TARAY BUTLER, age 21, of Algiers, has pleaded guilty to multiple counts of violating federal firearm and narcotics laws. BUTLER pled guilty to illegally being a felon in possession of a firearm on October 14, 2014, after members of the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) arrested him while he was trespassing on Housing Authority of New Orleans (HANO) property in the Fischer development.
At the time of his arrest, BUTLER was found to be in possession of a stolen Glock .40 caliber pistol with an extended magazine. This incident was just the beginning of BUTLER’s troubles with the law, as he also pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute heroin. BUTLER was observed by members of the NOPD’s MAG unit committing traffic violations and attempted to stop him, but he fled.
After a pursuit, BUTLER’s vehicle was ultimately recovered, and NOPD officers located a quantity of heroin pre-packaged for sale on the floor of the vehicle. This was not the only instance of BUTLER’s involvement in narcotics, as he also pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute heroin and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. These charges arose from a search warrant executed at BUTLER’s residence on May 6, 2016, when law enforcement officers located six firearms and a quantity of heroin.
BUTLER faces a minimum sentence of five years up to life imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, and five years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance set sentencing for February 22, 2017, at 9:30 a.m. The severity of the sentence reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed by BUTLER, and the danger he posed to the community.
U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), New Orleans Police Department, and the United States Marshals Service in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Myles Ranier is in charge of the prosecution. The successful prosecution of BUTLER is a testament to the dedication and hard work of law enforcement agencies in keeping the community safe.
The guilty plea of TARAY BUTLER serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle against narcotics and firearms crimes in Louisiana. The case highlights the importance of cooperation between law enforcement agencies and the need for swift and severe punishment for those who engage in such activities. As the community awaits the sentencing of BUTLER, it is clear that justice will be served, and those who commit such heinous crimes will be held accountable.
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Key Facts
- State: Louisiana
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Violent Crime|Weapons
- Source: Official Source ↗
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