Lafayette Drug Bust Nets $368K in Fentanyl, Other Dangerous Narcotics

LAFAYETTE, La. (KPEL News) - Officers with the Lafayette Police Narcotics Street Team executed a significant drug bust on Monday, recovering over $368,000 in illegal substances and multiple firearms.

The operation began on November 18, 2024, during a traffic stop in the 700 block of Hopkins Street. Police obtained a search warrant for a nearby residence, which led to the discovery of a large cache of narcotics, firearms, and cash.

Get our free mobile app

Seized Items

The following items were recovered during the search:

• Fentanyl: Approximately 777 grams, valued at $310,800
• Methamphetamine: Approximately 72 grams, valued at $14,400
• Marijuana: Approximately 318 grams, valued at $21,600
• Synthetic Marijuana: Approximately 1,080 grams, valued at $21,600
• Crack Cocaine: Approximately 3 grams, valued at $375
• THC Vape Cartridges: 2 units, valued at $200
• Firearms:
  • AR-15 Rifle
  • Ruger .380 caliber handgun
  • Ruger 9mm handgun
  • Taurus 9mm handgun
• Cash: $3,337 in U.S. currency

Suspect Arrested

The suspect, identified as Donovan Duhon, 35, of Lafayette, was arrested and faces multiple felony charges, including:

• Three counts of possession with intent to distribute Schedule I narcotics
• Three counts of possession with intent to distribute Schedule II narcotics
• Four counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon
• Four counts of possession of a firearm with a controlled dangerous substance
• Possession of a firearm by a person convicted of domestic abuse
• Possession of drug paraphernalia
• Additional charges related to drug proceeds, improper display of a license plate, and driving without a license

Duhon was booked into the Lafayette Parish Correctional Center and awaits further legal proceedings.

The Dangers of Fentanyl

The presence of 777 grams of fentanyl in the bust highlights a critical danger to the Lafayette community. Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid, is up to 50 times more potent than heroin and is a leading cause of overdose deaths in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Even a small dose of fentanyl—equivalent to just two milligrams—can be fatal. Its prevalence in illegal drug markets has surged, often appearing as a contaminant in other substances, leading to unintentional overdoses.

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) warns that fentanyl's potency and the growing circulation of counterfeit pills laced with the drug have contributed to the opioid epidemic. More information about fentanyl and its risks can be found on the FDA’s Opioid Information Page.

Authorities urge individuals to remain vigilant and seek immediate medical attention in the event of suspected fentanyl exposure or overdose.

Community Alert

The Lafayette Police Department urges residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “If you see something, say something,” Sgt. Robin Green with the Lafayette Police Department said.

This operation underscores the ongoing efforts of local law enforcement to combat drug-related crime and keep the community safe.

Get our free mobile app