The Natchitoches Police Department Street Sales Disruption Unit (SDU) arrested Yupremina Washington, 49 of Natchitoches, on Sept. 24 following the execution of a search warrant in the 600 block of Genti Street. The warrant was the result of a lengthy investigation into reports of illicit narcotics sales in the Town South area.

During the search, agents seized approximately 4 grams of crack cocaine, 456 suspected MDMA (ecstasy) pills, approximately 1 pound 3.7 ounces of suspected methamphetamine, and 80 suspected tramadol pills.

Washington was charged with possession of CDS Schedule II (crack cocaine) with intent to distribute, possession of CDS Schedule II (methamphetamine) with intent to distribute, possession of CDS Schedule I (MDMA) with intent to distribute, and possession of CDS Schedule IV (tramadol) with intent to distribute. All evidence will be submitted to the crime lab for analysis.

Although arrested on Sept. 24, Washington was not booked into the Natchitoches detention center until Sept. 30 due to his need for isolation following a lung cancer diagnosis. According to Dr. Pamela Hearn, medical director for LaSalle Corrections, the detention center does not have the ability to maintain Washington’s treatment during incarceration.

At a bond hearing, Judge Lala Sylvester acknowledged the seriousness of the case but noted the fiscal challenges facing the parish. She lowered Washington’s bond to $75,000, citing financial necessity, and imposed strict conditions on his release. Washington will be on house incarceration under ankle monitoring, with geo-screening of his residence. He is required to pay the initial costs of the monitoring system.

In addition, Washington must provide weekly documentation from his physician confirming that his treatment remains necessary and ongoing.

Judge Sylvester cautioned that if lab results confirm fentanyl in the drugs seized, Washington’s release conditions will be revoked, and he will be remanded to jail.

“This is a very sick man with lots and lots of street drugs. It’s not good,” Judge Sylvester said during the hearing.

Dr. Hearn testified that the immunotherapy infusion treatments Washington requires cost $40,000 to $50,000 and that no other inmate within the LaSalle Corrections system is currently receiving similar treatment.

NPD Street Sales Disruption Unit arrests Natchitoches man for drug offenses