Indictment of New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell
New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell was charged on Friday over allegations of maintaining “intimate relationships” with security personnel paid for by taxpayers, alongside conspiring to defraud the city of more than $70,000, as detailed in unsealed charges.
The 18-count indictment accuses Cantrell, 53, along with former New Orleans Police Department officer Jeffrey Bappy, of conspiracy, wire fraud, obstruction of justice, and providing false statements in front of a significant judge.
A spokesperson for council member JP Morell expressed to Fox News Digital, “We are aware of the indictment against Mayor Latoya Cantrell. It’s a sorrowful day for New Orleans. Our thoughts are with the Cantrell family during this challenging time.”
Another council member, Joe Giarrusso, commented on the situation, stating, “Everyone is presumed innocent under the law. Mayor Cantrell deserves that presumption.”
According to prosecutors, Cantrell and Bappy allegedly began a personal relationship around late 2021. They supposedly concealed it to maximize their togetherness while misusing their official roles for personal benefit.
The indictment reports that Bappy’s trips with Cantrell amount to over $70,000, excluding her own travel expenses.
Federal prosecutors claim these excursions included at least 14 trips to various cities like Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington, D.C., and Scotland. Bappy reportedly falsified a timesheet, indicating he worked in the mayor’s executive protection unit while participating in personal activities.
The indictment mentions that peers warned Cantrell to end the relationship, citing legal ramifications for having a romantic partner pay for work-related services, with references to past similar cases.
Notably, there’s mention of a personal exchange over WhatsApp, where Cantrell allegedly inquired about a ring in a message among other exchanged sentiments. These communications suggest an effort to obscure their relationship and misuse city resources.
While there were indications Bappy was engaged in personal activities during his alleged work hours, he has recently faced divorce filings from his wife, citing these alleged relationships.
The Pontalva apartment, where some of their relationship allegedly took place, is a historical city-owned property considered a ceremonial benefit for the mayor’s office.
Details in the allegations highlight attempts by Cantrell to delete incriminating messages and withhold evidence demanded by the authorities.
Cantrell’s administration has faced increased scrutiny due to various scandals, including controversies surrounding city sanitation contracts and conflicts with city council officials.
Having served since 2017 and re-elected in 2021, Cantrell’s situation could have significant implications for the upcoming mayoral race in 2025. Council member Helena Moreno is viewed as a potential candidate to succeed her.
Cantrell’s past has also been marred with various ethical complaints and a failed recall effort that sought to challenge her leadership.
If convicted, Cantrell faces serious penalties: potentially up to five years for conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and up to 20 years for each wire fraud count or obstruction of justice charge.
As of now, Cantrell has not provided any comments regarding the charges against her.
