New Orleans, LA Criminal Defense Attorney News Archive (Page 5)

Milton Martin III, a former pastor from St. Bernard, has been sentenced to seven years in prison for inappropriate conduct with juveniles. This ruling, reported on February 11, follows his conviction in December 2025. At 56 years old, Martin will also be required to register as a sex offender for 15 years following his release.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill underscored the state’s commitment to child safety, stating, "If you hurt our kids, you will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law.” This case highlights the serious implications of civil litigation and criminal defense in matters concerning the safety of children.

Legal professionals in New Orleans are closely observing the ongoing developments in this case, particularly as it relates to potential wills and estates issues stemming from such serious offenses.

Two tragic car accidents in Lafourche Parish, Louisiana, have led to the deaths of Kenneth McMillan, 52, and Wayne Mayet, 61. Louisiana State Police are currently investigating these incidents.

The first accident involved McMillan, whose Toyota was in a head-on collision with a Chevrolet on U.S. Highway 90 after veering off the road. The second accident occurred on Louisiana Highway 1, where Mayet was cycling and was struck by a Ford after failing to yield at Bayou Vista Drive.

In light of these events, personal injury law experts and local criminal defense attorneys are advising the affected families to explore their legal options. As investigations unfold, Lafourche Parish is facing the repercussions of these accidents, prompting community leaders to advocate for enhanced road safety measures.

Don Lemon, the well-known journalist and former CNN anchor, is scheduled to appear in federal court in Minnesota over charges related to a protest at Cities Church in St. Paul. This development adds to his ongoing legal challenges tied to allegations of civil wrongdoing.

Federal authorities have accused Lemon and independent journalist Georgia Fort of unlawfully disrupting a church service and intimidating attendees during an anti-ICE demonstration that occurred on January 18. Legal expert Joseph H. Thompson, a former federal prosecutor, is representing Lemon in this serious case, which includes conspiracy to infringe upon constitutional rights and potential violations of the FACE Act.

Lemon maintains that he was simply performing his journalistic duties at the protest, which has garnered significant attention in New Orleans and surrounding areas. This unfolding situation raises important questions about free expression and how criminal defense is intertwined with media activities.

Federal prosecutors in New Orleans have decided to drop serious charges against two Venezuelan men, Alfredo Alejandro Aljorna and Julio Cesar Sosa-Celis. This decision comes after new evidence emerged that challenges the initial claims made by immigration authorities.

The case was centered around an incident that occurred on January 14, during a traffic stop involving U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers. Conflicting witness accounts raised doubts about the alleged assaults on a federal agent, prompting prosecutors to reassess the situation.

Local attorneys Frederick Goetz and Robin Wolpert represented Aljorna and Sosa-Celis, arguing that both men, who have no prior violent criminal records, were simply trying to escape an unjust situation with law enforcement. Their defense highlights ongoing concerns about federal agents' use of lethal force in immigration enforcement cases.

The decision to dismiss the charges underscores larger issues within civil litigation and criminal defense related to immigration law in the New Orleans area.

Antoine Massey, an inmate who escaped from the Orleans Justice Center, has been sentenced to a total of 60 years for kidnapping and second-degree rape of his former partner. A St. Tammany Parish jury delivered a unanimous verdict in December 2025, following a trial that revealed the disturbing details of Massey’s violent assault and the abduction of the victim between Slidell and New Orleans.

The local District Attorney’s office underscored the importance of justice in domestic violence cases, noting that Massey also faced charges for battery and violating a protective order. The victim's brave decision to seek help in New Orleans played a crucial role in ensuring Massey’s conviction, allowing him to face the consequences of his criminal actions.

Legal experts highlight how cases like this are vital in enhancing civil litigation related to family law and strengthening domestic violence protections in the community.

The New Orleans Police Department has charged two women in connection with serious allegations of child abuse linked to an incident at Arthur Ashe School. Detectives from the Special Victims Division report that three assistant teachers are accused of locking a non-verbal autistic child in a closet, which led to a panic attack.

After being informed of the misconduct, school authorities acted quickly to remove the educators involved. Monette Marie Angelain, 52, has surrendered to the police; however, 37-year-old Jenea Cionne Gordon and 47-year-old Patrice Denise Ancar are still at large.

As this case develops, it raises significant concerns regarding civil litigation related to child safety in educational settings, emphasizing the importance of accountability in schools. The ongoing investigation also brings to light broader issues related to employment practices within educational institutions.

An 18-year-old man, Keldric Harry, has been convicted by a Washington Parish jury for his role in a tragic shooting at Bogalusa High School near New Orleans. The incident occurred during a basketball game in January 2024.

District Attorney Collin Sims announced that Harry was found guilty of second-degree murder and attempted murder, with co-defendant Hakheim Young also implicated in the case. Witnesses testified that Harry used an automatic weapon to target victims following a minor property dispute.

Sims emphasized the serious legal repercussions for those involved, highlighting the community’s commitment to justice. He also pointed out the vital role of civil litigation in addressing violent crimes in the area.

Sentencing for Harry is set for April 20 and will be a pivotal moment in the ongoing fight against such acts in the New Orleans region.

Civil rights attorney Marcus Jones, along with community leaders in New Orleans, recently held a gathering to advocate for significant reforms in the criminal justice system and corporate regulations. They called for a penal system that prioritizes rehabilitation over profit, reflecting community sentiments about the vital links between these reforms, democracy, and voting rights.

Residents came together at a backyard Penny Party, sharing ideas on how to build collaboration toward a brighter future for all citizens in the Crescent City. The discussions emphasized the need for equal representation and impactful business practices as essential steps toward achieving true equality.

This event represented a crucial moment in the ongoing dialogue surrounding civil litigation, criminal defense, and community empowerment in the New Orleans area.

In a troubling development, 23-year-old Tykeim A. Simoneaux, a former deputy from St. James Parish, has been arrested amid serious allegations of indecent behavior with juveniles. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill confirmed these charges, which stemmed from an extensive investigation initiated by a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

The investigation uncovered that Simoneaux allegedly solicited minors for explicit imagery and videos. St. James Parish Sheriff Claude J. Louis Jr. stressed that this incident does not represent the values of the St. James Parish Sheriff’s Office, which upholds high ethical standards.

Simoneaux faces multiple charges, including malfeasance in office and obstruction of justice. His immediate termination highlights the priority placed on child protection within the region's civil litigation and law enforcement initiatives. This case not only reflects a commitment to accountability but also underscores the broader efforts in criminal defense against such offenses in New Orleans and nearby areas, ensuring justice for victims.

In the early hours of February 12, a tragic shooting in Hollygrove, New Orleans, resulted in the death of a man who was found with multiple gunshot wounds on Hamilton Street. Emergency Medical Services quickly transported the victim to a nearby hospital, but unfortunately, he later succumbed to his injuries.

The New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) detectives are actively working to gather evidence and explore leads to identify a potential suspect and the motive behind this incident. As the investigation unfolds, legal experts specializing in civil litigation and criminal defense in New Orleans are paying close attention. The developments in this case may have implications for personal injury law, particularly concerning the victim's family.

Meanwhile, the Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office is preparing to release the victim's identity once the autopsy is completed and family notifications have been made.

Joshua W. Dugger, a 42-year-old man from Slidell, was arrested on February 6 as part of a child sexual exploitation investigation involving multiple agencies, including the Louisiana State Police, the FBI, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Covington Police Department.

This case, which intersects with civil litigation and has potential implications for criminal defense proceedings, has ignited concerns about employment safety and child protection in the New Orleans area. Authorities allege that Dugger engaged in explicit conversations with someone he believed to be a minor, highlighting the alarming issue of online predation.

