New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell is under fire, facing ethics charges for allegedly violating Louisiana’s state ethics laws by accepting nearly $29,000 in first-class flight upgrades. Over two years, she upgraded 15 flights, claiming that economy class posed a safety risk.
This justification raises eyebrows as she charged taxpayers for luxurious upgrades, from domestic trips to international getaways. The Louisiana Board of Ethics is taking action, accusing Cantrell of improperly receiving these benefits, which have ignited public outrage.
Flights like her June 2022 trip to Milan saw a shocking $7,210 upgrade. While her explanation stirs debate, the legal issues are clear: officials are forbidden from receiving gifts or benefits that violate state rules.
The following is a detailed breakdown of the upgrades:
-
Sept. 29, 2021 — Washington D.C.
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $100.40
-
Oct. 2, 2021 — Dayton, Ohio
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $591.70
-
Nov. 30, 2021 — Washington D.C.
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $106.10
-
Jan. 18, 2022 — Washington D.C.
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $1,424.80
-
April 6, 2022 — San Francisco, California
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $2,352
-
May 8, 2022 — Miami Beach, Florida
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $558
-
June 22, 2022 — Milan, Italy
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $7,210
-
June 27, 2022 — Ascona, Switzerland
- Flight Class: First
- Cost Difference: $32.19
-
Aug. 1, 2022 — Washington D.C.
-
Flight Class: First
-
Cost Difference: [Amount not specified in the provided summary]
-
Sources: