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New Orleans mayor indicted in federal investigation
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NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has been indicted in a historic federal investigation.
On Friday, Aug. 15, a grand jury indicted Cantrell on charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, conspiracy to obstruct justice, false statements, obstruction of justice and false declaration before grand jury.
The indictment has been oncoming since 2024 following a lawsuit filed against Cantrell by Anne Breaud, who was accused of stalking the mayor after releasing pictures taken of her and Jeffery Vappie on a New Orleans balcony at dinner.
Vappie was a New Orleans Police Department officer assigned to Cantrell security detail.
A prior investigation placed Vappie at the center claiming he joined Cantrell on trips out of the state as well as documenting hours worked as a member of EPU while "covering up his personal activities including eating meals and drinking alcohol.
Through the investigation came a 2024 indictment against Vappie on counts of wire fraud as well as with perpetrating a scheme to defraud the New Orleans Police Department and making false statements to agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Additionally, personal messages were shared between Cantrell and Vappie via the WhatsApp.
Members of the New Orleans City Council released the following statements:
Everyone is presumed innocent under the law. Mayor Cantrell deserves that presumption. This unfortunately will be sensationalized because it involves the Mayor and will further impede the City’s operations. We should, however, let the facts play out and not rush to judgment.
Councilmember Joe Giarrusso
“The announcement today reminds us of the need to let the justice system work in a fair, timely fashion and without regard to politics or preference. I’m praying for Mayor Cantrell, her family, and all New Orleanians. These are critical times for our city to get back on track and to stay focused on building a city that works and thrives for everyone. Let us all hope for a swift resolution to the situation that will bring justice. We must unify as a city and focus on the challenges we face together.”
Councilmember Oliver M. Thomas
The mayor is entitled to a presumption of innocence and a vigorous defense. Councilmember Moreno’s focus remains on a new way forward for New Orleans. Restoring basic services, creating opportunity and putting people first will continue to be her priority.
Spokesperson for Councilmember Helena Moreno
“Our office is aware of the indictment that was filed today against Mayor LaToya Cantrell. This is a sad day for the people of New Orleans. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cantrell family as they navigate through this difficult time.”
Spokesperson for Council President JP Morrell
New Orleans deserves leadership that is honest, accountable, and dedicated to serving the public and making the City safe, clean, and economically sustainable. These are serious charges. I’ll be monitoring this matter closely.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill