Enough Fentanyl to Kill More Than 21k People Seized and Two Arrested in Multi-Agency Investigation in Louisiana
East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana – Enough fentanyl to kill more than 21,000 people was seized and two suspects were arrested in a multi-agency investigation in Louisiana.
Agents have been conducting an investigation into a criminal enterprise involving the trafficking of fentanyl and marijuana, with Howard Golphin leading the drug operation. The main hub for processing and storing the drugs has been identified as a home in the 2800 Block of Victoria Drive in East Baton Rouge Parish. On June 29, 2023, law enforcement teams from EBRSO Narcotics, EBRSO K9, and LPSO Narcotics Division executed search warrants at both the address in the 2800 Block of Victoria Drive and an address in the 10300 Block of Grand Plaza Drive. As a result, two individuals were arrested and a significant amount of fentanyl was confiscated, enough to potentially cause fatal harm to more than 21,000 individuals according to reports from authorities.
The aforementioned seizure and arrests have resulted in the confiscation of approximately 6.1 pounds of Fentanyl, equivalent to over 20,000 lethal doses, as well as 1,200 pressed Fentanyl pills. Additionally, 3.5 grams of cocaine and 7 pounds of marijuana were seized. The authorities also discovered a blender, scales, and cutting agents used in the process of Fentanyl. Furthermore, a Smith and Wesson Revolver (.38 special), a Taurus Semi-auto Handgun (9mm), and a Rossi Revolver (.38 special) were also seized.
Howard Golphin, 44, has been accused of various drug-related offenses including possession with intent to distribute a Schedule II substance (Fentanyl), as well as possession with intent to distribute a Schedule I substance (Marijuana). Additionally, he was caught with drug paraphernalia and was allegedly operating a secret lab for Fentanyl. Golphin was arrested in Livingston Parish and is currently in custody. At the time this was published, a written arrest warrant was being prepared regarding the mentioned charges. Prior to this incident, Golphin was already wearing an ankle monitor and was out on bail for previous drug offenses, including federal drug convictions.
Leo Kelly, 51, is currently wanted by the authorities. He is wanted for the following charges: possession with intent to distribute Schedule II drugs (Fentanyl), possession with intent to distribute Schedule I drugs (Marijuana), possession of drug paraphernalia, and operation of a clandestine lab involving Fentanyl. Authorities are asking that anyone with information contact 225-389-5000.
Ted Pullen, 37, was charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II drugs (specifically cocaine) and Possession of a Firearm while being involved with drugs.
The provided entities are Divisions that help in different areas. These include the K9 unit of the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office that focuses on interdiction, the Narcotics squad of the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Air Support units of the Louisiana National Guard and Homeland Security Investigations, as well as the Task Forces of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
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An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.