Tag: campaign finance abuse

Ethics Scores 24th JDC Election 2024

Scientific research shows that campaign contributions are correlated with judges’ decisions. There is a crisis with the court’s legitimacy in Louisiana. This issue is very salient now for a variety of reasons. There are political concerns, case-related concerns, and financial concerns. 

Damon Cann, a Political Science instructor at Georgia University, conducted a study. It explores whether judges favor attorneys who support their campaigns financially. He shows that campaign contributions are indeed correlated with judges’ decisions. (Cann, Damon M. “Justice for Sale? Campaign Contributions and Judicial Decisionmaking.” State Politics & Policy Quarterly, vol. 7, no. 3, 2007, pp. 281–97. JSTOR, http://www.jstor.org/stable/40405604. Accessed 29 Feb. 2024)

Judicial ethics in Louisiana is a pretty hot topic for Motion to Quash LLC. There is discussion about judges taking advantage of elections to promote their own interests. There is discussion about judges showing favor with attorneys who donate to their campaigns. There is discussion about making it illegal for judges to accept contributions from attorneys who practice in their district. Join the Campaign for Judicial Integrity in Louisiana here.

The Code of Judicial Conduct highlights a crucial principle. Judges should avoid the appearance of impropriety. 28 USC section 455 – enacted by Congress, binds them and sets the standard for all the courts.

None of the three candidates for 24th JDC follow the judicial guidelines. They do not adhere when it comes to providing financial support to their campaigns. Jefferson Parish has been out of step with the norms governing Louisiana since Operation Wrinkled Robe. The operation, championed by Jim Letten, proved campaign support in Jefferson Parish was given with criminal intent. It was not for political reasons.

Ethics Scores for 24th JDC Candidates for 3/23/2024 Election

24th JDC
Candidate averageF33%
Jackie MaloneyF33%
Jerry SmithF33%
Lindsey ValentiD67%

Jackie Maloney- Ethics score F (33%) 

As a judicial candidate Jackie Maloney received $29,400 campaign contributions from 44 attorneys who practice in her district. Ms. Maloney received $2500 from 5 attorneys and $1,000 from 5 attorneys. $500 was issued by 14 attorneys. 

Jackie Maloney is an attorney. She issued over five thousand dollars in campaign contributions to 7 Judges in her district of practice. 

Jerry Smith Ethics score F (33%)

Since 2020, Jerry Smith received over $115,000 from over 180 attorneys who practice in his district. Mr. Smith received $2500 from 13 attorneys and $1,000 from 21 attorneys. $500 was issued by 50 attorneys. 

Since 2019, Jerry Smith issued $3650 to 10 judges in the 24th JDC.

Lindsey Valenti Ethics score D (67%)

As a candidate, Lindsey Valenti received more than $150, 000 from over 130 attorneys who practice in her district. Ms. Valenti received $2,500 from 36 attorneys and $1,000 from 22 attorneys. $500 was received by 42 attorneys.

As an attorney, Lindsey Valenti issued zero dollars to Judges. Thus, earning her a higher score despite receiving the most money.

Method

For consistency, the total scores were based on these three principles:

  1. Campaign contributions issued (5 possible points)
  2. Campaign contributions received (5 possible points)
  3. Disclosures/conflicts of interest (5 possible points)

Only when candidates scored 15 for the whole package did they score 100 percent. Campaigns are dynamic. We welcome your feedback. If you see a candidate’s position has changed, send us an email to tracie@motiontoquash.org with the new information. The spreadsheets are free and printable. Campaign finance reports were obtained from the Ethics Board’s website and the Ethics Disclosures can be found on the Louisiana Supreme Court’s website. 

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center (NWC), Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of motiontoquash.org.  Motion to Quash LLC successfully promoted legislation that supports the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 and amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest. Click here to donate Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC 2019.  NWC’s mission is to support whistleblowers in their efforts to expose and help prosecute corruption and other wrongdoing around the world. 

How PPP Loans Are Tied to Fraudulent Political Contributions

The investigation of loan fraud committed by disaster recovery recipients and Louisiana politicians is alarming. Businesses issued large political donations after receiving taxpayer-backed federal money. They received this money in the form of contracts, grants, PPP loans, or other financial assistance. This raises concerns about the legitimacy of their need for assistance. Disaster recovery recipients who issued campaign contributions after receiving their awards should be asked to repay the taxpayers.

Political donations flowed from over 100 businesses. These donations came after they received nearly $200 Million in taxpayer backed government funds. This is according to an analysis of federal data by Motion to Quash LLC.  

The payments suggest that many of these recipients not have truly needed the disaster assistance. These funds are meant for struggling small businesses. Fraud schemes like this are the costliest for taxpayers. 

Louisiana Lawmakers Repeal Campaign Limits After PPP Loans

In 2021 Louisiana lawmakers made a significant change to an essential law. They decided to pass SB4, to remove certain campaign finance limitations (Repeals R.S. 18:1505.2(H)(7)).

