAMS, and YOUNG at a fast food restaurant on Chef Menteur Highway. It is further alleged that Attorney A paid Labeaud $7,500.00 on the day of the staged accident. Attorney A then demanded approximately $1,000,000.00 per plaintiff in settlement for THOMAS, WADE, and JUDY WILLIAMS. Attorney A then filed two lawsuits in CDC. Both of the lawsuits filed in CDC by Attorney A were removed to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

Additionally, Attorney A worried about a telephone call made by WADE to Labeaud prior to the staged accident, and contacted THOMAS and WADE to instruct them to “get their stories straight.” During a subsequent meeting, Attorney A gave Labeaud an envelope containing phone records, pleadings, and depositions establishing THOMAS and WADE lied under oath in their September 13, 2018 depositions. Attorney A then met with THOMAS and WADE at an establishment in Thibodaux where Attorney A suggested to THOMAS and WADE a fraudulent scenario to explain a telephone call from WADE to Labeaud prior to the staged accident. THOMAS, WADE, and JUDY WILLIAMS each admitted to providing false testimony in various depositions taken in conjunction with the lawsuits filed by Attorney A. Ultimately, but only after a year of pursuing their fraudulent lawsuits, did THOMAS, WADE, and JUDY WILLIAMS settle their cases for $7,500.00 each.

Also today, LARRY WILLIAMS, admitted he conspired with Labeaud, Mario Solomon (“Solomon”), and Genetta Isreal (“Isreal”) to stage an accident on June 12, 2017, that occurred on Chef Mentuer Highway near the Danziger Bridge in New Orleans. Labeaud and LARRY WILLIAMS planned to stage an automobile accident to obtain money through fraud. During their planning, Labeaud told LARRY WILLIAMS that he had an attorney who would handle everything. LARRY WILLIAMS recruited Isreal and another individual (now deceased) to participate in the fraudulent scheme. LARRY WILLIAMS then borrowed a Chevrolet Trailblazer, and that Labeaud operated the Trailblazer to collide with a 2015 Peterbilt tractor-trailer. After the staged accident, Labeaud fled the scene and LARRY WILLIAMS got behind the wheel to make it appear that he was operating the Trailblazer during the staged accident. Solomon picked up Labeaud after the staged accident. LARRY WILLIAMS told the New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) that he was the driver of the Trailblazer and that the tractor-trailer was at fault. After the staged accident, Labeaud introduced LARRY WILLIAMS and Isreal to Attorney A.     

LARRY WILLIAMS and Isreal were treated by doctors and healthcare providers at the direction of Attorney A. Attorney A told LARRY WILLIAMS that he would get more money if he had shoulder surgery. On June 12, 2018, Attorney A’s law partner, Attorney B, filed the Larry Williams Lawsuit in Civil District Court (“CDC”) for the Parish of Orleans and on September 14, 2018, Attorney B demanded approximately $60,000.00 in settlement for the aforementioned deceased individual and approximately $56,155.00 in settlement for Isreal. After the suit was filed, LARRY WILLIAMS and Isreal each provided false testimony in depositions taken in conjunction with the lawsuit filed by Attorney B.

THOMAS, WADE, JUDY WILLIAMS, LARRY WILLIAMS, and YOUNG face a maximum sentence of five (5) years. Upon release from prison, THOMAS, WADE, JUDY WILLIAMS, LARRY WILLIAMS, and YOUNG also face 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 each defendant or twice the gross loss to any person under Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for May 21, 2020, before U.S. District Judge Eldon Fallon.

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, Supervisor of the Financial Crimes Unit; Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Rivera; Assistant U.S. Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh; Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Carboni, and Trial Attorney Jared Hasten of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Fraud Section, Health Care Fraud Unit. 

NEW ORLEANS - United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that defendant MARTHA BUEZO MARTINEZ (“MARTINEZ”), age 49, of Kenner, LA, pled guilty to failing to account for and pay over employment taxes to the Internal Revenue Service, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7202.

According to court documents, MARTINEZ was the President, Director, and sole officer of Infinity Construction Resources, Inc.  From on or about March 2013 (1st quarter of 2013) to December 2017 (4th quarter of 2017), MARTINEZ, through Infinity, failed to pay over to the United States Internal Revenue Service approximately $272,096 in FICA taxes.

