Cantrell faces fraud and corruption charges

Prosecutors accuse Cantrell and a protection officer of using public funds for a personal relationship and trips.

New Orleans mayor Cantrell charged with fraud and corruption

Federal prosecutors allege LaToya Cantrell and her protection officer Jeffrey Vappie claimed he was on duty while they engaged in personal activities, including 14 trips. They are also accused of using a city owned apartment as a shared residence and of exchanging thousands of messages on WhatsApp with auto delete to hide the relationship and the payments.

U.S. Attorney Michael Simpson said the relationship did not itself constitute a crime but described a years long fraud scheme that used public money for personal ends by exploiting their power and their authority. Cantrell has said safety concerns during the Covid pandemic justified bringing a bodyguard, a claim prosecutors contest as she traveled alone on some occasions. The city says Cantrells lawyer will review the charges as Cantrell is set to leave office next year.

The case tests how a city leader balances personal security with public duty. It spotlights gaps in expense oversight and record keeping when a protection detail is involved. The use of secure messaging to hide actions raises questions about transparency in city government and the seriousness with which officials treat public funds. Beyond Cantrells political fate, the episode could push for stronger checks on how protection budgets are spent and how related travel is documented.

Highlights

Public trust is earned through clear rules and open records, not quiet loopholes.