Jury convicts two in racketeering scheme linked to Super Bowl reporter's death

Key points

• Jury deliberated for five hours before returning a mixed verdict on September 17.
• Colbert faces up to 50 years for racketeering and up to 10 years for negligent homicide.
• White faces up to 50 years for racketeering but was cleared of manslaughter charges.
• Prosecutors presented evidence of a multi-year criminal enterprise targeting multiple victims.
• Manzano’s belongings, including his debit card and hotel key, were found at Colbert’s home.

Background

Adan Manzano, a 27-year-old Telemundo reporter from Kansas City, was in New Orleans to cover Super Bowl LIX in February 2025. He was found dead in his Kenner hotel room on February 5. An autopsy determined his death resulted from positional asphyxia combined with high levels of alcohol and alprazolam, a Xanax-like drug. This case follows earlier coverage of the trial, which highlighted the complex legal arguments surrounding the defendants' relationship and the nature of the alleged crimes.

How outlets are covering it

WOAI and WDSU reported the verdicts but provided limited detail on the trial's specifics. Fox8Live offered a comprehensive account, detailing the prosecution's argument that Colbert and White operated a criminal enterprise that drugged and robbed multiple victims over several years. Fox8Live also highlighted the defense's counter-argument that the relationship between Colbert and White was not a criminal enterprise but rather a personal one, with White described as a pimp and Colbert as a prostitute. The defense also argued that there was no evidence of any substance being administered to Manzano, while prosecutors emphasized the presence of Xanax and Manzano's belongings at Colbert's home. All sources agreed on the verdicts and the sentencing date, but Fox8Live provided the most detailed analysis of the trial's arguments and evidence.

Why it matters

The verdict highlights the legal complexities of cases involving drug-facilitated robbery and the challenges in proving intent and causation in such cases. It also underscores the importance of thorough investigation and evidence presentation in criminal trials, particularly when multiple defendants and charges are involved. The case may have implications for how similar cases are prosecuted and defended in the future.

What to watch

Sentencing for Colbert and White is scheduled for September 28. Colbert's defense attorney has indicated plans to appeal the conviction. The case may also lead to further legal proceedings or appeals, depending on the outcome of the sentencing and any subsequent legal challenges.