New Orleans Mayor Indicted Over Alleged Affair and Misuse of City Funds

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has been indicted on federal corruption charges tied to an alleged years-long affair with her police bodyguard, Officer Jeffrey Paul Vappie II. Prosecutors say the mayor used taxpayer money to fund romantic trips, luxury hotel stays, and even wine tastings with Vappie—while he was on the clock and being paid by the city.

The indictment, unsealed Friday, charges Cantrell with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to obstruct justice, and making false statements. It follows a lengthy federal probe into her conduct—the first female mayor in the city’s 300-year history now facing some of its most serious corruption allegations.

According to prosecutors, the romantic relationship ran from 2021 to 2024, during which time Cantrell was married to attorney Jason Cantrell, who died in August 2023. The pair allegedly exchanged 15,000 messages, photos, and audio clips over WhatsApp in just eight months—communications that investigators claim were also used to intimidate subordinates and conceal evidence.

Court documents allege Cantrell and Vappie took 14 trips together in eight months, many disguised as official travel but functioning as personal getaways. The city reportedly spent $70,000 on Vappie’s travel expenses alone.

Vappie, already facing charges of wire fraud and making false statements, has pleaded not guilty. Cantrell was added to the case following the investigation into Vappie’s activities. If convicted, both face potential prison sentences ranging from five years to two decades depending on the specific charges.

Cantrell, a Democrat whose term ends in January, has not commented on the allegations. Her attorney, Eddie Castaing, says he is reviewing the indictment before making a statement.