FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

December 23, 2024

Major Victories, Community Engagements, and Holiday Cheer from the DA’s Office

“Collaboration is the art and science of combining people’s talents, skills, and knowledge to achieve a common goal.”

Good morning,

As 2024 comes to an end, the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office reflects on a year of critical achievements in public safety, strengthened partnerships, and meaningful community engagement. Below, we share highlights from last week’s events, each contributing to our mission of making New Orleans safer for everyone.

Landmark Indictments Against the “Glock Boys” Gang

Last week, District Attorney Jason Williams announced major indictments against four members of the notorious “Glock Boys,” also known as the “Fox 8 Boys.” These individuals have been formally charged for their roles in a highly organized and violent crime spree that included murder, attempted murder, armed robbery, and other serious offenses.

“This is not a case of young people making poor choices,” DA Williams stated during the announcement. “This is an organized criminal network that has sown fear in our neighborhoods and made headlines for coordinated acts of violence. These indictments reflect the incredible efforts of our law enforcement partners and the tools we now have to combat such crimes.”

The case, presented masterfully to the grand jury by Chief of Screening Andre Gaudin, represents a culmination of months of collaboration between the DA’s Office, the NOPD Homicide Unit, the Louisiana State Police, and the Violent Crime Abatement Investigation Team (VCAIT). This coordinated effort included sharing intelligence, developing strategies, and leveraging cutting-edge resources like the Open Source Intelligence Taskforce (OSINT).

To those engaging in violence, DA Williams had a clear message: “We know who you are, and it’s only a matter of time before you face justice. Our partnerships ensure no stone is left unturned in bringing violent offenders to account.”

Joint Press Conference on Recent Mass Shootings

In partnership with the New Orleans Police Department and city leadership, DA Williams provided critical updates on recent mass shootings. The joint press conference addressed progress in investigations, resource deployment, and collaborative strategies to prevent future violence. DA Williams emphasized the importance of a unified response and underscored the commitment to ensuring justice for victims.
Collaboration with University Medical Center (UMC)

DA Williams joined UMC President and CEO John R. Nickens IV for a convening with UMC Department Directors and the hospital’s public safety team. During the meeting, DA Williams outlined how the DA’s Office and NOPD district leadership can work with UMC security to streamline the flow of information related to internal calls for service.

Additionally, DA Williams shared updates on the NODICE and OSINT initiatives, explaining how these programs enhance prevention and response efforts in the area surrounding UMC, ensuring the safety of patients, staff, and the broader community.

Annual Leadership Meeting with LSP and Troop NOLA

Colonel Sgt. Hodge of the Louisiana State Police and Captain James Hyatt of Troop NOLA hosted their annual strategy meeting, with DA Williams and other local leaders in attendance. This year’s discussions focused on crime trends impacting the region, enhancing coordination across jurisdictions, and ensuring a seamless partnership to address public safety challenges in 2025.

Colonel Hodge shared:

“Our shared mission is to protect every citizen, and through these annual meetings, we ensure that our resources and strategies are aligned to achieve that goal.”
Lower 9th Ward Senior Citizen Christmas Party

DA Williams and his mother continued their beloved tradition of attending the Lower 9th Ward Senior Center’s Christmas Celebration. This vibrant event is a highlight of the holiday season, providing an opportunity for DA Williams to express gratitude to the elders of the community and receive their wisdom on public safety priorities.

All-Staff Holiday Party

The DA and his leadership team hosted the annual all-staff celebration to thank employees across every division for their tireless service to the people of New Orleans. During the event, DA Williams recognized outstanding employees from each division and announced the 2024 Employee of the Year.

OPDA 2024 Honorees:

  • Appeals: Kathleen Murphy
  • Child Support: Natasha Jack
  • Civil Rights: Hannah Walker
  • Diversion: Brooke Price
  • Homicide Unit: Zach Creel
  • Investigations: Adrian Malone
  • Jessica Strange, Hate Crimes Community Liaison
  • Juvenile: Lorena Lisi
  • Mandy McManus, Chief Accountant
  • Michael Pyle, Crime Analyst
  • Screening: Carly Greenfield
  • Sexual Assault Kit Initiative (SAKI): David Benelli
  • Special Victims Unit (SVU): Sydney Holemard
  • Trial Assistant: Chentel Cretini
  • Trials: Gabriel Balasquide
  • Victim Witness: Lori Forte
  • Employee of the Year: Constance Tullier

These awards highlight the dedication, hard work, and impact each employee has made over the past year.
A Message of Gratitude

This week’s events are a reflection of a year filled with critical successes that have driven meaningful improvements in public safety and justice. As we look ahead to 2025, we remain deeply optimistic about the promise of growth, innovation, and collaboration.

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we will build a safer, stronger New Orleans.
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Contact: Ken Thomas, Communications Coordinator

Tel: 504.816.2165

Email: communications@orleansda.com