Middle District of Louisiana

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced the sentencing of five individuals by U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick in connection with a large-scale cocaine and heroin trafficking network based in East Baton Rouge Parish.

Francisco Palma, age 45, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, unlawful use of communication facilities, unlawful travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and money laundering. The Court further sentenced Palma to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.

Chief Judge Dick previously sentenced four other individuals in connection with this scheme. Juan Villareal, age 40, of Roma, Texas, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin and unlawful use of communication facilities. The Court further sentenced Villareal to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and entered a forfeiture money judgment of $100,000 against him, representing the amount of proceeds that he obtained from the offenses.

Richard Antunez, age 36, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, distribution of cocaine and heroin, and unlawful use of communication facilities. The Court further sentenced Antunez to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.

Marco Antonio Filos, age 44, of Marrero, Louisiana, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and heroin, unlawful travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise, and unlawful use of communication facilities. The Court further sentenced Filos to serve two years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.

Clarence Corey Anderson, age 44, of Prairieville, Louisiana, was sentenced to two years of probation following his conviction of unlawful use of communication facilities.

According to admissions made during his plea, beginning in or before October of 2017, and continuing until January 31, 2019, Palma conspired with others to obtain, distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute large quantities of cocaine, in excess of five kilograms, and heroin in the Middle District of Louisiana.

As part of the conspiracy, Palma, along with Juan Villareal, purchased or obtained kilogram quantities of cocaine and heroin from sources in Mexico and supplied these drugs to each other if one or the other ran out before the next shipment came in. Palma distributed cocaine and heroin to Richard Antunez, Marcos Antonio Filos, and Corey Anderson for further distribution in Baton Rouge, New Orleans, and elsewhere.                                       

Palma and other members of his organization used telephones, which were listed in their names and the names of others, to discuss, negotiate, and arrange the purchase and sale of heroin. They also used telephones to facilitate the exchange of monies related to the buying and selling of heroin. Palma and the other members used public and private places to carry out the exchange of cocaine and heroin and cash from the drug transactions.

Agents seized over $250,000 in illegal drug proceeds, luxury vehicles, heroin, cocaine, and marijuana, and thirteen firearms during the investigation.  The United States separately obtained forfeiture judgments for proceeds from the sale of a 2010 Rolls Royce Ghost and $253,110 in cash through civil forfeiture.

This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Iberville Parish Sheriff's Office, and Baton Rouge Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eli J. Abad. Assistant United States Attorney J. Brady Casey litigated the associated forfeiture proceedings.

Today the Middle District of Louisiana observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and joins the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) in reaffirming the administration’s commitment to combating all forms of human trafficking and protecting victims and survivors. Human Trafficking Prevention Month presents an opportunity for DHS and DOJ, through Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTFs) to intensify operational efforts, raise public awareness, and strengthen partnerships across federal, state, and local agencies to disrupt trafficking networks, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure traffickers are brought to justice.

“This Department of Justice is working tirelessly alongside our partners to dismantle human trafficking networks, help survivors, and protect vulnerable populations from being exploited,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under this administration we have seen an increase in human trafficking prosecutions, and during Human Trafficking Prevention Month we reaffirm our commitment to prosecuting traffickers and encourage Americans to report instances of human trafficking in their communities.”

“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, President Trump is taking the fight directly to human trafficking networks and disrupting their modern-day slave trade while seizing their assets and arresting their kingpins and foot soldiers. The American people should not have to live in fear of cartels, gang bangers, and foreign terrorists preying upon the most vulnerable among us,” the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said in a statement. “The Homeland Security Task Force is the largest coordinated campaign against transnational criminal organizations in U.S. history, and I’m proud to co-lead it with Attorney General Bondi.”

“During Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the FBI reiterates our work with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and national victim-based advocacy groups in joint task forces to protect our communities across the country,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The horrifying reach of human trafficking spreads far and wide. Homeland Security Task Forces are fighting back to disrupt these perilous networks and put a stop to that reach. The FBI will continue our investigations and bring justice to those exploited by human traffickers.

“I am thankful that this President has made the prosecution and elimination of human trafficking such an important priority,” stated U.S. Attorney Wall. “Our office will continue to aggressively support that mission.”

In January 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. Section 6 of this order directed the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to jointly establish HSTFs in every state nationwide. The HSTF objective is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) throughout the United States; dismantle cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks; end the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking, with a particular focus on such offenses involving children; and ensure the use of all available law enforcement tools to faithfully execute the immigration laws of the United States.

Since January 20, 2025, the Middle District of Louisiana has:

• Indicted Maurilio Lazcano-Vargas, age 45, of Mexico; Zabdi Guzman-Diaz, age 40, of Mexico; and Edyn Efrain-Arevalo, age 52, of Guatemala, charging them with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, sex trafficking, and coercing and enticing another to travel interstate for prostitution. Each defendant is an illegal alien who is present in the United States without authorization. If convicted of the sex trafficking charges, each defendant faces a minimum of fifteen years and up to life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. They are also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing any sentences imposed. This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Edward Warner and Stephen Vick, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Allen Ross are prosecuting this matter.
• Indicted Jesus Lopez, age 45; Zaira Lopez-Oliva, age 24; and Kirsis Castellanos-Kirington, age 30, charging them with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, sex trafficking, and coercing and enticing another to travel interstate for prostitution. Each defendant is a Honduran national that is present in the United States without authorization. If convicted of the sex trafficking charges, each defendant faces a minimum of fifteen years and up to life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. They are also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing any sentences imposed. This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Edward Warner and Stephen Vick, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Allen Ross are prosecuting this matter.
• Secured a guilty plea against Josmar Jesus Zambrano-Chirinos, age 25, a Venezuelan national who is present in the United States without authorization, for sex trafficking by force, fraud, and coercion.  Zambrano-Chirinos’s conviction is punishable by a minimum of fifteen years and a maximum of life in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release. The conviction also includes sex offender registration requirements. He is also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing his sentence. This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations, Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Alan Stevens and Benjamin Anderson are prosecuting this matter.

In January 2026, DHS and DOJ are surging resources to fight and raise awareness about human trafficking, including by:

• Identifying on-going investigations and prioritizing featured operations across 45 federal locations and 10 state locations with an emphasis on border states.
• Coordinating with FBI Human Trafficking Squads and multi-agency Human Trafficking Task Forces to conduct victim recovery.
• Partnering with AMTRAK and FAMS to increase law enforcement resources and distribute posters with QR codes for reporting human trafficking in all station bathrooms and trains.
• Running advertisements related to the $250 million recovery from Backpage to distribute to victims and additional victim restitution efforts by DOL-OIG.
• Organizing Human Trafficking seminars and outreach events with DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking at high schools and colleges to highlight the role of HSTFs in addressing human trafficking.

On August 25, 2025, the HSTFs officially launched their efforts to protect the Homeland with a September Surge encompassing 400 operations nationwide. In just 43 days, HSTF nationwide operations resulted in 3,266 arrests and seizures, including:

• 1,041 Sinaloa members,
• 856 Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (“CJNG”) members,
• 641 MS-13 members,
• 456 Tren de Aragua members,
• 1,067 weapons,
• More than $3,250,000 in currency, and
• Approximately 91 metric tons of narcotics

U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that the Middle District of Louisiana collected $1,392,488.86 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Of this amount, $1,240,255.48 was collected in criminal actions, and $152,233.38 was collected in civil actions.

Additionally, the Middle District of Louisiana worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect a further $2,065,487.31 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $11,350.00 was collected in criminal actions, and $2,054,137.31 was collected in civil actions.

U.S. Attorney Wall stated, “Our mission in representing the United States is to hold everyone accountable who violates our laws, whether it is criminal or civil. We will use every tool available to obtain justice. Sometimes that might result in prison, or the enforcement of monetary judgments, or even the execution of asset forfeitures. Criminals and fraudsters can be certain that we will aggressively pursue all available options.”

In August 2025, the Middle District of Louisiana recovered $189,490 as part of a forfeiture in United States v. $189,490.00 in U.S. Currency, Case No. 23-CV-665-BAJ-SDJ. During a traffic stop on Interstate 12 near the Millerville Road exit in Baton Rouge, the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration seized $189,490 in cash hidden in the vehicle that were the proceeds of drug trafficking activity. This cash was rubber-banded in seven bundles and hidden in the liners of two suitcases in the vehicle. The United States initiated a civil forfeiture action against these funds, and on August 25, 2025, U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson ordered them forfeited to the United States.   

In May 2024, Adolphus Obioha pled guilty in the Middle District of Louisiana to theft of government funds for a scheme involving Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) proceeds. As part of his sentence, he was ordered to pay $472,191.60 in restitution to the Small Business Administration. During Fiscal Year 2025, the U.S. Attorney’s Office collected $249,909.09 on this debt, including $136,000 seized through asset forfeiture and an additional $107,234.09 lump-sum payment. United States v. Adolphus A. Obioha, Case No. 23-CR-00025-BAJ-SDJ.   

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Louisiana, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $1,916,630 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2025. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Asset Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes. 

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that a federal grand jury recently returned a five-count indictment charging Dakota Hudson, age 20, of St. Amant, Louisiana, with interstate transmission of extortionate communication, coercion and enticement of a minor, production of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. Hudson pled not guilty to the pending charges.

According to the Indictment, on or about January 15, 2024, Hudson knowingly, with the intent to extort from another person anything of value, communicated a threat to injure Minor Victim 1.

The Indictment also alleges that from July 1, 2024, and continuing to an exact date unknown, but at least until about May 12, 2025, Hudson knowingly persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced Minor Victim 2 to engage in sexual activity for which any person can be charged with a criminal offense. On two different occasions in August and September 2024, Hudson knowingly employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced Minor Victim 2 to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. Lastly, the Indictment alleges that Hudson knowingly possessed material that contained images of child pornography on or about June 20, 2025.

If convicted, Hudson faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the interstate transmission of extortionate communication charge, a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison on each charge of production of child pornography, and a maximum penalty of life in prison on the coercion and enticement of a minor charge. Hudson also faces mandatory minimum sentences of 10 years in prison on the coercion and enticement of a minor charge and 15 years in prison on each charge of production of child pornography. Each offense also carries a fine of up to $250,000 and significant periods of supervised release.

"This case is just the latest example of the FBI’s efforts to root out predators who prey on our nation’s children through gaming apps and social media,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “The FBI encourages parents to closely monitor the online activity of their children and be aware of warning signs of potentially sinister activity.”

This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Anderson.

The Department of Justice announced the results of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track, and arrest child sex predators. The nationwide crackdown resulted in over 205 child victims being located and the arrests of over 293 child sexual abuse offenders. The coordinated effort was executed over the course of two weeks by all 56 FBI field offices, the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) in the Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorneys’ offices around the country.

“We will not allow evil criminals who prey on children to evade justice,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Our federal agents have worked tirelessly alongside our state and local partners to track down these vile predators, and now our prosecutors will ensure they receive severe punishments to match their horrific crimes.”

“Operation Relentless Justice shows no child will be forgotten and that all predators targeting the most vulnerable amongst us will be held accountable,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “This year, the FBI has led multiple nationwide surges across the U.S. to find and arrest hundreds of child predators. We will not stop until every child can live a life free of exploitation. We will utilize the strength of all our field offices and our federal, state, and local partners to protect communities across the nation from such horrific crimes.”

