Middle District of Louisiana

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced the conviction of Jonathan Francis Kimbrell, a 45-year-old resident of Livingston, Louisiana.  Kimbrell was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 20, 2019, and charged with the attempted enticement of a minor.

After a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles, the jury unanimously convicted Kimbrell after deliberating for approximately two hours.  As the evidence at trial demonstrated, from May 2, 2019, until June 6, 2019, the defendant communicated online with two undercover FBI agents.  The defendant believed that he was communicating with an 11-year old girl, her stepfather, and her mother, when in fact, the FBI agents had undertaken those online personas.  The defendant believed that the “stepfather” had been repeatedly molesting his “stepdaughter” and was now offering the “child” for sexual encounters by another adult.  The defendant did his best to convince the stepfather, mother, and child that he should be allowed to join in molesting the child.  Hundreds of emails were exchanged over more than 30 days in which Kimbrell sent numerous graphic emails describing how he would have sex with the child.  Kimbrell also did his best to convince the three that sex would be better with him than with the stepfather.  During the conversations with the fictitious child, Kimbrell developed and encouraged the nicknames of “Turtle” for himself and “Princess” for the child.   Eventually, Kimbrell met the undercover agents who he believed to be the stepfather and mother at a restaurant in Denham Springs to discuss the ground rules for his first sexual encounter with the 11-year old girl.  At this meeting, the defendant believed the child to be waiting in a motel room across the parking lot.  Kimbrell was arrested as he left the restaurant walking toward the motel where he believed the child was waiting.  When he was arrested, Kimbrell was found to be in possession of two boxes of condoms, personal lubricant, and baby oil.  Kimbrell was also in possession of a rhinestone key chain that spelled out “Princess,” which he had purchased as a gift for the child.

As a result of this conviction, Kimbrell faces a maximum sentence of not less than ten years and up to life in federal prison, a fine of $250,000, and supervised release of not less than five years and up to life.  In addition to the supervised release, Kimbrell will be subject to federal and state sex offender registration requirements, which will apply throughout his life.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Justice was achieved today.  The evidence presented at trial clearly established that the defendant took several steps to engage in sexual conduct with a minor and that he worked continuously to achieve his goal. This conviction illustrates that protecting our children from people like Jonathan Kimbrell will continue to be a top priority of this office.  I commend the excellent work of the prosecutors and agents involved in this important matter, and we look forward to continuing to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue offenders who target the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge, stated,  “Protecting children against predators is paramount.  The FBI’s Baton Rouge Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Task Force intercepted Jonathan Kimbrell while he was enroute to meet an 11-year old child for the purposes of engaging in sex.  The men and women of the FBI New Orleans Field Office will continue to aggressively pursue those who attempt to harm and exploit children.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Frederick A. Menner, Jr. and Demetrius D. Sumner.   

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Wallace Byers, age 60, of Miami, Florida, to 121 months in federal prison following his conviction for wire fraud.  The Court further sentenced Byers to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and ordered him to pay restitution in the amount of $6,880,000.

According to admissions made as part of Byers’ guilty plea, between October 2014 and November 2018, he solicited victims in the Baton Rouge area and elsewhere to invest with his company, WBI Associates, Inc., promising victims large returns in a short time frame.  Byers focused his solicitations on older individuals and those who had been victims of prior schemes.  He promised his victims that the money would be invested, variously, in gold production, a lottery company, foreign currency, or “dark pools” or “blind pools.”  Whenever his victims pressed for returns or refunds of their money, Byers gave various excuses for delays – the money was invested overseas, other individuals had to “sign off,” or more money needed to be invested before any was paid out.  In truth, instead of investing the money as promised, Byers spent the money on personal expenditures, including among others, approximately $10,000 per month in rent for his residence in a Miami hotel, the lease of luxury cars, and gambling in casinos.  Byers admitted that he received between $3,500,001 and $9,500,000 as a result of his scheme, $3,000,000 of which he sent to a Swiss bank account he controlled.  Byers also admitted that he had two prior federal felony convictions, one of which was for a similar wire fraud scheme.

As part of the investigation, the FBI seized several bank accounts controlled by Byers, including the funds in the Swiss bank account.  The FBI also seized $260,000 in cash, $230,000 of which was seized from one of his safe deposit boxes, and $30,000 of which was seized from a safe in his residence.  Byers’ interest in these bank accounts, in the cash, and in other items has been forfeited.  All property forfeited to the United States, including the cash and the funds in the bank accounts, will be made available for distribution to all of the victims.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “Preventing and prosecuting elder fraud is a priority of the Department of Justice, and this sentence should serve as a warning to those who would commit crimes against our vulnerable citizens that we will use all of our resources, both here and abroad, to bring offenders to justice and punish those that break the law.  I applaud the efforts of our prosecutors and the FBI in the conviction of this defendant and seizing proceeds of the theft.” 

Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge stated, “Wallace Byers left his victims broke and betrayed.  Unfortunately, the investment funds and life savings stolen from vulnerable members of our community has negatively impacted each of their lives.  Throughout his endeavors, Byers demonstrated a lack of integrity, self-control, and morals, as he defrauded elderly victims from seven different states.  I hope today’s sentence serves as a small victory for all his victims who remain traumatized by his actions. If you believe you are a victim of elder fraud, please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI or online at https://tips.fbi.gov.”

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations - Baton Rouge Field Office, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth E. White, Peter J. Smyczek, Demetrius D. Sumner, and J. Brady Casey, and former Assistant United States Attorney Jay Thompson. 

The Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative aims to combat elder financial exploitation by expanding efforts to investigate and prosecute financial scams that target seniors; educate older adults on how to identify scams and avoid becoming victims of financial fraud; and promote greater coordination with law enforcement partners. For more information please visit: https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice.

Daniel Davis, 44, a former major at Louisiana State Penitentiary (LSP) in Angola, Louisiana, was found guilty by a jury yesterday in federal court for his participation in the beating of an inmate who was handcuffed, shackled, and not resisting and for failing to intervene to stop his subordinates from participating in the same beating. In a previous trial in January 2018, Davis was convicted of conspiring with other officers to cover up the beating by devising a false cover story, submitting false reports documenting that cover story, tampering with witnesses, and lying under oath. Davis was also previously convicted of this beating in November 2018, but was granted a new trial based on juror misconduct.

Four other officers—former LSP Captains James Savoy, John Sanders, and Scotty Kennedy, and former Sergeant Willie Thomas—have all previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the beating and cover up.  At Davis’s trial, Captains Sanders and Kennedy testified for the government and described the abuse and the extensive cover up.

After hearing testimony over the course of three days, the jury convicted Davis of willfully depriving the inmate of his right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment. The evidence showed that Davis initiated the beating by yanking the inmate’s leg chains, causing the inmate to fall face-first onto the concrete breezeway. At that point, Davis and the other officers punched, kicked, and stomped on the inmate, leaving the inmate with a dislocated shoulder, a hematoma, a collapsed lung, and broken ribs. 

“The Constitution and its Bill of Rights protect all people in our nation from unlawful abuse by the government, and the Department of Justice will continue to prosecute officers who willfully violate the Constitution by abusing their power over those in custody,” said Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “This officer violated his oath and the law, and the Department of Justice will not tolerate this kind of criminal misconduct by correctional officers.”

U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin stated, “Corrections officers are charged with the duty of protecting the public, not abusing those who have been lawfully incarcerated.  This district contains several penal institutions, and this should serve as a warning to those who would abuse their power that federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies will relentlessly pursue those who violate the public trust.  I commend all of the agencies responsible for this conviction, and want to thank them for their partnership in this important matter.”

“Correctional officers have an obligation to protect inmates serving their sentences as ordered by the court,” said Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge. “Daniel Davis abused his authority by inflicting physical harm upon an inmate that was restrained and non-combative.  His actions are a disgrace to all correctional officers who serve ethically and continue to maintain high moral standards throughout our correctional facilities. I commend the men and women of the FBI’s Baton Rouge Resident Agency Office, Louisiana Office of the State Inspector General, and the Department of Justice Civil Rights trial attorneys for their commitment to uphold the constitution and protect all Americans.”

“This is a just verdict,” said Louisiana Inspector General Stephen Street. “We cannot and will not tolerate the abuse of the considerable power afforded corrections officers. Whenever it does occur, it is critical to hold offenders criminally accountable in order to protect the integrity of the system. The jury did exactly that with Mr. Davis, and it was worth the time and effort to obtain this result. Thanks again to our federal partners at the FBI and DOJ.”

No date has been set for Davis’s sentencing. He faces a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment on the conspiracy and perjury counts, 10 years of imprisonment on the excessive force count, and 20 years of imprisonment on each of the remaining obstruction counts.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Baton Rouge Resident Agency Office and the Louisiana Office of the State Inspector General.  It was prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Zachary Dembo and Anita Channapti of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section.  Trial Attorney Christopher J. Perras of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Frederick A. Menner Jr., of the Middle District of Louisiana also assisted in the case.

Daniel Davis, 44, a former major at Louisiana State Penitentiary (LSP) in Angola, Louisiana, was found guilty by a jury yesterday in federal court for his participation in the beating of an inmate who was handcuffed, shackled, and not resisting and for failing to intervene to stop his subordinates from participating in the same beating. In a previous trial in January 2018, Davis was convicted of conspiring with other officers to cover up the beating by devising a false cover story, submitting false reports documenting that cover story, tampering with witnesses, and lying under oath. Davis was also previously convicted of this beating in November 2018, but was granted a new trial based on juror misconduct.

Four other officers—former LSP Captains James Savoy, John Sanders, and Scotty Kennedy, and former Sergeant Willie Thomas—have all previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the beating and cover up.  At Davis’s trial, Captains Sanders and Kennedy testified for the government and described the abuse and the extensive cover up.

After hearing testimony over the course of three days, the jury convicted Davis of willfully depriving the inmate of his right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment. The evidence showed that Davis initiated the beating by yanking the inmate’s leg chains, causing the inmate to fall face-first onto the concrete breezeway. At that point, Davis and the other officers punched, kicked, and stomped on the inmate, leaving the inmate with a dislocated shoulder, a hematoma, a collapsed lung, and broken ribs. 

“The Constitution and its Bill of Rights protect all people in our nation from unlawful abuse by the government, and the Department of Justice will continue to prosecute officers who willfully violate the Constitution by abusing their power over those in custody,” said Attorney General Eric Dreiband for the Civil Rights Division. “This officer violated his oath and the law, and the Department of Justice will not tolerate this kind of criminal misconduct by correctional officers.”

U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin stated, ““Corrections officers are charged with the duty of protecting the public, not abusing those who have been lawfully incarcerated.  This district contains several penal institutions, and this should serve as a warning to those who would abuse their power that federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies will relentlessly pursue those who violate the public trust.  I commend all of the agencies responsible for this conviction, and want to thank them for their partnership in this important matter.”

“Correctional officers have an obligation to protect inmates serving their sentences as ordered by the court,” said  Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge. “Daniel Davis abused his authority by inflicting physical harm upon an inmate that was restrained and non-combative.  His actions are a disgrace to all correctional officers who serve ethically and continue to maintain high moral standards throughout our correctional facilities. I commend the men and women of the FBI’s Baton Rouge Resident Agency Office, Louisiana Office of the State Inspector General, and the Department of Justice Civil Rights trial attorneys for their commitment to uphold the constitution and protect all Americans.”

“This is a just verdict,” said Louisiana Inspector General Stephen Street. “We cannot and will not tolerate the abuse of the considerable power afforded corrections officers. Whenever it does occur, it is critical to hold offenders criminally accountable in order to protect the integrity of the system. The jury did exactly that with Mr. Davis, and it was worth the time and effort to obtain this result. Thanks again to our federal partners at the FBI and DOJ.”

No date has been set for Davis’s sentencing. He faces a maximum penalty of five years of imprisonment on the conspiracy and perjury counts, 10 years of imprisonment on the excessive force count, and 20 years of imprisonment on each of the remaining obstruction counts.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Baton Rouge Resident Agency Office and the Louisiana Office of the State Inspector General.  It was prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Zachary Dembo and Anita Channapti of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section.  Trial Attorney Christopher J. Perras of the Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Frederick A. Menner Jr., of the Middle District of Louisiana also assisted in the case.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Donovan J. Barker, age 61, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 57 months in federal prison following his conviction for operating an unlicensed money transmitting business.  The Court further sentenced Barker to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and the United States anticipates that the Court will soon order forfeiture in the amount of $642,373.

According to admissions made during Barker’s plea, between September of 2012 and May of 2016, individuals known to Barker conspired to distribute carisoprodol, tramadol, and other substances, by shipping the pills in bulk into the United States, to be broken down into smaller quantities that would then be shipped to individual purchasers.  For a time, Barker helped the individuals by accepting the bulk drug shipments at his home and mailing the drugs out to individual purchasers.  In January of 2013, law enforcement agents seized more than 50,000 dosage units of tramadol and carisoprodol from Barker’s residence and advised him to stop assisting the effort to import the substances into the United States.

Following the January 2013 seizure, Barker began operating as a money transmitter for the individuals involved in the scheme.  As drug sales were generated, Barker would receive the proceeds of the sales (i.e., accept payments for the drugs from the individual buyers) and wire the proceeds to other individuals and businesses.  Barker formed and operated several business entities, including Quantum Information Technologies, Caring Partners 1, LLC, Don Western Sky, LLC, Life Positive Services, LLC, and Healthy Life 1, LLC that he used to assist the scheme.

In total, from October 2012 through February 2016, Barker through his businesses, received more than $4.6 million in payments from individuals all across the United States.  This included more than $1.3 million in credit card payments made to him via electronic transfer, and more than $750,000 in checks and money orders, from individuals all across the United States who had purchased controlled substances and other substances over the internet.  As Barker received the money, he wired the vast majority of the money out to other individuals and businesses, through hundreds of transactions.  For instance, he paid the shipping charges incurred by members of the conspiracy, which exceeded $100,000.  Moreover, on more than two hundred (200) different occasions, Barker transmitted proceeds from the operation to foreign bank accounts in the Philippines, India, China, and Canada.  Accordingly, Barker was unlawfully and knowingly operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, in violation of federal criminal statutes enacted to combat the use of money transmitting businesses to transfer the proceeds of criminal activity.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “In our effort to stop sophisticated criminals who facilitate and finance the illegal distribution of controlled substances, we will use every legal tool at our disposal, including long-term financial investigation and the money laundering and money transmitting statutes.  I commend the collaborative efforts of all of the agents and prosecutors who worked on this case and made this unique prosecution a success.”

