June 17, 2026

NEW ORLEANS — Tuesday, June 16, 2026, the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office announced that an Orleans Parish jury has found Taurus Chad Curtis Hale and Keilon Washington guilty as charged in the murder of Larry Boudreaux Jr.

 

Following trial, jurors convicted Hale of Second-Degree Murder and Obstruction of Justice. Washington was convicted of Second-Degree Murder, Obstruction of Justice, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

The convictions stem from the January 6, 2024, shooting death of Boudreaux in New Orleans East. Evidence presented at trial showed that an altercation escalated into a pursuit that culminated in the fatal shooting of Boudreaux.

 

Before discussing the verdicts, District Attorney Jason Williams emphasized the life at the center of the case.

 

“Larry Boudreaux Jr. was more than a victim in a criminal case. He was a son, a father, a brother, and someone deeply loved by the people who knew him,” Williams said. “His family has carried an unimaginable loss every day since his life was taken. These verdicts cannot restore what was stolen from them, but they do ensure that those responsible are held accountable for the choices that forever changed their lives.”

Williams also recognized Boudreaux’s family, including his mother, Jerine Boudreaux; his father, Larry Boudreaux Sr.; his sister, Lauren Boudreaux; and his aunt, Bridgette Seals, for their unwavering commitment throughout the prosecution.

 

“Every homicide leaves behind a family whose lives are permanently altered by violence,” Williams said. “Larry’s family showed extraordinary strength throughout this process. They remained engaged, present, and determined to see justice pursued on behalf of their loved one. Their commitment never wavered.”

Throughout the proceedings, Larry Boudreaux Sr. remained a constant presence in the courtroom, attending hearings, following developments, and advocating for justice on behalf of his son.

“My son’s life mattered,” said Larry Boudreaux Sr. “Nothing will bring Larry back, and there is not a day that goes by that we do not feel that loss. But today, I am grateful that the people responsible have been held accountable. Our family has fought for Larry every step of the way, and we will continue to honor his memory every day.”

Lead Assistant District Attorney Forrest Ladd, who prosecuted the case, credited the verdict to the strength of the evidence and the determination of everyone involved in the pursuit of justice.

 

“This verdict was the result of a thorough investigation, dedicated law enforcement work, and a jury that carefully considered the evidence presented in court,” Ladd said. “We are grateful they returned verdicts that reflect the facts of this case and honor the life that was taken. Cases like this are never about a conviction alone, they are about seeking justice for victims and standing beside families who deserve answers.”

Assistant District Attorney Carlos Torres commended the jury for its diligence throughout the trial.

 

“The jury was presented with hours of surveillance footage, text messages, physical evidence, and witness testimony,” Torres said. “They were also given a glimpse into a side of our city that many people never experience firsthand. Despite that, they remained focused on the facts, delivered the appropriate verdicts, and provided a measure of closure for the Boudreaux family as they continue to honor and remember Larry Boudreaux Jr.”

 

The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office also recognized New Orleans Police Department Homicide Detectives Tanisha Sykes-Smith and James Fyfe for their instrumental role in the investigation.

 

The detectives’ diligent evidence collection and investigative efforts helped establish the facts presented at trial and were critical to securing these convictions. Their work reflects the strong partnership between prosecutors and law enforcement in pursuing justice for victims and their families.

Homicide Unit Chief Matthew Derbes noted that the convictions reflect the Homicide Unit’s continued commitment to pursuing justice on behalf of homicide victims and their families.

 

Williams said the verdict serves as a reminder that violence leaves lasting consequences that extend far beyond a single moment.

 

“Accountability matters,” Williams said. “Every act of violence sends shockwaves through families and communities. The prosecutors, investigators, victim advocates, and law enforcement professionals who worked this case understood that from day one. They showed up every day for Larry, for his family, and for the principle that every life taken deserves a relentless pursuit of justice.”

 

He added a message for those who continue to choose violence.

 

“Before making a decision that changes the course of your life and devastates someone else’s, think about the consequences,” Williams said. “Think about the family that will be left behind. Think about the pain that never goes away. Make different choices. Because if you choose violence, understand this: we will continue to fight with everything we have to pursue justice for victims and accountability for those responsible.”

 

The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office extends its gratitude to the New Orleans Police Department detectives and all supporting personnel whose work helped secure these convictions.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Forrest Ladd and Carlos Torres, with support from Trial Assistant Alecia Richards, Victim Witness Advocate Melissa Lewis, and Investigator Elizabeth Garcia of the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office Homicide Unit.

Tel: (504) 822-2414 | Email: communications@orleansda.com