KEISHA U. FRANKLIN, age 29, and DONALD R. NELSON, age 30, both of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, were each 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 in these cases resulted from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. If convicted, FRANKLIN and NELSON each face maximum sentences of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

Today’s indictments bring the total number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds to one hundred.

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.

22 March 2007 McMullen Arrest

ARREST IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON CHARGE OF
OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE BY ATTEMPTING TO KILL A FEDERAL WITNESS

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced that a federal grand jury in the Middle District of Louisiana returned an indictment yesterday charging DONOVON R. McMULLEN, JR., age 42, of Bethany, Louisiana, with two counts of attempting to kill a federal witness. McMULLEN was arrested today in Shreveport, Louisiana. The indictment charges McMULLEN in Count One with attempting to kill R.A. with the intent to prevent R.A. from attending and testifying at a federal grand jury proceeding and a federal criminal trial, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(a)(1)(A). Count Two charges McMULLEN with attempting to kill R.A. with the intent to prevent R.A. from providing information to law enforcement about the interstate transportation of stolen government-owned medical equipment, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1512(a)(1)(C). If convicted, McMULLEN faces up to 40 years imprisonment, a $500,000 fine, or both.

An initial appearance is scheduled in this matter at 3:30 p.m. today before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Mark L. Hornsby in the Western District of Louisiana (Shreveport).

This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana and the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Deputy Criminal Chief Corey R. Amundson.

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

22 March 2007 FEMA Fraud - Mary Johnson Sentencing

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

MARY JOHNSON, age 52, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on September 19, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. JOHNSON was sentenced today to three years of probation, $2,000 in restitution, and 50 hours of community service. The U.S. Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s 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 ninety-eight.

21 March 2007 FEMA Fraud - Ehiorobo - Lewis - Nichols - Burden Indictment

FOUR MORE INDICTED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FRAUD CHARGES RELATED TO A HURRICANE DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAM

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

FREDRICA EHIOROBO, age 20, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. If convicted, EHIOROBO faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

TERRI LEWIS, age 41, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. If convicted, LEWIS faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

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

TRINA BURDEN, age 40, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged in a three-count indictment by a federal grand jury with making false and fraudulent claims for disaster assistance benefits (Counts One and Three) and with illegal conversion of government property, that is, a check from FEMA for expedited disaster assistance (Count Two). The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the United States Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. If convicted on Counts One and Three. BURDEN faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count. If convicted on Count Two, BURDEN faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

Today’s indictments bring the total number of individuals who have been charged in the Middle District of Louisiana with violations related to hurricane disaster relief funds to ninety-eight.

20 March 2007 FEMA Fraud - Henderson Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, TO 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.

CHRISTOPHER M. HENDERSON, age 23, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Frank J. Polozola to Count One of an indictment charging him with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster relief benefits. The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. As a result of his guilty plea, HENDERSON 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 HENDERSON 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 ninety-four.

15 March 2007 Barrett Indictment

INDICTMENT IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FIREARMS CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today that a federal grand jury in the Middle District of Louisiana returned a two-count indictment against JEREMY CARLTON BARRETT, age 44, of Ventress, Louisiana, charging him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of an unregistered sawed-off shotgun.

If convicted, BARRETT faces a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $500,000, or both.

The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Pointe Coupee Parish Sheriff’s Office as part of the Project Exile Task Force. Project Exile is a federal program designed to reduce gun violence. Under Project Exile, a convicted felon who possesses a firearm faces federal charges with stiff penalties. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ryan D. McConnell.

15 March 2007 FEMA Fraud - Taylor Pierre Indictment

ANOTHER INDICTED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FRAUD CHARGES RELATED TO A HURRICANE DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAM

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

PIERRE D. TAYLOR, age 39, of Lettsworth, Louisiana, was charged in a two-count indictment by a federal grand jury with mail fraud (Count One) and with illegal conversion of government property, that is, a check from FEMA for expedited disaster assistance (Count Two). The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. If convicted on Count One, TAYLOR faces a maximum sentence of thirty years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count Two, TAYLOR faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

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 ninety-four.

8 March 2007 FEMA Fraud - Allen - Jones - Parker Sentenced

THREE MORE SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FEDERAL FEMA FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – Three more Louisiana residents were 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.

ALETHA ALLEN, age 45, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on November 16, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. ALLEN was sentenced today to three years probation and $2,000.00 in restitution. The U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation of this matter.