The court set sentencing in this matter for April 28, 2020.  For Court 2, MARTINEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.

This matter was handled by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the case. 

NEW ORLEANS, La. - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ANIL PRASAD, M.D., age 63, a resident of Covington, Louisiana was sentenced on January 28, 2020 by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to 24 months’ imprisonment followed by (3) three years of supervised release, with the condition that the first 12 months of supervised release be served on home confinement in connection with his guilty plea to conspiracy to unlawfully distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to commit health care fraud.  In addition, PRASAD agreed to pay $1,657,461.15 in restitution to the Medicare and Medicaid programs. 

According to court documents, PRASAD admitted that he conspired with others to unlawfully distribute and dispense controlled substances—including oxycodone and hydrocodone—at a medical clinic that was, in actuality, a pill mill.  PRASAD admitted that he rarely performed face-to-face examinations of patients at the clinic to determine whether any medical necessity existed for the controlled substances that he dispensed to them.  Instead, PRASAD admitted that he pre-signed prescriptions for controlled substances for patients.  Those patients then picked up the prescriptions from the clinic after making a cash payment to the clinic.  PRASAD also admitted that he pre-signed prescriptions before traveling internationally, and that patients would pick up those prescriptions while he was out of the country.  Further, PRASAD admitted that he knew certain patients who received the pre-signed prescriptions used their Medicare and Medicaid benefits to fill the prescriptions at area pharmacies.  In total, Medicare and Medicaid paid approximately $1,657,461.15 for those prescriptions.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services, the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Department of Veterans Affairs for their work investigating the case. 

The case is being prosecuted by Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan Lieberman. 

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NEW ORLEANS, La. – CHARLES A. LOPEZ (“LOPEZ”), age 27, of Harahan, Louisiana, was indicted on January 16, 2020, for receipt of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser. LOPEZ was arrested by Special Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) on Thursday, January 23, 2020. LOPEZ appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael B. North on Friday, January 24, 2020.

The case against LOPEZ developed as a result of an undercover child exploitation investigation conducted by special agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”). On April 30, 2019, HSI agents and special agents with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation executed a federal search warrant at LOPEZ’s Harahan home and determined LOPEZ received images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of minors.

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

If convicted, LOPEZ faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment up to twenty (20) years, followed by up to a life term of supervised release, and a $250,000.00 fine.

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

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A federal grand jury in New Orleans, Louisiana, returned an indictment today charging three Louisiana residents with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, 14 counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent tax return, three counts of wire fraud, and three counts of aggravated identity theft, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana.

According to the indictment, throughout 2015, Morgan Antoine, Jennifer Austin, and Brittany Patterson conspired to file false tax returns for clients of Pelican Income Tax and Payroll Service, a tax preparation business located in Kenner and Westwego, Louisiana.   The coconspirators allegedly prepared client returns reporting false income, false withholdings, and false dependents, in order to cause the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to pay inflated refunds.  The indictment further alleges that the coconspirators charged fees as high as $1,100 for preparing tax returns, which they often deducted from the clients’ refunds.

The indictment also charges that to conceal their involvement in the fraud, the coconspirators filed returns in the name of a third party whose personal identifying information was stolen.  Finally, the indictment alleges that Antoine and Patterson each falsified their own personal returns claiming false dependents.

If convicted, Antoine, Austin, and Patterson each face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge and three years for each count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent tax return. Antoine and Patterson face an additional twenty years in prison for each count of wire fraud and a two-year mandatory minimum for each count of aggravated identity theft. They also face a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana thanked special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice and Trial Attorneys Lauren Castaldi and Jessica Kraft of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting this case.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website.

WASHINGTON – A federal grand jury in New Orleans, Louisiana, returned an indictment today charging three Louisiana residents with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, 14 counts of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent tax return, three counts of wire fraud, and three counts of aggravated identity theft, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana.

According to the indictment, throughout 2015, Morgan Antoine, Jennifer Austin, and Brittany Patterson conspired to file false tax returns for clients of Pelican Income Tax and Payroll Service, a tax preparation business located in Kenner and Westwego, Louisiana.   The coconspirators allegedly prepared client returns reporting false income, false withholdings, and false dependents, in order to cause the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to pay inflated refunds.  The indictment further alleges that the coconspirators charged fees as high as $1,100 for preparing tax returns, which they often deducted from the clients’ refunds.

