NEW ORLEANS, Feb. 8 (UPI) -- One of two New Orleans police officers under investigation for alleged insurance fraud apparently has killed himself, officials said.
The FBI is investigating the two New Orleans officers, along with a former Jefferson County, La., sheriff's deputy, in the alleged scheme, The (New Orleans) Times Picayune reported.
One of the city officers, Salvadore Battaglia, apparently shot himself at his St. Tammany Parish home in his bedroom Tuesday night, the newspaper said.
The FBI investigation began about a week ago and focused on New Orleans Sgt. Kevin Guillot, his attorney Eric Hessler said. Investigators said they believe Guillot filed for reimbursement on a vehicle stolen in Jefferson Parish, but later recovered the vehicle in New Orleans.
The FBI declined to comment on the investigation and no one has been charged, the newspaper said.
Battaglia's attorney, Bruce Whittaker, said Battaglia was trying to help a friend, and played a minor role in the alleged scheme. The lawyer said Battaglia has been cooperating with investigators from the beginning of the investigation.
