SENTENCING IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON BANKRUPTCY FRAUD CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced that MELISSA L. FONTENOT, age 47, of Denham Springs, Louisiana, was sentenced in federal court yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge James J. Brady on a bankruptcy fraud charge. FONTENOT was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of eighteen months with three years of supervised release and a fine of $1,500.

FONTENOT was convicted on August 9, 2006, under a bill of information that charged her with one count of bankruptcy fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 157. According to the bill of information, FONTENOT, in February 2004, filed a petition for bankruptcy relief in her and her husband’s name in the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Louisiana. When the bankruptcy commenced, a payroll deduction was put
into place with the defendant’s husband’s employer. FONTENOT forged a court order purportedly issued by a U.S. Bankruptcy Court judge. The fraudulent order directed the defendant’s husband’s employer to stop the payroll deduction and to return any such payments to the debtors. The order also falsely claimed that the bankruptcy had been modified to Chapter 7.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the U.S. Trustee, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard L. Bourgeois,
Jr.

U.S. Attorney Dugas stated, “Any fraud on the court can impair the operation of the judicial system, but the combination of bankruptcy fraud executed through the forgery of a court order, threatens the integrity of the entire judicial process. I commend the U.S. Trustee and the FBI for their vigilance in detecting and investigating this matter.”

14 December 2006 Thomas Sentencing

SENTENCING IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON BRIBERY CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – ALVIN W. THOMAS, JR., age 48, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, was sentenced by Chief U. S. District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson in connection with a bribery scheme, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today. At the time of the offense, THOMAS was a member of the Ascension Parish Council in Ascension Parish, Louisiana. THOMAS was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of twenty-one months, two years supervised release, and a $3,500 fine.

In June of 2006 THOMAS pled guilty to a bill of information charging him with one count of bribery, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 666(a)(1)(B). In his plea agreement, THOMAS admitted to the following facts:

Thomas was elected to the parish council by the citizens of the Parish’s first district, which is comprised largely of Donaldsonville, Louisiana. Thomas and the rest of the council are entrusted to oversee the Parish and its government. As a councilman, Thomas is involved in determining who receives contracts with the Parish. Some of the contracts decided upon by the parish council
regard the treatment of sewage.

On May 26, 2005, Thomas met with a local businessman who had several sewer treatment contracts with the Parish. During the meeting, Thomas agreed to accept one hundred dollars ($100) from the businessman in exchange for Thomas’ continued support of the businessman’s sewer contracts.

On June 3, 2005, Thomas asked the local businessman for five hundred dollars ($500) in exchange for Thomas’ continued support of the sewer contracts.

On June 9, 2005, Thomas had dinner with the local businessman for the purpose of introducing the local businessman to another member of the Ascension Parish Council. After the meeting, the local businessman gave Thomas five hundred dollars ($500) in cash, as Thomas had requested. Thomas also explained to the businessman how to bribe a politician without being too overt. After giving his explanation, Thomas told the businessman
that he had given him a “crash course in politics.”

On September 14, 2005, Thomas asked the local businessman for three hundred dollars ($300) in exchange for Thomas’ continued support of the sewer contracts. In response, the local businessman gave Thomas the money in cash.

This case was investigated by Special Agents Brett Skiles and Kevin Kaufman of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Corey R. Amundson.

14 December 2006 FEMA Fraud - Franklin Betty Sentencing

ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced that another Louisiana resident was sentenced in federal court today by U.S. District Court Judge James J.
Brady on a fraud charge related to hurricane disaster relief programs.

BETTY L. FRANKLIN, age 54, of Port Allen, Louisiana, pled guilty to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. She was sentenced to three years probation with fifty hours of community service, and $2,000 in restitution.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation of this matter.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at eighty-two.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes
such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

13 December 2006 Liou 5A

INITIAL APPEARANCE IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON CHARGES OF CONSPIRACY, RECEIPT AND POSSESSON OF STOLEN TRADE SECRETS, WIRE FRAUD, ILLEGAL MONETARY TRANSACTIONS, AND PERJURY

