A New Orleans resident has pleaded guilty to distributing fentanyl, according to an announcement from Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Rickey Smith, 46, entered his plea on September 2, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry.
Authorities reported that in late 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) received information from the New Orleans Police Department about Smith’s drug distribution activities. Investigators determined that Smith distributed more than 40 grams of fentanyl from his apartment in the Eastern District of Louisiana. On three separate occasions—November 4, December 3, and December 17, 2024—Smith sold quantities of fentanyl totaling over 70 grams to an individual he believed was a legitimate buyer.
Smith faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to forty years in prison. He could also be fined up to $5 million and would be subject to at least four years of supervised release after any prison term, as well as a $100 special assessment fee.
The investigation was conducted by the DEA and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman is prosecuting the case for the Narcotics Unit.
"ActingUnited States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that RICKEY SMITH (“SMITH”), age 46, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on September 2, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to distribution of forty grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B)."
