Former 911 director in NOLA sentenced to a year in prison

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A judge has sentenced Tyrell Morris, New Orleans' former 911 head, to one year in prison after he was convicted last week on multiple charges, including malfeasance in office, insurance fraud, injuring public records, and impersonating a peace officer.

Morris appeared in court for his sentencing hearing Wednesday in an orange jumpsuit and shackles. As the hearing got underway, the prosecution asked to play recordings of Morris' jail phone calls, in which he's heard calling the judge an expletive. Assistant District Attorney Corey Tassin said the calls demonstrate that Morris "does not in fact have any remorse or respect for this court."

The calls were played in open court before Judge Simone Levine handed down her sentence. Morris broke down in tears and apologized as he learned his fate, and appealed for no jail time.

"Mr. Morris, you think you are exceptional. You are not exceptional," Levine said.

Morris has been in custody since he was convicted last week on multiple charges, including malfeasance in office, insurance fraud, injuring public records, and impersonating a peace officer.

According to prosecutors, Morris had attempted to cover up his involvement in a 2023 crash involving a city-owned vehicle. He reportedly changed city policy, lied to police, and falsely presented himself as a peace officer to avoid consequences.

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