New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell was indicted Friday on federal charges accusing her of misusing taxpayer money to fund trips with her police bodyguard during what prosecutors described as a years-long affair.
Cantrell, the city’s first female mayor, faces counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and making false statements to a grand jury, according to the indictment.
Her attorney, Eddie Castaing, confirmed the charges and said he is reviewing the indictment. “Until his review is complete, the City will not comment further on this matter,” the city said in a statement.
Alleged Relationship and Travel
Prosecutors allege Cantrell engaged in a romantic relationship between 2021 and 2024 with Officer Jeffrey Paul Vappie II, a member of the New Orleans Police Department’s executive protection unit. At the time, Cantrell was married to attorney Jason Cantrell, who died in August 2023.
The indictment says Cantrell and Vappie traveled together on 14 trips in eight months, some of them vacations disguised as official business. Prosecutors said the city spent roughly $70,000 on Vappie’s travel with the mayor, including trips that involved wine tastings.
“To hide their relations from detection and to maximize their time together, Cantrell and Vappie exploited their public positions to develop and implement a scheme to defraud the city of New Orleans,” the indictment states.
Investigators say the two exchanged more than 15,000 WhatsApp messages, photos, and audio clips over an eight-month span, which were also used to intimidate subordinates and conceal evidence.
Vappie’s Case
Vappie had already been indicted on wire fraud and making false statements and has pleaded not guilty. Cantrell was added to the case following further investigation into his actions.
Potential Penalties
If convicted, both face possible prison sentences ranging from five years to 20 years depending on the charge.
Cantrell, a Democrat who is term-limited, will leave office in January.
