New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Drug and Gun Charges
Byron Butler admitted to running a marijuana conspiracy and possessing a machinegun following his 2025 arrest.
Updated on Oct. 22, 2026 in Drug Crime
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A 33-year-old New Orleans man has pleaded guilty to charges related to a marijuana distribution conspiracy and the possession of a machinegun. Byron Butler admitted to the crimes following an August 2025 arrest in which police discovered a converted rifle in his apartment.
Why it matters
The case highlights the intersection of illegal drug distribution and the proliferation of illicitly modified firearms in the city. Prosecutors intend to address the public safety threat posed by high-powered weapons in residential neighborhoods.
Butler faces up to 5 years for the marijuana conspiracy and 10 years for the machinegun possession, with both counts carrying a maximum fine of $250,000. He is currently awaiting his sentencing hearing scheduled for January 19, 2027.
The players
Byron Butler
He is a 33-year-old defendant who admitted to operating a marijuana distribution network in New Orleans.
Jay C. Zainey
He is a federal judge who will preside over the sentencing proceedings for the defendant.
The details
During a search of his apartment on August 26, 2025, police found three firearms and various drug-sales paraphernalia, including a rifle equipped with a machinegun conversion device. Butler admitted to coordinating the operation via text messages and generating $500 to $600 in marijuana sales per day.
Timeline
April 2025: Conspiracy to sell marijuana began.
August 2025: Butler advertised marijuana on social media.
August 26, 2025: Police arrested Butler and searched his apartment.
October 15, 2026: Butler pled guilty to the federal charges.
January 19, 2027: Judge Jay C. Zainey is scheduled to sentence Butler.
Legal Context
This case reflects broader federal efforts to curb the distribution of illicitly modified firearms under the National Firearms Act. Such prosecutions in New Orleans underscore the systemic crackdown on weapon conversion devices frequently found in narcotics investigations.
The discovery of an illegal machinegun in a residential apartment highlights ongoing law enforcement efforts to mitigate weapon-related threats within local neighborhoods. Residents are reminded to report suspicious activity to authorities to assist in maintaining community safety.
The takeaway
This case serves as a reminder that federal authorities aggressively prosecute the possession of converted automatic weapons. Individuals involved in illegal distribution schemes face significant prison time and mandatory fines upon conviction.
Further reading
Find more information on local legal proceedings in the New Orleans Drug Crime section.
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