United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller has announced recent prosecutions aimed at protecting federal law enforcement officers and public officials. The cases reflect efforts by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana to address threats, assaults, and other acts that interfere with the administration of justice.
“Every attack or threat against our law enforcement officers, our public officials, or our courts is an attack on the rule of law itself,” said U.S. Attorney Keller. “These arrests, indictments, and convictions show our Office’s commitment alongside our federal partners to vigorously pursue and prosecute those who perpetrate these acts.”
The office highlighted seven ongoing cases:
– Justin Chadwick Butler of Shreveport was arrested after allegedly posting violent threats on social media targeting Speaker Mike Johnson and former President Donald Trump. Authorities say Butler advocated violence against Speaker Johnson in his posts. He faces up to 10 years in prison if convicted.
– Avieyle Moore from Jackson Parish pleaded guilty to sending a threatening letter to the Supreme Court falsely claiming it contained fentanyl. The incident led to an evacuation and hazardous materials response at a Supreme Court facility. Moore could face up to five years in prison.
– Alex Taylor Fontenot of Lake Charles was indicted for allegedly threatening Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents in a social media video. If convicted, he faces up to five years in prison.
– Justice Hunter from Alexandria was indicted after being arrested for striking a Courtroom Security Officer at the federal courthouse in Alexandria following disruptive behavior inside the building. Hunter could receive up to 20 years in prison if found guilty.
– Matthew Reardon of Oxford, Mississippi was convicted of disorderly conduct after repeatedly obstructing access to the John M. Shaw Federal Courthouse in Lafayette and harassing security officers there. He faces up to 30 days imprisonment.
– Maximiliano Perez-Perez, a Mexican national, remains detained pending trial after being indicted for biting an ICE officer while detained as an illegal alien subject to removal proceedings. He could be sentenced to as much as 20 years in prison if convicted.
– Micah James Legnon from New Iberia is awaiting trial after being charged with making threats against ICE officers based in New Orleans and later driving toward the city equipped with weapons and tactical gear. Authorities seized additional weapons during a search of his residence.
Federal law provides significant penalties for those who threaten or assault law enforcement officers or court personnel, or obstruct their duties. The U.S. Attorney’s Office stressed its ongoing priority is vigorous enforcement of these laws.
The statement also noted that criminal complaints and indictments are only allegations; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
