A New Orleans resident, Sheldon Smith Sr., aged 59, has been indicted on federal drug and gun charges. The announcement was made by Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson following the unsealing of a three-count indictment on March 13, 2025.
The indictment alleges that on December 17, 2024, Smith possessed fentanyl and oxycodone with the intent to distribute. He is also accused of possessing two firearms—a Glock Model 19 nine-millimeter handgun and a Taurus Model G2C .40 caliber handgun—in connection with drug trafficking activities. Smith's previous conviction for a crime punishable by over one year in prison prohibits him from firearm possession.
Smith faces multiple charges: Count 1 involves possession with intent to distribute controlled substances under Title 21 U.S.C. Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). If convicted, he could face up to 30 years in prison, a $2 million fine, and six years of supervised release.
Count 2 pertains to firearm possession in furtherance of drug trafficking under Title 18 U.S.C. Section 924(c)(1)(A). Conviction could result in five years to life imprisonment consecutive to other sentences, a $250,000 fine, and five years of supervised release.
Count 3 charges Smith with illegal firearm possession due to his felony status. This includes several weapons such as Glock handguns and various rifles. A conviction could lead to up to 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release.
Additionally, Smith may be required to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count if convicted.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson emphasized that an indictment is merely an accusation requiring proof beyond reasonable doubt for conviction.
The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation while Assistant United States Attorney Briana Williams handles prosecution within the Narcotics Unit.
This case falls under Operation Take Back America—a national initiative aimed at combating illegal immigration and dismantling cartels along with transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) through coordinated efforts by the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
