Eastern District of Louisiana

A federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Louisiana has returned a 12-count indictment charging Carlos Alberto Zelaya Rojas with money laundering violations, impairing the court’s jurisdiction over property subject to forfeiture, impeding an official proceeding, and perjury.  Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Deputy Director Thomas D. Homan of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) made the announcement.

 

According to the indictment, Carlos Zelaya, 47, a citizen of Honduras who was residing in the New Orleans area, conspired with his brother, the former Executive Director of the Honduran Institute of Social Security, and others, to launder over $1.3 million in bribe payments.  These bribes were paid by two Honduran businessmen for the benefit of the Executive Director.  The funds were then laundered into the New Orleans area through international wire transfers and used to purchase real estate.  As part of the conspiracy, Carlos Zelaya also used his brother’s high-ranking official position to profit from lucrative Honduran government contracts and then laundered the misappropriated funds into the New Orleans area.  Zelaya was arrested earlier today and had his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel E. Knowles III, who ordered him to remain in custody pending his detention hearing on May 3.

 

The indictment also charges Carlos Zelaya with spending rental income from properties purchased with the proceeds of foreign corruption while he was under a court order to preserve the funds pending resolution of a federal forfeiture action.  Additionally, the indictment charges that Carlos Zelaya impeded an official proceeding when he lied to the U.S. government about the source of the funds used to purchase the New Orleans-area properties, and further, that he committed perjury when he lied to a federal judge in the Eastern District of Louisiana about the rental income.

 

An indictment is merely an accusation.  All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

 

The investigation was conducted by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans and Miami.  The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Stephen A. Gibbons, Marybeth Grunstra, and Michael B. Redmann of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

 

This case was brought under the Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative by a team of prosecutors in the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, working in partnership with federal law enforcement agencies, dedicated to prosecuting those who facilitate foreign official corruption which affects the U.S. financial system, forfeiting assets purchased with the proceeds of that corruption, and, where appropriate, repatriating the forfeited corruption proceeds for the benefit of the people of the country harmed by the abuse of public office.  Individuals with information about possible proceeds of foreign corruption located in or laundered through the United States should contact federal law enforcement or send an email to kleptocracy@usdoj.gov.

WASHINGTON – A federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Louisiana has returned a 12-count indictment charging Carlos Alberto Zelaya Rojas with money laundering violations, impairing the court’s jurisdiction over property subject to forfeiture, impeding an official proceeding, and perjury.  Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Deputy Director Thomas D. Homan of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) made the announcement.

According to the indictment, Carlos Zelaya, 47, a citizen of Honduras who was residing in the New Orleans area, conspired with his brother, the former Executive Director of the Honduran Institute of Social Security, and others, to launder over $1.3 million in bribe payments.  These bribes were paid by two Honduran businessmen for the benefit of the Executive Director.  The funds were then laundered into the New Orleans area through international wire transfers and used to purchase real estate.  As part of the conspiracy, Carlos Zelaya also used his brother’s high-ranking official position to profit from lucrative Honduran government contracts and then laundered the misappropriated funds into the New Orleans area.  Zelaya was arrested earlier today and had his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daniel E. Knowles III, who ordered him to remain in custody pending his detention hearing on May 3.

The indictment also charges Carlos Zelaya with spending rental income from properties purchased with the proceeds of foreign corruption while he was under a court order to preserve the funds pending resolution of a federal forfeiture action.  Additionally, the indictment charges that Carlos Zelaya impeded an official proceeding when he lied to the U.S. government about the source of the funds used to purchase the New Orleans-area properties, and further, that he committed perjury when he lied to a federal judge in the Eastern District of Louisiana about the rental income.

An indictment is merely an accusation.  All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

The investigation was conducted by ICE Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New Orleans and Miami.  The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Stephen A. Gibbons, Marybeth Grunstra, and Michael B. Redmann of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

This case was brought under the Kleptocracy Asset Recovery Initiative by a team of prosecutors in the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, working in partnership with federal law enforcement agencies, dedicated to prosecuting those who facilitate foreign official corruption which effects the U.S. financial system, forfeiting assets purchased with the proceeds of that corruption, and, where appropriate, repatriating the forfeited corruption proceeds for the benefit of the people of the country harmed by the abuse of public office.  Individuals with information about possible proceeds of foreign corruption located in or laundered through the United States should contact federal law enforcement or send an email to kleptocracy@usdoj.gov.

 

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18-558

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the unsealing of an indictment against WAYNE JEROME CELESTINE, age 57, a physician who practices in Gretna, Louisiana and resides in the New Orleans area.  On Monday, April 30, 2018, DR. CELESTINE was arrested on charges of distribution of controlled substances.  According to court records, DR. CELESTINE illegally dispensed and conspired with others to illegally dispense controlled substances, including oxycodone, oxycodone/acetaminophen, oxycontin HCL, oxymorphone HCL, hydromorphone, opana, fentanyl, suboxone, and morphine sulfate, a Schedule II drug controlled substances; hydrocodone/acetaminophen, a Schedule III drug controlled substance until October 6, 2014, thereafter, a Schedule II drug controlled substance; and alprazolam, diazepam, and carisoprodol, Schedule IV drug controlled substances.   

CELESTINE made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge Daniel E. Knowles, III, on Monday, April 30, 2018.  A detention hearing is scheduled for May 1, 2018.

If convicted of the charge in the criminal complaint, CELESTINE will face a maximum of not more than 20 years in prison on the drug conspiracy charge, pursuant to Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 846.  CELESTINE will also be subject to a fine of not more than one million dollars and a minimum term of supervised release of three years, following any term of imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Internal Revenue Service, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Harahan Police Department, Westwego Police Department, Louisiana State Police, St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office, New Orleans Police Department, and New Orleans District Attorney’s Office in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney John F. Murphy is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that last evening, after a four-day trial, a jury returned guilty verdicts against DWAYNE WINANS, JR., a/k/a “Butter”, age 24, and BRYSON TUESNO, age 23.

The jury found WINANS guilty of committing two carjackings, on August 12, 2016 in New Orleans, and two counts of using firearms during the commission of those crimes.

The jury also found WINANS and TUESNO guilty of robbing on August 15, 2016, both the Regions Bank located at 3836 Elysian Fields Avenue in New Orleans and the Gulf Coast Bank located at 1900 Oak Harbor Boulevard in Slidell. The men were also convicted of two counts of using firearms during the commission of those crimes.

