The Kenner Police Department in Louisiana has released new surveillance footage that may provide key insights into the mysterious death of sports reporter Adan Manzano. The video shows 48-year-old Danette Colbert entering a hotel room with Manzano, only to leave alone hours later. Manzano was later found dead in the same room, raising serious questions about the circumstances surrounding his passing.
Danette Colbert has a well-documented history of crimes targeting tourists, including drugging victims and stealing their belongings. Former victim David Butler expressed frustration over the justice system’s failure to impose stricter penalties on Colbert, suggesting that Manzano’s death could have been prevented if she had faced harsher consequences.
A suspect with a criminal past
“The minimal fines and lack of meaningful incarceration for crimes that could have led to serious injury or loss of life are, quite frankly, an insult to public safety and the justice system,” Butler stated in a message to the judge in his case. He believes that had the court taken decisive action, Manzano might still be alive today.
Investigation intensifies
Kenner Police Chief Keith Conley confirmed that three phones were found in Colbert’s possession during her arrest, including one belonging to Manzano. Authorities believe she used Manzano’s credit card at multiple stores in the New Orleans area following his death.
The investigation has now expanded, with the Kenner Police Department working alongside the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, Louisiana State Police, the New Orleans Police Department, and Project NOLA. The latter is utilizing advanced surveillance technology, including facial recognition and vehicle tracking, to piece together Colbert’s movements in the 30 days leading up to the incident.
“We often use these methods to help detectives close cases,” said Bryan Legarde of Project NOLA.
While authorities continue their investigation, the full autopsy and toxicology results for Manzano remain pending. Colbert has already been charged with multiple offenses, including bank fraud, computer fraud, illegal transmission of monetary funds, access device fraud, and purse snatching. Police have not ruled out additional charges as new evidence emerges.
As the case unfolds, many are left wondering whether the justice system failed to stop a repeat offender before it was too late.
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