LIVINGSTON — A Tickfaw man will spend 13 years in prison on fentanyl charges, local authorities announced Friday.

21st Judicial District Attorney Scott Perrilloux reports that 32-year-old Devin Bess, of Tickfaw, has pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.

The case appeared before Judge Brenda Bedsole Ricks and stems from an April 2024 investigation by the Livingston Parish Sheriff's Office Drug Task Force. Detectives determined that Bess possessed 16.9 grams of pressed fentanyl pills, which is approximately 120 dosing units.

Ricks sentenced Bess to 13 years in prison.

Perrilloux commended the work of detectives and Assistant District Attorney Greg Stahlnecker, Jr., who prosecuted this case.

"Those who sell illicit narcotics prey on the vulnerable, those who are afflicted with addiction," Stahlnecker said. "This is just the latest step to rid the community of these dangerous substances and the individuals who capitalize on them."