Zwolle Man Sentenced to 19 Years for Meth, Guns

SHREVEPORT, La. – In a resounding victory against the illegal drug trade, Heath Meshell, the 34-year-old resident of Zwolle, Louisiana, was handed down a 19-year sentence on Monday for his role in methamphetamine distribution and firearms possession.

The harsh sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth E. Foote after Meshell pleaded guilty to the charges on December 19, 2016. The defendant’s conviction followed a meticulous investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA).

According to court documents, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Meshell’s residence on April 12, 2016. During the raid, authorities discovered over 1,700 grams of methamphetamine, prescription pills, digital scales, and $1,585 in cash. A cache of firearms also came to light, including a 9mm rifle, 9mm pistol, a 410 shotgun, and rounds of ammunition.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown spearheaded the prosecution of this case, ensuring that justice was served. Meshell’s sentence consists of 168 months for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and an additional 60 months for possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. He will also be under supervised release for five years following his prison term.

The conviction and sentencing underscore the commitment of federal law enforcement agencies to combatting the spread of dangerous drugs and curbing gun violence in Louisiana. As the DEA and ATF continue their efforts to keep communities safe, they remind residents that illegal drug activity will not be tolerated.

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