NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – Shane Bolden, 35, of New Orleans, is facing serious federal charges after being indicted on May 23, 2024, for allegedly running a marijuana operation and illegally possessing firearms. The indictment, unsealed today, paints a picture of a man deeply involved in the city’s underworld, and now facing a potential lengthy prison sentence.
According to the indictment, BOLDEN is charged in Count 1 with conspiracy to distribute marijuana, a violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(D), and 846. He’s also hit with Count 2, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, violating Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D). But the feds aren’t stopping at drugs. Count 3 accuses BOLDEN of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). And finally, Count 4 alleges he’s a felon in possession of a firearm, breaching Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8).
The government isn’t just seeking jail time; they’re coming for BOLDEN’s assets. The indictment includes a notice of forfeiture, demanding he forfeit over $100,000 in cash and a cache of nine firearms. This isn’t a slap on the wrist – it’s a full-scale financial and legal assault. If convicted on all counts, BOLDEN could be looking at decades behind bars. Specifically, Counts 1 and 2 carry a maximum of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine each. Count 3, the firearm charge linked to drug trafficking, carries a mandatory minimum of five years, potentially escalating to life, and another $250,000 fine. Count 4, the felon in possession charge, adds another 15 years, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment fee per count.
Court documents state that, on or about April 8, 2024, BOLDEN allegedly conspired with others to possess marijuana with intent to distribute it. Crucially, the indictment highlights that BOLDEN was already prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction in Louisiana. This isn’t a first-time offense; it’s a repeat performance of criminal behavior, and the feds are making sure he pays the price. The investigation revealed BOLDEN allegedly used these firearms to protect his illicit drug operation.
U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans was quick to clarify that the indictment is just the first step. “The indictment is merely a charge, and the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt,” Evans stated. This case is being prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a federal initiative aimed at reducing violent crime and gun violence by fostering trust between law enforcement and communities. The Department of Justice launched a strengthened PSN strategy in 2021, focusing on community engagement, strategic enforcement, and measurable results.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department jointly investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is leading the prosecution. This is a clear message from federal authorities: engaging in drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession in New Orleans will be met with swift and decisive action. The Grimy Times will continue to follow this case as it develops, bringing you the unvarnished truth from the streets and the courtrooms.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime|Weapons|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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