Bombshell Indictment Reveals Secret Romance Between New Orleans Mayor Cantrell and Former Bodyguard

Jeffrey Paul Vappie II, former bodyguard to New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on charges that include seven counts of wire fraud and one count of making false statements to federal investigators. The indictment paints a damning picture of alleged corruption and deceit within the New Orleans Police Department's (NOPD) Executive Protection Unit (EPU).

Vappie, who served as a New Orleans Police Officer and was part of the EPU tasked with safeguarding high-ranking officials, is accused of submitting fraudulent timecards to cover up time spent with Mayor Cantrell during a secret romantic relationship. The falsified timecards span from August 2, 2022, to April 7, 2024, and detail 25 days where Vappie claimed to be providing security at the mayor's residence—duties the EPU was explicitly not authorized to perform at her home.

The indictment alleges that the romantic relationship between Vappie and "Public Official 1," identified as Mayor LaToya Cantrell, began as early as November 2021. Despite Vappie's attempts to disguise their relationship as professional interactions, investigators uncovered numerous romantic voice messages exchanged between the two, contradicting Vappie's denial of any physical or romantic involvement when questioned by the FBI in July 2023.

Further complicating matters, the investigation revealed that Vappie and Cantrell traveled together on at least 14 out-of-state trips, costing the city over $47,000. Destinations included Los Angeles, San Francisco, Washington DC, Scotland, and the United Arab Emirates. These trips, billed as official business, are now under scrutiny for their true purpose.

Adding to the intrigue, Vappie's internet search history raised red flags. He sought information on an affair between a former Nashville mayor and her security detail, the security of WhatsApp communications, and the home address of a reporter who had covered his relationship with Cantrell. He even searched for the name of Whitney Houston's character in the movie "The Bodyguard."

The scandal extends beyond Vappie's actions. Federal investigators are also probing potential violations involving Mayor Cantrell, including allegations of bribery and corruption. Sources indicate that FBI agents have questioned local businessmen who contributed to Cantrell's campaign, inquiring whether these donations were exchanged for favors from City Hall. Notably, Randy Farrell, a businessman who allegedly gave Cantrell tickets to the 2019 NFC Championship Game and other gifts, is under investigation. An official probing Farrell for permitting fraud was fired shortly after Farrell requested Cantrell's intervention.

The fallout from these revelations has been swift. Vappie received two reprimands following an internal NOPD investigation into his dubious hours and duties. Despite Judge Susie Morgan's harsh criticism of the internal probe's inadequacy, new evidence, including photographs of Vappie and Cantrell dining together in the French Quarter, has bolstered the case against him.

In response to the indictment, the NOPD issued a statement affirming their commitment to accountability and cooperation with federal authorities: "The NOPD fully cooperates with federal authorities and remains committed to upholding the highest standards of accountability and integrity. We are dedicated to maintaining the trust of our community through transparency and unwavering service."

As the investigation unfolds, the spotlight remains on Mayor Cantrell, who, despite not being charged with any crimes, faces mounting scrutiny over her role in this scandal.

Get more details in the full WWLTV report here.