New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell Indicted on Federal Corruption Charges
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell Indicted on Federal Corruption Charges
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell was indicted Friday, August 15, 2025, on federal charges, including conspiracy, fraud, and obstruction. Prosecutors allege a yearslong scheme to conceal a romantic relationship with her bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie, who is accused of being paid for work while meeting privately with the mayor and traveling with her on personal trips.
This 18-count indictment, which adds Cantrell to an existing case against Vappie, marks a historic moment as she becomes the first New Orleans mayor to be charged while in office. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael Simpson underscored the gravity of the charges, stating, “Public corruption has crippled us for years and years. And this is extremely significant.”
Authorities claim Cantrell and Vappie used encrypted WhatsApp messages to avoid detection and later deleted conversations, despite their public assertions of a strictly professional relationship. The indictment portrays their connection as “personal and intimate.” Taxpayers reportedly funded over $70,000 for Vappie’s travel, including a notable trip to Martha’s Vineyard where he allegedly accompanied Cantrell instead of attending a separate conference.
Prosecutors further allege that Cantrell lied in an affidavit about activating an automatic message deletion feature on her phone. Vappie, who retired from the police department in 2024, has pleaded not guilty to prior charges of wire fraud and making false statements.
The indictment comes less than five months before Mayor Cantrell is scheduled to leave office due to term limits. Her second term has been characterized by significant clashes with the City Council and a failed recall effort in 2022. Monet Brignac, a spokesperson for City Council President JP Morrell, remarked, “This is a sad day for the people of New Orleans.”
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