New Orleans' Mayor LaToya Cantrell and her bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie, have been charged with fraud and corruption amidst claims that they improperly utilized public funds to support their alleged romantic relationship. Prosecutors revealed on Friday that Cantrell and Vappie's relationship, which purportedly began in October 2021, included numerous instances where Vappie falsely claimed to be on duty during personal activities, including 14 domestic and international trips.
Neither Cantrell nor Vappie has issued any public statements regarding the allegations. The City of New Orleans has confirmed its awareness of the charges and stated that the mayor's defense is actively reviewing the matter. Federal prosecutors have asserted that Cantrell and Vappie used WhatsApp's secure messaging features to disseminate messages that would later delete themselves, in an effort to conceal their activities from scrutiny.
The investigation indicates that the couple misappropriated the use of a city-owned apartment as a shared residence while Vappie was allegedly on duty and receiving payment for his services. They reportedly undertook personal trips, including a visit to a vineyard in California, totaling $70,000, all while Vappie was purportedly working. When previously questioned about the trips, Cantrell justified her decision to travel with a bodyguard citing safety concerns during the Covid pandemic, a statement prosecutors have contested.
U.S. attorney Michael Simpson noted that while their personal relationship may not itself be a criminal offense, the actions taken to exploit public funds merit serious consideration. At a certain juncture, the public captured images of the pair dining together while Vappie alleged to be on duty, prompting Cantrell to file a police report and seek a restraining order against the photographer, according to prosecutors.
Additionally, they are accused of intimidating staff, lying to FBI agents, and providing false testimony to a grand jury. Should they be found guilty on any of the charges, Cantrell and Vappie could face lengthy prison sentences and significant fines, potentially exceeding $250,000 (£184,000). LaToya Cantrell, a Democrat, made history as the first female mayor of New Orleans in 2018 and is expected to conclude her term in January.