“The sentencing of Donovan Barker for his role in smuggling funds from illegal drug transactions in and out of the United States is a victory for the American public and a defeat to drug traffickers everywhere.  The special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation continue in their mission to disrupt the flow of ill-gotten gains that is the life-blood for these criminals,” said Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Holloman III, Atlanta Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation.  “We will continue to be relentless in our mission to dismantle these drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”

DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael R. Sader said, “Criminals who attempt to thwart the efforts of law enforcement through money laundering schemes and businesses will not triumph.  The DEA, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue all avenues to deny drug traffickers and money launderers the one thing they value the most – their profit.  The sentencing of this individual should put on notice those who engage in this type of illegal activity.”

“The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to ensuring the U.S. Mails are not used as a tool to distribute narcotics to our communities,” said Adrian Gonzalez, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge of the Houston Division.  “The sentence handed down today should serve as a reminder to other perpetrators engaged in this type of criminal behavior that we will work closely with our law enforcement partners to bring them to justice.”

This matter is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with critical assistance from the Louisiana Office of Financial Institutions.  The matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alan A. Stevens, Kashan Pathan and Robert Piedrahita.  The investigation received valuable assistance from the Baton Rouge Police Department, the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement—Homeland Security Investigations, and the Louisiana State Police, and other federal, state, and local agencies.

The investigation is another effort by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program that was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers.  Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations and related criminal enterprises.  The OCDETF Program operates nationwide and combines the resources and unique expertise of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. 

United States Attorney Brandon Fremin announced that United States District Court Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Ivan Alexi Mejia-Alvarado, age 44, of Honduras, to serve 21 months in federal prison following his conviction for illegal re-entry into the United States by a removed alien.  The Court specified that Mejia-Alvarado’s federal sentence would run consecutively to any sentence he may receive on a pending state charge for simple battery.  During the sentencing hearing, the Court found that Mejia-Alvarado was subject to enhanced statutory penalties based on his 2002 prior conviction in California for forcible rape and stalking.

On June 4, 2019, Mejia-Alvarado was found at the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison by a Department of Homeland Security Deportation Officer.  After obtaining Mejia-Alvarado’s biometric data, the deportation officer confirmed his true identity and his status as a citizen and national of Honduras, who had been previously removed from the United States on at least two occasions, at or near Chandler, Arizona, on or about February 23, 2005, and December 29, 2008.  

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Aliens who have previously been convicted of violent felonies in our country and who return after being removed pose a serious threat to the safety of our citizens. Our office is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to apprehend, convict, and remove this menace from our country. I want to thank our prosecutor and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.”

“This case is an excellent example of ICE’s ongoing focus to prioritize its enforcement efforts toward individuals who pose the greatest threat to public safety and egregiously violate our nation’s immigration laws,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Acting New Orleans Field Office Director Bill Joyce.  “Despite attempts by some groups to confuse the public, it is a federal crime to illegally enter the U.S. and those who reenter after having been previously removed commit a federal crime as this case clearly shows.”

This matter was handled by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Caroline Gardner. 

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that Fatima Sesay, age 28, of Laurel, Maryland, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to obstruction of justice.  As a result of her guilty plea, Sesay faces a significant term of imprisonment, fines, and a period of supervised release.

Beginning in 2017, the Export-Import Bank of the United States, Office of Inspector General (EXIM Bank), and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, working with a federal grand jury sitting in Baton Rouge, were conducting an investigation into a cyberfraud that affected a business in Greenwell Springs, Louisiana.  After the victim company shipped approximately $67,000 of its products to a customer in Amman, Jordan, the customer received a series of fraudulent e-mails directing it to send payment to an account at Wells Fargo Bank.  Relying on the messages and wiring instructions, the customer wired the requested funds to the account.  The Louisiana-based victim had not sent the e-mails, however, and unbeknownst to the customer, the wiring instructions were fraudulent.

Several weeks later, Wells Fargo closed the account, and issued a check for the closing balance, approximately $106,000, which included the fraudulent proceeds of the scheme described above, to the individual whose name appeared on the account, Individual A.  On July 20, 2016, the check was deposited into an account at Bank of America, which had been opened in Maryland earlier that year by Sesay in the name “Pearl Global, Inc.,” a limited liability company that Sesay had formed.  EXIM Bank, the official export credit agency of the United States, had insured the underlying transactions between the Louisiana business and its customer.  Upon realizing that the businesses had been defrauded, EXIM Bank’s Office of Inspector General began investigating possible violations of criminal laws arising out of these events.

Federal authorities contacted Sesay and made several attempts to secure truthful information from her about her knowledge of the scheme.  Instead, as Sesay has admitted, she made numerous statements intended to mislead and deceive the federal grand jury investigation.  First, in January of 2019, she participated in an interview with federal agents and made a number of evasive or misleading statements.  For example, when Sesay was asked about the check that was deposited into her bank account, she said that she had attempted to deposit the check, but claimed that she did not know how she received the check and did not recall how she may have deposited it.  Second, in April of 2019, she testified before the grand jury in Baton Rouge and repeatedly provided inaccurate, misleading, and false answers.  Sesay gave false answers intended to minimize the extent of her relationship with one of the subjects of the investigation, for instance, and falsely claimed that she did not have any information about a particular phone number relevant to the investigation, despite the fact that she had purchased the phone and was its registered subscriber.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Obstructing the federal grand jury from fulfilling its lawful duties will not be tolerated in this district.  We will continue to use federal resources, which are uniquely qualified to combat cyber fraud, to protect our businesses and bring these criminals to justice.  I want to thank our prosecutor and the Export-Import Bank, Office of Inspector General, for its work on this conviction.”

EXIM Bank is the official export credit agency of the United States, and assists in financing the export of U.S. goods and services to international markets. Complaints and reports of waste, fraud, and abuse related to EXIM Bank programs and operations can be reported to the OIG hotline at 888-OIG-EXIM (888-644-3946) or via email at IGhotline@exim.gov.

This matter is being investigated by the Export-Import Bank of the United States – Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alan A. Stevens, who serves as Senior Litigation Counsel of the Criminal Division.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today the sentencing of Byron A. Lawson, age 40, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as part of Operation Hidden Fee, an extensive federal, state, and local investigation by the Middle District Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) aimed at a drug trafficking network based and operating in Baton Rouge.   

Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Lawson to 125 months in federal prison following his convictions of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine base; distribution of methamphetamine and crack cocaine; and unlawful use of a communications facility.  Lawson must also serve five years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.  

According to admissions Lawson made as part of his guilty plea, in 2017, the Drug Enforcement Administration and East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office were investigating the drug trafficking activities of James C. Hull.  During this investigation, they learned that Lawson was one of Hull’s suppliers of methamphetamine.  Investigators gathered information that, on the average, Lawson supplied Hull, four to six ounces of methamphetamine on a weekly basis.  Law enforcement agents also identified Michael Nelson, another customer, who received ounce amounts of methamphetamine from Lawson.  During this investigation, agents identified Travis James as a source of cocaine and crack cocaine for Lawson.  In one instance, James supplied Lawson over 500 grams of cocaine, which Lawson distributed later to two customers from Mississippi. 

Nelson has pending methamphetamine and cocaine trafficking charges in the Middle District of Louisiana.  Trial has not yet been set.   A grand jury indicted Travis James for various cocaine and heroin related violations and his trial is set in April 2020. 

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Stopping organized drug dealers who spread their poison throughout our community is among the highest priorities of this office and the United States Department of Justice.  Convictions and jail sentences such as this are made possible through the dedicated teamwork of our federal, state, and local partners.  I want to thank them all for their efforts in this case.”

"With this conviction and sentencing, DEA and its federal, state, and local law enforcement partners have taken down a member of a drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine in the Middle District of Louisiana. These illegal dangerous drugs are destructive poisons that threaten the health and safety of our communities.  We will continue to work together to target criminal organizations to ensure that drug traffickers are held responsible for the harm they cause," said DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael R. Sader.

“The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the U.S. Attorney’s commitment to prosecuting these cases on the federal level,” Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said.  “We will continue to dedicate our personnel and resources to initiatives that ensure the safety of our community.”

The investigation is yet another effort by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program, which was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers.  Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations and related criminal enterprises.  The OCDETF Program operates nationwide and combines the resources and unique expertise of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations.       

This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration with invaluable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Baton Rouge City Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police.  Other agencies also assisted in apprehending the defendants, including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, and the Sheriffs’ Offices in Ascension, Iberville, and West Baton Rouge Parishes. 

These cases were being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Piedrahita and Lyman E. Thornton III, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Cal Leipold.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced West Clark, age 40, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 54 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.  The Court further sentenced Clark to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearm involved be forfeited.

According to admissions Clark made as part of his guilty plea, on July 2, 2014, DEA Task Force Officers executed a state search warrant for an apartment where Clark resided in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  During a search of the apartment, officers found a Taurus Model PT111 Millennium Pro, 9mm semi-automatic pistol, which was loaded with 10 cartridges, as well as 59.1 grams of heroin belonging to Clark.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Clark was convicted in East Baton Rouge Parish in 2004 for possession of cocaine, and in 2006 for attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.  Clark also had two prior federal convictions in the Middle District of Louisiana for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in 2006, and illegal conversion of government property in 2007.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Sending repeat offenders to prison is another example of our commitment to fight violence and how the collaborative efforts of the federal, state, and local law enforcement can make our streets safer.  I want to thank our prosecutor, ATF, DEA, and the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office for their efforts.”

“In our commitment to disrupt violent gun crime in our community, ATF in this joint effort, will continue to focus on convicted felons, like West Clark, who possess a firearm in conjunction with narcotics violations,” said ATF Baton Rouge Field Office Resident Agent in Charge Mary Downie.  “Reducing firearm related crimes and keeping our community safe is the top priority for ATF.”

DEA Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael R. Sader said, “The collaborative effort of federal and local law enforcement in Baton Rouge, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, has led to the sentencing of this career criminal and ultimately safer streets within our community.  DEA will continue to work tirelessly to protect our communities and hold accountable those who threaten our safety.”

This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the following Project Guardian partners: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office.  For more information about Project Guardian, please see: https://www.justice.gov/projectguardian

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with substantial assistance from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul Pugliese.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Craig Davis, age 49, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 200 months in federal prison following his convictions for possession of firearms by a convicted felon and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana.  The Court further sentenced Davis to four years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearms involved be forfeited.

According to admissions Davis made as part of his guilty plea, on September 28, 2017, following an undercover drug buy at his residence, Baton Rouge Narcotics Detectives executed a state search warrant for the residence. 

During the execution of the warrant, Davis admitted to possessing a Smith & Wesson, model 19, .357 caliber revolver; a Mossberg, model 500BB, 16 gauge shotgun; a Winchester, model 77, .22 caliber rifle; methamphetamine; and marijuana and voluntarily led detectives to various locations of these items in and around the residence. 

Prior to possessing the firearms, Davis was convicted of attempted simple robbery in March 2012, possession of cocaine in February 2012, and first degree robbery in September 2001.  Each of Davis’ prior convictions occurred in East Baton Rouge Parish.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Keeping violent career criminals who possess firearms and drugs off of our streets is among the highest priorities of this office.  We will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to remove this type of threat from our community. Congratulations to our prosecutor, the ATF, and the Baton Rouge Police Department for their great work on this case.”

“The sentence imposed today sends a message to individuals who are prohibited from possessing firearms that they will be held accountable for their actions,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Powell.  “Reducing firearm related crimes and keeping our neighborhoods and communities safe is the top priority for ATF.”

This case is part of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. The United States Attorney’s Office has prosecuted this case with support from the following Project Guardian partners: the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Baton Rouge Police Department. 

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with substantial assistance from the Baton Rouge Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Jefferson. 

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Tevontae Harris, age 25, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 97 months in federal prison to run consecutive with his other pending state charges, following his conviction of possessing a firearm by a convicted felon.  The Court further sentenced Harris to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearm and ammunition involved be forfeited.   

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on March 18, 2019, Livingston Parish Sheriff deputies were conducting surveillance of Harris’ condo complex in Denham Springs, Louisiana.   While there, they observed Harris retrieve a Mirco Draco, 7.62x39 mm semi-automatic pistol from the trunk of his vehicle.  Harris then brought the firearm into his residence. LPSO obtained a search warrant for Harris’ residence and recovered the firearm he was seen carrying into his residence.  The firearm was loaded with an extended magazine containing 30 rounds of ammunition.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Harris was convicted in St. Landry Parish in January 2019, of attempted simple robbery.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Keeping firearms out of the hands of violent felons is a high priority for this office and our federal and local partners.  This conviction and sentence sends a message that we will make every effort to ensure our communities are free of armed felons.  I want to congratulate our prosecutor, the ATF, and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office for their work on this case.”

“In our effort to disrupt violent gun crime in our community, ATF will continue to focus efforts on prohibited individuals, like Tevontae Harris, who unlawfully possess firearms,” said ATF Baton Rouge Field Office Resident Agent in Charge Mary Downie.  “Reducing firearm related crimes and keeping our neighborhoods safe is the top priority for ATF.”

Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard stated, ‘We do our best to be observant and to introduce the best evidence we can to prosecutors.  I’m proud of my skilled deputies and am grateful that they choose to serve and protect in Livingston Parish.  As always, I’m also thankful for our U.S. Attorney who is an excellent partner when it comes to fighting crime.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with substantial assistance from the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Thornhill.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Katherine S. Dyson, age 65, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, to 42 months in federal prison following her wire fraud conviction.  The Court further sentenced Dyson to 2 years of supervised release following her term of imprisonment and ordered her to pay a total of $1,232,075 in restitution to the victims.  In imposing sentence, the Court recognized the negative impact of the defendant’s conduct on the victims and remarked that she had embezzled a staggering amount of money.

According to admissions made as part of her guilty plea, Dyson was employed by Mattress Direct as the Office Manager of corporate headquarters in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  As Office Manager, she had administrative access to the company’s financial software.  Between June of 2012 and December of 2018, she fraudulently diverted over $1.2 million for her own personal use and benefit through approximately 364 checking transactions.  As part of her wire fraud scheme, Dyson prepared and printed company checks in QuickBooks made payable to herself and another individual, in amounts ranging between $1,500 and $4,000.  She would then forge the company Treasurer’s signature and deposit the checks into a bank account that she controlled with another individual.  After depositing the checks, Dyson would gain control over the funds and spend them on various personal expenses, items and recreational activities.  

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This type of crime has detrimental effects on unsuspecting businesses, business owners, and their honest, hard-working employees.  Those who steal from their employers and violate their trust will be pursued aggressively.  This result sends the signal that our office will use every resource available to investigate and prosecute those who commit these types of crime.  I want to commend our prosecutor and the FBI for their diligent work in obtaining this conviction and sentence.”

“Katherine S. Dyson’s greed depleted her employer, Mattress Direct, of approximately $1.2 million for personal gain.  The FBI takes a proactive approach to identify perpetrators involved in these crimes and will continue to investigate them to the fullest extent of the law,” stated Bryan Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge.  “I commend the hard work and dedication put forth by the investigative team and prosecutor to bring this case to justice.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Chris Dippel, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief. 

