Fernando Brister, age 35, of Bogalusa, Louisiana, is facing serious federal charges following an indictment for drug distribution and firearm possession. The indictment handed down on January 31, as announced by Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson, specified allegations of methamphetamine distribution and the illegal possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to the U.S. Attorney's Office, Brister may serve up to 20 years in prison, and be fined up to $1,000,000 for the drug distribution charge. The gun possession charge further jeopardizes Brister with an additional minimum of 15 years imprisonment and up to $250,000 in fines.
The court documents reveal that Brister purportedly distributed methamphetamine on January 31, 2023. Following that, on February 6, Brister, a known felon, reportedly possessed a Glock Model 43, nine-millimeter caliber pistol, complete with ammunition. These charges situate Brister at the center of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a government initiative aimed at curbing violent crimes and gun-related violence. The PSN strategy implements community engagement and stringent enforcement to establish safer neighborhoods.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson took care to point out in the indictment statement that these charges are accusations, emphasizing that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. Simpson's office also highlighted that Brister faced a mandatory special assessment fee of $100 for both of the counts he's been charged with.
The joint investigation leading to Brister's indictment included efforts by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives along with the Washington Parish Police Department, showcasing inter-agency cooperation to tackle crime. Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit is handling the prosecution.
