Eastern District of Louisiana

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that SHALLON DAVIS DUNMILES, together with LASHONDA MELANCON, DANYELLE TUCO, ANDREA STALKS, EBONY STEWART, CORTAZ WILLIAMS, DANIELLE ANDERSON, and WILFRED PERRILLOUX have all been sentenced after pleading guilty to charges stemming from their arrest in St. John the Baptist Parish last year for fraudulently obtaining and distributing prescription drugs using a physician’s prescription pad.  

According to Court documents, DUNMILES, a former employee at a medical clinic in Laplace, and MELANCON were sentenced by District Court Judge Lance M. Africk on November 20, 2019 and October 23, 2019, respectively. DUNMILES was sentenced to 18 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. MELANCON was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release. Both women were sentenced after pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess and possess with the intent to distribute illicitly obtained prescription medications, including dextroamphetamine/Adderall, a Schedule II drug controlled substance, and promethazine with codeine, a Schedule V drug controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846. The investigation revealed that during the course of the conspiracy, DUNMILES wrote approximately 148 fraudulent prescriptions using her former employer’s prescription pad. Together with MELANCON, DUNMILES distributed the prescriptions, often in exchange for money.

PERRILLOUX, STALKS, STEWART, TUCO, WILLIAMS, and ANDERSON were all sentenced previously after pleading guilty to conspiracy to acquire or obtain possession of the prescription medication by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 843(a) and 846.  The investigation revealed that these individuals were all involved with obtaining the fraudulent prescriptions from DUNMILES and MELANCON. PERRILLOUX was sentenced to 10 months imprisonment, followed by a one-year term of supervised release. STALKS, STEWART, TUCO, WILLIAMS, and ANDERSON were all sentenced to a three-year term of probation.

U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser also praised the work of the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Division and the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Tactical Diversion Squad (TDS) in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh is in charge of the prosecution.

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U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that DR. ANDREW J. VAN ATTA, age 37, from Wasilla, Alaska, pled guilty to wire fraud.

VAN ATTA pled guilty to the one-count indictment that charged him with committing wire fraud from January of 2017 through May of 2018. According to court documents, starting in January of 2017, when VAN ATTA was a medical student, and continuing after he graduated, VAN ATTA used multiple email accounts and PayPal accounts to impersonate numerous other physicians while filling out surveys with a survey company that paid VAN ATTA for surveys that the victim company believed were completed by various other physicians. The company paid VAN ATTA a total of over $114,000 for the surveys completed under the fake names.

Judge Susie Morgan set the sentencing for Tuesday, February 18, 2020 at 10am. VAN ATTA faces up to twenty years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to VAN ATTA or the gross loss to any victims.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.

Michegel Butler and Brittany Patterson, residents of St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiracy to defraud the United States, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Patterson also pleaded guilty to aiding and assisting in the filing of false tax returns.

According to court documents, Butler owned Crown Tax Service LLC, located in Kenner, Louisiana, and Patterson worked there as a tax return preparer. From approximately January 2013 through April 2013, Butler, Patterson, and others conspired to inflate their clients’ refunds by preparing returns falsely claiming Schedule C businesses, dependents, and dependent care expenses. To substantiate the false expenses, the conspirators directed clients to fill out fraudulent receipts. They also encouraged some clients to buy or sell dependents that could be used on tax returns.

When sentenced, Butler and Patterson each face a maximum sentence of five years, three years of supervised release, restitution, and other monetary penalties. Patterson also faces an additional maximum sentence of three years imprisonment for each count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return.  

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.commended special agents of Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Lauren Castaldi and Jessica Kraft of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, who prosecuted the case.

WASHINGTON – Michegel Butler and Brittany Patterson, residents of St. John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiracy to defraud the United States, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Patterson also pleaded guilty to aiding and assisting in the filing of false tax returns.

According to court documents, Butler owned Crown Tax Service LLC, located in Kenner, Louisiana, and Patterson worked there as a tax return preparer. From approximately January 2013 through April 2013, Butler, Patterson, and others conspired to inflate their clients’ refunds by preparing returns falsely claiming Schedule C businesses, dependents, and dependent care expenses. To substantiate the false expenses, the conspirators directed clients to fill out fraudulent receipts. They also encouraged some clients to buy or sell dependents that could be used on tax returns.

When sentenced, Butler and Patterson each face a maximum sentence of five years, three years of supervised release, restitution, and other monetary penalties. Patterson also faces an additional maximum sentence of three years imprisonment for each count of aiding and assisting in the preparation of a false tax return.  

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.commended special agents of Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, who conducted the investigation, and Trial Attorneys Lauren Castaldi and Jessica Kraft of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, who prosecuted the case.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ANGEL PERILLOUX, age 39, of Ponchatoula, was sentenced on November 14, 2019 for obstruction of justice.

According to the court documents, PERILLOUX obstructed a federal grand jury investigation by soliciting individuals to remove evidence from an impounded vehicle.  PERILLOUX discussed several unsuccessful attempts to break into the vehicle on recorded jail calls.  Ultimately, at PERILLOUX’s direction, an employee of Cooper’s Salvage Yard and Wrecker Service removed a firearm and drug money from a vehicle and provided them to PERILLOUX. 

U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced PERILLOUX to (3) years probation, to include (6) months of home detention.  A $100 special assessment was also imposed. 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that FELIX ANTONIO SANCHEZ-GOMEZ, age 54, a citizen of the Republic of Panama, was sentenced on November 12, 2019 for possession of fraudulent immigration documents.

According to court documents, FELIX ANTONIO SANCHEZ-GOMEZ possessed a counterfeit Permanent Resident card.

U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter sentenced FELIX ANTONIO SANCHEZ-GOMEZ to time served, and one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. 