United States Attorney Brandon J.  Fremin announced that U.S. District Court Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Henry Babin, age 30, of Gonzales, Louisiana, to serve 60 months in federal prison following his conviction for possessing child pornography.   Babin will also be required to serve five years of supervised release, register as a convicted sex offender upon his release from prison, and pay a total of $18,000 in restitution to the victims who were identified as children photographed in the images.

According to admissions made during his plea, on January 26, 2018, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force agents executed a search warrant for Babin’s property.  During the execution of the warrant, Babin emerged from a detached shed that had been converted into a private residence, in which he solely resided. 

Electronic devices were discovered and a preview of these devices on scene revealed numerous images and videos of child pornography.  A subsequent forensic examination of   Babin’s computer and cell phone revealed at least 600 images of child pornography, including images and videos of prepubescent minors, including infants, engaged in various sex acts.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “The possession of child pornography perpetuates the market for such despicable material and exploits our most vulnerable citizens, our children.  This conviction and sentence contributes to the safety and security of children not only in our community, but around the world.  Our office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue individuals whose actions harm, demean, or exploit our precious youth.  I commend the work of the prosecutor and agents involved in this important matter, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Cyber Crime Unit.”

"The protection of our children is one of the most sacred responsibilities entrusted to the FBI.  The FBI takes a proactive approach to identify unknown individuals involved in the sexual exploitation of children and the production of child pornography.  We remain vigilant and continue our active role to ensure children are protected.  We reaffirm our commitment to removing sexual predators from children’s lives through the justice system,” stated Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran.

“I am proud of my team for their work to investigate and arrest child predators producing, distributing, and viewing sexual abuse images and videos of children,” said Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry.  “And I am thankful our federal partners work closely with us to hold accountable those despicable people who violate the innocence of children.”

This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse.  Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood combines federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.  For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with critical assistance from the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office-Cyber Crime Unit and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Demetrius Sumner. 

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that Cristian Constantin, age 20, and Mihaela Stancu, age 25, both of Romania, pled guilty before U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick.  Constantin pled guilty to illegal possession of device making equipment and possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices.  M. Stancu pled guilty to possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices.  Earlier, on October 30, 2019, Petre Stancu and Antonio Serdaru pled guilty to possession of fifteen or more counterfeit access devices.  As a result of their guilty pleas, these defendants face significant terms of imprisonment, fines, and a period of supervised release

On March 9, 2019, a bank fraud investigator with Capital One Bank began following the progress of a group of Romanians driving about Shreveport, Louisiana, using fraudulent credit cards to withdraw sums of cash from various Capital One Bank ATMs.  The investigator then followed their progress from Shreveport to Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where the group continued to use those fraudulent cards to withdraw cash at Bank One locations in Baton Rouge.

Upon receiving this information from the investigator, Secret Service immediately passed it on to state and local law enforcement agencies, urging those agencies to rush personnel to those ATM locations to find and apprehend those suspects.

The investigator supplied information surrounding the vehicle makes, license plate numbers, and photographs of individuals in this group.  Those photographs included one of a white Honda Accord, a black Mercedes, and a GMC Terrain.  The investigator shared video stills depicting P. Stancu, Serdaru, and Constantin making fraudulent withdrawals at various Capitol One Bank ATM locations, as well as M. Stancu, marking those cards used by her brother, P. Stancu, to make those fraudulent withdrawals.

Secret Service received information of fraudulent activity occurring at the Bank One ATM at or near 6581 Siegen Lane/Industriplex.  A deputy rushed to that location and found Constantin and a pregnant juvenile in a GMC Terrain.  Law enforcement agents found over one hundred counterfeit credit cards, an encoder device, false identification documents for Constantin, and approximately $5,200. 

Constantin later confessed that he used the credit cards to make fraudulent withdrawals from various Bank One ATM locations.

On March 11, 2019, Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies found and stopped the black Mercedes, driven by P. Stancu, and occupied by his sister, M. Stancu, Serdaru, and a juvenile in Walker, Louisiana.   During this encounter, the juvenile female falsely claimed to be pregnant and requested deputies to allow her to go to the restroom.  After deputies told the juvenile female to wait for an ambulance, she tried to hide a boost bag she was carrying beneath the Mercedes.

Deputies seized the bag and found it contained approximately $3,860 and 191 counterfeit cards.  These cards contained re-encoded account numbers of customers who did their banking with Capital One and Regions Bank.  During their search of the Mercedes, authorities found $931, four gift cards with re-encoded account numbers (counterfeit cards), and a cellular phone.

P. Stancu, M. Stancu and Serdaru admitted to authorities that they used those counterfeit cards to make fraudulent withdrawals from various ATM machines.  Additionally, P. Stancu and Serdaru led authorities to the Honda Accord they left in a parking lot of the Home Depot in Denham Springs, Louisiana.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Access device fraud is a serious crime that can put citizens in great financial distress.  This office will always take these crimes seriously and work with all of our partners to bring offenders to justice.  I want to commend our prosecutor, the Secret Service, the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, and the investigators from Capital One Bank, whose quick action resulted in the arrest and conviction of these fraudsters.”

Tara McLeese, Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service in Baton Rouge, praised the quick response of local law enforcement.  McLeese said, “Our partners in state and local law enforcement are critical to suppressing fraudulent financial activities.  Through the Secret Service led Southwest Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force, there are robust protocols and procedures in place to identify and capture individuals who choose to defraud the public.”

Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard stated, “This case shows that agencies working together and sharing information can lead to great success.  This type of crime heavily impacts these victims - not only taking their money, but targeting their way of living.  When we can work together to take down a group of cowards attacking our hard-working citizens, it is a success in law enforcement.”

This matter is being investigated by the United States Secret Service, with critical assistance from the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office and East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert W. Piedrahita.  

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced the sentencing of James C. Hull, age 41, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, as part of Operation Hidden Fee, an extensive federal, state, and local investigation by the Middle District Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) aimed at a drug trafficking network based and operating in Baton Rouge.   

On December 12, 2019, U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Hull to 125 months in federal prison following his conviction of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and heroin, distribution of methamphetamine, and unlawful use of a communications facility.  The Court further sentenced Hull to 5 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.  

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, from March 2017 and continuing to June 2017, Hull directed Cody Stafford, Dustin Henderson, William and Frank Lipscomb to store and distribute heroin, crack cocaine, and methamphetamine in their residences to distribute to customers Hull sent to those locations.  Brian Hernandez, another associate, helped Hull distribute amounts of heroin and methamphetamine to Hernandez’s set of customers, and then paid Hull the cash owed for the drugs Hull supplied to him on credit.  Agents learned that Henry Hayes and Byron Lawson supplied Hull with multi-ounce quantities of heroin and methamphetamine for distribution to others.  During the execution of warrants in connection with this investigation, law-enforcement agents seized firearms from the residence of Cody Stafford and Dustin Henderson. 

On June 20, 2019, U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Henry Hayes to serve 120 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine.  On August 22, 2019, Judge Dick sentenced Frank Lipscomb to serve 57 months in prison after he pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine, and unlawful use of a communications facility. 

On October 1, 2019, U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced William Lipscomb to serve 63 months in prison after he pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, crack cocaine, and heroin and unlawful use of a communications facility.  On October 4, 2019, Judge Jackson sentenced Cody Stafford to serve 42 months in prison after he pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine.  On October 21, 2019, Judge Jackson sentenced Dustin Henderson to serve 60 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and crack and possession of an unregistered short-barreled rifle and unregistered silencers.  

Byron Lawson and Brian Hernandez pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, and crack cocaine.  Sentencing for Hernandez is set for January 2, 2020 and for Lawson on January 16, 2020.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “The numerous convictions and significant sentences handed down in this case are a testament to the efforts of our prosecutors and our federal, state and local partners who consistently work with us to keep heroin, meth, and crack cocaine out of our communities.  The investigation and prosecution of drug trafficking organizations requires intensive work by all involved, and this result shows that we will use all of the tools at our disposal to keep our streets free from these poisons.”

“Methamphetamine, heroin and crack cocaine are destructive poisons that can cause terrible harm to the quality of life in any community,” said Brad L. Byerley, Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s New Orleans Field Division.   “Side by side with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners, DEA is holding drug dealers accountable.  We are seizing their profits, shutting down their distribution networks, and putting dealers where they belong- behind bars.   This investigation demonstrates our unending resolve to remove drug dealers from the communities here in the greater Baton Rouge area and across the country.  These lengthy sentences will put these criminals out of commission for a long time.”

“The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is committed to continuing to work to get dangerous drugs and weapons off our community streets,” Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said.  “I’m grateful for the partnership we have with the U.S. Attorney and his dedication to prosecuting these cases on the federal level for stronger sentencing.”

The investigation is yet another effort by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program, which was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers.  Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations and related criminal enterprises.  The OCDETF Program operates nationwide and combines the resources and unique expertise of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. 

These ongoing investigations were led by the Drug Enforcement Administration with invaluable assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF), the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Baton Rouge City Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police.  Other agencies also assisted in apprehending the defendants, including the U.S. Marshal’s Service, and the Sheriffs’ Offices in Ascension, Iberville, and West Baton Rouge Parishes. 

These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Piedrahita and Lyman E. Thornton III, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Cal Leipold.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that James Edwards Gamble, age 42, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been sentenced to 63 months in prison following his conviction of possessing firearms by a convicted felon.  The Court further sentenced Gamble to 3 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearms involved be forfeited.

In a previous hearing before U.S. District Court Judge John deGravelles, Gamble pled guilty to possessing a Jimenez Arms, JA Nine, 9mm pistol, an Armscorp M14 7.62 caliber semiautomatic rifle, and a Mossberg 12 gauge shotgun.  Gamble had previously been convicted of possession of cocaine in 1999 and cruelty to juveniles in 2015 in East Baton Rouge Parish.

On July 14, 2018, Baton Rouge City Police responded to a burglary at a cell phone shop on North Foster Drive.  An officer observed two men enter the shop.  As the two men left the shop in a stolen pickup truck, the officer attempted a traffic stop.  The driver fled and, after a short chase, wrecked the truck.  Both men then fled on foot.  A canine officer and his dog quickly apprehended the driver of the pickup truck and Gamble.  The officers found the loaded 9mm pistol, next to Gamble after a short struggle.

Later, Gamble’s residence was searched pursuant to a warrant.  Officers found and recovered two additional firearms.  

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This case highlights our efforts to work with our local law enforcement partners.  As a result of the excellent work of the Baton Rouge Police, we have removed a violent offender from this community.  I commend our prosecutor, and our federal and local partners for their outstanding work in obtaining this conviction and significant sentence.”

“The conviction of James Edwards Gamble reinforces the message that no one is above the law,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran.  “Justice has been served to an individual who has terrorized communities with senseless firearm violence and burglary.  We thank our local and federal partners for their efforts and cooperation throughout this investigation.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Baton Rouge City Police Department and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lyman E. Thornton III.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that a lengthy federal investigation into an extensive drug trafficking network based in Plaquemine, Louisiana, has resulted in the return of a grand jury indictment charging five (5) individuals with narcotics and firearms-related offenses.  As discussed in more detail below, the defendants are charged with conspiring to distribute and to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base and some of the defendants are charged with firearm-related offenses. 

The charged defendants are listed below, and each faces significant terms of imprisonment, fines, and the forfeiture of proceeds from the illegal activity:

• Larry Hughes, age 60, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
• Eric J. Curtis, age 43, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base.
• Alexander J. Brock, Jr., age 54, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base.
• Malcolm J. Jackson, age 47, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and felon in possession of a firearm.
• Shaheed Thompson, age 33, of Plaquemine, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “This indictment is another example of how coordinated efforts between federal and local law enforcement can remove organized drug traffickers from our streets and protect our communities from their poisonous products.  I want to thank our prosecutor, the FBI Capitol Area Gang Task Force, the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, along with ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshal’s Service, and East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office for their tremendous work on this case.”

FBI New Orleans Division Special Agent in Charge Bryan A. Vorndran stated, “Whether in a major city, or a small town like Plaquemine, the FBI is focused on public safety and the welfare of our communities.  As a result of this joint investigation between the FBI Baton Rouge Capital Area Gang Task Force, Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshal’s Service, and East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, a significant amount of illegal narcotics and weapons are off the streets.  The FBI New Orleans Field Office will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate drug and gang activity, as well as violent crime affecting our Louisiana neighborhoods.”

Iberville Parish Sheriff Brett Stassi stated, “I’m very proud of our partnership with U.S. Attorney Fremin.  When he took office he made a commitment to join me in protecting the people of Iberville Parish.  This indictment is another great step in fulfilling that promise.  We look forward to future activities between our offices.”

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Baton Rouge Capitol Area Gang Task Force and the Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jamie A. Flowers, Jr.

The investigation that led to this indictment is another effort by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program that was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers.  Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations and related criminal enterprises.  The OCDETF Program operates nationwide and combines the resources and unique expertise of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. 

NOTE: 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 Brandon J. Fremin announced that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Demarcus Davis, age 26, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 75 months in federal prison following his conviction of possessing a firearm by a convicted felon.   The Court further sentenced Davis to 3 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearm involved be forfeited.

According to admissions made as part of the guilty plea, on August 18, 2018, the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office was conducting a sobriety checkpoint on Highway 42.  Davis’ vehicle was swerving as it entered the screening line, almost striking a metal guard rail, and Davis was seen reaching toward the floorboard upon entering the screening line.

Davis’ speech was rambling, his hands were shaking, and his travel plans did not make sense.   Detectives observed a pineapple Fanta soft drink in the console that appeared to contain a controlled substance.   Davis did not have a driver's license and admitted to being on probation for possession of codeine syrup.

After Davis provided verbal consent to search the vehicle, deputies noticed a plastic panel on the driver-side, lower-middle console that appeared to be broken or loose.  Upon removing the plastic piece, a loaded FN, Model Five-Seven, 5.7mm handgun was located.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Davis was convicted in East Baton Rouge Parish in March 2017 of possession of codeine and November 2014 of simple robbery.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This conviction and sentence is the result of keen law enforcement and prosecution to ensure our district is free from convicted felons who illegally possess firearms.  I want to thank our prosecutor, the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the ATF for their excellent work in removing this defendant from the streets of Livingston Parish.”

Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard stated, “I am proud of those at the LPSO and those in our LPSO Narcotics Division.   Experience helped to break this case.  The working relationship we have with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office helped to make a solid case for prosecution.’

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with substantial assistance from the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney William Morris.   

