Western District of Louisiana

SHREVEPORT – On September 22, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), secured a federal criminal complaint charging Maylon Foshee, 23, of Mansfield, with engaging in illicit sexual conduct with minors in a foreign country.  If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in federal prison.

“Protecting children from sexual abuse wherever it occurs is one of this Administration’s highest priorities, and identifying, investigating, and prosecuting child predators in our Louisiana communities lies at the heart of our Office’s mission to keep our communities safe,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Our Office thanks the FBI for its phenomenal investigative work and looks forward to seeing justice done in this significant case.”

According to court documents, Foshee traveled to Haiti numerous times between 2023 and 2026 while working with a ministry organization in Gonaives, a coastal city in Haiti. During that period, Foshee allegedly engaged in illicit sexual conduct with several minor victims under his care, including minors who resided with him or who received financial support from him. In August 2026, investigators interviewed three minor victims who described incidents of alleged sexual abuse that occurred while Foshee housed or supervised them in Haiti. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The FBI investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheyenne Y. Wilson, with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.  Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more at  https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
Cara Alexander: (337) 262-6704
Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov

MONROE – On September 29, 2026, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller, along with federal, state and local partners, held a press conference to announce federal charges returned by a grand jury against seven defendants in a massive arson-related insurance fraud and money laundering conspiracy. (1) Lashaundalyn Whitlock Brown, 41, of West Monroe, (2) LaQuadra Whitlock, 26, of West Monroe, (3) Latricia Whitlock, 20, of Monroe, (4) Romenique Whitlock, 37, of Monroe, (5) Jonika James, 25, of Monroe, (6) Iesha Alexander, 26, of Monroe, and (7) Travericka Williams, 27, of Dallas, Texas, are charged with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, Wire Fraud, and Use of Fire to Commit Federal Felony, with Lashaundalyn, LaQuadra, and Latricia Whitlock further charged with Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, Concealment Money Laundering, and Structuring.  Defendants were arrested on September 23, 2026, and each face decades in federal prison if convicted on all charges, with substantial mandatory minimums as well.

“Setting homes ablaze to allegedly collect fraudulent insurance payouts is a brazen violation of trust,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Department of Justice’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Thanks to the outstanding work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Louisiana and their federal, state, and local partners, this case is moving forward with charges that hold these defendants accountable for their alleged acts that put innocent lives at risk for profit.”   
                  
“The audacity, the recklessness, and the greed of these defendants to allegedly turn fire setting into a for-profit operation is staggering. The conspirators charged here fed their greed by putting innocent lives at risk, including those of first responders, and destroyed the hard earned property of others while contributing to higher insurance costs for us all,” said U.S Attorney Zachary A. Keller.  “Our Office, alongside our federal, state, and local partners, are eager to see this matter through to its conclusion and will pursue a full accounting and real justice for those responsible for these alleged crimes.”

"The cost to Louisiana policyholders is impossible to calculate," said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp. "But every single one of us pays the price when criminals take advantage of programs meant to help actual victims. There is also real damage done to the businesses who invest in our communities. It is up to the FBI and our partners to investigate fraud and hold individuals accountable to protect everyone across this state."

The indictment alleges that the defendants carried out a years long fraud scheme involving intentionally set residential fires, fraudulent insurance claims, and fraudulent disaster relief claims in the Monroe and West Monroe areas.  It is further alleged that between 2019 and 2026, the defendants routinely rented homes, obtained homeowners insurance policies, and then caused approximately 13 fires at those residences. They allegedly submitted false insurance claims seeking payments for fabricated personal property losses and extended stay hotel reimbursements. It is further alleged that the defendants submitted fraudulent relief claims with a national humanitarian organization for which they received cash payments under false pretenses. The indictment provides photos of the fires that reflect the extent of the damage done in furtherance of the scheme, including one photo of a residence ablaze as first responders endangered their lives to control the fire:

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The case was investigated by the FBI, Louisiana State Fire Marshal, the Monroe Fire Department, and the Louisiana State Police.

This case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller and Assistant U.S Attorney Amy J. Miller, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills and Investigator Carl Richard.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is pending assignment. 

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE–On September 24, 2026, United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Charles Jackson, 38, of Many, Louisiana, to 63 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release, for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, after his guilty plea on June 22, 2026.

The same day, Judge Summerhays also sentenced Andrew Bulloch, 58,  of Leesville, to 60 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. He pled guilty on June 8, 2026.  

Jackson and Bulloch were members of the same indicted conspiracy.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

BULLOCH

According to court documents, Bulloch conspired with others to obtain distribution-level quantities of methamphetamine. On one occasion, federal agents intercepted telephone calls between Bulloch and a co-conspirator in which Bulloch sought three ounces of methamphetamine due to high customer demand.

JACKSON

According to court documents, Jackson conspired to acquire distribution-level quantities of methamphetamine. Investigators intercepted discussions involving Jackson and co-conspirators discussing the purchase of large quantities of methamphetamine for future sales on August 6, 2025.  The next day, the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office (VPSO) stopped Jackson and his co-conspirators after they had completed a methamphetamine purchase, with VPSO recovering a black bag containing 231.6 grams of methamphetamine during the stop.

These cases were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Agency and VPSO.  They were prosecuted by Assistance U.S. Attorney LaDonte Murphy with the assistance of Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.

These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more at www.justice.gov/psn.

Related court documents for Bulloch may be found at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or via CM/ECF under case number 6:26-CR-00027-09; Jackson, under case number 6:26-CR-00027-08.

###
        

CONTACT: Public Affairs
(337) 262-6704
Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA

SHREVEPORT — On September 28, 2026, in Shreveport, United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller and the FBI New Orleans Field Office hosted a press conference to announce the formation of the GATOR Task Force, a major new initiative to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in Northwest Louisiana.

Governor Jeff Landry and  Shreveport Mayor Tom Arceneaux were also in attendance.

U.S. Attorney Keller began the press conference by explaining that the newly launched GATOR Task Force—the Gun Crime Abatement and Targeted Offender Response Team—was initiated on July 9th, 2026, to confront violent crime through a unified, multi agency strategy. He emphasized that the Task Force is built around a core group of FBI Special Agents and FBI Task Force Officers from the Louisiana State Police, now working in coordination with every law enforcement agency in the region, including the Shreveport Police Department’s Violent Crimes Abatement Team, the Bossier, Caddo, and Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Offices, the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, the Caddo Parish Juvenile Services, the Caddo Parish District Attorney’s Office, and others.

Mr. Keller said the Task Force enhances already existing partnerships and provides a centralized, rapid response capability focused on the offenders that drive violence. He detailed significant early results since the inception of the Task Force that include approximately 65 arrests and eight federal indictments along with multiple ongoing federal investigations, with seizures of over 400 pounds of marijuana and THC products, more than 20 pounds of methamphetamine, 25 firearms, and four stolen vehicles, demonstrating the Task Force’s immediate impact on violent crime and drug trafficking networks. Mr. Keller also highlighted the GATOR Task Force’s work in recent months, including its involvement in investigating and federally prosecuting Tre’veon Jackson. 

Following Mr. Keller’s remarks, several law enforcement leaders, including the Governor, provided brief comments underscoring their support for the Task Force and its mission. Speakers included:

o    Governor Landry o    Jonathan Tapp, Special Agent in Charge, FBI New Orleans Division o    Joshua Jackson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF New Orleans Field Division o    Frank Besson, Superintendent, Louisiana State Police o    Wayne Smith, Chief, Shreveport Police Department o    Henry Whitehorn, Sr., Caddo Parish Sheriff o    James E. Stewart, Sr., Caddo Parish District Attorney

Each expressed appreciation and dedication to the unified approach. It was noted that the GATOR Task Force represents one of the strongest collaborative efforts to combat violent crime in the region.
 

###
          
CONTACT: Public Affairs: Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704    

LAKE CHARLES – On September 24, 2026, United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr., sentenced Leeroy Sidney Hymel, III, 40, of Denham Springs, to 135 months in federal prison for Receipt of Child Pornography after his June 30, 2026, guilty plea. 

“Mr. Hymel’s sentencing is yet another reminder to parents that predators can unfortunately turn up anywhere, including even our softball fields,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “No prison term can undo the harm Mr. Hymel has caused, but this investigation, prosecution, and resulting sentence send a clear message to those who would prey upon our children: we will find you, we will charge you, and you will be looking at a lengthy prison sentence.”

According to court documents, Hymel was a softball umpire for a tournament for players 16 and under. Beginning around May 20, 2024, Hymel began to send lewd and lascivious pictures and videos of himself engaging in sexual acts to a minor female player. Records show Hymel enticed the victim to reciprocate and send similar explicit pictures and videos of herself through social media applications.  

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

Homeland Security Investigations and Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey Richmond Stelly with assistance from Legal Assistant Kimberly Blanchard.  

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.  Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more  at  https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-CR-00102.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
    

LAFAYETTE/SHREVEPORT - Zachary A. Keller, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Louisiana, and the FBI New Orleans Field Office, will host a press conference to announce the formation of Gator Task Force, a new initiative to combat violent crime and drug trafficking in North Louisiana.

The purpose of the Task Force is to surge resources alongside federal, state, and local partners, continue to proactively arrest violent criminals and fugitives, and increase the swift dismantling of violent gangs. Through this initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and FBI, with their law enforcement partners, seek to aggressively restore safety in our communities.  

WHEN: Monday, September 28, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.

WHERE: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana
300 Fannin Street, Suite 3201
Shreveport, Louisiana

MEDIA INSTRUCTIONS: •    Members of the media should check in on the first floor with Court Security. 
•    Weapons may need to be secured in the lockbox.
•    After checking in, proceed to the 3rd floor, check in at the front desk; proceed to library.
•    Parking is not designated.