In response to the situation, legal experts and local officials are calling for comprehensive criminal investigations to ensure justice is served and to deter future incidents in the community. This unfolding case underscores the urgent need for increased awareness regarding child safety issues across Southern Louisiana.

A tragic shooting in Lutcher, Louisiana, claimed the life of 19-year-old Damon Joshua Summerlin on Saturday night. His 17-year-old cousin was also injured in the incident, which unfolded near Regions Bank at around 11:05 p.m.

The St. James Parish Sheriff's Office responded quickly to the reports of gunfire, where they found both victims and began lifesaving measures. This heartbreaking event has sparked serious concerns about public safety in the community and the urgent need for effective criminal defense measures.

Local attorneys specializing in personal injury law are calling on witnesses to step forward. They emphasize that accountability is crucial in the face of such violence. Anyone with information about the shooting is encouraged to contact the St. James Parish Sheriff's Office at 225-562-2200.

Chadarius Morehead, 30, recently took the stand in an ongoing trial in Baton Rouge that questions the constitutionality of forced labor at the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola. During his testimony, he shared harrowing experiences that evoke memories of slavery.

This case, led by organizations such as Voice of the Experienced (VOTE), is supported by dedicated lawyers Lydia Wright and Samantha Pourciau. They allege serious civil rights violations committed by the Louisiana Department of Public Safety & Corrections, including inadequate medical care for incarcerated workers.

Morehead's powerful testimony sheds light on systemic issues within correctional facilities, drawing parallels to broader discussions about corporate responsibility and the treatment of laborers. This critical legal battle emphasizes the urgent need for reform in Louisiana's prison labor practices, underlining the importance of maintaining dignity for all individuals, regardless of their convictions.

As the trial progresses, it highlights significant implications for both criminal defense and civil litigation in a state with a complex history of forced labor.

In a gripping courtroom session, Chadarius Morehead, a 30-year-old witness from Monroe, Louisiana, shared his distressing experiences working on the Angola Farm Line. His testimony highlighted serious systemic issues related to forced labor in state prisons. Over three days, he recounted vivid and haunting stories that evoke images reminiscent of slavery.

U.S. District Judge Brian Jackson presided over the proceedings in Baton Rouge, where representatives from the advocacy group VOTE presented their case. Attorney Lydia Wright emphasized that these outdated practices violate federal disability law and the Eighth Amendment. The support from officials and advocates present underscored the historical injustices tied to this exploitative labor system.

Samantha Pourciau, a senior attorney with the Promise of Justice Initiative, joined the call for change, condemning the blatant disregard for inmate dignity and wellbeing in New Orleans' correctional facilities. This high-stakes trial represents a crucial moment for civil litigation and criminal defense in Louisiana as it seeks to address the constitutional implications of forced labor.

Judge R. Christopher Cox III has handed down a significant sentence to a Marrero resident for the manslaughter of Wayne Martin, who was tragically shot during his birthday celebration near an Ames Boulevard lounge in 2022. The convicted individual, identified as Bazley, has been sentenced to 60 years in prison. Despite his claims of self-defense, Bazley faced additional charges related to firearm possession due to his prior criminal record, which includes a 2008 drug offense.

The Jefferson Parish District Attorney’s Office underscored the seriousness of Bazley's criminal history, prompting the court to re-evaluate his initial 40-year sentence. This ruling has garnered considerable attention in New Orleans, as it touches upon critical issues within the realms of criminal justice and public safety, particularly concerning firearm possession laws and their implications for business and corporate interests.

Legal experts highlight that the verdict serves as a reminder of the necessity for strict measures against repeat offenders, a crucial factor in fostering community safety and integrity.

NEW ORLEANS — A tragic incident unfolded late at night on February 5, when a driver was fatally struck after exiting their vehicle on the I-10 Westbound Little Woods exit. The New Orleans Police Department is currently investigating the circumstances of this devastating event.

