A New Orleans resident has pleaded guilty to distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl, according to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana. Rickey Smith, 46, entered his plea on September 2, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry.
“Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that RICKEY SMITH (“SMITH”), age 46, a resident of New Orleans, pled guilty on September 2, 2025, before United States District Judge Greg G. Guidry to distribution of forty grams or more of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B).”
According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating Smith in late 2024 after receiving information from the New Orleans Police Department about his drug activities. The investigation revealed that Smith distributed over 40 grams of fentanyl from his apartment in the Eastern District of Louisiana. On three occasions—November 4, December 3, and December 17, 2024—Smith sold amounts totaling approximately 74 grams of fentanyl to an individual he believed was a legitimate buyer.
“According to court documents, in the latter part of 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration received information from the New Orleans Police Department regarding SMITH’s drug distribution activity. Through investigation, it was determined that SMITH distributed over 40 grams of fentanyl from his apartment located within the Eastern District of Louisiana. On November 4, December 3, and December 17, 2024, SMITH sold 3.493 grams, 13.97 grams and 56.6 grams of fentanyl, respectively, to an individual he believed to be a legitimate buyer.”
Smith faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to forty years in prison if convicted. He could also be fined up to $5 million and must serve at least four years under supervised release after any prison term.
“SMITH faces a minimum term of five years up to a maximum term of forty years imprisonment, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.”
The DEA and New Orleans Police Department conducted the investigation into Smith’s activities. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman is prosecuting the case.
“The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.”