The following officials are scheduled to speak: •    U.S. Attorney  Zachary A. Keller
•    Louisiana Governor Jeff Landry
•    FBI New Orleans SAC Jonathan Tapp
•    ATF SAC Joshua Jackson
•    Louisiana State Police Superintendent Colonel Frank Besson
•    Shreveport Police Chief Wayne Smith
•    Caddo Parish Sheriff Henry Whitehorn, Sr.
•    Caddo Parish District Attorney James Stewart

In addition to the agencies represented above, the following agencies also provide crucial assistance to operations initiated by the new Task Force:

    Louisiana Attorney General’s Office                
    Drug Enforcement Administration        
    Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office
    Homeland Security Investigations
    Louisiana Division of Probation & Parole

A link to FBI operational photos will be provided following the press conference.

###

Event Contact: Ginger Green
Ginger.Green@usdoj.gov
(318) 676-3617 (office)
(318) 614-5240 (cell)

Lesley Hill, Public Affairs - FBI
(504) 816-3274
Media.NewOrleans@fbi.gov

Public Affairs: U.S. Attorney's Office - WDLA
Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
(337) 262-6704

SHREVEPORT – On September 17, 2026, a federal criminal complaint was filed charging Tre'veon Jackson, 24, of Shreveport, with Carjacking with Serious Bodily Injury. Jackson was arrested by the United States Marshals Service in Marshall, Texas, and now faces federal charges in Shreveport. Jackson faces up to 25 years in federal prison for the charge.

“When dangerous offenders like Mr. Jackson escape from custody, it’s an all-hands-on-deck situation that requires federal, state, and local law enforcement working together to eliminate the threat. Our Office is proud to have sprung into action alongside our partners to bring federal charges against Mr. Jackson and coordinate with the United States Marshals Service, the FBI, and state and local partners to bring this offender back into custody,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This Office is grateful to all of our law enforcement partners, particularly the United States Marshals Service, for their exceptional diligence locating and apprehending Mr. Jackson. We look forward to seeing justice done in this case.”  

“We don’t want to get into the specifics of the capture, but I will say that the United States Marshals Service has the most talented men and women in law enforcement today,” said United States Marshal Brian H. Barber. “This is what we train for, and this is what we do. When we got the call that there was a fugitive, our investigators and deputies were in pursuit within minutes. There was no way Mr. Jackson was getting away with the United States Marshals Service looking for him.”  

According to court documents, on September 14, 2026, Jackson escaped from custody during a medical transport. Shortly after his escape, Jackson allegedly approached a man outside a hotel in Bossier City, violently assaulted him, and stole his vehicle. It is further alleged that Jackson then led law enforcement officers on a high-speed chase reaching speeds of over 110 miles per hour before crashing the vehicle and fleeing on foot. A multi-agency manhunt ensued, and Jackson remained at large for several days until he was finally located and arrested in Marshall. He is now in federal custody.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, the Bossier City Police Department, Marshall Police Department, Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, the Texas State Technical College Police Department, and the Texas Rangers investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allison Foster and Samuel Crichton, with assistance from Legal Assistant Emily Favrot.

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

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more at www.justice.gov/psn.

You find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 5:26-mj-00233-01.

CONTACT: Public Affairs: Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE – On September 18, 2026, United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Charles Lamar Williams, 31, of Ruston, to 208 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, followed by five years of supervised release, after his guilty plea on March 16, 2026.  

The same day, Judge Joseph sentenced Cameron Donnell Brown, 35, of Monroe, to 48 months in federal prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine, followed by five years of supervised release. His guilty plea was entered on June 18, 2026.

WILLIAMS

According to court documents, on August 16, 2025, Williams possessed a large quantity of controlled substances inside a Ford Fiesta parked at an apartment complex in Ruston. Agents recovered 161.139 grams of pure methamphetamine, 85 grams of cocaine, 11.692 grams of cocaine base, 11 units of hydrocodone, approximately 984 grams of marijuana, 148 grams of synthetic marijuana, 34 fluid units of promethazine, and several units of bromazolam. 

BROWN

According to court documents, on March 27, 2023, Brown visited a U.S. Post Office facility in Houston, Texas, and mailed a package containing over two kilograms of methamphetamine pills to individuals in Bastrop, Louisiana.  Records show Brown knew what the pills were when he mailed the package and knew they were intended for distribution.   

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcements. 

These cases were investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and United States Postal Service.

These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allison L. Duncan (Williams) and   William Gaskins (Brown), with assistance from Legal Assistant Ginger Green and Paralegal Specialist Stephanie Stewart.

This prosecution was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. 

Related court documents and information may be found under the following case numbers: 3:25-CR-00294-01 (Williams); and 3:25-CR-00206-02 (Brown). 

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
Cara Alexander: (337) 262-6704

ALEXANDRIA – On September 15, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards, Jr., sentenced Terrence D. Taylor, Jr., 28, of Alexandria, to 102 months in federal prison with six years of supervised release, after his guilty plea to Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. 

On the same day, Judge Edwards also sentenced Mikell Dewayne Boyd, 30, also of Alexandria, to 37 months in federal prison, with two years of supervised release, after his guilty plea to Possession of a Firearm or Ammunition by a Person Subject to a Domestic Violence Protective Order.

TAYLOR

Taylor, a previously convicted felon, was encountered by Louisiana Probation and Parole (LPP) and Louisiana State Police (LSP) on May 9, 2024, for arrest on outstanding warrants. During the arrest, officers saw marijuana in plain view inside his residence. Taylor admitted there was a backpack inside the residence containing methamphetamine and a Glock firearm. A search warrant was executed, and investigators recovered the backpack containing approximately 27.87 grams of methamphetamine—a distribution amount—and a loaded Glock Model 42 firearm that was later determined to be stolen. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), LPP, and LSP. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Daniel Siefker, Jr., with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

BOYD 

On March 31, 2025, Boyd was in possession of  a loaded Omni Hybrid .223 pistol and .223 ammunition. At the time he possessed the firearm and ammunition, Boyd was subject to a Louisiana domestic violence protective order which prohibited him from doing so. Boyd admitted the firearm and ammunition were in his possession despite the court order.

This case was investigated by the ATF and Alexandria Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas A. Johnson with assistance from Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcements.

These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Numbers 26-cr-00047 (Taylor) and 26-cr-00061 (Boyd).  

###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana             cara.alexander@usdoj.gov  www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
(337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE – On September 17, 2026, the University of Louisiana at Lafayette hosted a naturalization ceremony marking the end of a proud journey for candidates seeking United States citizenship, with United States District Judge David C. Joseph administering the Oath of Allegiance to two new United States citizens.

Judge Joseph opened the ceremony by welcoming the candidates and acknowledging the dedication shown by each applicant throughout the naturalization process. The ceremony then featured a moving performance of the Star-Spangled Banner by the UL Lafayette choir, followed by Judge Joseph’s introduction of U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller, who spoke briefly about the privileges and responsibilities of American citizenship.  Mr. Keller then introduced the candidates, asking them to individually stand and state their names and countries of origin. Mr. Keller then formally moved the Court to grant citizenship to each candidate.

Judge Joseph then administered the Oath of Allegiance, the defining moment of every naturalization ceremony. Candidates raised their right hands and recited the oath together — and officially became citizens of the United States on this Constitution Day.

Following the oath, Judge Joseph led the newly sworn citizens in the Pledge of Allegiance alongside other attendees. The ceremony concluded with Judge Joseph presenting each new citizen with a Certificate of Naturalization, marking their happy realization of a long-held dream: to become an American.   
 

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
 

LAKE CHARLES – On September 16, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Fernando Mejia, 36, of Mexico, residing in Leesville, with Possession of a Firearm by an Alien. Mejia faces up to 15 years in federal prison if convicted.

“Firearm possession by illegal aliens poses an unnecessary, unacceptable, and preventable danger, and this case presents the tragic consequences that can result,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Louisiana’s state, local, and federal law enforcement partners are actively investigating these matters when they arise, and this Office will continue to work with those law enforcement partners to vigorously enforce federal gun laws to protect our children and our communities.”

According to court documents, this investigation began when a child was accidentally shot inside a residence in Leesville on June 8, 2025. When law enforcement arrived on scene, their investigation found that Mejia had illegally acquired the weapon and was storing it in his residence when a child accessed the firearm and discharged it, striking another child. Subsequent investigation confirmed that Mejia is unlawfully present in the United States and prohibited from possessing firearms.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, United States Border Patrol, and the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.

An indictment and criminal complaint are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment.

 ###

 CONTACT:  Public Affairs: Cara.Alexander@usdoj.gov
 United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
 X: @USAO_WDLA
 Facebook: USAO_WDLA
 (337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE – On September 15, 2026, a federal criminal complaint was filed charging Josue Perez, 18, who had resided in Lafayette, with Possession of Child Pornography.  Perez, a Panamanian national and illegal alien, is currently in federal custody. He faces up to 20 years in federal prison. 

According to court documents, the investigation began on November 25, 2025, when the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) Cyber Crime Unit initiated an investigation based on a cybertip received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The cybertip was regarding the possession and distribution of child sexual abuse materials on an electronic communications platform. Subsequent police investigative work led to a search warrant at a residence occupied by Perez. A forensic analysis of these devices confirmed they contained child sexual abuse material. Some of the images and videos allegedly depict very young children and even infants. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the LBI Cyber Crime Unit, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica D. Cassidy and E. Ashley Hammons, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon and Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more  at  https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood.

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

An indictment and criminal complaint are merely allegations. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 26-mj-231.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE – On September 8, 2026, Chief United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced three defendants to federal prison in separate federal firearm cases.

Judge Doughty sentenced Jason C. Turner, 46, of Monroe, to 78 months in federal prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, followed by three years of supervised release.

Judge Doughty also sentenced Colten McClain, 31, of Pioneer, to 57 months in federal prison for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon followed by three years of supervised release.

Finally, Judge Doughty sentenced Zavion J. Hundley, 33, of Monroe, to 37 months in federal prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon followed by three years of supervised release.

All three men had previously pled guilty to their respective charges. 

“These sentences reflect our Office’s commitment through the Project Safe Neighborhoods Program to reducing violent crime in Northeast Louisiana by getting dangerous felons illegally possessing guns off our streets,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will continue working with our federal, state, and local partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute offenders who illegally possess firearms to make our communities safer in the Western District.”

