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Wine, WhatsApp and the Bodyguard – New Orleans Democrat mayor charged with $70K ‘love affair’ fraud

LaToya Cantrell news
Jeffrey Vappie (L), LaToya Cantrell (R).

New Orleans’ Democratic Party Mayor LaToya Cantrell and her former bodyguard, Jeffrey Vappie, have been charged with fraud and corruption over allegations they used public funds to conduct a secret romantic relationship from 2021 to 2024.

Prosecutors claim the pair exploited city resources, falsely claiming Vappie was on duty during 14 domestic and international trips — including a $70,000 California wine tour — while using a city-owned apartment as their private retreat.

The two allegedly exchanged thousands of disappearing WhatsApp messages, intimidated subordinates, lied to the FBI, and committed perjury to hide their actions. Both face potential prison sentences and hefty fines if convicted.

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