Elected officials from Louisiana are being scrutinized under the False Claims Act. Contributions alone are not enough for an investigation. Nonetheless, generous campaign contributions and confidential disclosures submitted to the Inspector General are enough evidence to lead to criminal prosecutions. 

Click the link to view the recipient’s federal award profile.

EntityLoan Amount
10 M MARINE LLC – PPP$22,793
FRISCHHERTZ & IMPASTATO– PPP$73,228
ADAMS & REESE PAC– PPP$9,300,000
ADVANCED STRATEGIES, INC.– PPP, DAL$70,958
AIRBOAT ADVENTURES LLC– EIDLEA, DAL$41,430
AL COPELAND INVESTMENTS, LLC– PPP$667,792
ALL SOUTH CONSULTING ENGINEERS INC.– PPP$788,432
ARTHUR AND BRENDA LAWSON– DAL$2,860
ASBESTOS ABATEMENT CONTRACTORS, INC.– PPP$40,688
ASSURING DESTINATIONS LLC– PPP, DAL$85,992
BASE LOGISTICS L.L.C.– PPP$313,775
B&S EQUIPMENT– EIDLEA$10,000
BFM– PPP, DAL, EIDLEA$305,216
BLAKE JONES LAW FIRM, LLC– PPP$362,901
BLUE CROSS LA PAC– PPP$416,747
BOHANNAN & ASSOCIATES LLC– PPP$55,233
BONANO ELECTRIC LLC– PPP $67,740
BOURGEOIS FISHING CHARTERS INC.– DAL$20,430
BRADLEY MURCHISON KELLY & SHEA LLC– PPP$1,200,000
BRYANT HAMMETT & ASSOCIATES LLC– PPP$444,977
CAJUN CONSULTING & INSPECTION,INC.– DAL, EIDLEA$22,622
CAMERON MURRAY AND ASSOCIATES, LLC PPP$16,072
CARR STONE & TILE INCORPORATED– PPP$273,853
CARY GOSS– PPP$1,300,000
CHALMETTE AMUSEMENT CO. INC.- PPP$134,715
CHAFFE MCCALL, LLP– PPP$1,900,000
CHARLES T CRAWFORD– EIDLEA$10,000
CHEHARDY, SHERMAN, WILLIAMS, LLP– PPP$1,200,000
COLVIN LAW FIRM– PPP$150,417
COMMAND CONSTRUCTION LLC– PPP, LG$156,733
CONNICK AND CONNICK, LLC– PPP$250,816
COOGAN & COOGAN– PPP$5,618
CORE CONSTRUCTION SERVICES, LLC– DAL, EIDLEA$2,662
COSSE LAW FIRM, LLC– DAL, EIDLEA$78,100
COURSON NICKEL, LLC– PPP$104,270
CRC LOGISTIC SERVICES– PPP$3,000,000
CROSBY TUGS, LLC– PPP$8,500,000
CYCLE MARINE GROUP INC– PPP$270,626
DAIQUIRI RUN 61, LLC– PPP$18,411
DAUL INSURANCE AGENCY– PPP$347,272
DEAN BLANCHARD SEAFOOD, INC.– PPP, EIDLEA$95,872
DELACROIX CORPORATION– – PPP$210,398
DIGITAL ENGINEERING & IMAGING INC.– PPP$603,606
DKD INVESTMENTS, LLC– EIDLEA$1,000
DLM ENTERPRISE NOLA LLC-DAL$232
DMC TOWING, LLC– EIDLEA, DAL$10,000
DOERR FURNITURE, INC.– DAL, EIDLEA$30,430
DOUGLAS B ROBERT– DAL$14,165
DUFRENE SURVEYING & ENGINEERING– PPP$176,077
EHLINGER MANAGEMENT CORP– PPP$67,283
ELOS ENVIRONMENTAL LLC– PPP$492,022
EVENT PRODUCERS– PPP$303,816
EXCEPTIONAL INSPECTIONS, LLC– PPP$20,437
FLAME CONSULTING LLC– PPP$22,370
GRAY & COMPANY, INC.– PPP3,200,000
HARRY CAHILL III– PPP, EIDLEA$11,96DAL9
HARTMAN ENGINEERING INC– PPP$166,516
HAYNIE & ASSOCIATES– PPP$114,435
HDA HARRIS DEVILLE & ASSOCIATES– PPP$282,105
HOME BUILDERS ASSOCIATION OF GREAT NEW ORLEANS PAC– PPP$75,955
HORIZON SECURITY AND VAULT COMPLEX, INC.– DAL$38,102
INDEPENDENT RX– PPP, DAL$95,358
INDUSTRIAL FABRICS, INC.– PPP$1,300,000
IV WASTE LLC– PPP$233,041
JANSEN ADJUSTERS INTERNATIONAL LLC– EIDLEA$10,000
J. CHRISTOPHER ALEXANDER, SR. LLC- DAL$14,778
KELLY DAUL– PPP $347,272
KEN-K TRUCKING– PPP, DAL$8,783
KING & JURGENS, LLC– PPP$1,100,000
LA RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION HOSPITALITY PAC (HOSTPAC)– PPP$350,183
LAKESIDE MORTGAGE INC– EIDLEA$4,000
LAMFH, LLC– PPP$98,567
LANDRUNNER AIRBOATS– DAL, PPP, EIDLEA$49,633
LIL MAN CONSTRUCTION, LLC– PPP$231,350
LINFIELD, HUNTER & JUNIUS, INC.– PPP$634,631
LITTLE DEUCES, INC.– PPP$56,031
LOUISIANA RESTAURANT ASSOCIATION– PPP$350,183
MAINTENANCE DREDGING I, LLC– PPP$538,302
MEL’S TRANSPORTATION II, LLC– PPP, EIDLEA$179,366
METRO GAMING & AMUSEMENT CO.– PPP$517,801
METROPOLITAN ERECTION, LLC– PPP$191,844
MEYERS ENGINEERS, LTD– PPP$906,223
MIDSHIP MARINE– PPP$948,946
NEW ERA INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES, LLC– PPP$227,883
NEW ORLEANS AIRBOAT TOURS– DAL, EIDLEA$30,430
NORTHWEST CORPORATION– PPP$240,820
ONE STAR LA INC.– PPP, DAL$74,934
PELICAN COAST CONSULTING– DAL, EIDLEA$2,226
PHOENIX GLOBAL ENGINEERING– PPP$73,093
PIVOTAL ENGINEERING LLC– PPP$210,581
PIVOTAL GR SOLUTIONS– PPP$21,192
PLANTATION TRUCK PLAZA– PPP$98,930
PREMIER CONCRETE PRODUCTS, INC.– PPP$748,056
PRINCIPAL ENGINEERING, INC.– PPP$297,022
PROVIDENCE ENGINEERING AND DESIGN– PPP$558,568
PUNCTUAL ABSTRACT– PPP$512,434
RICHARD C. LAMBERT CONSULTANTS, LLC– PPP$273,047
RJS TOWING LLC– DAL, PPP, EIDLEA$47,821
RUSSELL BURGDAHL– PPP$259,928
RYM ENTERPRISES, INC.– PPP$2,543
SAMUEL J SPURGEON– PPP$220,049
SEITHER’S SEAFOOD– PPP$69,373
SHELLDON LLC– DAL, PPP, EIDLEA$91,469
SHREAD-KUYRKENDALL & ASSOCIATES, INC.– PPP$379,721
SIGMA RISK MANAGEMENT– PPP$119,142
SOLUTIENT– PPP$364,160
STEP CONSTRUCTION LLC– DAL, EIDLEA$26,331
STERLING ELECTRIC INC.– PPP, EIDLEA$145,703
STUART CONSULTING GROUP– PPP$636,462
SYRACUSE TRAVERSE AND BREHM LLC– PPP$22,664
T3B SERVICES LLC PPP $313,894
THE PICARD GROUP– PPP$186,147
TOP DRAWER STRATEGIES, LLC– PPP, EIDLEA$38,602
TRIPLE BBB CONSTRUCTION, INC– EIDLEA$10,000
UNIVERSAL DATA, INC– PPP$432,005
VANDERBROOK & CO., LLC CPAS– PPP$56,138
VINCO IRONWORKS, INC.– PPP$81,643
WILLIAM VANDERBROOK CPA– PPP$56,138

