📍 New Orleans, LA — August 16, 2025
In a stunning development, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has been indicted on federal charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, obstruction of justice, and making false statements, marking the first time a sitting mayor of the city has faced federal criminal charges.
The indictment, unsealed Friday by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, alleges that Cantrell engaged in a yearslong scheme with former New Orleans Police Department officer Jeffrey Vappie, who served on her Executive Protection Unit.
 Prosecutors claim the pair carried on a “personal and intimate relationship” while fraudulently billing the city for Vappie’s time and travel expenses during periods when he was allegedly on duty but instead engaged in personal activities with the mayor.
đź’Ľ Key Allegations:
•   Vappie accompanied Cantrell on at least 14 domestic and international trips, including visits to Napa Valley wineries and Martha’s Vineyard, while claiming to be working. The city reportedly paid over $70,000 for his travel expenses.
•   The pair allegedly used a city-owned apartment for personal rendezvous during hours Vappie claimed to be on duty.
•   Prosecutors recovered over 15,000 WhatsApp messages, photos, and audio clips exchanged between Cantrell and Vappie, which they say were used to coordinate their activities and conceal the relationship.
•   Cantrell is accused of deleting evidence and making false declarations before a federal grand jury.
🧑⚖️ Legal Fallout: Cantrell faces multiple counts, including:
•   Six counts of wire fraud
•   Two counts of making false declarations before a grand jury
•   One count of conspiracy to obstruct justice
Vappie, who retired in June 2024, faces additional charges including making false statements to the FBI and 12 counts of wire fraud.
🗣️ Public Reaction: City officials and council members expressed shock and concern. Councilman JP Morrell called it “a sad day for the people of New Orleans,” while Councilman Joe Giarrusso urged the public to “let the facts play out and not rush to judgment”.
Cantrell, who was elected in 2018 and re-elected in 2021 as the city’s first female mayor, has not publicly commented on the indictment. Her attorney, Eddie Castaing, confirmed receipt of the indictment and said he is reviewing the charges.
Cantrell’s term is set to end in January 2026. The indictment casts a shadow over her final months in office and raises questions about the future leadership of New Orleans.