BATON ROUGE, La. – David W. Liou, also known as Wen Chyu Liu, 69, formerly of Baton Rouge, La., appeared today before magistrate Judge Christine Noland, and pled not guilty on charges of conspiracy, receipt and possession of stolen trade secrets, wire fraud, illegal monetary transactions, perjury, and asset forfeiture, U.S. Attorney David R. Dugas announced today. All charges are associated with allegations of stolen trade secrets of Dow Chemical Company which Liou is alleged to have attempted to market to companies in the People’s Republic of China. A fifteen-count indictment was returned by a federal grand jury on March
24, 2005, and had remained under seal until August 22, 2006, when Liou was arrested after arriving on an intercontinental flight; inbound to Seattle from Taipei, Taiwan.

Public records from Liou’s August 23rd initial appearance in federal court in Seattle, Washington, reveal that Liou had been scheduled to report to St. Luke’s Episcopal Hospital in Houston, Texas, for medical treatment before he was arrested. A magistrate judge in Seattle had ordered Liou released to the custody of his son, David Liou, Jr., who was to accompany Liou to Houston for the medical treatment. Liou’s travel was ordered restricted between Houston and Baton Rouge, and he was placed under the supervision of the Houston Probation Office.

U.S. Attorney Dugas confirmed that the initial appearance on the Baton Rouge charges was scheduled after Liou had recovered sufficiently to be able to travel to Louisiana to face the indictment today.

The same travel restrictions set by the Seattle court were reimposed by Magistrate Judge Noland, and a $50,000 bond was set and signed by the defendant and one of his daughters, who
lives in Baton Rouge.

The indictment alleges that Liou had worked for Dow from 1965 until he retired in March 1992. During his career at Dow, Liou is alleged to have worked in research and development and had signed employment and retirement agreements with Dow, prohibiting his ability to disclose Dow’s trade secrets and other confidential information without written permission of Dow.

The indictment alleges that beginning on an unknown date and continuing until at least Oct. 31, 2001, Liou knowingly conspired with others to: (1) steal, appropriate without authorization, and obtain by fraud, trade secrets related to Tyrin® CPE (an elastomeric brand of chlorinated polyethylene polymer), which had been developed by Dow; (2) copy and convey Dow’s Tyrin® CPE trade secrets; and (3) receive and possess Dow’s Tyrin® CPE trade secrets, knowing such information to have been stolen without authorization. The indictment further alleges that Liou hired employees and former employees of Dow who had worked for Dow in producing Tyrin® CPE to prepare a detailed engineering package to sell to prospective Chinese companies.

The conspiracy count carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine, the greatest of twice the gross gain to the defendant, twice the gross loss caused, or $250,000;

Count Two charges receipt and possession of stolen trade secrets, with the same maximum penalties as the conspiracy count. Counts Three through Ten charge eight counts of
wire fraud, a conviction for which offense has a maximum term of imprisonment of 5 years imprisonment per count, plus a fine, the greatest of twice the gross gain to the defendant, twice the gross loss caused, or $250,000. Counts Eleven through Thirteen charge three counts of illegal monetary transaction, with a conviction for which offense having a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years per count and a fine, the greatest of twice the gross gain to the
defendant, twice the gross loss caused, or $250,000. Counts Fourteen and Fifteen each charge perjury, a conviction for which has a maximum term of imprisonment of 5 years per count and a
$250,000 fine.

Thus, if convicted of all counts, Liou faces up to 100 years in prison, and a fine, the greatest of $3,750,000, or twice the gross gain he received or twice the gross loss he caused. Although not bound by them, the Court must consult the Federal Sentencing Guidelines in fashioning any sentence.

This case was investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian F. Hipwell. U.S. Attorney David R. Dugas said that protection of the trade secrets of American companies is vital to the economy of America.

NOTE: An indictment is a determination by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe that offenses have been committed by a defendant. The defendant, of course, is presumed innocent until and unless he is proven guilty at trial.

