New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell faces federal charges of conspiracy, wire fraud, and obstruction amid allegations she concealed an intimate relationship with her bodyguard. It’s the first indictment of a sitting mayor in city history.
New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell was indicted by a federal grand jury on 18 criminal counts, including conspiracy, wire fraud, and obstruction of justice, following allegations she attempted to hide a romantic relationship with her bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie. The charges stem from a years-long affair that prosecutors say was concealed through encrypted messaging and deletion of evidence. This marks the first time a sitting mayor in New Orleans has faced criminal charges.
Details of the Alleged Scheme
Prosecutors assert that beginning in late 2021, Cantrell and Vappie developed a “personal and intimate relationship” while he was officially on duty. Vappie was paid by taxpayers to travel with the mayor—even when they were allegedly spending private time together in vineyards, apartments, and other personal settings. These trips cost the city more than $70,000 in unauthorized expenses.
Further allegations describe how they exchanged over 15,000 WhatsApp messages, many of which were deleted to conceal their correspondence from investigators. In one message, Vappie allegedly wrote that he “loved her and their physical relationship.”
Obstruction and Deception
The indictment claims both Cantrell and Vappie lied to investigators, deleted messages, and attempted to obstruct the federal probe. Cantrell reportedly filed a sworn affidavit claiming she enabled an auto-delete feature for WhatsApp messages—but evidence shows that was activated only after media scrutiny began. Additionally, she kept messages concealed despite a grand jury subpoena demanding them.
Investigators also found that Cantrell tried to pressure or override internal investigations into Vappie’s conduct. When these efforts met resistance, she allegedly reassigned or threatened the interim police superintendent and filed a restraining order against a citizen who captured photos of her with Vappie.
Context and Political Fallout
Cantrell made history in 2017 as New Orleans’ first female mayor. Her initial term was marked by accomplishments in infrastructure investment and pandemic response, and she won a second term in 2021. However, her second term grew marred by controversies—criticisms of lavish travel expenses, lingering ethics concerns, a failed recall attempt in 2022, and dwindling relationships within city government.
In response to the indictment, city leaders expressed sorrow for the turn of events. The mayor’s allies argue she’s been unfairly targeted based on her identity and political position.
What Happens Next
Cantrell is serving her final term and is not eligible for re-election. Her term is scheduled to end in January 2026. Even if convicted, the city charter dictates she would be suspended without pay, though she could appeal any outcome—and possibly regain her office if convictions are overturned.
Notably, the investigation also involved city ethics issues beyond this case. Other probes have spotlighted campaign spending, misuse of a city-owned apartment, and past attempts to manipulate officials—all contributing to a climate of scandal and distrust surrounding her administration.
Mayor LaToya Cantrell’s indictment is both historic and deeply consequential. As the first sitting mayor of New Orleans ever charged with a federal crime, she faces serious legal jeopardy—not to mention the question of how this scandal will shape the city’s political future and trust in government.
