New Orleans Man Sentenced for Fentanyl Trafficking
A 60-year-old New Orleans man has been sentenced for his involvement in fentanyl trafficking and oxycodone possession. Sheldon Smith Sr. was sentenced to 18 months for the first count and 60 months for the second count, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, on or about December 17, 2024, Smith possessed with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of oxycodone.
It is further alleged that Smith possessed two firearms, a Glock Model 19, nine-millimeter handgun and a Taurus Model G2C, .40 caliber handgun, in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Briana Williams of the Narcotics Unit.
Smith’s sentence was handed down by United States District Judge Jay Zainey on July 28, 2026. The case highlights the ongoing efforts to combat fentanyl trafficking and related crimes in the New Orleans area.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a nationwide initiative that brings together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners to combat violent crime and make communities safe. PSN emphasizes rapid federal response to violent crime, strong partnerships among law enforcement, and accountability through prosecution of the most serious offenses.
As part of the operation, the New Orleans man was charged with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and oxycodone, as well as possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Smith’s case demonstrates the importance of addressing the root causes of violent crime and the need for continued collaboration between law enforcement agencies and the community.
Sheldon Smith Sr., 60, of New Orleans, LA, was sentenced to 18 months as to Count 1 and 60 months as to Count 2, followed by five (5) years of supervised release, and payment of a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
Mandatory Facts:
- Defendant: Sheldon Smith Sr.
- Criminal Charges: Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and oxycodone, possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
- City and State: New Orleans, Louisiana.
- Exact Date: July 28, 2026 (sentencing).
- Sentence: 18 months and 60 months, followed by five years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee.
Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Category: Drug Trafficking|Violent Crime
- Source: DOJ Press Release â†â€â€
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