Gambling addiction is cited in ex-trooper’s fraud case

Thursday, July 7, 2005 | 9:30 a.m.

BATON ROUGE, La. -- A former state police sergeant who said he has a gambling addiction has pleaded guilty to federal bank and mail fraud charges.

James E. Jordan faces up to 65 years in prison and $2.25 million in fines following his pleas Tuesday. U.S. District Judge Ralph Tyson said he would set a sentencing date later.

Defense attorney Frank Holthaus said he contacted prosecutors, at Jordan's request, after the former trooper told him about his gambling problem and his fraudulent activities.

Jordan admitted that, beginning in 2002 and continuing into 2004, he forged title documents and bills of sale to embezzle cars and motorcycles from his employer, Dean Classic Cars. He used the vehicles to secure more than $350,000 in loans.

Prosecutors said Jordan also forged two checks totaling nearly $300,000 and used his father's identity to get four credit cards on which nearly $40,000 was charged.

Jordan worked for state police for 16 years. He took a medical disability retirement in 1997 after injuring his wrist in a car crash.

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