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Jimmy Lindsey, age 22, of Springfield, Louisiana, to 132 months in federal prison following his convictions of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, marijuana, and oxycodone, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  The Court further sentenced Lindsey to 4 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearm involved be forfeited.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Lindsey was on probation for felony narcotics distribution charges in Livingston Parish when agents with the Louisiana Probation and Parole, along with Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office narcotics detectives, attempted to conduct a compliance check at his residence on July 5, 2018.  Agents were aware that Lindsey would be driving a black BMW.  While patrolling the area near Lindsey’s residence, detectives encountered a black BMW leaving the area.  Detectives initiated a traffic stop after observing the driver of the BMW fail to utilize turn signals on two separate occasions.

As detectives approached the vehicle, they recognized the driver to be Lindsey.  They also smelled a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle.  As Lindsey was secured, the deputies found a loaded Smith and Wesson .380 pistol, in his back right pants pocket. The detectives also located methamphetamine and oxycodone pills in his right pants pocket, as well as two zip-lock bags of marijuana in the trunk of the vehicle.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Lindsey pled no contest to possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of oxycodone, possession of buprenorphine, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana in February 2017 in Livingston Parish. 

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This conviction and sentence is the result of diligent state and local law enforcement working with federal authorities to ensure our streets are safe.  The message is clear – we will not tolerate repeat offenders who disregard conditions of felony probation and continue to engage in criminal behavior.  I want to thank our prosecutor, the ATF, the Louisiana Probation and Parole Office, and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office for their excellent work on this case.”

Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard stated, “Our goal is to protect our citizens.  I am proud of the LPSO Narcotics Division.  I appreciate their dedication to Livingston Parish and the working relationship we have with the U.S. Attorney.”

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with critical assistance from the Louisiana Probation and Parole Office and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eli J. Abad.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today the recent convictions of five additional defendants charged with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, and conspiracy to commit access device fraud.  The charges stem from a lengthy federal, state, and local investigation that has spanned numerous jurisdictions across several states and has resulted in convictions against ten (10) individuals for participating in a fraudulent scheme targeting victims in the Middle District of Louisiana. 

From August 2016 through February 2017, the defendants traveled through numerous states, including Louisiana, breaking into unattended vehicles, stealing the victims’ licenses, checkbooks, and credit and debit cards, and then using the stolen items to conduct fraudulent financial transactions at the victims’ banks. 

• Michael D. Gibbs, age 27, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud;

• Brandon J. Gassett, age 29, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud;

• Raymond B. Mathews, age 33, of Ft. Lauderdale, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud;
• Geoffrey D. Green, age 36, Lauderhill, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud; and
• Frank Jackson, age 25, of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud.

 

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “The convictions of ten interstate criminals in this case demonstrate that law enforcement, working together, will leave no stone unturned to bring all those involved in criminal activity to justice.  This type of organized crime creates undue hardships for the unsuspecting victims who should feel confident that we remain committed to bringing these types of offenders to justice.  I want to congratulate all of our federal, state, and local partners around the country for their tireless efforts.”

Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Field Office Special Agent in Charge stated, “The convictions imposed on these five defendants bring closure to their two-year crime spree which spanned across several U.S. states; stealing the identities of a number of consumers and leaving them with significant financial hardships.  The collaboration demonstrated in this case by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office, Florida Highway Patrol, U.S. Attorney's Office, and East Baton Rouge District Attorney's Office, as well as all of our other federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, in Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida, North Carolina, and Wyoming was second to none.”

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Baton Rouge Police Department, the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, Walker Police Department, Lafayette Police Department, Covington Police Department, Oxford (Mississippi) Police Department, Florida Highway Patrol and Asheville (North Carolina) Police Department.  The investigation has received substantial assistance from the 19th JDC District Attorney’s Office in East Baton Rouge, Louisiana, the Johnson County, Wyoming Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Third Judicial Circuit of Florida State Attorney’s Office.  This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Alan Stevens and Chris Dippel, who both serve as Deputy Criminal Chiefs, and former AUSA Cal Leipold.   

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that Saleem Yousef Dabit, age 73, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was indicted on November 7, 2019, by a federal grand jury charging him with use of fire to commit a felony, use of fire to maliciously damage property, and wire fraud.

According to the indictment, Dabit owned and operated Sam's Men's Fashions, a retail men's clothing store located at 5154 Plank Road, Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  On January 1, 2019, Dabit is alleged to have set fire to Sam's Men's Fashions with gasoline from at least 15 containers, which resulted in a massive fuel-air explosion, with the intent to damage and destroy the property and collect on his commercial property and business interruption insurance.  On January 2, 2019, Dabit allegedly made an insurance claim for the fire loss and damage to his business for an estimated loss of over $500,000. 

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Arson is not only an extremely dangerous crime, but it is also a serious economic crime, as insurance fraud causes an increase in insurance costs to all other citizens.  This indictment demonstrates our commitment to bring arsonists to justice, and protect life and property of the community.   I want to thank our prosecutor, the ATF, and the Baton Rouge Fire Department for their excellent work on this case.

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with substantial assistance from the Baton Rouge Fire Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brian Frazier.     

NOTE: 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. 

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) has agreed to resolve allegations that it submitted false and inflated Medicaid claims for long-term nursing home and hospice care.  Under the settlement agreement, the state agency has agreed to pay $13,422,550.96. 

“Today’s settlement demonstrates our continuing vigilance to protect Federal healthcare programs, including Medicaid, from false claims,” said Assistant Attorney General Joseph H. Hunt for the Department of Justice’s Civil Division.  “Anyone seeking to profit at the expense of Federal taxpayers, including state agencies, will face serious consequences.”

“This office will remain vigilant in its efforts to ensure the integrity of the Medicaid program by continuing to pursue those who commit improprieties against the program – whether they be providers or beneficiaries, or those more central to the administration of the program,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin for the Middle District of Louisiana.  “The people of Louisiana deserve it.  I am grateful to the dedicated AUSAs and staff in our Civil Division and to the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services for their hard work and dedication to this very important matter.”

Medicaid is a joint Federal and State program providing financial assistance to individuals with low incomes to enable them to receive medical care.  The United States Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) makes quarterly grant awards to each participating State covering an amount, commonly known as the Federal share, of the State’s expenditures for healthcare services covered by the State’s Medicaid plan.  The Federal share is determined by a percentage rate in effect during the quarter in which the State paid the claims from health care providers.  That rate is subject to change from quarter to quarter.  Nursing homes and hospices typically submitted claims to Louisiana on the tenth day of the month following the month during which the services were actually provided.  Louisiana then paid these claims, sought Federal reimbursement for those expenditures, and received Federal reimbursement based on the rate in effect at that time.

The United States alleged that the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) knew that the rates determining the Federal share of Louisiana’s Medicaid payments were set to decrease following the months of December 2010, March 2011, June 2011, and September 2013.  To receive the higher Federal share percentage rates in effect during these months, LDH fraudulently caused its healthcare contractor, Molina Medical Solutions, to prepare, submit, and pay claims for nursing home and hospice services in these months, before the providers had submitted to Louisiana any claims for them.  Louisiana then claimed Federal reimbursement for those premature payments.  As a result, the LDH received a Federal share based upon the higher percentage rate in effect in those months, rather than the lower percentage rate in effect the following months when the providers actually submitted claims to Louisiana. 

This settlement was the result of an investigation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Civil Division of the Department of Justice, and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. 

The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. 

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

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

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

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Starting with “Project Exile” in the 1990s and continuing today with “Project Safe Neighborhoods,” this district has benefitted from outstanding federal and state law enforcement coordination in the prosecution of gun crimes. We are excited that the Department of Justice is supplementing efforts to keep our streets safe from violent gun offenders, and we look forward to using additional tools in the fight to prevent gun violence.”

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

Project Guardian’s implementation is based on five principles:

1. Coordinated Prosecution. Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will coordinate with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and prosecutors to consider potential federal prosecution for new cases involving a defendant who: a) was arrested in possession of a firearm; b) is believed to have used a firearm in committing a crime of violence or drug trafficking crime prosecutable in federal court; or c) is suspected of actively committing violent crime(s) in the community on behalf of a criminal organization.
    
2. Enforcing the Background Check System. United States Attorneys, in consultation with the Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in their district, will create new, or review existing, guidelines for intake and prosecution of federal cases involving false statements (including lie-and-try, lie-and-buy, and straw purchasers) made during the acquisition or attempted acquisition of firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees.
    
   Particular emphasis is placed on individuals convicted of violent felonies or misdemeanor crimes of domestic violence, individuals subject to protective orders, and individuals who are fugitives where the underlying offense is a felony or misdemeanor crime of domestic violence; individuals suspected of involvement in criminal organizations or of providing firearms to criminal organizations; and individuals involved in repeat denials.
    
3. Improved Information Sharing. On a regular basis, and as often as practicable given current technical limitations, ATF will provide to state law enforcement fusion centers a report listing individuals for whom the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) has issued denials, including the basis for the denial, so that state and local law enforcement can take appropriate steps under their laws.
    
4. Coordinated Response to Mental Health Denials. Each United States Attorney will ensure that whenever there is federal case information regarding individuals who are prohibited from possessing a firearm under the mental health prohibition, such information continues to be entered timely and accurately into the United States Attorneys’ Offices’ case-management system for prompt submission to NICS. ATF should engage in additional outreach to state and local law enforcement on how to use this denial information to better assure public safety. 
    
   Additionally, United States Attorneys will consult with relevant district stakeholders to assess feasibility of adopting disruption of early engagement programs to address mental-health-prohibited individuals who attempt to acquire a firearm. United States Attorneys should consider, when appropriate, recommending court-ordered mental health treatment for any sentences issued to individuals prohibited based on mental health.

 

1. Crime Gun Intelligence Coordination. Federal, state, local, and tribal prosecutors and law enforcement will work together to ensure effective use of the ATF’s Crime Gun Intelligence Centers (CGICs), and all related resources, to maximize the use of modern intelligence tools and technology. These tools can greatly enhance the speed and effectiveness in identifying trigger-pullers and finding their guns, but the success depends in large part on state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners sharing ballistic evidence and firearm recovery data with the ATF.
    

Federal law enforcement represents only about 15% of all law enforcement resources nationwide. Therefore, partnerships with state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the communities they serve are critical to addressing gun crime. The Department recognizes that sharing information with our state, local, and tribal law enforcement partners at every level will enhance public safety, and provide a greater depth of resources available to address gun crime on a national level.  

For more information on Project Guardian, see the Attorney General’s memorandum at: https://www.justice.gov/ag/project-guardian-memo-2019/download.

 

 

 

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced Delvin Fountain, age 30, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 180 months in federal prison following his conviction of possessing a firearm by a convicted felon.  The Court further sentenced Fountain to 5 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearm involved be forfeited.

According to the factual basis in the record, a warrant was issued for Fountain’s arrest on January 24, 2019.  On February 28, 2019, deputies from the East Baton Rouge Sherriff’s Office received a tip that Fountain was seen driving a black Lincoln sedan in the area of West Garland and Highland in Baton Rouge.  While patrolling the area, deputies identified a vehicle matching the description provided by the tipster.  Deputies followed the Lincoln in an unmarked vehicle into an apartment complex on West Roosevelt Street.  Fountain exited the vehicle, leaving his door open, and walked towards the rear of the vehicle.

When other deputies arrived and parked their vehicles behind the Lincoln, Fountain attempted to flee on foot but was apprehended.  After apprehending Fountain, deputies examined Fountain’s vehicle and observed a black Smith & Wesson Shield .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol sitting in plain view on top of the driver’s seat.  Fountain admitted that the firearm found in the vehicle belonged to him.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Fountain was convicted in East Baton Rouge Parish in June 2010, of first degree robbery.    

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This conviction and sentence is a great example how federal and state law enforcement partners, working in concert with the community, can bring violent criminals to justice and make our streets safer. I want to thank my prosecutor, the ATF, and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s deputies for their decisive apprehension of this defendant.”

“The substantial sentence imposed today sends a strong message to criminals that they will be held accountable for their actions,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn.  “ATF is committed to collaborate with all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to remove violent criminals from our neighborhoods and communities.”  

“The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is proud of the partnership we have with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and appreciate their commitment to prosecute these cases on the federal level,” Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said.  “We look forward to continuing working together to combat the crime that plague our community.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with substantial assistance from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kashan Pathan.   

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that Arthur Lee Stewart, age 35, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute heroin.  As a result of his guilty plea, Stewart faces a significant term of imprisonment, a fine, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on December 3, 2018, East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a call at a convenience store on Elmer Avenue in Baton Rouge to investigate an allegation that an individual at the store was in possession of marijuana and a firearm.  As deputies pulled up to the store in their marked unit, they observed two males standing in front of the store who appeared to be smoking marijuana.  As one of the marked units was about to stop in front of the store, one of the two previously observed males, later identified as Stewart, attempted to flee on foot but was quickly apprehended by one of the deputies.  After being advised of his Miranda rights, Stewart stated that he had marijuana in his pocket.  During a search of Stewart, the deputy found a black digital scale, 5.81 grams of heroin wrapped in two separate clear packages, a prescription bottle with a partially torn label containing 15 pills of amphetamine salts, one clear package containing 1 gram of marijuana, and $210 in cash in his pant pockets.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Stewart was convicted of possession with intent to distribute marijuana in 2007 in East Baton Rouge Parish; conspiracy to introduce contraband into a state correctional institution in 2012 in East Baton Rouge Parish; and possession with intent to distribute codeine in 2012 in East Baton Rouge Parish.

U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin stated, “Distribution of heroin alone is a serious crime that endangers the citizens of Baton Rouge.  The addition of a firearm to the equation increases the likelihood that one or more people, to include innocent bystanders, may end up being seriously wounded or killed in the crossfire.  In this case, astute investigative work by East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office deputies led to a quick response to a dangerous situation that resulted in the apprehension of this defendant with no collateral consequence.  I applaud the efforts and professionalism of our prosecutor and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office.”

“The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the partnership we have with the U.S. Attorney and his dedication to prosecuting these cases on the federal level,” Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said.  “We will continue to dedicate our personnel and resources to initiatives that ensure the safety of our community.”

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with critical assistance from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul Pugliese.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that Donald “Duck” Daigle, age 62, of Plaquemine, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to fraudulently obtaining disability payments from the Social Security Administration.  As a result of his conviction, Daigle faces a significant term of imprisonment, a fine, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Daigle falsely claimed he was disabled and unable to work as a result of a 1998 automobile accident.  He also admitted that from June 2002 through October 2018, on numerous occasions he concealed and failed to disclose to the Social Security Administration that he built, opened and ran daily operations as a small business owner, Duck’s Quick Stop and Pizza, in Plaquemine, Louisiana until it closed in 2009. Thereafter, Daigle failed to disclose that he performed work as a commercial truck driver and as a forklift operator employed at a chemical plant.  He further admitted that, as a result of his fraudulent scheme, he knowingly and illegally collected $457,460 in payments to which he was neither entitled nor eligible. 