KOIEASHA JONES, age 27, of Greenwell Springs, Louisiana, pled guilty on November 28, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster assistance benefits. JONES was sentenced today to three years probation and $2,000.00 in restitution. The U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation of this matter.

EDWARD PARKER, age 21, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 22, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging him with making a false claim for disaster assistance benefits. PARKER was sentenced today to three years probation and $4,000.00 in restitution. The U.S. Secret Service, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s 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 ninety-three.

7 March 2007 Matthews Indictment

INDICTMENT IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FIREARM CHARGE

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today that a federal grand jury in the Middle District of Louisiana returned a one-count indictment against DAMEON MATTHEWS, age 22, of Baton Rouge, charging him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

If convicted, MATTHEWS faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, or both.

The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives as part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods/Exile Task Force. Project Safe Neighborhoods/Exile is a federal program designed to reduce gun violence. Under Project Safe Neighborhoods/Exile, a convicted felon who possesses a firearm faces federal charges with stiff penalties. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph E. Blackwell.

7 March 2007 FEMA Fraud - Whitfield - Wright - Whitfield - Whitfield Indictment

FOUR INDICTED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON CHARGES
OF CONSPIRACY, WIRE FRAUD, MAIL FRAUD, ACCESS DEVICE FRAUD, ILLEGAL USE OF SOCIAL SECURITY NUMBERS, AND AGGRAVATED IDENTITY THEFT RELATED TO A HURRICANE DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAM

BATON ROUGE, LA – Four Louisiana residents were indicted in federal court on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, mail fraud, access device fraud, illegal use of Social Security numbers, and aggravated identity theft related to a hurricane disaster relief program, United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today.

LATASHA WHITFIELD, age 30; LAKEITHA WRIGHT, age 22; DOMONEIK WHITFIELD, age 21, and TONI WHITFIELD, age 42, all residents of Zachary, Louisiana,
were charged in a forty-one count indictment by a federal grand jury as outlined below in connection with an alleged conspiracy to obtain disaster unemployment benefit cards for alleged losses resulting from Hurricane Katrina. The indictment claims that from at least November 4, 2005, and continuing through on or about June 25, 2006, the defendants knowingly conspired with each other and others to file and cause to be filed at least fifty false and fraudulent Disaster Unemployment Assistance (DUA) claims with the Louisiana Department of Labor (LDOL), fraudulently seeking DUA payments of over $120,000. It is further alleged that, as part of the conspiracy, the defendants falsely represented that Social Security numbers listed on the fraudulent DUA claims were those which had been assigned by the Commissioner of Social Security to the claimants. DUA 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. The LDOL administers the DUA program for the State of Louisiana, the funding for which comes from federal funds provided by the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA). The defendants were charged as follows:

LATASHA WHITFIELD – one count of conspiracy, eight counts of wire fraud, eleven counts of mail fraud, one count of access device fraud, seven counts of illegal use of Social Security numbers, and one count of aggravated identify theft.

LAKEITHA WRIGHT – one count of conspiracy, four counts of wire fraud, eight counts of mail fraud, one count of access device fraud, and one count of illegal use of Social Security numbers.

DOMONEIK WHITFIELD – one count of conspiracy, four counts of wire fraud, six counts of mail fraud, one count of access device fraud, and two counts of illegal use of Social Security numbers.

TONI WHITFIELD – one count of conspiracy, two counts of wire fraud, two counts of mail fraud, and one count of access device fraud.

The maximum sentence for each conspiracy count is a five year term of imprisonment, a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss, or $250,000, a special assessment of $100, and supervised release of up to three years after imprisonment. The maximum sentence for each mail or wire fraud count is a twenty year term of imprisonment, a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss, or $250,000, a special assessment of $100, and supervised release of up to three years after imprisonment. The maximum sentence for each count of illegal use of a social security number is a five year term of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, a special assessment of $100, and supervised release of up to three years after imprisonment. Each defendant is charged with one count of access device fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss, or $250,000, a special assessment of $100, and supervised release of up to three years after imprisonment.

LATASHA WHITFIELD is charged in the last count with aggravated identity theft during and in relation to one of the mail fraud counts she faces. In addition to the mail fraud count penalties, if she is convicted of aggravated identity theft, she must serve a consecutive sentence of two years to any term imposed for the mail fraud penalty. If convicted of all counts, LATASHA WHITFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 432 years, two of which must be served consecutive to any other term imposed for the related mail fraud violation, a $7,000,000 fine, or both, plus special assessments of $2800, and supervised release of up to three years.

