LaToya Cantrell, the mayor of New Orleans, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on corruption charges linked to an alleged romantic relationship with her former bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie. The indictment, announced on Friday, makes Cantrell the first sitting mayor in the city's 307-year history to face federal criminal charges.
The charges allege that Cantrell and Vappie used city property and resources to foster their personal relationship. Vappie, a retired New Orleans police officer, is accused of being paid for protection duties while spending time with Cantrell, including on at least 14 out-of-state trips to locations such as Scotland and the United Arab Emirates. These trips reportedly cost the city over $70,000. The pair also allegedly used a city-owned apartment in the French Quarter for their meetings.
Prosecutors claim that Cantrell and Vappie attempted to conceal the relationship by using encrypted messaging and deleting thousands of messages. They are also accused of lying to federal agents, grand jurors, and colleagues. Additionally, Vappie allegedly tried to persuade the interim police superintendent to exonerate him, with Cantrell reportedly intervening to block her from a permanent appointment.
The indictment includes charges of wire fraud, obstruction of justice, conspiracy, false statements, and untrue declarations to a grand jury. The most serious charges carry up to 20 years in prison. Vappie had previously been charged in July 2024 with wire fraud and lying to FBI agents.
The investigation began during the Biden administration but was concluded under President Donald Trump. The acting US attorney, Michael Simpson, described the alleged actions as “an incredible betrayal” of public trust. Cantrell’s office said it would not comment until her attorney reviews the indictment.
