A former New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) sergeant has pleaded guilty to six counts of wire fraud. Todd F. Morrell, aged 57, admitted to defrauding both the NOPD and the New Orleans Fair Grounds by falsely claiming compensation for hours he did not work.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that Morrell entered his guilty plea before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey. The charges relate to a multi-year scheme in which Morrell submitted false timecards and timesheets from early 2017 through November 30, 2021.
Morrell served with NOPD’s Special Operations Division while supplementing his income with secondary employment, including a detail with the New Orleans Fair Grounds Neighborhood Patrol. Despite certifying compliance with department policies, Morrell engaged in personal activities during claimed working hours.
Court documents reveal that Morrell was involved in recreational race car driving while allegedly on duty or on detail. He also "double billed" by submitting overlapping timesheets to both NOPD and the Fair Grounds Patrol.
The dates corresponding to these fraudulent claims include July 1, 2019; December 21, 2020; January 23, March 13-14; April 25-30; and October 23, all in the year of their respective occurrence.
“When anyone commits fraud, our office will vet, investigate, and if warranted, prosecute,” said U.S. Attorney Evans. He emphasized that Morrell's actions violated public trust and highlighted cooperation between federal agencies during the investigation.
Special Agent in Charge Lyonel Myrthil of FBI New Orleans remarked on Morrell's breach of trust: "Mr. Morrell abused his position... when he chose to steal from NOPD." Myrthil added that this case demonstrates a commitment to pursuing justice alongside partners like the Inspector General's Office.
Morrell faces up to twenty years in prison per count along with possible fines and supervised release terms upon sentencing scheduled for February 25, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Evans acknowledged the efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and support from the City of New Orleans Office of Inspector General in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Jordan Ginsberg and Brittany L. Reed are handling prosecution duties.