New Orleans, Louisiana – In a fierce crackdown on drug trafficking and gun violence, Datanya Howard, 22, of New Orleans, has been sentenced to 122 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. The sentence, handed down on June 5, 2024, by U.S. District Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle, also includes a $400 mandatory special assessment fee.
Howard pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The charges stem from an incident on January 19, 2022, when law enforcement arrested Howard at the Oakwood Shopping Center in Gretna, Louisiana, in possession of fentanyl, marijuana, drug trafficking supplies, and two loaded handguns.
Further investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at Howard’s residence in New Orleans on June 8, 2023. Authorities uncovered over 700 tapentadol pills, marijuana, drug trafficking supplies, three handguns, and additional ammunition.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive program aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence across all levels of law enforcement. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN strategy on May 26, 2021, emphasizing fostering trust in communities, supporting prevention organizations, strategic law enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
Investigation into Howard’s case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is leading the prosecution.
Howard’s sentence sends a stark message about the consequences of drug trafficking and gun violence in our neighborhoods, showcasing the commitment of federal and local law enforcement to keep our communities safe.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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