U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced that NEMESSIS BATES, a/k/a “Nemo,” age 37, of Kenner, was sentenced today for his role in the conspiracy and murder-for-hire plot related to the death of Christopher “Tiger” Smith.

After a four-day jury trial beginning on June 4, 2015, a jury found BATES guilty solicitation to commit a crime of violence, use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, causing death through the use of a firearm, and conspiracy to possess firearms.

U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance sentenced BATES to life imprisonment. Additionally, BATES was sentenced to 240 months for solicitation to commit a crime of violence and conspiracy to possess firearms in furtherance of a crime of violence. All sentences are to be served concurrently. Judge Vance also imposed $10,644.10 in restitution.

Co-defendant Aaron Smith previously pled guilty in this matter and is awaiting sentencing. Co-defendant Walter Porter is expected to go to trial in 2016.

U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and detectives of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera and Gregory Kennedy are in charge of the prosecution.