Those arrested as part of Operation Relentless Justice are alleged to have committed various crimes, including the production, distribution, and possession of child sexual abuse material; online enticement and transportation of minors; and child sex trafficking. Some of the alleged offenders include an airman out of Dallas, TX, who was arrested with his wife for producing child sex abuse material (CSAM), as well as a Police Officer from Raleigh, NC, who distributed CSAM to an undercover officer while discussing his interest in engaging in sexual contact with children. In another case involving enticement of a minor, the Miami Field Office arrested a Guatemalan national who was previously deported in 2011, and had previous arrests for battery, disorderly conduct, resisting arrest, and carrying a concealed weapon.

This effort follows two other successful operations, including Operation Restore Justice in May, which resulted in the rescue of 115 children and the arrests of 205 child sex abuse offenders, and Operation Enduring Justice in August, which resulted in the rescue of 133 children and the arrests of 234 offenders.

The FBI’s Victim Services Division (VSD) assisted victims during this operation and provided services, to include forensic interviews, referrals for medical and mental health resources, and coordination with partners. VSD’s mission is to inform, support, and assist victims in navigating the aftermath of crime and the criminal justice process with dignity and resilience.

These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. These cases were brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. attorneys’ offices and 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, visit justice.gov/psc.

The Department partners with and oversees funding grants for the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), which receives and shares tips about possible child sexual exploitation received through its 24/7 hotline at 1-800-THE-LOST and on missingkids.org.

The Department remains vigilant against the threat of Nihilistic Violent Extremist (NVE) networks, like 764, that operate within the United States and around the globe. NVEs often target vulnerable individuals, including minors, using social media platforms to share CSAM and gore material, and groom victims toward committing acts of violence. Victims are often extorted, coerced, compelled, and blackmailed into complying with NVE demands, including self-mutilation, online and in-person sexual acts, harm to animals, sexual exploitation of siblings and others, acts of violence, threats of violence, suicide, and murder. For more information on how to protect children and others, read about the online risks here: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/parents-and-caregivers-protecting-your-kids, https://www.ic3.gov/PSA/2025/PSA250306

The Department urges the public to remain vigilant and report suspected exploitation of a child through the FBI’s tipline at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324), tips.fbi.gov, or by calling your local FBI field office.

An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea. 

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Olvin Rodriguez-Inestroza, age 23, of Honduras, to 180 months in federal prison following his conviction for distribution of child pornography. He must serve five years of supervised release after his term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, the Court ordered Rodriguez-Inestroza to pay $57,000 in restitution to the victims and ordered him to register as a sex offender upon his release. Rodriguez-Inestroza, a Honduran citizen who is present in the United States without authorization, may also be deported from the United States upon completing his sentence.

Rodriguez-Inestroza used internet-based accounts and a social media mobile application to distribute, trade, and receive child pornography. In addition to distributing files, he also possessed hundreds of videos and thousands of images of child pornography on his smartphone. Some of the videos included child pornography involving toddlers and two of the videos involved sexual activity with animals.

This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Baton Rouge Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief.

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that a federal grand jury recently returned a one-count indictment charging Evodio Merida-Tavera, age 42, a Mexican national who is present in the United States without authorization, with assaulting federal officers.

According to the indictment, Merida-Tavera used a motor vehicle as a dangerous weapon to assault, resist, oppose, impede, intimidate, or interfere with two United States Border Patrol officers while they were engaged in the performance of their duties.

If convicted of the assault charges, Merida-Tavera faces up to twenty years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Merida-Tavera is also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing any sentence imposed.

This matter is being investigated by the United States Border Patrol, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy S. Johnson.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea. 

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that the Department of Justice’s Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention has awarded $477,943 to the Louisiana Department of Justice (LA DOJ) to support the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force by providing training and technical assistance to affiliate agencies and supporting LA DOJ investigator positions to conduct proactive and reactive investigations of technology-facilitated crimes against children. LA ICAC Task Force computer forensic examiners and investigators will attend training regarding digital forensic examinations and cell phone investigations, as well as conferences such as the Dallas Crimes Against Children Conference and the National Law Enforcement Training on Child Exploitation. Funding will enable the LA ICAC to focus its efforts on investigations, forensics, prosecution, capacity building and public education. The Louisiana ICAC Task Force will continue to combat technology-facilitated child exploitation by identifying, apprehending, and prosecuting child sexual predators. 

United States Attorney Wall stated, “President Trump and the Department of Justice have made protecting our children a top priority. I am excited to see these resources awarded to Attorney General Murrill’s ICAC Task Force. Clearly her team is making a real difference on a daily basis to protect the children of Louisiana from child predators and our office will continue to support those prosecutions in any way possible.”

“As part of our continuing effort to combat the exploitation of children in the State of Louisiana, we are thankful to once again be awarded grant funding from the United States Department of Justice, Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention,” stated Attorney General Liz Murrill. “This grant is vital to the continued growth of the Louisiana ICAC Task Force and ensures our ability to bring to justice those who seek to harm the children of Louisiana.”

For more information about this award, please contact the OJP Office of Communications at 202-307-0703 or OJP.OCOM@ojp.usdoj.gov. 

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that Dennis Loyd Sizemore, age 54, and Gregory Brazell, age 41, both of Lafayette, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to conspiracy to transport a stolen motor vehicle; altering, removing and obliterating a vehicle identification number; possession of fifteen or more unauthorized access devices; and conspiracy to sell or dispose of a firearm and the transfer of a firearm to a prior convicted felon.

According to admissions made as part of their guilty pleas, between October 2021 and March 2022, Sizemore, Brazell, and their co-conspirators, Chrisopher Don Byerley and Adrienne Marie King, carried out a coordinated and complex operation extending across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas, in which the group stole, then used or sold the stolen and altered vehicles, including tractors, excavators, forklifts, and a pickup truck, with a total value of over $250,000.

The conspiracy involved tampering with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) to disguise the identity of stolen property. Use of a chop shop, fraudulent documentation, and false business fronts such as “Hevyquip L.L.C.” to sell stolen equipment and unauthorized possession of over 400 identities and access devices to further conceal their criminal activities

During the investigation, it was determined that Brazell and Sizemore used a third party to illegally purchase a firearm, which was later sold to Byerley, a prior convicted felon, who then installed on the pistol an unregistered silencer.

In February 2022, an investigation of a shoplifting incident in the Juban Crossing Shopping Center led Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives to uncover from a stolen pickup truck being operated by Byerley, the unregistered firearm silencer, an FN Model 509 9mm pistol and ammunition; documentation detailing parts orders for silencers all in Byerley’s handwriting;  multiple text messages and photographs pointing to intent to traffic firearms and circumvent federal regulations; and numerous documents, records, emails, text messages and photos that led law enforcement to uncover the conspiracy and far-reaching criminal enterprise.

Byerley was recently sentenced to 115 months in federal prison following his convictions in this conspiracy.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Saint Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office, Saint Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Iberia Sheriff’s Department, and Lafayette Police Department.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lyman E. Thornton III and M. Patricia Jones. To address the firearm trafficking charges, AUSA Thornton was appointed as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of Louisiana, where he worked in conjunction with Assistant United States Attorney John Nickel.

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Alkeyvin Ennis, age 33, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 153 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Court further sentenced Ennis to serve 13 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered the firearm involved be forfeited. 

According to admissions made during his plea, on or about June 24, 2022, a 2020 Kia Soul was reported stolen to the Baton Rouge City Police Department. On July 8, 2022, officers spotted the stolen Kia Soul traveling westbound on Greenwell Springs Road and began following the vehicle when it then accelerated and ran a red light trying to flee from the officers, ultimately crashing into a residence on North 49th Street and causing significant damage to the residence.

Following the crash, Ennis leapt out of the Kia, and ran to the back of the residence, while being pursued by officers. Officers detained him in the backyard of a house next door. When officers apprehended Ennis, they observed a pair of black gloves he had removed from his hands as he fled. As officers walked Ennis back to their patrol car, they observed that he was wearing a leg holster, black T-shirt, black pants, and boots.

The stolen Kia Soul had red and blue emergency lights attached to the front driver and passenger visors. A tactical vest labeled “Police,” walkie-talkie radio, and black flashlight was located on the passenger floorboard. Very shortly following his arrest, law-enforcement officers learned that Ennis used the firearm, while impersonating a police officer, when he and at least one or two accomplices made a traffic stop of a driver operating a Honda Accord and led the driver to believe they were police officers, pistol whipped the driver on the head, and zip-tied his hands behind his back. During this encounter, the victim/driver broke free and fled at which time Ennis stepped back into the stolen Kia Soul and his accomplice into the victim’s car, and drove off.

After placing Ennis into one of the patrol units, officers searched the area he ran through as he fled looking for the pistol he was carrying in his leg holster but were not able to locate it due to poor lighting conditions.

After his arrest, Ennis made a phone call from prison directing a friend to the location of his arrest and asked the friend to retrieve the pistol he dropped during the flee. The call was monitored and recorded by jail authorities. Officers learned of that recorded phone call and proceeded to spot of the defendant’s arrest, located a Glock 26, 9 mm caliber pistol with an extended magazine just a few feet from where Ennis had been arrested. The firearm was loaded with one round in the chamber.

Ennis was previously convicted of simple burglary on April 2, 2012, in the 15th Judicial District Court and was sentenced to seven years imprisonment with hard labor; possession of ecstasy on July 22, 2015, in the 19th Judicial District Court, and was sentenced to three years imprisonment with hard labor; and attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on December 15, 2021, in the 18h Judicial District Court, and was sentenced to a suspended jail term of seven and a half years while under supervised probation for three years.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Baton Rouge Police Department, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert W. Piedrahita. 

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson ordered the forfeiture of various cryptocurrencies seized from a foreign digital currency exchange. This forfeiture order will now allow the U.S. Department of Justice to begin the process of returning these funds back to the multiple victims, all of whom lost funds in this cryptocurrency emergency scam.

On December 15, 2025, a Final Order of Forfeiture was signed in a civil forfeiture action which formally forfeited 1.96356404 BTC and 60,139.5734 USDT, as digital currency involved in wire fraud and money laundering offenses. This bitcoin and USDT, also known as Tether, were seized from a wallet address in the name of an Indian national, which wallet address was held at a digital currency exchange located in the Seychelles, Africa. The combined forfeited bitcoin and tether are worth over $200,000.

At least four elderly victims were targeted and manipulated to send a certain amount of funds to a cryptocurrency address to supposedly safeguard their funds or to avoid criminal charges. All four of the victims followed the instructions of the subjects by withdrawing cash from their bank accounts, depositing the cash into bitcoin ATMs, and then sending the bitcoin to designated cryptocurrency addresses controlled by the subjects. Of these four victims, all over the age of 70, two resided in Louisiana, one in Texas, and one in Minnesota. The U.S. Secret Service Cyber Fraud Task Force worked with multiple agency partners to gather information from the victims to help trace the scammed funds.

In one case, the victim spoke with whom she believed was her bank fraud department who advised that her bank account had been hacked and that there were “child pornography charges on her account.” After the subject threatened that she would be arrested, the subject advised that she could avoid arrest if she withdrew $31,000 from her account and deposited it into a Bitcoin Depot ATM and subsequently transferred it to a “secure” account designated by the subject. The victim complied. In another case, the victim was advised on her laptop that her device had been hacked and that, to avoid a scheduled automatic payment to a child pornographic website, she had to contact whom she believed was her bank fraud department. After speaking with this supposed bank representative, she was instructed to withdraw $30,000 from her bank account and deposit it into a Bitcoin ATM in two separate, equal amounts of $15,000 and transfer to a wallet address given to her by the bank representative.

A cryptocurrency emergency scam involves subjects who impersonate bank representatives or government officials using high-pressure tactics and fake crises, such as that a victim’s funds are at risk, to trick victims into withdrawing cash from their bank accounts, buying cryptocurrency at an ATM, and then forwarded this cryptocurrency to a supposedly secure account or wallet address. These scams often target the elderly and use urgency to the scammer’s advantage by exploiting victims’ emotions and convincing them that their funds are at risk of being depleted.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service Cyber Fraud Task Force with assistance from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Randall County Sheriff’s Office (Texas), and the Renville County Sheriff’s Office (Minnesota), and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Brady Casey.

