JOE WALLACE PEEPLES, 52, a resident of Buffalo, New York,, was indicted by a federal Grand Jury on counts of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine as well as possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime announced U. S. Attorney Jim Letten. The indictment of PEEPLES followed his arrest on Interstate 12 in St. Tammany Parish pursuant to a traffic violation and subsequent consent to search of his vehicle. The search of his vehicle led to the seizure of multiple kilograms of cocaine and three firearms.

According to court records, on or about December 11, 2011, PEEPLES did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate and agree with others to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine hydrochloride. Also, PEEPLES allegedly knowingly possessed three firearms: two Glocks and a Rossi .357 Magnum in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime.

The drug counts of the indictment carry a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years in prison and a maximum term of life imprisonment. The gun count carries a mandatory minimum of five years imprisonment to run consecutive to any other imposed sentence.

U. S. Attorney Letten reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The investigation is being conducted by Drug Enforcement Administration and Louisiana State Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Andre’ Jones.

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