In late April 2026, agents with the Rapides Area Drug Enforcement (RADE) Unit began receiving multiple community complaints regarding alleged narcotics activity at a residence in the 1700 block of Thornton Court in Alexandria.
According to RADE, agents were already familiar with the address due to multiple prior investigations and search warrants executed there in recent years. Authorities said previous investigations connected to the residence resulted in the seizure of more than 8 pounds of fentanyl, more than 4 pounds of methamphetamine, marijuana, firearms, and drug paraphernalia. Officials also noted that Craig Brown, previously arrested in connection with the residence, is currently serving time for drug trafficking offenses.
Agents launched an investigation into the latest complaints and identified Diante Brown as the primary suspect through surveillance and investigative efforts. Authorities obtained an arrest warrant charging Brown with distribution of fentanyl, along with a search warrant for the residence at 1735 Thornton Court.
On May 20, 2026, RADE agents, assisted by the Alexandria Police Department Special Response Team, executed the search warrant. Brown was taken into custody without incident.
During the search, agents reportedly discovered 11 plastic bags containing suspected fentanyl, along with digital scales and other drug paraphernalia. Authorities said the suspected fentanyl weighed approximately 1.5 pounds. Investigators also seized more than $2,000 in U.S. currency.
Brown was arrested and booked into the Rapides Parish Detention Center-1 on charges including possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of drug paraphernalia, and a probation violation. Authorities said civil asset forfeiture paperwork was issued for the seized cash.
At the time of the release, Brown remained in custody on a $1,000,500 bond.
Sheriff Mark Wood said investigators will continue pursuing community complaints and working to combat narcotics trafficking in Central Louisiana. Authorities also stated the investigation remains ongoing and additional arrests are possible.
The RADE Unit is a multi-jurisdictional task force comprised of local, parish, state, and federal law enforcement agencies across Central Louisiana.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law or administrative proceeding.