The United States Department of Justice implemented an Elder Justice Initiative, which supports the efforts of state and local prosecutors, law enforcement and other elder justice professionals to combat elder abuse, neglect and financial exploitation, with the development of training, resources and information. Learn more about the Justice Department’s Elder Justice Initiative at www.justice.gov/elderjustice.

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that Avelardo Ahumada-Vega, age 49, an illegal alien from Mexico, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to possession of a firearm by an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. 

Ahumada-Vega’s conviction is punishable by up to fifteen years imprisonment. He also faces a $250,000 fine, supervised release, and is subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing his sentence.

According to admissions made during his plea, on August 2, 2025, Ahumada-Vega was encountered by deputies from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office following reports of gunfire around a residence located on Tracy Avenue. When deputies arrived, they observed Ahumada-Vega in a vehicle. When he was removed, he had a Ruger American 9mm pistol in the front waistband of this pants. Ahumada-Vega was given Miranda rights, and he admitted that he discharged a firearm into the air. Ahumada-Vega also admitted to stealing the pistol several months prior to his arrest. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement determined Ahumada-Vega was not a citizen of the United States and was illegally and unlawfully present in the United States.

This matter was being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lyman E. Thornton III and Special Assistant United States Attorney Allen L. Ross.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Christopher Don Byerley, age 45, of Broussard, Louisiana, to 115 months in federal prison following his convictions for conspiracy to transport a stolen motor vehicle; altering, removing and obliterating a vehicle identification number; possession of fifteen or more unauthorized access devices and possession of an unregistered silencer and being a prior convicted felon in possession of a firearm. The Court further sentenced Byerley to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered restitution in the amount of $127,000 to the victims, as well as forfeiture of the pistol and silencer.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, between October 2021 and March 2022, Byerley and his co-conspirators, Robert Gregory Brazell, Adrienne Marie King, and Dennis Loyd Sizemore, carried out a coordinated and complex operation extending across Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and Texas, in which the group stole, then used or sold the stolen and altered vehicles, including tractors, excavators, forklifts, and a pickup truck, with a total value of over $250,000.

The conspiracy involved tampering with Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINs) to disguise the identity of stolen property, use of a chop shop, fraudulent documentation, and false business fronts such as “Hevyquip L.L.C.” to sell stolen equipment and unauthorized possession of over 400 identities and access devices to further conceal their criminal activities

During the investigation, it was determined that Byerley, a convicted felon, used a third party to illegally purchase a firearm, which was later fitted with the unregistered silencer.

In February 2022, an investigation of a shoplifting incident in the Juban Crossing Shopping Center led Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives to uncover from a stolen pickup truck being operated by Byerley an unregistered firearm silencer, an FN Model 509 9mm pistol and ammunition; documentation detailing parts orders for silencers all in Byerley’s handwriting;  multiple text messages and photographs pointing to intent to traffic firearms and circumvent federal regulations; and numerous documents, records, emails, text messages and photos that led law enforcement to uncover the conspiracy and far-reaching criminal enterprise.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Saint Martin Parish Sheriff’s Office, Saint Landry Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, Iberia Sheriff’s Department, and Lafayette Police Department.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lyman E. Thornton III and M. Patricia Jones. To address the firearm trafficking charges, AUSA Thornton was appointed as a Special Assistant United States Attorney in the Western District of Louisiana, where he worked in conjunction with Assistant United States Attorney John Nickel.

A federal grand jury in the Middle District of Louisiana returned an indictment today charging a Texas man with a scheme to obtain controlled substances from multiple pharmacies using fraudulent prescriptions and then sell those drugs on the street.

According to court documents, Darrion Denard Brooks, 28, of Houston, and co-conspirators, used fictitious identification information to obtain fraudulent prescriptions for controlled substances on behalf of patients who either did not exist or for whom medical providers did not authorize the prescriptions. As alleged in the indictment, from November 2023 through March 2025, Brooks and his co-conspirators fraudulently obtained controlled substances from pharmacies in the Baton Rouge area and elsewhere using prescriptions obtained using the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration numbers and other identifying information of at least five medical professionals without their authority. It is alleged that through this scheme, Brooks and his co-conspirators obtained at least 11 fraudulent prescriptions for codeine and other controlled substances from at least eight different pharmacies in Louisiana, Texas, Florida, Georgia and Tennessee.

Brooks is charged with one count of conspiracy to acquire and obtain controlled substances by fraud and to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, and four counts of obtaining possession of controlled substances by fraud. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of four years in prison per count. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Kurt L. Wall for the Middle District of Louisiana; Assistant Administrator Cheri Oz of the DEA Diversion Control Division; and Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) made the announcement.

DEA and HHS-OIG are investigating the case.

Trial Attorney Zakeria A. Haidary of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig for the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

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

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that Godson Oghenebrume, age 22, a Nigerian National residing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to possession of a firearm by an alien admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant visa.

Oghenebrume’s conviction is punishable by up to fifteen years imprisonment. He also faces a $250,000 fine and up to three years of supervised release. He may also be subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing his sentence.

According to admissions made during his plea, on February 7, 2025, Oghenebrume possessed a Glock model 43X, 9mm pistol, while he was admitted to the United States under a non-immigrant F-1 student visa.

Based on the complaint that proceeded the indictment, on the night of February 7, 2025, Oghenebrume was in his apartment when an ex-girlfriend, who is also the mother of his infant child, arrived at the apartment with the baby. Oghenebrume, who had been in the apartment with another young woman, went outside and an argument ensued between him and the mother of his child. During this argument, and while the baby was present, Oghenebrume discharged the firearm.

Oghenebrume went back into his apartment. However, sometime thereafter Oghenebrume’s ex-girlfriend opened his apartment door, observed Oghenebrume and the other young woman in the living room, and she and Oghenebrume began to argue. That argument spilled out of the apartment, and Oghenebrume discharged the firearm more times as the mother of his child fled. Multiple bullet strikes were observed in the walls of the apartment complex.

Oghenebrume then smashed her phone and took the baby, who had been present throughout the incident. Oghenebrume’s ex-girlfriend then approached the other woman, who was attempting to leave, and asked her for help getting the baby. She agreed to help and was able to get the child from Oghenebrume.

When East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputies arrived at the apartment complex, Oghenebrume walked away from them, ignoring their commands, and discarded the Glock model 43X, 9mm pistol into some shrubs. Oghenebrume was detained soon thereafter. Deputies spoke to Oghenebrume’s neighbor, who confirmed hearing shots, and stated his ears had been ringing.

In a post Miranda interview, EBRSO detectives asked Oghenebrume why he had shot the firearm in the apartment complex. He claimed that he had wanted his ex-girlfriend to go home and that he had shot the gun to scare her away.

This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy S. Johnson and Lyman E. Thornton III.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Haskell (Trey) Knight, age 61, and Emily (Ricciardelli) Knight, age 41, both of Franklin, Tennessee, were sentenced to terms of imprisonment for their roles in an investment and bankruptcy fraud scheme. Haskell Knight was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison and Emily Knight was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison. The Court further ordered both to serve two years of supervised release after completing their terms of imprisonment. In addition to their terms of imprisonment, the Court ordered the Knights to pay restitution to their victims.           

According to admissions made as a part of their guilty pleas, the Knights defrauded four individuals out of $50,000 through false and fraudulent claims regarding a startup business, Udoxa. The victims were provided with false information to get them to invest. This included the existence of a rich investor, the availability of formation capital, and the strength of the start-up. After getting the victims’ money, the Knights used the majority of the funds to pay old business debts and for personal expenses. Based on promises made, the victims were expecting to be paid back with interest and to have the option to gain an ownership stake in a legitimate company. Neither of these happened. Instead, elaborate excuses were provided to the victims as to why they were not getting their money, including creating a fake employee and fake IRS liens, to claim that their funds were tied up. 

Shortly thereafter, the Knights filed for Chapter 7 bankruptcy in the Middle District of Florida, and listed the Udoxa victims as unsecured creditors among others. In filing for bankruptcy, the Knights provided false information statement of income, assets and liabilities, as required by law and made numerous false statements under oath at the creditors’ meeting regarding this information. Specifically, they failed to disclose significant income from network marketing businesses as well as liabilities owed from prior business ventures and then gave false information under oath about their finances and more during the creditors’ meeting. The Knights both lied under oath at the creditors’ meeting claiming to be unemployed, despite being employed at the time.

These actions prevented the bankruptcy trustee from properly executing the bankruptcy proceeding, leaving the creditors, like the Udoxa victims, with less money than they should have received and allowing the Knights to walk away from approximately $578,147 in debts while keeping significant funds they were not entitled to keep.

U.S. Attorney Wall stated, “Fraudsters need to understand that this type of criminal conduct will not be tolerated. This sentence is evidence of that effort. We, along with our federal partners, are committed to continuing to bring financial predators, like this couple, to justice.”

“The day of reckoning has come for this duo who have left a trail of financial destruction going back decades,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “We especially thank the victims for their patience in this case. This is a strong example of the unshakeable commitment the FBI has to protecting the American people from criminals who seek to do them harm physically or financially.”

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica M.P. Thornhill, who also serves as Deputy Chief of Economic Crimes Unit.

United States Attorney Kurt Wall announced that a federal grand jury recently returned a five-count indictment charging Jesus Lopez, age 45, Zaira Lopez-Oliva, age 24, Kirsis Castellanos-Kirington, age 30, with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, sex trafficking, and coercing and enticing another to travel interstate for prostitution. Each defendant is a Honduran national that is present in the United States without authorization. They appeared for their arraignments and pled not guilty to the pending charges.

According to the criminal complaint that preceded the indictment, between May 2023 and continuing through October 9, 2025, the defendants used WhatsApp to send photographs of scantily clad women of various nationalities, advertising that they were available for commercial sex acts. They are also alleged to have transported young women from the New Orleans Airport back to the Middle District of Louisiana in furtherance of the sex trafficking operation. The defendants also created a “menu” advertisement on social media to solicit customers for commercial sex acts with those females. The females were allegedly threatened and feared harm if they left the apartments where the commercial sex acts took place. 

If convicted of the sex trafficking charges, each defendant faces a minimum of fifteen years and up to life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. They are also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing any sentences imposed.

This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security—Homeland Security Investigations, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief, Assistant United States Attorney Stephen R. Vick, Jr., and Special Assistant United States Attorney Allen Ross. 

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendants are presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea. 

United States Attorney Kurt Wall announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Edward Shaffett, age 33, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 100 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Court further sentenced Shaffett to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered the firearm involved be forfeited. 

According to admissions made during his plea, on July 22, 2022, Baton Rouge Police officers encountered a stolen 2013 Ford Explorer near 7200 Winbourne Avenue in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. When officers attempted to conduct a traffic stop, the vehicle initially fled. When the vehicle came to a stop, four people fled from the vehicle, with one being Shaffett who was holding a Noreen Firearms, .223 caliber, AR15. When apprehended, Shaffett was wearing a black ski-mask/balaclava and black gloves.

Officers located the firearm along the path through which Shaffett fled. An extended AR15 magazine was located under the driver’s seat of the Ford Explorer. Video camera footage from a police unit depicts Shaffett fleeing from the Ford Explorer with an object in his hands consistent with the AR15.