If convicted of all counts, LAKEITHA WRIGHT faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 260 years, a $3,750,000 fine, or both, plus special assessments of $1500, and supervised release of up to three years.

If convicted of all counts, DOMONEIK WHITFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 225 years, a $3,500,000 fine, or both, plus special assessments of $1400, and supervised release of up to three years.

If convicted of all counts, TONI WHITFIELD faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 90 years, a $1,500,000 fine, or both, plus special assessments of $600, and supervised release of up to three years.

The actual sentence imposed in the event of conviction would be determined by the Court in accordance with the United States Sentencing Guidelines.

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 ninety-three.

The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; the Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Louisiana State Police; and the Zachary, Louisiana, Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ian F. Hipwell.

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.

5 March 2007 FEMA Fraud - B Martin Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, TO 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.

BETTY R. MARTIN, age 41, of Port Allen, Louisiana, pled guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Frank J. Polozola to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster relief benefits. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General, and the West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. As a result of her guilty plea, MARTIN 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 MARTIN 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-nine.

26 February 2007 FEMA Fraud - Hafford Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, TO 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.

JUANA G. HAFFORD, age 48, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty today before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster relief benefits. The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. As a result of her guilty plea, HAFFORD 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 HAFFORD 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-nine.

21 February 2007 FEMA Fraud - N Johnson Indictment - L Dunn Guilty Plea

ANOTHER INDICTED, ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, TO FEDERAL FRAUD CHARGES

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

NYOKI JOHNSON, age 27, 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. Secret Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General. If convicted, JOHNSON faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

LATOYA K. DUNN, age 29, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty today before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson 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. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. As a result of her guilty plea to count one of the indictment, DUNN 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 DUNN is sentenced on count one.

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-nine.

21 February 2007 Dunn Indictment

INDICTMENT IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON BANK FRAUD CHARGES

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced today that on February 15, 2007, a federal grand jury in the Middle District of Louisiana returned an eleven count indictment against LINDA S. DUNN, also known as Linda S. Hinton, age 55, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on bank fraud charges, money laundering, and illegal monetary transaction. The indictment alleges that from at least April 2000 until April 2003, DUNN, while an assistant manager and loan officer at the East Baton Rouge Teachers Federal Credit Union located on Plank Road in Baton Rouge, took out fictitious loans in the names of friends and family members, using these individuals’ social security numbers and dates of birth on the loans.

DUNN’s alleged scheme was discovered in April 2003 during a routine examination by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), which uncovered numerous signatory loans that were delinquent but that had not been reported to the NCUA as required under NCUA regulations. The indictment charges over $150,000 in fictitious loans created by DUNN were discovered during the NCUA examination.

If convicted on all counts, DUNN faces a maximum sentence of sixty years imprisonment.

The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Catherine M. Maraist.

14 February 2007 FEMA Fraud - Turner Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, TO 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.

WANDA TURNER, age 28, of New Iberia, Louisiana, pled guilty today before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson to a bill of information charging her with access device fraud in connection with her obtaining disaster unemployment benefits for alleged losses resulting from Hurricane Rita. The bill of information charges that from on or about October 31, 2005, to on or about May 19, 2006, TURNER defrauded the Louisiana Department of Labor
(LDOL) and the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) by applying for benefits to which she was not entitled under the disaster unemployment assistance program. The
case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. As a result of her guilty plea, TURNER faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) 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 eighty-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.

13 February 2007 Honeywell Bill of Information

HONEYWELL CHARGED WITH VIOLATING THE FEDERAL CLEAN AIR ACT

BATON ROUGE, LA - United States Attorney David R. Dugas, Special Agent-in- Charge Warren Amburn of the Environmental Protection Agency, Criminal Investigation Division ("EPA-CID"), Colonel Henry Whitehorn, Superintendent of the Louisiana State Police, and Harold Leggett of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality announced today that Honeywell International Inc. ("Honeywell") has been charged through a bill of information with
negligently causing the release of hazardous air pollutants and negligently placing another person in imminent danger of death, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 7413(c)(4)
(federal Clean Air Act). Honeywell has authorized this office to disclose that it has entered into a plea agreement wherein it has agreed to plead guilty and pay a total of $12,000,000 in fines and
restitution. The arraignment has not yet been set.

