Another Louisiana Resident Sentenced for Conspiring to Stage Auto Accidents

March 23, 2023

Marvel Francois, a 54-year old of Houma, Louisiana, was sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, arising out of staged automobile accidents with tractor-trailers occurring in New Orleans, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on May 17, 2020,Francois, along with participants Damian Labeaud (“Labeaud”), Bernell Gale (“Gale”), Troy Smith (“Smith”), and another passenger, participated in a staged accident in the vicinity of Louisa Street and Chickasaw Street. Labeaud fled the scene. Francois falsely reported to the NOPD that she had been driving her Dodge Durango and that a tractor-trailer had struck her vehicle. Gale and Smith were previously sentenced before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk. Damian Labeaud’s sentencing is set for June 8, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon.

United States District Judge Lance M. Africk sentenced Francois to 5 years probation, 100 hours of community service, payment of restitution in the amount of $20,654.48, and a mandatory $100.00 special assessment fee.

Source: DOJ