New Orleans, Louisiana - In a significant breakthrough, the Louisiana State Police Insurance Fraud/Auto Theft Unit New Orleans Field Office (LSP-IFAT-NFO) has successfully recovered 72 out of 79 stolen vehicles, worth an estimated $4 million, and arrested multiple suspects in connection with a massive cargo theft incident at the Norfolk Southern rail yard in New Orleans.
The investigation, which began in November 2022, was a coordinated effort between LSP-IFAT-NFO, Homeland Security Investigations, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Norfolk Southern Police Department. The stolen vehicles, including newly manufactured cars destined for dealerships in the Gulf South region, were taken from the rail yard over a period of one week.
Through various investigative techniques, detectives were able to identify and apprehend 14 suspects from New Orleans and surrounding areas. The suspects, ranging in age from 20 to 42, were federally charged with multiple offenses, including aiding and abetting, conspiracy, and unlawful acts related to crimes of violence or drug trafficking. Additionally, three individuals were arrested on state charges for possession of stolen things.
The investigation also led to the seizure of multiple firearms, including illegally modified weapons, as well as varying quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, MDMA, marijuana, and fentanyl. The arrests have resulted in numerous state and federal indictments, with many of the accused individuals entering guilty pleas. Sentencing proceedings are currently underway for those awaiting judgment.
All of the following individuals were federally charged with at least two of the following offenses, and many were charged with several offenses. Aiding and Abetting, Conspiracy to commit offense or defraud the United States, Interstate or Foreign Shipments, Unlawful Acts, Penalties Relating to Crimes of Violence or Drug Trafficking, and Prohibited Acts relating to manufacturing, distributing, or possessing a controlled dangerous substance.
- Justin Henry (42) - New Orleans
- Jonathan Frank (40) - New Orleans
- Nickie Whitley (36) - New Orleans
- Derrin Riley (29) - New Orleans
- Mathew Maye (26) - New Orleans
- Anthony Roman (25) - New Orleans
- Darial Maye (25) - New Orleans
- Jonathan Gonzalez (25) - New Orleans
- Norman Andrews (24) - New Orleans
- Erin Murthil Jr. (21) - New Orleans
- Quintrell Brown (20) - New Orleans
- Mervyn Lucas (29) - Gretna
- Desmond Taylor (27) - Abbeville
- Malik Mack (27) - Belle Chasse
- Mister Mackey (22) - Slidell
The following individuals were arrested on state charges of Possession of Stolen Things.
- Leshonda Stewart (34) - Chalmette
- Lance Smith (31) - River Ridge
- Gerrin Brown (29) - New Orleans
An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.