Former City of New Orleans Building Inspector Pleads Guilty

NEW ORLEANS - U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that KEVIN RICHARDSON age 56, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Susie Morgan, to one count of violating Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1952(a)(3) and 2, use of an interstate facility with intent to carry on unlawful activity.

According to the court documents, RICHARDSON was employed as a building inspector for the City of New Orleans and utilized the internet-based City of New Orleans’ LAMA system to alter and/or delete city documents and submit material information.  He solicited and accepted approximately $65,000 in bribe payments from individuals seeking favorable inspection reports and certificates of completion for properties that did not comply with the city and state building codes and for properties that had not been inspected.  He also paid bribe money to a City of New Orleans permit analyst for the issuance of permits without proper documentation and plan review.

RICHARDSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of five (5) years, a fine of not more than $250,000, three years supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment fee.  He is scheduled to be sentenced on February 4, 2020.

This matter was handled by the City of New Orleans Office of Inspector General, Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Tracey N. Knight is prosecuting the matter.