Shampain Poole, Carjacking, Louisiana 2023

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Shampain Poole, 22, of Slidell, Louisiana, is facing a serious federal rap after being indicted by a grand jury on May 5, 2023, on charges stemming from a violent carjacking. The feds allege Poole isn’t just a thief, but a dangerous offender already barred from possessing firearms.

According to the indictment, Poole is charged with carjacking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1). But the charges don’t stop there. He’s also accused of brandishing a firearm during the commission of the crime, a move that could significantly lengthen his potential sentence under Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii). To add insult to injury, Poole is further charged with being a convicted felon illegally possessing a firearm, violating Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). It’s a trifecta of trouble for the Slidell resident.

If convicted on the carjacking count, Poole could face up to 15 years in prison, a hefty $250,000.00 fine, and three years of supervised release. However, the real kicker is the potential sentence for brandishing a firearm during a violent crime. That carries a minimum of seven years, potentially escalating to a life sentence, consecutive to any other sentence he receives. A $250,000.00 fine and five years of supervised release also loom large. The final charge, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, carries a maximum of 15 years imprisonment, another $250,000.00 fine, and three years of supervised release. On top of it all, a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee will be added to each count if he’s found guilty.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans was quick to point out that the indictment is merely an accusation, and Poole is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. “We will vigorously prosecute this case and ensure justice is served,” a source close to the investigation stated. The investigation was a joint effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the New Orleans Police Department.

This case is being touted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering collaboration between law enforcement and local communities. The DOJ launched a strengthened version of PSN in May 2021, focusing on building trust, supporting community organizations, prioritizing enforcement, and meticulously tracking results. Whether PSN can truly deliver on its promises remains to be seen, but the feds are clearly using it to highlight their efforts in cracking down on violent offenders.

Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any developments as they unfold. Poole’s next court date has not yet been announced, but expect a fight. With the weight of federal charges and a potentially lengthy prison sentence hanging over his head, Poole is likely to mount a vigorous defense. The question remains: can he beat the feds, or is a long stretch behind bars in his future?

Related Federal Cases