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Seven individuals arrested in connection with a major drug trafficking ring in Bogalusa were booked into the Washington Parish Jail on Wednesday, Jan. 8, 2024.

The arrests are part of an ongoing investigation into a drug trafficking organization operating in the area. Those arrested face a range of charges related to drug distribution, possession, and financial transactions tied to illicit activities.

• Mackenzie L. Cefalu:
  • Conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance
  • Seven counts of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
  • Possession with intent to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance
  • Possession of a Schedule I controlled substance
  • Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Tonya R. Stage:
  • Possession of marijuana
  • Conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance
  • Two counts of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
• Devan Williams:
  • Four counts of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
• De-Salaam W. Pittman:
  • Conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance
  • Distribution of a Schedule I controlled substance
  • One count of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
• Salahal-Dien Pittman:
  • Three counts of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
• Dirul S. Pittman:
  • Two counts of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
• Reginald Burnette:
  • Conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled substance

Ongoing Investigation

Authorities have described the arrests as part of a broader crackdown on drug trafficking and violent crime in the region. Multiple agencies, including the Louisiana State Police, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and Bogalusa Police Department, are continuing their investigation, with additional arrests expected in the coming days.

The Washington Parish District Attorney’s Office emphasized that charges are based on evidence collected through months of investigation. District Attorney Collin Sims stated, “We remain committed to pursuing justice and ensuring the safety of our community.”