TURNER

According to court documents, on November 4, 2024, Monroe Police Department (MPD) officers observed a verbal argument in the parking lot of a gas station on MLK Drive. When officers arrived, the defendant had already left in a white Ford Explorer. A witness informed officers that the vehicle was often seen at a nearby apartment complex. Officers located the Explorer and detained Turner. During the encounter, officers detected a strong odor of marijuana from the vehicle and conducted a search. They located a small amount of marijuana and a loaded SCCY CPX‑2 9mm pistol in the rear seat. The firearm matched witness descriptions from the gas station. Turner admitted possessing the firearm. ATF later confirmed the pistol was a functional weapon. Turner had a prior felony conviction and is prohibited from possessing firearms.

MCCLAIN

According to court documents, on August 25, 2025, a Louisiana State Police Trooper conducted a traffic stop on U.S. Highway 65 in Tallulah. McClain was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. The trooper observed a Diamondback AR‑15 rifle and .223 ammunition on the rear floorboard of the vehicle. Law enforcement later test‑fired the rifle and confirmed it was a functional weapon. McClain had prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms.

HUNDLEY

According to court documents, on October 21, 2025, deputies with the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) observed Hundley riding a bicycle in the dark and against the flow of traffic. When deputies attempted a traffic stop, Hundley fled into a ditch and then into a tree‑line area before running behind a nearby residence.  Deputies detained Hundley and conducted a lawful search. Deputies found a 9mm hollow‑point round in Hundley’s pocket. Nearby in the tree line, in the same location where Hundley had slowed during the pursuit, deputies located a tan Taurus G3 9mm pistol wrapped in a black face mask. Hundley is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

MPD, Louisiana State Police, OPSO, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated these cases.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement

These cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Frank Moody, Earl M. Campbell, and Allison Colomb Foster, with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart and Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under the relevant case numbers: 3:26‑cr‑00187‑01 (Turner); 3:26‑cr‑00090 (McClain); 26‑00140 (Hundley).

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
Cara Alexander: (337) 262-6704
 

LAFAYETTE – On September 10, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks sentenced Christopher Michael Ahlers, 54, of Abbeville, to 360 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty on May 11, 2026, to Production of Child Pornography. On the same day, Judge Hicks also sentenced Shannon David Miller, 52, of Broussard, to 97 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty on May 13, 2026, to Possession of Child Pornography.

“Partnering with state and federal law enforcement to investigate and prosecute child sex predators is one of this Office’s most sacred and core missions,”  said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “There is sadly no undoing the harm that this vile conduct causes, and the cases we prosecute unfortunately reach as far as minor children’s homes and schools, with people they trust preying upon them. But the case against Mr. Ahlers shows the same thing as other recent cases we’ve prosecuted against teachers, parents, and pastors: we will never relent in our effort to remove these predators from our society, and we will find them no matter where they are.”  

Ahlers

According to court documents, the investigation into Ahlers began on May 31, 2025, when deputies with the Vermilion Parish Sheriff’s Office (VPSO) were contacted by Ahlers’s wife, who had discovered a concealed recording device in the ceiling of a bathroom inside their residence. The device contained multiple recordings of her two minor children. Ahlers was arrested on June 4, 2025, on related state charges. After being released on bond, evidence showed Ahlers attempted to hide additional evidence by asking an acquaintance to hold an external hard drive for him.  Instead, the acquaintance turned the device over to law enforcement at which time investigators discovered approximately 90 illicit videos involving one of Ahlers’s minor stepchildren. Investigators determined that Ahlers had retained these recordings for several years.

Miller

According to court documents, Miller became known to federal authorities in October 2025 when the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) issued a cybertip regarding the possible possession and distribution of illegal child‑exploitation material linked to a Google account. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) identified Miller as the user associated with the  uploads. Investigators reviewed two videos referenced in the cybertip and discovered they contained illicit content. Agents then obtained a search warrant for Miller’s residence at which time multiple digital devices were seized. Forensic examiners identified more than 1,000 graphic videos involving prepubescent children. Miller admitted he had been accessing illegal content for approximately 20 years and possessed roughly 100 gigabytes of illicit video files stored on several devices.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

HSI, LBI, and VPSO conducted the investigations. The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Bordelon with assistance from Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.  Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more  at  https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood.

You may find a copy of this press releases (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Numbers 6:25 cr 00255 (Ahlers) and 6:25 cr 00317 (Miller).

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

SHREVEPORT – On September 9, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Bridget Johnson, 53, of Cotton Valley, with Fraudulent Voter Registration and Voting by an Alien, and Michael Wedderburn, 52, of Jamaica, with Voting by an Alien. If convicted, Johnson faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison and Wedderburn faces a maximum penalty of one year, along with additional financial penalties.

“Protecting the integrity of Louisiana’s elections—and our national elections—is essential to protecting our constitutional republic,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “The right to vote is sacred. When individuals undermine that process through fraud or abuse, they threaten the public’s confidence in a fair and lawful election system. Our Office will continue to safeguard the sanctity of the vote and hold accountable those who violate our laws.”

According to court documents, Johnson was a resident of Webster Parish and a candidate in the 2024 election for mayor of Cotton Valley. Wedderburn is a non‑citizen alien in the United States and was ineligible to vote in Louisiana elections.

On July 14, 2024, Johnson allegedly completed and electronically submitted a Louisiana voter registration application in Wedderburn’s name, falsely stating that he was a United States citizen. The indictment also alleges that Wedderburn went on to vote illegally in the November 5, 2024, election for a federal office, and in the Cotton Valley mayoral race.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case with assistance from the Louisiana Secretary of State’s Office.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth D. Reeg and Alexandra Porubsky with assistance from Legal Assistant Ginger Green.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE – On September 1, 2026, United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Earl Thompson, a.k.a. “Nook,” 45, of Leesville, to 174 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine with five years of supervised release after serving his sentence. Thompson had previously pled guilty.

“Traffickers of methamphetamine and fentanyl have no place in our society, and justice demands punishment that reflects their total disregard of the lives, the families, and the communities that they devastate,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “With our state and federal partners, this Office will continue to use every tool available to investigate, prosecute, and dismantle these criminal organizations that poison our neighborhoods with illegal narcotics.”

In 2024, federal, state, and local agencies launched an investigation into a multi parish narcotics trafficking organization operating throughout Vernon Parish and Central Louisiana. Eleven defendants were indicted on January 21, 2026, for their involvement in a drug network responsible for moving large amounts of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. Thompson played a significant role in the conspirators’ distribution activities. According to court documents, between July 11, 2025, and November 2, 2025, Thompson entered into a conspiracy with 12 others to obtain distribution-level quantities of methamphetamine for resale in and around Vernon Parish. Further investigation revealed that on July 25, 2025, one of Thompson’s co-conspirators delivered ten pounds of methamphetamine to him. Thompson eventually admitted that all methamphetamine involved in the conspiracy was intended for distribution.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Attorney’s Office, the United States Forest Service, and the United States Army Criminal Investigations Division.

It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy, with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole of government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26-CR-00027-05.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

MONROE – On September 10, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Randy Allen Powell, 46, of Downsville, with Receipt of Child Pornography and Possession of Child Pornography. As a re-offender, Powell faces an enhanced sentence if convicted of all charges that carries a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to a combined 60 years in federal prison. He was previously convicted of receiving child pornography in 2014, which led to a sentence of 15 years in federal prison and four years of supervised release. Powell was serving his term of federal supervision at the time of this alleged offense.

“As alleged, Powell’s receipt of child pornography while knowing he was being supervised by federal probation officers displays a level of desperate perversion that should concern every member of our community,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Protecting our children is the most sacred and urgent duty that this Office and our federal and state partners perform every single day. We will aggressively investigate and prosecute recidivist offenders, seeking federal prison sentences that reflect the need to deter this sick conduct and protect the public.”

As alleged in the indictment, Powell possessed child pornography on April 2, 2026, after having received it from between March 21 and 23 of 2026. Property subject to forfeiture as a result of the offense include a laptop, flash drive, smartphone, and tablet.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Probation Office investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amy Miller, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Stephanie Stewart.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.  Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more  at  https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is currently pending assignment.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
Cara Alexander: (337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE – On September 9, 2026, United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays sentenced Katherine Albarado, 32, of Morgan City, to 60 months in federal prison for attempted possession of child pornography.  Albarado had previously pled guilty to the charge.

“Predators—and especially people in positions of trust—who abuse our children have nowhere to hide in this District,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We urge parents to remain vigilant and aware of their children’s digital and online communications, and this Office, along with our state and federal partners, will continue to investigate and prosecute those who exploit children for perverse, sexual purposes.”

According to court documents, in May 2022, Albarado was employed as a teacher at Morgan City High School. During this period, Albarado used a personal email account to initiate and continue email communications with a student whom Albarado knew to be 16 years old. The messages were aimed at enticing the student into illegal sexual contact. They were extremely graphic and included a request for the minor victim to send sexually explicit images of himself to her.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Morgan City Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren L. Nickel with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice.  Led by the U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), PSC marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. Learn more  at  https://www.justice.gov/psc/about-project-safe-childhood.
  
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-cr-00355-01.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

LAFAYETTE – On September 8, 2026, Micah James Legnon, 29, of New Iberia, pled guilty in federal court to Conspiracy to Provide Material Support to Terrorists, in violation of Title 18, Section 2339A(a)(1) of the United States Code. His sentencing and the plea agreement’s formal acceptance before United States District Court Judge David C. Joseph is scheduled for December 11, 2026, at 2pm.

“Today’s guilty plea reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s actions and our Office’s commitment to stopping terroristic threats in their tracks—before they can cause harm,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We are committed to protecting Louisiana citizens from these dangerous actors, and, along with our state and federal law enforcement partners, will hold accountable those who support vicious acts of terrorism and endanger innocent lives.”