The indictment also charges that to conceal their involvement in the fraud, the coconspirators filed returns in the name of a third party whose personal identifying information was stolen.  Finally, the indictment alleges that Antoine and Patterson each falsified their own personal returns claiming false dependents.

If convicted, Antoine, Austin, and Patterson each face a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison for the conspiracy charge and three years for each count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent tax return. Antoine and Patterson face an additional twenty years in prison for each count of wire fraud and a two-year mandatory minimum for each count of aggravated identity theft. They also face a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Eastern District of Louisiana thanked special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice and Trial Attorneys Lauren Castaldi and Jessica Kraft of the Tax Division, who are prosecuting this case.

Additional information about the Tax Division and its enforcement efforts may be found on the Division’s website.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that LAKISHA WILLIAMS, age 38, and her spouse BRITTANY WHITE, age 33, both of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe to charges stemming from their participation in a credit card fraud ring that operated in the New Orleans area.

According to court documents, WILLIAMS and WHITE and the other defendants engaged in a scheme to obtain merchandise and cash from stores through fraud.  The defendants obtained stolen credit and debit card information, encoded it onto cards, and then used that information to purchase items at stores.  The defendants would then return the items at a different store of the same chain, but they would deceive store workers in order to have the chargeback credited to their own own bank accounts. 

Court documents also detail how WILLIAMS took flights with other co-conspirators to perform fraudulent credit card transactions in various cities in the United States, including Charleston, South Carolina; Chicago, Illinois; Ft. Lauderdale, Florida; Nashville, Tennessee; St. Louis, Missouri; Richmond, Virginia; and Charlotte, North Carolina.  WILLIAMS and WHITE admitted that they caused between $150,000.00 and $250,000.00 in losses through their own conduct and that of their co-conspirators.

WILLIAMS pleaded guilty to four counts of the Third Superseding Indictment: conspiracy to commit access device fraud, possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices, possession of device-making equipment, and aggravated identity theft.  WHITE pleaded guilty to two counts: conspiracy to commit access device fraud and possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices.

As to the conspiracy charge, both WILLIAMS and WHITE face a maximum of five years in prison.  As to the charge of possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices, WILLIAMS and WHITE may receive a maximum of ten years in prison.  As to the charge of possession of device making equipment, WILLIAMS may receive a maximum of up to fifteen years in prison.  As to the charge of aggravated identity theft, WILLIAMS must be sentenced to two years in prison to be served consecutively to any other sentence.  Each defendant may also be fined up to $250,000.00 or twice the gross gain or gross loss for each count.  Sentencing is set for both defendants on April 30, 2020, before Judge Ashe.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the agencies that contributed to this conviction, which represents a coordinated effort of federal and state law enforcement authorities within the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force.  The Task Force includes representatives from the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, Covington Police Department, Hammond Police Department, Kenner Police Department, Louisiana State Police, Mandeville Police Department, Slidell Police Department, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. John The Baptist Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. State Department, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service.  U.S. Attorney Strasser also thanked the Franklin (TN) Police Department, the Mobile Police Department, the Gulfport Police Department, the Minnetonka (MN) Police Department, the Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office, and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance.  Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew R. Payne and K. Paige O’Hale are in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, La. - U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced that DANIEL J. KUESPERT, age 30, of LaPorte County, Indiana, was sentenced on  January 23, 2020, for failing to register as a sex offender under the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).                           

United States District Court Judge Barry Ashe sentenced KUESPERT to nineteen (19) months incarceration to be followed by five (5) years of supervised release.

According to court records, KUESPERT was convicted for two counts of Child Molesting in La Port Circuit, Indiana.  KUESPERT was sentenced to twelve years in jail with the Indiana Department of Corrections.  In addition to the jail sentence, KUESPERT was ordered to register as a sex offender for a period of life.  In September 2018, law enforcement officers in Indiana discovered that KUESPERT had left the state without notification.  Accordingly, they issued a warrant for his arrest.  On January 7, 2019, KUESPERT was discovered on South Claiborne and Canal Street by the U.S. Marshals.  KUESPERT admitted to the Marshals that he knew he was required to register as a sex offender with the New Orleans Police Department, but he decided not to because he did not want the authorities in Indiana to know his whereabouts.   

