DA’s Office Secures Conviction for Aggravated Assault with a Firearm in Gentilly New Orleans

NEW ORLEANS – The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office (OPDA) secured the conviction of Bryneika Hawkins stemming from an incident in Gentilly New Orleans. Led by OPDA trial team members Assistant District Attorneys (ADAs) Corey Tassin and Corbin Bates, the jury found defendant Hawkins guilty of Aggravated Assault with a Firearm.

“Unfortunately, gun violence is a disease that continues to plague our communities, but my team of prosecutors won’t be deterred in their pursuit of justice for victims of senseless violence. This conviction is proof positive of that commitment to the city of New Orleans, said District Attorney Jason Williams. “I am proud of the great work of ADAs Tassin and Bates to prepare a strong case and secure a conviction in court. Increasing safety throughout the neighborhoods in our City is priority number one in our office. As we restore trust in our criminal legal system, let’s be clear that this DA’s Office will never tolerate or normalize criminal conduct in New Orleans.”

According to NOPD reports, on July 9, 2020, the victim and her 7-month-old son were sitting in the victim’s vehicle at 4313 Elysian Fields Avenue. The victim observed the defendant holding a firearm in front of her vehicle. The defendant then pointed the firearm at the victim and in the direction of the 7-month-old son. The victim captured the incident and took photos of the defendant.

The trial took place in Section C of Criminal District Court; Judge Benedict J. Willard presided. The sentencing date is set for July 27, 2023. The defendant faces up to 10 years in prison for the charge.