Two Trinidadian Men Indicted for Violating Federal Transnational Drug Trafficking Act

NEW ORLEANS, LA – Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that on September 19, 2025, DAVEANAN DEONARINE a/k/a “Dave,” (“ DEONARINE”) age 49, and MICHAEL SAMSONDAR a/k/a “Don,” a/k/a “Captain,” a/k/a “Fisherman,” (“SAMSONDAR”) age 48, both of Trinidad and Tobago, were charged in a recently unsealed two-count indictment for international cocaine distribution conspiracy, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 959(a), 959(d), 960(a)(3), 960(b)(1)(B), and 963 and international cocaine distribution, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 959(a), 959(d), 960(a)(3), and 960(b)(1)(B).

During a bilateral investigation, agents arrested both DEONARINE and SAMSONDAR stemming from a 2023 Drug Enforcement Administration investigation that yielded the seizure of approximately 168 kilograms of cocaine that was intended for distribution in the United States.

If convicted, DEONARINE and SAMSONDAR each face a minimum term of ten years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment as to each charged count of, international cocaine distribution conspiracy, and international cocaine distribution. As to each charged count, DEONARINE and SAMSONDAR, individually, also face payment of a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago Country Office, the Transnational Organized Crime Unit, the Strategic Services Agency, and the Special Investigative Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Services. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lynn E. Schiffman and André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

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