New Orleans mayor and bodyguard lover charged with fraud and corruption
Published: 8/16/2025

New Orleans mayor and bodyguard face fraud and corruption charges over alleged misuse of public funds for a romantic relationship. LaToya Cantrell and Jeffrey Vappie are accused of using secure messaging to conceal personal activities as work-related while receiving payment. Potential penalties include multi-year prison terms and hefty fines. Cantrell, the city's first female mayor, has not publicly addressed the allegations.