Recent Orleans Attorneys Face Sentencing in Staged Crash Scheme

A jury has concluded deliberations in the federal trial of two New Orleans attorneys, Vanessa Motta and Jason Giles, accused of orchestrating a large-scale scheme involving staged car crashes with 18-wheelers. The verdict will determine their fate on charges of conspiracy, mail fraud, obstruction of justice, and witness tampering.

The Scheme Unveiled

Prosecutors allege that Motta and Giles knowingly participated in a scheme where individuals were recruited to act as passengers in vehicles intentionally crashed into tractor-trailers. These “slammer” drivers would sideswipe the 18-wheelers, and subsequent lawsuits would be filed seeking substantial insurance settlements against the trucking companies. The scheme, first exposed by WWL Louisiana six years ago in Mike Perlstein’s “Highway Robbery” investigative series, involved recruiting individuals to pose as injured passengers.

Defense Arguments

The defense teams for Motta and Giles argue that the actions, at most, constitute professional negligence and were not a criminal conspiracy. Motta’s attorney specifically stated that she was a young and inexperienced lawyer who was unduly influenced by others.

Witness Testimony

During the trial, jurors heard testimony from a range of witnesses, including alleged victims, individuals who admitted involvement in the staged crashes, an FBI special agent, and a lawyer familiar with the alleged operation of the scheme. Cornelius Garrison, an alleged “slammer,” was among those who testified before his death in September 2020.

Wider Investigation and Guilty Pleas

The federal investigation into the staged crash scheme has already resulted in over 50 guilty pleas. The fraudulent activity is believed to contribute to inflated insurance premiums for drivers in Louisiana.

Ongoing Legal Proceedings

As of March 20, 2026, the jury’s decision is pending. The outcome of this case will likely have significant implications for those involved and could set a precedent for similar cases in the future.

Sources: WWL-TV, NOLA.com, WDSU, Fox8Live