Kevin Richardson, Public Corruption, Louisiana 2022

New Orleans, LA – In a shocking turn of events, Kevin Richardson, a 59-year-old former building inspector for the City of New Orleans, was sentenced to 30 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1952(a)(3) and 2, use of an interstate facility with intent to carry on unlawful activity.

According to court documents, Richardson exploited his position to solicit and accept approximately $65,000 in bribe payments from individuals seeking favorable inspection reports and certificates of completion for properties that did not comply with city and state building codes and for properties that had not been inspected.

Richardson also paid bribe money to a City of New Orleans permit analyst for the issuance of permits without proper documentation and plan review. The egregious nature of Richardson’s actions led to a severe sentence, making it clear that public corruption will not be tolerated in our city.

Richardson’s sentence will be followed by one year of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.

The City of New Orleans Office of Inspector General, Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, all contributed to the investigation that led to Richardson’s conviction.

Assistant United States Attorney Tracey N. Knight is prosecuting the matter.

The case serves as a stark reminder that those who abuse their power and engage in corrupt activities will be held accountable for their actions.

In this case, Richardson’s abuse of power led to a 30-month prison sentence and a $100 special assessment fee. This is a clear message to all those who would engage in similar corruption: you will be caught and you will be punished.

Related Federal Cases