On March 8, 2024, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans revealed that Joseph Carsice, a 38-year-old resident of New Orleans, has been formally accused in connection with a series of violent crimes, including a bank robbery and attempted carjackings.
According to the details shared, Carsice, on December 15, 2023, allegedly carried out a robbery at the Hancock Whitney Bank’s branch, where he is said to have used a firearm to intimidate those present. Carsice is accused of attempting to forcibly steal three vehicles: a 2016 Toyota Prius, a 2010 Toyota Camry, and a 2011 Chevrolet Silverado.
The legal charges against Carsice are detailed in a five-count indictment. The first count accuses him of armed bank robbery, which could lead to a sentence of up to 25 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and five years of supervised release if he is found guilty.
The second count relates to his alleged use of a firearm during the commission of a crime, a conviction for which could add a seven-year mandatory imprisonment term to any other sentence, alongside similar fines and supervised release terms.
Jefferson Parish man (Credits: Fox 8)
The remaining counts pertain to the attempted carjackings, each carrying potential penalties of 15 years in prison, $250,000 in fines, and three years of supervised release. Additionally, Carsice faces a $100 special assessment fee for each count if convicted.
It is important to note that these charges are part of a formal indictment, and Carsice’s guilt has yet to be proven in court. The presumption of innocence remains until and unless evidence presented in a court of law establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
This case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a nationwide initiative to reduce violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve.
Outside New Orleans bank (Credits: NOLA.com)
Launched by the Department of Justice, this strategy focuses on building community trust, supporting organizations working on violence prevention, strategically targeting enforcement efforts, and evaluating the outcomes of these efforts.
The investigation leading to these charges was a cooperative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department, showcasing the collaborative spirit of PSN.
Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crimes Unit is tasked with leading the prosecution, emphasizing the commitment of the U.S. Attorney’s Office to bringing those who commit violent crimes to justice.