U.S. District Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown has not yet set a sentencing date. WINANS faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 82 years imprisonment and a maximum of life, and TUESNO faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 32 years imprisonment and a maximum of life.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorneys Michael McMahon, Jeff Sandman, and David Howard Sinkman are in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JESUS MATEHUALA-CABALLERO, a/k/a Francisco Rodriguez, age 40, a resident of Amite, pleaded guilty before the Honorable Carl J. Barbier to a two count indictment charging him with fraud and misuse of a social security card and resident alien card, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1546(a).

According to the court documents, on or about July 10, 2015, JESUS MATEHUALA-CABALLERO, used a fraudulent a social security card and fraudulent resident alien card for the purposes of obtaining employment knowing that he had never been lawfully issued a Social Security card or a resident alien card.

JESUS MATEHUALA-CABALLERO will be sentenced on July 12, 2018.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter.   The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily K. Greenfield.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JAMIRON BARNES, a/k/a “Miron,” a/k/a “Myron,” age 22 and SEAN BRIGGS, a/k/a “Big Sean,” a/k/a “Big C,” age 33, have both pled guilty today. BARNES and BRIGGS pled guilty to one count of Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A).  The defendants face a mandatory minimum of 5 years imprisonment up to life imprisonment, 5 years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, a $250,000.00 fine, and $100.00 special assessment fee.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the continued coordinated effort of the federal and state law enforcement authorities, including the United States Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Orleans Gang Task Force, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth Privitera is in charge of the prosecution.

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.   Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.   In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that FRANCISCO MEDARDO-SANTOS, age 32, a native of El Salvador, pleaded guilty yesterday to illegal use of a Social Security number.  MEDARDO-SANTOS, who is not a citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the United States, applied for employment with a local business using a false permanent resident card and another person’s Social Security card.  On a federal employment eligibility verification form, MEDARDO-SANTOS falsely claimed to be this other person, falsely claimed to be a lawful permanent resident, and falsely claimed that the person’s Social Security number was his own.  MEDARDO-SANTOS faces up to five years imprisonment at his sentencing, which is set for July 18, 2018, before Chief Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement – Enforcement and Removal Operations in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Chandra Menon is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DERRELL JOSEPH, age 38, of Reserve, pled guilty today to charges relating to narcotics trafficking and illegal possession of firearms.

According to court documents, JOSEPH possessed with the intent to distribute at least 100 grams of heroin. For that charge, JOSEPH faces a term of imprisonment of at least five and up to forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, 

JOSEPH also pled guilty to possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. JOSEPH possessed a Glock Model 19, 9 mm semi-automatic pistol. For the firearms charge, JOSEPH faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years, which must run consecutive to any other sentence, and a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, and up to five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. 

Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing for July 26, 2018.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicholas D. Moses and Jeffrey K. Sandman are in charge of the prosecution.

 

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RUFINO MEJIA-ACOSTA, a/k/a Miguel A. Pacheco-Gonzalez (MEJIA-ACOSTA), age 38, a citizen of Mexico, residing in Chalmette, Louisiana, was sentenced today after having previously pleading guilty to illegal use of a social security number.

U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon sentenced MEJIA-ACOSTA to time served, to be followed by, one (1) year of supervised release, and $100 Mandatory Special Assessment Fee.

According to court documents, on July 3, 2017, MEJIA-ACOSTA, for the purpose of obtaining employment and for other purposes, knowingly and with intent to deceive, did falsely represent on a US Citizenship and Immigration Services Employment Eligibility Verification Form that a Social Security Number not issued to him, was assigned to him

U.S. Attorney Evans 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.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JERRY R. NEWTON, age 54, of Slidell, Louisiana was charged yesterday by a Bill of Information for Theft of Government Funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641.

According to the Bill of Information, NEWTON applied for Social Security disability benefits under Title II of the Social Security Act.  A person receiving disability benefits must truthfully disclose to the Social Security Administration any employment or income while getting the government money.  In forms submitted to the SSA, NEWTON failed to disclose that he was the paid pastor of Bogalusa Baptist Church since May of 2007 and that he owned two businesses, Still Dreaming Graphics, LLC and Kclean Sweep, a cleaning service.  Due to his concealing of his salary and income produced from his businesses, NEWTON received a total of $95,316 in DIB benefits to which he was not entitled.

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

If convicted, NEWTON faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment, as well as restitution to the Social Security Administration

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General.  The prosecution of this case is being handled by Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. Assistant U.S. Attorney.

 

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LESTER MALAVA, age 57, of New Orleans, was sentenced today by the Honorable Kurt D. Engelhardt, Chief Judge of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, for bank robbery.

According to court papers, MALAVA robbed the Capital One Bank at 3540 St. Charles Avenue in New Orleans on August 21, 2017.  MALAVA was identified on an FBI tip line and later turned himself in to authorities.  Chief Judge Engelhardt sentenced MALAVA to 12 months in prison and three years of supervised release.  MALAVA was also ordered to repay $3,500 to Capital One Bank.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA –U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that STEPHEN J. SCOTT, age 31, was indicted for one count of Bank Robbery in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).  The defendant is alleged to have robbed the First American Bank and Trust at 1800 Veterans Boulevard, Metairie, Louisiana, on April 9, 2018.

If convicted, SCOTT faces a maximum of twenty years in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release following his release from prison.

The U.S. Attorney also advises that an indictment is only a charging document, and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the hard work of the FBI’s Violent Crime Unit and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.  The case is being handled by AUSA Myles Ranier.  

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RESHAD FRANK, age 40, of Reserve, was sentenced today for charges relating to narcotics trafficking. 

FRANK pled guilty on October 12, 2017, to conspiring to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride.

Judge Jane Triche Milazzo sentenced FRANK to 60 months in the Bureau of Prisons, as well as 3 years of supervised release following the term of imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas D. Moses is in charge of the prosecution.

 

 U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ANITRA SMITH, age 37, a resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today to a one-count bill of information with assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers or employees, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 111(a).