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Those who steal benefits from any federal program deserve the attention of federal investigators and will be aggressively prosecuted. This plea should serve as a clear warning to those who mistakenly believe their fraudulent conduct will continue indefinitely and undetected. I commend the efforts of our prosecutor and our partners at the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General for bringing this defendant to justice.”

“We are gratified by the guilty plea in this egregious case,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration.  “We will continue to uphold the integrity of Social Security’s disability programs by pursuing those who knowingly receive benefits they’re not eligible for.  I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its support in pursuing justice in this case and recovering funds for those who truly need them.”

This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Dallas Field Division of the Social Security Administration’s Office of Inspector General.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lyman E. Thornton III

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that Louisiana-based home health companies Health Care Options, Inc. and Health Care Options of Lafayette, Inc.; Texas-based Home Care Options Houston, Inc.; and Howard D. Austin, II, have agreed to settle a civil fraud complaint filed under the federal False Claims Act by paying $2.5 million to the United States.

The settlement resolves allegations that, between 2011 and 2018, the defendants defrauded the Medicare and Louisiana Medicaid programs by submitting false and fraudulent claims for payment for home health services without required face-to-face encounters between patients and physicians.

“The United States expects companies and individuals serving Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries, including people in need of home health care, to fully comply with all requirements of those programs,” said U.S. Attorney Fremin.  “This case highlights our commitment to aggressively pursue anyone trying to avoid their obligations to the Government and to health care patients.  I want to thank our Assistant U.S. Attorney and our partners at HHS-OIG and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their outstanding efforts in achieving this result.”

U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles has issued an order accepting the parties’ settlement agreement and has entered a consent judgment in favor of the United States.  The settlement resolves a lawsuit, United States ex rel. Melanie Berzas v. Health Care Options, Inc., et al., No. 14-199-JWD-RLB, filed under the whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States and to share in a portion of the Government’s recovery. 

This matter was investigated by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, with substantial assistance from the Louisiana Department of Justice Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.  The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Chase E. Zachary, a member of the Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) unit in the U.S. Attorney’s Office.  The ACE unit is responsible for filing civil lawsuits on behalf of the United States to recover government money lost to fraud or other misconduct and to impose civil penalties for violations of federal health, safety, and environmental laws.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that Michael Allen Worley, age 57, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to bank fraud and wire fraud.  As a result of his conviction, Worley faces a significant term of imprisonment, a fine, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Worley executed schemes to defraud both banks and private equity firms by submitting multiple false and fraudulent loan applications on behalf of himself and of businesses he owned or operated.  Between 2014 and 2018, Worley obtained more than $18 million in new loans from federally-insured banks in Baton Rouge and around the country through materially false and fraudulent statements and representations.  Through a similar scheme, Worley obtained at least an additional $11 million from private equity firms in Louisiana and Texas, also through materially false and fraudulent statements and representations.  During the course of both his bank and wire fraud schemes, Worley inflated his assets, understated and omitted his liabilities, misrepresented his income, and often misrepresented other things including the intended use(s) of millions in loan proceeds.  In some instances, Worley and the businesses he owned, operated, or controlled, defaulted on the loans, causing the financial institutions and private equity funds to suffer financial losses. Worley filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in January of 2018.       

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “This investigation and conviction demonstrates that those who seek to deceive and defraud banks and other lenders for their own personal benefit will be held accountable.  Mr. Worley executed schemes to fraudulently induce banks and private lenders into giving him millions of dollars, and used unwitting associates of his to assist him.  Individuals like Mr. Worley who obtain loans through fraudulent means can expect to be prosecuted, and victims of such schemes should know we will do everything within our power to make these lenders whole. I would like to recognize the efforts of our prosecutor and the FBI for their exemplary work on such an important matter.”

Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge stated, “Today’s guilty plea holds Michael Worley accountable for orchestrating a multi-year scheme to defraud private lenders and federally insured financial institutions of tens of millions of dollars.  The FBI New Orleans Field Office is dedicated to investigating crimes of greed and deceit and bringing to justice those, such as Worley, who exploit the finances of their victims.”

This matter is being investigated by the Baton Rouge Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter J. Smyczek.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Bruce Aaron Boulton, age 49, of Woodville, Mississippi, to 51 months in federal prison following his conviction for mail fraud and wire fraud.  The Court further sentenced Boulton to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and ordered him to pay restitution in the amount of $584,142.70.

According to admissions made during his guilty plea, Boulton was employed by Kleinpeter Farms Dairy, LLC, as a safety and fleet manager from 2013 to 2015.  During the course of his employment with Kleinpeter, Boulton created false and fictitious companies for the purpose of defrauding Kleinpeter.  He then created fraudulent invoices from these companies which he used to bill Kleinpeter, and which reflected repairs on Kleinpeter vehicles that were not actually performed.  This caused Kleinpeter to issue checks to Boulton’s fictitious companies which were then deposited into a bank account he controlled.  This scheme caused Kleinpeter to pay him approximately $305,373 to which he was not entitled. 

Boulton then continued his scheme with Angelle Concrete Group, LLC (“Angelle”), one of the largest producers of ready-mix concrete in the greater Baton Rouge area.  At Angelle, Boulton was employed as an Assistant Fleet Manager from June of 2015 until January of 2018.  While at Angelle, Boulton again created fictitious companies for the purpose of defrauding Angelle.  As part of his scheme, Boulton created and submitted fraudulent invoices and monthly expense reports.  These fraudulent billings caused Angelle to pay Boulton for work his fictitious companies never actually performed on Angelle’s vehicles and equipment.  Boulton’s scheme caused Angelle and its insurance company to suffer a loss of $278,769.56.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “My office will continue to aggressively pursue those who use their positions of trust to steal from their employers.  Such betrayal often risks the financial livelihoods of their co-workers and may threaten the financial integrity of their employers.  I am proud of our prosecutors and the special agents from the United States Secret Service who worked on this very important matter.” 

Tara McLeese, Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service in Baton Rouge praised the efforts of investigators and the talented prosecutors from the United States Attorney’s Office for bringing Boulton to justice.  McLeese said, “Financial crimes are not victimless crimes and have real impact on our community.  Today’s sentencing reflects the aggressive efforts of the United States Secret Service and our partners, to combat financial based crimes in the Middle District of Louisiana.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and the United States Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter J. Smyczek. 

BATON ROUGE, LA - U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Keaton L. Copeland, age 34, of Miami, Florida, to 120 months in federal prison following his conviction for wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud.  The Court further sentenced Copeland to three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered him to pay $98,987.67 in restitution.

After a 6-day trial before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson, the jury unanimously convicted Mr. Copeland on all six counts.  As the evidence at trial demonstrated, Copeland owned and controlled a health insurance brokerage company called Express ACA in Miami, Florida.  Express ACA’s purported purpose was to assist individuals with enrolling in health insurance policies that met the requirements of the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (“Affordable Care Act”).  From approximately January 2014 until May 2015, Express ACA employees submitted thousands of health insurance applications on behalf of individuals, many of whom did not need health insurance and had no knowledge that these applications had been submitted.  Copeland instructed his employees to enter false information on these applications including false income amounts, fake addresses, and incorrect phone numbers.  The vast majority of these health insurance policies were fully subsidized by the federal government.

In exchange for causing these fraudulent policies, Copeland expected to receive commission fees from insurance companies.  Many of the insurance companies, including Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, immediately discovered the fraud and prevented further attempts at Copeland’s continued efforts to defraud other insurance companies.

U.S. Attorney Fremin said, “This conviction and sentence once again demonstrates that those who take advantage of our healthcare systems to unjustly enrich themselves will be brought to justice. Creating false financial records for thousands of unknowing victims is in direct violation of our federal criminal law and such behavior should be punished accordingly. I want to congratulate our prosecutors, the FBI, the Department of Health and Human Services  Office of Inspector General, and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana, Anthem, and Humana for their hard work investigating this complex criminal scheme.”

“The sentence imposed today is an affirmation of our commitment to protect the integrity of our nation’s health insurance programs from those who seek to illegally profit through their fraudulent actions,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Miranda Bennett of the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General’s (OIG) Dallas Regional Office.  “This office will continue to work closely with our Federal and State law enforcement partners, as well as our private stakeholders, to bring to justice those who deliberately manipulate health insurance systems or the personally identifiable information of individuals, to fraudulently obtain money from government and privately funded health care programs to which they are not entitled.”

Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Field Office Special Agent in Charge stated, “I commend the efforts of the men and women of the FBI and want to thank our partners at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of the Inspector General, the United States Attorney's Office, as well as fraud investigators at Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana for their outstanding work throughout this investigation and subsequent trial.  This case should serve as yet another reminder to all that the FBI and our partners remain committed to investigating fraud in all facets of our health care system."

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with substantial assistance provided by Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana, Financial Investigations Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brad Casey and Patricia Jones. 

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced the conviction of Nathaniel W. Turner, a 33-year-old resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana.  Turner was indicted by a federal grand jury on August 29, 2019, and charged with possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of firearms by a convicted felon.

After a three day trial before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson, the jury unanimously convicted Turner of all three charges.  As the evidence at trial demonstrated, on May 22, 2019, deputies with the U.S. Marshal’s Service executed a warrant for the arrest of Turner.  Upon arrival, deputies observed security cameras on the perimeter of the apartment occupied by Turner.  After knocking on Turner’s door, the deputies found him asleep on the couch with a .9mm caliber pistol and a Mossberg International 715T .22 caliber AR-15 style rifle, a quantity of heroin, a digital scale, and other drug paraphernalia within immediate reach.  He was arrested without incident.  As a result of this conviction, Turner faces a maximum sentence of not less than five years and up to life in federal prison, significant fines, restitution, and supervised release.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Turner was convicted of  possession of MDMA on August 4, 2006, second degree battery on January 14, 2011, and indecent behavior with a juvenile on August 29, 2017, all in East Baton Rouge Parish.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This office will not tolerate violent felons like Nathaniel Turner who insist on dealing drugs and illegally possessing firearms. This investigation and conviction is just another excellent example of the collaboration among our prosecutors and the federal and local law enforcement agencies who worked together to bring this defendant to justice.  We will not relent in our commitment to bring violent offenders to justice and make our communities safer.” 

Supervisory Deputy U.S. Marshal Joshua Reich stated, “Due to the cooperation of our local and federal partners, we were able to locate and arrest Nathaniel Turner and recover all weapons and evidence that eventually lead to a successful  federal prosecution in the Middle District of Louisiana.  If not for the help and support of our local and federal partners and the leadership of the Middle Louisiana Fugitive Task Force, this would not have been possible.”

“This individual disregarded both the law and the safety of others,” stated ATF Baton Rouge Field Office Resident Agent in Charge Mary Downie.  “ATF is committed to collaborate with all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners so criminals like this will be held accountable for their actions.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the U.S. Marshal’s Service and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, Louisiana State Police Bureau of Identification, and the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Robert W. Piedrahita and Kashan Pathan.   

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced John Paul Funes, age 49, of Baton Rouge, to 33 months in federal prison following his conviction for wire fraud and money laundering.  The Court further sentenced Funes to two years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.  As the Court noted at the sentencing hearing, the defendant has already forfeited $796,309, and the Court ordered the defendant to pay an additional $50,000 as a fine.

According to admissions made during his plea, Funes executed a scheme to defraud Our Lady of the Lake Foundation (the “Foundation”), a non-profit organization that supports the Our Lady of the Lake Regional Medical Center, and caused a loss of more than $550,000.  During today’s sentencing hearing, the Court determined that the defendant’s fraudulent scheme caused a specific loss of $796,309.  Funes prepared, signed, and submitted payment vouchers that caused the Foundation's accounting personnel to issue checks for the payees, amounts, and purposes reflected on the vouchers.  Because of his position at the Foundation, Funes could approve his own vouchers, which enabled him to submit dozens of false and fraudulent vouchers that misrepresented the purpose of the checks.  In furtherance of the scheme, for example, Funes submitted numerous fraudulent vouchers in which he represented that Foundation funds were necessary to pay a charter flight company to make time-sensitive “outbound patient transports” from Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Hospital, when in fact Funes was repeatedly using the flight company's services for his own personal benefit, unbeknownst to the Foundation.  On numerous occasions, after fraudulently causing the Foundation to issue payments to other individuals, Funes would direct those individuals to funnel the majority of the funds back to him, by check or money order, thereby conducting financial transactions designed in part to conceal proceeds of the fraudulent scheme.  In August of 2018, when the Foundation’s finance department began an internal audit of the expenses described above, Funes created numerous false documents in an effort to conceal the scheme.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “This defendant blatantly violated the trust bestowed upon him by the Our Lady of the Lake Foundation and people they serve by stealing valuable resources from those who needed it most.  This conviction and sentence should serve as a warning to those who would betray such trust.  We are pleased that justice has prevailed, and I am grateful to the Foundation for the full cooperation and valuable assistance it has provided throughout this investigation.  I am extremely proud of our prosecutor and the agents from the Secret Service, the FBI, and the IRS-Criminal Investigation Division for quickly getting to the bottom of this scheme and bringing the defendant to justice.”

Tara McLeese, Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service in Baton Rouge said “Today’s sentencing is the result of an outstanding collaborative effort between Federal Prosecutors and Federal investigative agencies based in the Baton Rouge area.”

Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge stated, “John Paul Funes betrayed Our Lady of the Lake Foundation, its donors, and the Baton Rouge community by embezzling funds that were intended to benefit the area's sick and injured children. The FBI New Orleans Field Office, along with the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division and U.S. Secret Service, will continue to vigorously investigate and hold those accountable who illegally profit at the expense of our community's institutions.”

“Funes abused his CEO position while engaging in a series of fraudulent transactions devised to siphon funds from a worthwhile public charity.  IRS Criminal Investigation is proud to have assisted our partners in unraveling the criminal activity and fraudulent financial transactions undertaken by Funes for his personal benefit,” said Thomas J. Holloman III, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation Atlanta Field Office.  “Pooling the skills of each agency makes a formidable team as we investigate allegations of wrong-doing.  Today's sentencing demonstrates our collective efforts to enforce the law and ensure public trust.”

This investigation is being handled by the United States Secret Service, along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division.  This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alan Stevens, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief. 

BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA – Residents of Louisiana have an opportunity to safely and anonymously rid their homes of unused, unwanted, unneeded, or expired prescription medications, announced United States Attorney Brandon Fremin of the Middle District of Louisiana.

The National Prescription Take Back Day is Saturday, October 26, 2019, at four locations within the Middle District of Louisiana and almost 60 locations across Louisiana.  During this one-day event, federal and local law enforcement will, once again, partner together to increase awareness of prescription drug abuse and provide an opportunity to reduce the availability of prescription pain medications in local homes.

