Renard Santiago, a 19-year-old from New Orleans, has pleaded guilty to charges of drug trafficking and possessing a machinegun. The plea was entered on February 18, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter. Santiago admitted to conspiracy and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, violating several sections of Title 21 of the United States Code. He also faced charges for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possession of a machinegun under Title 18.
Acting U.S. Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced the guilty plea. Court documents revealed that Santiago was sought by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the New Orleans Police Department due to his involvement in an armed robbery and a separate shooting incident.
During their investigation, law enforcement officers discovered Instagram stories posted by Santiago displaying him with a handgun equipped with a machinegun conversion device, large amounts of cash, and advertising marijuana sales. Following this discovery, officers executed a search warrant at his residence where Santiago hid in the attic for four hours before being apprehended.
Inside the attic, authorities found Santiago's handgun with the conversion device attached, distributable quantities of marijuana, and over $400 in cash.
As part of his plea agreement, Santiago will serve 15 years in prison. The court has taken his guilty plea but deferred its decision on accepting or rejecting the negotiated plea until sentencing occurs. In addition to prison time, he faces supervised release ranging from two years up to life and fines potentially reaching $250,000 per count along with mandatory special assessment fees.
This case is linked to Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which aims to reduce violent crime through collaboration between law enforcement agencies and communities they serve. The initiative emphasizes building trust within communities while supporting organizations that prevent violence.
The FBI and New Orleans Police Department conducted the investigation into this case which is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Berman from the Violent Crime Unit.