Troopers Make Drug Arrest

LAKE CHARLES – Recently, narcotics investigators with the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigation office in Lake Charles received information that a parcel believed to contain hydroponic marijuana was shipped from California to an address in Lake Charles. State police investigators, with assistance from the Sulphur Police Department K-9 Unit, determined that the package contained approximately 2 pounds of hydroponic marijuana valued at approximately $12,000.00.

Today, a controlled delivery of the package to an address in Lake Charles took place. The package was accepted and signed for by 31-year-old Melvin Brent LaSalle of Lake Charles. Troopers executed a search warrant at the residence and LaSalle was apprehended with the package. Also arrested was 30-year-old John Hunter Pradia of Lake Charles.

Both subjects were charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana (LRS 40:966) and booked into the Calcasieu Parish Correctional Center.