Duane A. Evans, U.S. Attorney | U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana
Two men from Perry, Florida, Tavariss Davis and Tobey Fitchett, have been indicted on federal drug and gun charges. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. The indictment includes four counts related to violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act and Federal Gun Control Act.
According to the indictment filed on February 14, 2025, Davis allegedly possessed with intent to distribute over 500 grams of a substance containing cocaine and had a Taurus Model GC3 nine-millimeter handgun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on or about August 1, 2024. It is noted that Davis was previously convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment exceeding one year in Florida, which prohibited him from possessing the firearm.
Fitchett also faced similar restrictions due to previous convictions when he allegedly possessed a firearm on or about August 1, 2024.
Davis faces multiple charges: Count 1 for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances could lead to a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years up to life imprisonment along with fines and supervised release. Count 2 for possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking carries potential penalties ranging from five years up to life imprisonment plus fines and supervised release.
Fitchett's charge under Count 3 involves possession of a firearm following felony conviction; if found guilty, he could face up to fifteen years in prison alongside financial penalties and supervised release.
Additionally, Davis is charged under Count 4 for possessing a firearm after felony conviction with similar consequences as Fitchett’s charge.
Both defendants are subject to payment of $100 mandatory special assessment fees per count if convicted.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson emphasized that "the indictment is merely a charging document" requiring proof beyond reasonable doubt for conviction.
This case forms part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aimed at reducing violent crime through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. Homeland Security Investigations along with Louisiana State Police conducted the investigation while Assistant United States Attorney Briana Williams handles prosecution duties within the Narcotics Unit.