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that defendant PRENTISS CRAFT, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on November 14, 2019 before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown to being in receipt of a firearm while under indictment.

Specifically, CRAFT pled guilty to a one count Indictment charging him with 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).  CRAFT faces a maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, three years supervised release and a $100 special assessment fee.  CRAFT’S sentencing is scheduled for Thursday, February 20, 2020.    

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. 

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that STEVEN DUNCAN, age 46, of New Orleans, pled guilty on November 14, 2019 to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. 

According to court documents, in February 2018, STEVEN DUNCAN agreed to purchase heroin from two Houston-based suppliers, Carlos Gonzales Valencia and Alexander Muriel-Diaz. 

STEVEN DUNCAN faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years imprisonment, and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this case.  Assistant United States Attorneys Maria M. Carboni and Jonathan L. Shih are in charge of the prosecution.

 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ELIJAH CHARLES SORINA (“SORINA”), age 31, of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty on November 14, 2019 to Theft of Government Funds, announced United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser.

According to court records, SORINA continued to receive Social Security Administration (“SSA”) disability benefits after he claimed he was disabled and unable to work.  Federal special agents determined SORINA began working for a local transportation company as a school bus driver in 2014 after he obtained a commercial driver’s license.  SSA determined that from May 2014 until August 2016, SORINA received benefits of $19,897.00 to which he was not entitled because he concealed his employment from the SSA. 

SORINA will be sentenced on February 20, 2020, by Chief United States District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown.  He faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, and a $250,000.00 fine.

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.

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that GARRETT STEPHENS, age 36, of LaPlace, was sentenced on November 13, 2019 for one count of conspiracy to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, and one count of possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(c)(1)(A)(i).  STEPHENS pled guilty on April 3, 2019 to the above-described offenses. 

Judge Martin L.C. Feldman sentenced STEPHENS to a total of 211 months of imprisonment followed by 4 years of supervised release. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih and Nicholas D. Moses are in charge of the prosecution.

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

 

                                                                       

 

NEW ORLEANS –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that EDWIN WATSON, age 37, of LaPlace, was sentenced on November 14, 2019 for one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846, and one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A).  WATSON pled guilty on February 21, 2019 to the above-described offenses. 

Judge Barry W. Ashe sentenced WATSON to a total of 120 months of imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release. 

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih and Nicholas D. Moses are in charge of the prosecution.

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

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announces the guilty plea of TERRANCE NEALY, age 32, of Rockville Center, New York, to charges of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.  NEALY entered his plea on November 13, 2019 before U.S. District Judge Martin L.C. Feldman.

According to court documents, members of the Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force received information that NEALY and his co-defendant, Myles Nicholas, would be flying to New Orleans from New York on the morning of June 21, 2019.  Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies and U.S. Secret Service agents initiated surveillance at New Orleans International Airport, where they observed NEALY and Nicholas arrive on their flight from New York’s JFK Airport.  NEALY and Nicholas then rented a car and immediately drove to Baton Rouge.  While in Baton Rouge, the defendants attempted to open a fraudulent credit card account at two Best Buy stores using a stolen identity.  They then traveled back to New Orleans where they were arrested by state and federal law enforcement.

NEALY’S co-defendant Myles Nicholas’s re-arraignment is scheduled for November 20, 2019.

As to the charge of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, NEALY faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, a $1,000,000.00 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.  As to the aggravated identity theft, NEALY must receive a mandatory sentence of two years in prison that must be served consecutively to any other sentence.  He may also be fined up to $250,000.00, and he may receive up to one year of supervised release.  Sentencing is set for Wednesday, February 5, 2019, before Judge Feldman.

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, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. State Department, Internal Revenue Service, Social Security Administration-Office of Inspector General, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the New Orleans Police Department, the 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, and the St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney Matthew R. Payne is in charge of the prosecution.

 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MELVIN WALKER, age 47, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced for being a felon in possession of a firearm announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. WALKER was sentenced on November 13, 2019 to 115 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment by the Honorable Sarah Vance.

According to court documents, WALKER was convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, namely, possession with intent to distribute marijuana. On or about July 24, 2017, WALKER was found to be in the possession of four hand guns.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its work in investigating this case.

The case is being prosecuted by Michael M. Simpson, First Assistant United States Attorney and Assistant U.S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Supervisor, General Crimes.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – KHANH BUI, age 43, a resident of Westwego, Louisiana, pled guilty to mail fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. BUI will be sentenced on February 19, 2020 by the Honorable Susie Morgan.

According to court documents, BUI fraudulently obtained credit cards and false California driver’s licenses in order to obtain money and property from home improvement stores.

BUI faces 20 years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release.   

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service 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.

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that earlier today TROYNELL COOKS (“COOKS”), age 40, of Thibodaux, was sentenced to 77 months imprisonment by United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance for committing a bank robbery.  Additionally, COOKS was ordered to serve (3) years of supervised release and pay a $100.00 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, on October 29, 2018, COOKS entered the Hancock Bank located at 2421 St. Claude Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana.  COOKS handed a demand note to the teller with instructions to put money in an envelope because he had a gun and nothing to lose.  COOKS stood by a teller’s counter with his right hand in his pocket and gave the impression that he was armed with a firearm.  COOKS received some cash from the teller and exited the bank.  After a brief chase, law enforcement officials successfully apprehended COOKS not far from the bank’s location and recovered the stolen money.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the case. 

