Duane A. Evans, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana
Six California residents have been indicted for their alleged involvement in a conspiracy to transport stolen goods across state lines. The charges, announced by U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans, include violations of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 2314.
The individuals named in the indictment are Deanthony Blocker, James Blocker, Jovan Collins (referred to as "Collins"), Lorenzo Taylor ("Taylor"), Nemirah Davidson ("Davidson"), and Patrick Garland ("Garland"). According to the indictment, they conspired to steal thousands of cartons of cigarettes from warehousing facilities located in Georgia, North Carolina, and Louisiana. The group reportedly used bolt cutters and crowbars to breach security fences surrounding these facilities.
If convicted on Count 1 for conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen goods, each defendant could face up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. For Count 2 related to the actual transportation of stolen goods across state lines, the potential penalties increase to ten years imprisonment with similar fines and fees.
U.S. Attorney Evans emphasized that an indictment is merely a formal accusation and that guilt must be established beyond a reasonable doubt.
Evans acknowledged the collaborative efforts made by various law enforcement agencies in investigating this case. These agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office; Knightdale Police Department; Atlanta Police Department; Rockmart Police Department; Texas Department of Public Safety; and Fort Stockton Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell from the General Crimes Unit is leading the prosecution effort.