Today's charge stems from an ongoing investigation into an incident which occurred in the summer of 2003 at Honeywell's Baton Rouge Plant. The bill of information alleges that, on
July 29, 2003, Delvin Henry, an employee at the Baton Rouge Plant, opened a one-ton cylinder, which had been erroneously labeled as containing relatively benign refrigerant. Once opened,
approximately 1800 pounds of spent antimony pentachloride, which is highly toxic and corrosive hazardous material, were violently released from the cylinder. Mr. Henry was struck by the
material and died the following day from his injuries.

Through the plea agreement, Honeywell has agreed to pay a criminal fine of $8,000,000, restitution of $2,000,000 to Mr. Henry's three children, community restitution of $750,000 to the
Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, community restitution valued at $750,000 to the Louisiana State Police Hazardous Materials Unit, and community restitution valued at
$500,000 to the Louisiana State Police Emergency Operations Center. This would constitute the largest criminal fine and restitution award in the history of the Middle District of Louisiana.

Honeywell has cooperated fully throughout the lengthy investigation and has taken significant measures to ensure that such an incident is not repeated. While the incident itself
occurred in 2003, the bill of information alleges that much of the negligent conduct occurred in the mid-to-late 1990s involving many individuals who no longer work for Honeywell.

U.S. Attorney Dugas stated: "The U.S. Department of Justice is committed to working with our federal and state partners to enforce our nation's environmental laws and ensure the
safety of our workers. This case demonstrates that great success can come when various agencies come together in a cooperative effort." Dugas continued, "Corporations, like individuals, have a responsibility to comply with the law and a failure to do so will not be tolerated. Honeywell has done the right thing by accepting responsibility and cooperating with the investigation."

Harold Leggett of the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality stated: "While this is a very tragic event that occurred at the Honeywell facility in Baton Rouge, the Department has worked with and will continue to work with EPA-CID, the U.S. Department of Justice, and Honeywell to address environmental noncompliances at the facility."

"Honeywell put an innocent worker in harm's way by not complying with the law. His tragic death could have been avoided," said Granta Y. Nakayama, EPA's Assistant Administrator
for Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. AEPA will aggressively enforce against corporations and individuals whose negligent behavior threatens human health and the environment."

"This case illustrates the terrible consequences that can result from environmental crimes," said Warren Amburn, the Special Agent-in-Charge of EPA's criminal investigation office in Dallas. "Honeywell needs to make sure this never happens again."

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Corey R. Amundson. The arraignment has yet to be set.

12 February 2007 FEMA Fraud - Reed Guilty Plea

ANOTHER PLEADS GUILTY IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA,
TO 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.

MICHAEL D. REED, age 57, of Loranger, Louisiana, pled guilty today before U.S. District Court Judge Frank J. Polozola to a bill of information charging him with access device fraud in connection with his obtaining disaster unemployment benefits for alleged losses resulting from Hurricane Katrina. The bill of information charges that from on or about September 20, 2005, to on or about May 10, 2006, REED defrauded the Louisiana Department
of Labor (LDOL) and the Federal Emergency Management Administration (FEMA) by applying for benefits to which he was not entitled under the disaster unemployment assistance program.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. As a result of his guilty plea, REED faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) 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 eighty-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.

7 February 2007 FEMA Fraud - Martin - Hall Indictments

TWO MORE INDICTED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FRAUD CHARGES RELATED TO A HURRICANE DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAM

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

OLIVER MARTIN, JR., age 57, of Port Allen, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. If convicted, MARTIN faces a
maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

JACETHEN K. HALL, age 37, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged in a two-count indictment by a federal grand jury with mail fraud (Count One) and with illegal conversion of government property, that is, a check from FEMA for expedited disaster assistance (Count Two). The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. If convicted on Count One, HALL faces a maximum sentence of thirty years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, or both.
If convicted on Count Two, HALL faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

Today’s indictments bring 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-
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.

