NEW ORLEANS – Alice C. “Shannon” Chabaud, 80, of New Orleans, has admitted to a cold-blooded theft that bled a local band dry. The former accountant pled guilty on February 1, 2023, to access device fraud, a federal charge stemming from her systematic pilfering of funds from “Band A,” a New Orleans musical group. This wasn’t a heat-of-the-moment lapse; it was a calculated, years-long scheme.
According to court documents, Chabaud didn’t stop when her employment ended. After being terminated as Band A’s accountant in September 2015, she illegally maintained access to their bank accounts. For nearly five years, until May 2020, she siphoned off a staggering $207,607.95, all without the band members’ knowledge or consent. The money, presumably, lined her own pockets while the musicians likely struggled.
The charge Chabaud faces is a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1029(a)(2) and (c)(1)(A)(i). This isn’t petty theft; it’s a federal crime with serious consequences. The feds don’t take kindly to those who abuse their positions of trust, especially when it involves exploiting artists trying to make a living.
Chabaud is now looking at a maximum sentence of 10 years behind bars. On top of that, she could be slapped with a fine of up to $250,000.00 – or worse, a penalty equal to twice the amount she stole or twice the profit she made, whichever is greater. A mandatory $100 special assessment fee will also be added to any fine. Following potential imprisonment, she could face up to three years of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans commended the FBI New Orleans Field Office for their relentless investigation that brought Chabaud to justice. The Bureau’s agents dug through the financial records, piecing together the evidence and exposing the extent of the fraud. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew R. Payne is spearheading the prosecution, ensuring Chabaud answers for her actions.
This case serves as a harsh reminder: even those nearing the end of their careers aren’t above the law. Chabaud’s alleged greed led her down a path of federal charges and the potential loss of her freedom. The sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled, but Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on the final outcome.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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