U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin stated: “This program seeks to reduce the massive amount of prescription drugs available at the homes throughout our district.  The proper disposal of these drugs greatly benefits all citizens in our combined efforts to keep our communities safe.  Reducing this available supply is an important step in our fight against opioid abuse.”

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

Prescription Drug Take Back days have historically been very successful.  For example, in April 2019, the 17th National Prescription Drug Take-Back Day, which involved almost 5,000 national, tribal, state, and local law enforcement partners, resulted in the collection of 937,443 pounds (468 tons) of prescription drugs at more than 6,200 collection sites.  The program has resulted in the collection of almost 12 million pounds (more than 5,900 tons) since it began 19 years ago. 

The Prescription Drug Take Back is part of a nationwide effort sponsored by the DEA. Containers where unwanted and expired prescription medications may be safely disposed will be at locations across the Baton Rouge Metropolitan area on Saturday, October 26th from 10 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.  New this year, DEA will be accepting vaping devices and cartridges at the drop-off sites.  DEA is unable to accept devices containing lithium ion batteries. (DEA cannot accept liquids, needles or sharps). The service is free and anonymous, with no questions asked.

A complete list of locations may be found at WWW.DEA.GOV  by clicking on Drug Take Back and typing in your zip code.

Many Americans are unsure of how to properly dispose of their unused medications and often flush them down the toilet or throw them away. This poses safety and health hazards. More information on how to properly dispose of unused medicines can be found on the Drug Enforcement Administration website.

The Medicare Fraud Strike Force (“MFSF”) is part of a joint initiative between the U.S. Department of Justice and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services to reduce and prevent Medicare and Medicaid fraud through enhanced interagency cooperation. Its purpose is to focus on the worst offenders in fraud, in the highest intensity regions, using data analysis techniques to identify abnormal billing levels in health care fraud “hot spots,” i.e., cities with unusually high levels of billing and other fraud.  The U.S. Department of Justice currently maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 federal districts, and has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $16 billion.

 The Baton Rouge MFSF is comprised of the Department of Justice Fraud Division, the United States Attorney’s Office, Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Louisiana Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.  Since 2009, the Baton Rouge MFSF has charged more than 100 defendants with health care fraud and related offenses, achieving a 96.8% conviction rate. 

As part of the two recent National Health Care Fraud Takedowns, United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced new charges against 6 individuals for health care fraud in Baton Rouge.  Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office (FBI), and Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry joined in this announcement.

Kevin Bernard Hanley and Mark Thomas Allen

In the first case, the grand jury returned an indictment charging Kevin Bernard Hanley, age 42, of Prairieville, Louisiana, with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks and two counts of offering and paying kickbacks and bribes in connection with a federal health care program.  Hanley is the CFO of Acadian Diagnostic Laboratories, LLC (“Acadian”), a laboratory in Baton Rouge that conducts toxicology, blood, and genetic testing.

Mark Thomas Allen, age 51, of Greer, South Carolina, was charged with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, three counts of health care fraud, one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and to pay and receive health care kickbacks, and two counts of solicitation and receipt of kickbacks and bribes in connection with a federal health care program.  Allen owned Archer Diagnostics, LLC (“Archer”), a South Carolina corporation that markets medical testing services.  Allen also owned or controlled JL Management Services, LLC (“JL Management”), a Wyoming-registered corporation that purported to perform management and billing services, and also did business under the name JL Billing.

The charges stem from the defendants’ roles in a scheme to solicit medically unnecessary cancer genetic (CGx) tests from Medicare beneficiaries, have the tests approved by telemedicine doctors who did not engage in treatment of the beneficiaries, and submit claims through diagnostic testing laboratories that paid kickbacks in exchange for the referrals.  Allen and his co-conspirators, through companies they controlled, solicited the tests and arranged for approvals by telemedicine providers.  They then transmitted the test samples and orders to labs in Louisiana, including Acadian, where Hanley was the CFO, and elsewhere.  Acadian, through Hanley and others, paid kickbacks to companies controlled by Allen and others to obtain the referrals, and submitted claims to Medicare for the tests.  Acadian and other labs billed Medicare for more than $240 million. 

The case was investigated by HHS-OIG, FBI, and MFCU, and was brought as part of the MFSF, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana.  Trial Attorneys Gary Winters, Justin Woodard and Tim Loper of the Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Craig of the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

J. Foster Chapman

In the second case, the grand jury returned an indictment charging J. Foster Chapman, age 40, of Alexandria, Louisiana, with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and four counts of health care fraud. 

According to the indictment, Chapman worked for various purported telemedicine companies, for which he wrote medically unnecessary orders for durable medical equipment (DME), including knee braces, for Medicare beneficiaries.  The indictment alleges that an international telemarketing network lured Medicare beneficiaries into the scheme through call centers, and then sent the beneficiaries’ information to purported telemedicine companies.  The indictment further alleges that Chapman, working as an independent contractor for the telemedicine companies, wrote orders for DME without speaking to the beneficiaries and in the absence of any doctor-patient relationship.  Chapman concealed the fraud with falsified orders that stated, among other things, that he consulted with the beneficiaries and conducted diagnostic tests, according to the indictment.  The indictment alleges that Chapman caused the submission of over $4.8 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare. 

The case was investigated by HHS-OIG and FBI, and was brought as part of the MFSF, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana.  Trial Attorney Justin M. Woodard of the Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen L. Craig of the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.

Victor Clark Kirk and Marilyn Brown Antwine

In the third case, the grand jury returned an indictment charging Victor Clark Kirk, age 70, of Baton Rouge, and Marilyn Brown Antwine, age 51, of Baton Rouge, each with one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and five counts of health care fraud. 

According to the indictment, Kirk was the CEO, and Antwine was the COO, of St. Gabriel Health Clinic, Inc. (St. Gabriel), a Louisiana non-profit corporation that provided health care services to Medicaid recipients, and others.  St. Gabriel is a federally qualified health center (FQHC) that contracted with the Iberville Parish School Board to provide medical services within the school district.  As a FQHC, St. Gabriel could provide primary care services to students as well as services related to the diagnosis and treatment of mental illnesses, provided that such services were medically necessary, among other requirements.  The indictment alleges that St. Gabriel practitioners provided character development and other educational programs to entire classrooms of students during regular class periods, and then Kirk and Antwine fraudulently billed, or caused the fraudulent billing of, these programs to Medicaid as group psychotherapy.  The indictment further alleges that to facilitate the fraudulent scheme, Kirk and Antwine directed that St. Gabriel practitioners falsely diagnose students with Axis I mental health disorders.  According to the indictment, during the relevant time period, St. Gabriel’s claims for purported group psychotherapy services totaled more than $1.8 million. 

In March 2019, Michael Dan Gaines, a former licensed clinical social worker at St. Gabriel, pleaded guilty for his role in the fraud scheme. 

The case was investigated by HHS-OIG, FBI, and MFCU, and was brought as part of the MFSF, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana.  Trial Attorney Justin M. Woodard of the Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica M.P. Thornhill of the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.  

Casonya Williams

In the fourth case, the United States filed a bill of information charging Casonya Williams, age 45, of Hammond Louisiana, with one count of health care fraud. 

According to the information, Williams worked as a registered social worker for various behavioral health service providers.  The information alleges that Williams prepared and submitted false and fraudulent progress notes and time sheets to the behavioral health service providers for services purportedly rendered to Medicaid recipients.  These fraudulent documents indicated that Williams provided behavioral health services to recipients when, in fact, the services were not provided.  According to the information, based on the fraudulent documents prepared and submitted by Williams for services not rendered, the behavioral health service providers submitted approximately over $176,000 in claims to Medicaid. 

The case was investigated by HHS-OIG, FBI, and MFCU, and was brought as part of the MFSF, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana.  Trial Attorney Justin M. Woodard of the Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth E. White of the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.  

U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin stated, “This month marks the 10th anniversary of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force in Baton Rouge.  Strike Force teams bring together the resources of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General, the FBI, the Fraud Section of the U.S. Department of Justice's Criminal Division, the U.S. Attorneys' Offices, and other law enforcement agencies, including, in Baton Rouge, the Louisiana Attorney General's award-winning Medicaid Fraud Control Unit.  Over the past ten years, the team has continued working in Baton Rouge and expanded across southern Louisiana into the New Orleans area.

Just last week, the Department announced indictments in five federal districts involving fraudulent genetic cancer testing against 35 individuals for over 2.1 billion in losses in one of the largest health care fraud schemes ever charged.  The Middle District of Louisiana was among the five federal districts who brought charges in this action.

It is important to note that HCF cases require significant resources and often involve well educated suspects who engage in sophisticated criminal behavior that requires investigators and prosecutors to navigate complex and nuanced areas of federal criminal law.  Our collective success is possible because of the dedication and tenacity of the men and women charged with the responsibility of investigating and prosecuting those cases.  Here in the Middle District you have some of the best.”

“Healthcare fraud is not a victimless crime.  Whether corrupt providers engage in genetic testing schemes or other types of healthcare fraud, it’s the trust and well-being of patients and taxpayers that are at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of HHS-OIG.  “Today’s arrests demonstrate our resolve to investigate bad actors and protect the patients served by vital federal health and human services programs.”

Bryan A. Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge stated, “Throughout this case, the men and women of the FBI Baton Rouge Resident Agency, along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, thoroughly investigated several health care facilities and ultimately uncovered a number of violations which are being highlighted here today.  I believe these cases demonstrate the unparalleled collaboration and dedication between all agencies represented within the Medicare Health Care Fraud Strike Force to protect Louisiana residents.”

“Medicaid welfare fraud jeopardizes healthcare resources for Louisiana’s most needy and steals from our State’s taxpayers,” said Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry. “My office and I will continue our efforts to root out this type of fraud and other criminal activity that drives up medical costs for everyone.”

NOTE:  A Bill of Information is an accusation by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.  The defendant is presumed innocent until and unless adjudicated guilty at trial or through a guilty plea. 

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

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that U.S. Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Kendrick Hardnett, age 40, of Baton Rouge, to 111 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute marijuana, cocaine, and cocaine base.  The Court further sentenced Hardnett to 4 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and ordered that the firearm involved be forfeited.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on September 6, 2017, Baton Rouge Police Department narcotics detectives executed a search warrant on Hardnett’s residence. Prior to executing the warrant, Hardnett was observed exiting the residence and departing in a vehicle.  The detectives initiated a traffic stop of Hardnett’s vehicle and recovered two clear plastic baggies containing marijuana, one clear plastic containing cocaine base, and $1,100 from his pockets.  Upon further search of the vehicle, the detectives recovered a firearm from the front driver's side floorboard where Hardnett was seated.  At the same time, a second group of BRPD detectives entered Hardnett’s residence and recovered several clear plastic baggies containing marijuana, cocaine, and cocaine base, and a digital scale from the living room.

Prior to possessing the firearm, Hardnett was convicted of aggravated second-degree battery on April 4, 2007, and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana on September 30, 2010, both in East Baton Rouge Parish.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This conviction and sentence is yet another example of how our partnership with Baton Rouge Police Department and ATF can remove dangerous criminals from our streets to make our communities safer for our citizens.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Baton Rouge Police Department, with substantial assistance from the Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Demetrius Sumner.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that Wallace Byers, age 59, of Miami, Florida, pled guilty to three counts of wire fraud before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson.  As a result of his conviction, Byers faces a significant term of imprisonment, a fine, and a period of supervised release. 

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, between October 2014 and November 2018, Byers solicited victims in the Baton Rouge area and elsewhere to invest with his company, WBI Associates, Inc., promising victims large returns in a short time frame.  Byers focused his solicitations on older individuals and those who had been victims of prior schemes.  He promised his victims that the money would be invested, variously, in gold production, a lottery company, foreign currency, or “dark pools” or “blind pools.”  Whenever his victims pressed for returns or refunds of their money, Byers gave various excuses for delays – the money was invested overseas, other individuals had to “sign off,” or more money needed to be invested before any was paid out.  In truth, instead of investing the money as promised, Byers spent the money on personal expenditures, including among others, approximately $10,000 per month in rent for his residence in a Miami hotel, the lease of luxury cars, and gambling in casinos.  Byers admitted that he received between $3,500,001 and $9,500,000 as a result of his scheme, $3,000,000 of which he sent to a Swiss bank account he controlled.  Byers also admitted that he had two prior federal felony convictions, one of which was for a similar wire fraud scheme.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “This plea demonstrates our commitment to investigate and prosecute criminals who target our community with financial scams and abuse. Defendants who illegally line their pockets by deceiving and defrauding elderly victims have our attention and will be duly investigated and prosecuted.  I am grateful for the outstanding efforts of our prosecutors and the dedicated professionals at the FBI whose collaboration and contributions were critical to the success of this important matter.”

Bryan Vorndran, FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge stated, “Wallace Byers’ greed and pursuit of a lavish lifestyle depleted a number of victims in seven states of their life savings. Through an in-depth investigation, the FBI uncovered Byers’ detailed scheme of defrauding elders and vulnerable citizens for his own personal gain.  I commend the hard work and dedication put forth by the investigative team and prosecutor to bring this case to justice.  We urge the public to perform extensive research before investing with any company or individuals who promise large returns on your investments.  Elder abuse is a top investigative priority for the FBI, if you believe you are a victim please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL FBI or online at https://tips.fbi.gov.”

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations - Baton Rouge Field Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth E. White, who also serves as the Elder Justice Coordinator for the Middle District of Louisiana, and AUSAs Peter J. Smyczek and Demetrius D. Sumner. 

The Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative aims to combat elder financial exploitation by expanding efforts to investigate and prosecute financial scams that target seniors; educate older adults on how to identify scams and avoid becoming victims of financial fraud; and promote greater coordination with law enforcement partners. For more information please visit: https://www.justice.gov/elderjustice.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced that Jaime Gabriel Grimaldi Pena, a.k.a. “Eric” and “Gabriel,” age 44, of Baton Rouge, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine, and heroin.  As a result of his guilty plea, Pena faces a significant term of imprisonment, fines, and forfeiture of the property involved or used in, or derived from, his illegal activity.

Pena was charged in connection with an extensive federal, state, and local investigation by the Middle District’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) aimed at a Mexican-based Drug Trafficking Organization (“DTO”) responsible for the distribution of cocaine and heroin from Mexico to Baton Rouge, Louisiana and other locations throughout the United States.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Pena admitted that from at least July 2017 to March 2018, he was the Baton Rouge point of drug distribution for a DTO that was responsible for the distribution of cocaine and heroin from Mexico throughout the United States.  Pena also worked as a mechanic for vehicles utilized by the DTO to transport illegal drugs by installing hidden compartments used to hide drugs and drug proceeds in transport vehicles and installing tracking devices on said vehicles.   

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This plea demonstrates our on-going commitment to bring justice to those who show blatant disregard for the health and safety of our people by peddling poison in our communities.  I am grateful to our prosecutor and the FBI for their outstanding efforts in the investigation and prosecution of this defendant.” 