Recouping Stolen Pandemic Loan Funds

On September 27, the U.S. House Committee on Small Business held a hearing. It was entitled “Action Through Innovation: Private Sector Solutions to Recouping Stolen Pandemic Loan Funds.” The hearing touched on different solutions. The Small Business Administration (SBA) could take these solutions to recoup fraudulent loans issued as part of pandemic lending programs.

“When the pandemic started, the SBA took on an outsized role in restarting our nation’s economy. The PPP and EIDL programs were vital to saving small businesses, but that fact does not excuse $200 billion in fraud,” explained Chairman Roger Williams (R-TX). “It’s a top priority of this Committee to recoup these stolen funds, and yesterday’s hearing looked at new, innovative private sector solutions to do just that. I’m very grateful for our four witnesses, and we’ll continue our work on holding these fraudsters accountable.”

Click the link to read the Statement of Michael E. Horowitz, Chair, Pandemic Response Accountability Committee, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Justice before the U.S. House of Representatives Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis about “Examining Federal Efforts To Prevent, Detect, And Prosecute Pandemic Relief Fraud To Safeguard Funds For All Eligible Americans”

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center (NWC), Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC successfully promoted legislation. This legislation supports the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020. It also includes amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest. Click here to donate Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC 2019. NWC’s mission is to support whistleblowers. They aid in efforts to expose corruption worldwide. They also help prosecute other wrongdoing globally.