According to the bill of information, SMITH assaulted an employee of the U.S. Postal Service while that person was on duty. SMITH faces a maximum term of imprisonment of one year, a maximum fine of $100,000, a maximum term of supervised release of one year, and a mandatory $25 special assessment.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney J. Ryan McLaren is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that GARRET TEMPLETON, age 33, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to participating in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy throughout the New Orleans area.  Specifically, TEMPLETON pled guilty to conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine.  TEMPLETON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum life sentence, a fine of up to $10,000,000 and at least five years of supervised release.  

U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing for TEMPLETON on July 18, 2018.

According to court documents, during the timeframe of this conspiracy, codefendant Steven LYONS was a major methamphetamine distributor in the New Orleans area.  LYONS obtained methamphetamine by U.S. Mail and other means from several sources, including codefendants Carlos Mario CANTU-COX and Christopher CANTU-COX in Texas (who also supplied Anna THOMPSON); Eric WILLIS in Texas; Trung PHAM in California; and TEMPLETON in Louisiana.   Codefendants Tommy WELLS, Clark McALPIN, Dwayne CLAUSE, and Dawn CONRAVEY acted as sellers or brokers of methamphetamine for LYONS in the New Orleans area. 

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Louisiana State Police, Amtrak Police, and St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Brandon Long is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TERRELL MUSE, age 24 of New Orleans, was indicted April 12 by a federal grand jury.

According to the indictment, MUSE, a convicted felon, illegally possessed two firearms and quantities of crack cocaine and heroin. If convicted on the charges, MUSE faces a term of imprisonment of up to 10 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

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

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.   Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.   In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.

This case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey Sandman is in charge of the prosecution.

 

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ERNESTO CONTRERAS-REYES, age 42, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today after pleading guilty to a one-count indictment charging him with illegal use of a Social Security number.

U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced CONTRERAS-REYES to time served, and he was placed on supervised release for one year.  Following the completion of his sentence, CONTRERAS-REYES will be surrendered to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for removal proceedings.

U.S. Attorney Evans 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.

 

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOACOBO JOSE SANTOS, age 44, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced today for charges relating to narcotics trafficking.

SANTOS pled guilty on August 17, 2017, to conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine hydrochloride.

Judge Nannette Jolivette Brown sentenced SANTOS to 25 months in the Federal Bureau of Prisons, as well as three years of supervised release following the term of imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jeff Sandman and James Baehr are in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MILTON OMAR SANCHEZ, age 43, a native of El Salvador, pled guilty yesterday to a one-count Indictment charging him with illegal reentry of a removed alien.

According to the court documents, SANCHEZ was previously removed from the United States on July 13, 2004. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on September 13, 2017, and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.

SANCHEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a fine of $250,000, three years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee.  U.S. District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle set sentencing for July 18, 2018.

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

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CASEY JOHNSON, age 27, was sentenced today after pleading guilty to one count of Bank Robbery with a Firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2113(a) and (d) and 2.  The defendant admitted to his participation in the December 2014 robbery of a J.P. Morgan Chase drive-up location in the Gentilly neighborhood of New Orleans.

U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier sentenced JOHNSON to six years in the Federal Bureau of Prisons.  Following the completion of his sentence, JOHNSON will be on supervised release for a period of three years.

The U.S. Attorney Evans wishes to thank the hard work of the FBI’s Violent Crime Unit in investigating this matter.  The case was handled by prosecutors Myles Ranier and David Haller.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JARVIS WHEELER, age 29, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was sentenced to 36 months of probation, which included eight months of home incarceration, by United States District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance after the defendant pleaded guilty to conspiracy to alter U.S. Postal money orders. 

According to the court records, WHEELER conspired with others in the New Orleans area to buy U.S. Postal money orders in small amounts (typically $1.00) and then the money orders were sent out of state where they were altered to much higher amounts. WHEELER, working with other conspirators, then enlisted individuals to deposit the altered U.S. Postal money orders into local bank accounts. Once the money orders cleared, the funds were withdrawn and split by WHEELER and the conspirators.

In addition to incarceration, WHEELER was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $25,000 to two local banks and to pay a $100.00 special assessment.   

U. S. Attorney Evans praised the investigative work of the United States Postal Inspector Office for its handling of the matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Rivera prosecuted the matter.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans, announced that EDY GARCIA-BANEGAS, age 32, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced  today after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information for illegally re-entering the United States after having been previously removed, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced EDY GARCIA-BANEGAS to 6 months incarceration, to be followed by 1 year of supervised release and ordered to pay a $100.000 fine.  

According to court records, EDY GARCIA-BANEGAS was found in the United States on December 14, 2017, after having been previously deported on multiple occasions.  

U.S. Attorney Evans 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.

United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LAZARO VILLATORO-BODDEN (“VILLATORO-BODDEN”), age 36, was sentenced today after pleading guilty on January 10, 2018, 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). United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle sentenced VILLATORO-BODDEN to one year of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.

According to court records, VILLATORO-BODDEN knowingly and with the intent to deceive, falsely represented that a social security number was assigned to him by the Commissioner of Social Security when, in fact, as VILLATORO-BODDEN knew, the social security number had not been assigned to him. His deception and illegal use of the social security number was done for the purpose of obtaining boat registration documents from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U. S. Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter.  Assistant U. S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DR. RAFAEL PRATS, age 64, a resident of Miami, Florida, was sentenced to three years probation today after previously pleading guilty to a twelve-count indictment charging conspiracy to commit theft of medical products, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and conspiracy to commit money laundering.

According to court documents, beginning sometime prior to December 2012, PRATS 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 PRATS served as a broker in obtaining the diverted pharmaceuticals from various sources.

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 Evans praised the work of the United States Drug Enforcement Administration, the Internal Revenue Service, the Food and Drug Administration, and the Miami Dade Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Theodore R. Carter, III and David Haller were in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHRIS WELLS, age 34, of New Orleans, pled guilty to several drug and firearms charges, including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one hundred grams or more of heroin and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, In March of 2017, members of the NOPD/HIDTA Task Force received information from a source of information that three individuals, including WELLS, were heroin distributors in the area of Mandeville Street and Derbigny Street in New Orleans. 

