A man named David Butler has shared his troubling experience involving Danette Colbert, the woman accused of defrauding him after the death of Super Bowl reporter Adan Manzano. Butler, 52, recounted to NBC News how an evening in New Orleans’ French Quarter took a dark turn after he and Colbert had a few drinks together. He began to feel dizzy and disoriented.
Butler described the moments leading up to his memory loss, saying, “She ushered me into some kind of black Suburban that was right there, and that’s the last thing I remember from that night.” When he regained consciousness, he discovered that both his phone and wallet were missing.
The aftermath of the incident was devastating for Butler. He reported that his credit cards had racked up thousands of dollars in charges, and over $80,000 from his cryptocurrency account had vanished. “The ordeal devastated my life,” he shared.
In October 2024, Colbert was convicted of computer fraud, theft, and the illegal transmission of monetary funds related to Butler’s case. The judge decided to suspend a lengthy prison sentence, requiring her instead to pay restitution and serve five years on probation.
Meanwhile, the Kenner Police Department is also investigating the circumstances surrounding Manzano’s death. The reporter, who was with Telemundo Kansas City, was found dead in a hotel room on February 5. Security footage showed him and Colbert together in the French Quarter and at his hotel prior to his untimely passing.
As the investigation into Manzano’s death continues, authorities are still awaiting toxicology results, which may take several weeks. They are working closely with the Louisiana State Police and the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office to gather more information.
Colbert allegedly used Manzano’s credit cards after his death. She was arrested and charged with fraud and other financial crimes, although it’s currently unclear if she has a lawyer representing her.
During a press conference, Police Chief Conley revealed that when Manzano’s body was discovered, both his credit card and phone were missing. Upon searching Colbert’s home, police reportedly found possessions belonging to Manzano. The police noted that Colbert was a familiar face in the French Quarter and had a history of similar fraud schemes.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of Manzano’s death. He was in Louisiana to cover the Super Bowl and was a dedicated father to a young daughter. His employer, Telemundo Kansas City, expressed profound sadness over his passing, remembering him as a talented professional who made significant contributions to the community.