1. 59.008 – Disaster Assistance Loans

2. 59.073 – Paycheck Protection Loan Program (PPP)

3. 59.072 – Economic Injury Disaster Loan Emergency Advance

 RS 14:26 SUBPART E. INCHOATE OFFENSES §26.  Criminal conspiracy A.  Criminal conspiracy is the agreement or combination of two or more persons for the specific purpose of committing any crime; provided that an agreement or combination to commit a crime shall not amount to a criminal conspiracy unless, in addition to such agreement or combination, one or more of such parties does an act in furtherance of the object of the agreement or combination.B.  If the intended basic crime has been consummated, the conspirators may be tried for either the conspiracy or the completed offense, and a conviction for one shall not bar prosecution for the other.

False Claims Act (FCA), 31 U.S.C. §3729 – 3733

During the 2021 Regular Session, Louisiana lawmakers passed SB4 by Senator Ed Price, which eliminates certain aggregate campaign contribution limitations. (8/1/21) Current Status: Signed by the Governor – Act 428

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Digital media provides measurable results. $500 can get you two banners in front of your target audience for an entire month. An effective advertising campaign will include placing ads across the Motion to Quash website using both branding and call-to-action messages. Click here to buy ads or use the QR code.

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Corruption Scorecards Jefferson Parish Councilman at Large Div. A

Tracie Burke | Motion to Quash LLC | October 6, 2023

Candidates for Jefferson Parish Councilman for the 2023 elections are being scrutinized under the False Claims Act. The False Claims Act is a federal law that imposes liability on those who defraud governmental programs. It is the federal government’s primary litigation tool in combating fraud against the government.

Corruption Scorecards Jefferson Parish Councilman at Large Div. A

An analysis of federal data was conducted by Motion to Quash LLC. It showed Council members Jennifer Van Vrancken and Ricky Templet received over a half million dollars. This came from over 350 entities that made political contributions. These contributions were made just before or after the entities received more than $73 million dollars in taxpayer-backed SBA loans. In both instances, candidates received large donations after companies they controlled, or companies owned by family members, obtained loans. Frankie Hayers, the only other candidate, financed his own campaign.

Candidate averageC73%
J. Frankie HyersA+100%
Ricky TempletD60%
Jennifer Van VranckenD60%

Family Connections

Balcony Enterprises Inc, a family owned enterprise, received a total of $365,491 from the SBA. Afterward, The Balcony Ballroom issued a political contribution to Jennifer Van Vrancken of $5,000.

Hearing Health Care of Louisiana Inc, owned by family member Ryan Templet, received $186,812 from the Paycheck Protection Program. After receiving the taxpayer backed funds, Ryan Templet issued $5000 to Ricky Templet’s political campaign. 

These funds were meant for struggling businesses. Generous campaign contributions just before or after receiving disaster assistance raises concerns about the legitimacy of their need for assistance. “It suggests the entities misled the SBA to obtain government funds and should be required to repay the taxpayers. Fraud schemes like this are the costliest for the taxpayers.” a spokesperson for the agency said.

Most Egregious Abuses of the PPP

The analysis identified two major abuses of the Paycheck Protection Program. These were Adams & Reese Law Firm and Harvey Gulf International Marine LLC.

Adams and Reese Law Firm received $9.2 million dollars from the taxpayer backed Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Later, Adams and Reese and ARPAC issued nearly $800,000 in political contributions. This amount includes over $100,000 paid to its own Political Action Committee.

Harvey Gulf International Marine LLC received $8.8 million dollars from the Paycheck Protection Program. They then issued over $600,000 to political campaigns. This included $100,000 to the Republican Party and $100,000 to Louisiana Citizens for Job Creators Inc.

Recouping Stolen Pandemic Loan Funds

Motion to Quash is a powerful representation of the fight against corruption in Jefferson Parish. The Anti Corruption Scorecard serves as a reminder of the importance of transparency and honesty in our political system. The scorecards are adequate to give precise assessments. They offer reliable and sound judgment of campaign finance abuse. This is particularly useful for those interested in the 2023 Elections and the stand against corruption.

Contributions alone are not enough for an investigation. Nevertheless, generous campaign contributions and confidential disclosures submitted to the Inspector General are enough evidence to lead to criminal prosecutions. 

U.S. House Committee on Small Business

On September 27, the U.S. House Committee on Small Business held a hearing. It was entitled “Action Through Innovation: Private Sector Solutions to Recouping Stolen Pandemic Loan Funds.” The hearing explored various solutions. The Small Business Administration (SBA) plans to implement these solutions to recoup fraudulent loans from pandemic lending programs.

“When the pandemic started, the SBA took on an outsized role in restarting our nation’s economy. The PPP and EIDL programs were vital to saving small businesses, but that fact does not excuse $200 billion in fraud,” explained Chairman Roger Williams (R-TX). “It’s a top priority of this Committee to recoup these stolen funds, and yesterday’s hearing looked at new, innovative private sector solutions to do just that. I’m very grateful for our four witnesses, and we’ll continue our work on holding these fraudsters accountable.”