“As we know in Louisiana from terrible experience, the threat from home-grown terrorists is real,” said Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) New Orleans Field Office.  “The FBI is extremely grateful for the quick and decisive actions of our partners at the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office to interdict this threat and to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for its determination and resolve to prosecute this case. FBI New Orleans is working closely every day with our partners here in Louisiana and across the world to keep the people of this state free from terrorist violence.”

According to court documents, Legnon is a former U.S. Marine and former New Iberia police officer. In early 2025, Legnon joined the “Order of the Black Lotus,” a faction of the Turtle Island Liberation Front. Court filings describe the group as a radical, anti-government faction that used encrypted messaging to coordinate plans for explosive attacks. Members also discussed ways to build improvised explosive devices (IEDs) and use them in a specific, planned attack on a logistics facility in California.

Digital communication records showed that Legnon joined the group with full understanding of its purpose and agreed to use his military tactical experience to advance the planned attack. Throughout 2025, he talked with members about making IEDs and saved a photo of an explosive device with instructions on his phone. Legnon also offered to train others in urban tactics, target accuracy, and combat shooting. To this end, he downloaded and stored extensive combat-related guides, including material related to close-range combat, land navigation, patrolling, ambush tactics, and demolition. Legnon was further found to have kept assault rifles, SWAT and sniper training manuals, and other combat-related items at his home.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The case was investigated by the FBI with valuable assistance from the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office.

The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Nickel, with assistance from Executive Assistant Joanne-Henry Mills and Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

This case is part of the nationwide National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 initiative, which is a White House-directed, interagency effort to integrate federal, state, and local partners in protecting First Amendment rights while targeting individuals and organizations engaged in political violence and is led by the investigative and prosecutorial Joint Task Force Vanguard.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26-CR-00198.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
Cara Alexander: (337) 262-6704

SHREVEPORT – On August 24, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. sentenced Jacob L. Weaver, 25, of Keithville, to 72 months in federal prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm with Ammunition after his April 28, 2026, guilty plea.

According to court documents, on July 25, 2025, Shreveport Police Department (SPD) officers responded to an alert regarding a stolen gray Kia traveling eastbound on Kings Highway. Officers attempted a traffic stop, but the vehicle fled at high speeds through several residential areas before crashing into a soccer goal on the campus of a local school. Weaver, along with two other occupants, fled on foot. After a brief pursuit, Weaver was tased and detained. Inside the stolen Kia, officers found a backpack in the back seat containing a loaded pistol, which had been reported stolen in 2020. In recorded jail calls, Weaver admitted to being a backseat passenger in the vehicle, acknowledged procuring the firearm, and admitted he was a convicted felon prohibited from possessing it.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

(SPD) investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison Foster with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
    
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 26-00007.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

MONROE – On August 31, 2026, Anthony Dillon, Jr., 19, of Columbia, Louisiana, pled guilty in federal court to committing arson in connection with the malicious burning of St. John Chapel in the early morning of March 27, 2026, right as Holy Week was set to begin.  Dillon faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in federal prison. 

“Today’s guilty plea represents another step toward our Office seeking justice for the wanton and brazen burning of St. John Chapel, the sole Catholic church in Caldwell Parish,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This case reflects our Office’s commitment to working alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners to protect and serve our rural communities, and we look forward to seeing this matter to its conclusion."

According to court documents, Dillon and an accomplice entered St. John Chapel intending to steal electronic equipment, including multiple television sets. After stealing several televisions from inside the church, the two ignited a fire in the administrative area of the building, using a fire accelerant within a wooden filing cabinet. A fire-accelerant canine unit alerted at the point of origin, and forensic testing confirmed the presence of an accelerant there. The fire caused extensive damage to the church’s sanctuary. 

In the wake of the arson, parishioners have continued worship by holding weekly Masses at a local clinic. The community also established a restoration fund to help rebuild their church.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Louisiana State Fire Marshal, the Caldwell Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller with assistance from Special Assistant U.S. Attorney S. Charlotte Farshian and Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 3:26-CR-00159-01.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

MONROE – On August 26, 2026, following a three-day trial before Chief United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty, a federal jury found Carson McKoin, 23, of Monroe, guilty of assaulting, resisting, or impeding federal wildlife agents. McKoin faces up to 20 years in federal prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Sentencing is scheduled for December 2, 2026.

“Louisiana, long known as ‘Sportsman’s Paradise,’ is blessed with one of the richest outdoor traditions in the country,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “But that tradition only succeeds when hunters exercise due care and responsibility with firearms.  Reckless actions put lives at risk and are taken very seriously.”

According to evidence presented at trial, McKoin was hunting with a group of young men on January 19, 2024, when he believed other hunters were encroaching on the duck hole his group claimed. Hearing a boat approaching, McKoin fired a shot toward what he thought were incoming hunters. The individuals approaching were actually federal fish and wildlife agents performing their official duties. When confronted, McKoin admitted firing the shot but claimed it was simply a “signal shot,” a statement at odds with the agents’ belief that he had intentionally fired at them.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service – Division of Refuge Law Enforcement (USFWS-DRLE), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case.

It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Vermaelen, William Gaskins, and Robert Moody, with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 25-cr-00025.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

ALEXANDRIA – On August 19, 2026, a federal grand jury returned a superseding indictment charging Cartez Dotson, 39, of Alexandria, with Possessing a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute, Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, and two counts of Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon. Dotson faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years and up to life in federal prison.

The indictment alleges that on January 14, 2026, Dotson knowingly possessed a controlled substance, including five grams or more of methamphetamine and an additional fifty grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine, with intent to distribute. Dotson was also allegedly found in possession of two pistols and ammunition, with the indictment further alleging that he carried a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Court records show that Dotson has prior qualifying convictions that subject him to enhanced penalties under the Armed Career Criminal Act, including three prior serious drug or violent felonies committed on separate occasions.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI) and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren L. Nickel with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.

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

This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. 

The case number for this matter is 1:26-CR-00209.

###

CONTACT:

Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

ALEXANDRIA – On August 21, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards Jr. sentenced Sheldon Doral Franklin, 33, of Alexandria, to over four years in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release, after his April 17, 2026, guilty plea to Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

“This defendant recklessly used a 10-year-old child to hide a fully automatic weapon and then ran from law enforcement to escape the consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Machinegun conversion devices are extremely dangerous, and our Office will continue to hold accountable those who endanger children, community members, and police officers by illegally possessing these dangerous weapons.”

According to court documents, the investigation began on March 23, 2024, when a Pineville Police Department (PPD) officer monitoring a license plate reader alert system received an alert for a stolen maroon Nissan Sentra reported out of Opelousas. The officer quickly located the Sentra traveling southbound on U.S. Highway 167. When the officer attempted to initiate a traffic stop, the vehicle continued driving until the police siren was activated. Additional officers arrived and ordered Franklin, the driver and a convicted felon, out of the car. Franklin initially refused commands to keep his hands in view but eventually complied and was handcuffed. When questioned, Franklin identified the passenger as his 10-year-old child.  Franklin then claimed he was unaware the vehicle had been stolen, stating it had been loaned to him by his girlfriend. When officers informed Franklin that they needed to search his child, he refused to give permission. The child also refused commands and kept a bag of chips pressed against his leg. As an officer attempted to move the child's arms, he felt what appeared to be a handgun concealed between the chip bag and the child's leg. Franklin then fled on foot but was quickly apprehended by law enforcement. Officers recovered the weapon, a loaded Glock Model 23, .40-caliber pistol equipped with a Machine Gun Conversion Device (MCD), also known as a switch, making the firearm fully automatic.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and PPD investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F.  Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 1:25-cr-00235-01.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
 

SHREVEPORT - On August 20, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks sentenced Jaquez Anthony Flakes, 21, of Natchitoches, to 235 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. Flakes was convicted at trial on March 24, 2026.  

“Methamphetamine continues to tear through our Louisiana communities, leaving families shattered and lives ruined,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Dismantling this 11-member conspiracy and holding them accountable for their crimes reflects our Office’s commitment, alongside our federal and state partners, to invest the resources necessary for investigating and prosecuting drug traffickers across our rural and urban communities.”

This sentencing marks the final defendant brought to justice in an eleven-person drug trafficking network dismantled through a years-long investigation. Flakes's involvement came to light during a traffic stop on August 16, 2024, near the Louisiana-Texas state line. Louisiana State Police (LSP) attempted to pull over a vehicle driven by co-conspirator Daniel Efferson. Efferson, Flakes, and co-conspirator Perry Willis fled the scene. This led to a vehicle chase that ended in a crash. Officers recovered approximately nine kilograms of methamphetamine and twenty-four pounds of synthetic marijuana from the vehicle. This incident was the primary catalyst for a broader federal investigation.

Subsequent investigations in Houston uncovered the massive scale of the trafficking network: agents seized 221.5 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine disguised as bottled water and located a meth conversion lab equipped with burners, pots, and an additional 11 kilograms of processed methamphetamine. Evidence recovered connected Flakes to the same distribution pipeline supplying Willis, Efferson, and eight other members of the conspiracy.

With Flakes sentenced, all eleven defendants have been held accountable. Previously sentenced co-conspirators are as follows:

Daniel Efferson,  of Natchitoches – 360 months (30 years)
Christopher Caffey, of Shreveport – 262 months (over 21 years)
Joshua Hardy, of Shreveport – 151 months (over 12 years)
Delannie Lee, of Shreveport – 168 months (14 years)
Crystal Williams, of Mansfield – 60 months (5 years)
Kellie Yates, of Shreveport – 3 years' probation
Amadeo Penaloza-Meza, of Mexico – 135 months (over 11 years)
Brayan Sandoval, of Mexico – 135 months (over 11 years)
Jeffrey Flack, of Shreveport – 120 months (10 years)
Perry Willis, of Natchitoches – 292 months (over 24 years)

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

According to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Mexican cartels continue to flood the United States with high purity, highly potent methamphetamine. In Louisiana, officials warn that meth remains a serious statewide threat: stimulant related overdose deaths still account for 26.5% of all drug involved fatalities and rural communities have seen rising mortality as meth supplies are increasingly laced with deadly fentanyl.

