Source: Office of United States Attorneys
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FERNANDO BRISTER (“BRISTER”), age 35, and resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana was indicted on January 31, 2025, announced Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson. Count One of the indictment charged him with distribution of Methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). Count Two charged him with being a felon in possession of firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1), 924(a)(8), and 942(e).
If convicted, BRISTER faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least 3 years of supervised release for Count One. For Count Two, BRISTER faces not less than 15 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to 3 years of supervised release. BRISTER also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee as to both counts.
According to court documents, on January 31, 2023, BRISTER knowingly and intentionally distributed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, to an undisclosed person. On February 6, 2023, BRISTER was a felon and knowingly possessed a Glock Model 43, nine–millimeter caliber pistol and ammunition.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Washington Parish Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Troy Bell of the Violent Crime Unit.