Natchitoches, LA — On January 14, 2025, law enforcement officials from the Natchitoches Parish Drug Enforcement Unit and the Natchitoches Police Department Narcotics Unit executed a search warrant in the 100 block of Amanda Drive in Natchitoches according to Sheriff Stuart Wright. This operation is part of an ongoing effort to combat the spread of fentanyl throughout Natchitoches Parish. After several months of investigation, a search warrant was granted for the residence of 33- year-old Michael Edwards. During the search, agents discovered approximately 8 ounces of suspected "blue" fentanyl, with some of the substance pre-packaged for sale. Additionally, agents found numerous drug paraphernalia items and a Beretta 9mm handgun on the premises.
Arrests made include:
Michael Edwards, 33, of the 100 block of Amanda Drive, Natchitoches:
- Possession of controlled dangerous substances (CDS) in the presence of a firearm
- Possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
- Possession with intent to distribute CDS II (fentanyl)
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Illegal use of CDS in the presence of minors
- Improper supervision
- Second or subsequent offenses
Anthony Currington, 41, of the 100 block of Reba Street, Natchitoches, LA:
- Possession with intent to distribute CDS II (fentanyl)
- Possession of drug paraphernalia
- Illegal use of CDS in the presence of minors
- Second or subsequent offenses
Janeen Howard, 31, of the 100 block of Tjoe Street, Natchitoches, LA:
- Improper supervision
The investigation is ongoing. For further information, please contact the Natchitoches Parish Drug Enforcement Unit. Booking images of Currington and Howard are currently unavailable. 2 milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal therefore 8 ounces of fentanyl could theoretically kill over 113,000 people, depending on the exact dose and individual circumstances. It's important to note that fentanyl is often mixed with other drugs, sometimes without the user's knowledge, making it especially dangerous and increasing the risk of overdose.