On April 13, 2017, officers conducted surveillance of the individuals and observed WELLS conduct a hand-to-hand narcotics transactions with several individuals.  As the officers continued their surveillance, they observed WELLS drive to Chalmette, Louisiana and return to New Orleans where an individual entered WELLS’s vehicle.  After a brief period, the individual exited WELLS’s vehicle and walked toward the intersection of Frenchman and St. Claude Street.  Officers approached the individual, who attempted to run but fell down and spilled approximately an ounce of heroin that he purchased from WELLS.  In a post-arrest statement, the individual admitted that he routinely purchased heroin by calling one telephone that was shared by WELLS and two other persons.  According to the individual, any one of the three would answer the phone and sell him an ounce of heroin on a weekly basis.

Officers and DEA Special Agents obtained a search warrant for WELLS’s residence at 406 East Liberaux Street in Chalmette, Louisiana.  During the search, officers and agents seized 70 grams of heroin, 38 grams of cocaine base (“crack”), and a Smith & Wesson 9 mm semi-automatic pistol.

WELLS faces a minimum term of fifteen years’ imprisonment and a maximum of life imprisonment.  U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier set sentencing for July 12, 2018.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Orleans Police Department, and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney André Jones is in charge of the prosecution.

Jaime LOZANO-CEJA, 30, and Juan Jose SANCHEZ-RIVERA, 26, residents of O’Fallon, Illinois, were indicted on charges of conspiracy to distribute heroin, distribution of heroin, and possession with intent to distribute heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.  

According to court documents, beginning in June of 2018 and continuing to on or about February 17, 2018, LOZANO-CEJA and  SANCHEZ-RIVERA did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate and agree with other persons known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin.  Additionally, LOZANO-CEJA is charged with distribution of a quantity of heroin.

LOZANO-CEJA and SANCHEZ-RIVERA each face a minimum of ten years’ imprisonment, a maximum term of life imprisonment, and a fine of $10,000,000.00. 

The case was investigated by the Office of Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LUCKY FUA IOSUA, age 47, of Los Angeles, California, has pleaded guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute 500 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 Misprision of a Felony, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 4.

LUCKY FUA IOSUA admitted that in around December 2016, he conspired with codefendants DAVID SUIAUNOA and NADINE SAMALAULU PAALA to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, including selling 1,774.9 grams of methamphetamine to an undercover officer of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) in February 2017. 

In addition, LUCKY FUA IOSUA admitted that he did not disclose to law enforcement information that DAVID SUIAUNOA and another person had committed a felony, namely, Conspiracy to Use Interstate Commerce Facilities in the Commission of a Murder-for-Hire. 

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.

 

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MISAEL BERNAL, age 33, a citizen of Guatemala, pled guilty yesterday to a one-count indictment for violating the Federal Gun Control Act.

According to court documents, officers of the New Orleans Police Department were dispatched to a residence after receiving a 911 call in reference to a man firing a gun into the air. Responding officers encountered BERNAL outside of his residence and observed several spent 9mm shell casings on the ground. After conducting an investigative frisk for officer safety, a box of 9mm ammunition was located in his right front pocket. While conducting the investigation, officers located a witness who indicated that BERNAL went back into his residence after firing the weapon. Officers applied for a search warrant on his residence which later yielded a 9mm semi-automatic handgun. BERNAL was arrested and federal agents later determined that he had been previously removed from the United States on April 30, 2013 and had no permission to reenter. 

BERNAL faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000, three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment. U.S. District Court Judge Eldon E. Fallon set sentencing for July 12, 2018.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MARTHA OJEDA, age 42, of Pflugerville, Texas, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to five years in prison followed by ten years of supervised release after previously pleading guilty to a one-count Bill of Information charging her with interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct.  OJEDA will also have to register as a sex offender.

According to the court documents, in late February 2017, OJEDA met the minor, a fifteen-year-old boy who resided in Franklinton, Louisiana, on a social networking website.  From late February until early April, OJEDA and the minor engaged in sexually explicit correspondence, including simulating sexual intercourse and other sexual contact and plans to engage in sexual acts in the future, on numerous occasions.  During the correspondence, OJEDA requested and received sexually explicit images and videos of the minor via a social media-based instant messaging application. 

In early April, OJEDA and the minor made plans for OJEDA to travel to Louisiana to pick up the minor and return to Texas together for the purpose of engaging in sex and spending the rest of their lives together. On about April 8, 2017, OJEDA traveled by commercial bus and then by taxi from Texas to the minor’s Franklinton, Louisiana home.  OJEDA and the minor then traveled back to New Orleans, where they stayed in a hotel room together and engaged in sexual intercourse.  On about April 9, 2017, OJEDA and the minor travelled via commercial bus from New Orleans, Louisiana, to Houston, Texas, for the purpose of engaging in living together in a romantic relationship.   OJEDA and the minor then moved to Pflugerville, Texas, where they lived together until the minor was recovered by special agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation on May 12, 2017. 

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.

The case was investigated by agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DON MANUEL ZEMO, JR., age 55, a resident of River Ridge, Louisiana, was charged yesterday in a one-count bill of information with conspiracy to commit mail fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. ' 371, for his role in stealing over $1,000,000 from his employer, a privately owned and operated company that provided portside services as a terminal operator and stevedore at the Port of New Orleans.

According to the bill of information, ZEMO was hired in 1999.  Between 2003 and 2015, he served as the General Manager of Port Operations.  In that capacity, ZEMO oversaw and managed Company A’s day-to-day operations at Company A’s terminal at the Port of New Orleans, including handling all financial documentation, personnel decisions, job scheduling, implementing of Company A’s policies at Company A’s Port of New Orleans terminal, and facilitating the billing of Company A’s customers. 

In about August 2009, R.Z. formed U.S. Gulf Trade, Inc., and until July 2015, ZEMO diverted approximately $1,033,639.54 over the course of eighty (80) transactions from Company A to himself and U.S. Gulf Trade.  ZEMO did so by representing to Company A’s customers that USGT, and not Company A, had provided certain services and material to the customer when, in fact, Company A’s equipment, employees, and material was used to provide the services and directing customers to transmit payments to USGT, not Company A, for the services rendered and material provided, without Company A’s knowledge or authorization..

If convicted, ZEMO faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations.  Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg is in charge of the prosecution.

U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that NORWIN CASTELLON-LOPEZ, age 35, a citizen and national of Nicaragua, pled guilty yesterday to a one-count Bill of Information for illegally re-entering the United States having previously been deported as an illegal alien and having previously been convicted of a felony.

