A significant shift has occurred within the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality (LDEQ), as Theresa Delafosse, the agency’s top financial officer, has recently transferred out. This move marks another high-profile exit under Secretary Aurelia Giacometto’s leadership. Delafosse, a licensed attorney and certified public accountant, served as the highest-ranking fiscal employee at LDEQ. Her departure follows other notable resignations and transfers, raising questions about morale and leadership dynamics within the department.

Delafosse held a pivotal role in the Financial Services Division for nine years, becoming the sole remaining executive in the Office of Management and Finance. Prior to her time at LDEQ, she worked for the state Department of Revenue and the Legislative Auditor’s Office. The reasons behind her transfer remain undisclosed, although her exit coincides with growing concerns over workplace culture highlighted by recent surveys and critical letters from former staff members.

In recent months, several senior figures have left the agency. Former Undersecretary Christian Griffiths also exited last September after just a few months in his position. Meanwhile, long-time ombudsman Roger Ward submitted a harsh critique of Giacometto’s behavior before resigning abruptly. His letter echoed earlier complaints made by Chandra Pidgeon, an ex-undersecretary who accused Giacometto of mistreating employees.

The mounting dissatisfaction among employees stems partly from allegations that they feel pressured into violating laws or policies. These claims emerged following a survey conducted by the Legislative Auditor, which revealed widespread low morale under Giacometto’s direction. Such revelations paint a troubling picture of internal strife at one of Louisiana’s key regulatory bodies.

Despite repeated attempts, neither Delafosse nor LDEQ’s communications team provided comment regarding these developments. The departures underscore broader challenges facing the agency, where numerous executives and key personnel have chosen to leave since Giacometto assumed leadership.

As the roster of departed officials grows, attention turns toward whether incoming talent can stabilize operations and restore confidence in the organization. With many experienced professionals leaving, it remains uncertain how effectively the LDEQ will address its mission while navigating leadership turmoil.