New Orleans, LA – Ryan Johnson, 22, has been found guilty of a litany of serious offenses, including conspiracy to possess firearms for drug trafficking and possession with intent to distribute tapentadol, tramadol, and marijuana. The sentence from the U.S. District Court Judge Sarah S. Vance could see Johnson spend up to life in prison.
Johnson’s criminal activities were first uncovered when he was arrested on September 1, 2023, driving a stolen car with a firearm hidden under his seat. Despite his arrest and subsequent release on bond, he continued to traffic drugs, leading to another search warrant at his residence in March 2024. Authorities recovered firearms, drugs, and burglary tools.
Johnson’s conviction for possession of controlled substances carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, and supervised release for at least three years. The conspiracy charge, related to the use of firearms, could see him face another 20-year sentence, with fines reaching $250,000 and up to three years of supervised release. Additionally, his conviction for using a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking comes with a mandatory minimum five-year term, which must be served consecutively to any other sentences.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), an initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence. The strategy focuses on fostering community trust, supporting organizations that prevent violence, setting enforcement priorities, and measuring results.
The investigation into Johnson’s crimes was a collaborative effort between the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman is handling the prosecution.
Johnson’s conviction serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle against drug trafficking and firearms violations in the city of New Orleans.
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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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