Alvarez Joseph Cyprian, Fentanyl Trafficking, Louisiana 2023

NEW ORLEANS – In a shocking turn of events, Alvarez Joseph Cyprian, age 23, along with Larry James and Alskiin Millican, both of St. Tammany Parish, were indicted on December 8, 2023, for their alleged involvement in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy. The indictment was unsealed following the arrest of the trio.

According to the indictment, Cyprian, James, and Millican were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a mixture or substance containing fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. The indictment also alleges that James was involved in distributing fentanyl and was in possession of a stolen firearm, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(j).

Cyprian faces a maximum sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release, if convicted of the conspiracy charge. Additionally, if James is convicted of being in possession of a stolen firearm, he faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to 3 years of supervised release.

The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence. The investigation is being conducted by Homeland Security Investigations and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Department, with Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne in charge of the prosecution.

The indictment is a mere allegation, and the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Cyprian and James face up to 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least 4 years of supervised release, respectively. Millican also faces up to 5 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, and at least 4 years of supervised release, if convicted of the conspiracy charge.

The case is a stark reminder of the ongoing issue of fentanyl trafficking in our communities. It is essential that we continue to work together to combat this menace and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.

The investigation is ongoing, and further details will be released as more information becomes available. In the meantime, the public is urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities.

For more information, contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office at [insert contact information].

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