U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans | U.S. Department of Justice
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans has announced that Todd F. Morrell, a former sergeant with the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), has pled guilty to six counts of wire fraud. Morrell, 57, admitted to executing a multi-year scheme to defraud both the NOPD and the New Orleans Fair Grounds by double billing and claiming payment for hours he did not work.
Morrell was employed with NOPD's Special Operations Division and supplemented his income through off-duty security work, including with the New Orleans Fair Grounds Neighborhood Patrol. Despite certifying his understanding of NOPD policies regarding secondary employment, court documents reveal that between early 2017 and November 30, 2021, Morrell falsely claimed to be on duty while engaging in personal activities such as race car driving.
The fraudulent activities involved submitting timecards and timesheets to both the NOPD and the Fair Grounds Patrol, indicating he was working for both simultaneously. The specific dates associated with these charges include July 1, 2019; December 21, 2020; January 23, March 13-14, April 25-30; and October 23 in 2021.
"By pleading guilty today, Mr. Morrell admitted that he violated the public’s trust in his agency and position," stated U.S. Attorney Evans. He emphasized the strong partnership between his office, the FBI, and the New Orleans Office of Inspector General during this investigation.
Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil of FBI New Orleans remarked on Morrell's breach of trust: "His actions served as a horrible example for other officers." He assured that today's plea represents a commitment from authorities to ensure justice is served.
Morrell faces up to twenty years in prison per count along with potential fines and supervised release penalties. Sentencing is scheduled for February 25, 2025.
Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and Brittany L. Reed are leading the prosecution efforts.
