Six arrested in large-scale marijuana distribution bust in Rapides Parish

PINEVILLE, La. (WNTZ) — A months-long narcotics investigation in Rapides Parish culminated in the arrest of six individuals on Feb. 13, with authorities seizing approximately 170 pounds of high-grade marijuana, $40,000 in cash, firearms, body armor, and drug paraphernalia.

The Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit, in collaboration with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Louisiana State Probation and Parole, executed four search warrants across multiple locations in Pineville. Authorities identified a residence on Betty Street as a primary “stash house” used for drug storage and distribution.

The operation follows the initial Dec. 6, 2023, arrest of Guangyi He, 38, of Pineville, who was accused of transporting 51 pounds of marijuana into Rapides Parish for alleged distribution. Subsequent investigations led to He’s Jan. 5, 2024, arrest, along with his co-conspirators, resulting in the seizure of 66 pounds of marijuana and $35,000 in cash.

During the Feb. 13 raids, five individuals were booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center, while He was taken into ICE custody for deportation proceedings.

Arrested Individuals

• Jericho Elijah Day, 28 – Booked on multiple charges, including possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, illegal firearm possession, unlawful use of body armor, and probation violation. Held on a $350,500 bond.
• Jaquarius Deonte Sewell, 29 – Charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute. Released on a $300,000 bond.
• Sammie Ray Sewell III, 30 – Charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, obstruction of justice, littering, and failure to signal. Released on a $111,100 bond.
• Stanley Dewayne White Jr., 22 – Charged with possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, illegal firearm possession, and improper display. Released on a $125,600 bond.
• Jamesetta Lassette Vorise, 33 – Charged with obstruction of justice and an outstanding contempt of court warrant. Released on an $11,000 bond.
• Guangyi He, 38 – Taken into ICE custody for deportation proceedings.

Authorities say the investigation remains ongoing.

The RADE Unit is a multi-agency task force that includes law enforcement agencies from across Central Louisiana. The unit continues to target individuals suspected of narcotics trafficking in the region.

Community members with information about drug activity are encouraged to report tips via the RADE Facebook page: facebook.com/RADEunit.

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