Sonja Dyson Evans, Bribery Scheme, Louisiana 2021

New Orleans, LA – In a shocking case of corruption, Sonja Dyson Evans, 58, a former employee of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, has pleaded guilty to a bribery scheme.

According to the bill of information, Evans was employed as a Criminal Records Division Supervisor at the time of the offense. From January 2016 through January 2017, Evans, along with co-defendant Shawanda Dove, used cell phones to carry out the bribery scheme, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 1952(a)(3) and 2.

Evans solicited and accepted bribe money from Dove in exchange for fraudulent bonds used for the release of incarcerated persons. The scheme was uncovered, and Evans is now facing the music.

Evans faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years incarceration, a $250,000 fine, a three (3) year term of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment of $100.00.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with Assistant United States Attorney Tracey Knight in charge of the prosecution.

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter.

In the end, Evans’ actions have put her on the path to prison, with a hefty fine and supervised release hanging over her head. The people of Louisiana deserve better from their public officials.

Evans’ plea deal is a reminder that corruption will not be tolerated in our communities. The people of Louisiana are entitled to honest public service, and Evans’ actions have fallen woefully short of that standard.

This case serves as a stark reminder of the importance of accountability in public office.

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