5 February 2007 Ficklin Guilty Plea

SITTING SHERIFF PLEADS GUILTY TO TRAFFICKING IN STOLEN
MOTOR VEHICLES, REMOVING AND ALTERING MOTOR VEHICLE IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS, MAIL FRAUD, AND AIDING AND ABETTING POSSESSION OF A FIREARM BY A CONVICTED FELON

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced that RONALD R. “GUN” FICKLIN, age 53, Sheriff of St. Helena Parish, pled guilty today to seventeen counts of a superseding indictment as follows: one count of trafficking in motor vehicles and motor vehicle parts with removed and altered identification numbers, one count of removing and altering motor vehicle identification numbers, fourteen counts of mail fraud,
and one count of aiding and abetting possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

The superseding indictment charged that FICKLIN participated in the operation of a “chop shop” in St. Helena parish at which the VINs of stolen vehicles were replaced with VINs from salvaged vehicles purchased at auction. Barry Edward Dawsey, James Jackson, Mitchell Tidwell, Denman Cutrer and Kevin Simmons have pled guilty in federal court to charges related to their participation in the chop shop.

FICKLIN could receive the following maximum sentences: on Count Three, ten years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, or both; on Count Six, five years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, or both; on each of Counts Seven through Twenty, five years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, or both; and on Count Twenty-One, ten years
imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, or both. The total maximum sentence on all counts is 95 years imprisonment, a fine of $4,250,000, or both. In addition, the Court must impose a
special assessment of $1700, which defendant agrees to pay at the time of sentencing. The Court may also order restitution in accordance with law.

James Bernazzani, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s New Orleans Division, commented that “Public corruption is a matter not to be tolerated. The resources of the New Orleans Division of the FBI are dedicated to investigating and assisting in the prosecution of these types of cases.” Bernazzani further stated, “This guilty plea is the culmination of years of dedicated investigation by the Baton Rouge office of the FBI.”

“BATF is proud of its role in bringing to justice a law enforcement officer who broke this nation’s gun laws. BATF takes seriously its duty to prevent prohibited persons from illegally possessing firearms regardless of their status or rank in the community” stated Dave Harper, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New Orleans Field Division.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Louisiana State Police; the Mississippi Highway Patrol; and the Mississippi Department of Agriculture; and was prosecuted by
Assistant United States Attorneys M. Patricia Jones and Ian F. Hipwell.

1 February 2007 FEMA Fraud - Davis Sentencing

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

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

THERESA DAVIS, age 50, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on September 5, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging her with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. DAVIS was sentenced today to a term of imprisonment of
twelve months, three years of supervised release, $16,749.51 in restitution payable to FEMA, and 100 hours of community service. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service 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-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.

1 February 2007 FEMA Fraud - Ridgely - Quinn Indictment - Wagner Sentencing

TWO MORE INDICTED, ANOTHER SENTENCED IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON FRAUD CHARGES RELATED TO A HURRICANE DISASTER RELIEF PROGRAM

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

REGMOND D. RIDGELY, age 38, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged in a two- count indictment by a federal grand jury with mail fraud (Count One) and with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster assistance benefits (Count Two). The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. If convicted on Count One, RIDGELY faces a maximum sentence of thirty years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count Two, RIDGELY faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

CHRISTOPHER R. QUINN, age 22, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged in a two- count indictment by a federal grand jury with mail fraud (Count One) and with illegal conversion of government property, that is, a check from FEMA for expedited disaster assistance (Count Two). The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. If convicted on Count One, QUINN faces a maximum sentence of thirty years imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, or both. If convicted on Count Two, QUINN faces a maximum sentence of ten years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.

GENEVA MARIA WAGNER, age 32, of Metairie, Louisiana, pled guilty on September 20, 2006, to an indictment charging her with wire fraud in obtaining disaster unemployment benefits for alleged losses resulting from Hurricane Katrina. WAGNER was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge James J. Brady to a term of imprisonment of one day, five years of supervised release, and $8,253 in restitution. The U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation of this matter.

Today’s indictments bring 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-
six.

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.

25 January 2007 FEMA Fraud - L Jackson Sentencing

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

BATON ROUGE, LA – Another Louisiana resident was sentenced today in federal court 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.

LEONARD JACKSON, age 56, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 24, 2006, to Count One of an indictment charging him with making a false claim for Hurricane Katrina disaster assistance benefits. JACKSON was sentenced to three years of probation and
$2,000 in restitution. The U.S. Secret Service 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-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.

17 January 2007 FEMA Fraud - Wade 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.

JUANITA WADE, age 34, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty today before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Ralph E. Tyson to a bill of information charging her with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster assistance benefits. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; and the West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. As a result of her guilty plea,
WADE 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 eighty-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.

