In a move to safeguard herself and her family, New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has initiated legal proceedings by filing a temporary restraining order against an individual accused of stalking her.
According to court records from the Orleans Parish Civil District Court, Cantrell alleges that Anne Breaud has engaged in persistent and aggressive behavior, including capturing photographs and videos of her over a span of two years.
The mayor cited an incident in April 2024 where Breaud allegedly intrusively documented Cantrell’s activities, raising concerns for her safety and that of her family.
The filing of the restraining order follows a recent incident involving Cantrell dining with Jeffrey Vappie, a New Orleans police officer and member of her security team, which garnered public attention.
Vappie has since been placed on administrative leave pending further investigation.
While Vappie’s involvement was not cited in Cantrell’s protective order request, questions surrounding his conduct have surfaced, prompting scrutiny from the Metropolitan Crime Commission, a police oversight organization.
Despite Breaud denying any involvement in sharing media materials with the press, Cantrell’s legal action aims to enforce restrictions preventing Breaud from approaching within 100 yards of the mayor, her residence, or city hall, and prohibits any form of contact with Cantrell or her family.
The restraining order, granted by Judge Paulette Iron for a ten-day period, is subject to a hearing scheduled for May 20.
However, legal analysts have raised concerns regarding the necessity and appropriateness of such measures, particularly in the context of public figures like Cantrell.
