New Orleans Man Indicted for Evading Child Support
A federal grand jury charged a 49-year-old man for allegedly fleeing the U.S. to avoid $659,000 in owed child support.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Child Care
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A federal grand jury has indicted 49-year-old Jesse Kaptein for fleeing the country to evade court-ordered child support obligations. Kaptein allegedly owes more than $659,000 in support payments originally established by the Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans.
Why it matters
This case highlights the enforcement of legal financial obligations following a court-ordered child support mandate of $5,000 per month. The federal indictment underscores the serious criminal consequences for parents who exit the United States to avoid these duties.
A federal grand jury indictment confirms that more than $659,000 in child support remains unpaid by the defendant. The specific total remains subject to ongoing legal proceedings following the indictment returned on October 16, 2026.
The players
Jesse Kaptein
A 49-year-old individual facing federal charges for allegedly failing to pay child support.
Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans
The local judicial body that originally mandated the child support payments in 2015.
The details
The indictment alleges that Kaptein left the United States in September 2025 to avoid his legal financial obligations. If convicted of fleeing to evade a legal child support obligation, he faces a maximum sentence of two years in federal prison and a fine of up to $100,000. Additionally, the court may impose a period of supervised release for up to one year.
Timeline
April 16, 2011: Jesse Kaptein married H.R.
February 25, 2013: The couple's daughter was born in the United Kingdom.
April 2013: The family moved to New Orleans.
May 19, 2015: The Civil District Court for the Parish of Orleans ordered $5,000 in monthly child support.
September 2025: Jesse Kaptein left the United States.
Health Landscape
This case follows enforcement patterns established by the Deadbeat Parents Punishment Act. It reflects federal efforts to prosecute individuals who cross international borders to evade court-mandated domestic support obligations.
For parents navigating child support orders, keeping formal documentation of all payments is essential for legal protection. Disputes regarding support modifications or financial hardship are best addressed by consulting with an attorney familiar with family law.
The takeaway
Maintaining clear records of financial compliance is a critical step in managing court-ordered family obligations. Individuals involved in custody or support arrangements should consult with a qualified family law attorney to ensure all legal requirements are properly managed.
Further reading
Learn more about local resources for navigating family support systems in the Child Care section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The United States Department of Justice.
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