Click the link to read the Statement of Michael E. Horowitz, Chair, Pandemic Response Accountability Committee, Inspector General, U.S. Department of Justice before the U.S. House of Representatives Select Subcommittee on the Coronavirus Crisis about “Examining Federal Efforts To Prevent, Detect, And Prosecute Pandemic Relief Fraud To Safeguard Funds For All Eligible Americans”

Campaign finance reports were obtained from the Louisiana Ethics Board website. Disaster Recipient Profiles were found at usaspending.gov.

Methodology

For consistency, the total scores were based on these three principles:

  1. Campaign contributions issued (5 points)
  2. Campaign contributions received (5 points)
  3. Disclosures/conflicts of interest (5 points)

Only when candidates scored 15 for the whole package did they score 100 percent. 

Campaigns are dynamic. We welcome your feedback. If you see a candidate’s position has changed, send us an email to info@motiontoquash.org with the new information.

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center (NWC), Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of motiontoquash.org. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC successfully promoted legislation that supports the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020. They also supported amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by contributing today. Click here to donate Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC 2019.  NWC’s mission is to support whistleblowers. They also help prosecute other wrongdoing around the world. 

External link

Advertise with Motion to Quash LLC

external link

Digital media provides measurable results. $500 can get you two banners in front of your target audience for an entire month. An effective advertising campaign will include placing ads across the Motion to Quash website using both branding and call-to-action messages. Click here to buy ads or use the QR code.

External link

Corruption Scorecards for Jefferson Parish House of Representatives Election 2023

Tracie Burke | Motion to Quash LLC | Sept. 22, 2023

Louisiana State Representatives are being scrutinized under the False Claims Act for receiving payments from over 100 entities that received over $200 million dollars in taxpayer backed Disaster Assistance, according to an analysis of federal government data by Motion to Quash LLC. 

The investigation of loan fraud by PPP loan recipients and Louisiana lawmakers is alarming. Businesses issued large political donations after receiving taxpayer backed pandemic loans, raising concerns about the legitimacy of their need for assistance. “Loan recipients who issued campaign contributions after receiving their awards should be required to repay the loans,” a spokesperson for the agency said. “Fraud schemes such as this are the costliest for the taxpayers.”

Motion to Quash is a powerful representation of the fight against corruption in Jefferson Parish, with the State Representative Anti Corruption Scorecard serving as a reminder of the importance of transparency and honesty in our political system. The scorecards are sufficient to provide accurate, reliable and sound judgment of campaign finance abuse, particularly for those interested in the 2023 Elections and the stand against corruption.

Campaign finance reports were obtained from the Louisiana Ethics Board website. Disaster Relief Profiles were found at usaspending.gov.

Click the name to view each candidate’s folder.

Joseph OrgeronC73%
John IllgD67%
Debbie VillioD60%
Polly ThomasD67%
Laurie SchlegelB-80%
Kyle Green JrB+87%
Reginald JasminA+100%
Timothy KernerF47%
Andrew BennettA+100%
Vincent Cox IIIF47%
Andrea ManuelA+100%
Rodney Lyons SrD63%
Trent Mackey Jr.A+100%
Michael SigurD67%
Joseph StagniD67%
Stephanie HilfertyC73%
Charles MarsalaA+100%
Jacob BraudF53%
Joanna LeopoldD67%
Mack CormierD60%
Donald ValleeA+97%
SCORE DISTRIBUTION OVERVIEW

Of the 21 candidates for State Representative on the Jefferson Parish sample ballot, 6 scored A+ (28.6%), 1 scored B+ (4.8%), 1 scored B- (4.8%), 2 scored C (9.5%), 8 scored D (38.1%), and 3 scored F (14.3%)

Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI)

From the time period 2020 to the present, candidates received a grand total of contributions over $1.4 million dollars including a sum of over $600,000 from pharmaceuticals, gaming interests, government contractors, and PPP disaster recipients. By far the most frequent recipient is Timothy Kerner Sr.

Methodology

For consistency, the total scores were based on these three principles:

  1. Campaign contributions issued (5 points)
  2. Campaign contributions received (5 points)
  3. Disclosures/conflicts of interest (5 points)

Only when candidates scored 15 for the whole package did they score 100 percent. 

Campaigns are dynamic. We welcome your feedback. If you see a candidate’s position has changed, send us an email to info@motiontoquash.org with the new information.

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center, Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of Motion to Quash. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC  successfully promoted legislation that supports the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020 and amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by contributing today. Click here to donate Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC. 

Jefferson Parish State Senator Corruption Scorecard 2023

Tracie Burke | Motion to Quash LLC | August 27, 2023

Use of political campaign funds has been of great interest lately among Louisiana voters and members of the Louisiana Board of Ethics. The Motion to Quash scorecards are sufficient to provide accurate, reliable and sound judgment of campaign finance abuse. Motion to Quash identifies quid pro quo by compiling and analyzing campaign contribution data and through its understanding of the electoral and public policy-making process.

