United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing of three Shreveport residents involved in a drug trafficking conspiracy that led to a man's death. U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote delivered the sentences.
Martin William Thompson, aged 53, received a 20-year prison term followed by five years of supervised release. Rachel Ann Hassell, 47, and Courtney Renee Cox, 41, each received sentences of 121 months (10 years and one month) with five years of supervised release. Thompson and Cox were also ordered to pay $13,234.73 in restitution to the victim's family.
The trio faced charges from an April 2022 indictment for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl resulting in death and serious injury, possession with intent to distribute heroin, maintaining drug premises, and possession of firearms linked to drug trafficking.
In 2021, agents from the DEA and Caddo Parish Sheriff's Office began investigating fentanyl distribution in Shreveport. A Louisiana State Police trooper stopped a vehicle on Jewella Avenue on July 24, uncovering significant quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl inside. Investigations revealed these drugs were intended for Martin Thompson.
On May 29, officers found an unconscious driver at a car crash site in Greenwood; he died later due to a fentanyl overdose. Further investigation showed Courtney Cox supplied the fentanyl obtained from Thompson to the deceased driver.
Rachel Hassell was arrested in September 2021 for possession with intent to deliver heroin after DEA agents found more heroin at Thompson’s business. Evidence indicated Hassell distributed fentanyl alongside Thompson using his business premises.
Thompson and Cox admitted guilt regarding conspiracy charges involving fentanyl distribution leading to death or serious injury. Hassell pleaded guilty to distributing multiple substances including fentanyl and heroin.
“This is the first distribution of fentanyl resulting in death conviction obtained in the Western District of Louisiana,” stated U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown, emphasizing continued prosecution efforts against illegal drug activities alongside law enforcement partners.
The case was handled by several agencies including the DEA, Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office, ATF, Louisiana State Police, and Shreveport Police Department under Assistant United States Attorney Robert F. Moody's prosecution.
