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Defendant Sentenced for Conspiring to Stage Automobile Accidents
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Marvel Francois, 54, of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced today for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on May 17, 2020, Francois, along with participants Damian Labeaud, Bernell Gale, Troy Smith, and another passenger, participated in a staged accident in the vicinity of Louisa Street and Chickasaw Street. Labeaud fled the scene. Francois falsely reported to the NOPD that she had been driving her Dodge Durango and that a tractor-trailer had struck her vehicle. Gale and Smith were previously sentenced before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk. Damian Labeaud’s sentencing is set for June 8, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon.
United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced Francois to 5 years probation, 100 hours of community service, payment of restitution in the amount of $20,654.48, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit and Financial Crimes Unit’s Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward Rivera, Maria Carboni and Brandon Long.
Francois was accused of participating in a staged accident with her co-conspirators, who were seeking to defraud insurance and trucking companies. This type of crime is often referred to as a ‘crash for cash’ scheme.
It is worth noting that Francois is not the first defendant to be sentenced in this case. Gale and Smith were previously sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk. Damian Labeaud’s sentencing is still pending.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to pursue those who engage in this type of criminal activity. We would like to thank the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, and the Metropolitan Crime Commission for their assistance in this matter.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Fraud & Financial Crimes
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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