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Marshals Service, the Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office, the New Orleans Police Department, and the LaPorte County Sheriff’s Office in this matter.  He also extended his thanks to the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance.  Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, La. - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that JOHN ANTHONY MARSH, age 56, a resident of Lawrenceville, Georgia was sentenced on January 22, 2020 by U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman to three years’ probation, with a condition that the first 45 days be served on home confinement, in connection with his guilty plea to identity theft.  In addition, MARSH agreed to pay restitution to the Medicare and Medicaid programs. 

According to court documents, in 2016, MARSH opened a business in New Orleans called Magazine Medical Group & Associates, LLC (“Magazine Medical”) that provided ophthalmological services.  MARSH opened Magazine Medical at the same location as another medical clinic that had provided ophthalmological services, Business 1.  Between June 2016 and September 2016, MARSH used Business 1’s name when submitting claims for medical services to Medicare and other health care benefit programs to make it appear is those purported medical services were performed at Business 1. 

Additionally, according to court documents, during that same time period, MARSH used the National Provider Identifier of a physician, who previously worked for Business 1, to submit claims to Medicare and other health care benefit programs making it appear as though that physician performed medical services at Magazine Medical.  That physician neither worked for MARSH or Magazine Medical nor treated any patients for ophthalmological services at that clinic.

As reimbursement for the fraudulent claims that MARSH was responsible for submitting through Magazine Medical, Medicare and other health care benefit programs issued checks to Business 1 and the physician.  MARSH received and deposited these checks into his bank account.  In total, between June 2016 and September 2016, MARSH fraudulently caused billings to Medicare and other health care benefit programs totaling approximately $77,198 for medical services that were not provided by that physician, and received approximately $20,669.67 for these claims.  MARSH agreed to repay $20,669.67 in restitution to the Medicare and Medicaid programs.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their work investigating the case.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

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NEW ORLEANS, La. – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ELISEO MARTINEZ (MARTINEZ), age 48, a resident of Miami, Florida, was sentenced on January 23, 2020 after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of medical products, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

MARTINEZ was sentenced to 135 months imprisonment with credit for time served, supervised release for a term of 3 years, and a $300.00 assessment. MARTINEZ was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $203,000.

According to court documents, beginning sometime prior to December 2012, MARTINEZ and others conspired to use Marea Distributors and Logistics, LLC, in Louisiana and Marea Distributors, LLC, in Florida to fraudulently re-sell diverted pharmaceuticals.  Working together, the defendants would collect dispensed drugs of known and unknown origin, counterfeit drugs, expired drugs, and drugs not authorized for resale and then fraudulently reintroduce them into the pre-retail, wholesale market for eventual sale under false pretenses to pharmacies and end users.  According to court documents

Among other things, the defendants would create and scan fraudulent invoices and send them from Marea Distributors in Florida to Marea Distributors & Logistics in Louisiana by email.  In Louisiana, Marea Distributors & Logistics would then send the fraudulent invoices by email from Louisiana to wherever the diverted pharmaceuticals were shipped.  When necessary, Marea Distributors & Logistics in Louisiana would create invoices for the products and email them to customers who were making purchases.   

During the course of the conspiracy the defendants opened or caused to be opened bank accounts in the names of various entities, including Marea Distributors & Logistics and Marea Distributors.  The defendants used those accounts to deposit the proceeds obtained from the sale of diverted pharmaceuticals and then to further distribute those proceeds to bank accounts controlled by them. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Food and Drug Administration, and the Miami Dade Police Department, in investigating this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Theodore R. Carter, III, and David Haller.

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NEW ORLEANS, La. – AMIN SULUKI, age 38, a resident of Burlington, North Carolina, was sentenced to (60) sixty months’ imprisonment and (4) four years of supervised release after pleading guilty to a one-count Superseding Bill of Information charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five hundred grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.  SULUKI was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier.

According to court records, the Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force, New Orleans (HSI/NO) received information that SULUKI was attempting to purchase kilogram quantities of cocaine.  Under the direction of HSI/NO, a confidential informant contacted SULUKI who informed the confidential informant that he was only able to purchase one kilogram of cocaine.  On November 23, 2017, SULUKI and another individual, Wilfredo Morales, met with the confidential informant and agreed to purchase a total of five kilograms of cocaine for $120,000.00.  The following day, SULUKI and Morales met with the confidential informant and an undercover officer to purchase the cocaine.  After inspecting sham cocaine provided by the informant and officer, SULUKI and Morales provided the confidential informant with the money, at which time agents arrested SULUKI and Morales.