13 December 2006 Fema Fraud - Bergeron Bill of Information

ANOTHER CHARGED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, WITH FEDERAL FRAUD VIOLATIONS

BATON ROUGE, LA – A bill of information was filed Monday against a Louisiana resident, charging him with fraud related to a Hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

DAVID W. BERGERON, age 50, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged on Monday, December 11, in a bill of information with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. If convicted, BERGERON faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

Monday’s filing brings the total number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds to eighty- two.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes
such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

11 December 2006 Zenith Unsealed

SEVEN CHARGED WITH FRAUD, BRIBERY, RACKETEERING IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

BATON ROUGE, La. – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today the unsealing of various charges and guilty pleas involving five local businessmen, an accountant, and a former auditor with the East Baton Rouge Parish Auditor’s Office. These charges are the result of Operation Zenith, a long-running investigation into fraud and corruption in the collection and payment of sales and payroll taxes. Operation Zenith resulted in charges that the below listed business owners and their accountant under-reported their sales to state and local
governments by over ten million dollars ($10,000,000). The business owners and their accountant are charged with paying bribes to officials within the East Baton Rouge Parish Auditor’s Office and agreeing to bribe an auditor with the Louisiana Department of Revenue in an attempt to conceal this scheme.
The below individuals have been charged as follows:

JAMAL M. ROMAN, age 46, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been charged with five counts of mail fraud in connection with sales tax fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341), two counts of mail fraud in connection with payroll tax fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341), three counts of bribery (18 U.S.C. § 666), and forfeiture.

MOHAMED H. RUMAN, age 34, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been charged with two counts of mail fraud in connection with payroll tax fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341).

ROSTOM H. LAYMON, age 48, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been charged with six counts of mail fraud in connection with sales tax fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341), three counts of mail fraud in connection with payroll tax fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341), three counts of bribery (18 U.S.C. § 666), and forfeiture. Laymon’s initial appearance and arraignment are scheduled for January 10, 2007.

HUMAM S. AL-ALOUSI, age 53, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, has been charged with two counts of mail fraud in connection with sales tax fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341), one count of bribery (18 U.S.C. § 666), one count of using an interstate facility in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. § 1952), and one count of making a false statement to an agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (18 U.S.C. § 1001). Al-Alousi’s initial appearance and arraignment are scheduled for January 3, 2007.

KHOA DINH CHAU, age 37, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on November 30, 2006, before Chief Judge Ralph E. Tyson to one count of mail fraud in connection with sales tax fraud (18 U.S.C. § 1341) and one count of bribery (18 U.S.C. § 666). Sentencing has yet to be set.

HASSAN S. ABOUOSAYD, age 57, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 23, 2006, before Chief Judge Ralph E. Tyson to four counts of bribery (18 U.S.C. § 666) and one count of using an interstate facility in aid of racketeering (18 U.S.C. § 1952).
Sentencing has yet to be set.

JEROME R. SHORE, age 51, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on September 20, 2006, before Chief Judge Ralph E. Tyson to one count of bribery (18 U.S.C. § 666). Sentencing has yet to be set.

The defendants charged with mail fraud (ROMAN, RUMAN, LAYMON, AL-ALOUSI, CHAU) face a maximum sentence of imprisonment of twenty years, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both, per count. The defendants charged with bribery (ROMAN, LAYMON, AL-
ALOUSI, CHAU, ABOUOSAYD, SHORE) face a maximum sentence of imprisonment of ten years, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both, per count. The defendants charged with use of an interstate facility in aid of racketeering (AL-ALOUSI, ABOUOSAYD) face a maximum sentence of imprisonment of five years, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count. The defendant charged with making a false statement to a federal agent (AL-ALOUSI) faces a maximum
sentence of imprisonment of five years, a $250,000 fine, or both, on this count. Operation Zenith is being led by Assistant United States Attorney Corey R. Amundson, Special Agents Alfredo Duran and Christine Fritz of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and
Investigator Steve Woodring of the Louisiana State Police. The investigation was assisted greatly by the cooperation of the East Baton Rouge Parish Auditor’s Office. Other governmental
agencies and entities also provided assistance, including the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Louisiana State University Police Department, the Louisiana Department of Labor, the Louisiana Department of Revenue, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Government of Lebanon.

U.S. Attorney Dugas stated, “With help from concerned citizens and our federal, state and local partners, this office will continue to pursue those that seek to exploit our communities and its taxpayers through fraud and corruption. Operation Zenith demonstrates the success that can come when federal, state, and local governments come together in a cooperative law enforcement effort.”