LSP and DEA investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorneys Robert Moody and Earl M. Campbell with assistance from Legal Assistants Amanda Morgan and Stephanie Stewart.

A copy of this press release (and future updates) can be found on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the District Court's website at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Number 5:24-CR-00256-10.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
 

On Friday, August 21, 2026, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller of the Western District of Louisiana will join Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and community partners in observing National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day, joining communities across Louisiana and the country working to confront the deadliest drug crisis in U.S. history. The day is dedicated to educating the public about the dangers of illicit fentanyl and honoring the lives lost to fentanyl poisoning and overdose.

“Fentanyl’s horrific effect on our communities, our families, and our friends demands that we continue increasing awareness of the threat it poses while doing everything we can to eliminate it from our society,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “It is a time for reflecting upon the harm fentanyl has caused and our need to continue the fight against it. The U.S. Attorney’s Office stands alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners in combatting this poison and dismantling the groups that peddle it in our streets. ”

Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid approximately 50 times more potent than heroin and 100 times more potent than morphine. It is inexpensive, widely available, highly addictive, and distributed in a variety of forms.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 70,000 Americans died from drug overdose or poisoning in 2025. While early provisional statistics for 2026 show an encouraging decrease in mortality, fentanyl remains the leading cause of accidental drug overdose deaths in the United States.

Fentanyl trafficking is central to this serious public safety crisis. Traffickers frequently mix fentanyl with other drugs to increase addiction and profits, often without a user’s knowledge.

Just 2 milligrams of fentanyl—an amount smaller than a grain of salt—can be lethal.

National Fentanyl Prevention and Awareness Day is an urgent call to action for individuals, families, schools, businesses, and community organizations to:

• Share information about the dangers of fentanyl, fentanyl trafficking, and counterfeit pills in schools, youth associations, faith-based organizations, and other community groups. 

• Promote fentanyl education and informed decision‑making.

• Encourage access to overdose response resources, including naloxone.

• Support individuals and families affected by substance use disorders.

• Participate in local awareness events and community outreach efforts.

So far in 2026, DEA has seized more than 21 million fentanyl pills and 9,970 pounds of fentanyl powder, amounting to about 239 million deadly doses. In 2025, DEA seized over 47 million fentanyl pills and nearly 10,000 pounds of fentanyl powder—about 369 million potentially deadly doses — kept out of American communities.  

Information and free educational resources, including the One Pill Can Kill partner toolkit and youth conversation guides, are available at DEA.gov/onepill. Louisiana citizens are encouraged to learn as much as possible about this deadly scourge and how to defend against it.

Families may also submit photographs for the Faces of Fentanyl memorial exhibit at www.dea.gov/facesoffentanyl.

By raising awareness, strengthening education, and supporting affected families, communities can help save lives and confront the ongoing fentanyl crisis.

Resources:

DEA Fentanyl Awareness: https://www.dea.gov/fentanylawareness
Prevention Toolkits: https://www.cdc.gov/overdose-prevention/php/toolkits/fentanyl-prevention-awareness-day.html

###
    
CONTACT:

Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

MONROE – On August 11, 2026, a federal jury found Donald Kelly, 44, of West Monroe, guilty of Distribution of Methamphetamine; Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine; Possession of Firearms by a Prohibited Person; and Possession of Firearms in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime after a two-day trial.  Kelly faces a sentence of up to life imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for November 10, 2026.

According to court records, Kelly had a prior federal Possession with Intent to Distribute crack cocaine conviction.  Evidence presented at trial showed that Kelly was a Monroe-area drug trafficker who sold 112 grams of meth to a confidential source in an undercover buy. The day after the buy, agents executed a search warrant on Kelly’s residence, where they found two baggies of Methamphetamine floating in the toilet as well as two handguns and $23,700 in cash. Kelly claimed that he was a user, not a seller, despite the fact that he had no pipes or syringes in his residence. 

Prosecutors anticipated that Kelly would attempt to make an entrapment defense; they asked the court before trial to require the defense to present evidence supporting that claim. The Court granted the motion, eliminating Kelly’s use of that defense due to his inability to provide any basis for it.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Metro Narcotics Unit of Ouachita Parish, the Monroe Police Department (MPD), and Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office (OPSO) investigated this case.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Gaskins and Amy Miller with assistance from Legal Assistants Emily Favrot, Stephanie Stewart, and Amanda Morgan.

This prosecution was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 3:25‑cr‑00082‑01.

###

CONTACT:

Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

MONROE / ALEXANDRIA – Defendants from West Monroe and Alexandria have been sentenced in separate cases involving drug trafficking and firearm offenses.

On July 29, 2026, United States Chief District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Eaan Lee Blake, 24, of West Monroe, to 10 years in federal prison after his conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Marijuana. Blake had previously pled guilty to the charge.

According to court documents, on February 16, 2025, a Portland, Arkansas, Police Officer attempted to stop a white Chevrolet Trailblazer traveling 55 mph in a 35-mph zone. The driver, later identified as Blake, initially pulled over, but then fled the scene, leading officers on a pursuit from Arkansas into Louisiana. Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) deputies deployed spike strips, stopping the vehicle on U.S. Highway 165 in Bastrop, Louisiana, over 40 miles from the initial stop.

Blake, the sole occupant of the vehicle, admitted that the car was “filled with dope.” A search of the vehicle uncovered multiple suitcases containing approximately 75 pounds of methamphetamine and nine pounds of marijuana, along with hydrocodone/acetaminophen tablets, a vacuum sealing machine, hotel receipts from California and Arizona bearing Blake’s name, and $713 in U.S. currency.

The Portland Police Department (PPD) and the Morehouse Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO) investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert F. Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.

On August 6, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards, Jr., sentenced Johnathan Casey Baker, 32, of Alexandria, to over six years in federal prison followed by two years of supervised release for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon.  Baker had also pled guilty to the charge.

According to court documents, on October 3, 2025, the Alexandria Police Department (APD) conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Baker, the sole occupant. Officers observed a Smith & Wesson M&P .22-caliber rifle in plain view inside the vehicle. After obtaining a search warrant, investigators recovered the firearm. Baker, a previously convicted felon, was prohibited from possessing firearms. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF) later confirmed the rifle was capable of firing a bullet by the action of an explosive.  

APD and ATF investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey N. Stelly with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.

This case was investigated as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Numbers  3:25-cr-00065-01 (Eaan Lee Blake) and 1:26-cr-00018-01 (Johnathan Casey Baker).

###

CONTACT:

Public Affairs: USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office: www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
X: @USAO_WDLA
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704

LAKE CHARLES – On August 4, 2026, United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr., sentenced John Gueringer, 51, of Oakdale, to 36 months in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release after pleading guilty to Impersonating a Federal Officer.

“Impersonating a federal agent is a serious crime. It undermines public trust, confuses citizens, and endangers both the public and law enforcement,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This sentence reflects our commitment to protecting the integrity of federal agencies and holding accountable those who illegally and recklessly assume the identify of a United States federal agent.”

According to court documents, on July 22, 2024, officers with the Oakdale Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance at a residence in Oakdale.  As officers arrived, they encountered a visibly upset woman who had multiple scratch marks on her body. When officers approached the residence, Gueringer met them under the carport wearing a lanyard containing what appeared to be an authentic Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) badge.  Gueringer repeatedly identified himself as a federal agent, and instructed officers to call the DEA, attempting to block their investigation and avoid arrest.

Investigators later confirmed that Gueringer had no affiliation with the DEA and that he used the impersonation in an effort to deceive responding officers and interfere with their investigation. Gueringer admitted he acted with intent to mislead law enforcement.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Oakdale Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case.  It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.

A copy of this press release (and any updates) may be found on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 2:25-cr-00362.

###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Facebook: USAO_WDLA
X: USAO_WDLA
(337) 262-6704
    

ALEXANDRIA – On August 4, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards, Jr., sentenced Dequavious Wagner, 32, of Alexandria, to 270 months in federal prison after he pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking. He also received five years of supervised release after his sentence is served. 

According to court records, in early May 2025, the Rapids Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) was investigating Wagner for illegal drug trafficking. As part of that investigation, RPSO identified a white Ram 2500 as a vehicle being used by Wagner. On May 6, 2025, RPSO deputies conducted a traffic stop of Wagner in the Ram 2500. The stop led to a search of the vehicle, resulting in the discovery of an aftermarket compartment welded to the undercarriage of the truck. Inside the compartment were more than 100 pounds of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl pills, and marijuana.

RPSO deputies later executed a search warrant at Wagner’s residence in Alexandria. Inside his bedroom, deputies located approximately four pounds of fentanyl, one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine, and a loaded pistol. Laboratory testing confirmed the substances as fentanyl and methamphetamine. Wagner admitted he possessed the drugs with intent to distribute, and that he possessed the loaded firearm as part of his drug-trafficking activities.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and RPSO investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Cassidy with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.

This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 26-00165.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
 

ALEXANDRIA – On August 5, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Edward Joseph Sieja, 47, of Alexandria, with multiple counts of Concealing Assets in Bankruptcy Filings, Making False Statements Under Penalty of Perjury, and Perjury. Sieja faces up to 35 years in federal prison if convicted on all counts.

“Bankruptcy laws are meant to provide honest, good-faith debtors a fresh start—not to be exploited by those who seek to hide assets and deceive the court,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will aggressively pursue individuals who attempt to abuse and manipulate our bankruptcy system for personal gain.”

According to court documents, Sieja filed a Chapter 7 bankruptcy petition on August 24, 2021, seeking a discharge of more than $3.5 million in debt. The indictment alleges that before and during the bankruptcy process, Sieja concealed the transfer and purchase of multiple properties in Alexandria using undisclosed commission income from construction contracts he performed for Louisiana companies. These properties were purchased in the name of another individual, but Sieja allegedly arranged the transactions, provided the funds, and did not disclose any of them to the bankruptcy court. The indictment further alleges that Sieja failed to disclose significant assets and income, including bank accounts at two financial institutions, over $1 million in gross income, various other business interests, and the donation of a vehicle valued at $28,000.

