New Orleans, Louisiana - Anthony Windell Brown, 30, of New Orleans, pleaded guilty on July 31, 2025, to federal charges involving fentanyl distribution, firearms offenses, and money laundering, according to Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Brown admitted guilt to multiple counts, including conspiracy to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and money laundering.
Court documents state Brown’s drug trafficking activity began before March 2022 and continued through May 29, 2024, in the Eastern District of Louisiana. Brown conspired with others to distribute at least 400 grams of fentanyl, a synthetic opioid classified as a Schedule I controlled substance under federal law. Such charges carry severe penalties due to fentanyl’s high risk for abuse and overdose. Under current law, conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl triggers a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, with a potential maximum penalty of life in prison and a fine up to $10 million, along with at least five years of supervised release.
In August and October 2023, Brown attempted to obtain more than 400 grams of fentanyl for distribution. On May 29, 2024, authorities found him with fentanyl, a stolen Glock Model 27, two other semi-automatic pistols, and evidence showing he used a residence in the 1900 block of Desire Street in New Orleans to facilitate drug trafficking. The presence of multiple firearms during drug crimes elevated the charges, resulting in an additional mandatory minimum sentence of five years, and up to life imprisonment, to be served consecutively with the drug sentence.
In addition to narcotics and weapons charges, Brown pleaded guilty to money laundering, specifically by conducting financial transactions using proceeds from illegal activities to promote ongoing criminal behavior. Conviction on this count alone carries up to 20 years in prison and a fine up to $500,000.
Brown awaits sentencing while facing substantial prison time, multi-million dollar fines, several years of supervised release after imprisonment, and mandatory $100 special assessments for each conviction. The investigation remains ongoing.