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that QUINTON RISIN, a/k/a “Quentin Risin,” age 36, of New Orleans, was sentenced today for conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. The Honorable Susie Morgan sentenced RISIN to 60 months imprisonment, (4) years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

According to court records, RISIN conspired with codefendant Arthur Johnson and others to distribute heroin throughout the New Orleans area. RISIN had been a customer of Johnson’s. The evidence against RISIN includes numerous intercepted communications, physical surveillance, and witness statements.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the FBI’s New Orleans Gang Task Force in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.                                                         

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that OMAR ELI PEREZ-MURCIA (“MURCIA”), age 35, was sentenced on November 12, 2019 for a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to documents signed by the defendant and filed in open court, MURCIA admitted to being a citizen of Honduras, and being illegally present in the United States.  He further admitted to illegally re-entering the United States after being deported in 2006.  U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter sentenced MURCIA to 15 months in federal prison and 1 year supervised release.  The Judge noted in open court that she was concerned over MURCIA’S three prior deportations.

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.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today the November 7, 2019 sentencing of CHRISTELLE SCHMIDT, age 65 of Thibodeaux, Louisiana on one count of violating Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(b), Bank larceny.  Schmidt previously pled guilty to the indictment, which was returned in November of 2018, and which alleged that SCHMIDT stole more than $550,000 from a local architectural firm while employed as a bookkeeper there.

Schmidt admitted in documents filed in open court that starting in 2007 and continuing through 2017, SCHMIDT committed the offense through a series of fraudulent activities. The indictment further alleged that she used two different schemes to purloin the funds, which were in the care, custody of and control of several federally insured banks in the New Orleans area.

The indictment further alleged that her second scheme involved charging personal expenses on company credit cards issued to her. She paid the credit card charges using the automated clearing house (ACH) accounts of the firm, without the permission of the firm.

SCHMIDT faced up to 10 years incarceration, a $250,000 fine and restitution and 3 years supervised release. The court sentenced her to 33 months in federal prison, 3 years supervised release, and $591,488 in restitution.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Secret Service in investigating the matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice Jr.

 

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WASHINGTON - Today, Attorney General William P. Barr announced the launch of Project Guardian, a new initiative designed to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws across the country. Specifically, Project Guardian focuses on investigating, prosecuting, and preventing gun crimes.

Reducing gun violence and enforcing federal firearms laws have always been among the Department’s highest priorities. In order to develop a new and robust effort to promote and ensure public safety, the Department reviewed and adapted some of the successes of past strategies to curb gun violence. Project Guardian draws on the Department’s earlier achievements, such as the “Triggerlock” program, and it serves as a complementary effort to the success of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). In addition, the initiative emphasizes the importance of using all modern technologies available to law enforcement to promote gun crime intelligence.

“Gun crime remains a pervasive problem in too many communities across America. Today, the Department of Justice is redoubling its commitment to tackling this issue through the launch of Project Guardian,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “Building on the success of past programs like Triggerlock, Project Guardian will strengthen our efforts to reduce gun violence by allowing the federal government and our state and local partners to better target offenders who use guns in crimes and those who try to buy guns illegally.”

“In recent history, Louisiana has ranked high in gun-related deaths among the 50 states,” said U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser, for the Eastern District of Louisiana.  The introduction of the Project Guardian strategic plan along with the DOJ initiative Project Safe Neighborhood in conjunction with state and local violent crime abatement programs, will give law enforcement the tools necessary to continue investigations and prosecutions into gun-related crimes in our communities and rid our great State of this ill-reputed distinction.  Our office remains eager to continue and enhance our collaboration among federal, state and local partners to reduce gun violence and increase public safety within our District.”

“ATF has a long history of strong partnerships in the law enforcement community,” said Acting Director Regina Lombardo. “Make no mistake, the women and men of ATF remain steadfast to our core mission of getting crime guns off of our streets. ATF and U.S. Attorneys nationwide will leverage these partnerships even further through enhanced community outreach initiatives and coordination with local, state, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to cut the pipeline of crime guns from those violent individuals who seek to terrorize our communities. Project Guardian will enhance ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence, to include identifying, investigating and prosecuting those involved in the straw purchases of firearms, lying on federal firearms transaction forms, and those subject to the mental health prohibition of possessing firearms.” 

Project Guardian’s implementation is based on five principles:

1. Coordinated Prosecution. Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will coordinate with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to consider potential federal prosecution for new cases involving a defendant who: a) was arrested in possession of a firearm; b) is believed to have used a firearm in committing a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime prosecutable in federal court; or c) is suspected of actively committing violent crime(s) in the community on behalf of a criminal organization.
    
2. Enforcing the Background Check System. United States Attorneys, in consultation with the Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in their district, will create new, or review existing, guidelines for intake and prosecution of federal cases involving false statements (including lie-and-try, lie-and-buy, and straw purchasers) made during the acquisition or attempted acquisition of firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees.
    
   Particular emphasis is placed on individuals convicted of violent felonies or misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence, individuals subject to protective orders, and individuals who are fugitives where the underlying offense is a felony or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; individuals suspected of involvement in criminal organizations or of providing firearms to criminal organizations; and individuals involved in repeat denials.
    
3. Improved Information Sharing. On a regular basis, and as often as practicable given current technical limitations, ATF will provide to state law enforcement fusion centers a report listing individuals for whom the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has issued denials, including the basis for the denial, so that state and local law enforcement can take appropriate steps under their laws.
    
4. Coordinated Response to Mental Health Denials. Each United States Attorney will ensure that whenever there is federal case information regarding individuals who are prohibited from possessing a firearm under the mental health prohibition, such information continues to be entered timely and accurately into the United States Attorneys’ Offices’ case-management system for prompt submission to NICS. ATF should engage in additional outreach to state and local law enforcement on how to use this denial information to better assure public safety. 
    
   Additionally, United States Attorneys will consult with relevant district stakeholders to assess feasibility of adopting disruption of early engagement programs to address mental-health-prohibited individuals who attempt to acquire a firearm. United States Attorneys should consider, when appropriate, recommending court-ordered mental health treatment for any sentences issued to individuals prohibited based on mental health.
    