Despite these omissions, Sieja allegedly declared under penalty of perjury that his filings were true and correct and then reaffirmed those statements under oath. The indictment charges that these actions demonstrate a deliberate effort to deceive the bankruptcy trustee, conceal assets from creditors, and unlawfully obtain a bankruptcy discharge.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Trustee Program (USTP), and IRS – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Earl M. Campbell and Amy J. Miller with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 1:26‑cr‑00313‑01.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA

LAFAYETTE – On August 6, 2026, United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr., sentenced Raylin Richard, 46, of Rayne, to 46 months in federal prison for Interstate Communication with Threat to Injure, to run consecutive to a 17-year sentence he is currently serving.

“Today’s age of social media, text messaging, and other forms of instant communication present a danger in the form of predators like this defendant using those means to terrorize and re-traumatize their victims, and this Office is committed to investigating and prosecuting that conduct alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of this defendant’s conduct—a convicted sex offender terrorizing his former victims—and the fact that our community simply will not tolerate it.”

According to court documents, Richard is currently serving a 17-year sentence for a prior child‑exploitation offense that involved secretly filming a 12-year-old girl, the daughter of his former romantic partner. After that conviction, the former partner secured a lifetime protective order against Richard and moved with her family to another state. 

While housed at Oakdale Federal Correctional Institution in Louisiana, Richard used a contraband cellphone to send threatening social‑media messages to the woman, which included threatening statements and photos of her new residence. A forensic review of the seized cellphone confirmed Richard’s access to the accounts used to send the threats. Investigators also found messages between Richard and a former cellmate which proved Richard’s anger toward the victim, and which corroborated his involvement in the hostile communications. In the messages, Richard threatened bodily harm to the woman if she ever reported him to the police again.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, personnel at Oakdale Federal Correctional Institution, and law enforcement officials in the state where the victim moved. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elliott Cade Cassidy and Myers P. Namie, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 2:25-cr-00318.

###

Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
 

SHREVEPORT – On August 4, 2026, United States Chief District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Bob Gilbert, Jr., 44, of Columbia, Louisiana, to 288 months in federal prison after his guilty plea for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, followed by eight years of supervised release.

According to court documents, on May 31, 2024, deputies with the Ouachita Parish Sheriff's Office (OPSO) conducted a lawful traffic stop of a Nissan Maxima on Sandal Street in Bawcomville. Gilbert was the driver and sole occupant of the vehicle. During the stop, deputies searched the car and located approximately 46 grams of pure methamphetamine in the driver's side door panel. Deputies also found a digital scale and approximately $3,200 in cash inside the vehicle, along with approximately $1,171 on Gilbert's person. Gilbert admitted he possessed the methamphetamine and that he had previously been convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and sentenced to seven years.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and OPSO. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charlotte Farshian and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Cassidy, with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.

This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 3:25-cr-00026-01.

###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA    
 

LAFAYETTE – On June 17, 2026, a federal indictment was returned against Rininski Edwards, 33, of Bunkie. Edwards is charged with Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon as an Armed Career Criminal, and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug-Trafficking Crime. Edwards faces decades of mandatory minimum sentences in federal prison if convicted of all charges.

“This Administration has made clear that drug traffickers and armed criminals have no place in our communities, and our Office will aggressively pursue and prosecute these offenders to get them off our streets,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This Office looks forward to seeing justice done in this case, with a sentence that is commensurate to the crime and criminal history of this alleged offender.”

According to court documents, on March 31, 2026, Edwards is alleged to have possessed 500 grams or more of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute those drugs and a loaded .45 caliber pistol in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. It is further alleged that Edwards possessed that loaded .45 caliber pistol after having been convicted three separate times of drug trafficking or violent felonies, which renders him an Armed Career Criminal under the law. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Louisiana State Police investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney E. Ashley Hammons with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

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

This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:26-cr-00250.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA

ALEXANDRIA/LAFAYETTE – On August 5, 2026, a press conference was held at the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office to discuss the return of the federal indictment against Clarence A. Frazier, 48, of Alexandria, who is charged with the murder of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson and the attempted murder of a U.S. Marshals Service task force officer, along with related firearm crimes. Frazier faces up to life imprisonment or death if convicted. This indictment returned by a federal grand jury follows the U.S. Attorney’s Office charging Frazier by criminal complaint with the murder of Deputy Marshal Hanson. 

During the press conference, U.S. Marshal Brian H. Barber, Rapides Parish Sheriff Mark Wood, FBI Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp, and Rapides Parish District Attorney Phillip Terrell also delivered remarks honoring the life, service, and sacrifice of Deputy Marshal Hanson. Also in attendance were representatives of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Louisiana State Police, and the Alexandria Police Department.

According to court documents, Deputy Marshal Hanson was murdered on July 14, 2026, while performing his official duties alongside federal and state law enforcement personnel attempting to apprehend Frazier following his failure to appear in state court on a sexual battery charge. Officers from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service approached Frazier’s residence to execute lawful warrants. Upon the officers’ entry, Frazier allegedly barricaded himself in a bedroom and opened fire, fatally striking Deputy Marshal Hanson and endangering additional officers on the scene. Hanson was a husband and father of two. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The United States Marshals Service, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Rapides Parish District Attorney’s Office investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Vermaelen, John W. Nickel, and Elliott Cassidy with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Joanne Henry‑Mills and Denise Duhon. 

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:26‑cr‑00293-01.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
 

LAFAYETTE – On July 29, 2026, United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr., sentenced Thaddaeus W. Paul, 33, of Lafayette, to 96 months in federal prison after his conviction for Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

According to court documents, Lafayette Police Department (LPD) officers conducted a lawful traffic stop on January 23, 2025, on a vehicle in which Paul was a passenger. Officers located Paul in the backseat in possession of a satchel bag containing a loaded semiautomatic SCCY CPX‑2 9mm pistol, crack cocaine and marijuana. Paul admitted to knowingly possessing the firearm and ammunition after having been convicted of a prior felony offense punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year. Federal law prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey N. Stelly with assistance from Paralegal Specialists Stephanie Stewart and Tanya Broussard.

This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25-cr-00328.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA

LAFAYETTE – On July 31, 2026, Brooke Miller Duck (formerly “Brooke Miller Tauzin”), 31, a former resident of Arnaudville, was sentenced by United States District Judge Robert R. Summerhays to 22 months in federal prison and 3 years of supervised release. She was also ordered to pay $539,451.41 in restitution. Duck previously pled guilty on March 16, 2026, to embezzling more than $500,000 from her medical clinic employer and using the stolen funds for personal expenses and luxury items that included expensive vacations, new cars, and fancy consumer products.

“Brooke Duck has now been held fully accountable for years of abusing her position and exploiting her employers’ trust,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “With this sentence, justice has been delivered not only for the clinics she stole from, but for all honest, hardworking small businesses across Louisiana. Our Office remains committed to protecting those businesses and prosecuting anyone who seeks to take advantage of them.”

According to court documents, Duck was employed by two medical clinics with offices in Lafayette and Baton Rouge and had access to the clinics’ credit cards and bank accounts. Between May 2020 and October 2023, Duck used the clinics’ credit cards for unauthorized personal purchases, including a $15,000 payment for a time-share vacation property. She then used funds drawn from the clinics’ bank accounts to pay the credit card balances associated with those purchases. In total, Duck caused $539,451.41 in unauthorized credit card transactions for her personal use and financial gain.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Lafayette Police Department investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Danny Siefker with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26-cr-00096.
    
###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
 

LAKE CHARLES – On July 30, 2026, United States District James D. Cain, Jr., sentenced Victor Hugo Rocha-Romero, 36, of Mexico, residing in Lake Charles, to over a year in federal prison after his July 2026 guilty plea to Assaulting, Resisting, or Impeding Certain Officers or Employees. 

According to court documents, Rocha-Romero had previously been issued a final Order of Removal from the United States. On June 30, 2025, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents located him in Lake Charles, Louisiana, to execute the order so that Rocha-Romero could be deported. Agents identified Rocha-Romero at a gas station, where he initially cooperated. As agents attempted to place him in restraints, Rocha- Romero attempted to flee to avoid deportation. In the course of this escape attempt, he made physical contact with an agent, causing abrasions and damage to the agent’s clothing.  Rocha-Romero was immediately restrained and later admitted to resisting, impeding, and interfering with the agents. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

Homeland Security Investigations investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott Cassidy and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Myers Namie with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 2:25 CR 00190 01.

 ###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
 

LAFAYETTE – On July 15, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Felicia Young, 58, of Lafayette, and Leisa Fuselier, 59, a citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, and a lawful permanent resident of the United States, with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Wire Fraud. Young was additionally charged with Obstruction of Justice. Young and Fuselier both face up to 20 years imprisonment.

“Protecting the public from financial predators is a top priority for this Office,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “These defendants allegedly exploited trust, manipulated victims, and abused financial systems for personal gain. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those who defraud and harm hard-working members of our community.”

According to court documents and evidence presented in court, Young orchestrated a fraud scheme beginning in March 2020 that lasted several years. She allegedly gained the trust of her victims through legitimate business dealings using several companies she owned, including ALA Floral 2, Kreole Ala 2, Johnston Street Drive-Thru, and F&B Rentals. After building a relationship with her victims, Young started the scam by asking them to lend her money.

Once victims provided funds, Young allegedly claimed her bank accounts were “frozen” and requested additional deposits to unlock the accounts in order to “repay them.” To keep the scheme going, Young initiated three-way calls between herself, the victims, and Fuselier. During these calls, Fuselier falsely posed as a representative of Young’s financial institution and confirmed Young’s lies to her victims that her accounts were frozen due to an outstanding debt. The co-conspirators allegedly instructed the victims that the accounts could only be accessed if they deposited specific amounts of money by a certain day and time.