Shaffett was previously convicted of possession with intent to distribute oxycodone and attempted illegal felon in possession of a firearm on April 20, 2021, in the 19th Judicial District, and sentenced to three years in prison.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Baton Rouge Police Department, was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy S. Johnson. 

United States Attorney Kurt Wall announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Mitchell Robinson, age 35, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 180 months in federal prison following his convictions possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, and tramadol; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The Court further sentenced Robinson to serve five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered the firearms involved be forfeited. 

According to admissions made during his plea, on May 11, 2022, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office deputies executed a “knock” search warrant at Robinson’s residence. In the kitchen, deputies found 2.17 grams of fentanyl, 218.3 grams of methamphetamine, 22.89 grams of methamphetamine, 56 suboxone 8mg/2mg prescription strips, manitol (narcotics cutting agent), 390 suspected tramadol pills inside the house, a digital scale, a Glock, model 17, 9mm handgun modified to be fully automatic, a Glock style 9mm handgun with no serial number, Glock style 30 round magazine, 9mm ammunition, and 4.01 pounds of suspected marijuana. In the attic, deputies found 884.1 grams of methamphetamine, 439.7 grams of methamphetamine, 194.46 grams of fentanyl, 3.12 pounds of suspected marijuana, 55.59 grams of heroin, and $25,960.00 in U.S. Currency. Robinson knowingly possessed all seized items in his home with the intent to distribute those narcotics to others.

Robinson was previously convicted of simple burglary on September 8, 2010, in East Baton Rouge Parish and burglary of a dwelling and aggravated burglary on January 5, 2011, in Ascension Parish.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy S. Johnson. 

United States Attorney Kurt L. Wall announced that a federal grand jury recently returned a three-count indictment charging Kevontae Kendell Joseph Reed, age 30, of Baker, Louisiana, with production of child pornography and possession of child pornography. Reed appeared for his arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges.

According to the Indictment, on two different occasions in January and February of 2024, Reed employed, used, persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct. Additionally, he possessed a black iPhone containing images of child pornography on the relevant dates.

If convicted of the production of child pornography charges, Reed faces a minimum term of imprisonment of fifteen years, and up to thirty years, a $250,000 fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release. If convicted of the possession of child pornography charge, he faces a term of imprisonment of up to ten years, a $250,000 fine, and up to a lifetime of supervised release. In addition to supervised release, Reed will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which may apply throughout his life.

This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security—Homeland Security Investigations and Louisiana State Police and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen Vick and Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief.

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea. 

United States Attorney Kurt Wall announced that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Damian R. Raby, age 42, of Gonzales, Louisiana, to 216 months in federal prison following his convictions for conspiracy to launder money and obstructing the administration of the internal revenue laws, relating to a multimillion-dollar scheme to defraud a COVID-19 economic relief program. The Court further ordered Raby to serve three years of supervised release after completing his term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, the Court ordered Raby to pay $2,603,678.04 in restitution to the U.S. Treasury and forfeit an additional $2,045,241.58.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Raby devised a scheme to defraud the United States, through the Internal Revenue Service, by preparing and filing tax forms fraudulently claiming Employee Retention Credit (ERC) refundable tax credits on behalf of numerous businesses purportedly located in the Baton Rouge area—businesses that either did not exist during the COVID-19 pandemic or that did not have any legitimate business activity prior to the pandemic. The ERC program was a tax credit provided by the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (“CARES” Act), intended to encourage businesses to keep employees on their payroll during the COVID-19 pandemic.

As part of the scheme, Raby filed documents with the IRS asking the IRS to assign Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) to the fraudulent businesses, he opened bank accounts in the names of the fraudulent businesses, and he filed tax forms in which he falsely represented the businesses’ number of employees and payroll amounts and falsely claimed that the businesses were entitled to large tax credits. In total, Raby filed fraudulent applications on behalf of dozens of businesses and caused the IRS to issue more than 30 checks totaling approximately $4.4 million. 

As Raby and his associates received the proceeds of the fraudulent scheme, they would try to conceal and disguise the proceeds by quickly making additional financial transactions and moving the fraudulent proceeds among the various bank accounts Raby controlled. Raby then used the proceeds to make large payments on numerous luxury vehicles, the mortgage of his personal residence, and numerous other large purchases.

Later, after Raby became aware of a pending investigation into his conduct, he obstructed and impeded the investigation, including by making false statements to an IRS agent, sending fictitious documents to the IRS, and encouraging one of the witnesses to provide false information to the IRS.

U.S. Attorney Wall stated, “My office has emphasized that efforts to prosecute COVID-19-related fraud are critical to maintaining the integrity of government relief programs. This sentence is a demonstration of our commitment to protecting public funds from fraudsters using deceptive tactics.”

“Damian Raby is one of many people who defrauded a program designed to help businesses retain employees during the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “He then tried to hide his ill-gotten gains through money laundering. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents are skilled financial investigators who can unravel complex financial transactions and money laundering schemes.”

“This sentencing demonstrates the commitment of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), along with our law enforcement partners, to aggressively investigate those who commit financial crimes that harm the tax administration system and victimize law abiding Americans," stated Special Agent in Charge Joel Weaver. “This case highlights the expertise and dedication of TIGTA special agents, who are determined to protect the financial infrastructure of the United States."

Meanwhile, as part of the investigation, the United States has lawfully seized more than $600,000 from bank accounts controlled by Raby and seized and forfeited a single-family residence in Gonzales, Louisiana that Raby largely acquired with fraudulent proceeds. In addition, and previously in this investigation, the United States convicted Kenyall Williams, age 39, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and make unlawful monetary transactions. As Williams admitted as part of her guilty plea, she became aware that Raby was involved in a criminal scheme and she knowingly became involved in the scheme, by assisting Raby and making financial transactions at his direction in exchange for a small share of the proceeds. The Court sentenced Williams to serve a three-year term of probation, pay $555,069.47 in restitution, and forfeit an additional $41,756.70.

This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, with valuable assistance from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alan A. Stevens, who also serves as Senior Litigation Counsel, and Assistant United States Attorneys Brad Casey and Katherine Green.

Despite the recent government shutdown, federal courts across the nation utilized various resources to guarantee the continuity of justice and continued to operate on essential cases, including criminal prosecutions, immigration hearings, and civil rights violations.

This press release outlines the significant court hearings that were conducted in the Middle District of Louisiana during this period, highlighting their importance in maintaining legal processes and upholding citizens’ rights.

Damian R. Raby, age 42, of Gonzales, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to 216 months in federal prison following his convictions for conspiracy to launder money and obstructing the administration of the internal revenue laws, relating to a multimillion-dollar scheme to defraud a COVID-19 economic relief program. Raby must serve three years of supervised release upon completing his term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, Raby was ordered to pay $2,603,678,04 in restitution to the U.S. Treasury and forfeit an additional $2,045,241.58.

Trisha Milstead, age 53, of Newport, Tennessee, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to 21 months in federal prison following her conviction for wire fraud. Milstead must serve three years of supervised release upon completing her term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, Milstead was ordered to pay $2,623.58 in restitution.

Antonio Felipe Belda, age 39, of Ontario, Canada, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to 120 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession of child pornography. Belda must serve five years of supervised release upon completing his term of imprisonment. In addition to the term of imprisonment, the Court imposed a fine of $17,000, ordered Belda to pay $6,000 in restitution, and ordered him to register as a sex offender upon his release. Belda may also be deported from the United States upon completing his sentence.

Quarles James Harris, age 51, of Zachary, Louisiana, pled guilty before Chief Judge Shelly Dick to bank robbery and related firearms offenses.

Six individuals pled guilty before Judge Brian A. Jackson to various charges, including firearm and drug trafficking offenses resulting from an investigation into a drug trafficking organization based out of Ascension Parish. This case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

• Leroy Miles, age 46, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime;
• Joseph Brown, age 38, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, and distribution of heroin and fentanyl;
• James Miles, age 48, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone;
• Corey Powe, age 56, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime;
• Marishell Ealem, age 39, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone, and distribution of heroin and fentanyl; and
• Destiny Renee McBride, age 35, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute heroin, cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and oxycodone.

A federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment charging Anisha Devall Hunter, age 47, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, with wire fraud. Hunter appeared for her arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges. An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.

U.S. Attorney Kurt Wall stated, “The resilience exhibited by my office and the judiciary during this challenging time underscores the commitment to maintaining the rule of law. We remain committed in our service to the communities within the Middle District of Louisiana.”

The U.S. Department of Justice, Offices of the United States Attorneys, is pleased to announce the appointment of Kurt Wall as the new United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. Mr. Wall officially took office on October 14, 2025.   

U.S. Attorney Wall brings a wealth of experience and a commitment to justice, having previously served as Assistant District Attorney in East Baton Rouge Parish where he remained for 13 years before being hired as the Director of the Criminal Division at the Louisiana Department of Justice. After serving in that position for just over seven years, Mr. Wall returned to the courtroom as the Chief Felony Prosecutor in the 21st Judicial District which is comprised of Livingston, Tangipahoa and St. Helena Parishes.

Throughout his career as a prosecutor, Mr. Wall has successfully handled a wide variety of cases which include numerous violent crimes such as capital murders, sex offenses and robberies. He has also successfully prosecuted hundreds of cases involving child pornography, white collar crimes and public corruption.

His extensive background and relevant experience positions him to effectively lead the Middle District of Louisiana in the pursuit of justice and the enforcement of federal laws. In his new role, Mr. Wall will oversee all federal prosecutions within the Middle District of Louisiana, collaborate with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, and work on initiatives to combat all aspects of federal crimes.

U.S. Attorney Wall stated, “I am honored to have been selected by President Trump to serve as the United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. I look forward to working closely with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to implement a plan that will make a real impact on reducing crime in our community.”

United States Attorney Kurt Wall announces support of DEA’s Annual Prescription Drug Take Back Day to be held on October 25, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. The National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is a bi-annual event that aims to provide a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. This service is free and anonymous, no questions asked.

DEA and its partners will collect tablets, capsules, patches, and other solid forms. Liquids, including intravenous solutions, syringes and other sharps, and illegal drugs will not be accepted. Vaping devices and cartridges will be accepted as long as the lithium batteries are removed.

In addition to DEA’s National Prescription Drug Take Back Day, prescription drugs can be disposed of at any of the 11,000 authorized collectors at any time throughout the year. For more information, visit www.dea.gov/takebackday.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced the conviction of Oscar Hills, IV, age 53, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After a three-day trial before U.S. District Court Judge Brian A. Jackson, the jury unanimously convicted Hills of two counts of wire fraud and two counts of engaging in unlawful monetary transactions. Hills has been living in Honolulu, Hawaii since 2021.

As the evidence at trial demonstrated, between March 2020 and May 2020, Hills submitted several fraudulent loan applications. One of these loan applications was submitted in the name of a supposed business called Bootstate Financial Group under the Payment Protection Plan (“PPP”) program, created by Congress under the CARES Act. Another loan application was submitted in the name of a supposed non-profit called Baton Rouge Teen Summit under the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) program, expanded by Congress under the CARES Act.

In the PPP loan application submitted in the name of Bootstate Financial Group, Hills represented that Bootstate had 40 employees and over $270,000 in average monthly payroll, both of which were material fraudulent representations. The lender relied on these representations by Hills, approving the loan application and depositing PPP loan proceeds of $675,272 into a bank account owned and controlled by Hills. Days later, Hills used $75,500 of these PPP funds to purchase a Dodge Viper.

In the EIDL application submitted in the name of Baton Rouge Teen Summit, Hills represented that this supposed non-profit had 25 employees and over $184,000 in annual operating expenses, both of which were false. The SBA relied on these numbers to approve the loan application and deposited $159,900 in total funds to a bank account owned and controlled by Hills.  Hills subsequently used $23,272 of these EIDL funds to pay eleven years-worth of unpaid property taxes on his residence.

