Ricky Wilson, a 31-year-old resident of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on November 18, 2025, to conspiracy to commit arson. The plea was entered before United States District Judge Brandon S. Long. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced the development.
Wilson admitted to purchasing a vehicle from a dealership and later placing three live Molotov cocktails next to vehicles at the same dealership, causing damage. He also fired several shots into vehicles and the building housing the dealership’s offices. The incident occurred in the early morning hours and no injuries were reported. Wilson is currently in custody in Jefferson Parish on unrelated charges.
He faces up to five years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. Restitution may also be required for damages caused.
"This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results," according to Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller is handling the prosecution.