NOTE: An indictment is a determination by a grand jury that there is probable cause to believe that offenses have been committed by the defendants. The defendants, of course, are presumed innocent until and unless they are proven guilty at trial.

6 December 2006 FEMA Fraud - Becnel Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA,
ON FEDERAL FRAUD CHARGE

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

1 December 2006 FEMA Fraud - Parker Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FRAUD CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident pled guilty in federal court on a charge of fraud related to hurricane disaster relief programs, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

LETITIA PARKER, age 21, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge John V. Parker to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster assistance benefits. The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. As a result of her guilty plea to Count One of the indictment, PARKER faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both. As part of the plea agreement, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will dismiss Count Two of the indictment when PARKER is sentenced on Count One.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at eighty-one.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes
such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

29 November 2006 FEMA Fraud - Dunn Indictment

ANOTHER INDICTED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was indicted in federal court today on fraud charges related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R.
Dugas announced today.

LATOYA K. DUNN, age 29, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged in a two-count indictment by a federal grand jury with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster assistance benefits and with making false and fraudulent statements to FEMA. The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. If convicted, DUNN faces a
maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

Today’s indictment brings the total number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds to eighty-
one.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

28 November 2006 FEMA Fraud - K Jones Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident pled guilty in federal court on fraud charges related to hurricane disaster relief programs, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

KOIEASHA JONES, age 26, of Greenwell Springs, Louisiana, pled guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge James J. Brady to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster assistance benefits. The case was investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. As a result of her guilty plea to Count One of the indictment, JONES faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both. As part of the plea agreement, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will dismiss Count Two of the indictment when JONES is sentenced on Count One.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at eighty.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

16 November 2006 FEMA Fraud - Watson Sentencing

ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was sentenced in federal court by U.S. District Court Judge James J. Brady on fraud charges related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

TERRY WATSON, age 40, of Zachary, Louisiana, pled guilty on July 5, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging him with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. WATSON was sentenced to two years of probation, a $250 fine, $2,000 in restitution, and 50 hours of community service. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation of this matter.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at eighty.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

9 November 2006 FEMA Fraud - Reed Indictment - Langley Sentencing

ANOTHER INDICTED, ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA,
ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was indicted and two more were sentenced in federal court today on fraud charges related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

MICHAEL D. REED, age 56, of Loranger, Louisiana, was charged in an indictment by a federal grand jury with three counts of wire fraud in obtaining disaster unemployment benefits for alleged losses resulting from Hurricane Katrina. REED is charged with defrauding the Louisiana Department of Labor (LDOL) and the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) by applying for benefits under the disaster unemployment assistance
program from on or about November 29, 2005, to on or about May 10, 2006, while allegedly failing to notify LDOL of his continuous employment after the storm. These funds were intended for persons who had become unemployed as a result of the disaster. The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. If convicted, REED faces a maximum sentence of twenty years imprisonment, a
$250,000 fine, or both, per count.

QUINCY LANGLEY, age 29, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on July 5, 2006, to an indictment charging him with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. He was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge James J. Brady to ten months imprisonment, a three year term of supervised release, and $2,000 in restitution. The U.S. Secret Service; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation of this matter.

Today’s indictment brings the total number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds to eighty.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

31 October 2006 FEMA Fraud - Francis - Franklin Harris Guilty Pleas

TWO MORE PLEAD GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Two more Louisiana residents pled guilty in federal court on fraud charges related to hurricane disaster relief programs, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

EDWIN L. FRANKLIN, age 24, of Port Allen, Louisiana, pled guilty before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson to a two-count indictment charging him with making a false and fraudulent claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits and for making false and fraudulent statements to the Federal Emergency Management Agency (“FEMA”) regarding damages incurred as a result of Hurricane Katrina. The indictment alleges that the fraudulent claim filed by FRANKLIN resulted in a total disbursement of $9,553.76 to FRANKLIN by FEMA. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. As a result of his guilty plea to Counts One and Two of the indictment, FRANKLIN faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, or both.

