Drunk Driver Leandrew Smith Gets 12 Years for Barksdale Crash

SHREVEPORT, La. – Leandrew Smith, 56, of Bossier City, Louisiana, will spend a substantial portion of his life behind bars after receiving a 12-year federal prison sentence for driving drunk and crashing into security bollards at Barksdale Air Force Base. U.S. Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced the sentencing today, detailing a reckless act that could have had catastrophic consequences.

On May 20, 2017, Smith steered his vehicle directly into the bollards protecting the West Gate of the base. The impact was severe enough to completely destroy the bollards and send Smith’s car airborne before it finally came to a stop. While the crash didn’t directly injure anyone, the incident represented a clear and present danger to national security.

Security Forces Airmen immediately responded, offering Smith medical attention which he refused. It didn’t take long to detect the stench of alcohol. Smith readily admitted to having “had a beer,” but a search of his vehicle revealed a half-full 40-ounce bottle on the floorboard. His physical state quickly deteriorated; he stumbled attempting to exit the vehicle and ultimately passed out during transport to Security Forces headquarters.

A blood alcohol test confirmed the officers’ suspicions: Smith’s BAC registered at a staggering .295 percent – more than three times the legal limit. This wasn’t Smith’s first brush with the law regarding drunk driving. He has three prior convictions for driving while intoxicated within the last decade, including two in 2013 in Caddo Parish Court and another in 2015 in Shreveport City Court. U.S. District Judge S. Maurice Hicks Jr. clearly took Smith’s history into account when handing down the sentence of 12 years, with two years suspended, plus three years of supervised release.

The investigation was a joint effort between the FBI and the 2nd Security Forces Squadron of Barksdale Air Force Base, highlighting the collaborative approach to protecting vital installations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike O’Mara successfully prosecuted the case, securing a conviction and a lengthy prison term for a dangerous repeat offender. This sentencing sends a clear message: driving under the influence, especially near sensitive locations like Barksdale Air Force Base, will not be tolerated.

Smith’s actions weren’t just irresponsible; they were a direct threat. The destruction of the base’s gate security could have allowed unauthorized access, potentially jeopardizing the lives of service members and the security of the installation. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case and report on any further developments.