2 La scientists accused of trying to steal trade secrets

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — Two Louisiana scientists have been charged with trying to steal trade secrets from the Water Institute of the Gulf, a hydrology research institution in Baton Rouge.

Federal prosecutors say 53-year-old Ehab Meselhe and 42-year-old Kelin Hu face conspiracy charges involving trade secrets and computer fraud and abuse.

The men were indicted May 29 but the document remained sealed until their arrests Tuesday.

Meselhe and Hu are full-time faculty members at Tulane University. Federal prosecutors allege the transfer and theft of intellectual property from the Water Institute, where both previously worked.

Meselhe's attorney Mike Magner says his client is innocent. It was unknown if Hu has an attorney.