According to court documents, CASTELLON-LOPEZ was found in the United States on or about January 11, 2017, after having been previously removed from the United States on December 22, 2010, and October 7, 2015.  Further, on August 30, 2010, CASTELLON-LOPEZ was convicted of a felony in Orleans Parish Criminal District Court. 

CASTELLON-LOPEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of $250,000.00, and up to three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  Sentencing is scheduled for June 20, 2018, before Chief United States District Judge Engelhardt. 

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JUSTIN CRAFT, age 29, of New Orleans, pled guilty to several drug and firearms charges, including conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one hundred grams or more of heroin and possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

According to court documents, In March of 2017, members of the NOPD/HIDTA Task Force received information from a source of information that three individuals, including CRAFT, were heroin distributors in the area of Mandeville Street and Derbigny Street in New Orleans. 

On April 11, 2017, officers conducted surveillance of the individuals and observed CRAFT conduct a hand-to-hand narcotics transaction with an individual.  Officers arrested the individual and seized cocaine base that he purchased from CRAFT.  A second individual who was also arrested after purchasing heroin in the area, informed officers that he called one telephone that was shared by CRAFT and two other persons.  According to the individual, any one of the three would answer the phone and sell him an ounce of heroin on a weekly basis.

Officers and DEA Special Agents obtained a search warrant for CRAFT’S residence at 14070 Wales Street in New Orleans.  During the search, officers and agents seized 4.9 grams of heroin and several firearms, including two semi-automatic rifles, a semi-automatic pistol, and a shotgun.

CRAFT faces a minimum term of fifteen years’ imprisonment and a maximum of life imprisonment.  U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier set sentencing for June 28, 2018.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New Orleans Police Department, and the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney André Jones is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that RONALD VANTRESS, JR., age 53, of New Orleans, was charged in a three-count indictment with bank robbery, interstate transportation of stolen property, and interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 2113(a), 2314, and 2312. 

According to the indictment, RONALD VANTRESS, JR., robbed the Gulf Coast Bank and Trust, located at 201 North Carrollton Ave., New Orleans, Louisiana, on March 21, 2018.  In addition, RONALD VANTRESS JR. transported a stolen 2009 Toyota Camry, a stolen license plate, and other stolen property from New Orleans to Texas after the robbery.

If convicted, RONALD VANTRESS, JR. faces a maximum term of imprisonment of twenty years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, three years supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment on the bank robbery count. 

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.

 

Today, as the Department of Justice recognizes the 50th Anniversary of the Fair Housing Act, Attorney General Jeff Sessions announced the nationwide rollout of an initiative aimed at increasing awareness and reporting of sexual harassment in housing. The announcement includes an interagency task force between the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and the Justice Department to combat sexual harassment in housing, an outreach toolkit, and a public awareness campaign. This three-pronged approach will strengthen the Department’s efforts to combat sexual harassment in housing.

“Sexual harassment in housing is illegal, immoral, and unacceptable," said Attorney General Sessions. “It is all too common today, as too many landlords, managers, and their employees attempt to prey on vulnerable women. We will not hesitate to pursue these predators and enforce the law. In October, I ordered a new initiative to bring more of these cases, and we have already won relief for 15 victims. Today we announce three new steps to make the initiative more effective and to win more cases. I want to thank the dedicated and committed professionals in our Civil Rights Division and our partners in the Department of Housing and Urban Development for their hard work in this effort. We will continue to aggressively pursue harassers, because everyone has a right to be safe in their home.”

“All discrimination stains the very fabric of our nation, but HUD is especially focused on protecting the right of everyone to feel safe and secure in their homes, free from unwanted sexual harassment,” said Secretary Ben Carson. “No person should have to tolerate unwanted sexual advances in order to keep a roof over his or her head. Part of our mission at HUD is to provide safe housing and we will remain diligent in this mission to protect those we serve. I look forward to working with Attorney General Sessions and the Department of Justice as part of this task force to bring an end to this type of discrimination.”

In October 2017, the Justice Department announced an initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing and launched pilot programs in Washington, D.C. and the Western District of Virginia. The initiative sought to increase the Department’s efforts to protect women from harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, security guards, and other employees and representatives of rental property owners. During the pilots, the Department developed and tested ways to better connect both with victims of sexual harassment in housing and with those organizations that victims may turn to first for help – including law enforcement, legal services providers, public housing authorities, sexual assault services providers, and shelters.  The Department also tested certain aspects of the initiative in other jurisdictions, including New Jersey, the Central District of California, Massachusetts, Vermont, and Michigan.

The two pilot programs generated an upswing in harassment reporting to the Department from both D.C. and the Western District of Virginia. In D.C., the Department generated six leads since the October 2017 launch. In Virginia, the Department generated three leads. While the Justice Department recognizes that leads and investigations do not always lead to enforcement actions, the pilot program’s results—when extrapolated across all the U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country—could lead to hundreds of new reports of sexual harassment in housing across the country.

Because of these promising results, the Department is rolling out three major components to the Initiative.

First, the new HUD-DOJ Task Force to Combat Sexual Harassment in Housing will drive a shared strategy between the Department and HUD for combatting sexual harassment in housing across the country. It will focus on five key areas: continued data sharing and analysis, joint development of training, evaluation of public housing complaint mechanisms, coordination of public outreach and press strategy, and review of federal policies.

Second, the outreach toolkit is designed to leverage the Justice Department’s nationwide network of U.S. Attorney’s Offices. The toolkit provides templates, guidance, and checklists based on pilot program feedback. It ultimately will amplify available enforcement resources and help victims of sexual harassment connect with the Department.

Third, the public awareness campaign has three major components: a partnership package with relevant stakeholders, launch of a social media campaign, and Public Service Announcements (PSAs) run by individual U.S. Attorney’s offices. The campaign is specifically designed to raise awareness, and make it easier for victims all over the country to find resources and report harassment.

More information about the Civil Rights Division and the civil rights laws it enforces is available at www.usdoj.gov/crt. Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment in housing should call the Department at 1-844-380-6178, send an e-mail to fairhousing@usdoj.gov, or contact HUD at 1-800-669-9777.  If you have information or questions about any other housing discrimination, you can contact the Department at 1-800-896-7743.

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Public Service Announcement Transcript

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that MANUEL SERRATA, age 42, JOSE GUADALUPE CERVANTES-MARRON, age 48, and JOSE HINOJOSA, age 45, pleaded guilty today to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act.