5. Crime Gun Intelligence Coordination. Federal, state, local, and tribal prosecutors and law enforcement will work together to ensure effective use of the ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGICs), and all related resources, to maximize the use of modern intelligence tools and technology. These tools can greatly enhance the speed and effectiveness in identifying trigger-pullers and finding their guns, but the success depends in large part on state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners sharing ballistic evidence and firearm recovery data with the ATF.
    
   Federal law enforcement represents only about 15% of all law enforcement resources nationwide. Therefore, partnerships with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the communities they serve are critical to addressing gun crime. The Department recognizes that sharing information with our state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners at every level will enhance public safety, and provide a greater depth of resources available to address gun crime on a national level.  
    
    

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that WESLEY T. BISHOP, age 51, of New Orleans was charged today with making a false statement, a crime punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment.

According to the bill of information, BISHOP knowingly and willfully made a false statement to the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.  U.S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that a bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

If convicted, BISHOP faces a maximum sentence of five years, three years of supervised release, a restitution order, a fine, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.

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 –  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that COLBI TRENT DEFIORE, age 27, a resident of Carriere, Mississippi, was charged November 7, 2019 by a federal grand jury in a one-count indictment with intentionally accessing a protected computer in excess of authorization for the purpose of commercial advantage and private financial gain, and in furtherance of the commission of a felony, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 1030(a)(2)(C).

If convicted, DEFIORE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of up to $250,000, three years supervised release after imprisonment, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that on November 7, 2019, CHRISTOPER BONDY, age 39, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was indicted today by a Federal Grand Jury in a one count indictment, charging him with attempting to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. 

These charges stem from an investigation by Special Agents of the Department of Homeland Security and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office into the illegal activities of BONDY.

BONDY, if convicted, faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 5 years in prison and a maximum of 40 years in prison, a fine of not more than $5,000,000.00, and a four year term of supervised release on the drug charges, as to each count. 

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

The case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare is in charge of the prosecution.

 

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced that LORENZO CRUZ NUNEZ-MENA (“MENA”), age 36, was sentenced on October 3, 2019 to time served today to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a).  He was initially detained in May 2019 by authorities.

MENA, reentered the United States after he was previously deported on September 19, 2014.  MENA faced a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a fine of $250,000, a 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. Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that DR. ANDREW J. VAN ATTA, age 37, from Wasilla, Alaska, was charged today with wire fraud.

The government filed a one-count indictment that charged VAN ATTA with wire fraud, from January of 2017 through May of 2018. According to the indictment, starting in January of 2017, when VAN ATTA was a medical student, and continuing after he graduated, VAN ATTA used multiple email accounts and PayPal accounts to impersonate numerous other physicians while filling out surveys with a survey company that paid VAN ATTA for surveys that the victim company believed were completed by various other physicians. The company paid VAN ATTA over $114,000 for the surveys completed under the fake names.

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.

If convicted of these charges, VAN ATTA faces up to twenty years in prison, followed by up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain to VAN ATTA or the gross loss to any victims.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.

 

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that JOSE ARMANDO VILLALOBOS (“VILLALOBOS”), age 49, pleaded guilty on October 31, 2019 to a one-count indictment for preventing or hampering his departure from the United States after he was ordered removed by a U.S. Immigration Court in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1253(a)(1)(C).

According to the indictment, VILLALOBOS, who had an order of removal pending against him from a U.S. Immigration Court, hampered his removal when he fled immigration officers as they tried to arrest him on July 25, 2019.  VILLALOBOS, faces a maximum term of imprisonment of four years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.  Judge Nannette Brown set his sentencing for December 12, 2019.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter.  Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that AARON JEFFREY DENN, age 34, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana pled guilty on November 5, 2019 to conspiracy to distribute oxycodone. 

According to court documents, between March and April 2019, DENN conspired to distribute oxycodone pills, which he obtained unlawfully on the black market.  DENN faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000 and at least three years of supervised release. 

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 EDWIN DAVID PONCE-MATAMOROS, age 34, a citizen of Honduras, was charged October 31, 2019 in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of 8 U.S.C. ' 1326(a), (b)(1).

According to the indictment, federal agents encountered PONCE-MATAMOROS on or about October 10, 2019.  PONCE-MATAMOROS was previously removed from the United States on March 17, 2017. 

If convicted, PONCE-MATAMOROS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of three years, 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 Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter.  Assistant U. S. Attorney David Howard Sinkman is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced on Thursday, October 31, 2019 that MATTHEW BARRA, age 31, was charged in a one-count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.

BARRA is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1).  If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release.   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.

The case was investigated by the New Orleans Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, New Orleans Gang Task Force.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Melissa E. Bücher of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

 

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter Strasser announced today that JUAN ALBERTO SANCHEZ-ROMERO, age 28, pleaded guilty on October 29, 2019, to a one-count Indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) & (b)(2).

According to the Indictment, SANCHEZ-ROMERO re-entered the United States after he was previously deported on April 21, 2016. 

SANCHEZ-ROMERO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a maximum fine of $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of three years, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.  U.S. District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry set sentencing for January 28, 2020.    

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter.  Assistant U. S. Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that JORGE MEJIA-COLIN, age 28, a native of Mexico, pleaded guilty October 31, 2019 to a one-count bill of information charging him with illegal re-entry of a removed alien.

According to the court documents, MEJIA-COLIN was previously removed from the United States on September 30, 2008. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on July 24, 2019, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.

MEJIA-COLIN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 2 years, a fine of $250,000, one year of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee. U.S. District Judge Barry W. Ashe set sentencing for December 12, 2019.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.

 

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ADAM LUMPKIN, age 35, a resident of Hammond, Louisiana, pled guilty on October 22, 2019, to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine.

