Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that a 27-year-old man, Ralph Price, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in New Orleans on April 4, 2025. The indictment against Price includes three counts, charging violations of the Federal Gun Control Act and Federal Controlled Substances Act.
Price faces charges in Count 1 for possession with intent to distribute substances such as methamphetamine, Suboxone, and marijuana, violating Title 21, United States Code. Count 2 accuses him of possessing a machine gun to further a drug trafficking offense, a breach of Title 18, United States Code. Count 3 also concerns possession of a machine gun, underlined by Title 18 violations.
If convicted on Count 1, Price could be sentenced to a maximum of 20 years in prison, fined up to $1,000,000, and face at least three years of supervised release. Count 2 carries a mandatory sentence of at least 30 years, possibly life, with a potential fine of $250,000 and up to five years of supervised release. Count 3 could result in a maximum 10-year sentence, a $10,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Each charge includes a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.
The indictment, dated March 13, 2025, states that Price intended to distribute methamphetamine, Suboxone, and marijuana. It also accuses him of possessing a Glock Model 19 pistol, modified with a machine gun conversion device, related to the drug trafficking crime.
Simpson reminded the public that the indictment is a charge and does not prove guilt, which must be established beyond reasonable doubt.
The investigation was handled by the FBI and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is prosecuting the case. This indictment is a part of Operation Take Back America, a Department of Justice initiative targeting illegal immigration, drug cartels, and transnational criminal organizations.