United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that Talya Smith, 29, of New Orleans, was indicted on September 26, 2024, for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts.
Smith is charged in Count 1 of the indictment with possession with intent to distribute tapentadol and marijuana in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D). He is charged in count 2 with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(I).
In count 3, he is charged with possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(o), and in count 4 with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)1).
As to count 1, Smith faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. As to count 2, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years up to life in prison, which is to run consecutively to all other sentences, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to five years of supervised release.
As to count 3, he faces up to ten years’ imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Finally, as to count 4, Smith faces up to 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
According to court documents, on or about March 31, 2024, Smith allegedly possessed with the intent to distribute tapentadol and marijuana. He also allegedly illegally possessed a Glock Model 23, .40 calibre handgun and ammunition in furtherance of his possession, with intent to distribute tapentadol and marijuana.
Additionally, this firearm had a machinegun conversion device attached to it. Lastly, as a previously convicted felon, Smith knew he was prohibited from possessing the firearm and ammunition.
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