A federal grand jury has indicted New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell on multiple corruption charges, making her the first sitting mayor in the city’s history to face federal prosecution.
At a Glance
- Indictment includes conspiracy, wire fraud, obstruction, and false statements
- Charges stem from alleged misuse of public funds linked to Cantrell’s bodyguard
- Prosecutors cite 15,000 WhatsApp messages and deleted communications
- At least 14 taxpayer-funded trips questioned, both domestic and international
- Cantrell denies wrongdoing and claims discriminatory targeting
Background & Allegations
LaToya Cantrell, who took office in 2018 and was re-elected in 2021, is the first woman and first Black woman to serve as mayor of New Orleans. She is term-limited and scheduled to leave office in January 2026. The indictment accuses Cantrell of conspiring with her police bodyguard, Jeffrey Paul Vappie II, to defraud taxpayers by disguising personal travel and time together as official business.
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According to prosecutors, Vappie claimed duty hours while accompanying Cantrell on at least 14 trips, including to Los Angeles, San Francisco, Orlando, Washington, D.C., Scotland, and the United Arab Emirates. The indictment alleges that taxpayers covered airfare, lodging, meals, and other expenses unrelated to legitimate city business. A city-owned apartment was also reportedly used for personal visits.
Evidence & Legal Charges
The grand jury returned 18 counts, including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, multiple wire fraud charges, obstruction of justice, and false declarations before a grand jury. Cantrell faces up to 20 years in prison per wire fraud count if convicted. Vappie was also charged with similar counts, including lying to the FBI during the investigation.
Federal filings detail extensive efforts to conceal the alleged misconduct. Investigators say Cantrell and Vappie exchanged more than 15,000 WhatsApp messages, many of which were deleted. The indictment also claims they used encrypted messaging apps, intimidated witnesses, and made false statements under oath to federal authorities.
Political Fallout & Public Response
The indictment has drawn immediate reactions across Louisiana. City Council President JP Morrell described it as “a sad day for the people of New Orleans,” while others emphasized the need for accountability in public office.
Cantrell has publicly rejected the charges, framing them as politically and racially motivated, and insisting she is being unfairly targeted as a Black woman in power. Federal prosecutors counter that the case is based on documented evidence and sworn testimony, not identity or politics.
The charges place Cantrell among a long line of Louisiana political figures entangled in corruption cases. While the state has a reputation for political scandals, Cantrell is the first sitting New Orleans mayor indicted while in office, marking a new precedent in the city’s history.
What Comes Next?
Cantrell is expected to be arraigned in federal court in the coming weeks. Legal proceedings could involve bail hearings, discovery, and the possibility of a lengthy trial. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has indicated more details will be released at upcoming press briefings.
Until then, the city faces an uncertain leadership landscape as New Orleans contends with the fallout from its highest officeholder facing federal prosecution.
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Author: Editor
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