The New Orleans Police Department and Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office announced Monday they dismantled a large-scale drug making and selling operation.
Sheriff Joe Lopinto says search warrants executed last week at two Jefferson Parish locations uncovered a sophisticated indoor cultivation operation and seized approximately 190 marijuana plants and 45 pounds of processed marijuana and made arrests at both locations.
"Utilizing that and the individuals that were arrested in the Jefferson Parish cases, we developed another case inside the city of New Orleans," said Sheriff Joe Lopinto.
Working with NOPD, investigators say they found another grow operation in Algiers, this time seizing another 230 plants, hallucinogenic mushrooms, and cocaine.
NOPD Superintendent Anne Kirkpatrick says they also seized about 50 firearms, some of them fully automatic.
"This is about intentional strategies, strong partnerships, and consistent follow through," the chief said. "What we’re seeing here is not just a drug operation, but a dangerous mix of illegal narcotics and high-powered weapons that put our communities at risk."
One suspect, identified as 42-year-old Long Van Pham, remains at large.
Anyone with information that can assist in this ongoing investigation is urged to contact the NOPD or the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office immediately, or Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111 or toll free at (877) 903-7867 (STOP).
Callers to Crimestoppers do not have to leave their names and may be eligible for a cash reward.
