Deborah Cooper, a 54-year-old resident of New Orleans, has been convicted on all charges related to two robberies that occurred in 2022 at Igor's Lounge. The verdict was delivered by a federal trial jury on February 12, 2025, under the supervision of U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo.
Cooper faced seven counts, including conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery and interference with commerce by robbery, both under the Hobbs Act. Additional charges included using and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and tampering with proceedings.
Court documents revealed that Cooper and an unidentified accomplice robbed Igor's Lounge twice in early 2022. In February, they held up a bartender at gunpoint, taking over $1,200. A month later, they returned to rob another bartender, this time escaping with more than $7,000. Surveillance footage captured Cooper's vehicle near the scene during one of the incidents.
The investigation led by the New Orleans Police Department resulted in finding evidence at Cooper’s residence and vehicle that linked her to the crimes. Items found included clothing worn during the robberies and a Smith & Wesson firearm.
Judge Milazzo is set to sentence Cooper on May 7, 2025. She faces significant prison time due to multiple convictions involving firearms use during violent crimes and other offenses. The potential penalties include up to life imprisonment for some charges and additional years for others.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives collaborated with local law enforcement on this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Brittany Reed and Sarah Dawkins are handling prosecution duties.