U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement arrested a New Orleans Police Department recruit last week after determining the individual was unlawfully present in the United States and ineligible to possess a firearm, according to federal authorities.
ICE officials said Larry Temah, 46, a native of Cameroon, was taken into custody on Jan. 28—approximately one week before he was scheduled to graduate from the New Orleans Police Department academy. Federal officials stated that Temah had been issued a firearm as part of his training despite lacking lawful immigration status and valid work authorization.
According to ICE, Temah entered the United States legally in 2015 on a visitor visa. In 2016, he obtained conditional residency after marrying a U.S. citizen. His application for permanent residency was later denied in 2022 after immigration officials determined the application involved fraud.
ICE said Temah was ordered to appear in immigration court on three occasions but failed to do so. An immigration judge subsequently ordered his removal in absentia. Federal authorities stated that Temah remained in the country without authorization and was not legally permitted to work or possess a firearm.
Federal law prohibits individuals who are unlawfully present in the United States from possessing firearms.
Temah remains in ICE custody pending removal proceedings.
In a statement, DHS Assistant Secretary for Public Affairs Tricia McLaughlin said the case raises concerns about hiring practices within local law enforcement agencies.
McLaughlin said Temah’s arrest underscores the administration’s enforcement priorities under President Donald Trump and Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, stating that ICE is focused on restoring compliance with federal immigration and firearms laws.
ICE officials also noted that the agency continues to place immigration detainers on individuals unlawfully present in the United States and said local policies limiting cooperation with federal immigration authorities can complicate enforcement efforts.
The New Orleans Police Department has not publicly commented on the arrest or on how Temah was cleared for employment and training.