“Opioid and heroin addiction does not discriminate because of race, religion, ethnicity, or socio economic status.  Drug addiction is an epidemic that is plaguing the streets of Baton Rouge and across America,” stated Special Agent in Charge Bryan Vorndran.  “Today justice was served to those who chose to traffic and distribute these illicit narcotics on our streets.  The FBI will continue to enforce the laws and intervene when drug traffickers terrorize communities.”

This investigation is another effort by the OCDETF Program, which was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers.  Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, money laundering organizations, and related criminal enterprises.  The OCDETF Program operates nationwide and combines the resources and unique expertise of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations.

This OCDETF operation is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and the FBI Baton Rouge Capitol Area Gang Task Force.  This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jamie Flowers, Jr.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Raul Burden, a 27-year-old resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, to 60 months in federal prison following his conviction of possessing a firearm by a convicted felon.  The Court further sentenced Burden to 3 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment and ordered that the firearm involved be forfeited.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, on December 24, 2018, EMS dispatchers received three 911 calls reporting shots being fired outside of an apartment complex located on Manson Drive in Baton Rouge.  East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s deputies responded to the scene.  Upon arrival, deputies identified Burden from the emergency calls and ordered him to remove his hands from his pockets and place them on his head.  Burden did not comply.  When deputies again ordered Burden to remove his hands, he threw the firearm away from himself.  The firearm, a Charter Arms “Off Duty” .38 special caliber revolver, was recovered at the scene. 

Prior to possessing the firearm, Burden was convicted of intimidating, impeding, or injuring witnesses in May 2009, in East Baton Rouge Parish and attempted introduction of contraband at a municipal or parish prison or jail in October 2015, in Ouachita Parish.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This office remains committed to upholding the rule of law by investigating and prosecuting convicted felons, such as this defendant, who illegally possess firearms.  I want to commend the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Officers whose rapid response to an unsafe situation resulted in a dangerous criminal being disarmed.  I also want to thank my prosecutor, as well as the ATF, and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s office for their work in this case. Notably, I would like to recognize the members of the community who had the courage to dial 911 and report the incident which allowed first responders to quickly respond and make a lawful arrest.”

“This individual disregarded both the law and the safety of others,” stated ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn.  “The sentence imposed today sends a strong message to criminals that they will be held accountable for their actions.”

“The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is committed to working with all of our local, state and federal counterparts to get dangerous criminals with weapons off the streets of our community,” Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said. “We are grateful for the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s commitment to prosecute these cases on the federal level to ensure the continued safety of our community.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristen Craig.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Devante Courtney, a 26-year-old resident of Baton Rouge, to 68 months in federal prison following his conviction for possessing a firearm by a convicted felon.  The Court further sentenced Courtney to 3 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and ordered that the firearm possessed by Courtney be forfeited.

On November 5, 2018, East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office deputies conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Courtney who, upon contact, was observed stuffing an item between his seat and the center console.

During a subsequent search of the vehicle, deputies located a stolen Glock 19, 9mm handgun, in the area between the driver's seat and the center console.  The handgun was fully loaded with 34 live rounds in its extended magazine.  Additionally, Courtney was in possession of a clear plastic bag containing 50 individually wrapped bags of a synthetic cannabinoid. 

Prior to possessing the firearm, Courtney was convicted of obtaining a controlled dangerous substance by fraud and attempting to obtain a controlled dangerous substance by fraud on December 17, 2014, in East Baton Rouge Parish. 

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This conviction and sentence sends the message that my office and our partners remain committed to investigating, arresting, and prosecuting convicted criminals who decide to illegally possess firearms.  Great credit goes to our partnership with local authorities for this result.  I want to thank our prosecutor, the ATF, and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office for their work on this case.”

“The sentence imposed today sends a strong message to criminals that they will be held accountable for their actions,” stated ATF New Orleans Field Division Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey Powell.  “ATF is committed to collaborate with all of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to remove violent criminals from our neighborhoods and communities.”  

“The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is proud of the partnership we have with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and appreciate their commitment to prosecute these cases on the federal level,” Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said.  “This case is a prime example of collaboration and cooperation carried out through all levels of the process to ensure the safety of our community.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office, with substantial assistance from the Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Jarreau.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that United States Chief Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Douglas Dawayne Chenevert, III, a 40-year-old resident of Baker, Louisiana, to 30 months in federal prison following his conviction for possessing firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon.  The Court further sentenced Chenevert to 30 months years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and ordered that the firearms possessed by Chenevert be forfeited.

According to admissions made during his guilty plea, on July 14, 2018, Baton Rouge Police Department responded to a burglary at a cell phone shop on North Foster Drive.  An officer observed two men enter the shop by cutting the lock on a roll up steel door and breaking the glass.  As the two men left the shop in a pickup truck, later determined to be stolen, the officer activated his lights and siren to initiate a stop.  The driver fled and, after a short chase, wrecked the truck into a residence on Tecumseh Street.  Both suspects then fled on foot.  A canine officer and his dog quickly apprehended Chenevert, the driver of the pickup truck who had previously been convicted of a felony.  Upon being taken into custody and patted down, the officer found a loaded Smith and Wesson 9mm pistol in Chenevert's clothing.  A later check determined the firearm to be loaded with thirteen (13) 9mm caliber Winchester cartridges.

Later that day, Baton Rouge Police obtained a valid search warrant for the residence which Chenevert used as a rental property.  Inside the residence, officers found and seized the following: an Ithaca,12 gauge shotgun, a Berretta ARX Model 160, .22 caliber rifle, a Ruger Model AR556 .223 caliber rifle, and a Taurus Judge .410 gauge/45 Long Colt caliber pistol.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Making sure convicted felons who illegally possess firearms are held accountable remains a top priority of my office.  The efforts of our partners, ATF and the Baton Rouge Police Department, are invaluable in our mission.  I want to thank our prosecutor and our federal and local partners for their work on this case.”

“ATF and our law enforcement partners will continue to focus our efforts on the disruption of violent crime in our community through the arrest and prosecution of violent criminals,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn.  “ATF’s top priorities remain to protect the public and remove violent criminals from our streets.”

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Baton Rouge Police Department.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lyman Thornton.

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that Chief United States District Judge Shelly D. Dick sentenced Gaylen T. Hall, a 41-year-old resident of Prairieville, Louisiana, to 72 months in federal prison following his conviction for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  The Court further sentenced Hall to 3 years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment, and ordered that the firearm possessed by Hall be forfeited.

According to the factual basis submitted during Hall’s guilty plea, on January 30, 2019, a Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy initiated a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Tahoe near the intersection of Juban Road and Interstate 12.  After a brief stop, the Tahoe drove off before the Deputy could contact the occupants.  During the pursuit, Hall, the front seat passenger, threw methamphetamine, a Sig Sauer firearm, and various other items out of the front passenger-side window of the Tahoe.  Hall had instructed the driver to drive off after the initial stop.

The Tahoe eventually stopped along the side of Interstate 12.  After detaining the driver and Hall, deputies approached an open door of the Tahoe and observed what appeared to be methamphetamine littered throughout the interior compartment.  During the subsequent search, deputies recovered digital scales, several clear plastic sandwich bags, a box containing 84 rounds of .45 caliber ammunition, plastic straws, $100 in cash, a quantity of methamphetamine, and a damaged Samsung smartphone on the front passenger seat.

Meanwhile, other responding deputies canvassed the side of the road along the pursuit route.  These deputies recovered plastic sandwich bags containing a quantity of methamphetamine, the Sig Sauer firearm with one live round of Remington .45 caliber ammunition in the chamber, and other items.  In total, deputies recovered 30.17 grams of methamphetamine.

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Our office continues to work hard to keep firearms and illegal drugs out of the hands of drug dealers.  Working with our law enforcement partners, we will utilize our resources to keep our communities safe.  I want to thank our prosecutors, and our federal, state, and local partners for their efforts.”

“This individual disregarded both the law and the safety of others,” said ATF New Orleans Field Division Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn.  “It is imperative that armed drug dealers are taken out of the community they victimize and before a tragedy can occur.”

“I am proud of my deputies for working hard to help maintain the safety of Livingston Parish.  I would hope that this sends a clear message to criminals who choose this lifestyle.  We will not tolerate this type of activity.  As always, I appreciate the cooperation between law enforcement agencies & the working relationship we have with the US Attorney,” said Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard.

This matter is being handled by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, with substantial assistance from the Louisiana State Police Crime Laboratory.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Chris Dippel and Alan Stevens, who also serve as Deputy Criminal Chiefs. 

A Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based physician’s assistant was sentenced to seven years in prison today for his role in a scheme to unlawfully distribute prescriptions for thousands of oxycodone pills.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin of the Middle District of Louisiana, Special Agent in Charge Stephen G. Azzam of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New Orleans Field Division, Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Field Office and Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony T. Riedlinger of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office made the announcement. 

Christopher William Armstrong, 45, of Prairieville, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles of the Middle District of Louisiana, who also ordered Armstrong to serve three years of supervised release and forfeit $168,000.  In November 2018, Armstrong pleaded guilty to one count of an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

Armstrong was a licensed physician’s assistant employed by Louisiana Spine & Sports LLC, a pain management clinic located in Baton Rouge, from approximately August 2004 through January 2014.  As part of his guilty plea, Armstrong admitted that he logged into the clinic’s computer system and, without authorization, created fraudulent prescriptions for controlled substances such as oxycodone.  He then printed the fraudulent prescriptions and either forged the signatures of the clinic’s physicians on the prescriptions or caused those physicians to unknowingly sign the prescriptions.  Armstrong further admitted that he distributed the fraudulent prescriptions to co-conspirators, whom he instructed to fill the prescriptions at pharmacies and return the controlled substances to him in exchange for cash payments.  Armstrong admitted that in an effort to conceal the scheme, he deleted records of the fraudulent prescriptions from the clinic’s computer system.  As part of his plea, Armstrong admitted that from approximately May 2009 through March 2014, he fraudulently generated prescriptions for at least 40,470 oxycodone pills. 

The case was investigated by the DEA, HHS-OIG and the FBI, and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, with assistance from the East Baton Rouge District Attorney’s Office.  Trial Attorney Justin M. Woodard of the Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Demetrius D. Sumner of the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.   

The Medicare Fraud Strike Force is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country.  Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.  In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.

BATON ROUGE – A Baton Rouge, Louisiana-based physician’s assistant was sentenced to seven years in prison today for his role in a scheme to unlawfully distribute prescriptions for thousands of oxycodone pills.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin of the Middle District of Louisiana, Special Agent in Charge Stephen G. Azzam of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)’s New Orleans Field Division, Special Agent in Charge C.J. Porter of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General’s (HHS-OIG) Dallas Field Office and Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony T. Riedlinger of the FBI’s New Orleans Field Office made the announcement. 

Christopher William Armstrong, 45, of Prairieville, Louisiana, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles of the Middle District of Louisiana, who also ordered Armstrong to serve three years of supervised release and forfeit $168,000.  In November 2018, Armstrong pleaded guilty to one count of an indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. 

Armstrong was a licensed physician’s assistant employed by Louisiana Spine & Sports LLC, a pain management clinic located in Baton Rouge, from approximately August 2004 through January 2014.  As part of his guilty plea, Armstrong admitted that he logged into the clinic’s computer system and, without authorization, created fraudulent prescriptions for controlled substances such as oxycodone.  He then printed the fraudulent prescriptions and either forged the signatures of the clinic’s physicians on the prescriptions or caused those physicians to unknowingly sign the prescriptions.  Armstrong further admitted that he distributed the fraudulent prescriptions to co-conspirators, whom he instructed to fill the prescriptions at pharmacies and return the controlled substances to him in exchange for cash payments.  Armstrong admitted that in an effort to conceal the scheme, he deleted records of the fraudulent prescriptions from the clinic’s computer system.  As part of his plea, Armstrong admitted that from approximately May 2009 through March 2014, he fraudulently generated prescriptions for at least 40,470 oxycodone pills. 

 

The case was investigated by the DEA, HHS-OIG and the FBI, and was brought as part of the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, supervised by the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, with assistance from the East Baton Rouge District Attorney’s Office.  Trial Attorney Justin M. Woodard of the Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Demetrius D. Sumner of the Middle District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case.   

The Medicare Fraud Strike Force is part of a joint initiative between the Department of Justice and HHS to focus their efforts to prevent and deter fraud and enforce current anti-fraud laws around the country.  Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.  In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that HENRY BABIN, age 29, of Gonzales, Louisiana, pled guilty before Brian A. Jackson to possessing child pornography.  As a result of his conviction, Babin faces a term of imprisonment, a fine, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made during his plea, on January 26, 2018, Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force agents executed a search warrant for Babin’s property.  During the execution of the warrant, Babin emerged from a detached shed that had been converted into a private residence, in which he solely resided. 

Electronic devices were discovered and a preview of these devices on scene revealed numerous images and videos of child pornography.  A subsequent forensic examination of   Babin’s computer and cell phone revealed at least 600 images of child pornography including images and videos of prepubescent minors, including infants, engaged in various sex acts.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “Our children are among the most vulnerable in our society and deserve our protection. This plea demonstrates our dedication to protecting children from those who seek to exploit them by possessing vile and disgusting images such as those found in this case.  We are committed to this fight and will make every effort to prevent child predators from taking advantage of our youth. I want to thank our prosecutor, the FBI, and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Cyber Crime Unit for their partnership and collaboration on this case.”

“The protection of our children is one of the most sacred responsibilities entrusted to the FBI.  The FBI takes a proactive approach to identify unknown individuals involved in the sexual exploitation of children and the production of child pornography. We remain vigilant and continue our active role to ensure children are protected. We reaffirm our commitment to removing sexual predators from children’s lives through the justice system,” stated Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew Anderson.

“It is critical that people who are exploiting our children are found and brought to justice,” said Attorney General Landry. “The victimization of our state’s youth will not be tolerated, and we will continue working with our law enforcement partners to put an end to it.”

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with critical assistance from the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office  - Cyber Crime Unit and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Demetrius Sumner. 

Two former correctional officers at Elayn Hunt Correctional Center in St. Gabriel, Louisiana, were sentenced today for their roles in assaults on a handcuffed inmate in January 2017. Adrian Almodovar III and Charles Philson III previously pleaded guilty to depriving the inmate of his constitutional rights while acting under color of law.

“The Justice Department is committed to holding correctional officers who deprive inmates of their right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment accountable to the public,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband. “The Civil Rights Division will continue to obtain justice for victims of these atrocious crimes.”

“The vast majority of law enforcement officers maintain a high standard of conduct and perform their duties with honesty, integrity, and bravery. Law enforcement officers at every level should be held to a high standard and those who deprive citizens of their civil rights and undermine the public trust should be held accountable. I want to thank the United States Department of Justice Civil Rights Division, the FBI, and Louisiana Office of the State Inspector General, and our staff for their efforts in this case.”

