Two men from New Orleans pleaded guilty to multiple drug and gun offenses, according to a recent announcement by Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Henry Mitchell, 25, and Jaylan Washington, 29, admitted to charges before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry on April 1, 2025. Both face various drug and firearm-related charges, which were detailed in a previously returned indictment.
The charges include conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute marijuana, fentanyl, tapentadol, and tramadol, violating a United States code. This charge carries potential penalties of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and three years of supervised release. Mitchell faces additional charges related to possession with intent to distribute these substances, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a machine gun. Washington also faces similar charges, including felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a machine gun, each carrying penalties ranging from 10 to 15 years of imprisonment and fines up to $250,000.
Court documents noted that Mitchell and Washington were engaged in selling controlled substances in New Orleans' Seventh Police District. Their activities were observed by FBI Task Officers following reports from local citizens. The New Orleans Police Department officers arrested the two and found drugs and firearms in their vehicles. Additionally, "Glock switches," devices that convert semiautomatic weapons into fully automatic ones, were recovered. Both men have previous felony convictions.
Sentencing is scheduled for July 8, 2025, at 10:00 am. Mitchell and Washington will remain detained without bond.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by collaborating across levels of law enforcement and the community. The FBI Violent Crime Task Force and the New Orleans Police Department conducted the investigation, while Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller is handling the prosecution.