According to court documents, the three men were part of a conspiracy to distribute fifteen kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride.  Several members of the conspiracy were arrested in November 2016 with fifteen kilograms of cocaine hydrochloride in Houma, Louisiana.  Two others have previously pleaded guilty to their role in the conspiracy.

SERRATA and HINOJOSA each face a minimum term of ten years of imprisonment up to life, a maximum fine of $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. CERVANTES-MARRON faces a term of zero to twenty years of imprisonment, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, at least three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment. Sentencing is set before Judge Martin L. C. Feldman on July 18, 2018.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and the Terrebonne Parish Sherriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James S. C. Baehr and David Haller are in charge of the prosecution.

 

United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOEL FLORES-GONZALES, age 41, a native of Mexico, was charged today in a one-count indictment with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1326(a).

According to the Indictment, FLORES-GONZALES was previously removed from the United States on June 20, 2016. He was later found in the Eastern District of Louisiana on March 12, 2018 and had not received permission from the Attorney General of the United States or the Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security to reenter.

If convicted, FLORES-GONZALES 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. Attorney Evans reiterated that an Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

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

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announces the guilty plea by ROLAND CHAMBERS, age 49, of Houma, before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk.

CHAMBERS pleaded guilty to a bill of information charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846.  He faces a mandatory minimum of five and a maximum of 40 years in prison, a maximum $5,000,000.00 fine, at least four years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment.  Sentencing is scheduled for June 28, 2018, before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the investigative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Shirin Hakimzadeh and Matthew Payne.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that ELMER JAVIER ACOSTA-MEJIA, age 27, a citizen of Honduras, was charged in a two-count indictment for violations of the Federal Gun Control Act.

According to the indictment, ACOSTA-MEJIA, an alien illegally present in the United States, possessed two firearms.  ACOSTA-MEJIA is prohibited from possessing any firearm because he is an alien illegally in the United States

For each charge, ACOSTA-MEJIA 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, ACOSTA-MEJIA is subject to a period of supervised release after imprisonment of up to three years.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans 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.

 

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announces the guilty plea today by LEXY LOPEZ-BATEMAN, age 40, of Slidell, before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk.

According to court documents, LOPEZ-BATEMAN was an employee of the United States Postal Service when she suffered an on-the-job ankle injury in 2015.  She was therefore entitled to workers compensation benefits, including costs of travel to and from medical appointments.  However, beginning in 2015, she submitted fraudulent requests for reimbursement to the U.S. Department of Labor.  Moreover, even though LOPEZ-BATEMAN completed her treatment in January 2016, she continued to submit fraudulent reimbursement requests through June 2017.  LOPEZ-BATEMAN filed over 300 fraudulent claims in which she either exaggerated her mileage or where no medical appointment occurred.  In total, LOPEZ-BATEMAN defrauded the U.S. government of $16,851.10.

LOPEZ-BATEMAN pleaded guilty to a bill of information charging her with making false statements in connection with receiving federal workers compensation benefits.  She faces a minimum of 5 years in prison, a maximum $250,000.00 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Sentencing is scheduled for June 28, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the investigative efforts of the U.S. Postal Services Office of Inspector General.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Payne.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that EDDIE JAMES, age 40, of New Orleans, pled guilty yesterday before United States District Judge Sarah Vance to a one-count Bill of Information charging him with bank robbery in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2113(a).

According to court documents, JAMES robbed the Fidelity Homestead Bank at 1201 S. Carrollton Avenue in New Orleans on November 2, 2017.  JAMES faces a sentence of up to twenty years in prison, a period of up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000.  Sentencing is scheduled for August 8, 2018 at 9:30 a.m.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney David Haller is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that NATHANIEL RAINEY, a/k/a “Nathan Lee,” a/k/a “Nathaniel Rainie,” a/k/a “Nathaniel Palmore,” age 59, of New Orleans, was indicted by a federal grand jury today with one count of failure to register as a sex offender under the federal Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA).

If convicted, RAINEY faces a maximum term of 10 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine.  He also would have to be sentenced to a term of supervised release of between 5 years and life.

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

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Marshal’s Service and the Louisiana State Police in this matter.  He extended his thanks to the New Orleans Police Department and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office for their assistance.  Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Payne is in charge of prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that LUIS ALBERTO TEJEDA-QUIROZ, age 33, a Mexican national, was sentenced today to three years’ imprisonment for Illegal Use of a Social Security Number, False Claim to United States Citizenship, Illegal Reentry of Removed Alien, and Identity Theft.

Prior to November 2014, TEJEDA-QUIROZ had been deported from United States three times and had reentered the United States after each deportation.  In November 2014, TEJEDA-QUIROZ obtained a Louisiana state identification card using the personal identifying information of another person. In March 2015, TEJEDA-QUIROZ used the identification card and other identifying information of this other person to apply for employment with a local business. As part of the application, TEJEDA-QUIROZ falsely claimed in an Employment Eligibility Verification Form that he was a United States citizen and that the other person’s Social Security number was assigned to him.

In August 2017, a Louisiana State Police trooper encountered TEJEDA-QUIROZ while conducting a traffic stop. TEJEDA-QUIROZ falsely claimed to be the other person and presented a Kentucky State driver’s license issued in the other person’s name.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Homeland Security Investigations and the assistance of the Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Chandra Menon was in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CARLOS ARGUETA-MANCIA, age 24, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today after pleading guilty on February 22, 2017 to a one-count Bill of Information charging him with illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326(a). U.S. District Judge Mary Ann Vial Lemmon sentenced ARGUETA-MANCIA to four months in the custody of the Bureau of Prisons.  

According to the court documents, ARGUETA-MANCIA was found in the United States on or about December 30, 2017, after having been previously removed on September 25, 2015.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson is in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that BRIAN MAXSON, aka “Chin,” age 34, of New Orleans, pled guilty today to one count of conspiring to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.  MAXSON also pled guilty to one count of conspiring to possess firearms in furtherance of his drug-trafficking activities. 

On MAXSON’s drug conspiracy count, MAXSON is facing a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment, a maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a possible fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least four years of supervised release upon his release from prison.  On the firearm count, MAXSON is facing a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment, a possible fine of up to $250,000, and not more than three years of supervised release. 