Because of these false representations, victims paid at least $1.5 million to Young through CashApp, Venmo, checks, and cash withdrawals, transactions that triggered interstate wire transmissions. Young is accused of using the funds for her own enrichment, to pay Fuselier for her role in the scheme, and to continue the ongoing fraud. The indictment further alleges that on December 30, 2023, Young obstructed justice by destroying or concealing records with the intent to prevent their use in an official proceeding.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) investigated the case.  It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren L. Nickel with the assistance of Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 6:26-CR-00269.
 

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
 

LAFAYETTE – On July 23, 2026, Eduardo Perez-Calderon, 34, of Mexico, pled guilty in federal court to False Claim to United States Citizenship. Perez-Calderon faces up to 3 years in federal prison for the charge and is also potentially subject to removal proceedings.

According to court documents, on March 26, 2026, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) received information from the Morgan City Police Department about identification documents submitted by an individual seeking employment at a business in Morgan City. The investigation revealed that on January 5, 2026, Perez-Calderon completed a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I 9, falsely selecting the option that indicated he was a United States citizen. He then signed the document in the name of another individual and provided a false Social Security number. Perez-Calderon admitted that he made these misrepresentations deliberately and with the intent to disobey the law.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

ICE and the Morgan City Police Department investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig R. Bordelon with the assistance of Legal Assistant Tanya Broussard.

This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26 CR 00163.

###

CONTACT: Public Affairs
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov
United States Attorney’s Office www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Western District of Louisiana
Twitter @USAO_WDLA

SHREVEPORT – On July 23, 2026, Zantravious Brooks, 19, of Bossier City, pled guilty in federal court to Possession of a Machinegun. Brooks faces up to 10 years in federal prison for the charge.

According to court documents, on February 19, 2026, Shreveport Police officers and a Caddo Parish Juvenile Probation Officer conducted a compliance check at a Shreveport townhouse. Brooks was present when officers conducted a search with the consent of the resident’s mother, and officers found a loaded Glock Model 19 firearm in a bedroom closet. Brooks admitted to possessing the firearm, which had been modified with an external machinegun conversion device known as a '”Glock switch,” and to having hidden the machinegun in the closet where law enforcement recovered it. The Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) later examined the weapon and confirmed that the attached device had converted the firearm into a machinegun.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the Shreveport Police Department, the Caddo Parish Juvenile Probation Office, and ATF.  It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Earl M. Campbell with assistance from Legal Assistant Stephanie Stewart.  

This case was investigated as a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, community leaders, and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  PSN is coordinated by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the 94 federal judicial districts throughout the 50 states and U.S. territories.  PSN is customized to account for local violent crime problems and resources.  Across all districts, PSN follows four key design elements of successful violent crime reduction initiatives: community engagement, prevention and intervention, focused and strategic enforcement, and accountability.  Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:26-cr-00226-01.

###

Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA

LAFAYETTE – On July 22, 2026, United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Jeremy Black, 52, of Lafayette, to 84 months in federal prison followed by four years of supervised release for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1).

According to court documents, on March 25, 2025, police initiated a traffic stop on Black’s vehicle after observing several traffic violations on Interstate 10 (I‑10), which included following too closely and improper lane usage. During an authorized search, officers found a black and gray bag containing two kilogram‑sized bundles of suspected narcotics wrapped in brown tape. A field test confirmed the presence of cocaine. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) laboratory testing later verified that the bundles contained 1,999.8 grams of cocaine, an amount consistent with large-scale trafficking operations. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Criminal Patrol Unit (LPSONU CPU) and the DEA investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy prosecuted the case with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle. 

This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Take Back America (TBA), a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s agencies, and coordinates efforts with state and local law enforcement and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN). These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF), ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more about PSN at https://www.justice.gov/psn.

This press release (and any updates) will be available on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Court documents and information can be found at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under Case Number 6:25-CR-00192.

###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA    

LAFAYETTE – On July 21, 2026, Scott Martel, 36, of Eunice, pled guilty in federal court to Receipt of Child Pornography, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2252A(a)(2).  Martel faces up to 20 years in federal prison for the charges. His sentencing is scheduled for October 13, 2026. 

“Protecting children from sexual exploitation is one of the highest priorities of this Office,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “We will continue working alongside our federal partners to bring offenders who engage in this despicable conduct to speedy justice.”

According to court documents, FBI (Federal Bureau of Investigation) agents began investigating Martel in March of 2025 after identifying communications in a Chatib chatroom that described the graphic sexual acts he intended to commit with minors. These chats connected Martel to his residential address. Agents then executed a search warrant at his home during which Martel acknowledged his involvement in this activity. During the search, agents discovered additional electronic evidence showing that Martel knowingly received illegal images, including of a young child engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The investigation established that Martel used multiple online platforms and electronic devices over a period of time to commit these offenses.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliott Cassidy, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:26 cr 00095 01.

###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA    
 

LAFAYETTE – On July 15, 2026, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Diana Kutateladze, 37, of Brooklyn, New York, with three counts of bribery of a Louisiana public official, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 201(b)(1). Kutateladze faces up to 15 years in federal prison on each count.

According to court documents, on January 11, 2024, January 16, 2024, and May 28, 2024, Kutateladze allegedly offered money and other valuable items—including tequila, a $100 gift card, and $3,000 in online payments—to a public official in the Western District of Louisiana to influence his official acts.  It is alleged that those offered bribes were made to influence the public official to disregard federal immigration laws and recommend the release of immigration detainees. The public official who received these bribes reported them to his supervisors, which resulted in this investigation.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

This case was investigated by Department of Homeland Security (DHS), Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR). It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Craig Bordelon and LaDonte Murphy, with assistance from Legal Assistants Tanya Broussard and Christy Angelle.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 1:26-cr-00273-o1.
 

###
    
Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA    
 

SHREVEPORT– United States Chief District Court Judge Terry A. Doughty recently sentenced defendants who resided in Tallulah, Monroe, and Shreveport to federal prison for firearm and drug trafficking offenses.  All defendants previously pled guilty to their respective charges.

“The Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative lies at the heart of our Office’s mission to keep our Louisiana communities safe from senseless violence and illicit drugs, and these three cases reflect our Office’s commitment to that work across North Louisiana,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Our Office tirelessly works alongside our federal and state partners to prosecute cases like this across the Western District’s 42 parishes, ensuring that our communities’ biggest disruptors are held accountable for firearm and drug trafficking crime.”  

On July 7, 2026, Henry Holloway, 34, of Tallulah, was sentenced to over five years in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine and Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime. Louisiana State Police (LSP) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for having an illegal tint in which Holloway was a passenger. The trooper detected the odor of marijuana and then searched the vehicle. Holloway admitted to possessing a recovered backpack that contained approximately 172 grams of marijuana, 15 grams of cocaine, 2 bottles of Promethazine, sandwich bags, a digital scale, and a firearm loaded with an extended magazine. 

On July 7, 2026, Terrance Long, 52, of Monroe, was sentenced to over eight years in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances and Possession of a Firearm During a Drug Trafficking Offense, with three years supervised release after his sentence is served as to count one and five years supervised release on count four. When officers executed a search warrant at Long’s residence, investigators located a black pouch containing multiple individually wrapped bags of crack cocaine weighing approximately 15 grams and a loaded Taurus 9mm handgun. Long admitted that the narcotics in the residence belonged to him and that he had participated in the distribution of crack (base) cocaine. Long also admitted he had kept the firearm in his home despite knowing that, due to multiple prior felony convictions, he was prohibited from owning or possessing a firearm. 

On July 8, 2026, Chamorea Bell, 30, of Shreveport, was sentenced to over nine years in federal prison for Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition by a Convicted Felon and three years of supervised release following his sentence. Bell was pulled over in Shreveport for a traffic violation. The officer smelled marijuana and proceeded to search Bell’s vehicle. This led to the discovery of a small amount of marijuana and a firearm, which, due to a prior felony conviction, Bell was prohibited from possessing. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (ATF), The Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), the Louisiana State Police (LSP), the Shreveport Police Department (SPD), the Madison Parish Sheriff’s Office (MPSO), and the Monroe Police Department (MPD)  investigated these cases. 

The Henry Holloway case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheyenne Wilson with the assistance of Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan. The Terrance Long and Chamorea Bell cases were prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Crichton with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot. 

These cases were prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement officials, prosecutors, community leaders, and other stakeholders to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in a community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them.  PSN is coordinated by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the 94 federal judicial districts throughout the 50 states and U.S. territories.  

You may find a copy of these press releases (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or  at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer under their respective Case Numbers:

Henry Holloway — 3:25 cr 00268
Terrance Long — 3:25-cr-00295
Chamorea Bell —5:25-cr-00344

    
###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA    
 

SHREVEPORT – On July 8, 2026, District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Johnny Salazar-Ruano, 41, of Honduras, to one year in federal prison after his March 19, 2026, Guilty Plea for Illegal Reentry of a Removed Alien. Salazar-Ruano had been residing in Bossier City.  

Salazar-Ruano was previously removed from the United States on July 3, 2014, on August 17, 2015, and a third time on February 1, 2021, after being convicted in Caddo Parish of felony Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment. In that case, Salazar-Ruano pled guilty to assaulting a woman in the presence of her 12-year-old child.  

On January 10, 2026, Salazar-Ruano was again in the United States. Bossier City Police Department (BCPD) officers conducted a traffic stop on a van after observing the driver fail to signal before turning. Officers had prior information from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) that the registered owner of the vehicle had an active federal warrant for Illegal Reentry of a Removed Alien. The driver, later identified as Salazar-Ruano, was ordered to exit the vehicle but refused to comply. When officers opened the driver's door, Salazar-Ruano attempted to crawl toward the passenger side of the vehicle to avoid being detained. After a brief struggle, officers removed Salazar-Ruano from the van, secured him in handcuffs, and verified the active warrant for his removal from the United States. In this incident, Salazar-Ruano was also charged with resisting an officer.

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

The BCPD, Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), and HSI investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison Foster with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.

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

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or  at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:26-cr-00037-01.