According to court documents, LUMPKIN possessed with intent to distribute methamphetamine in Hammond, Louisiana, on December 14, 2018. LUMPKIN faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. 

U.S. District Judge Greg Guidry set sentencing for LUMPKIN on January 28, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Hammond Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Paige O’Hale is in charge of the prosecution.

 

NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that DAVID HUNTER (“HUNTER”), age 23, of Metairie, pled guilty on October 30, 2019 to possession of stolen firearms in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(j) (Count 1), and being a prohibited person under indictment in possession of firearms in violation of 18 U.S.C.§ 922(n) (Count 2).

According to court documents, in December of 2016, HUNTER stole a gun safe that contained various firearms from a residence in Tylertown, Mississippi.  HUNTER then transported the firearms in interstate commerce to the Eastern District of Louisiana.  HUNTER possessed and transported the firearms after having been charged in Orleans Parish of state offenses that were punishable by terms of imprisonment exceeding one year.  Several firearms including a suppressor/silencer have not been recovered and are still missing.  The unrecovered firearms are listed below:

Item Description

Make

Model

Caliber

Serial Number

Pistol

Walther

P38

9 millimeter

Unknown

Rifle

Winchester

1892

38-40

180289

Rifle

Rock River Arms

AR-15

.223

Unknown

Pistol

Magnum Research

Desert Eagle

.50

36200016

Suppressor/Silencer

Tactical Innovation, Inc.

TAC 16

.223

1691150

 

The court set sentencing in this matter for February 4, 2020.  For Count 1, HUNTER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years and a $250,000 fine.  For Count 2, HUNTER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years and a $250,000 fine.  For each count, HUNTER faces up to 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.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Louisiana State Police.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the case.

Terry Knope, age 46, was sentenced to 336 months imprisonment today in the Eastern District of Louisiana for conspiring with other members of his family to obtain forced, unpaid household labor and services from D.P., an adult woman with cognitive disabilities, for assaulting D.P. and violating her federal Fair Housing Act rights because of her disabilities, and for helping others manufacture methamphetamine on his property.

“The revolting, disgusting, and depraved criminal acts of the defendant and his co-conspirators have no place in our nation or in any civilized place,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband.  “This case should serve as a warning:  human traffickers will be brought to justice and punished severely.  The Department of Justice will continue to fight and prosecute all forms of human trafficking, and the Department’s Civil Rights Division will continue to seek justice for the most vulnerable in our society.”

“Today’s sentence concludes the prosecution of one most appalling acts of depravity this District has seen in recent memory. Terry Knope along with co-conspirators, Bridget Lambert and Raylaine Knope, participated in truly horrific crimes against one of the most susceptible members of our society. I hope that the conclusion of this case will bring a measure of justice and finality to the victim,” said Eastern District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. “Our office, along with the Department of Justice, state and local investigative agencies are committed to seeking justice on behalf of all victims including vulnerable individuals such as D.P.”

“The sentence handed down today to Terry Knope is most fitting for his appalling actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan A. Vorndran of FBI New Orleans. “The conditions and torment the victim endured were simply unfathomable; no human deserves such treatment.  Protecting the civil rights of all persons within the United States remains a cornerstone of the FBI’s mission.”

On May 20, Knope pleaded guilty to one count of forced labor conspiracy, one count of violating D.P.’s federal Fair Housing Act rights, one count of a Hate Crime, and one count of misprision of a felony. At his plea hearing, Knope admitted that, between Aug. 13, 2015, and June 30, 2016, in Amite, Louisiana, he conspired with other family members to obtain D.P.’s uncompensated household labor and services through a number of means, including by force, threats of force, and physical restraint. Knope admitted that he forced D.P. to live in a locked backyard cage and to perform housework and yard work in exchange for food and water. He further admitted that he and his co-conspirators subjected D.P. to routine physical abuse, threats, and verbal and psychological abuse designed to ensure D.P.’s continued compliance with the family’s orders. As examples of this abuse, the defendant admitted that he once intentionally burned D.P. with a cigarette lighter while another family member held D.P. in place so she could not escape. Knope further admitted that, because of D.P.’s disability, he forced D.P. to live in the locked backyard cage and shot her with a B.B. gun at close range, and that he also helped others produce methamphetamine on his property.   

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Field Office in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office. The case has been prosecuted by Trial Attorney Risa Berkower of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Assistant United States Attorney Julia Evans of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and by the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office.

WASHINGTON – Terry Knope, age 46, was sentenced to 336 months imprisonment today in the Eastern District of Louisiana for conspiring with other members of his family to obtain forced, unpaid household labor and services from D.P., an adult woman with cognitive disabilities, for assaulting D.P. and violating her federal Fair Housing Act rights because of her disabilities, and for helping others manufacture methamphetamine on his property.

“The revolting, disgusting, and depraved criminal acts of the defendant and his co-conspirators have no place in our nation or in any civilized place,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband.  “This case should serve as a warning:  human traffickers will be brought to justice and punished severely.  The Department of Justice will continue to fight and prosecute all forms of human trafficking, and the Department’s Civil Rights Division will continue to seek justice for the most vulnerable in our society.”

“Today’s sentence concludes the prosecution of one most appalling acts of depravity this District has seen in recent memory. Terry Knope along with co-conspirators, Bridget Lambert and Raylaine Knope, participated in truly horrific crimes against one of the most susceptible members of our society. I hope that the conclusion of this case will bring a measure of justice and finality to the victim,” said Eastern District of Louisiana U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser. “Our office, along with the Department of Justice, state and local investigative agencies are committed to seeking justice on behalf of all victims including vulnerable individuals such as D.P.”

“The sentence handed down today to Terry Knope is most fitting for his appalling actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Bryan A. Vorndran of FBI New Orleans. “The conditions and torment the victim endured were simply unfathomable; no human deserves such treatment.  Protecting the civil rights of all persons within the United States remains a cornerstone of the FBI’s mission.”

On May 20, Knope pleaded guilty to one count of forced labor conspiracy, one count of violating D.P.’s federal Fair Housing Act rights, one count of a Hate Crime, and one count of misprision of a felony. At his plea hearing, Knope admitted that, between Aug. 13, 2015, and June 30, 2016, in Amite, Louisiana, he conspired with other family members to obtain D.P.’s uncompensated household labor and services through a number of means, including by force, threats of force, and physical restraint. Knope admitted that he forced D.P. to live in a locked backyard cage and to perform housework and yard work in exchange for food and water. He further admitted that he and his co-conspirators subjected D.P. to routine physical abuse, threats, and verbal and psychological abuse designed to ensure D.P.’s continued compliance with the family’s orders. As examples of this abuse, the defendant admitted that he once intentionally burned D.P. with a cigarette lighter while another family member held D.P. in place so she could not escape. Knope further admitted that, because of D.P.’s disability, he forced D.P. to live in the locked backyard cage and shot her with a B.B. gun at close range, and that he also helped others produce methamphetamine on his property.   

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Field Office in New Orleans, Louisiana, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office. The case has been prosecuted by Trial Attorney Risa Berkower of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Assistant United States Attorney Julia Evans of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, and by the Tangipahoa Parish District Attorney’s Office.

 

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ARMANDO ENRIQUEZ-MORA, age 38, a citizen of Mexico, was charged October 29, 2019 in a one-count bill of information with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of 8 U.S.C. ' 1326.

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.

If convicted, ARMANDO ENRIQUEZ-MORA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, one year supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.

U. S. Attorney Strasser reiterated that a bill of information 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 Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Irene González is in charge of the prosecution.

 

                                                                        *   *   *

 

WASHINGTON - A resident of Orleans Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States with regard to tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana.

According to court documents, Carlanda Allegra Isaac worked for Pelican Income Tax and Bookkeeping Services LLC, located in Bridge City and Kenner, Louisiana, and then later at another tax preparation business called Taxes by J.A.D.A., which was located in New Orleans. Isaac and others conspired to defraud the United States by falsifying client tax returns to include false income, withholding, education credits, in order to fraudulently inflate the clients’ tax refunds. Isaac charged a fee for preparing these returns, which was often deducted from the client’s refund.  

When sentenced, Isaac faces a maximum sentence of five years, three years of supervised release, restitution, and other monetary penalties.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division for its work in investigating this case.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Lauren Castaldi, Department of Justice Tax Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice.

A resident of Orleans Parish, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States with regard to tax returns, announced Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Richard E. Zuckerman of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana.

According to court documents, Carlanda Allegra Isaac worked for Pelican Income Tax and Bookkeeping Services LLC, located in Bridge City and Kenner, Louisiana, and then later at another tax preparation business called Taxes by J.A.D.A., which was located in New Orleans. Isaac and others conspired to defraud the United States by falsifying client tax returns to include false income, withholding, education credits, in order to fraudulently inflate the clients’ tax refunds. Isaac charged a fee for preparing these returns, which was often deducted from the client’s refund.  

When sentenced, Isaac faces a maximum sentence of five years, three years of supervised release, restitution, and other monetary penalties.

Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Zuckerman and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Eastern District of Louisiana praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division for its work in investigating this case.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Lauren Castaldi, Department of Justice Tax Division, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter Guice.

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that KEVIN RICHARDSON age 56, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Susie Morgan, to one count of violating Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1952(a)(3) and 2, use of an interstate facility with intent to carry on unlawful activity.

According to the court documents, RICHARDSON was employed as a building inspector for the City of New Orleans and utilized the internet-based City of New Orleans’ LAMA system to alter and/or delete city documents and submit material information.  He solicited and accepted approximately $65,000 in bribe payments from individuals seeking favorable inspection reports and certificates of completion for properties that did not comply with the city and state building codes and for properties that had not been inspected.  He also paid bribe money to a City of New Orleans permit analyst for the issuance of permits without proper documentation and plan review.

RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of not more than $250,000, three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on February 4, 2020.

This matter was handled by the City of New Orleans Office of Inspector General, Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Tracey N. Knight is prosecuting the matter.

NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that TRISH CHRISTOPHER, age 35, a resident of Metairie, Louisiana, was charged on October 24, 2019 in one-count Indictment for aiding and assisting in the preparation of false federal tax returns, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2). 

According to court documents, CHRISTOPHER owned and operated C.C. Tax Service, located in New Orleans, Louisiana. In order to falsely inflate her clients’ tax refunds, CHRISTOPHER prepared and caused to be prepared at least 36 individual income tax returns that included false or fictitious Schedule A itemized deductions. 

If convicted, the defendant faces up to three years of imprisonment and a possible $100,000 fine.

U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division, for its work in investigating this case. 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.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shirin Hakimzadeh.

 

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NEW ORLEANS -  U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that KEITH CRAIG (“CRAIG”), age 58, of LaPlace, pled guilty on October 22, 2019 to falsifying documents related to a federal Small Business Administration (SBA) loan, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001 before United States District Court Judge Greg G. Guidry.

According to court documents, the defendant applied for an SBA loan after Hurricane Isaac impacted Louisiana in 2012.  CRAIG owned a residence in LaPlace, Louisiana and applied for and received approximately $160,000 SBA loan proceeds to repair damages to his residence allegedly caused by Hurricane Isaac.  In support of the SBA loan, CRAIG submitted fraudulent documentation and statements related to his annual income and the repairs performed on his LaPlace residence. 

The Court set sentencing in this matter for January 28, 2020.  CRAIG faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a maximum $250,000 fine, up to three (3) years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Office of Inspector General for the Small Business Administration on investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans is prosecuting the case. 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that JERRY PEA, age 43, a resident of Hammond, Louisiana, was sentenced on October 23, 2019 to serve a total of 138 months in federal prison for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and the Federal Gun Control Act.   