This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations Border Enforcement Security Task Force, New Orleans.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.

NEW ORLEANS, La. - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that LUCCAS EASTMAN, age 29, a resident of Mandeville pleaded guilty on January 22, 2020, before United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance to a one-count bill of information charging him with selling misbranded generic drugs in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 331.

According to court documents, from January 2017 through May 2017, EASTMAN imported mislabeled generic versions of drugs, including Tadalafil, from Chinese companies which he then sold to members of the bodybuilding community in the Slidell/Mandeville area, among other consumers.  Tadalafil is a generic version of Cialis.

EASTMAN faces a maximum term of up to one year in prison and up to one year of supervised release.  Sentencing before Judge Vance is scheduled for April 29, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Food and Drug Administration.  Assistant United States Attorney David Howard Sinkman is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, La. – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that CHRISTOPHER WATSON, age 28, has pled guilty on January 22, 2020 to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft, stemming from his arrest in Jefferson Parish in the summer of 2018.

According to Court documents, WATSON pled guilty to an elaborate fraud scheme which involved using stolen or fraudulent identities to obtain vehicle financing. WATSON, who previously worked as a used car salesman, submitted numerous fraudulent loan applications to financial institutions and automobile lenders, sometimes using the personal identifying information of his customers without their authorization and other times using stolen identities. Throughout the course of the conspiracy WATSON used either unauthorized or counterfeit information in order to defraud financial institutions and lenders, including USAA Financial, an FDIC-insured financial institution, Westlake Financial Services, and United Auto Credit Corporation, among other victims. In some instances, WATSON utilized the dealer license numbers and names of different legitimate car dealerships and forged their names as sellers of the vehicles on the fraudulent loan applications.

WATSON agreed that he caused a loss of between $250,000.00 and $550,000.00 based upon his own conduct and the reasonably foreseeable conduct of his co-conspirators in the common scheme to defraud. The maximum penalty that WATSON faces for the conspiracy to commit bank fraud and wire fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, is up to five years of imprisonment, followed by up to three years supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.

In addition to the conspiracy charge, WATSON also pled guilty to one count of aggravated identity theft for using the identity of a member of the military to submit a fraudulent auto loan application to USAA Financial. For the aggravated identity theft charge, WATSON faces a two year sentence to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed, followed by one year of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. 

The Honorable Wendy B. Vitter accepted WATSON’s plea and scheduled his sentencing hearing for April 28, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Secret Service Financial Crimes Taskforce in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ARMANDO ENRIQUEZ-MORA, age 38, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced on January 21, 2020 after pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien.

According to the bill of information, ARMANDO ENRIQUEZ-MORA was encountered in the United States on or about October 8, 2019, after having been previously removed therefrom on or about October 30, 2012.

U. S.  District Judge Wendy B. Vitter sentenced ARMANDO ENRIQUEZ-MORA to time served, a $100 special assessment and was surrendered to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.

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

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NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that MATTHEW COURTNEY will pay $700,000 to resolve allegations that he violated the False Claims Act. COURTNEY was the owner of two schools, Louisiana Shooters Unlimited and Arete Training Group, both of which had been certified by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) and the Louisiana Department of Veteran’s Affairs to receive VA educational funding to provide classes to eligible veterans.

The settlement resolves allegations that COURTNEY submitted false claims in order to obtain payments from the VA. The United States contends that during the period from March 2013 through September 2017, COURTNEY represented to the VA that Arete and LSU were in compliance with 38 C.F.R. § 21.4201 and 38 U.S.C. § 3680A (commonly known as the 85-15 Rule), when the schools were not. COURTNEY also created false enrollments for VA students for particular courses when they did not enroll in the courses. Furthermore, COURTNEY failed to notify the VA when a student failed to attend a course and when a student dropped a course. By doing so, COURTNEY failed to repay the overpayment that was due to the VA.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office credited special agents of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General with the investigation leading to the settlement.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Loan “Mimi” Nguyen and Shirin Hakimzedah.

