Charges dismissed against man accused in 2016 New Orleans cold case
NEW ORLEANS (WGNO) — The Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office has announced it is dismissing charges against a man accused in a 2016 murder cold case.
In May 2016, Tulane graduate Thomas Rolfes was visiting New Orleans when he was robbed and fatally shot.
Additional teens arrested in connection with fatal shooting of 16-year-old in Bogalusa
As WGNO’s Peyton LoCicero Trist reported in 2021, investigators worked on the case for years until it went cold.
On Dec. 16, 2021, Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams announced the arrest and indictment of Ernest Weatherspoon.
Weatherspoon was indicted on charges of second-degree murder and armed robbery.
On April 16, the district attorney’s office announced it is dismissing the charges brought against Weatherspoon.
New Orleans shooting that killed 1, injured 11 renews calls for changes to new concealed carry law
In a statement, district attorney’s office officials said the decision came following extensive analysis of evidence and the availability of a critical witness.
“This decision follows extensive communication and coordination with the victim’s family.
Our office dedicated significant time and energy, pouring over all the files and evidence available in this cold case that predated our administration. That extensive work led to a Grand Jury indictment of Weatherspoon.
As we progressed closer to trial, serious issues with a critical witness’s availability arose which threatened the viability of the prosecution. Both we and the family recognized the significance of those challenges, and agreed dismissal was the best course of action at this time.
Throughout this ordeal, our office has remained engaged with the family, and we will continue to do so. We are not done. We are committed to exhausting all avenues to ensure justice for Mr. Rolfes and this family, who have endured a tremendous loss.”
Orleans Parish District Attorney’s Office
Stay up to date with the latest news, weather and sports by downloading the WGNO app on the Apple or Google Play stores and by subscribing to the WGNO newsletter.
Latest Posts
Louisiana gets $290 million T-Mobile network upgrade. See where service is expanded
Furious House conservatives rail at Johnson but haven’t altered his Ukraine plan
Hush money judge cracks down on media over juror fears of being exposed
Scam alert: Orleans Parish DA investigating fake jury summons
Washington Post editorial board endorses Alsobrooks in Maryland Senate primary
For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGNO.