The evidence also demonstrated that this is the second time Hills has been convicted of wire fraud in the Middle District of Louisiana. On April 26, 2010, Hills pled guilty to four counts of wire fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud State Farm, Ascension Credit Union and Eagle Louisiana Federal Credit Union. On March 12, 2011, the late U.S. Chief District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson sentenced Hills to 33 months imprisonment and ordered him to pay over $89,000 in restitution to his victims.   

As a result of this most recent conviction, Hills now faces a maximum term of imprisonment of thirty years, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and supervised release per wire fraud count, and a maximum term of imprisonment of up to ten years, a fine of $250,000, and supervised release per money laundering count.

This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristen L. Craig and John B. Casey.

Anyone with information about allegations of pandemic fraud can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that the Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime has awarded $19,207,912 to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement (“LCLE”) to provide resources to crime victims.

$2,104,000 was awarded to support Louisiana’s VOCA (Victim of Crimes Act) Victim Compensation Program.  This program assists state-administered victim compensation programs, helping to reimburse victims for expenses such as medical care, counseling, lost wages, and other out-of-pocket costs incurred due to a crime.

$17,103,912 was awarded to provide subgrants to local community-based organizations and public agencies that provide services directly to crime victims, such as crisis counseling, telephone and onsite information and referrals, criminal justice support and advocacy, shelter, therapy, and additional assistance.

LCLE is a foundation located in Baton Rouge dedicated to improving the operations of the criminal justice and juvenile justice systems and to promoting public safety by providing progressive leadership and coordination within the criminal justice community.

For more information about this award, please contact the OJP Office of Communications at 202-307-0703 or OJP.OCOM@ojp.usdoj.gov.

An indictment unsealed today in the Middle District of Louisiana charges a Guatemalan national residing illegally in the United States with fraud related to the submission of an application to sponsor an unaccompanied alien child (UAC).

“As alleged, this defendant made fraudulent misstatements to the U.S. government to try to sponsor an unaccompanied child in the United States,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti, of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Defendants who lie to secure the care and custody of an unaccompanied child threaten the government’s ability to ensure that the child is placed in a safe environment with a proper caregiver. The Criminal Division is fully committed to protecting vulnerable children and delivering justice to those who violate the law.”  

“I would like to thank our prosecutor and our partners for their tireless work on this matter,” said U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis. “We are committed to eliminating the exploitation of minors and their families by unscrupulous traffickers, and appreciate the resources which were brought to bear by federal authorities to bring this defendant to justice.”

“Deliberately attempting to defraud a government program designed to safeguard vulnerable children is a reprehensible act that demands accountability,” stated Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “In close coordination with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to rigorously pursue those who attempt to exploit the Unaccompanied Alien Children’s program and ensure they are held fully accountable under the law.”

According to court documents, Felix Coc Choc, 29, of Rogers, Arkansas submitted an application to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) under penalty of perjury to sponsor and obtain custody of a UAC after the UAC entered the United States illegally.

As alleged in the indictment, after a 16-year-old Guatemalan UAC entered the United States illegally in January 2023, Coc Choc submitted an application to sponsor the UAC.  Coc Choc allegedly falsely claimed to be the UAC’s brother and asserted that his own name was J.C.J. as listed on a Guatemala national identification card that he submitted in support of the sponsorship application.  After initially denying that he was using another individual’s identity, Coc Choc admitted to the misrepresentation.  Coc Choc then filed a sponsorship application in his true name.  ORR denied this application as a result of the alleged fraud.

Coc Choc is charged with one count of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement, and one count of aggravated identity theft.  If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the false statement count, and a mandatory consecutive penalty of two years in prison on the aggravated identity theft count.

These charges are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in the Americas, including Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Colombia, and the Caribbean that impact public safety and the security of our borders.  JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, the Northern District of New York, the District of Vermont, and the Southern District of Florida.  Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), the Office of Enforcement Operations (OEO), and the Office of International Affairs (OIA), among others.  JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners.  To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 415 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 355 U.S. convictions; more than 305 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

The Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General is investigating the case.  Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) Legal Attaché team in Guatemala, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR have provided valuable assistance.

JTFA Trial Attorneys Aaron Jennen and Nicole Lockhart, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Craig of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from Samantha Usher of the Justice Department’s Healthcare Fraud Unit.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods.

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

An indictment unsealed today in the Middle District of Louisiana charges a Guatemalan national residing illegally in the United States with fraud related to the submission of an application to sponsor an unaccompanied alien child (UAC).

“As alleged, this defendant made fraudulent misstatements to the U.S. government to try to sponsor an unaccompanied child in the United States,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti, of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Defendants who lie to secure the care and custody of an unaccompanied child threaten the government’s ability to ensure that the child is placed in a safe environment with a proper caregiver. The Criminal Division is fully committed to protecting vulnerable children and delivering justice to those who violate the law.”  

“I would like to thank our prosecutor and our partners for their tireless work on this matter,” said U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis for the Middle District of Louisiana. “We are committed to eliminating the exploitation of minors and their families by unscrupulous traffickers, and appreciate the resources which were brought to bear by federal authorities to bring this defendant to justice.”

“Deliberately attempting to defraud a government program designed to safeguard vulnerable children is a reprehensible act that demands accountability,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “In close coordination with our law enforcement partners, we will continue to rigorously pursue those who attempt to exploit the Unaccompanied Alien Children’s program and ensure they are held fully accountable under the law.”

According to court documents, Felix Coc Choc, 29, of Rogers, Arkansas submitted an application to the Department of Health and Human Services’ Office of Refugee Resettlement (ORR) under penalty of perjury to sponsor and obtain custody of a UAC after the UAC entered the United States illegally.

As alleged in the indictment, after a 16-year-old Guatemalan UAC entered the United States illegally in January 2023, Coc Choc submitted an application to sponsor the UAC. Coc Choc allegedly falsely claimed to be the UAC’s brother and asserted that his own name was J.C.J. as listed on a Guatemala national identification card that he submitted in support of the sponsorship application. After initially denying that he was using another individual’s identity, Coc Choc admitted to the misrepresentation. Coc Choc then filed a sponsorship application in his true name. ORR denied this application as a result of the alleged fraud.

Coc Choc is charged with one count of making a false, fictitious, or fraudulent statement, and one count of aggravated identity theft. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on the false statement count, and a mandatory consecutive penalty of two years in prison on the aggravated identity theft count.

These charges are the result of the coordinated efforts of Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA). JTFA, a partnership with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has been elevated and expanded by the Attorney General with a mandate to target cartels and other transnational criminal organizations to eliminate human smuggling and trafficking networks operating in the Americas, including Canada, Mexico, Guatemala, El Salvador, Honduras, Panama, Colombia, and the Caribbean that impact public safety and the security of our borders. JTFA currently comprises detailees from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices along the southwest border, the Northern District of New York, the District of Vermont, and the Southern District of Florida. Dedicated support is provided by numerous components of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, led by the Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section (HRSP) and supported by the Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS), the Office of Enforcement Operations (OEO), and the Office of International Affairs (OIA), among others. JTFA also relies on substantial law enforcement investment from DHS, FBI, DEA, and other partners. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 415 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling; more than 355 U.S. convictions; more than 305 significant jail sentences imposed; and forfeitures of substantial assets.

HHS-OIG is investigating the case. Homeland Security Investigations’ (HSI) Legal Attaché team in Guatemala, HSI’s Center for Countering Human Trafficking in Washington, D.C., and ORR provided valuable assistance.

JTFA Trial Attorneys Aaron Jennen and Nicole Lockhart, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Craig for the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from Samantha Usher of the Justice Department’s Health Care Fraud Unit. Valuable assistance was also provided by the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and other transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods.

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

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that Romney Manuel, age 51, of Prairieville, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Manuel’s conviction is punishable by a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, a fine of $1,000,000, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made during his plea, beginning on or about April 2020 and continuing to at least March 29, 2021, Manuel conspired with another to devise a scheme to obtain federal funds in the form of LaCAP grant money from the Louisiana Department of Education. During the course of said conspiracy, Manuel and his co-conspirator made a non-existent childcare provider appear operational and manipulated spreadsheets and data systems utilized by the Louisiana Department of Education in order to steal $74,250 in federal funds.

LaCAP grant money is a benefit authorized, transmitted, disbursed, and paid in connection with a Presidentially Declared Major Disaster or Emergency (as those terms are defined in section 102 of the Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emergency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5122)).

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Louisiana State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy S. Johnson.

Anyone with information about allegations of pandemic fraud can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that the Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women has awarded $353,303 collectively to the Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault, Inc. and Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Inc.

The Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault, Inc. was awarded $243,213 to: (a) work with local sexual assault programs and other providers of direct services to encourage appropriate responses to sexual assault within the state or territory; (b) work with judicial or law enforcement agencies to encourage appropriate responses to sexual assault cases; (c) work with courts, child protective services agencies, and children’s advocates to develop appropriate responses to child custody and visitation issues when sexual assault has been determined to be a factor; (d) design and conduct public education campaigns; (e) plan and monitor the distribution of grants and grant funds to their state or territory; and (f) collaborate with and informing federal, state, or local public officials and agencies to develop and implement policies to reduce or eliminate sexual assault.

The Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence, Inc. was awarded $110,090 to coordinating state and territory victim services activities and collaborate and coordinate with federal, state, territory, and local entities engaged in violence against women activities.

For more information about this award, contact the Office on Violence Against Women at 202-307-6026 and ask for the Policy, Communication, and Evaluation Division.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced the conviction of Alexander Brock, age 59, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. After a three-day trial before U.S. District Court Judge John W. deGravelles and less than an hour of deliberation, the jury unanimously convicted Brock of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.

As the evidence at trial demonstrated, between July 31, 2018 and August 9, 2019, Brock acted as a middleman by repeatedly brokering ounce-quantity deals between his four co-conspirators, all of which have been convicted in this case, to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine in East Baton Rouge and Iberville Parishes, while also converting cocaine into crack cocaine and distributing those substances to his own customers. In addition to finding Brock guilty, the jury determined that the conspiracy involved more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 28 grams of crack cocaine.

As a result of his conviction, Brock now faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of forty years as well as a fine of up to $5 million and supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Jarreau, who also serves as Deputy Chief of the Organized and Violent Crimes Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and Benjamin Anderson.

The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

V.Ships Norway A.S. (V.SHIPS) pleaded guilty today to violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships and was sentenced to pay a $2 million fine. V.Ships admitted that oily bilge water and oily waste was discharged from the Motor Tanker Swift Winchester (M/T Swift Winchester) and the discharges were omitted from the Oil Record Book.  

“Dumping oil-contaminated waste into the waters around our ports and coasts violates the law and poses an unnecessary health and environmental hazard,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “The crew took pains to hide their illegal activity by knowingly keeping inaccurate records. We will not turn a blind eye to this kind of irresponsible and fraudulent activity.”

“The Gulf of America and the Texas ports are amazing places with great natural beauty. They are also vital to our economy,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs for the Eastern District of Texas. “When a foreign ship operated by a foreign company discharges polluting wastes, it threatens waters that are vital to the United States and the state of Texas. We will hold those responsible for polluting the Gulf of America accountable.”

“The criminal prosecution of this case underlines our commitment to enforcing the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis for the Middle District of Louisiana. “The illegal discharge of bilge water and oily waste from vessels poses a significant threat to our waters and marine life and by holding those accountable who violate these standards, we send a clear message that we will not tolerate actions that endanger our environment. We remain dedicated to ensuring that the maritime industry operates responsibly and in compliance with environmental laws.”

