Federal Charges Filed Against New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell

New Orleans Mayor Latoya Cantrell, a Democrat, has been charged with federal offenses following allegations linked to a local police officer.

Cantrell, who is the city’s first female mayor, is accused of engaging in a romantic relationship with Jeffrey Paul Bappy II, an executive protection officer.

Court documents claim that she facilitated out-of-state trips that reportedly enabled the city to indulge in “personal activities” exceeding $70,000, which would be in addition to her travel expenses.

Prosecutors noted that both Cantrell and Bappy had received warnings about misconduct in 2022.

Michael Simpson, a U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana, stated in a press briefing on Friday, “Civil servants should be focused on serving the public, not their own interests.”

Cantrell, currently in her final term, faces accusations of making false statements and declarations before the Grand Jury.

The indictment claims that aware of their misconduct, Cantrell and Bappy attempted to divert and obstruct investigations regarding their relationship and alleged fraudulent plans. This purportedly included the use of encrypted messaging, intimidation of subordinates, misleading colleagues, and even removing electronic evidence to mislead federal investigators.

Cantrell is facing charges in the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana.

“This is a sad day for the people of New Orleans,” commented Monet Brignac, spokesperson for City Council President JP Morell. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the Cantrell family during this challenging time.”

Cantrell has previously expressed feelings of being targeted due to her race, describing the treatment she received as “very rude, insulting, and sometimes unimaginable.”

Attempts to reach the mayor’s office for a comment were made.

Updated at 5:27 PM