DORETTA V. FRANCIS, age 35, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty before U.S. District Court Judge James J. Brady to a Bill of Information charging her with making a false and fraudulent claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. The case was
investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. As a result of her guilty plea, FRANCIS faces a maximum sentence of five (5) years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at seventy-nine.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

30 October 2006 FEMA Fraud - Harris Sentencing

ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at seventy-nine.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

30 October 2006 FEMA Fraud - Roberts Sentencing

ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was sentenced in federal court on Friday by U.S. District Court Judge John V. Parker on fraud charges related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today. SCOTT LEE ROBERTS, age 41, formerly of Orlando, Florida, was sentenced to eighteen months imprisonment, to be served concurrently for each of three federal counts of conviction; five years of supervised release with 50 hours of community service; and $15,092 in restitution to the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA). The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General; the
Sacramento, California, Police Department; and the Billings, Montana, Police Department conducted the investigation of this matter.

ROBERTS pled guilty on June 6, 2006, to Counts One, Eight and Nine of an indictment, Count One charging wire fraud, and Counts Eight and Nine each charging illegal use of a Social Security Account Number. The indictment alleged that ROBERTS filed claims for Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) benefits with the Louisiana Department of Labor using false places of employment and false Social Security Numbers that ROBERTS knew had not been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to the listed DUA claimant. The DUA program for the State of Louisiana, administered by the Louisiana Department of Labor, provides financial assistance to individuals whose employment has been lost or interrupted as a result of a major disaster declared by the President of the United States. Funding for the program
is provided by FEMA.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at seventy-nine.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

17 October 2006 FEMA Fraud - Jones Sentencing and Wade bill of information

ANOTHER CHARGED, ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was sentenced and another charged in a bill of information in federal court on fraud charges related to hurricane disaster relief programs, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

JUANITA WADE, age 34, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged yesterday in a bill of information with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. If convicted, WADE faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or
both.

LYDIA JONES, age 23, of Donaldsonville, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 6, 2006, to an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. She was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge John V. Parker today to three years of probation, 50 hours of community service, and $2,000 in restitution. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation of this matter.

Yesterday’s filing brings the total number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds to seventy-nine.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

12 October 2006 FEMA Fraud - London Sentencing

ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was sentenced in federal court by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson on a fraud charge related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

BETTY FAYE LONDON, age 53, of Wilson, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 7, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. LONDON was sentenced to three years of probation and $2,000 in restitution. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation of this matter.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at seventy-eight.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

6 October 2006 DHS Arrest - Jamar Anderson

FOURTH PERSON ARRESTED FOR THEFT OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

BATON ROUGE, LA – JAMAR ANDERSON, age 32, of Gretna, Louisiana, was arrested by federal agents yesterday on charges of conspiracy and theft of government property, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced. A criminal complaint was
signed this afternoon by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Stephen C. Riedlinger.

The complaint alleges that ANDERSON was an employee of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). ANDERSON allegedly worked at the staging area of a FEMA storage site in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and had access to the site and travel trailers with crated air conditioning units that were stored there. The complaint alleges that ANDERSON was involved in a scheme involving the unauthorized taking of air conditioning units from the FEMA storage site. ANDERSON is the fourth individual arrested in this matter. Three others, BYRON BASIL, BYRON HARDESTY, and LEROY THOMAS, JR., were arrested yesterday on related charges.

NOTE: A complaint is merely an accusation by a law enforcement official, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty at trial.

5 October 2006 DHS Arrests

THREE ARRESTED FOR THEFT OF GOVERNMENT PROPERTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA

BATON ROUGE, LA – BYRON T. BASIL, age 29, of Plaquemine, Louisiana; BYRON W. HARDESTY, age 37, of Baker, Louisiana; and LEROY THOMAS, JR., age 37, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, were arrested by federal agents yesterday on charges of theft of
government property, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced. A criminal complaint was signed this afternoon by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Stephen C. Riedlinger.

The complaint alleges that BASIL and THOMAS were employees of the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), and that HARDESTY was a former FEMA employee. BASIL and THOMAS allegedly worked at the staging area of a FEMA storage
site in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. All three defendants allegedly had access to the site and travel trailers with crated air conditioning units that were stored there. The complaint alleges that BASIL, THOMAS, and HARDESTY were involved in a scheme involving the
unauthorized taking of air conditioning units from the FEMA storage site. The men were arrested after they attempted to sell several of the air conditioning units for a fraction of their value to a Special Agent with the Inspector General’s Office of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security who was working in an undercover capacity.

