New Orleans, Louisiana – A 46-year-old New Orleans resident has been sentenced to nearly six years in federal prison after admitting to distributing more than 40 grams of fentanyl in the Eastern District of Louisiana.
Rickey Smith, of New Orleans, was sentenced on December 9, 2025, to 71 months in prison, followed by four years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Smith previously pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl, a powerful synthetic opioid that has been linked to a high number of overdose deaths nationwide.
Details Of The Drug Distribution Case
According to court documents, in the later part of 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration, or DEA, received information from the New Orleans Police Department about suspected drug distribution activity involving Smith. That information led to a joint investigation by the two agencies.
Investigators determined that Smith was distributing fentanyl from his apartment located within the Eastern District of Louisiana. During the investigation, Smith completed three separate fentanyl sales to a person he believed was a legitimate buyer.
Authorities say the controlled purchases took place on the following dates and involved the following amounts:
- November 4, 2024: 3.493 grams of fentanyl
- December 3, 2024: 13.97 grams of fentanyl
- December 17, 2024: 56.6 grams of fentanyl
In total, Smith distributed more than 40 grams of fentanyl during these transactions. The quantities, while they may seem small by weight, are significant because fentanyl is extremely potent. Even a few milligrams can be lethal, which is one reason federal law treats fentanyl distribution as a serious offense.
Federal Prosecution And Sentencing
The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the New Orleans Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.
Smith’s 71-month prison sentence reflects federal sentencing guidelines for distribution of 40 grams or more of fentanyl. After he completes his term of imprisonment, he will be under four years of supervised release, a period during which he must follow strict conditions set by the court. Violations during that time can result in a return to custody.