Acting United States Attorney Alexander C. Van Hook announced the stiff sentence for Dinah Manuel, 31, of Opelousas, Louisiana, who was sentenced today to five years in federal prison for methamphetamine possession with intent to distribute.
The court heard that Manuel, a key player in a local drug ring, arranged weekly purchases of meth from a co-defendant. Each transaction, involving up to an ounce of the illegal substance, was intended for resale by another individual, who Manuel helped facilitate. In return, she often kept part of the drugs for her personal use.
Manuel pleaded guilty on November 22, 2019, to charges that revealed her role as a facilitator in a drug trafficking organization based out of Ville Platte, Louisiana.
This case is a significant victory for law enforcement. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Southwest Louisiana HIDTA Task Force and Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Forces led the investigation, which began with the Louisiana State Police Narcotics Division. Special Agents and Task Force Officers dismantled not only Manuel’s operation but also the broader drug trafficking network.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert C. Abendroth prosecuted the case, ensuring justice for victims and communities affected by the illegal drug trade.
The sentence handed down today sends a clear message that federal authorities are committed to cracking down on drug trafficking in Louisiana and beyond.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Organized Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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