Ex-New Orleans Vendor Arraigned In Contract Case

NEW ORLEANS (AP) — A one-time city vendor pleaded not guilty Thursday to engaging in a kickback scheme involving contracts for New Orleans' crime surveillance program.

A federal grand jury on Friday issued a 63-count indictment, including charges of bribery and wire fraud, against businessman Mark St. Pierre, 46; former New Orleans technology chief Greg Meffert, 44, and his wife, Linda Meffert, 42.

St. Pierre entered the not-guilty plea at a Thursday hearing.

The Mefferts, however, did not enter pleas during their initial court appearance Thursday. They are scheduled to return for arraignment on Nov. 24. Their lawyers didn't explain in court why their clients declined to be arraigned Thursday.

Eddie Castaing, a lawyer for St. Pierre, said the delay in the Mefferts' arraignment "meant nothing to us whatsoever."

"We intend to present a very serious defense. You'll see," Castaing said after the hearing.

U.S. Magistrate Louis Moore Jr. allowed all three to remain free on $200,000 personal surety bonds.