[Image description: a photo of Brandon Watkins]
In a devastating blow to the streets of Hammond, Louisiana, a local man has been sentenced to 13.5 years behind bars for his involvement in cocaine distribution and possession of a stolen firearm. BRANDON WATKINS, a 31-year-old resident of Hammond, was handed down the sentence by U.S. District Judge Kurt D. Engelhardt after having previously pled guilty to the charges.
According to court documents, Watkins sold quantities of cocaine and four stolen firearms to an undercover law enforcement agent in September and October 2012. He was also found to have sold oxycodone pills to the same agent on July 17, 2013. The severity of the sentence is compounded by Watkins’ prior conviction for unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling in Tangipahoa Parish, which prohibited him from possessing a firearm under both state and federal law.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Hammond Police Department, and the ATF New Orleans Division Office were praised by U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite for their efforts in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nolan D. Paige was in charge of the prosecution. The investigation revealed that Watkins’ actions had a significant impact on the community, and his sentence serves as a warning to those who would engage in similar activities.
Watkins’ sentence includes 162 months of incarceration, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. This harsh punishment is a testament to the determination of law enforcement agencies to keep our streets safe from the scourge of crime. As the people of Hammond breathe a sigh of relief, they must remain vigilant, knowing that there are those who would seek to undermine their safety and security.
The Grimy Times will continue to monitor this case and provide updates as necessary. In the meantime, the people of Hammond can rest assured that justice has been served, and their community is a safer place thanks to the tireless efforts of law enforcement.
This article will be updated as more information becomes available.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Weapons
- Source: DOJ Press Release ↗
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