Through the investigation, Agents were able to make several controlled purchases of suspected heroin and crack cocaine from multiple individuals in the area. The individuals identified from the purchases were known to the agents due past arrests and convictions for distribution and possession with intent to distribute cases. Agents were able to obtain multiple arrest warrants as well as search warrants for residences in this area.

On Friday April 1, 2022, TPSO along with the assistance of Hammond Police Department, Ponchatoula Police Department, and Department of Homeland Security began executing the arrest and search warrant, seizing approximately 7 pounds of suspected marijuana, approximately one half ounce of suspected heroin, approximately one half ounce of suspected crack cocaine, numerous prescription pills, and a semi-automatic rifle.

Chief Jimmy Travis reports the arrests of Jerome Roger, (38 year old B/M) of Hammond, La and Elton James Smith, (39 year old B/M) of Hammond, La.

Rogers has been charged with the following-

(2) counts of Distribution of Heroin

(1) count of Possession with the with intent to distribute heroin

(1) count of possession with the intent to distribute marijuana

(1) count of possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine

(6) counts of possession with intent to distribute CDS II “ various opiate based prescription pills”

(1) count of possession of suboxone

(1) count of possession of a legend drug “non-controlled but prescription only pill”

(1) count of possession of drug paraphernalia

Smith has been charged with the following-

(2) counts of distribution of crack cocaine

(1) count of possession with the intent to distribute crack cocaine

(1) count of possession of marijuana

(1) count of possession of oxycodone

(1) count of possession of drug paraphernalia

(1) count of possession of a firearm while in the possession of a controlled dangerous substance

**Note- All persons accused of any crime are to be considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.