Louisiana Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 16 Years for Possession of Methamphetamine, Cocaine, a Firearm, and Other Charges

Louisiana – On July 13, 2022, DaMarcus Lionell Williams, 29, of Colfax, Louisiana, was sentenced in federal court on drug trafficking and firearms charges, announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. Williams was sentenced by United States District Judge David C. Joseph to 192 months (16 years) in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release.

On May 2, 2022, Williams pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. These charges stem from Williams’ arrest on June 9, 2021, by Rapides Area Drug Enforcement Task Force officers. Officers made contact with Williams in Grant Parish, Louisiana, when he arrived at the scene of an ongoing traffic stop. They recognized Williams and knew he had an active arrest warrant, so he was arrested in accordance with the warrant.

Officers lawfully searched Williams’ vehicle and discovered suspected cocaine in the center console, as well as methamphetamine, marijuana, hydrocodone, and buprenorphine hydrochloride pills, a loaded.880 Diamondback pistol, and digital scales in various shoe boxes in the vehicle. In addition, Williams had three cell phones in the vehicle. When questioned about the drugs and gun discovered, Williams admitted they were his. Soon after, police officers conducted a lawful search of Williams’ bedroom at his mother’s house.

Officers discovered approximately 2.3 grams of suspected marijuana, ammunition, and cash during their search. A lab confirmed that the suspected methamphetamine contained 416.56 grams of methamphetamine. A lab tested the suspected cocaine and determined it to be 42.309 grams of cocaine (powder).

Williams has prior felony convictions for possession of a legend drug in 2012, cocaine possession with intent to distribute in 2016, and methamphetamine distribution in 2017. Williams was aware that as a convicted felon, he was not permitted to possess a firearm or ammunition.

The FBI, ATF, and Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office investigated the case, which was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian C. Flanagan and Earl M. Campbell.