Laurel Man Sentenced to 70 Months for Meth Distribution

A Laurel man, Danny Ray Cole, 46, of Laurel, MS, has been sentenced to 70 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine.

Cole was caught distributing pills to a buyer that contained 12.46 grams of a substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, according to court records. The investigation revealed that Cole had additional amounts of drugs in his possession.

Cole was indicted by a federal grand jury on June 6, 2023, and pled guilty on December 12, 2023, to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Jones County Sheriff’s Department, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Allen prosecuting the case.

U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi and Acting Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans made the announcement.

“The defendant’s actions put the community at risk, and it’s only fitting that he’s facing consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee. “We’re committed to keeping our communities safe and holding accountable those who engage in illegal activities.”

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by bringing together law enforcement and community organizations. The program focuses on fostering trust and legitimacy in communities, supporting community-based organizations, and setting strategic enforcement priorities.

With the sentencing of Cole, the community can feel a sense of relief knowing that justice has been served. This is a clear example of the department’s commitment to keeping our neighborhoods safe and reducing violent crime.

The sentence was handed down by U.S. District Judge Daniel P. Jordan III, who emphasized the need for accountability in such cases. Cole’s prison sentence is a reminder that those who engage in the illicit drug trade will face consequences.

As a community, we must continue to work together to prevent violence and keep our neighborhoods safe. The sentencing of Danny Ray Cole is a step in the right direction, and we will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served.