As authorities gather information, local legal professionals specializing in civil litigation, criminal defense, and personal injury law are preparing for potential wrongful death claims related to this incident. The victim was attempting to navigate the interstate after a collision with an unknown object when they were hit by multiple vehicles and sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

The Orleans Parish Coroner’s Office is expected to release the victim’s identity following an autopsy. Meanwhile, community leaders are calling for enhanced safety measures on local highways. This incident underscores ongoing concerns about roadway safety and its legal implications for families affected in the New Orleans East region.

The Seven Who Make It Happen, a youth council within the Orleans Parish juvenile jail, has made an urgent appeal to city leaders. They are highlighting two critical issues that are impacting New Orleans: a significant lack of opportunities for young people and the vital need for parental accountability. The council points out that systemic failures in education and mental health support only make it harder for youth, many of whom find themselves stranded in cycles of criminality.

Local legal voices, including criminal defense attorney Mark C. Edwards and civil litigation expert Jessica Lynn, emphasize that tackling these issues could change the narrative for New Orleans youth. They believe that fostering an atmosphere of dialogue and understanding is essential for driving real change. By addressing these pressing concerns, they argue, juvenile crime could be decreased, leading to brighter futures for the youth of New Orleans.

With a strong call for increased resources, mentorship, and new opportunities, the young people of New Orleans are determined to redefine their future and challenge the existing status quo.

In a surprising development, Tom Homan, who served as the immigration czar under the Trump administration, announced that 700 federal enforcement officers will be immediately withdrawn from Minnesota. This decision highlights a newfound emphasis on collaborating with state and local officials.

The announcement comes in response to ongoing tensions in the Twin Cities, particularly after the tragic fatal shooting of protester Alex Pretti. Homan noted that the strategy moving forward will prioritize local compliance and advocate for the transfer of arrested immigrants to ICE as a safer alternative.

This move occurs amid criticism of the administration's tactics regarding criminal apprehensions, especially in areas with sanctuary policies like New Orleans. The local government there has often limited cooperation with federal immigration agents.

As the debate continues over the intersection of public safety and immigration policy, Homan's comments hint at a possible shift in focus for future operations, particularly in southern regions.

In a troubling incident near the renowned Dooky Chase restaurant in New Orleans, 19-year-old Makahi Kelly and 22-year-old Anthony Johnson have been denied bail. They face serious charges connected to the homicide of 19-year-old Kareem Harris and injuries sustained by three tourists.

Rafael Goyeneche, president of the Metropolitan Crime Commission, expressed concerns about the potential flight risk of the suspects if bail were granted. He underscored the gravity of the accusations, which could lead to life sentences. Goyeneche also criticized the previous judicial decision that allowed Kelly, who had a prior robbery conviction, to remove his ankle monitor. He argued that this failure contributed to Kelly's alleged involvement in the tragic shooting.

Community advocate Mike Willis supported these concerns, highlighting the urgent need to tackle systemic issues that are fueling rising juvenile crime rates in the region.

On the other hand, Johnson's attorney maintains that his client is not involved in the violent incident, asserting he was only providing a ride. Both defendants are now preparing for their upcoming legal proceedings.

In a shocking turn of events during a parade in Clinton, Louisiana, the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested six individuals in connection with an attempted massacre that occurred on Saturday. Among those taken into custody are 18-year-old D’Treylin White and 21-year-old Kameron Barfield, both facing serious charges of attempted murder and firearm violations.

District Attorney Sam D’Aquilla has stated that a juvenile suspect, 16-year-old Malik Liggins, will be tried as an adult, underscoring the gravity of the situation. These arrests come amid ongoing civil litigation focused on public safety at local events, raising significant concerns about the criminal defense strategies that may be employed by the accused.

As the investigation continues, lawmakers and elected officials from New Orleans and nearby areas are closely monitoring the developments. Their involvement highlights an urgent need for improved safety measures at community gatherings to prevent such incidents in the future.