Brandon Turner, a 39-year-old resident of New Orleans, has pled guilty to multiple federal drug and gun charges. Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson confirmed that on May 27, 2025, Turner admitted guilt to three counts in the indictment against him.
The charges include possession with intent to distribute controlled substances under Title 21, U.S. Code Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C). Additionally, Turner was charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime under Title 18, U.S. Code Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i), and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition as per Title 18, U.S. Code Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
Court documents reveal that Turner was arrested on January 30, 2024, for suspected narcotics trafficking. A search of his apartment led law enforcement officers to find fentanyl along with ammunition and a Glock Model 43 pistol. Despite being aware of his status as a convicted felon, Turner possessed the firearm and ammunition illegally.
Turner faces severe penalties at sentencing: Count One carries a minimum five-year prison term up to forty years' imprisonment with potential fines up to $5 million; Count Two involves a minimum five-year sentence potentially extending to life imprisonment with fines up to $250,000; Count Three could result in up to fifteen years' imprisonment with similar fines. Each count also includes supervised release terms and mandatory special assessment fees.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities. The program focuses on building trust within communities while prioritizing strategic enforcement measures.
Simpson commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation alongside the New Orleans Police Department and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office for their roles in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell from the Violent Crime Unit is prosecuting the case.
