U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. | U.S. Department of Justice
A federal grand jury has indicted Ecknozzio C. Jackson, Jr., 33, from Baton Rouge, Louisiana, on charges related to the distribution of heroin and fentanyl. The indictment alleges that these substances led to death and serious bodily injury. On January 2, 2025, Jackson appeared for arraignment and entered a plea of not guilty.
Court documents state that on December 16, 2019, Jackson distributed heroin resulting in serious bodily injury after ingestion by an individual. The following day, he allegedly distributed heroin and fentanyl leading to death and serious injury.
Each count in the indictment carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of 20 years and could extend to life imprisonment.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office are conducting the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Paul L. Pugliese is handling the prosecution.
It is important to note that an indictment is merely an accusation by a grand jury. The defendant remains presumed innocent unless proven guilty at trial or through a guilty plea.
