Three men from New Orleans have been sentenced to lengthy prison terms for their involvement in the armed robbery of an undercover federal agent. The incident, which left the agent paralyzed, took place on August 29, 2023. Michael Lott, Dianta Tropez, and Vernell Woodard were sentenced by United States District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle on February 18 and 19, 2025.
The three men conspired to distribute methamphetamine to an undercover ATF agent and another individual at a Westbank apartment in New Orleans. After completing the drug deal, they arranged for the agent to return the next day under false pretenses. When the agent arrived at the apartment complex with another individual, they were ambushed by Lott and Tropez who demanded their possessions at gunpoint.
As law enforcement agents monitoring the situation responded, Lott and Tropez attempted to flee. In an effort to escape, the undercover agent fell from a balcony resulting in severe injuries that caused paralysis.
Michael Lott pleaded guilty on October 2, 2024, while Dianta Tropez entered his plea on September 13, 2024. Vernell Woodard admitted guilt on November 22, 2024. All three faced multiple charges including armed robbery and drug trafficking offenses.
Judge Lemelle handed down sentences exceeding recommended guidelines: Lott received a sentence of 300 months imprisonment; Tropez was sentenced to 284 months; and Woodard received a sentence of 209 months. Each defendant will also serve five years of supervised release following their prison term.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson stated: "Following the lengthy sentences imposed on Michael Lott, Dianta Tropez, and Vernell Woodard our community is a bit safer... justice was achieved."
ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson added: "The substantial sentencings of Michael Lott, Dianta Tropez, and Vernell Woodard signifies that each defendant will be held accountable for engaging in violent crime."
This case falls under Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime through coordinated efforts among law enforcement agencies.
The investigation was led by the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco Firearms and Explosives with assistance from other local agencies including Louisiana State Police and FBI. The prosecution team included Assistant United States Attorneys David Haller and Nolan Paige.