NEW ORLEANS - United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that defendant LARRY GREEN (“GREEN”), age 37, of Hammond, LA, pled guilty on January 21, 2020 to (Count 1) possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A) and (Count 2) conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846.

According to court documents, between February 2019 and April 2019 GREEN distributed approximately 644 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.  On Valentine’s Day 2019, GREEN possessed a firearm in furtherance of one of the illegal narcotics transactions.

The court set sentencing in this matter for April 21, 2020.  For Count 1, GREEN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life and a $250,000 fine.  Any term of imprisonment imposed for Count 1 is to be served consecutively to any other term of imprisonment.  For Count 2, GREEN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of (20) twenty years and a $1,000,000 fine.  For Count 1, GREEN faces up to (5) five years supervised release following any term of imprisonment and a $100 special assessment fee.  For Count 2, GREEN faces at least (3) three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This matter was handled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the matter. 

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that today WESLEY T. BISHOP, age 52, of New Orleans pleaded guilty to making a false statement, a crime punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment.  BISHOP admitted to knowingly and willfully making a false, material statement to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) in connection with rental property that he owned.  Pursuant to the plea agreement, BISHOP has agreed to pay restitution to the State of Louisiana, Division of Administration, Office of Community Development, which administers the subject Small Rental Property Program on behalf of HUD.  Judge Greg Guidry scheduled sentencing for April 21, 2020, at 10:00 a.m.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SCHSHINETIA ANDERSON, age 42, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, was indicted for filing false claims against the government, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.  If convicted, ANDERSON faces a maximum term of 5 years imprisonment, 3 years supervised release, $250k fine and a $100 special assessment. 

According to court documents, on or about August 18, 2016, ANDERSON filed a fraudulent request, totaling approximately $22,104.00, for financial assistance due to a natural disaster related to the alleged loss of her primary residence.

United States Attorney Strasser 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 Strasser praised the work of the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U. S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Supervisor of the General Crimes Unit.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that BERNELL BREAUX, age 57, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged in a two-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury for attempted bank robbery of a Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company branch and for bank robbery at a Capital One Bank branch.

According to court documents, on or about January 2, 2020, in the Eastern District of Louisiana, BREAUX attempted to rob a Gulf Coast Bank and Trust Company branch in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).  Additionally, on or about January 2, 2020, in the Eastern District of Louisiana BREAUX robbed a Capital One Bank branch of approximately $302.00 in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).

If convicted, BREAUX faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years, a (3) year period of supervised release and a maximum fine of $250,000 for each count.

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

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Crime Task Force.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Eshkol is in charge of the prosecution.

Today, two more defendants pleaded guilty in connection with their roles in the death of Nimali Henry, an inmate in their custody. Henry, who had a rare blood disorder and other medical conditions, died in the St. Bernard Parish Prison in Chalmette, Louisiana, on April 1, 2014, after failing to receive treatment for her serious medical needs during the 10 days she was incarcerated there. 

“Officers such as Andre Dominick and Lisa Vaccarella have a responsibility to protect the civil rights of all in their custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to defend the civil rights of all citizens.”

“The protection for all of our citizen’s civil rights is an essential part of our constitutional rights,” said U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Violation of these entitlements, especially in this case by the correctional officers sworn to protect the rights of inmates, erodes public confidence in our correctional system. The public must be able to trust that correctional officers are fulfilling their duties honestly and are truthful during the course of federal investigations or face the consequences of their actions. Our office along with DOJ, state and local law enforcement agencies will continue to investigate and prosecute any violations of our citizens civil rights.”

“Captain Andre Dominick and Correctional Officer Lisa Vaccarella were responsible for the welfare of inmates at the St. Bernard Parish Prison. Because of the choices each defendant made, Nimali Henry failed to get the care and attention that she needed to address known medical conditions, leading to her death,” said Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge.  “The FBI New Orleans Field Office, in coordination with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office, remain committed to protecting the rights of all Americans, to include those incarcerated.”

Dominick, a former correctional captain, pleaded guilty to violating the civil rights of Henry, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 242. In pleading guilty, Dominick – who was acting as the medical officer during Henry’s incarceration – admitted that he knew that Henry had serious medical needs, but failed to take any reasonable steps to get her the medical attention she needed during the 10 days that she was in the custody.