"Along with our partners, the FBI will aggressively pursue allegations wherein correctional officers abuse their position of power and authority to deny persons their constitutional right to be free from cruel and unusual punishment,” stated Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew Anderson. “The FBI is appreciative of its partnership with the LA Department of Corrections to root out correctional officers who choose to break the law and physically abuse defenseless inmates.”

“Corrections Officers are given great authority and trust, and when they abuse that trust, it undermines the entire system,” said Louisiana Inspector General Stephen Street. “Physically abusing a handcuffed inmate can never be tolerated. It was entirely appropriate that these individuals be prosecuted and punished. The Louisiana OIG will continue working these criminal cases with our law enforcement partners for as long as necessary to protect the integrity of our system.  I want to thank U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin and the Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice for all their efforts on this case.”

During his previous plea hearing, Almodovar admitted to unlawfully striking inmate J.H. on multiple occasions while J.H. was handcuffed. He also admitted to failing to intervene to stop his fellow correctional officers from using unlawful force on J.H.  Almodovar further admitted to unlawfully striking a second inmate, L.B., in the head while L.B. was handcuffed. Almodovar was sentenced to 18 months in prison.

Philson previously pleaded guilty to witnessing other correctional officers using unlawful force on J.H. and failing to intervene to stop them. He was sentenced to 12 months probation.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Baton Rouge Resident Agency Office and the Louisiana Office of the State Inspector General. Trial Attorney Christopher J. Perras and Assistant United States Attorney Cal Leipold also assisted in the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Zachary Dembo of the Criminal Section of the Civil Rights Division.

United States Attorney Brandon Fremin announced that United States District Court Judge John W. deGravelles sentenced JESUS MORALES-SANCHEZ, age 35, of Mexico, to serve 37 months in federal prison following his conviction for illegal re-entry into the United States by a removed alien.  During the sentencing hearing, the Court cited the defendant’s extensive history of alcohol abuse, including an incident where the defendant’s actions resulted in the death of the passenger of his vehicle. 

Morales-Sanchez was encountered by law enforcement on February 15, 2019, after serving one year in the Louisiana Department of Corrections for driving while intoxicated – third offense.  Prior to his release from custody, an agent with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (“ICE”) confirmed that the defendant was a citizen of Mexico, with no legal status to reside or work in the United States, who had been previously removed from the United States on April 21, 2011.  The defendant’s criminal history includes convictions for vehicular homicide and driving while intoxicated.    

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “This office will not tolerate those who enter our nation illegally and break laws intended to keep our communities safe.  We will continue to hold accountable those illegal aliens who enter this country and disregard the rule of law.  I want to thank our prosecutor, and the federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies who brought this offender to justice.”

This matter was handled by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.  This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Jarreau.    

BATON ROUGE, LA - Today, officials from the Department of Justice's Bureau of Justice Assistance, the United States Attorney's Office, Middle District of Louisiana, the Baton Rouge Police Department, and many other local, state and federal partners, convened in Baton Rouge, LA to initiate the National Public Safety Partnership (PSP) program.   This Justice Department program is a three-year engagement that seeks to leverage department assets in support of a local jurisdiction’s commitment to drive down violent crime. 

On June 3, 2019, Attorney General William Barr announced the selection of the Baton Rouge Police Department as one of ten FY 2019 PSP sites where the Justice Department will work collaboratively to provide training and technical assistance in areas such as crime analytics, emerging technology and community engagement.  

Since 2017, the Justice Department has directed nearly $14.9 million in customized training and technical assistance to help build crime fighting capacity in PSP sites, including $6.6 million to support the FY 2019 sites through FY 2022. PSP seeks to bring law enforcement stakeholders together to work collaboratively in reducing violent crime attributed to felonious firearm use, drug trafficking and human trafficking. 

“Today our team is on-site in Baton Rouge to collaborate with local law enforcement officials in their mission to improve public safety and drive down violent crime,” said Jon Adler, Director of the Bureau of Justice Assistance.  "Through the Public Safety Partnership, we are committed to fulfilling the Attorney General's priority of supporting local law enforcement combat violent gangs, felonious firearms use and drug trafficking," added Adler.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “I am extraordinarily grateful to Attorney General Barr for selecting Baton Rouge as a Public Safety Partnership site and for his willingness to supplement and support our local violent crime efforts with additional resources and training. Along with our state and local partners we will continue our collaboration to combat violent crime in our communities and will work tirelessly to achieve our goal of reducing violent crime in the district.”

Baton Rouge Police Chief Murphy Paul stated, "We look forward to our continued partnership with the US Department of Justice.  The technical assistance and training our department will receive from DOJ experts will strengthen our ability to address violent crime in the city of Baton Rouge.   As an agency, BRPD is committed to using innovative ways to improve public safety in our community."

Since 2017, the Justice Department has worked with more than 30 local jurisdictions under the nationwide PSP program. Many participating cities have already seen dramatic reductions in violent crime. New Orleans ended 2018 with 146 murders, the lowest number of murders since the early 1970s. In Milwaukee, homicides declined in 2018 for a third straight year after hitting a deadly peak in 2015.  

Other agencies in attendance at this meeting included the Office of Justice Programs; East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office; East Baton Rouge District Attorney’s Office; Office of the Mayor-President; U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Marshals Service; United States Secret Service; Internal Revenue Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Louisiana Attorney General’s Office; Louisiana Department of Justice; Louisiana Office of Alcohol Beverage Control; Zachary Police Department; Baker Police Department; and Southern University Police Department.

For more information about PSP, visit https://www.nationalpublicsafetypartnership.org.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today the recent unsealing of a federal grand jury indictment charging twenty-two defendants in Operation Jellystone, an extensive federal, state, and local investigation aimed at dismantling a large-scale cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine trafficking network based in the Louisiana State Penitentiary at Angola, with suppliers in East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana, and Colton, California.

According to the indictment, which was filed under seal in July 2019 and recently unsealed by the Court, the defendants allegedly engaged in extensive drug trafficking with substantial amounts of cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine being smuggled into Angola for distribution to dealers and users within Angola.  The charged defendants are listed below, and each faces significant terms of imprisonment, fines, and the forfeiture of proceeds from the illegal activity:

Arthur Basaldua, a/k/a/ “Yogi,” “Big Bro,” “Big Mex,” and “Mex,” age 41, an inmate at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; aiding and abetting unlawful travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise; and unlawful use of communication facilities.

Deanthony Ford, a/k/a D’Anthony Ford,” “D,” “Dee,” and “D Ant,” age 32, an inmate at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Nelson Tippen, age 39, an inmate at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Kevin Narcisse, age 34, an inmate at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and unlawful use of communication facilities.

Dudley Melancon, a/k/a “Murder,” age 31, an inmate at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Joshua Gonzalez, a/k/a “Joshua Gonzales” and “Ro,” age 35, an inmate at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and unlawful use of communication facilities.

Jared Graham, age 30, an inmate at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and unlawful use of communication facilities.

Jeffery Day, a/k/a “JD,” “Ray,” and “Ray Ray,” age 34, a former correctional officer at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. 

Tommy Carter, Jr., a/k/a “TJ,” age 31, a former correctional officer at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

April Mathews, age 25, a former correctional officer at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Precious Shelvin, a/k/a “Precious Shelby,” age 33, a former correctional officer at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Tichina Williams, age 24, a former correctional officer at Angola, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Michael Augustine, age 39, of Erath, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and unlawful use of communication facilities.

Xavier Johnson, a/k/a “Ziggy” and “Zigg,” age 34, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.

Manuel Cadena, a/k/a “Joker,” age 38, of Colton, California, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

Michael Cadena, a/k/a “Mikey,” age 29, of Hesperia, California, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Edgar Ochoa, a/k/a “Edgar Ochoa Contreras,” age 35, of Riverside, California, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Ismael Ochoa, a/k/a “Diablo” and “Ismael Contreras Ochoa,” age 32, of Riverside, California, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and unlawful travel in aid of a racketeering enterprise.

Quindale Smothers, age 23, of Lafayette, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Eryka Daniels, a/k/a “Mookie,” age 35, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

Adrienne Capizzo, age 32, of Westwego, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and unlawful use of communication facilities.

Evelyn Valdes, a/k/a “Eve,” age 42, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “This indictment disrupts a drug distribution conspiracy which brought significant amounts of cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and methamphetamine into our district.  Those charged include inmates at Angola serving either life or other significant terms of imprisonment, former Angola guards, and drug suppliers from California.  We will continue our work with federal, state, and local law enforcement, throughout the country, to dismantle criminal networks, and bring offenders to justice in order to protect our citizens and promote respect for the law.  I want to thank our prosecutor, the FBI, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the West Feliciana Sheriff, and the Louisiana Department of Corrections who worked tirelessly, and in constant coordination, to advance the goal of eliminating opioids and other harmful drugs from our district.”

Larry Karl, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI New Orleans Field Office, stated, “The FBI, in coordination with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, executed numerous arrest warrants in Louisiana and California on charges related to a drug conspiracy at Angola Prison.  These arrests exemplify partnerships and cooperation across all agencies, especially from Angola Prison’s Investigations Division, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, West Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana Department of Corrections. The FBI New Orleans Field Office will continue to aggressively investigate federal violations of malfeasance, corruption, and illegal activity within all of our correctional facilities.”

“This indictment should serve as a warning to street criminals and corrupt public servants that our nation’s mail system is not for trafficking contraband,” said Inspector in Charge Adrian Gonzalez, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Houston Division.  “Postal Inspectors are committed to safeguarding postal customers and Postal Service employees by working with our law enforcement partners to eliminate these prohibited substances from the U.S. Mail.”

West Feliciana Parish Sheriff J. Austin Daniel said, “We reached out to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for assistance during the course of this investigation and greatly appreciate their help and cooperation between agencies.  Removing drugs and drug traffickers from our community is another way we protect and serve.  Thank you to all who put their time and immense effort into Operation Jellystone to keep our citizens safe.”

"We continue to crackdown and fight contraband in our prisons,” said Department of Public Safety and Corrections Secretary Jimmy Le Blanc.  “We are appreciative of our partnership during this investigation with the U.S. Attorney, the FBI, and the West Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office, which resulted in the arrests and indictments of these individuals, particularly those who chose to betray the public’s trust.  This is not a reflection of the many hard working men and women in our Department who are dedicated to keeping our prisons and our public safe."  

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Louisiana Department of Corrections and West Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office.  This matter is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Paul L. Pugliese.

The investigation that led to this indictment is another effort by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program that was established in 1982 to mount a comprehensive attack against organized drug traffickers.  Today, the OCDETF Program is the centerpiece of the United States Attorney General’s drug strategy to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations and money laundering organizations and related criminal enterprises.  The OCDETF Program operates nationwide and combines the resources and unique expertise of numerous federal, state, and local agencies in a coordinated attack against major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations. 

NOTE: 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 Brandon J. Fremin announced today that JIMMY E. LINDSEY, age 33, of Springfield, Louisiana, pled guilty on July 24, 2019, before U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, marijuana, and oxycodone, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  As a result of his guilty plea, LINDSEY faces a significant term of imprisonment, fine, and period of supervised release.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, LINDSEY possessed the firearm as part of his drug trafficking operation.  Specifically, on July 5, 2018, agents with the Louisiana Probation and Parole, along with Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office narcotics detectives, attempted to conduct a compliance check at LINDSEY’s residence.  LINDSEY was on probation for felony narcotics distribution charges in Livingston Parish.  Agents were aware that LINDSEY would be driving a black BMW.  While patrolling the area near the LINDSEY’s residence, detectives encountered a black BMW leaving the area.  Detectives observed the driver of the BMW fail to utilize turn signals on two separate occasions and initiated a traffic stop.

As detectives approached the vehicle, they recognized the driver to be LINDSEY.  They also smelled a strong odor of marijuana emitting from the vehicle.  As LINDSEY was secured, the deputies found a loaded Smith and Wesson .380 pistol, in LINDSEY’s back right pants pocket. The detectives also located methamphetamine and oxycodone pills in LINDSEY’s right pants pocket, as well as two zip-lock bags of marijuana in the trunk of the vehicle.

U.S. Attorney Brandon Fremin stated, “Defendants like this who brazenly continue to commit crimes in violation of felony probation will be held accountable on our watch.  This conviction is yet another example of our office’s commitment to keep convicted criminals from continuing to poison our citizens with illegal drugs.  I want to thank our prosecutor, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Louisiana Office of Probation and Parole, and Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office for their work in this case.  This kind of collaboration among federal and local law enforcement ensures that convicted felons do not continue to deal drugs and commit crimes in our communities.”

“Our goal is to protect our citizens.  Period.  The veterans within the LPSO Narcotics Division focus on knowing the players, uncovering the illegal activity & providing a solid case for prosecution.  I appreciate their dedication to Livingston Parish & the working relationship we have with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney,” stated Livingston Parish Sheriff Jason Ard.

This matter is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with critical assistance from the Louisiana Probation and Parole Office and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eli J. Abad.

United States Attorney Brandon J. Fremin announced today that CONSTANTIN TANASE, age 40, of Bacau, Romania, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to using and trafficking in unauthorized access devices.  As a result of his conviction, TANASE faces a term of imprisonment, a fine, and a period of supervised release.

According to admissions made during his plea, from November 9, 2018 through November 15, 2018, TANASE was part of a group who traveled to the Baton Rouge area to conduct ATM fraud.  The group distributed fraudulent debit cards to its members and instructed them to go to certain ATMs and withdraw money until the cards stopped working.  The true owners of the debit cards were unaware of this activity and did not authorize the cash withdrawals. 

Specifically, in the early morning of November 14, 2018, TANASE was a passenger in a car that drove up to a bank ATM in Gonzales, Louisiana.  TANASE placed black tape over the ATM camera lens, where it remained while he conducted transactions, and then removed the tape before the car drove away.  Over the course of 90 minutes, occasionally leaving to permit another customer to use the ATM and then returning, TANASE used over 40 unauthorized cards to fraudulently withdraw over $7,000 from the ATM. 

U.S. Attorney Brandon J. Fremin stated, “Access device fraud including the fraudulent use of personal financial information will not be tolerated in this district, and our office is committed to protecting consumers and businesses from these criminals.  Special thanks to our prosecutor and to the dedicated professionals from the U.S. Secret Service and the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office who worked on this investigation and prosecution.” 

Resident Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service in Baton Rouge, Tara McLeese, stated, “This case is a perfect example of the strong partnerships between federal and local law enforcement, specifically those departments who are members of the Southwest Louisiana Financial Crimes Task Force which is overseen by the Secret Service.  The resources of the task force help bring criminals to justice with minimal impact to victims and the community.”

This matter is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service with critical assistance from the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elizabeth White.