Marrero Man Pleads Guilty to Firearm and Drug Charges

Acting U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that FERNANDO ORDONEZ, age 38, of Marrero, pled guilty yesterday to charges of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, heroin, and marijuana, and possessing of a firearm during a drug trafficking crime.

According to the court documents, prior to December 15, 2016, ORDONEZ, co-defendant HECTOR MATA, JR., and others conspired to possess cocaine, heroin, and marijuana. ORDONEZ also pled guilty to possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime: a .38 caliber Smith and Wesson Revolver.

ORDONEZ is facing a maximum of 20 years of imprisonment on the drug conspiracy count. On the weapons charge, ORDONEZ is facing a minimum of 5 years to a maximum of life imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey set sentenced for September 12, 2017.

Acting U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this case. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan L. Shih is in charge of the prosecution.