Samuel Morton, also known as “Sosa,” has been sentenced for his involvement in racketeering, firearm, and drug conspiracies. Morton, 27, from New Orleans, received a sentence on July 2, 2025. The charges include conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (18 U.S.C. § 1962(d)), conspiracy to distribute controlled substances (21 U.S.C. § 846), and conspiracy to possess firearms (18 U.S.C. § 924(o)).
Court documents reveal that Morton was a member of the Byrd Gang, operating mainly out of the former Magnolia Housing Development in Central City New Orleans. The gang was involved in a violent drug trafficking operation in New Orleans since 2014. They distributed drugs such as heroin, fentanyl, crack cocaine, and marijuana while possessing firearms regularly. Morton’s involvement included acts of violence during an ongoing feud with rival Ghost Gang members.
United States District Judge Milazzo sentenced Morton to 216 months imprisonment for each count concurrently, followed by five years of supervised release. Additionally, he must pay a $300 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), aiming to reduce violent crime and gun violence through collaboration between law enforcement and communities. The program’s core principles include fostering trust within communities and supporting organizations that prevent violence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson commended the efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Elizabeth Privitera and Sarah Dawkins are prosecuting the case from the Violent Crime Unit.
