A federal judge has ruled that New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell and her former security guard, Jeffrey Vappie, may not have contact with one another unless their attorneys are present, maintaining strict bond conditions amid their ongoing criminal cases. The decision comes after Cantrell sought to lift the restrictions, while prosecutors argued that little to no contact should be allowed during the legal proceedings.
The ruling mirrors conditions issued weeks earlier in Vappie’s case, when the same court barred him from contacting Cantrell without legal counsel present. In addition to the no-contact requirement, the pair are prohibited from discussing any matters related to their case. The charges stem from allegations that Cantrell and Vappie were involved in a romantic relationship while Vappie was serving as her security officer for the New Orleans Police Department.
Both defendants have pleaded not guilty. Cantrell faces multiple counts including conspiracy, wire fraud, conspiracy to obstruct justice, obstruction of justice, false statements, and providing false declarations before a grand jury. Vappie has been charged with wire fraud and obstruction of justice. Their joint trial is scheduled to begin on October 19, 2026.
Cantrell, a Democrat, has served as Mayor of New Orleans since May 7, 2018. She won reelection outright in the November 2021 primary, eliminating the need for a general election. Her current term is set to conclude on January 12, 2026.
Cantrell first gained recognition for her grassroots work to rebuild New Orleans’ Broadmoor neighborhood following Hurricane Katrina in 2005. She later won a seat on the New Orleans City Council in 2012 and secured a full term in 2014, where she sponsored several major initiatives—including a citywide ban on smoking in bars and casinos. As mayor, she negotiated a $50 million investment for the city’s Sewerage & Water Board and oversaw the city’s phased reopening strategy during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Born in Los Angeles in 1972, Cantrell moved to New Orleans in 1990 to attend Xavier University of Louisiana. Before entering public office, she built a career in nonprofit management and served on several local and statewide boards.
