Lake Charles, La. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on October 21, 2026 against Devin Gene Book, 50, a resident of Erath, Louisiana. The indictment accuses Book of kidnapping both a minor and an adult, transporting them across state lines, and of producing and distributing counterfeit United States currency.
Alleged Kidnapping Details
The charging document alleges that on April 16‑17, 2026 Book forcibly took a child and an adult victim from one location and moved them to another state. The indictment does not disclose the identities of the victims or the exact destinations, but it states that the travel crossed state boundaries, triggering federal kidnapping statutes.
Counterfeiting and Forgery Charges
In addition to the kidnapping allegations, Book is charged with multiple counts of counterfeiting and forgery. Prosecutors say he manufactured counterfeit U.S. currency and passed it off at various sites in Louisiana and elsewhere. The indictment lists several instances where the counterfeit bills were allegedly introduced into the circulation stream, though specific amounts are not disclosed.
Federal Response
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana announced the indictment, emphasizing the seriousness of the offenses. “Kidnapping and counterfeiting strike at the heart of public safety and economic integrity,” Keller said in a statement. “We will pursue these crimes vigorously to protect our communities and uphold the rule of law.”
Investigation and Prosecution Team
The investigation was a joint effort among the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Secret Service, and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren L. Nickel and Holly Y. Paillet are handling the prosecution, with legal assistant Christy Angelle providing support.
Potential Penalties
If convicted on all counts, Book faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison, with the possibility of life imprisonment for the most serious charges. The indictment notes that sentencing will follow federal guidelines and consider the gravity of kidnapping and counterfeiting offenses.
Presumption of Innocence
As with any criminal case, Book is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The indictment is an allegation, and the legal process will determine the outcome.
Community Impact
Erath residents expressed concern over the allegations, noting the importance of swift justice to maintain community safety. Local law‑enforcement officials reaffirmed their commitment to working with federal partners to address serious crimes that affect both the safety of individuals and the integrity of the nation’s currency.
Original reporting: KTBS 3 (Shreveport) — read the source article.
