Robert Hines, Fentanyl Trafficking, Louisiana 2026

New Orleans, LA - In a shocking turn of events, Robert Hines, a 47-year-old resident of Ponchatoula, Louisiana, has pleaded guilty to violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act. On May 28, 2026, Hines entered a guilty plea to counts 1, 3, and 4 of a superseding indictment before United States District Judge Barry Ashe.

Hines faces a mandatory minimum term of 5 years and up to 40 years imprisonment for counts 1 and 4, with a fine of up to $5,000,000 and at least 4 years of supervised release following imprisonment. For count 3, Hines faces up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and at least 3 years supervised release following imprisonment. Additionally, Hines must pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count.

The charges against Hines stem from his involvement in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 40 grams of fentanyl in the Eastern District of Louisiana. Law enforcement observed Hines meet with his supplier and conducted a traffic stop, recovering 341 grams of fentanyl pills from his car. The pills tested positive for fentanyl.

United States Attorney David I. Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachal Cassagne and Lauren Sarver of the Narcotics Unit.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

Hines' guilty plea marks a significant victory in the ongoing fight against fentanyl trafficking in Louisiana. As our community continues to grapple with the devastating effects of this epidemic, it is clear that the efforts of law enforcement and prosecutors are crucial in bringing those responsible to justice.

The case serves as a reminder that fentanyl trafficking is a serious crime with severe consequences. We urge anyone with information about such activities to come forward and assist law enforcement in their efforts to keep our community safe.

Source: https://www.justice.gov/usao-edla/pr/ponchatoula-man-guilty-violating-federal-controlled-substances-act