A former detention officer at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Basile, Louisiana, has pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of sexual abuse involving an individual in federal custody, according to court records and statements made during proceedings.
Defendant and Court Proceedings
David Courvelle, 56, entered a guilty plea on Monday, Dec. 29, before U.S. District Judge Robert Summerhays in federal court in Lafayette as part of a plea agreement with prosecutors.
The charge—sexual abuse of a ward or individual in federal custody—carries a statutory maximum penalty of up to 15 years in prison, along with potential financial penalties.
Employment and Facility Details
According to court records:
- Courvelle was employed as a contract detention officer at the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center.
- The facility is operated by GEO Group Inc.
- His employment at the facility spanned from Jan. 1 through July 30.
- The center houses women and detainees of various gender identities.
Allegations and Conduct
Federal prosecutors stated that Courvelle engaged in a prohibited relationship with a detainee identified in court documents as C.H., a Nicaraguan national held on an immigration matter.
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According to court filings:
- Courvelle initiated a personal and romantic relationship with the detainee.
- Between May and July, he engaged in sexual contact with the detainee while she remained under his custodial authority.
- Encounters reportedly occurred inside the detention facility, including in a janitorial closet.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Johnson stated in court that Courvelle allegedly arranged for other detainees to act as lookouts during these encounters.
Discovery and Investigation
The conduct came to the attention of facility staff and investigators under the following circumstances:
- On July 16, staff observed Courvelle and the detainee exiting a janitorial closet.
- Following this observation, Courvelle was transferred to another housing unit.
- Prosecutors allege Courvelle smuggled items into the facility, including food, jewelry, letters, and photographs of the detainee’s daughter.
- Courvelle resigned on July 30 after learning investigators had obtained recorded phone calls between him and the detainee.
During a September interview with agents from the ICE Office of Inspector General, Courvelle initially denied the relationship before later admitting to it, according to prosecutors.
Bond and Sentencing Exposure
Judge Summerhays advised that the offense carries:
- A maximum prison sentence of up to 15 years
- A potential fine of up to $250,000
Courvelle was released on a $10,000 bond following the plea hearing.
Current Status
- Defendant has entered a guilty plea in federal court.
- He remains released on bond pending sentencing.
- Sentencing is scheduled for April 10, 2026.
Legal Context
Federal law prohibits sexual contact between detention staff and individuals in custody, regardless of consent, due to the inherent imbalance of authority and custodial control.
FAQ
What charge did the defendant plead guilty to?
Sexual abuse of a ward or individual in federal custody.
Where did the alleged conduct occur?
Inside the South Louisiana ICE Processing Center in Basile, Louisiana.
Was the detainee identified publicly?
No. The detainee is identified in court records only by initials (C.H.).
What is the maximum penalty for the charge?
Up to 15 years in prison and a possible $250,000 fine.
When is sentencing scheduled?
April 10, 2026.
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