The U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana would like to honor the lives and legacies of two of its cherished court security officers: Michael Riley, who passed away on September 24, 2020, and Richard LeBlanc, who passed away on May 14, 2023.   Michael Riley served as a Court Security Officer for the Eastern District until his passing.  Prior to his service at the Eastern District, he served for over 30 years with the New Orleans Police Department.  Recently, his career was recognized at National Police Week in Washington, D.C.   Richard LeBlanc served as a Court Security Officer for the Eastern District until his recent passing.  All in all, he served for over 50 years as a law enforcement professional. The Eastern District sends its sincerest condolences to the officers’ families.  Michael and Richard will both be sorely missed and fondly remembered by the entire court family.      CSO Richard LeBlanc CSO Michael Riley National Police Week, Washinton, D.C.  

On May 4, 2023, the Honorable Greg G. Guidry, U.S. District Judge for the Eastern District of Louisiana, presided over a naturalization ceremony in which 23 individuals became United States citizens.  Immigration attorney, Kathleen Gasparian, served as keynote speaker.  In her remarks, Ms. Gasparian praised the petitioners for their courage and sacrifice and thanked them for their contributions to American society and culture.  Peter Mansfield, Chief of the Civil Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office (EDLA), served as the Attorney General’s designee and certified the petitioners’ eligibility for citizenship.  Dedra Pongracz, Case Manager for Judge Guidry, administered the Oath of Allegiance, and the Marine Forces Reserve Band provided musical accompaniment.  To view photos from the ceremony, please select this link.