Federal prosecutors have charged Tremaine Myles, a 34-year-old resident of Marrero, with multiple violations stemming from alleged illegal firearm possession and identity theft. According to a press release from the U.S. Attorney's Office dated Wednesday, January 7, Myles faces charges that include making false statements to a firearms dealer, aggravated identity theft, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and theft of mail.
Under the indictment, Myles could potentially face significant prison time, with a possible 10 years for false statements (Count 1), a mandatory 2 years for aggravated identity theft (Count 2), up to 15 years for possession of a firearm by a felon (Count 3), and 5 years for mail theft (Count 4). Additionally, the fines for each count could amount to $250,000, and the accused could be placed under supervised release for varying durations. U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle highlighted the gravity of these charges, but also reminded the public that "an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt."
The case is a segment of "Operation Take Back America," a sweeping initiative designed to counter illegal immigration, dismantle cartels, and cushion our communities against violent crimes. This task force aligns the Department of Justice's efforts, tapping into resources from the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods, to take a staunch stand against criminal activities undermining public safety, according to the U.S. Attorney's Office.
Commending the joint investigative efforts, Courcelle lauded the commitment of the United States Postal Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office while investigating this matter. Leading the prosecution, Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit is tasked with navigating legal complexities and enforcing justice should guilt be confirmed. Each count against Myles also comes paired with a $100 special assessment fee, as mandated by law.