Vaccarella, a former correctional deputy, pleaded guilty to one count of misprision of a felony. In pleading guilty to that count, Vaccarella admitted that she knew that other officers at the jail had willfully deprived Henry of medical treatment for her serious medical needs, but she failed to take any affirmative steps to alert federal authorities to this federal civil rights violation. In addition, Vaccarella pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements to the FBI, admitting that, during her voluntary interview with the FBI, she lied to the FBI about her observations of Henry.

Vaccarella is scheduled to be sentenced on April 29, 2020. Dominick is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10, 2020. Dominick faces a sentence of up to life imprisonment. Vaccarella faces a sentence of up to eight years of imprisonment.

Previously, in related cases, former Corporal Timothy Williams pleaded guilty on Sept. 18, 2018, to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 242. In pleading guilty, Williams admitted that he willfully disregarded a substantial risk of serious harm to Henry’s health and safety by failing to take reasonable measures to address her medical conditions. On Jan. 7, 2020, former Deputy Debra Becnel pleaded guilty to making false statements in connection with the federal investigation into Henry’s death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001.

This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted jointly by Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chandra Menon and Tracey N. Knight of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

WASHINGTON – Today, two more defendants pleaded guilty in connection with their roles in the death of Nimali Henry, an inmate in their custody. Henry, who had a rare blood disorder and other medical conditions, died in the St. Bernard Parish Prison in Chalmette, Louisiana, on April 1, 2014, after failing to receive treatment for her serious medical needs during the 10 days she was incarcerated there. 

“Officers such as Andre Dominick and Lisa Vaccarella have a responsibility to protect the civil rights of all in their custody,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will continue to defend the civil rights of all citizens.”

“The protection for all of our citizen’s civil rights is an essential part of our constitutional rights,” said U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Violation of these entitlements, especially in this case by the correctional officers sworn to protect the rights of inmates, erodes public confidence in our correctional system. The public must be able to trust that correctional officers are fulfilling their duties honestly and are truthful during the course of federal investigations or face the consequences of their actions. Our office along with DOJ, state and local law enforcement agencies will continue to investigate and prosecute any violations of our citizens civil rights.”

“Captain Andre Dominick and Correctional Officer Lisa Vaccarella were responsible for the welfare of inmates at the St. Bernard Parish Prison. Because of the choices each defendant made, Nimali Henry failed to get the care and attention that she needed to address her known medical conditions, leading to her death,” said Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge.  “The FBI New Orleans Field Office, in coordination with the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office, remain committed to protecting the rights of all Americans, to include those incarcerated.”

Dominick, a former correctional captain, pleaded guilty to violating the civil rights of Henry, pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 242. In pleading guilty, Dominick – who was acting as the medical officer during Henry’s incarceration – admitted that he knew that Henry had serious medical needs, but failed to take any reasonable steps to get her the medical attention she needed during the 10 days that she was in the custody.

Vaccarella, a former correctional deputy, pleaded guilty to one count of misprision of a felony. In pleading guilty to that count, Vaccarella admitted that she knew that other officers at the jail had willfully deprived Henry of medical treatment for her serious medical needs, but she failed to take any affirmative steps to alert federal authorities to this federal civil rights violation. In addition, Vaccarella pleaded guilty to one count of making false statements to the FBI, admitting that, during her voluntary interview with the FBI, she lied to the FBI about her observations of Henry.

Vaccarella is scheduled to be sentenced on April 29, 2020. Dominick is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10, 2020. Dominick faces a sentence of up to life imprisonment. Vaccarella faces a sentence of up to eight years of imprisonment.

Previously, in related cases, former Corporal Timothy Williams pleaded guilty on Sept. 18, 2018, to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 242. In pleading guilty, Williams admitted that he willfully disregarded a substantial risk of serious harm to Henry’s health and safety by failing to take reasonable measures to address her medical conditions. On Jan. 7, 2020, former Deputy Debra Becnel pleaded guilty to making false statements in connection with the federal investigation into Henry’s death, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001.

This case was investigated by the FBI and is being prosecuted jointly by Trial Attorney Christine M. Siscaretti of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chandra Menon and Tracey N. Knight of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

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NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that CHRISTIE LYNN BROWNING, age 42, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana pled guilty on January 15, 2020 to a dual object conspiracy to obtain possession of oxycodone by fraud and to unlawfully distribute oxycodone.

