A troubling case has emerged in Kenner, Louisiana, where two individuals have been charged in connection with the death of sports reporter Adon Manzano, who was found deceased in his hotel room on February 5, 2023. The primary suspect, Danette Colbert, known as the “Bourbon Street Hustler,” was initially arrested for property crimes after being found with Manzano’s cell phone and credit cards. Following further investigation and toxicology reports, she now faces second-degree murder charges. Her alleged accomplice, Ricky White, remains incarcerated on various property crime charges, although he has not been charged with murder.
Police reports indicate that Colbert, 30, has a history of targeting men by providing them with drugs, specifically alcohol and alprazolam, a potent sedative commonly known as Xanax. According to investigators, text messages between Colbert and White reveal a disturbing pattern of behavior, with references to a “knockout” scheme intended to incapacitate victims for robbery. On the day of Manzano’s death, there were approximately 30 exchanges between the two, further indicating their collaboration in the alleged crime.
Colbert’s intent, according to police, was not to kill Manzano but rather to render him unconscious for the purpose of theft. However, toxicology reports revealed that the victim’s blood alcohol level was nearly three times the legal limit, coupled with a significant amount of Xanax, leading to a combined effect that ultimately resulted in his untimely death. Medical examiners noted that Manzano was discovered face down with evidence of positional asphyxia, prompting authorities to classify the manner of death as undetermined at this time.
The investigation highlighted the nature of Colbert and White’s relationship, described in court as akin to a “prostitute/pimp” dynamic. This characterization has raised questions about the extent of White’s involvement, even though he did not physically meet Manzano. His defense attorney contends that the lack of direct interaction could absolve him of more serious charges. Nevertheless, the prosecution argues that White’s communication with Colbert and his role in the robbery scheme render him complicit.
Legal experts suggest that the prosecution faces challenges in proving intent, particularly regarding White’s potential liability. Under Louisiana law, accomplice liability may hold individuals accountable for actions that lead to another’s death, even if those individuals did not engage directly with the victim. This legal nuance could lead to further developments in White’s case as prosecutors build their arguments.
The relationship between Colbert and White, and the alleged planning behind the robbery, has drawn significant attention. Observers note that Manzano, who was in New Orleans for work covering the Super Bowl, may have been perceived as an ideal target due to his vulnerability as a solo traveler. The tragic circumstances are compounded by the fact that Manzano was a father who had recently lost his wife, leaving his child without both parents.
As the investigation continues, both Colbert and White remain in the Jefferson Parish Correctional Center without bond. The case serves as a stark reminder of the potential dangers that can arise in seemingly innocuous situations and raises broader concerns about safety for those in the media and other professions who may find themselves in vulnerable positions. The legal proceedings are expected to further unfold as the prosecution and defense prepare their respective cases in the coming months.