The indictment of Mayor LaToya Cantrell and her alleged lover, former NOPD Executive Security Jeffrey Vappie is the kind of national news Newman Orleans somehow cannot avoid. A city built on a swamp by pirates, slaves, prostitutes, free people of color and greedy Europeans, where illicit sexual relationships were the norm, is unfortunately still known for corruptions by people who consider themselves above the law.
Though there were many questionable probably illegal or at least unethical actions for which Cantrell might have been indicted, the easiest case for the federal government to you’d was over her years-long relationship with Vappie, a previously faithful husband and father from a “good” family. The 28-count superseding indictment charges Cantrell and Vappie with fraud, obstruction of justice and making false statements.
According to the indictment, in October 2021, Cantrell and Vappie developed a personal, intimate relationship. Cantrell’s husband Jason was still alive. Until Vappie retired in June 2024, they engaged in a scheme to defraud the City of New Orleans and the NOPD. Vappie submitted time sheets and expense reports for hours he claimed to be on duty but was actually engaged in personal activities with Cantrell. The cost of Vappie’s illegal behavior was $70,000.
They took many steps to hide their scheme including the use of WhatsApp where they corresponded through 15,000 messages, pictures and audio clips.
Cantrell and Vappie perpetuated their scheme in New Orleans and out of state. Vappie’s work as executive e security was both extensively and conspicuously different from any other member of the protection unit, according to prosecutors. Vappie and Cantrell coordinated their schedules to spend time together and engage in personal activities while Vappie was being paid to do his actual job.
Vappie accompanied Cantrell on 14 domestic and international trips to maximize their time together. The examples of payroll fraud and abuse are shameful. For example, they don’t an extra day in San Francisco to visit wineries during which Vappie was paid for working a 15-hour day. Cantrell traveled to Martha’s Vinyard to meet Vappie who was there for a conference. Cantrell had recently appointed Vappie to Hano’s board.
Cantrell and Vappie were aware that their conduct broke laws. But they didn’t care. Cantrell thought she was smart enough to cover her tracks. Rumors abound that the government was aided by an informant. CouId that person be Vappie? A deal like that would keep him out of prison and able to watch his children grow up.
These indictments will have a negative effect on our upcoming elections, especially the race for mayor. The current Councilmembers have issued milk toast statements. The mayoral candidates will be extremely cautious in their remarks. The indictment could cast a shadow over Councilmember Oliver Thomas, a close ally on the Council. Some voters might now think twice before supporting female candidates.
Though the Cantrell recall efforts were unsuccessful, its organizers must be breathing a sigh of relief. Adversely, Cantrell’s hard-core supporters are probably furious that this Black female is being attacked.
Everyone is innocent until proven guilty. Cantrell is a tough fighter. She will not resign before her term ends. Surely Cantrell will come out swinging that this indictment is racist, sexist and a witch hunt. How many male mayors had a little honey on the side? Probably all of them. This trial won’t take place until 2026. Until then it will be difficult for Cantrell to line up work for her next life.
Let’s hope our next mayor understands that our laws are meant for every citizen. It’s time for a change, New Orleans, for the citizen and its citizens to grow and prosper.
(Except for the headline, this story has not been edited by PostX News and is published from a syndicated feed.)
