Meth Bust

⏱ 2 min read

Van Vessel, a 50-year-old Houma man, is facing serious time after pleading guilty to possessing over 7 pounds of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The bust went down on May 18, 2025, when Houma police tried to stop Vessel for a traffic violation. He attempted to flee, but crashed his vehicle and was arrested. A search of the wreckage revealed the massive meth haul, packaged in a large vacuum-sealed bag on the passenger floorboard.

Vessel later admitted to knowing the meth was in the vehicle and that he planned to distribute it. His guilty plea was entered on March 18, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk. Now, Vessel is looking at a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison, with a maximum sentence of life behind bars.

The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit, with help from Homeland Security Investigations, the Houma Police Department, and the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office. U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle praised the teamwork that led to Vessel’s guilty plea.

Vessel’s sentencing is set for June 24, 2026. In addition to his prison time, he faces a potential fine of up to $10 million, at least five years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment fee.