According to court documents, between November 2017 and January 2019, BROWNING conspired to acquire oxycodone pills by using fictitious prescriptions and to then distribute those oxycodone pills on the black market.  BROWNING faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000 and at least three years of supervised release.  United States District Court Judge Martin L.C. Feldman set sentencing for April 8, 2020. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office for their work investigating the case.

The case is being prosecuted by Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant United States Attorney Myles Ranier. 

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NEW ORLEANS -  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that ELTON JOHNSON, (“JOHNSON”), age 35, of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 14, 2020 to 37 months imprisonment by the Honorable Jay C. Zainey for being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).  Also, JOHNSON was ordered by the Court to serve three (3) years of supervised release and pay a $100.00 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on June 27, 2018, Louisiana State Troopers conducted a traffic stop near the intersection of Downman and Dwyer Rds.  One Trooper observed that the vehicle, a 2008 gray Saturn sedan, had a tinted rectangular cover over the temporary license plate and could not see the temporary license plate’s information.  The Troopers stopped the sedan at a local gas station.    JOHNSON exited the gray sedan from the front passenger side.  A Trooper instructed JOHNSON to approach them but he walked away from the sedan.  After a second command, JOHNSON complied.

As JOHNSON walked closer to the Troopers, they smelled marijuana and JOHNSON was observed with a hand rolled cigar in his right hand.  The Troopers suspected that the cigar contained marijuana and was the source of the marijuana odor.

The sedan was searched incidental to JOHNSON’s arrest and law enforcement located a loaded Taurus Model PT-709 SLIM, serial no. FTS32722 on the front passenger side of the center console.  JOHNSON later confessed at the scene that he possessed the firearm for protection.  Due to his status as a federally convicted felon, the law prohibits JOHNSON from possessing firearms.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

This matter was handled by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Louisiana State Police.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans prosecuted the case.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ANTONIO OSORIO DIAZ, (“DIAZ”), age 41, a native of Mexico, was sentenced on January 8, 2020 to 13 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to a one-count indictment charging him with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A).

In papers filed in open court, DIAZ admitted he was an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.  The indictment alleged he illegally possessed a Ruger 45 caliber semi-automatic pistol.  On February 3, 2019, the Gretna Police received a complaint of a man with a gun in a parking lot and responded.  Illegal aliens are prohibited from possessing firearms under federal law.

DIAZ faced a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release.  After he completes his prison term, he will face deportation.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency and the Gretna Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that FREDDY OVIDIO CASTILLO-CRUZ, (“CASTILLO-CRUZ”), age 40, was sentenced on January 9, 2020 to 16 months in federal prison for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to documents filed in open court, CASTILLO-CRUZ reentered the United States after he was previously deported on December 5, 2012.  CASTILLO-CRUZ faced a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter.  Assistant U. S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that EDD SCAFIDEL, JR., age 59, a resident of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on January 9, 2020 before United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon after previously being charged in a one-count  Indictment with receipt of images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children, including children as young as approximately one (1) year old, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 2252(a)(2).

According to court documents, in about November 2018, a complainant knowledgeable of SCAFIDEL’s actions reported to Special Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation that SCAFIDEL possessed electronic storage devices that contained files depicting the sexual exploitation of children.  After further investigation, the FBI executed a search warrant at SCAFIDEL’s residence in Ponchatoula, Louisiana on December 4, 2018.  During the execution of the search warrant, SCAFIDEL possessed a leather pouch that contained, among other items, two electronic storage devices that contained files depicting the sexual exploitation of children.  Subsequent forensic analysis determined that SCAFIDEL used computers and external hard drives to search for, download, and store child pornography.  In total, SCAFIDEL downloaded and saved at least 22,334 images depicting the sexual victimization of children, including children less than one year old.  Among the files SCAFIDEL searched for, downloaded, and stored were some that portrayed “sadistic or masochistic conduct or other depictions of violence.”  Specifically, at least one image portrayed the sexual penetration of a conscious, bound prepubescent female.

If convicted, SCAFIDEL faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five (5) years and a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty (20) years, followed by up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.  He can also be required to register as a sex offender.  Sentencing before Judge Fallon has been scheduled for April 16, 2020, at 2:00 pm. 

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

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter, with support from the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.

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