“Coast Guard Marine Inspectors, Pollution Responders and Investigating Officers undergo rigorous and specialized training to detect and gather evidence of environmental crimes. This expertise alongside our federal partnerships was crucial to the successful prosecution of this violation,” said Capt. Jennifer Andrew, the Commanding Officer of Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur. “The Coast Guard maintains one of the world’s most comprehensive and thorough vessel inspection programs, and we will continue to leverage this robust capability to ensure strict compliance with domestic and international maritime laws.”

Between February 2022 and August 2022, a hose was connected between the incinerator waste oil tank and the sewage holding tank on the M/T Swift Winchester. This allowed oily waste to transfer into the sewage holding tank and then to be discharged directly into the sea, bypassing required pollution prevention equipment. A low-ranking engine crewmember reported this to a Superintendent at V.Ships. The Superintendent investigated the matter and discovered what appeared to be oil in the sewage tank. V.Ships dismissed the Chief Engineer.  In August 2022, the new Chief Engineer ordered the engine crew to clean the Oil Water Separator (OWS) filter. The engine crew took the filter onto the deck and hosed it down with a degreaser and the oily waste washed directly overboard through a scupper.

Coast Guard members from U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur conducted an examination, during which an engine room crewmember disclosed the discharges and provided photographic and video evidence documenting the illegal discharges. The M/T Swift Winchester entered Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on Aug. 25, 2022, and Port Arthur, Texas, on Sept. 7, 2022, with a knowingly falsified Oil Record Book.

U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service investigated the case.

Senior Trial Attorney Kenneth E. Nelson and Trial Attorney Lauren Steele of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Batte for the Eastern District of Texas, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Warner for the Middle District of Louisiana prosecuted the case.

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25-XXX

V.Ships Norway A.S. (V.SHIPS) pleaded guilty today to violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships and was sentenced to pay a $2 million fine. V.Ships admitted that oily bilge water and oily waste was discharged from the Motor Tanker Swift Winchester (M/T Swift Winchester) and the discharges were omitted from the Oil Record Book.  

“Dumping oil-contaminated waste into the waters around our ports and coasts violates the law and poses an unnecessary health and environmental hazard,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Adam Gustafson of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “The crew took pains to hide their illegal activity by knowingly keeping inaccurate records. We will not turn a blind eye to this kind of irresponsible and fraudulent activity.”

“The Gulf of America and the Texas ports are amazing places with great natural beauty. They are also vital to our economy,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jay R. Combs for the Eastern District of Texas. “When a foreign ship operated by a foreign company discharges polluting wastes, it threatens waters that are vital to the United States and the state of Texas. We will hold those responsible for polluting the Gulf of America accountable.”

“The criminal prosecution of this case underlines our commitment to enforcing the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships” said Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis for the Middle District of Louisiana. “The illegal discharge of bilge water and oily waste from vessels poses a significant threat to our waters and marine life and by holding those accountable who violate these standards, we send a clear message that we will not tolerate actions that endanger our environment. We remain dedicated to ensuring that the maritime industry operates responsibly and in compliance with environmental laws.”

“Coast Guard Marine Inspectors, Pollution Responders and Investigating Officers undergo rigorous and specialized training to detect and gather evidence of environmental crimes. This expertise alongside our federal partnerships was crucial to the successful prosecution of this violation,” said Capt. Jennifer Andrew, the Commanding Officer of Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur. “The Coast Guard maintains one of the world’s most comprehensive and thorough vessel inspection programs, and we will continue to leverage this robust capability to ensure strict compliance with domestic and international maritime laws.”

Between February 2022 and August 2022, a hose was connected between the incinerator waste oil tank and the sewage holding tank on the M/T Swift Winchester. This allowed oily waste to transfer into the sewage holding tank and then to be discharged directly into the sea, bypassing required pollution prevention equipment. A low-ranking engine crewmember reported this to a Superintendent at V.Ships. The Superintendent investigated the matter and discovered what appeared to be oil in the sewage tank. V.Ships dismissed the Chief Engineer.  In August 2022, the new Chief Engineer ordered the engine crew to clean the Oil Water Separator (OWS) filter. The engine crew took the filter onto the deck and hosed it down with a degreaser and the oily waste washed directly overboard through a scupper.

Coast Guard members from U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur conducted an examination, during which an engine room crewmember disclosed the discharges and provided photographic and video evidence documenting the illegal discharges. The M/T Swift Winchester entered Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on Aug. 25, 2022, and Port Arthur, Texas, on Sept. 7, 2022, with a knowingly falsified Oil Record Book.

U.S. Coast Guard Marine Safety Unit Port Arthur and the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service investigated the case.

Senior Trial Attorney Kenneth E. Nelson and Trial Attorney Lauren Steele of ENRD’s Environmental Crimes Section, Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Batte for the Eastern District of Texas, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Warner for the Middle District of Louisiana prosecuted the case.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Kevan Andre Hills, 32, Devin Tyrone Stampley, Jr., 33, and Asia Deshan Guess, 28, all of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to terms of imprisonment today.  Stampley was sentenced to 104 months in federal prison, Hills was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison, and Guess was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for their roles in schemes to obtain controlled substances from pharmacies using fraudulent prescriptions with the stolen identities of licensed medical professionals, and to obtain funds from federal pandemic assistance programs by submitting false and fraudulent applications.

According to court documents, Hills, Stampley, and Guess caused the submission of fraudulent prescriptions for controlled substances, such as Promethazine with Codeine and Hydrocodone, to Medicaid, causing Medicaid to be fraudulently billed for filling those fraudulent prescriptions. They used the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration numbers and other identifying information of several physicians and other medical providers, without authority, on the fraudulent prescriptions. As part of the scheme to unlawfully obtain controlled substances for resale, Stampley burglarized a pharmacy in Louisiana.

Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators also submitted, caused to be submitted, and assisted others in submitting numerous false and fraudulent applications for federal funds, seeking at least $293,498 in funds administrated by the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program, and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act unemployment benefits. Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators submitted and caused to be submitted falsified bank statements, tax forms, and other documents in support of the fraudulent PPP applications. Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators defrauded the federal pandemic assistance programs of at least $87,663 by posing as fake small business owners and residents in need of assistance. Upon receipt of the illegal funds, Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators made electronic transfers and personal purchases. 

Guess illegally sought at least $125,978 in federal funds, including federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits under the CARES Act for eligible workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Guess caused the submission of fraudulent applications and claims for unemployment benefits to the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC), Maine Department of Labor (Maine DOL), and other state workforce agencies around the country. Guess assisted in the submission of falsified application details, such as her employment history and residency, to appear eligible for PUA funds and other benefits. Guess fraudulently obtained at least $15,859 in unemployment insurance benefits from the LWC and Maine DOL.

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen L. Craig of the Middle District of Louisiana, and Trial Attorneys Gary A. Crosby II and Samantha E. Usher of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.

Anyone with information about allegations of pandemic fraud can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that the Department of Justice’s Office of Violence Against Women, has awarded $3,382,830 to the Louisiana Commission on Law Enforcement (“LCLE”) to provide resources to help Louisiana agencies combat violent crimes against women and to develop and strengthen victim services.

$2,474,419 was awarded through the STOP (Services, Training, Officers, Prosecutors) Violence Against Women Formula Grant Program. The goal of the grant program is to develop and strengthen law enforcement, prosecution, and court strategies to combat violent crimes against women and to develop and strengthen victim services, including community-based, culturally specific services, in cases involving domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking.

$908,411 was awarded through the Sexual Assault Services Formula Program. This program directs grant dollars to states and territories to assist them in supporting rape crisis centers (including governmental rape crisis centers not in territories and tribal governmental programs) and nonprofit, nongovernmental organizations that provide core services, direct intervention, and related assistance to victims of sexual assault, regardless of age. Funds provided through the SAS Formula Program are designed to supplement other funding sources directed at addressing sexual assault on the state and territorial levels.

LCLE is a foundation located in Baton Rouge dedicated to improving the operations of the criminal justice and juvenile justice systems and to promoting public safety by providing progressive leadership and coordination within the criminal justice community.

For more information about this award, contact the Office on Violence Against Women at 202-307-6026 and ask for the Policy, Communication, and Evaluation Division.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that Beverly Watson McNabb, age 62, of Greensburg, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to theft of government funds. McNabb’s federal program theft conviction is punishable by a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made during her plea, the United States Social Security Administration (“SSA”) deposited retirement benefits via direct deposit to McNabb’s elderly family member, known as R.W., into his commercial bank account, which account McNabb had access.

R.W. passed away on or about December 5, 2015. From December 5, 2015, until at least April 07, 2020, McNabb stole R.W.’s SSA benefits that she knew she was not entitled to use. For approximately five years, McNabb used the stolen funds to purchase a wedding dress, as well as other personal items from a variety of sources, such as restaurants, supermarkets, and prison commissary for friends. McNabb also made numerous cash withdrawals directly from the bank account for other personal purchases. In total, McNabb stole approximately $50,000 in federal program benefits.

This matter is being investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General and the United States Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief. 

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis, together with federal, state, and local law enforcement officials, announced the successful outcomes of recent multi-agency operations aimed at reducing violent crime in Baton Rouge and surrounding communities.

Over the past several months, these coordinated efforts have resulted in 52 federal indictments charging 68 defendants in connection with drug trafficking, illegal firearm and other violent crime offenses, and the seizure of illegal firearms, narcotics, and other contraband that contribute to the cycle of violence.

Agencies announcing the results are the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Marshal’s Service, Louisiana State Police, Louisiana Probation and Parole, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Baton Rouge Police Department, and East Baton Rouge District Attorney’s Office.

Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison Travis stated, “These initiatives underscore the importance of collaboration among law enforcement agencies. Enhanced information-sharing and resource allocation among participating agencies are instrumental to effectively combat violent crime. I would like to thank the Department of Justice and Governor Landry for surging federal and state resources to help fight crime in Baton Rouge.”

“From the very beginning, I made a commitment to reduce crime across our state. We started that mission in New Orleans and achieved remarkable success. Now, thanks to the strong collaboration between our federal, state, and local partners, we are taking down violent criminal networks throughout the Capital Region,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “Operation Violent Crime Takedown was a huge success, made possible by the unwavering dedication of our law enforcement officers. This is just the beginning. Together, we are ushering in a new era of safety and opportunity for Baton Rouge and for communities across Louisiana.”

“The FBI was proud to be part of this mission, and we brought Agents and intelligence personnel from our Violent Crime Rapid Deployment Team from offices across the country, to Baton Rouge,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “The FBI is committed to crushing violent crime across Louisiana and looks forward to working with our partners and the public to achieve that goal.”

“This summer surge operation to address violent gun and narcotics crime demonstrates ATF’s expertise and shows ATF’s collaboration with federal, state and local partners to have meaningful impact on combating crime,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “Working in coordination with law enforcement partners to meet the collective objectives of political leaders, community leaders, and citizens to enhance public safety is the priority of ATF.”

“Today isn’t about one agency; it’s about a united front against crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) New Orleans Division. “We fully support Governor Landry’s efforts to ensure those who pose a threat to our communities are held accountable. The DEA will continue to bring its resources to bear in support of this vital mission.”

“The Louisiana State Police is proud to have played a key role in this summer’s crime reduction operations, working closely with our local, state, and federal partners to target gangs and violent offenders in Baton Rouge,” said Colonel Robert P. Hodges, Louisiana State Police Superintendent. “Our collaborative efforts have contributed to a measurable reduction in violent crime in targeted areas, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to keeping our communities safe and holding offenders accountable.”

