Democratic Party official arrested by federal agents

The Associated Press

A member of the Louisiana Democratic Party's central committee has been arrested by federal agents who accused him of harboring aliens, his defense attorney said Wednesday.

Lenny Dartez, the husband of state Rep. Carla Dartez, a Democrat representing the Morgan City area, was taken into custody Tuesday at his business, said Dartez's attorney, Mike Skinner. Dartez employs labor crews in the area, Skinner said.

Dartez was named in a federal complaint issued by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and taken to a federal magistrate in Lafayette, who released him on his own recognizance, Skinner said.

No formal charges had been filed. Skinner said he could not discuss the case further.

"He insists he is innocent and looks forward to being vindicated if charges are brought," Skinner said.

Carla Dartez, who is seeking her third term from the House's 51st district, has drawn three opponents: Republican Joe Harrison, Democrat Estelle Mahoney and Democrat Nick Morris.

http://www.houmatoday.com/article/20070 ... /709260920