Two Suspects Arrested in Louisiana in Connection with Distribution of Drugs Suspected to Have Led to a Fatal Overdose in 2022

East Baton Rouge Parish, Louisiana - Two suspects have been arrested in Louisiana in connection with the distribution of drugs suspected to have led to a fatal overdose in 2022.

The East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office (EBRSO) revealed on April 5, 2023, that over the previous month, EBRSO Narcotics had investigated Reginald Banks after Banks was identified as a possible source of supply for a fatal overdose in December of 2022, which was investigated by Baton Rouge Police Department (BRPD) Homicide.

According to authorities, agents were able to perform three controlled purchases of fentanyl from banks, and the purchases were captured on audio and video recordings. Agents are also said to have identified two areas where Banks operate. Banks' home on Bessie Dr. in Livingston Parish and Banks' sister's home on Lorraine St. in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The premises were served with search warrants.

On April 4, 2023, ERBSO Narcotics Agents apprehended Banks with the assistance of EBRSO K-9 and then executed both search warrants with the cooperation of LPSO and EBRSO Intelligence.

Reginald Banks, 30, was charged with Distribution of Sch. II (Fentanyl)/(1 count in EBR and 2 in Ascension Parish), Possession with intent to distribute Sch. II (Fentanyl), Operation of a Clandestine Lab, Possession of a Firearm with Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Michelle Banks, 49 was charged with Possession with intent to distribute Sch. II (Fentanyl), Operation of a Clandestine Lab, Possession of a Firearm with Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Authorities indicted that during the investigation, 7.5 ounces of Fentanyl (approx. 2,100 lethal doses), a Beretta .22 caliber handgun, a hydraulic press (used to process fentanyl/heroin), and a
digital scale were seized.

Divisions assisting in the investigation include EBRSO K-9, EBRSO Intelligence, CBP/HSI Air support, Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office Narcotics, and BRPD Homicide.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is presumed innocent until proven guilty.