East Baton Rouge Sheriff Sid Gautreaux stated, “The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is proud to continue working hand-in-hand with our local, state, and federal partners in the fight against violent crime. This summer, our deputies worked tirelessly to make our community safer, focusing our efforts on taking high-level violent offenders and drug traffickers off our streets. We are especially grateful for the federal support that provided the financial resources necessary to sustain these operations and maximize our impact. Collaboration and shared commitment are key to protecting our citizens, and we remain steadfast in doing our part to ensure the people of East Baton Rouge Parish can live in a safer, stronger community.”

“A large-scale warrant apprehension operation involving multiple law enforcement agencies has led to numerous arrests, narcotics and firearms being recovered from Baton Rouge streets,” said Gary Westcott, Secretary, Louisiana Department of Public Safety and Corrections. “I’m proud of the Department’s 41 Division of Probation and Parole (P&P) officers and Bravo Special Response Team members from five (P&P) district offices and headquarters who participated in the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Violent Gun Reduction and Interdiction Program. This strategic partnership was able to yield results that help make communities safer.”

Baton Rouge Police Chief T.J. Morse stated, “The Baton Rouge Police Department is grateful for the federal, state, and local partners that all came together to combat violent crime through shared resources, technology, and targeting of serious felon offenders over the last several months. Our department committed countless hours of manpower and professional work to this initiative in the efforts of public safety and strive to make the city of Baton Rouge a safer community. With more than a dozen officers assigned to federal task forces, we look forward to the ongoing partnerships and cooperation in future operations.”

The federal cases stemming from these investigations are being prosecuted by a team of Assistant U.S. Attorneys.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. Defendants are presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.  

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that a federal grand jury recently returned an indictment charging Shengjie Cheng, age 32, a Chinese national residing in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, through a student visa, with attempted enticement of a minor. Cheng appeared for his arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges.

According to the indictment, on or about March 31, 2025, Cheng used social media applications and the name “Marvellous Pirate” to attempt to convince someone he believed was a 15-year-old girl in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to engage in an illegal sexual relationship.

If convicted, Cheng faces a minimum of ten years and up to life imprisonment. Cheng also faces a $250,000 fine, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and sex offender registration requirements. He is also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing his sentence.

This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children) Task Force, and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Allen Ross.

An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that a federal grand jury recently returned a two-count indictment charging Kleider Enrique Garcia Ochoa, age 30, a Venezuelan national who is present in the United States without authorization, with attempted enticement of a minor and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. Ochoa appeared for his arraignment and pled not guilty to the pending charges.

According to the indictment, on or about March 31, 2025, Ochoa used social media applications and the name “Conociendo” to attempt to convince someone he believed was a 15-year-old male in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to engage in an illegal sexual relationship. Ochoa is also alleged to have transferred obscene material to the supposed 15-year-old male.

If convicted, Ochoa faces a minimum of ten years and up to life imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, up to a lifetime of supervised release, and sex offender registration requirements. He is also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing his sentence.

This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Allen Ross.

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

An indictment is an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea. 

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Randevois Ingram, age 28, of Tickfaw Louisiana, to 60 months imprisonment in federal prison following his conviction for distribution of cocaine and fentanyl. The Court further sentenced Ingram to serve four years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, between May 2, 2024, and June 27, 2024, Ingram distributed controlled substances containing cocaine and fentanyl to a confidential source working under the direction of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations.

This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul L. Pugliese.

The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that Thomas Mills V, age 58, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to possession of child pornography. A jury trial had commenced before Mills entered his guilty plea.

According to admissions made during his plea, on or about October 22, 2018, officers with the Zachary Police Department were dispatched to an area on Highway 19 in reference to a suspicious vehicle. An anonymous caller advised that an unknown male was parked in an alley behind a party store. Upon arrival, officers approached the entrance of the alleyway and encountered Mills who was the driver and sole occupant of a 2008 Honda Fit. Mills exited the vehicle and initially told officers that he was cleaning his car behind the buildings. He then advised he was using the internet to send emails. Mills presented officers with his Louisiana driver's license, which indicated that he was a resident of Baton Rouge and a registered sex offender.

Because Mills initially told officers that he lived in Zachary but was registered as a sex offender in Baton Rouge, officers believed that Mills was possibly in violation of state sex offender registration laws. Mills was observed acting nervously when speaking with the officers. Despite officers requesting Mills to remain in front of one of the patrol vehicles as they attempted to verify his information, Mills was observed moving towards his vehicle and was ordered to return to the front of the patrol unit on three separate occasions. While officers were questioning Mills about the address discrepancy, they approached Mills' vehicle and observed a laptop computer in plain view on the driver's side floorboard and a USB storage device on the front passenger seat.

Officers initiated a criminal history check on Mills which revealed Mills had a previous federal felony conviction for possession of child pornography in 2012. After learning this information, Mills was asked if he was on probation. Mills responded affirmatively, identified his probation officer, and provided their contact information. Officers also verified that the 2008 Honda Fit was registered to Mills.

While on scene, officers contacted the probation officer and learned that Mills was in violation of his conditions of supervised release by possessing a computer and computer components such as USB storage devices. The probation officer requested that officers seize the electronic devices in Mills' possession.

After securing Mills inside of unit, officers recovered approximately nineteen electronic devices from Mills' vehicle. The nineteen devices seized from Mills were sent to a forensic examiner with U.S. Probation and Pretrial for forensic analysis. The analysis revealed approximately 1,325 pictures and 6 videos depicting child exploitation images. 

In 2013, Mills was sentenced to 62 months imprisonment for his 2012 conviction for possession of child pornography.

This matter was investigated by the Zachary Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Eli J. Abad and Ben Wallace.

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that Olvin Rodriguez-Inestroza, age 22, a Honduran national who is present in the United States without authorization, pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick to distribution of child pornography.

According to admissions made during his plea, Rodriguez-Inestroza used internet-based accounts and a social media mobile application to distribute child pornography. In addition to the distributed files, Rodriguez-Inestroza also possessed at least 205 total videos and approximately 325 images of child pornography on his smartphone. Some of the videos included child pornography involving toddlers.

Rodriguez-Inestroza’s conviction is punishable by a minimum of five years and a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to a lifetime period of supervised release. The conviction also includes sex offender registration requirements. He is also subject to removal or deportation from the United States upon completing his sentence.

This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and Baton Rouge Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief.  

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

This case is also part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that a federal jury unanimously convicted Benjamin Thomas, III, age 52, of Hammond, Louisiana, of five counts of failing to truthfully account for and pay over federal trust fund taxes. The verdict followed a three-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson. Thomas had been living in the Dominican Republic since early 2023.

As the evidence at trial demonstrated, beginning in or around 2013, Thomas owned, operated, and controlled a company called Lighthouse Community Care, Inc. (“Lighthouse”), a mental health services clinic based in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. As the business expanded, Thomas opened several locations all across Louisiana and hired more than 100 employees.

Throughout the company’s existence, Thomas would withhold “trust fund taxes” from his employees’ paychecks - the federal income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes that employers withhold from their employees’ paychecks and are required to pay to the IRS on a quarterly basis.  But he often failed to timely file Lighthouse’s quarterly employment tax returns and consistently failed to pay over to the IRS the withheld funds. For the five specific time periods charged in the Indictment, the first three quarters of 2017 and the first two quarters of 2018, Thomas failed to truthfully account for and pay over more than $970,000 in trust funds.

As the evidence at trial demonstrated, the IRS frequently communicated with Thomas through written notices, phone calls, and an in-person interview to remind him of his tax obligations and encourage him to pay what he owed. Meanwhile, he diverted more than $350,000 in company funds to a vacation home in the Dominican Republic, more than $400,000 to a separate management company that he controlled, and more than $500,000 to a family trust that he created.  Thomas also spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on luxury automobiles (including a Lamborghini and a McLaren), private school tuition, and high-end clothing, jewelry, and accessories.

“The defendant willfully failed to satisfy one of the most fundamental obligations business owners face - to truthfully account for and pay over the federal income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes that they withhold from their employees’ paychecks,” said Acting United States Attorney Travis. “Instead, he treated his company’s bank accounts like his own personal ATM. I sincerely appreciate the jury’s verdict and the work of our federal agents and our office’s prosecutors, who worked diligently to hold the defendant accountable for his criminal activity.”

“Employees expect their employers to turn over the employment taxes that are taken out of their paychecks to fund future Social Security and Medicare benefits,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Employers who fail their responsibilities are possibly harming their employees’ future benefits, while also stealing from taxpayers. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents are working on behalf of taxpayers to investigate and hold accountable those who commit these financial crimes.”

This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation Division, with valuable assistance from the United States Marshals Service (USMS) and the USMS’s law enforcement partners in the Dominican Republic. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alan A. Stevens, who also serves as Senior Litigation Counsel for the Criminal Division, and Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin M. Anderson.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced criminal charges against two defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud government benefit programs. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.

“We are taking significant strides in our ongoing battle against health care fraud within the Middle District of Louisiana. These fraudulent activities not only undermine the integrity of our health care system, but also jeopardize the well-being of countless patients who rely on these essential services, stated Acting U.S. Attorney Travis. “Our office is committed to holding accountable those who seek to exploit vulnerable individuals for personal gain. This takedown is a testament to the dedication and collaboration of law enforcement partners, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure justice is served and integrity is restored in our health care system.”

“This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”

The charges announced today by Acting U.S. Attorney Ellison C. Travis are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants for their alleged participation in health care fraud and illegal drug diversion schemes that involved the submission of over $14.6 billion in alleged false billings and over 15 million pills of illegally diverted controlled substances. The defendants allegedly defrauded programs entrusted for the care of the elderly and disabled to line their own pockets, and the Government, in connection with the Takedown, seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, and other assets.

The following individuals were charged in the Middle District of Louisiana:

• Cody Hulbert, 41, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and theft of government funds in connection with a scheme to submit fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) program, and unemployment insurance applications. As alleged in the indictment, Hulbert and her co-conspirators fraudulently obtained at least approximately $51,474 from the fraudulent PPP applications, sought at least approximately $12,391 from at least one fraudulent EIDL application, and obtained at least approximately $5,654 in unemployment insurance benefits.
• Britney McCoy, 31, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged by indictment with one count of wire fraud and one count of making false statements in a loan and credit application in connection with a fraudulent PPP scheme. As alleged in the indictment, McCoy submitted and caused to be submitted false and fraudulent loan applications and other documents to lenders and others to obtain funds and loan forgiveness through the PPP. In total, McCoy fraudulently sought and obtained at least approximately $22,884 in PPP funds based on the false and fraudulent applications.

“The scale of today’s takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said HHS-OIG Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”

“These charges, stemming from the meticulous work of DEA’s Baton Rouge District Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Middle District of Louisiana, highlight our unwavering commitment to holding accountable those who illegally divert controlled substances,” said DEA New Orleans Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Arnett. “We stand united with our law enforcement partners to protect our communities and ensure justice for those who exploit programs designed for the most vulnerable.”

The Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, and Texas Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Arizona, Central District of California, Northern District of California, Southern District of California, District of Columbia, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle, District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Middle, District of Georgia, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Kentucky, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Maine, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Northern District of Mississippi, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nevada, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Western District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, District of North Dakota, Northern District of Ohio, Southern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, District of South Carolina, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Washington, and Northern District of West Virginia; and State Attorney Generals’ Offices for Arizona, California, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Missouri, New York, Ohio, and Pennsylvania are prosecuting the cases in the National Health Care Fraud Takedown, with assistance from the Health Care Fraud Unit’s Data Analytics Team. Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available at https://www.justice.gov/criminal/criminal-fraud/2025-national-health-care-fraud-takedown

The Middle District of Louisiana, in particular, worked with the Department’s Criminal Division and the following law enforcement organizations to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the enforcement period: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General.

