NEW ORLEANS, LA – Damion Wilson, 23, of New Orleans, is headed to federal prison for a combined 87 months after being convicted on multiple federal charges related to drug trafficking and illegal firearms. The sentencing, handed down on October 18, 2023, reflects the escalating crackdown on violent crime in the city, according to federal authorities.
Wilson was found guilty on June 27th of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, maintaining a drug-involved premises, and lying to a federal agent. While acquitted on two other related counts, the jury clearly saw enough evidence to convict on the core charges. The case, investigated by a multi-agency task force, paints a picture of a young man deeply involved in the illicit drug trade.
The stiffest sentence – 60 months – stemmed from the charge of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). This sentence is to be served consecutively with the other sentences imposed, effectively ensuring Wilson will spend over seven years behind bars. He received 27 months for possession with intent to distribute marijuana, a violation of United States Code Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(D), and another 27 months for maintaining a drug-involved premises, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 856. A final 27-month sentence was tacked on for lying to a federal agent, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1001.
In addition to the prison time, Wilson faces a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count of conviction. Federal prosecutors, Assistant United States Attorneys Troy Bell and Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr., successfully argued for the consecutive sentences, highlighting the seriousness of the offenses and the danger posed by Wilson’s actions. The prosecution emphasized the connection between illegal drug activity and gun violence, a pervasive problem in New Orleans.
The investigation was a collaborative effort between the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Marshal’s Service, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This case falls under the umbrella of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a Department of Justice program designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence by fostering trust between law enforcement and communities.
The Department of Justice launched a renewed focus on PSN in 2021, emphasizing community-based prevention and strategic enforcement. While the program has faced criticism over the years, officials maintain it remains a vital tool in the fight against crime. Wilson’s case serves as a stark reminder that those involved in illegal drug trafficking and firearms violations will face serious consequences under federal law.
Related Federal Cases
- Michael John Pereira, Possession of a Firearm in a Drug Trafficking… · Louisiana
- Laquentin Brown, Sex Trafficking Conspiracy, New Orleans LA, 2023 · Illinois
- Juan Francisco Saenz-Tamez, Texas Drug Trafficking, Beaumont TX, 2023 · Louisiana
- Myron Chevelle Hart, Violent Drug Trafficking, LA 2023 · Washington
- Austin, Cocaine and Gun Trafficking, Marrero LA, 2023 · Louisiana
Key Facts
- Agency: ATF
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Weapons|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Press Release
Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free
Browse More
