A Livingston Parish jury has convicted a Walker man on drug charges, leading to a lengthy prison sentence due to his status as a habitual offender. The case involved a large amount of methamphetamine and evidence that investigators say showed ongoing drug distribution in the area.
Walker Man Convicted in Livingston Parish Drug Case
District Attorney Scott Perrilloux announced that a Livingston Parish jury convicted 41-year-old Albert Watson Jr. of Walker, Louisiana for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The verdict was delivered quickly, with jurors taking less than one hour to reach a decision during the one-day trial held in Livingston Parish.
The case was heard in the 21st Judicial District Court, where Judge Brenda Bedsole Ricks presided over the proceedings.
Investigation Began in March 2025
The charges against Watson stem from a March 2025 investigation conducted in Livingston Parish.
Authorities said that when Watson was arrested, investigators discovered several items linked to drug distribution.
According to prosecutors, officers found:
- A large quantity of methamphetamine
- Dozens of plastic baggies used for packaging drugs
- A scale commonly used for weighing narcotics
Investigators also seized a cellphone that allegedly contained evidence of multiple drug transactions.
Prosecutors told the court the phone included audio recordings and messages in which Watson reportedly discussed the types of narcotics he sold, the quantities, and the prices involved.
Witnesses and Experts Testified During Trial
During the trial, the jury heard testimony from eyewitnesses and two expert witnesses presented by the prosecution.
The evidence and testimony helped prosecutors outline how the drugs were allegedly being distributed and the scale of the activity.
Officials said the jury reviewed the evidence before reaching their verdict in under an hour.
Habitual Offender Status Led to 75-Year Sentence
Because of Watson’s extensive criminal history, he was classified as a habitual offender, which significantly increased the penalty.
Prosecutors said his past convictions include:
- Simple robbery
- Assault by drive-by shooting
- Possession with intent to distribute heroin
- Possession of oxycodone
- Possession of heroin
- Possession of lisdexamfetamine
- Sale of a legend drug
Due to this record, Watson was sentenced to 75 years in prison following his conviction.
Prosecutors Highlight Impact of Illegal Drugs
Assistant District Attorney Greg Stahlnecker Jr., who prosecuted the case, said illegal narcotics continue to have a serious impact on the community.
According to Stahlnecker, the district attorney’s office works aggressively to prosecute individuals who distribute drugs while also encouraging those struggling with addiction to seek help.
Officials also credited teamwork between the District Attorney’s Office, the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for helping build the case.