These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig of the Middle District of Louisiana and Trial Attorney Gary A. Crosby II of the Gulf Coast Strike Force.

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

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that Paris Lashay Haynes, age 28, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to wire fraud.

According to admissions made as part of her guilty plea, from approximately April 2020 to March 2021, Haynes was employed with the Louisiana Workforce Commission (“LWC”) as a customer service representative. In this position, she was responsible for assisting individuals with their unemployment insurance claims.

The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (“CARES”) Act was a federal law enacted in March of 2020 to provide emergency financial assistance to individuals suffering the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among other provisions, the CARES Act expanded unemployment insurance eligibility and benefits for workers who lost their jobs as a result of the pandemic (“Pandemic Unemployment Assistance” or “PUA”).

The LWC located in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, administered the PUA program for the State of Louisiana. The LWC maintained a self-service system for PUA applications, identified as “HiRE.” For claims filed or accessed via the internet, the LWC’s website captured certain data surrounding the interaction between the individual and the HiRE system. This information tied to the user-entered information for the claim, such as name, address, or bank account information.   

As an employee of the LWC, Haynes was assigned credentials that allowed her to access LWC’s HiRE system, including individual claimant accounts. Beginning on or about April 2020, and continuing through at least March 2021, she devised a scheme to defraud by entering false and fraudulent information in the HiRE system, via interstate wires, in order to obtain PUA benefits to which she was not entitled. Haynes used her credentials to access the HiRE system from her residence in Texas and elsewhere. Thereafter, she made changes, without lawful authority, to the accounts of inactive PUA claimants. Specifically, Haynes changed usernames, passwords, and email addresses associated with the accounts. She then logged into claimant accounts and changed the claimants’ preferred method of payment, including their bank routing information, in order to re-direct PUA benefits to her own bank accounts or to accounts under her control. After changing their bank information, Haynes filed false and fraudulent weekly certifications in the names of UI claimants, causing LWC to transmit UI funds in the names of other individuals to her.

Beginning in or around March 2021, and continuing through at least June 2022, Haynes also electronically submitted PUA applications to the LWC in her own name in which she falsely certified that she was unemployed due to the COVID-19 pandemic when, as she well knew, her prior employment had been terminated due to her own misconduct.

During the course of the scheme, Haynes accessed and made changes to approximately forty (40) claimant accounts in order to redirect PUA program benefits to her own bank accounts or to accounts under her control. In total, Haynes obtained at least $200,000 in PUA benefits to which she was not entitled.

This matter is being investigated by the Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen Lundin Craig. 

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that federal criminal complaints and arrest warrants were issued charging three Baton Rouge men with multiple offenses stemming from an undercover firearm-trafficking operation that turned violent on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. Torion Bobbs, age 20, and Cordell Simms, age 19, are each charged with assault on a federal officer and robbery, and Caylup Anderson, age 18, is charged with robbery and aiding and abetting. 

 The criminal complaints and supporting affidavits allege that on June 17, 2025, agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Task Force arranged two separate purchases of a firearm equipped with a machine-gun conversion device (sometimes called a “Glock switch”) outside the Triple S Food Mart on North Foster Drive. When agents moved to detain the suspects, an exchange of gunfire followed, injuring one ATF agent and Sims. All three suspects fled before Sims was arrested nearby, with Anderson and Bobb being apprehended thereafter.

“Our office has zero tolerance for assaults on law enforcement officers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Travis. “When criminals raise a gun at those who protect our communities, we will answer with the full force of federal law. Yesterday’s swift federal charges reflect the seamless teamwork of the FBI, ATF, Baton Rouge Police Department, East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Louisiana State Police. Their rapid, coordinated response ensured these defendants were taken off the streets within hours of the crime.”

“ATF’s primary focus is to support public safety and address violent crime with our federal, state, and local partners. This is particularly true when it comes to crimes perpetuated through illegal possession and use of firearms,” said ATF New Orleans SAC Joshua Jackson. “These swift charges represent another example of ATF working with our law enforcement partners to hold those accountable who choose to use firearms to engage in violent crime within our communities.”

“The rapid response of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to the events on North Foster Street proves that we will not tolerate any assault on law enforcement officers nor will we tolerate violent criminals who put the community in danger,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office. “With the continued assistance of the public, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to get violent criminals off our streets.”

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eli Abad. 

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.  

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that Trisha Milstead, age 53, of Newport, Tennessee, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to wire fraud. 

According to admissions made as part of her guilty plea, beginning in May 2024 and continuing through July 2024, Milstead engaged in a scheme to defraud two credit unions and three small businesses - a business in Tennessee that sells recreational vehicles (RVs) and travel trailers, a used car dealership in North Carolina, and a new and used car dealership in Gonzales, Louisiana.

Milstead opened new accounts online at a financial institution based in California and attempted to fund the accounts by initiating wire transfers from an account that she purportedly held at another financial institution based in Mississippi, knowing that she did not have any account at the Mississippi institution and that the transfers were fraudulent. Before the financial institutions realized that Milstead’s transfers should be reversed, however, she accessed the first institution’s online “bill payment” system and issued several large checks drawn on her accounts.

Milstead used one of the fraudulent checks in the amount of $38,000, to obtain a Ford F-150 Raptor truck from a dealership in North Carolina, another fraudulent check in the amount of $49,044.42 to obtain a 2020 Cadillac XT5 luxury sport utility vehicle from a dealership in Gonzales, Louisiana, and other fraudulent check in the amount of $35,350 to attempt to purchase a recreational vehicle from the business in Tennessee.

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations and the Gonzales Police Department with valuable assistance from Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Department and Rutherford County (North Carolina) Sheriff’s Department.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alan A. Stevens, who also serves as Senior Litigation Counsel.

Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Blake Joseph Steiner, age 37, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 86 months in federal prison following his conviction for distribution of child pornography. The Court further sentenced Steiner to serve five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered him to complete sex offender treatment and register as a sex offender upon his release.

According to admissions made during his plea, Steiner initiated a conversation on a mobile application group chat with an undercover agent (“UCA”). Steiner hoped to gain access to a group that was dedicated to sharing and trading child pornography. To gain access, Steiner first sent the UCA a video of himself and the date to verify his identity. In another effort to gain access to what he thought was an online child pornography group, Steiner sent a video of a girl under 12 years old being raped by an adult male.  Steiner further admitted to the UCA that he managed another child pornography group online and that he engaged in hands-on conduct involving a minor. 

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security - Homeland Security Investigations, and the Louisiana State Police and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief.   

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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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 http://www.justice.gov/psc.

Ellison C. Travis has been appointed by President Trump as the Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. Mr. Travis replaces April M. Leon, who has held the position since February 2025.

Mr. Travis stated, “I am honored that President Trump has appointed me Acting United States Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana. Our office will work every day with our federal, state, and local partners to execute Operation Take Back America, reduce violent crime, and enforce federal law in our district.”

Mr. Travis served as Executive Assistant United States Attorney since July 2023. He previously served as Acting United States Attorney in 2021, as well as First Assistant United States Attorney from 2018-2023. Previously, he was with the Louisiana Department of Justice for over twenty years. During his tenure with the Louisiana Department of Justice, Mr. Travis served as the Director of the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, Criminal Division (2017-2018), as an Assistant Attorney General in the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (2002–2017), and as an Assistant Attorney General in the Criminal Division (1997–2002). Mr. Travis also served as an Assistant District Attorney (1990–1996). During his thirty-five years in public service, he prosecuted all manner of criminal matters, including violent crimes, financial crimes, and public corruption. Mr. Travis helped author and pass legislation to penalize those who commit electronic abuse of persons with infirmities and those who commit public program fraud. He also represented the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in the state Legislative Task Force on Medicaid Fraud Prevention.

Mr. Travis received his J.D. from Louisiana State University, Paul M. Hebert Law Center, and his B.A. in Economics from Louisiana State University.

Acting United States Attorney April M. Leon announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Leslie Henry Wilson, age 53, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 12 months in federal prison following her conviction for failure to pay federal taxes. The Court further sentenced Wilson to serve three years of supervised release following her term of imprisonment and ordered her to pay $598,774.51 in restitution.

From January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2023, Wilson was the sole owner of Personal Touch Healthcare Services, LLC, which provides outpatient assisted living services, and Personal Touch Respite Center, LLC, which provides temporary housing for homeless people with special needs. Each of these businesses employed workers and operated in and around the Baton Rouge metropolitan area. Wilson managed and oversaw all aspects of these two companies, including payroll and taxes.

During that time, Wilson failed to pay over $598,774.51 to the IRS on behalf of her businesses and employees. Specifically, she withheld hundreds of thousands of dollars in payroll (i.e., FICA) taxes from her employees but kept the money for herself instead of paying it to the IRS. Further, she also failed to pay the employer portion of the FICA taxes for her employees. FICA payroll taxes are used to fund Social Security and Medicare benefits for all Americans.

This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ben Wallace.

Acting United States Attorney April M. Leon announced that three Baton Rouge individuals pled guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Brian A. Jackson in connection with schemes to obtain controlled substances from pharmacies using fraudulent prescriptions with the stolen identities of licensed medical professionals, and to obtain funds from federal pandemic assistance programs by submitting false and fraudulent applications.

Kevan Andre Hills, age 31, Devin Tyrone Stampley, Jr., age 33, and Asia Deshan Guess, age 28, all of Baton Rouge, admitted that they caused the submission of fraudulent prescriptions for controlled substances, such as Promethazine with Codeine and Hydrocodone, to Medicaid, causing Medicaid to be fraudulently billed for filling those fraudulent prescriptions. They used the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registration numbers and other identifying information of several physicians and other medical providers, without authority, on the fraudulent prescriptions. As part of the scheme to unlawfully obtain controlled substances for resale, Stampley burglarized a pharmacy in Louisiana.

Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators also submitted, caused to be submitted, and assisted others in submitting numerous false and fraudulent applications for federal funds, seeking at least $293,498 in funds administrated by the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program, and Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act unemployment benefits. Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators submitted and caused to be submitted falsified bank statements, tax forms, and other documents in support of the fraudulent PPP applications. Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators defrauded the federal pandemic assistance programs of at least $87,663 by posing as fake small business owners and residents in need of assistance. Upon receipt of the illegal funds, Hills, Stampley, and their co-conspirators made electronic transfers and personal purchases. 

Guess illegally sought at least $125,978 in federal funds, including federal Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits under the CARES Act for eligible workers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Guess caused the submission of fraudulent applications and claims for unemployment benefits to the Louisiana Workforce Commission (LWC), Maine Department of Labor (Maine DOL), and other state workforce agencies around the country. Guess assisted in the submission of falsified application details, such as her employment history and residency, to appear eligible for PUA funds and other benefits. Guess fraudulently obtained at least $15,859 in unemployment insurance benefits from the LWC and Maine DOL.

Hills, Stampley, and Guess pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud. Hills and Stampley pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated identity theft and one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Stampley pleaded guilty to one count of burglary of a pharmacy.  Guess pleaded guilty to one count of theft of government funds.

Each count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of thirty years in prison, each count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison, each count of theft of government funds carries a maximum penalty of ten years in prison, each count of burglary of a pharmacy carries a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison, and each count of aggravated identity theft carries a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; April M. Leon, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana; Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Dallas Region, Baton Rouge Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Hofer of the DEA, New Orleans Division; and Special Agent in Charge Casey J. Howard of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG), Central Region, made the announcement.

HHS-OIG, DEA, and DOL-OIG are investigating the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig for the Middle District of Louisiana and Trial Attorneys Gary A. Crosby II and Samantha E. Usher of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.