New Orleans, LOUISIANA – In a dramatic turn of events, Ryan Johnson, 22, has been found guilty on multiple counts including drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The conviction stems from an extensive investigation that uncovered a major drug ring operating in the Crescent City.
Johnson pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance on August 13, 2025. He was charged with conspiracy to possess firearms for drug trafficking purposes, possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, tramadol, and marijuana, as well as possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
The charges against Johnson were based on his arrest on September 1, 2023, where he was caught driving a stolen car loaded with firearms and illegal substances. Despite being released on bond, Johnson continued to sell drugs. In March 2024, authorities executed a search warrant at his residence, leading to the seizure of additional firearms, drugs, and burglary tools.
Johnson’s conviction for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances carries up to 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine, and three years of supervised release. His firearms conspiracy conviction adds another 20 years, a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. The charge for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime mandates at least five years in prison, which must be served consecutively to any other sentence.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a comprehensive strategy aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence across the United States. Investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department, it was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman.
Johnson’s sentence will be determined at a later date, but his conviction sends a clear message that law enforcement is committed to dismantling drug rings and making communities safer.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Fraud & Financial Crimes|Violent Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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