After a year-long investigation targeting gang violence and the distribution of fentanyl in Natchitoches Parish, federal indictments have been returned by the United States Western District of Louisiana.
This extensive investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in conjunction with the FBI Safe Streets Task Force, the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit (NPSO DEU), the Natchitoches Police Department, and other partnering local agencies. The investigation primarily focused on the sale and distribution of fentanyl throughout Natchitoches Parish and concluded with five federal indictments.
Authorities credit the close cooperation and coordination between the FBI and the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit as a key factor in the successful conclusion of this investigation.
Law enforcement officials state that additional investigations remain ongoing as agents continue efforts to combat gang-related violence and the spread of fentanyl in the region. Officials hope these indictments serve as a clear message to those involved in violent crime, including individuals connected to unresolved shootings, that law enforcement investigations are active, persistent, and will continue until those responsible are identified and held accountable. The FBI will continue its partnership with local law enforcement in hopes of further curbing violence and drug trafficking throughout the region.
The following individuals have been federally indicted:
• Edward Paige 100 block of Gibson St. Natchitoches, La — Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl; Distribution of Fentanyl
• Donovan Solitaire 200 block of Johnson Loop Natchez, La — Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl; Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl; Maintaining a Drug Premises
• Raven Gray 200 block of Johnson Loop Natchez, La — Maintaining a Drug Premises
• Kendrick D. Moses Alexandria, La — Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl; Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl
• Quenderrick Williams Colfax, La — Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Statement from Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright
“I would like to extend my sincere appreciation to the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Louisiana, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Louisiana State Police, Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Enforcement Unit for their outstanding work and dedication in the recent federal indictments involving individuals trafficking the illegal and extremely dangerous narcotic fentanyl in Natchitoches Parish.
This successful investigation and prosecution are the result of strong partnerships, tireless efforts, and a shared commitment to protecting our community. Fentanyl continues to pose a serious threat to public safety, and these actions send a clear message that drug trafficking and related criminal activity will not be tolerated in our parish.
We remain committed to working alongside our federal, state, and local partners to combat illegal drugs and keep our citizens safe. I am proud of the professionalism and dedication demonstrated by everyone involved in this operation.”
Sheriff Stuart Wright
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office
