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Former ICE detention officer pleads guilty to sexually abusing detainee

Dec 29, 2025 · Basile, LA, Nicaragua

Former ICE detention officer pleads guilty to sexually abusing detainee

David Courvelle, a former contract detention officer at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Basile, Louisiana, pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a Nicaraguan detainee in federal custody. Between May and July 2025, Courvelle engaged in multiple sexual encounters with the detainee inside the facility, including in a janitorial closet, while enlisting other detainees to act as lookouts. He also smuggled gifts into the facility to maintain the relationship. The case was uncovered when investigators obtained recordings of phone calls between Courvelle and the detainee, prompting his resignation.

Timeline

Dec 29, 2025Courvelle pleads guilty to sexually abusing detainee in federal court.
Dec 1, 2025Investigators obtain phone call recordings between Courvelle and detainee; Courvelle resigns.
May 1, 2025David Courvelle begins sexually abusing Nicaraguan detainee at South Louisiana ICE Processing Center through July 2025.

Sources

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