U.S. Attorney Ronald C. Gathe Jr. announced the successful conclusion of a drug-trafficking investigation that led to the arrest of six suspects. The federal grand jury indictment charges the individuals with multiple offenses, including drug distribution and firearm-related crimes.
According to the indictment, the suspects were allegedly involved in distributing cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, oxycodone, and heroin. Law enforcement agents seized over 443 grams of fentanyl and 68.1 grams of cocaine, along with several firearms.
The arrested suspects include:
- Leroy Miles, 45, of Donaldsonville, charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, possession of fentanyl and cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of firearms as a convicted felon, and using firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
- Joseph Brown, 37, of Donaldsonville, charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, and distribution of heroin and fentanyl.
- James Miles, 47, of Donaldsonville, charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Corey Powe, 55, of Donaldsonville, charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and using firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
- Marishell Ealem, 39, of Donaldsonville, charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and distribution of heroin and fentanyl.
- Destiny Renee McBride, 35, of Donaldsonville, charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), with assistance from local law enforcement agencies, including the Baton Rouge Police Department, Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office, Gonzales Police Department, and Iberville Parish Sheriff’s Office, as well as support from Homeland Security and the Internal Revenue Service.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office emphasized that an indictment is merely an accusation, and the suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in court.
