New Orleans Man Indicted for Fentanyl Distribution

NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA - CRAIG JAMES ("JAMES"), age 38, of New Orleans, was indicted on January 29, 2026 for Distribution of Fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(B), announced United States Attorney David I. Courcelle.

According to the indictment, on or about July 14, 2025, JAMES distributed forty (40) grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance.

If convicted, JAMES faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years up to forty years; a fine of up to $5 Million; and at least four years of supervised release. JAMES also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee

U.S. Attorney Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Briana N. Williams of the Narcotics Unit is in charge of the prosecution.