U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance will sentence MAXSON on August 8, 2018 at 9:30 a.m.

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.   Attorney General Jeff Sessions has made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.   In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN launched in 2001.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the FBI New Orleans Gang Task Force (NOGFT), which led this investigation and was assisted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Orleans Police Department, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office.  Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon S. Long, David Haller, and Edward Rivera are in charge of the prosecution.

WASHINGTON – A New Orleans, Louisiana-area woman pleaded guilty today for her participation in a scheme to obtain oxycodone through fraud by creating fictitious prescriptions and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone on the black market. 

Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana, Special Agent in Charge Eric J. Rommal of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office, Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Stephen G. Azzam of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New Orleans Field Division made the announcement. 

Danielle Nicole Lesslie, 30, of Metairie, Louisiana was charged in a one-count Information with conspiracy to acquire and obtain possession of oxycodone through fraud and to possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone.  She pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk of the Eastern District of Louisiana.  She is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Africk on June 28.

“Danielle Lesslie used a physician’s stolen prescription template to create fraudulent prescriptions for opioids and then used those prescriptions to distribute approximately 312,050 milligrams of oxycodone pills on the black market,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Cronan.  “This case is indicative of the Department’s ongoing, multifaceted approach to combating the opioid epidemic.”

“The costs imposed on our society by the opioid epidemic are great,” said U.S. Attorney Evans.  “That is why we will continue to prosecute individuals like Ms. Lesslie who participate in the illegal distribution of prescription drugs to members of the public.”

“The opioid epidemic continues to ravage our communities,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Rommal.  “This case demonstrates how the FBI will continue to investigate those who contribute to this problem, especially those who steal from physicians to do so.” 

“HHS-OIG will never hesitate to investigate those who defraud federal health care programs in order to obtain and then sell opioid prescriptions on the black market,” said HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Porter. “Working with our law enforcement partners, our investigators will continue to crack down on prescription drug fraud in order to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not illegally being utilized to fund the opioid epidemic, as well as to protect the public from the illegal distribution of these prescription drugs.   

“Danielle Lesslie and her co-conspirators in this scheme heartlessly contributed to the opioid epidemic plaguing our society today,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Azzam.  “This malicious conduct puts lives at risk and won’t be tolerated.  We will continue to protect the integrity of the medical profession, including physicians who have their prescription templates stolen from them.  DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who seek to perpetuate and profit from the opioid crisis in this country, as well as undermine our nation’s taxpayer funded federal health care programs.”

On Oct. 5, 2017, Lesslie was arrested on a federal criminal complaint, which alleged that Lesslie used a physician’s stolen prescription template to create fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone that were filled by New Orleans area pharmacies and then resold on the black market. 

In pleading guilty, Lesslie admitted that, between February 2017 and September 2017, she created fraudulent prescriptions using personal identifying information provided to her by her co-conspirators, which were then used to obtain oxycodone pills that were subsequently resold on the black market.  She admitted to providing these fraudulent prescriptions to other individuals who she knew would fill the prescriptions, and then would facilitate the resale of the pills on the black market.  In some instances, Lesslie knew that certain individuals used their Medicaid benefits when filling the fraudulent prescriptions.  In total, she admitted distributing approximately 312,050 milligrams of oxycodone pills that were obtained using the fraudulent prescriptions that she created. 

This case was investigated by the FBI; HHS-OIG, Office of Investigations; the DEA and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Trial Attorney Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Myles Ranier of the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force.  Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in nine cities across the country, has charged over 3,000 defendants who collectively have billed the Medicare program for over $11 billion.  In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.

To learn more about the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT), go to www.stopmedicarefraud.gov.

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A New Orleans, Louisiana-area woman pleaded guilty today for her participation in a scheme to obtain oxycodone through fraud by creating fictitious prescriptions and to possess with intent to distribute oxycodone on the black market. 

Acting Assistant Attorney General John P. Cronan of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans of the Eastern District of Louisiana, Special Agent in Charge Eric J. Rommal of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office, Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Stephen G. Azzam of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New Orleans Field Division made the announcement. 

Danielle Nicole Lesslie, 30, of Metairie, Louisiana was charged in a one-count Information with conspiracy to acquire and obtain possession of oxycodone through fraud and to possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone.  She pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk of the Eastern District of Louisiana.  She is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Africk on June 28.

“Danielle Lesslie used a physician’s stolen prescription template to create fraudulent prescriptions for opioids and then used those prescriptions to distribute approximately 312,050 milligrams of oxycodone pills on the black market,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Cronan.  “This case is indicative of the Department’s ongoing, multifaceted approach to combating the opioid epidemic.”

“The costs imposed on our society by the opioid epidemic are great,” said U.S. Attorney Evans.  “That is why we will continue to prosecute individuals like Ms. Lesslie who participate in the illegal distribution of prescription drugs to members of the public.”

“This case is yet another example of how the opioid abuse and trafficking epidemic is affecting New Orleans and many other U.S. cities," said Special Agent in Charge Rommal.  "Using her knowledge and experience in the medical field, Danielle Lesslie was able to generate numerous fraudulent prescriptions, resulting in a substantial number of pills on the street. In many instances these pills were sold for profit by Lesslie in an effort which ultimately contributed to the overall opioid epidemic. Through Lesslie’s fraudulent activities and greed, countless people were harmed, as well as several New Orleans area communities placed at risk. The FBI, along with our federal, state, and local partners remain committed to investigating allegations of prescription fraud and abuse in Louisiana.”

“HHS-OIG will never hesitate to investigate those who defraud federal health care programs in order to obtain and then sell opioid prescriptions on the black market,” said HHS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Porter. “Working with our law enforcement partners, our investigators will continue to crack down on prescription drug fraud in order to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not illegally being utilized to fund the opioid epidemic, as well as to protect the public from the illegal distribution of these prescription drugs.   

“Danielle Lesslie and her co-conspirators in this scheme heartlessly contributed to the opioid epidemic plaguing our society today,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Azzam.  “This malicious conduct puts lives at risk and won’t be tolerated.  We will continue to protect the integrity of the medical profession, including physicians who have their prescription templates stolen from them.  DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who seek to perpetuate and profit from the opioid crisis in this country, as well as undermine our nation’s taxpayer funded federal health care programs.”

