Indictment Unsealed in Cocaine Trafficking Conspiracy

U.S. Attorney Kenneth A. Polite announced today’s unsealing of a two-count Indictment charging CRAIG JAMES, age 37, of Houston, LAZANDY DANIELS, age 39, and LEON JACKSON, JR., age 41, both of New Orleans, with conspiracy to distribute 5 kilograms or more of a mixture or substance containing cocaine hydrochloride (“powder cocaine”) and 28 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing cocaine base (“crack cocaine”).  JAMES and DANIELS are also charged with possessing with intent to distribute 28 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing cocaine base. 

If found guilty of the lead conspiracy charge, each defendant faces a mandatory minimum of ten years of imprisonment, a maximum life sentence, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five years of supervised release.  

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

U.S. Attorney Polite praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) in investigating this matter.  Assistant United States Attorney Brandon S. Long is in charge of the prosecution.