St. John The Baptist Parish Woman Indicted for Federal Drug Offenses

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JESSICA MARIE PORTWAY, age 41, of St. John the Baptist Parish, was indicted on May 9, 2024, for possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 841(b)(1)(C).

According to the indictment, on August 30, 2023, PORTWAY allegedly possessed with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a quantity of fentanyl, and a quantity of lysergic acid diethylamide (LSD).

If convicted, PORTWAY faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.  PORTWAY also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

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

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Briana Williams and Andre Jones of the Narcotics Unit.