A Louisiana prosecutor who specializes in sexual assault cases was found dead in his office after an apparent suicide.
Orleans Parish Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting, 34, was found with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound Saturday around 9 p.m., reported WVUE.
New Orleans paramedics arrived on scene at the district attorney’s office building at 619 South White St., where Kersting was pronounced dead.
“The family of the district attorney in Orleans Parish suffered a terrible tragedy Saturday evening,” the district attorney’s office said.
“Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting was a beloved member of our office, and we send our love and deepest condolences to his family.
“It is important that we support each other now, and we ask the media to respect the privacy of those affected.”
Kersting was assigned to the Sexual Assault Kit Initiative Unit, which is responsible for prosecuting cases by submitting and testing previously unsubmitted sexual assault kits.
The New Orleans district attorney’s office commended Kersting for his efforts in a March 22 social media post.
Orleans Parish Assistant District Attorney Ian Kersting (pictured), 34, was found Saturday with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound
New Orleans paramedics arrived on scene at the district attorney’s office building at 619 South White St., where Kersting was pronounced dead
The New Orleans District Attorney’s Office gave Kersting (right) a shoutout for his efforts in a March 22 social media post
‘In a recent victory for justice, the joint efforts of ADA Michelle Jones (SVU) and Ian Kersting (SAKI), along with investigator Ronnie Puigh (SVU), project manager Sydney Houlemard (SVU) and process assistant Daphne Carroll (SVU), led to an important verdict,” the post said.
“The case involved allegations of rape in the first degree and indecent conduct with a minor under the age of 13.
‘After deliberation, the jury returned its verdict: guilty of attempted rape in the first degree and guilty of the indecent conduct charge. The successful outcome highlights our team’s dedication and skill in pursuing justice for the most vulnerable members of our community.”
Records show Kersting was admitted to the Louisiana State Bar on October 30, 2020.
For help and support, call the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline on 988