U.S. Attorney Dugas said, "The arrests last night were the result of an investigation that started last week and was handled quickly and efficiently by inspectors from the Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General and by the East Baton Rouge
Parish Sheriff's Office. We will review all of the evidence and make charging decisions in accordance with the Attorney General's zero tolerance policy for disaster related fraud."

NOTE: A complaint is merely an accusation by a law enforcement official, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty at trial.

5 October 2006 Hill Conviction

GUILTY VERDICT RETURNED BY JURY ON BRIBERY CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – A federal jury in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, convicted TOCQUEN R. HILL, age 39, of Opelousas, Louisiana, on a bribery charge yesterday, U.S. Attorney David R. Dugas announced.

The indictment charged that HILL had attended Southern University and Agricultural and Mechanical College (Southern University) between 1985 and 1991, but never graduated. It was
charged that in or about September 2002, HILL agreed to give approximately $3,500 in cash to a registrar at Southern University with the intent to influence and reward him in connection with
his making approximately 50 course and grade changes and additions for courses that HILL had neither attended nor earned. These changes caused the creation of a transcript that falsely
showed that HILL had graduated from Southern University in May 1994 with a Bachelor of Science degree.

U.S. District Court Judge James J. Brady presided over the two-day jury trial. Assistant United States Attorneys Ian F. Hipwell and Richard L. Bourgeois, Jr., prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.

HILL faces a maximum period of ten years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, or both. Judge Brady will sentence the defendant following the completion of a pre-sentence investigation.

The case was investigated by Special Agents Marcus Culpepper of the U.S. Department of Education, Office of Inspector General; Special Agents Bryan Gaines and Christine Fritz of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; and Investigator Tom Boulton, formerly of the East Baton Rouge Parish District Attorney’s Office. U.S. Attorney David Dugas also expressed thanks for the cooperation received from officials at Southern University and those of the East Baton Rouge Parish, East Feliciana Parish, and West Baton Rouge Parish public school systems.

5 October 2006 FEMA Fraud - Preston Sentencing

ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was sentenced in federal court by U.S. District Court Judge Frank J. Polozola on a fraud charge related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

MONIQUE C. PRESTON, age 25, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on June 12, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. PRESTON was sentenced to three years of probation, fifty hours of community service, and $2,000 in restitution. The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation of this matter.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at seventy-four.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes
such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

2 October 2006 FEMA Fraud - Tarsha Johnson Sentencing

ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was sentenced in federal court by U.S. District Court Judge Frank J. Polozola on a fraud charge related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

TARSHA JOHNSON, age 27, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on May 8, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. JOHNSON was sentenced to eighteen months imprisonment followed by three years of supervised release with fifty hours of community service, and $2,000 in restitution. The U.S. Secret Service; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; and the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General, conducted the investigation of this matter. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney
Richard L. Bourgeois, Jr.

The number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds stands at seventy-four.

In September 2005, Attorney General Alberto R. Gonzales created the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, designed to deter, investigate and prosecute disaster-related federal crimes such as charity fraud, identity theft, procurement fraud and insurance fraud. The Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force – chaired by Assistant Attorney General Alice S. Fisher of the Criminal Division – includes the FBI, the U.S. Inspectors General community, the U.S. Secret Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Executive Office for United States Attorneys and others.

For further information, contact David R. Dugas, U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Louisiana, or Lyman Thornton, First Assistant U.S. Attorney, at (225) 389-0443. Anyone suspecting criminal activity involving disaster assistance programs can make an anonymous report by calling the toll-free Hurricane Relief Fraud Hotline, 1-866-720-5721, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, until further notice. Information can also be emailed to the Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force at HKFTF@leo.gov or sent by surface mail, with as many details as possible, to Hurricane Katrina Fraud Task Force, Baton Rouge, LA 70821-4909.

The United States Attorney's Office

Middle District of Louisiana

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2006 Press Releases

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