On Thursday, September 7, a twelve-person Vernon Parish jury convicted Courtland Emanuel King, age 30, of Alexandria, LA. King was found guilty of possession of methamphetamine in excess of 28 grams and attempted possession of cocaine in excess of 28 grams. Louisiana State Police stopped King and a passenger on March 12, 2021, on Highway 8 in Vernon Parish. They were found to be in possession of controlled dangerous substances, in violation of Louisiana law.
The case was heard by 30th Judicial District Judge C. Anthony Eaves. Shortly after the verdict, Vernon Parish Assistant District Attorney Heath Dillon petitioned the Court to consider sentencing King under the Habitual Offender Statute.
King has four prior felony convictions and is facing a minimum of 20 years and up to life in prison without the benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.
Vernon Parish District Attorney Terry Lambright said, “I am very pleased with the outcome of this trial. This defendant has a long criminal record, and the public will be safer by his conviction and incarceration. Public safety is a top priority for me and my office.”
