FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 13, 2024

Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office Announces Guilty Verdict in the 2016 Killing of Raven Veal and Her Unborn Child

“Violence is always unacceptable in the City of New Orleans, but the level of depravity in this murder was especially notable. Her loved ones and surviving child will never quite escape this nightmare, but we hope that this verdict gives them some small bit of closure.,” stated District Attorney Williams.

A Crime of Unimaginable Brutality

On November 9, 2016, Jermaine Brisco committed an act of unspeakable brutality that left the New Orleans community in shock. In a calculated and heartless crime, Brisco fatally shot 22-year-old Raven Veal in front of her three-year-old daughter, forever changing the young girl’s life. After the shooting, Brisco cruelly pulled the terrified child from the car, abandoned her by the side of the road, and then shockingly drove over Raven’s pregnant body, leaving the defenseless child to witness the horrifying scene of her mother’s lifeless body in the roadway.

Raven Veal had her entire life ahead of her, eagerly anticipating the birth of her second child. Instead, her life was tragically cut short by a man driven solely by greed and malice. At the time of her death, Raven was preparing to welcome her baby into the world, with the joyful anticipation of motherhood fresh in her heart. Now, her surviving daughter faces the unimaginable task of growing up without her mother’s love, guidance, and protection. This child, who witnessed the brutal act, will carry the heavy burden of these traumatic memories, grappling with the loss and the cruel manner in which her mother was taken from her.

The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office expressed its commitment to pursuing justice for all victims of violence. “Violence is utterly unacceptable in the City of New Orleans. The sheer brutality of this case is particularly shocking, leaving Raven’s loved ones and her surviving child with deep, enduring scars. While no verdict can undo the pain, we hope that today’s decision provides a small measure of comfort and closure for those who have suffered.” – Assistant District Attorney Andre Jeanfreau

This long-awaited justice has been hard-fought, following two previous trials that were unable to reach a resolution—the first ending in a hung jury and the second in a mistrial due to juror misconduct. Today’s outcome marks a significant step in achieving the accountability Raven Veal’s family has tirelessly sought for years.

Recognition of Collaborative Efforts and Continued Commitment to Justice

Special recognition goes to the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD), particularly Sergeants Rob Barrere and Daniel Hiatt, for their relentless efforts in piecing together the evidence essential for this conviction. Additionally, we extend heartfelt thanks to the dedicated prosecution team for their commitment to ensuring that justice was served.

District Attorney Jason Williams expressed profound gratitude: “My deepest thanks to Assistant District Attorneys Krieger and Jeanfreau for their steadfast dedication to justice. Your efforts have been instrumental in bringing accountability to this case and providing some sense of closure for Raven’s family. It is through such tireless work that we can continue to serve the people of our community.”

As we move forward to the sentencing phase, the Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office reaffirms its steady commitment to the pursuit of justice for victims of violence— especially domestic violence. “We stand firm in our resolve to hold violent offenders accountable,” added DA Williams. “The people of Orleans Parish deserve a community where they can live in safety and peace.”

DA Williams urges the public to seek help if you or anyone you know is in a potentially life-threatening situation. Please seek help immediately.

Below are a few resources you can share with anyone who could use further assistance.

Services: Crisis counseling, legal advocacy, shelter, and safety planning.

Contact: (504) 592-4005

Website: nofjc.org

Metropolitan Center for Women and Children (Metro)

Services: Emergency shelter, counseling, legal advocacy, and 24/7 crisis hotline.

Crisis Hotline: (504) 837-5400

Website: mcwcgno.org

Sexual Trauma Awareness and Response (STAR)

Services: Confidential advocacy, counseling, and legal support for sexual violence survivors.

New Orleans Office: (504) 407-0711

24/7 Hotline: (855) 435-STAR (7827)

Website: star.ngo

Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Victim Witness Assistance Program (VWAP)

Services: Court advocacy, victim notification, and support during legal proceedings.

Contact: (504) 822-2414

Website: orleansda.com/vwap

Louisiana Coalition Against Domestic Violence (LCADV)

Services: Statewide support, including a 24-hour hotline, legal assistance, and safety planning.

24/7 Statewide Hotline: (888) 411-1333

Website: lcadv.org

Tulane University Women’s Clinic – Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner (SANE) Program

Services: Medical care, forensic exams, and evidence collection for survivors of sexual violence.

Contact: (504) 988-8050

Website: tulanehealthcare.com

Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault (LaFASA)

Services: Survivor advocacy, prevention programs, and referrals for counseling and legal help.

Contact: (225) 372-8995

Website: lafasa.org

Crime Survivors NOLA

Services: Advocacy and resources for survivors navigating the aftermath of violent crimes, including financial assistance guidance, support groups, understanding victims’ rights, and tracking case statuses.

Contact: Information is available on their website.

Website: crimesurvivorsnola.org

Tel: 504.822.2414

Email: communications@orleansda.com