###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA    

LAFAYETTE / ALEXANDRIA  — Yesterday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Clarence A. Frazier Jr., 48, of Alexandria, Louisiana by criminal complaint with the murder of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson who was working with other law enforcement to apprehend Frazier after he failed to appear for trial on a state charge of sexual battery. If convicted, Frazier faces a maximum sentence of life in prison or death.

“U.S. Marshals risk their lives every day - securing our courts, protecting our communities, and working shoulder-to-shoulder with local law enforcement to bring dangerous fugitives to justice. Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson embodied that courage and dedication,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Tragically, the defendant's alleged actions claimed the life of a dedicated law enforcement officer who was simply doing his duty. The alleged perpetrator is now in custody and will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Marshal Hanson's family and the entire law enforcement community mourning his loss. Drew paid the ultimate price while protecting our communities. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his service will forever stand as an inspiration to all who wear the badge.”

“Our men and women put their lives on the line every day to apprehend the country’s most dangerous criminals,” said Director Gadyaces Serralta of the U.S. Marshals Service. “When a Deputy U.S. Marshal is killed in the line of duty serving an arrest warrant on a violent fugitive, this agency and, indeed the entire country mourn that loss. While we are all profoundly heartbroken by Drew Hanson’s tragic death, we are at the same time grateful for his unselfish devotion to protecting his community and those he loved.”  

“Our Office joins all of our Western District community and the Department of Justice in mourning and honoring the loss of this Deputy Marshal — a man who was a father, a husband, a son, and a child of God — as someone who paid the ultimate price in service of our community’s safety,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana. “This investigation is ongoing and a criminal complaint is only an allegation, but our office looks forward to working alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners to ensure that justice is done and that accountability reflects the enormity of the loss our community grieves today.”

“The FBI offers our deepest condolences to the family of Deputy U.S. Marshal Hanson, who was killed in the line of duty while doing his job pursuing a subject wanted for violent crime” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We will commit our full force of resources to conduct a thorough investigation with our partners at the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office and the Department of Justice to ensure the individual responsible for this horrific act is brought to justice. The FBI sends our prayers to Deputy Hanson’s family, friends, and our partners at the U.S. Marshal’s service."

According to court documents, law enforcement from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) and the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) secured an arrest warrant for Frazier on July 13 in connection with his failure to appear in state court to face trial on a charge of Sexual Battery with a Person with Infirmities. RPSO and USMS personnel located Frazier at his residence and obtained a search warrant for the residence before attempting to approach Frazier. The officers then approached Frazier’s residence while bearing clear law enforcement markings to execute the warrant, announced their presence, and forced entry into the residence.

Officers then found Frazier in his bedroom, where he barricaded himself and shot at the officers, striking a Deputy United States Marshal who later succumbed to his injuries. Frazier then engaged in a further standoff with law enforcement in his bedroom until he was taken into custody.

The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from RPSO.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys John W. Nickel and Elliott Cassidy for the Western District of Louisiana are prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills and Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.

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

26-775
 

Yesterday, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana charged Clarence A. Frazier Jr., 48 of Alexandria, Louisiana by criminal complaint with the murder of Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson who was working with other law enforcement to apprehend Frazier after he failed to appear for trial on a state charge of sexual battery. If convicted, Frazier faces a maximum sentence of life in prison or death. 

“U.S. Marshals risk their lives every day - securing our courts, protecting our communities, and working shoulder-to-shoulder with local law enforcement to bring dangerous fugitives to justice. Deputy U.S. Marshal Drew Hanson embodied that courage and dedication,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Tragically, the defendant's alleged actions claimed the life of a dedicated law enforcement officer who was simply doing his duty. The alleged perpetrator is now in custody and will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. Our thoughts and prayers are with Deputy Marshal Hanson's family and the entire law enforcement community mourning his loss. Drew paid the ultimate price while protecting our communities. His sacrifice will never be forgotten, and his service will forever stand as an inspiration to all who wear the badge.”

“Our men and women put their lives on the line every day to apprehend the country’s most dangerous criminals,” said Director Gadyaces Serralta of the U.S. Marshals Service. “When a Deputy U.S. Marshal is killed in the line of duty serving an arrest warrant on a violent fugitive, this agency and, indeed the entire country mourn that loss. While we are all profoundly heartbroken by Drew Hanson’s tragic death, we are at the same time grateful for his unselfish devotion to protecting his community and those he loved.”   

“Our Office joins all of our Western District community and the Department of Justice in mourning and honoring the loss of this Deputy Marshal — a man who was a father, a husband, a son, and a child of God — as someone who paid the ultimate price in service of our community’s safety,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana. “This investigation is ongoing and a criminal complaint is only an allegation, but our office looks forward to working alongside our federal and state law enforcement partners to ensure that justice is done and that accountability reflects the enormity of the loss our community grieves today.”

“The FBI offers our deepest condolences to the family of Deputy U.S. Marshal Hanson, who was killed in the line of duty while doing his job pursuing a subject wanted for violent crime” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “We will commit our full force of resources to conduct a thorough investigation with our partners at the Rapides Parish Sheriff's Office and the Department of Justice to ensure the individual responsible for this horrific act is brought to justice. The FBI sends our prayers to Deputy Hanson’s family, friends, and our partners at the U.S. Marshal’s service."

According to court documents, law enforcement from the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office (RPSO) and the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) secured an arrest warrant for Frazier on July 13 in connection with his failure to appear in state court to face trial on a charge of Sexual Battery with a Person with Infirmities. RPSO and USMS personnel located Frazier at his residence and obtained a search warrant for the residence before attempting to approach Frazier. The officers then approached Frazier’s residence while bearing clear law enforcement markings to execute the warrant, announced their presence, and forced entry into the residence. 

Officers then found Frazier in his bedroom, where he barricaded himself and shot at the officers, striking a Deputy United States Marshal who later succumbed to his injuries. Frazier then engaged in a further standoff with law enforcement in his bedroom until he was taken into custody.

The FBI is investigating the case with assistance from RPSO. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Nickel for the Western District of Louisiana is prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Joanne Henry-Mills.

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

LAFAYETTE–On June 30, 2026, District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Marcus Redlich, 26, of Crowley, to 10 years in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess with the Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 846, 841(a)(l).  

A close associate of Redlich’s, Marley Guidry, 22, also of Crowley, pled guilty to the same offense on July 1, 2026.

According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) identified Redlich in July 2024 as a suspected methamphetamine trafficker operating in and around the region. Over several months, agents conducted extensive surveillance and determined that Redlich worked closely with an associate, Guidry, who helped transport, supply, and facilitate Redlich’s distribution activities throughout the area.

On August 28, 2025, federal and state authorities coordinated search and enforcement actions. Louisiana State Police initiated a traffic stop on Redlich along Interstate 10 at mile marker 97 in Lafayette Parish. Redlich briefly slowed his vehicle but suddenly accelerated in an attempt to flee, directing a passenger to throw two white grocery bags out of the vehicle before crashing and being apprehended. Troopers recovered two clear, vacuum sealed bags containing approximately three pounds of pure methamphetamine from the roadside where the bags were discarded.  

Simultaneously, Acadia Parish Sheriff's Office executed a search warrant at Redlich’s residence in Crowley. Agents recovered additional quantities of pure methamphetamine, digital scales, and plastic baggies, along with other controlled substances. Redlich later admitted to possessing the narcotics found in his home. 

A separate search warrant executed on Guidry’s home also uncovered a significant quantity of illegal narcotics, including pure methamphetamine, Dimethyl Sulfone, cocaine, and other controlled substances. 

U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office (LPSO), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), Louisiana State Police (LSP), and Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO). 

It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte Murphy with assistance from Legal Administrative Specialist Christy Angelle. 

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 6:25 CR 00326 01.

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA    


 

SHREVEPORT – On June 26, 2026, Perry Willis, 37, of Natchitoches, was sentenced to 292 months in federal prison after his guilty plea to Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine in connection with an eleven-person drug trafficking conspiracy operating in central Louisiana.   

“This significant sentence reflects the serious threat this organization posed to our community and the importance of dismantling high-volume illicit drug suppliers lurking in our midst,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “This Office remains committed to protecting our communities and bringing these dangerous criminals to justice.”

In 2023, the DEA launched an investigation into this drug trafficking ring operating across Louisiana and Texas. Wire taps and surveillance identified Willis and his co-conspirator, Daniel Efferson, 33, of Natchitoches, as members of the network. The investigation escalated on August 16, 2024, when Louisiana authorities conducted a traffic stop of Efferson near the state line. Efferson, Willis, and Jaquez Flakes, 19, of Natchitoches, fled the stop, initiating a vehicle chase that ended in a crash. Agents recovered approximately nine kilograms of methamphetamine and twenty-four pounds of synthetic marijuana from the vehicle. The crash led to further investigation in Houston, where agents seized 221.5 kilograms of liquid methamphetamine, disguised as bottled water, and discovered a meth conversion lab with burners, pots, and 11 kilograms of processed methamphetamine. These seizures linked Willis, Efferson, Flakes, and 8 other co-conspirators to the same supply network. 

Others previously charged and sentenced in the case are: 

Daniel Efferson, 33, of Natchitoches — 360 months (30 years)
Christopher Caffey, 37, of Shreveport — 262 months (over 21 years)
Joshua Hardy, 32, of Shreveport — 151 months (over 12 years)
Delannie Lee, 51, of Shreveport — 168 months (14 years)
Crystal Williams, 36, of Mansfield — 60 months (5 years)
Kellie Yates, 50, of Shreveport — 3 years’ probation
Amadeo Penaloza-Meza, 22, of Mexico — 135 months (over 11 years)
Brayan Sandoval, 22, of Mexico — 135 months (over 11 years)
Jeffrey Flack, 51, of Shreveport — 120 months (10 years)

The last remaining defendant, Flakes, will be sentenced in August of 2026. 

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Louisiana State Police, and multiple local law-enforcement partners investigated the case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Moody with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan. 

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or  at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:24-CR-00256-10.

###

Public Affairs    
United States Attorney’s Office            
Western District of Louisiana            
USALAW-News@usdoj.gov www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA