Kenner, Louisiana – A Kenner, Louisiana, woman has been sentenced to nearly four years in federal prison after admitting to distributing fentanyl and possessing the drug with intent to distribute, according to court records.

Shawna Martin, 56, was sentenced on December 8, 2025, to 46 months in federal prison. In addition to the prison term, the court imposed four years of supervised release and a $300 mandatory special assessment fee. Martin previously pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

DEA Investigation Into 2023 Fentanyl Distribution

According to court documents, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating Martin in the latter part of 2023 after receiving information about suspected drug distribution activity linked to her in the Eastern District of Louisiana.

During the investigation, agents determined that Martin distributed more than 40 grams of fentanyl pills in the region. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid, much stronger than heroin and morphine, and is a major driver of fatal overdoses across the United States.

As part of the probe, investigators documented two fentanyl sales and a later seizure of pills intended for distribution:

• August 24, 2023: Martin sold approximately 30.7 grams of fentanyl to an individual she believed to be a legitimate buyer.
• September 6, 2023: Martin sold an additional 67 grams of fentanyl to the same individual.
• September 20, 2023: Martin was found in possession of 114.86 grams of fentanyl, which she possessed with intent to distribute.

Together, the transactions and seizure show that Martin was involved with significant quantities of fentanyl, a substance that is illegal to distribute without proper authorization and that is tightly controlled under federal law.

Charges and Federal Sentencing

Martin pleaded guilty to two federal offenses:

• Distribution of fentanyl
• Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl

The 46-month sentence reflects federal sentencing guidelines, which take into account the type and quantity of the drug, the defendant’s role in the offense, and their criminal history, among other factors. After completing her prison term, Martin will be under federal supervision for four years. During supervised release, individuals must follow strict conditions, which can include drug testing, reporting to a probation officer, and restrictions on certain activities.

The $300 mandatory special assessment is a standard fee required by federal law for criminal convictions and is separate from any fines or restitution a court might impose.

Role Of Federal Authorities

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the primary federal agency responsible for enforcing the nation’s controlled substances laws and regulations. The prosecution was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.

Federal narcotics units typically focus on drug trafficking networks, distribution operations, and cases involving dangerous substances such as fentanyl. These units work to identify suppliers, distributors, and others involved in illegal drug markets, often using undercover operations, confidential sources, and surveillance.

While the court documents in this case focus on Martin’s conduct and sentence, the investigation forms part of broader federal efforts to address fentanyl distribution in Louisiana and across the country.