Press Releases
NORTH SHORE RESIDENT INDICTED ON FEDERAL DRUG AND FIREARMS CHARGES
March 27, 2008
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
JIMIYU VERNON, age 29, a resident of Arcola, Louisiana, was charged in a three count indictment by a Federal Grand Jury in illegal drug and gun charges, announced U. S. Attorney Jim Letten.
Count 1 of the indictment charges that on February 15, 2008, VERNON possessed with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of crack cocaine and cocaine. Count 2 charges VERNON with possessing a 9 mm handgun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
If convicted of the drug count, VERNON faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of $4,000,000.00 and five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. If convicted of possession of the firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five (5) years and a maximum of life in prison. Any sentence imposed as to Count 2 must be served consecutively to any other sentence that he would be serving.
U. S. Attorney Letten reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The investigation was conducted by the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr.
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