Jerry D. Smith, 52, was sentenced on April 16 to 63 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The sentencing was announced by U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
Smith was stopped by Louisiana State Police on August 28, 2022, for a traffic infraction and found to be driving a stolen vehicle. During the stop, troopers discovered kilogram quantities of cocaine hidden inside the car. Smith admitted he had traveled from Texas to the Eastern District of Louisiana with plans to sell the drugs.
The investigation involved Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana State Police, and the Kenner Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit prosecuted the case.
The U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Louisiana enhances community safety through law enforcement efforts according to its official website. The office operates under the U.S. Department of Justice according to its official website and enforces federal laws while prosecuting criminal cases according to its official website.
The U.S. Attorney is appointed by the President with Senate approval according to its official website, serves as chief federal law enforcement officer for Southeast Louisiana according to its official website, and handles both criminal prosecutions and civil matters on behalf of residents in that area according to its official website.
This case highlights ongoing efforts by federal authorities in Southeast Louisiana against drug trafficking offenses.