Anti Corruption Scorecard for Jefferson Parish State Senator Candidates 

Click the name to view each folder.
Jefferson Parish Sample Ballot
State Senator
Total (cumulative):15
Candidate averageC75%
Royce DuplessisC73%
Gary Carter Jr.C73%
Patrick ConnickB-80%
Timothy Kerner Jr.F53%
J. Cameron Henry Jr.C73%
Mary Ann MushattA+100%
Kirk TalbotC73%
Marilyn BellockA+100%
Gregory MillerC73%
Overview

SCORE DISTRIBUTION

Of the 9 candidates for State Senator on the Jefferson Parish sample ballot, 2 scored A+ (22.2%), 1 scored B- (11.1%), 5 scored C (55.6%), and 1 scored F (11.1%).

Organizational Conflicts of Interest (OCI)

Candidates received a sum of $225,670 from pharmaceuticals, gaming interests, and government contractors. The most frequent recipients are Kirk Talbot and Timothy Kerner. 



Methodology

For consistency, the total scores were based on these three principles:

  1. Campaign contributions issued (5 points)
  2. Campaign contributions received (5 points)
  3. Disclosures/conflicts of interest (5 points)

Only when candidates scored 15 for the whole package did they score 100 percent. 

Campaigns are dynamic. We welcome your feedback. If you see a candidate’s position has changed, send us an email to info@motiontoquash.org with the new information.

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center, Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of Motion to Quash. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC successfully promoted legislation that supports the American Money Laundering Act and the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by donating today. Click here to donate. The National Whistleblower Center (NWC) is the leading nonprofit dedicated to protecting and rewarding whistleblowers around the world. 

Jefferson Parish Anti-Corruption Scorecard for 3/26/2022 Election

By Tracie Burke | Motion to Quash LLC | March 7, 2022

Motion to Quash LLC investigated long standing campaign finance abuse in Jefferson Parish to create the scorecards for this election. 

We created a comprehensive list of campaign contributions for the candidates. The campaign contributions were totaled on the time period from March 6, 2007- to March 6, 2022. The grand total was $3,631,929.

Loans, contractor contributions, and gaming interests were included in the totals.

Only four (22%) of the eighteen candidates scored A+ for anti-corruption, while five (28%) of the candidates scored F.

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The total campaign contributions were based on the financial statements for the candidates on the Board of Ethics website. 

Download the spreadsheet and click on the Grades tab to view the scorecard. Then, click on the name to view the candidate’s folder.

Jefferson-Parish-Anti-Corruption-Scorecard-Election-03-26-2022b
Download

Methodology

For consistency, the total scores were based on these three principles:

  1. Campaign contributions issued (5 points)
  2. Campaign contributions received (5 points)
  3. Disclosures/conflicts of interest (5 points)

Only when they scored 15 for the whole package did they score 100 percent. 

Campaigns are dynamic. We welcome your feedback. If you see a candidate’s position has changed, send us an email to info@motiontoquash.org with the new information.

Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of Motion to Quash. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC promotes legislation that supports the American Anti-Corruption Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by donating today. Click here to donate.

©Motion to Quash LLC Gretna, LA 70053

Statewide Anti Corruption Scorecards Nov. 2021

By Tracie Burke | Motion to Quash LLC | September 26, 2021

External Link

Integrity is a top issue facing Louisiana voters. Unfair business practices and long standing financial connections are breeding grounds for corruption. See how candidates score on integrity for the November 2021 Statewide/Multi-Parish Elections.

We based the candidate integrity scores on these three principles: Campaign Contributions Issued, Campaign Contributions Received, and Disclosures/Conflicts of Interest. 

Click here to view the SCORECARD. You can download and print the complimentary spreadsheet. Click on the Grades Tab to view each Candidate’s folder.

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METHODOLOGY

Candidates are graded on the number of critical issues for anti-corruption listed in the candidate scorecard, as divided into three overarching principles. We believe all of these issues are crucial for candidate integrity. 

We assigned a total possible score of 5 for each principle. For the sake of consistency, we treat individual issues equally: calculating fewer of these critical issues gets candidates a higher score—and only when they score 15 for the whole package do they score 100 percent.

We compiled candidate information from their campaign websites, in interviews, or from public and private sources. 

Campaigns are dynamic. We welcome your feedback—if you see a candidate’s position has changed, send us an email to info@motiontoquash.org  with the new information.

Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of Motion to Quash. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC promotes legislation that supports the American Anti-Corruption Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by contributing today. Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC 2019 Click here to donate.

Statewide Multi-Parish Candidates- November 2021Download

2020 Candidate Integrity SCORECARD- Justice of the Peace & Constable- Jefferson Parish

Tracie Burke | Motion to Quash LLC | October 23, 2020

Integrity is a top issue facing Jefferson Parish voters. Discover how Justice of the Peace and Constable candidates in Jefferson Parish score on integrity. Review their financial disclosures and campaign finance reports. Then ask the candidates to pledge to Join the Campaign for Judicial Integrity in Louisiana.          

We based the integrity scores on these three principles: 

1. Campaign Contributions Issued

2. Campaign Contributions Received

3. Financial Disclosure Statements. 

Click below to view the SCORECARDS. You can download the complimentary spreadsheet. Candidate review folders are available upon request to: info@motiontoquash.org.

2020-Candidate-Scoresheet-Jefferson-Parish-Justice-of-the-Peace-Const-1-2Download

METHODOLOGY

Candidates are graded based on the number of critical issues for anti-corruption. These issues are listed in the candidate scorecard and divided into three overarching principles. We believe all of these issues are crucial to unrigging our broken system. 

We assigned a total possible score of 5 for each principle. For the sake of consistency, we treat individual issues equally. Calculating fewer of these critical issues gets candidates a higher score. Only when they score 15 for the whole package do they get 100 percent.

We compiled candidate information from their campaign websites, in interviews, or from public and private resources. 

Campaigns are dynamic. We welcome your feedback—if you see a candidate’s position has changed, send us an email at info@motiontoquash.org  with the new information.

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center (NWC), Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of motiontoquash.org. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC successfully promoted legislation that supports the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020. They also supported amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by contributing today. Click here to donate Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC 2019.  NWC’s mission is to support whistleblowers. They also help prosecute other wrongdoing around the world. 

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Join the Campaign for Judicial Integrity in Louisiana

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Have you ever been affected by a Judge’s decision in Louisiana? Did the decision affect you in such a way that you lost money? Were you left at risk of ongoing abuse? Or were you denied to see your children? Chances are that you have. Did you feel the court was corrupt? If so, Motion to Quash LLC has the solution. Join the Campaign for Judicial Integrity in Louisiana.

We want the public to get precise and understandable information. We aim to show what you can do to rid Louisiana of Judicial corruption. Join the Campaign for Judicial Integrity in Louisiana to tackle and solve those problems. Help make justice right. Work towards removing bad and corrupt judges from the Louisiana judiciary.

Harmful Effect of Money in Louisiana Government

Motion to Quash LLC takes action against government corruption and retribution in Louisiana. No one can get a fair trial before judges who get illegal payments from attorneys. Judges also obtain retroactive immunity from criminal prosecution.

A significant number of judges in Louisiana get illegal payments from attorneys in the form of campaign contributions. Motion to Quash LLC is working to pass legislation. The goal is to make sure that any judge who gets contributions from attorneys can’t stay on the seat. This applies to the district where the attorneys practice. What You Can Do to Rid the Louisiana Judiciary of Bad and Corrupt Judges

There is continuing fraud before the courts in Louisiana and the Louisiana judicial system is in a crisis. This is the underlying story. Judges get illegal contributions and payments. These acts are done to increase their own interests. This conduct has corrupted the Louisiana judicial system.

The Louisiana Supreme Court and Court of Appeal Justices have always known this issue. Many Louisiana judges sit on cases where they should not. The judges are disqualified under the law. This disqualification arises because the attorney gave them a criminal payment. The attorney: (1) appears before them as a party; (2) appears as a witness; or (3) has an interest.

The mission of the Campaign for Judicial Integrity in Louisiana is to disqualify judges who receive money from attorneys. It aims to end corruption and take back our judicial system.

How to Disqualify Your Judge

Responsibility falls on citizens to reclaim our justice system. The method is for the people to file LA Code Crim Pro 987 based on fraud upon the court. The Motion to Set Aside Conviction and Dismiss Prosecution forms are to be used. Use the Rule to Show Cause forms as well. Order of Dismissal forms should be included. Here is a link to the forms provided by LSAC http://www.lasc.org/rules/City_Parish/Uniform_Forms_for_City_Parish_Courts.pdf

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Federal laws provide an opportunity to reverse the judge’s ruling. They allow moving forward with working the case to its logical conclusion. The Supremacy Clause of the Constitution of the United States (Article VI, Clause 2) establishes the primacy of certain laws. This includes the Constitution, federal laws made pursuant to it, and treaties made under its authority. They are the “supreme Law of the Land”. These laws take precedence. They have priority over any conflicting state laws.

Section 1346 of Title 18, United States Code provides an intangible right to honest services.  Federal prosecutors have applied the statute in cases of public corruption. They have also used it in cases where private individuals breached a fiduciary duty to another.

Exercise Your Rights & Contact Your Legislators

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Motion to Quash LLC is drafting legislation. They are sending it to every legislator. The goal is to stop any judge from receiving payments. These payments come from attorneys who may appear before them. The next step for you, the voters, is to exercise your rights. Contact your legislators, who are your representatives. They work for you. Urge them to get the amendment passed. Remember, these payments have affected every aspect of the court system, so now is the time for action.

If a judicial decision or a corrupt judge has hurt you, take action. This is the only thing that you can do. “Protesting in the street is not going to get you anywhere. Making music or noise is not going to get you anywhere. Exercising your right will get you somewhere.” – Dr. Richard Fine, Founder, Vote for Justice, Campaign for Judicial Integrity.