PEA and his co-defendant, James Jackson, were indicted by the Federal Grand Jury back on July 12, 2018.  This indictment was the result of a drug investigation that was led by the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Hammond Police Department.

Defendant James Jackson pled guilty as charged and was sentenced to serve 73 months in federal prison back on June 26, 2019.

Defendant PEA was sentenced to serve 78 months for participating in a conspiracy to distribute both heroin and crack cocaine.  He was also sentenced to serve an additional 60 months for possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities.  His total sentence was 138 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release once he is released from prison.

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

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that MANUEL LIRA-RIVERA, age 35, a native of Mexico, pleaded guilty October 23, 2019 to illegally using a Social Security number in order to obtain employment, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

According to court documents, LIRA-RIVERA submitted an application to obtain employment with Company “A.” During the application process, he presented a fraudulent United States Social Security card in the name of R.L.A. (a male) which contained the Social Security number of A.E.E. (a female) ending in 6757, which he represented to be his own. An employee suspected that the Social Security card was fraudulent and law enforcement was contacted. LIRA-RIVERA admitted that his real name was not R.L.A. and that the Social Security number ending in 6757 did not belong to him.

LIRA-RIVERA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of not more than five (5) years, a fine of $250,000.00, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. United States District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing for December 18, 2019.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of United States Customs and Border Protection, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and Social Security Administration agents in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.

 

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NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that SUZANNE C. MAY, age 61, of Mandeville was charged October 22, 2019 by a Bill of Information with conspiracy to alter or falsify records in connection with a federal investigation, namely, a Medicare audit of a hospice facility located in New Orleans, identified in court documents as Company 1.

According to court documents, MAY was a registered nurse in the State of Louisiana and served as the administrator of Company 1.  In 2015, Medicare audited Company 1 and concluded that Company 1 did not have the proper patient documentation to justify Company 1’s level of billing for hospice services.  As a result, Medicare reversed all the claims for hospice services under review in that audit, which amounted to $383,107.26.  In connection with that audit, Medicare sent an education letter to MAY regarding what was required of Company 1 in order to bill for hospice services. 

In August 2017, Medicare performed another audit of Company 1 and requested patient documentation for 99 beneficiaries for whom Company 1 submitted claims for purportedly providing hospice care services.  MAY was in charge of gathering the documents requested by the August 2017 audit.  After reviewing Company 1’s files for these beneficiaries, MAY understood that Company 1 did not have the required records to justify Company 1’s billings to Medicare for purported hospice care services for the claims under review.

According to court documents, between August 2017 and October 2017, MAY and other employees of Company 1, altered, amended, and falsified patient records to hide the fact that Company 1 lacked required medical records to justify bills submitted to Medicare for purported hospice services for the beneficiaries at issue in the audit.  Court documents detail an instance where MAY placed whiteout on one patient record and created a note on that record indicating that she treated that patient as a nurse in November 2014, when she had not done so.  MAY caused all these falsified patient records to be submitted to Medicare in response to the August 2017 audit so that Company 1 would pass the Medicare audit.  Despite the falsifications, Medicare still determined that Company 1’s patient records were still largely deficient.    

If convicted, MAY faces a possible maximum sentence of 5 years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years supervised release in addition to a $100 special assessment.

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.

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

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

 

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today the Indictment of DAMIAN K. LABEAUD (“LABEAUD”), age 47, of New Orleans and LUCINDA THOMAS (“THOMAS”), age 63, MARY WADE (“WADE”), age 55, JUDY WILLIAMS (“WILLIAMS”), age 59, and DASHONTAE YOUNG (“YOUNG”), age 25, all of Houma, Louisiana. These five defendants were charged in a six-count federal indictment with one (1) count of Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371 and five (5) counts of Wire Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343. If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of five (5) years for Count 1 and twenty (20) years as to Counts 2-6. Upon their release from prison, each defendant can be placed on a term of supervised release up to five (5) years and fined up to $250,000.00 per count.

According to the Indictment, on June 6, 2017, THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG drove from Houma, LA, to meet with LABEAUD for the purpose of staging an automobile accident in order to obtain money through fraud. After their meeting, THOMAS, WADE, 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, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG contacted the New Orleans Police Department (“NOPD”) and falsely reported that THOMAS had been the driver of the Avalanche and that the traitor-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 the Indictment, before and after the staged accident, LABEAUD contacted Attorney A and arranged a meeting with THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG at a fast food restaurant on Chef Menteur Highway. It is further alleged in the Indictment 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 WILLIAMS. Attorney A then filed two lawsuits in the Civil District Court (“CDC”) for the Parish of Orleans. Both of the lawsuits filed in CDC by Attorney A were removed to the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana. The Indictment alleges that THOMAS, WADE, and WILLIAMS each provided 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 WILLIAMS settle their cases for $7,500.00 each. Each of these five defendants are charged with substantive counts of Wire Fraud based on settlement payments issued by the victim trucking company.

THOMAS, WADE, WILLIAMS, and YOUNG were ordered to appear for an initial appearance and arraignment on this Indictment. LABEAUD was arrested today by special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation after the indictment was returned by the Grand Jury.

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, and Trial Attorney Jared Hasten of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Fraud Section, Health Care Fraud Unit.

 

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that KAMAL AL JAWHARI, age 28, a native of Lebanon, was charged Friday, October 18, 2019 in a two-count indictment with illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A).

According to the Indictment, on or about October 3, 2019, JAWHARI, an alien present illegally in the United States, was found in possession of a Taurus 9mm pistol and a Winchester 12 gauge shotgun.

If convicted, AL JAWHARI faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release.

