Leessa Augustine, a former Sewerage & Water Board Special Agent and New Orleans Police Officer, has been indicted on several charges stemming from multiple fraud schemes. According to the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana, Augustine, 46, allegedly committed wire fraud, engaged in aggravated identity theft, and made false statements while holding a position meant to safeguard against misconduct within the S&WB.
While serving as a reserve officer for the New Orleans Police Department, Augustine is accused of billing for hours not actually worked on a police detail. United States Attorney Duane A. Evans stated that during some of the hours she claimed to work this police detail, she was simultaneously orchestrating a second fraud scheme using her S&WB-issued computer. This other scheme involved allegedly falsifying documents such as W-2 forms, pay stubs, and bank statements to secure a mortgage and housing assistance which was intended for low-income homebuyers, Evans said. Augustine additionally masked her actual income to obtain unemployment benefits, which is specifically egregious given this lifeline is meant for those finding themselves bereft of employment, not those seeking to game the system.
The series of indictments detail four counts of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft, where Augustine purportedly used others' identities in her schemes. She has also been charged with making false statements by lying to investigators. If convicted, the charges for wire fraud could lead to up to 30 years in prison while the aggravated identity theft charges carry a two-year imprisonment term each. Augustine might face additional fines and supervised release after serving her jail time.
The indictment is just a charge, and Augustine's guilt must be proven in court. Various investigative agencies, including the FBI and several federal Offices of Inspector General, worked together on this case. U.S. Attorney Evans thanked the New Orleans Office of Inspector General and the New Orleans Police Department for their help. This investigation shows these institutions' commitment to holding accountable those who violate public trust for personal gain.
