Two men from Trinidad and Tobago have been indicted in New Orleans for their alleged roles in an international cocaine distribution conspiracy. Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that Daveanan Deonarine, also known as “Dave,” age 49, and Michael Samsondar, also known as “Don,” “Captain,” or “Fisherman,” age 48, were charged in a two-count indictment unsealed on September 19, 2025.
The charges stem from a bilateral investigation involving the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and several law enforcement agencies in Trinidad and Tobago. The investigation began in 2023 and led to the seizure of about 168 kilograms of cocaine intended for distribution within the United States.
If convicted, both Deonarine and Samsondar face a minimum of ten years imprisonment and could receive up to life imprisonment. Each count carries a potential fine of up to $10 million and at least five years of supervised release after any prison term. Both defendants would also be required to pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee per count if found guilty.
Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson stated: “the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.”
The case was investigated by the DEA, Port of Spain Country Office, Transnational Organized Crime Unit, Strategic Services Agency, and Special Investigative Unit of the Trinidad and Tobago Police Services. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lynn E. Schiffman and André Jones are prosecuting the case for the Narcotics Unit.