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 Immigration and Customs Enforcement agency in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis is in charge of the prosecution.

 

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United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser wants to encourage the public to participate in the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) 17th National Prescription Drug Takeback Day on Saturday, October 26, 2019. The event is an effort to rid homes of potentially dangerous expired, unused, and unwanted prescription drugs and will be held from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., at thousands of collection sites around the country, including several here in the Eastern District of Louisiana. 

Rates of prescription drug abuse in the United States continue to be alarmingly high, as are the number of accidental poisonings and overdoses due to these drugs.  The majority of prescription drug abusers say they get their drugs free from friends and family, including from the home medicine cabinet.  Take Back Day is a unique opportunity for Americans to protect their homes and medicine cabinets from theft and abuse.

For the first time, DEA will now accept vaping devices and cartridges at any of its drop off locations during National Prescription Drug Take Back Day. It is important to note that DEA cannot accept devices containing lithium ion batteries. If batteries cannot be removed prior to drop-off, DEA encourages individuals to consult with stores that recycle lithium ion batteries.

 “DEA’s National Drug Take Back Initiative is one of the most important tools in combating the prescription drug abuse epidemic, stated U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.  “Not only does this program prevent unwanted or expired prescription drugs from flooding our communities and landing in the wrong hands, it protects our environment by offering a safe alternative disposal method.”

“Prescription drugs often end up in the wrong hands, feeding an epidemic that kills more Americans than car accidents. DEA’s Take Back Initiative provides citizens an easy and safe way to dispose of unused and unwanted prescription medications. This year, we are taking it a step further by accepting vaping devices and cartridges as we work with our federal partners to combat this emerging public health threat to the nation’s youth,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brad L. Byerley.

Over the past 10 years, DEA has collected a total of nearly 11 million pounds (more than 5,400 tons) of expired, unused, and unwanted prescription medications through its Take Back Day events.  This weekend, approximately 6,000 collection sites will be manned by nearly 5,000 partner law enforcement agencies.  The service is free and anonymous. 

In the New Orleans Field Division, the following amounts were collected last April:  Louisiana – 7,046 pounds; Mississippi – 3,753 pounds; Alabama – 6,800 pounds; and Arkansas – 28,073 pounds. 

For more information or to locate updated collection sites near you, please go the DEA Prescription Drug Take Back Day web site at https://takebackday.dea.gov/#collection-locator  where you can search by zip code, city, or state.

DEA Take Back Day PSA:  https://youtu.be/KH5lF8gzm9s

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that on October 3, 2019, KENNIE SANTOS-PAYANO, age 24, a resident of Kissimmee, Florida, was indicted by the Federal Grand Jury in a one count indictment, charging him with possession with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride. 

On September 25, 2019, a Louisiana State Police Trooper conducted a traffic stop in Madisonville, St. Tammany Parish, Louisiana, on Interstate 12 eastbound on a vehicle bearing a Florida license plate.  The stop was based on a traffic violation.  The trooper identified the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle as SANTOS-PAYANO.

Shortly after the traffic stop, troopers deployed a trained and qualified K-9 drug detection dog, and the dog performed a free air sniff test on the exterior of SANTOS-PAYANO’s vehicle.  The K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in the vehicle.  A subsequent search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 9.34 kilograms of a white powdery substance that tested positive for the presence of cocaine hydrochloride on the floorboard of the vehicle.

SANTOS-PAYANO, if convicted, faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. 

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

The case was investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the Louisiana State Police. Assistant United States Attorney Bayonle Osundare is in charge of the prosecution.

 

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – NATHANIEL LOUIS, age 45, of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced on October 17, 2019 before the Honorable Carl J. Barbier for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser.

According to the court records, LOUIS had previously pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute and to possession with the intent to distribute heroin.  The case resulted from a lengthy Title III wire intercept investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration in which LOUIS and his co-conspirators were captured discussing heroin sales, making sales, and arranging to pay back heroin sources of supply in Chicago.  A search warrant at LOUIS’s apartment led to the seizure of approximately ¼ kilogram of heroin. 

Judge Barbier sentenced LOUIS to 50 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release, where federal probation officers will monitor his behavior.

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

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NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that on Thursday, October 17, 2019, JOHN L. MURRAY, age 66, was sentenced to 41 months imprisonment by United States District Judge Eldon E. Fallon for violating federal law by committing a bank robbery at the Hancock Whitney Bank in New Orleans.  Additionally, MURRAY was ordered to pay $500 in restitution, serve (3) years of supervised release and pay a 100.00 special assessment fee.

According to court documents, MURRAY robbed the Hancock Whitney Bank located at 2421 St. Claude Avenue in New Orleans, Louisiana on February 13, 2019.   He presented two hand written demand notes to the bank teller and requested five $100 dollar bills in U.S. currency from the bank teller.  MURRAY was apprehended on February 17, 2019.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.

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NEW ORLEANS – United States Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that ALVARO JOSE MEZA-GONZALEZ, (MEZA-GONZALEZ), age 39, pled guilty on October 17, 2019     before United States District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier,  to a one-count bill of information charging him with misuse of a Social Security Number, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B).

According to court documents, MEZA-GONZALEZ, a citizen of Nicaragua, presented a false Social Security card when attending a pre-employment safety class at the Gulf Coast Safety Council in St. Rose, Louisiana. MEZA-GONZALEZ falsely represented that a social security number was assigned to him when in fact, the social security number had been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to another individual.

MEZA-GONZALEZ faces a possible sentence up to five (5) years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000 and one (1) year of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  United States District Court Judge Barbier set sentencing for January 23, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Peter G.  Strasser praised the work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, United States Border Patrol and the Office of Inspector General, Social Security Administration.  Assistant United States Attorney Julia K. Evans is in charge of the prosecution.