Chalmette man arrested for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine

Following an undercover investigation conducted by the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office Special Investigations Division Narcotics Unit, a Chalmette man was arrested for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Sheriff James Pohlmann said. Cocaine was seized and a Chalmette woman also was arrested in the case.

James Mistretta, 49, of the 800 block of Lyndell Court in Chalmette, was booked Jan. 31 with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine, possession of drug paraphernalia, and turn signal required. He also was booked on two outstanding warrants out of Jefferson Parish.

After agents learned Mistretta was distributing illegal narcotics in St. Bernard Parish, Sheriff Pohlmann said, the investigation led them to a local bar where Mistretta was observed making a hand-to-hand transaction with Veronica Mullet, 37, of the 400 block of W. St. Jean the Baptist in Chalmette.

After Mistretta left the establishment he was seen switching lanes without signaling by hand or lamps which prompted agents to conduct a traffic stop on his vehicle.

During the traffic stop, Mistretta was found to be in possession of one large clear plastic bag, as well as seven smaller clear plastic bags, all of which contained cocaine.

Further investigating by agents led them to Mistretta’s residence where they recovered additional cocaine, a digital scale and more plastic bags.

Mistretta was transported to St. Bernard Parish Prison where he is being held on a $65,600 bond.

Mullet, who was booked with possession of cocaine, is being held on a $10,000 bond.

Sheriff Pohlmann reminds residents to call the Sheriff’s Office narcotics hotline at (504) 271-DOPE or 3673 to report suspected illegal drug activity in St. Bernard Parish. Callers can remain anonymous, and all calls will be acted upon.