Two men from Oklahoma are facing serious charges in Lafayette after local narcotics agents carried out a targeted search in the 2000 block of West Pinhook Road. Investigators say that search uncovered roughly 168 pounds of marijuana, a haul they estimate could have been worth about $1.5 million on the street. The arrests are part of an ongoing narcotics probe that authorities say is focused on cutting off large marijuana shipments into Acadiana.
The suspects were identified as 38-year-old Billy Shi of Oklahoma City and 48-year-old Jeffery Weston of Marlow, Oklahoma. Both men were booked into the Lafayette Parish jail and charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Each was being held on a $2.5 million bond, according to KFOR. Officials told the outlet that the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office led the operation.
Charges and penalties
Possession with intent to distribute marijuana in Louisiana falls under the state’s controlled substances laws and can bring multi-year prison terms along with substantial fines, depending on how much is involved and whether the accused has prior convictions. Louisiana Revised Statute 40:966 outlines penalties for distribution and possession with intent to distribute, with sentencing that increases as quantities rise or other enhancement factors come into play, according to Justia. Outcomes in cases like this often turn on what evidence prosecutors have of distribution, any criminal history, and whether investigators believe the drugs were part of interstate trafficking.
Seizure and scene
Investigators reported seizing about 168 pounds of marijuana and pegged its potential street value at roughly $1,522,440. The bust unfolded in the 2000 block of West Pinhook Road, and officers described the marijuana as packaged for distribution, according to KFOR. Authorities have not yet said whether they believe the load is linked to a broader trafficking network.
The investigation remains active, and officials say evidence from the case will be reviewed by the Lafayette Parish district attorney’s office. At the time of reporting, no additional case details or court actions had been released. Authorities are asking anyone with information to contact the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office.
