New ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – The grimy streets of New Orleans have once again been witness to the heavy hand of justice. Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on August 21, 2025, Lawrence Watkins, a 26-year-old local, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
According to court documents, the Louisiana State Police (LSP) Troopers and FBI New Orleans Gang Task Force (NOGTF) were on high alert during proactive patrols in Algiers area. Their efforts led to a dramatic chase when a suspicious Dodge Durango vehicle fled from law enforcement. The pursuit ended with the Durango crashing into a utility pole, and its occupants, including Watkins, attempting to flee the scene.
Watkins was later apprehended, and officers discovered a Century Arms Micro Draco 7.62×39 pistol, ammunition, cash, drug paraphernalia, and large quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana in his backpack.
The defendant now faces up to twenty years in prison for the drug trafficking charges, along with a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for the firearm offense. The sentencing is scheduled for November 20, 2025.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative designed to reduce violent crime and gun violence. Project Safe Neighborhoods has been a cornerstone in the fight against criminal activity, fostering trust and legitimacy within communities while supporting community-based organizations in preventing violence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI New Orleans Gang Task Force and the Louisiana State Police, with Special Assistant United States Attorney James Ollinger and Assistant United States Attorney Mike Trummel of the Violent Crimes Unit leading the prosecution.
Related Federal Cases
- Darion Tinson Sentenced in New Orleans Heroin, Gun Case · Louisiana
- New Orleans’ Homer Gross, 32, Sentenced in Heroin, Gun Case · Louisiana
- New Orleans Couple Accused of Lying to Gun Dealer · Louisiana
- Hill Gets 15 Years for Meth & Stolen Gun · Georgia
- Marrero Kingpin Austin Gets 25 Years for Cocaine & Gun Trafficking · Louisiana
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
🔒 Get the grimiest stories delivered weekly. Subscribe free →
Browse More