On Oct. 5, 2017, Lesslie was arrested on a federal criminal complaint, which alleged that Lesslie used a physician’s stolen prescription template to create fraudulent prescriptions for oxycodone that were filled by New Orleans area pharmacies and then resold on the black market. 

In pleading guilty, Lesslie admitted that, between February 2017 and September 2017, she created fraudulent prescriptions using personal identifying information provided to her by her co-conspirators, which were then used to obtain oxycodone pills that were subsequently resold on the black market.  She admitted to providing these fraudulent prescriptions to other individuals who she knew would fill the prescriptions, and then would facilitate the resale of the pills on the black market.  In some instances, Lesslie knew that certain individuals used their Medicaid benefits when filling the fraudulent prescriptions.  In total, she admitted distributing approximately 312,050 milligrams of oxycodone pills that were obtained using the fraudulent prescriptions that she created. 

This case was investigated by the FBI; HHS-OIG, Office of Investigations; the DEA and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Trial Attorney Jared Hasten of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Myles Ranier of the Eastern District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force.  Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, now operating in nine cities across the country, has charged over 3,000 defendants who collectively have billed the Medicare program for over $11 billion.  In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.

To learn more about the Health Care Fraud Prevention and Enforcement Action Team (HEAT), go to www.stopmedicarefraud.gov.

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CRAIG A. TAFFARO, age 70, of Harvey, a former Chief Deputy for the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, was sentenced today to five years’ probation, a $10,000 fine, and $75,614 in restitution.

TAFFARO was convicted at trial of willfully attempting to evade tax due and owing by filing returns with false and exaggerated business expenses for tax years 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013 and was also convicted for willfully failing to file a tax return when required by law for tax year 2014.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Chandra Menon, Tracey Knight, and David Sinkman were in charge of the prosecution.

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that MICHAEL J. COTTON, age 68, of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced today to thirty-seven (37) months in prison by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle after previously pleading guilty to the one-count Bill of Information pending against him, charging COTTON with soliciting sexual favors from a woman in exchange for obtaining a bond reduction for her boyfriend.

According to court documents, COTTON worked as an Investigator with the Office of the District Attorney for the 22nd Judicial District, which included St. Tammany and Washington Parishes.  COTTON was responsible for investigating matters involving the issuance of bad checks, including initiating cases, reviewing records, interacting with victims, collecting fees and restitution from offenders, and obtaining warrants from municipal judges.  COTTON also possessed and displayed a law enforcement badge and credentials, represented the DA’s Office in interactions with criminal defendants and witnesses in ongoing law enforcement investigations, and had access to sensitive case-related information.  Furthermore, COTTON regularly corresponded with, had access to, and provided case-related recommendations to Assistant District Attorneys. 

Between December 28, 2013, and July 10, 2015, COTTON offered to intervene in legal proceedings and obtain favorable legal outcomes, such as significant reductions in bond, for three (3) females charged with crimes within the 22nd Judicial District and their friends, family, and significant others who were charged with crimes in exchange for sexual favors.  If females expressed reluctance, COTTON would either imply or state explicitly that he had the ability to influence the criminal justice system to exact harsher penalties against the females or their friends, families, or significant others. 

For example, in July 2015, COTTON demanded sexual favors from a 23-year-old female identified as “Victim 1” in exchange for seeking a bond reduction for her boyfriend, who was a defendant in the Washington Parish jail, from $25,000 to a $30.00 signature bond.  Between December 2013 and March 24, COTTON requested sexual favors from a 28-year-old female identified as “Victim 2” in exchange for arranging for her to retain custody of her minor children and eliminating a drug testing condition she had as the result of prior legal issues.  COTTON told Victim 2 that he had strong relationships with, and possessed the power to influence, representatives of the Washington Parish Department of Children and Family Services, judges of the 22nd Judicial District, and the then-District Attorney, Walter Reed.  In January 2014, COTTON used his position as Investigator to seek and obtain a significant bond reduction for an incarcerated 23-year-old female identified as “Victim 3” with whom he had a relationship that involved sexual activity.  When, in February 2014, Victim 3 sought to end her sexual relationship with him, COTTON told her that he would use his position as Investigator to influence law enforcement authorities to imprison Victim 3 if she did not resume the sexual relationship.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg.                                                             

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U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that a federal jury convicted RONALD THOMPSON, a St. Charles Parish resident, for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act. Following a two-day trial, the jury found THOMPSON guilty of possessing with the intent to distribute quantities of cocaine, crack cocaine, and heroin.

According to the evidence presented at trial, on July 27, 2017, St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives witnessed what appeared to be a hand-to-hand drug transaction in a gas station parking lot. They effected a traffic stop on the vehicle involved, which ultimately led to the discovery of a bag containing powder cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and ecstasy in the back of a police car where THOMPSON had been placed pending the search of his car. Testimony and other evidence confirmed that Thompson had pulled the bag from inside his pants and shoved it into the seat behind him.

THOMPSON, who has two prior federal felony drug convictions, faces up to 30 years in prison for each count. Sentencing will take place before Judge Susie Morgan.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the St. Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Jeff Sandman and Nicholas D. Moses were responsible for the prosecution.

Three Cuban nationals who had been residing in Texas before their arrest pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to commit access device fraud, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today. According to documents filed today in open court, all three defendants admitted that they agreed together and with others to obtain credit and debit card numbers that had been skimmed from gas pumps and use these numbers to make purchases.

YUSNIEL HERNANDEZ PEREZ (32), YADIER ALUIJAS FERNANDEZ (31), and HENRY DAVID MARTINEZ (23) admitted that they traveled to the Eastern District of Louisiana from Texas in July 2017. They traveled to locations in Louisiana where skimmers had been previously installed, returned to Texas, and then came back to Louisiana with counterfeit access devices, which they used to make purchases as a local merchant. A fourth defendant, ALAYN ALVAREZ CASTRO, was arrested in December 2017 in Miami, Florida and remains charged in this case.

Judge Feldman set sentencing for PEREZ, FERNANDEZ, and MARTINEZ for July 11, 2018 at 1:30 p.m. At sentencing, each faces a statutory maximum sentence of five years in prison, along with monetary penalties, supervised release, and mandatory restitution.

U.S. Attorney Evans commended special agents of the United States Secret Service, as well as Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, who investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Hayden Brockett is in charge of the prosecution.