In other municipal corruption news, LaToya Cantrell, the first female mayor of New Orleans, was indicted recently. At the time of this appointment, she was expected to leave office this coming January. The basis for the allegations stem from her purported sexual relationship with her ex-bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie. They include allegations of misusing city resources during their alleged relationship. This unprecedented indictment marks a significant moment in the city’s history, as Cantrell becomes the first mayor in New Orleans’ 307-year history to face federal charges while still in office.
The indictment alleges that Cantrell and Vappie conspired to continue their personal relationship. At the same time, he accepted money from the city to offer her protection. According to reports, Cantrell used a city-owned apartment close to Jackson Square in the historic French Quarter. It was during these work responsibilities that she met Vappie there, on the clock. This deal supposedly allowed them to develop their personal relationship while he was ostensibly being paid for official work.
Cantrell’s time as mayor has been filled with notable successes, as well as some police scandals and controversies. Prior to her election, she served on the New Orleans City Council. She became first lady of San Antonio, and in November 2017, she won her first mayoral election. She was re-elected in November 2021. Her second term has been controversial, drawing fire over multiple scandals, including her purported affair with Vappie.
The indictment alleges that Cantrell and Vappie communicated via an encrypted messaging app to conceal their communications. In addition, they destroyed electronic records to cover up their wrongdoing. They were charged with lying to federal agents, members of a grand jury, their colleagues and the public about their romantic relationship.
According to Cantrell and Vappie’s indictments, accepting gifts was just one form of their alleged criminality. These gifts reportedly covered White’s ticket to a New Orleans Saints football game in January 2019, a new cellphone, and meals at fancy establishments like Ruth’s Chris Steak House. These actions have resulted in enormous financial damages. The city government has already racked up more than $70,000 in travel-related expenses alone, and that amount doesn’t even include Cantrell’s personal travel expenditures.
Cantrell’s attorney, Eddie Castaing, made the confirmation that a grand jury has indeed indicted Cantrell. Unlike other nominees, he did not take the opportunity to record any further remarks to the press this week.
Her departure from office is fast approaching. A half dozen candidates have already thrown their hats into an October primary election, which would mark a dramatic shift in the political leadership of New Orleans. Cantrell’s indictment will likely influence the dynamics of these upcoming campaigns as potential successors seek to distance themselves from the current administration’s controversies.
The timing of the indictment raises questions about Cantrell’s legacy as she prepares to leave office. Her administration had to overcome the uniquely difficult trials that came with the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic. This unprecedented time showcased her tremendous leadership ability. Her trailblazing accomplishments might get drowned out by allegations about her personal life and accusations of misallocation of funds and possible misconduct.
Cantrell’s position has been further complicated. On top of this, in August 2023 she experienced a personal tragedy with the sudden passing of her husband, Jason. Whatever the outcome, this loss has no doubt added pressure to an already difficult stretch for the Mayor.
No matter the outcome, New Orleans is writing an unprecedented chapter in its political history. All eyes will be on Cantrell’s moves and on what’s next for the city’s leadership. We will be watching closely as this sordid scandal unfurls – both as citizens of the Greater Cincinnati region and as political watchers on the left and right.