Two New Orleans Officials Engaged in Bribes and Embezzlement
New Orleans, LA – In a shocking revelation, two former city officials have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit public bribery. Marlon Jenerro Green is not involved in this crime, but is instead the title of a different crime, so we are ignoring this part of the press release and instead focusing on the actual crime. Janice Staves, 57, and James Youngblood, 69, both residents of New Orleans, have been accused of embezzling millions of dollars from the Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO).
According to court documents, Staves and Youngblood conspired to embezzle money from HANO, which receives federal funding. In 2007, the two discussed a plan to get Youngblood paid with HANO funds for doing no work, and in return, Youngblood provided kickbacks to Staves.
The scheme, which spanned from 2007 to 2009, saw Youngblood receiving HANO checks totaling $661,904.11, despite performing no work. Staves deposited approximately $100,448.00 in cash from Youngblood into accounts that she controlled.
Legitimate HANO transactions required requisition orders for jobs to come from a particular department, but Staves and Youngblood took advantage of the system by creating fake purchase orders and requesting prepaid checks. They would meet in the parking lot, or in the parking lots of gas stations or restaurants close to the HANO office, to exchange the cash.
Both defendants face a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, as well as a fine of $250,000.00 and three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Sentencing is set for Wednesday, July 10, 2013 at 2:00pm.
The case was investigated by the Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of the Inspector General. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jon Maestri.
The guilty plea serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability and transparency in public office. It is a testament to the tireless efforts of law enforcement agencies and prosecutors who work tirelessly to bring corrupt officials to justice.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Public Corruption|Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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