A notorious figure in Bogalusa, Louisiana, has been brought to justice after a long-standing investigation into a violent crime syndicate. Jamar McGowan, a 30-year-old resident of Bogalusa, was sentenced to 235 months imprisonment on July 31, 2024, following a guilty plea to multiple federal charges.
McGowan was found guilty of maintaining a drug-involved premises, conspiring to use firearms in furtherance of a drug conspiracy, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. These charges stemmed from a 2018 investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) into acts of violence and narcotics trafficking in Bogalusa.
According to court documents, McGowan and his associates were members of an organization that conspired to distribute controlled substances. The group also possessed, used, carried, and discharged numerous firearms to further their drug trafficking and other crimes of violence. Their firearm activities were designed to protect their drug turf, retaliate against rival neighborhood drug groups, and maintain and increase their status in the group and in the City of Bogalusa.
The case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence in communities. The program brings together law enforcement and community organizations to foster trust and legitimacy, support prevention efforts, and set strategic enforcement priorities.
McGowan’s sentence marks a significant victory for the PSN program and the communities of Bogalusa. He was also ordered to serve 3 years of supervised release after his release from prison and pay a mandatory $300 special assessment fee.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and investigated by the ATF, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Bogalusa Police Department.
This sentencing serves as a reminder that law enforcement agencies will continue to work tirelessly to bring violent crime syndicates to justice and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone.
Related Federal Cases
- Myron Chevelle Hart, Violent Drug Trafficking, LA 2023 · Washington
- Darrell Lewis, Heroin and Firearms Trafficking, Louisiana 2024 · Louisiana
- Sergio Smith, Drug Trafficking, South Carolina 2024 · Alabama
- Johnny J. Mason, Heroin Trafficking, Louisiana 2023 · Louisiana
- Gary Lynn Ward, Steroid Trafficking, Louisiana 2024 · Louisiana
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Drug Trafficking, Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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