10 January 2007 Williams, Pruitt, Williams, Patton, Drummer Indicted

INDICTMENT IN BATON ROUGE, LOUISIANA, ON CHARGES OF
CONSPIRACY TO FILE FALSE CLAIMS FOR INCOME TAX REFUNDS,
AND FOR MAKING FALSE CLAIMS FOR INCOME TAX REFUNDS

BATON ROUGE, LA – United States Attorney David R. Dugas announced that a 21- count indictment was returned today by a federal grand jury, charging five former employees of a nationwide retailer of athletic shoes with conspiring to file false claims for federal income tax refunds in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 286. DARRIN KEITH WILLIAMS, 35, of Baton Rouge, FARAUN KENNOTIS PRUITT, 32, of Houston, Texas, JOSHUA RAMON WILLIAMS, 29, of Shreveport, KARLOS D’ANDREA PATTON, 32, of
Lufkin, Texas, and REGINALD DANE DRUMMER, 28, of Baton Rouge, were each charged in the conspiracy count, and all defendants were also charged with varying separate counts connected with the conspiracy, for making and causing to be made false claims for income tax refunds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 287.

The indictment alleges that between December 2001 and April 2002, the five former employees of the retail shoe store committed the fraud by causing fraudulent income tax returns
to be filed over the internet, and usually with refund anticipation loans, also known as “RALs.” All RALs were sought through Santa Barbara Bank and Trust, a California bank authorized by
the Internal Revenue Service to participate in such a program in order for a taxpayer to get near instant access to anticipated refund amounts. The indictment alleges approximately 107 false tax returns were caused to be filed, seeking approximately $249,188 in unauthorized funds from the United States.

The indictment charges that the defendants caused the fraudulent returns to be filed with false employment, wage, and withholding amounts listed in order to obtain money to which they were not entitled. They are charged with persuading other people to give them their names, social security numbers, and dates of birth, and asking some of those people to obtain the same type of information from others. The defendants promised money from a government program or the filing of a legitimate tax return that would get them more money than they would otherwise receive in exchange for this information. The defendants are also charged with utilizing numerous other bank accounts to receive RAL proceeds in order to avoid depositing too many RALS in one particular account.

The conspiracy count carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss caused, or $250,000. Each substantive count of making or causing a false claim to be made, carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 5 years and a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss caused, or $250,000.

In addition to the conspiracy count, DARRIN WILLIAMS is charged with three substantive counts of making and causing to be made false claims for income tax refunds. If convicted of all counts he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 25 years and a fine the
greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss caused, or $1 million dollars.

In addition to the conspiracy count, PRUITT is charged with six substantive counts of making and causing to be made false claims for income tax refunds. If convicted of all counts he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years and a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss caused, or $1,750,000.

In addition to the conspiracy count, JOSHUA WILLIAMS is charged with five substantive counts of making and causing to be made false claims for income tax refunds. If convicted of all counts he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 35 years and a fine the
greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss caused, or $1,500,000.

In addition to the conspiracy count, PATTON is charged with four substantive counts of making and causing to be made false claims for income tax refunds. If convicted of all counts he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years and a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss caused, or $1,250,000.

In addition to the conspiracy count, DRUMMER is charged with three substantive counts of making and causing to be made false claims for income tax refunds. If convicted of all counts he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 25 years and a fine the greatest of twice the gross gain, twice the gross loss caused, or $1 million dollars.

This case was investigated by special agents of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ian F. Hipwell. No court date has yet been set for the defendants to appear.

IRS Criminal Investigation, New Orleans Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Rodney E. Clarke, commented that “the object of these schemes is to defraud the government and the taxpaying public. In this case, IRS-CI identified and investigated the persons involved in this scheme. This investigation resulted in today’s indictment. The message this indictment sends is that participation in these types of fraudulent refund schemes does not pay and those involved will be vigorously prosecuted.”

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

10 January 2007 FEMA Fraud - Martin - Williams Indictments

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

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

BETTY R. MARTIN, age 41, of Port Allen, 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 Federal Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; and the West Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office. If convicted, MARTIN faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

LISA M. WILLIAMS, age 38, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was charged in a three-count indictment by a federal grand jury with making a false and fraudulent claim for disaster assistance benefits, making false and fraudulent statements to FEMA, and illegal use of a Social Security number. The charges resulted from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of nvestigation; U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General; Social Security Administration; and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General. If convicted, WILLIAMS faces a maximum sentence of five years
imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both, per count.

Today’s indictments bring 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-
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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