A man from Pearl River, Louisiana, has been indicted for allegedly assaulting a federal court security officer. The indictment was announced by United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.
Court documents state that on October 6, 2025, Joseph E. McManus, age 48, is accused of assaulting a Special Deputy United States Marshal while the officer was performing official duties.
If convicted, McManus could face up to eight years in prison, a fine of as much as $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee.
United States Attorney Courcelle emphasized the presumption of innocence in criminal proceedings. “An indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt,” Courcelle said.
Courcelle also recognized the efforts of several agencies involved in the investigation. “U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the United States Marshal’s Service, Federal Protective Services, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter.” Assistant United States Attorney Duane A. Evans from the General Crimes Unit is handling the prosecution.



