“Operation Clear Horizon” Leads to Major Drug Busts Across Slidell, 12 Arrested in Federal-Local Narcotics Crackdown

SLIDELL, La. (BuzzReport) — A sweeping multi-agency narcotics operation targeting the distribution of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and other dangerous drugs across Slidell has resulted in 12 arrests, the seizure of multiple firearms, and the confiscation of large quantities of illegal narcotics during a months-long enforcement initiative dubbed “Operation Clear Horizon.”

The Slidell Police Department announced the results of the operation this week, describing it as a coordinated effort between the department’s Narcotics and K9 Divisions, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office.

According to authorities, the operation was conducted throughout March and May 2026 and focused on disrupting narcotics trafficking networks operating within the city and surrounding areas. Investigators specifically targeted the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, MDMA, and other illicit substances that officials say continue to fuel addiction, overdoses, violence, and organized criminal activity throughout the region.

During the course of the investigation, law enforcement agents executed multiple operations that led to the seizure of significant quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl — two of the most dangerous and deadly narcotics currently impacting communities across the Gulf Coast and the nation.

Authorities also recovered psilocybin mushrooms, MDMA, narcotics packaging materials, digital scales commonly associated with drug distribution, and several firearms. Investigators stated that multiple weapons seized during the operation were illegally possessed by convicted felons, escalating the severity of several charges filed in the case.

Officials confirmed that twelve individuals were taken into custody on a range of felony narcotics and weapons charges, including Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substances, Distribution of Controlled Dangerous Substances, and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

Those arrested during “Operation Clear Horizon” were identified as:

• Anthony Devoney, 56, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Michael Chappetta, 43, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Joseph Paillot, 50, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Darren Rohrbacker, 63, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Farrel Dupuy, 49, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Louis McCoy, 53, of Picayune, Mississippi
• Jerry Babineaux, 61, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Bobby Elam, 44, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Michael Tavernit, 55, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Bruce Metz, 28, of Metairie, Louisiana
• Beau Brinson, 36, of Slidell, Louisiana
• Skyla Williams, 35, of Pearl River, Louisiana

Law enforcement officials emphasized that the operation was part of an ongoing strategy to aggressively dismantle narcotics trafficking operations before drugs reach neighborhoods and communities.

Authorities warned that individuals engaged in trafficking fentanyl and methamphetamine remain a top enforcement priority, particularly as overdose deaths linked to synthetic opioids continue to rise nationwide. Officials noted that every quantity of narcotics removed from circulation potentially represents lives saved and violent crimes prevented.

In a strong statement following the arrests, the Slidell Police Department vowed continued aggressive enforcement against individuals profiting from the sale and distribution of illegal drugs.

Police stated that traffickers operating in the community will be identified, investigated, dismantled, and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

The department further stressed that partnerships between local police, federal agencies, prosecutors, and specialized narcotics investigators remain critical in combating the growing threat posed by fentanyl and other synthetic drugs entering local communities.

Authorities have not yet released additional details regarding bond information or future court dates for the suspects arrested during the operation. The investigation remains active, and officials indicated that additional arrests and charges could still be possible as investigators continue examining evidence seized during the operation.