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center (NWC), Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of motiontoquash.org. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC successfully promoted legislation. This legislation supports the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020. It also includes amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by contributing today. Click here to donate Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC 2019.  NWC’s mission is to support whistleblowers. They help in their efforts to expose and help prosecute corruption. This includes other wrongdoing around the world. 

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Advertise with Motion to Quash LLC

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Digital media provides measurable results. $500 can get you two banners in front of your target audience for an entire month. An effective advertising campaign will include placing ads across the Motion to Quash website using both branding and call-to-action messages. Click here to buy ads or use the QR code.

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In the Matter of Marion Edwards

By Tracie Burke | Motion to Quash LLC | August 14, 2019 

The purpose of the Motion to Quash LLC Blacklist is to analyze the Jefferson Parish elected officials and candidates. The focus is on reports of unfair business practices, discrimination, and corruption. It also emphasizes key issues that can inform campaign contribution policy and guide further campaign laws. In particular, this report focuses on problems and issues in the matter of candidate for Jefferson Parish council, Marion Edwards. 

Methodology

Motion to Quash LLC conducted a procedure that utilized observations of program operations. These operations were conducted by the OJP Court Clearinghouse and pertained to technical assistance project assignment number 154. This work was for the 24th Judicial Court. It included the organization of the treatment module and the provision of critical services by the drug court program. Motion to Quash also obtained information by querying the Louisiana Secretary of State Commercial Division. They accessed the Louisiana Ethics Board campaign finance portal and PACER. Additionally, they conducted a telephone interview with the Louisiana Ethics Board Executive Secretary.

Section A. Issues and Problems Implementing the Drug Court Program

1. Unrealistic Program Design

  • Lacking too many critical areas needed for the for the delivery of sound services
  • Unrealistic program design needed to be simplified to a more reasonable treatment design
  • No grievance procedure

 2.  Discrimination

  • The ethnic gender diversity program of staff was not reflective of the community population 
  • More minorities and women needed to be recruited as clinicians to work this program
  • Staff needed Cultural Competence training

3. Confidentiality Laws

  • Staff needed comprehensive training in federal confidentiality regulations, 42 CFR.

The review of the treatment program of the 24th Judicial District  intense program probation drug court Jefferson Parish Louisiana was prepared by the OJP Drug Court Clearinghouse and Technical Assistance Project at American University, Washington, D.C. 

Section B. Conflict of Interest- Director of Responsibility House Inc. 

Responsibility House Incorporated RH is a private non-profit organization for substance abuse treatment.

  1. Marion Edwards was appointed Director of Responsibility House Inc.- a conflict of interest because clients were referred from the court/judicial system.
  2. No annual report for Responsibility House Inc. filed with the Louisiana Secretary of State 

Section C.- Over 20 businesses not in good standing, revoked by the Louisiana Secretary of State

1. – This signifies a willful attempt to evade or defeat any tax imposed by Tax Titles and shall be guilty of a felony, an attempt to reduce tax liability by deceit subterfuge, or concealing information.

Section D- Bribes through Campaign Contributions

       A. Several consultant groups, engineers, and construction companies do business with the Parish. Special interest groups are also involved. They have issued campaign contributions totaling $103,8000.

Section V- Excessive Civil Rights Complaints

Exceeding 20 complaints against Marion Edwards for Injunctive Relief and Damages brought under 42 U.S.C. Sec. 1983 in connection with but not limited to the following violations:

  • 42 U.S.C. Sec. 1981 Equal Rights
  • 42 U.S.C. Sec. 1985 Conspiracy to Interfere With Human Rights
  • 42 U.S.C Sec. 1986 Action for Neglect to Prevent Conspiracy

Conclusion

Marion Edwards’ long standing financial ties to Jefferson Parish has unbalanced the scales of justice. After reviewing Marion Edwards’ practices, several problems and issues have been outlined. Motion to Quash LLC’s consideration is to ask that the Ethics Adjudicatory Board conduct a hearing on the foregoing charges. They should decide that Marion Edwards violated La. R.S. 42:111A(1)(a), La. R.S. 42:1111C(1)(a), and La. R.S. 42:111C(2)(b). The board should assess appropriate penalties. This assessment should follow the recommendation of the Louisiana Board of Ethics, which will be submitted at a hearing. 

Recognized by the National Whistleblower Center (NWC), Tracie Burke is Louisiana author of motiontoquash.org. She can be reached at tracie@motiontoquash.org. Motion to Quash LLC successfully promoted legislation that supports the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2020. They also supported amendments to the Whistleblower Protection Act. Please Support journalism in the public interest by contributing today. Click here to donate Motion to Quash ISSN 2644-1594 is the copyrighted property of Motion to Quash LLC 2019.  NWC’s mission is to support whistleblowers. They also help prosecute other wrongdoing around the world. 

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Advertise with Motion to Quash LLC

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Digital media provides measurable results. $500 can get you two banners in front of your target audience for an entire month. An effective advertising campaign will include placing ads across the Motion to Quash website using both branding and call-to-action messages. Click here to buy ads or use the QR code.

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