Federal charges have been filed against three men from Baton Rouge following an undercover firearm-trafficking operation that escalated into violence. The incident occurred on June 17, 2025, and involved an exchange of gunfire that resulted in injuries to an ATF agent and one suspect.
Acting United States Attorney Ellison C. Travis announced the charges, which include assault on a federal officer and robbery for Torion Bobbs, age 20, and Cordell Simms, age 19. Caylup Anderson, age 18, faces charges of robbery and aiding and abetting.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) Task Force had arranged to purchase a firearm equipped with a machine-gun conversion device outside the Triple S Food Mart on North Foster Drive. When agents attempted to detain the suspects, gunfire was exchanged. The suspects fled but were quickly apprehended.
"Our office has zero tolerance for assaults on law enforcement officers," stated Acting U.S. Attorney Travis. He emphasized the coordinated efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies in swiftly bringing charges against the defendants.
Joshua Jackson, ATF New Orleans SAC, reiterated the agency's commitment to public safety and addressing violent crime in partnership with federal, state, and local authorities. He noted that these charges are indicative of ATF's dedication to holding accountable those who engage in violent crimes using firearms.
Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Tapp of the FBI New Orleans Field Office highlighted the rapid response by law enforcement as evidence of their intolerance for assaults on officers or any actions endangering the community.
The investigation is being conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eli Abad. It is important to note that a criminal complaint is merely an accusation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
