JERAD M. BARRETT, Marijuana Trafficking, Louisiana 2025

A massive marijuana trafficking operation in New Orleans has been dismantled, with a local resident receiving a significant prison sentence for his involvement.

JERAD M. BARRETT, 41, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on February 26, 2025, to 135 months imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $400 mandatory special assessment fee.

BARRETT pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, fifty kilograms or more of marijuana, possession with intent to distribute, fifty kilograms or more of marijuana, and maintaining a drug-involved premises.

According to court documents, BARRETT, with the assistance of his mother, maintained his residence to cultivate and distribute kilogram quantities of marijuana. Agents also uncovered communications between BARRETT and his mother related to distribution, packaging, and relocation of narcotics within the Eastern District of Louisiana.

During the investigation, agents recovered approximately 940 kilograms of marijuana stored in plastic bins and barrels from within BARRETT's residence and multiple storage units associated with BARRETT.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana State Police, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office, and the Orleans Parish Sheriff's Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

BARRETT's sentencing is a significant blow to the local marijuana trafficking scene, and serves as a reminder of the consequences of engaging in such activity.

The case highlights the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in the region to combat drug trafficking and bring those responsible to justice.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edla/pr/man-sentenced-violations-federal-controlled-substances-act