Tangipahoa Parish Men Indicted On Cocaine Charges

Three Tangipahoa Parish residents have been indicted on drug and gun charges in a federal indictment announced by U.S. Attorney Dana J. Boente. JEFFREY MICHELE, 43; LESLIE MCMORRIS, 55; and SAM MICHELE, III, 40, all face charges related to cocaine conspiracy and distribution occurring in Tangipahoa Parish.

According to the indictment, JEFFREY MICHELE, LESLIE MCMORRIS, and SAM MICHELE, III did knowingly and intentionally conspire and agree to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride from a time unknown and continuing until on or about July 7, 2013. JEFFREY MICHELE is also charged with distribution of a quantity of cocaine hydrochloride.

If convicted on all charges, JEFFREY MICHELE, LESLIE MCMORRIS, and SAM MICHELE, III face a minimum term of imprisonment of ten years, a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of $10,000,000, and a minimum term of five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Boente reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The investigation is being conducted by Special Agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andre’ Jones.

The indictment charges JEFFREY MICHELE, LESLIE MCMORRIS, and SAM MICHELE, III with two counts involving cocaine conspiracy and distribution charges occurring in Tangipahoa Parish. The indictment alleges that the men conspired and agreed to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride.

JEFFREY MICHELE, LESLIE MCMORRIS, and SAM MICHELE, III are scheduled to appear in court for arraignment on the indictment. The indictment is a sworn statement of the grand jury’s findings and is not evidence of guilt. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation into the alleged cocaine conspiracy and distribution is ongoing. Anyone with information about the case is urged to contact the Drug Enforcement Administration at [phone number].

Tangipahoa Parish residents are advised to be vigilant and report any suspicious activity to the authorities. The U.S. Attorney’s Office reminds the public that an indictment is not a conviction and that the defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

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