Hammond Woman Arrested for Medicaid Fraud ($72,442.58)

Attorney General Liz Murrill's Louisiana Bureau of Investigation agents arrested 56-year-old Shuna Singleton, of Carters Lane in Hammond, for defrauding the Medicaid program of approximately $72,442.58.

After receiving a referral from the Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regarding Singleton, Special Agents investigated and determined that Singleton repeatedly reported changes in household composition after being denied Medicaid benefits due to her husband's income. Records obtained during the investigation showed that when her husband's income was considered, Singleton was determined to be ineligible for benefits. Subsequent applications and renewals reflected that her husband was no longer reported as a household member, resulting in Medicaid eligibility and continued benefits.

LDH determined that had Singleton accurately reported her household composition and total household income, she would not have been eligible to receive Medicaid benefits from July 1, 2019, through July 31, 2025. As a result, Singleton unlawfully received Medicaid benefits totaling approximately $72,442.58.

Special Agents determined that Singleton knowingly concealed and failed to disclose material information regarding her marital status, household composition, and household income that affected her eligibility for Medicaid benefits administered by LDH. These actions resulted in violations of LRS 14:70.9, Government Benefit Fraud, and LRS 14:133, Filing or Maintaining False Public Records.

LBI agents subsequently obtained arrest warrants issued by the 19th Judicial District Court charging Singleton with Government Benefit Fraud (2 counts) and Filing or Maintaining False Public Records (2 counts).

"Government benefits are only for those who qualify for them. If you cheat the system, my office will hold you accountable," said Attorney General Liz Murrill.

On June 16, 2026, Singleton surrendered to LBI agents at the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison and was booked accordingly. Singleton's bond information is unknown at this time.

The investigation remains ongoing.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Storm Arthur Has Formed/Impacts Coming

Hakheim Young Found Guilty of Murder in Bogalusa HS Shooting

District Attorney J. Collin Sims announces that a Washington Parish jury has returned a guilty verdict  against 19-year-old Hakheim Young of Bogalusa, Louisiana, for his role in the January 2024 shooting that claimed the life of a 14-year-old boy. Following a seven-day trial held before the Honorable Judge John A. Keller, Young was found guilty on all counts: one count of Second Degree Murder and two counts of Attempted Second Degree Murder

The conviction stems from an incident on January 11, 2024, in the parking lot of Bogalusa High School during a basketball game. Evidence presented at trial showed that the victim and two friends were fired upon after entering an unlocked vehicle to steal from it. Young, alongside co-defendant Keldric Harry - who was convicted and sentenced to life in prison earlier this year - used an automatic weapon to unleash a "death sentence" on a child over a minor property crime. One of the surviving victims was shot in the leg during the shooting.

During closing arguments, Assistant District Attorney Gary Tromblay emphasized the extreme nature of the violence.

"It's a cold, cruel world out there - and it's like that because of people like the defendant," Tromblay told the jury. "A 14-year-old boy was gunned down, shot in the back...he didn't have a chance. He bled to death. His body riddled with bullets. He was killed doing something he shouldn't be doing...pulled on the wrong car door…but he didn't deserve a death sentence."

In the state's closing rebuttal, Assistant District Attorney Jay Adair dismantled the defense's strategy, urging the jury to focus entirely on the evidence presented throughout the week.

"Everything you just heard was a distraction," Adair stated, referring to the defense's closing arguments. "When you can't argue anything, you argue everything. Come back behind the curtain with me - I want you to have facts. We know that [the victim] was viciously shot and killed...9 bullets - 8 of them in the back. My hope and prayer is that he closed his eyes and woke up in heaven. He made a poor choice and got a death sentence for it."

District Attorney Collin Sims praised the trial's outcome and re-emphasized his office's unwavering stance against violent crime in the community. "With this second conviction, the message from Washington Parish is absolute: violent criminals who terrorize our communities and devalue human life will be held fully accountable," DA Sims stated. "A 14-year-old child lost his life to automatic weapon fire over an unlocked car door. No family should have to endure this devastating pain. I commend our prosecution team and our law enforcement partners for their relentless pursuit of justice. We will continue to meet senseless violence with the full weight of the law."

The investigation was led by the Bogalusa Police Department with assistance from surrounding agencies, utilizing camera footage, forensic evidence, and witness statements to secure the convictions of both individuals responsible for the homicide.

The Office of the District Attorney extends its deepest gratitude to the citizens of the Washington Parish jury for their service during the rigorous seven-day trial, as well as to the law enforcement investigators who ensured a thorough presentation of the facts.

Hakheim Young will remain in custody pending his formal sentencing before Judge Keller, set for July 27, 2026. Young faces life imprisonment.

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

You Can Prune and Fertilize Blueberries After Harvest + Pruning Demo Announcement

In Louisiana, we have a long enough growing season that we can prune blueberry plants shortly after harvest and get regrowth and flower bud development on the new growth. On the other hand, if you wait until wintertime to reduce bush height, you’ll likely be cutting off already-developed flower buds that could have produced fruit.

As a rule of thumb, prune blueberries for height as soon as practical after you finish harvesting and no later than the end of July.

While it’s not absolutely necessary to prune blueberry plants every year, reducing their height can make them easier to pick. The amount of new growth that the plants put on after they’re pruned will depend on their vigor and the fertility of the soil, but as a general guideline, cut them to about one foot lower than the maximum height at which you want to pick berries next year.

Besides reducing plant height for ease of picking, the other major step to pruning mature rabbiteye blueberry plants is to remove one to three of the oldest canes each year. This allows more light into the bush so that fruit isn’t just produced on the outside of the canopy. It also encourages plants to grow new canes from the base. We want blueberry plants to produce new canes, since older growth tends to become less fruitful over time.

You can remove several old canes either after harvest or during the winter, when plants are dormant. Look for canes that are roughly one inch or more in diameter at the base and cut them close to the ground. The amount of wood cut out each year should be roughly 10 to 20% of the total wood present.

After harvest is also a good time to make the final fertilizer application of the season. (The first one can be made in the late winter or early spring, around the time the plants start to grow.) For a mature blueberry bush, one option is to use 1 cup 8-8-8 per plant or, if you used a “complete” fertilizer like 8-8-8 or 13-13-13 earlier this year, one-third of a cup of 33-0-0 (urea-ammonium sulfate) or ammonium sulfate. Rates for younger plants should be lower. Spread fertilizer out under and around the canopies.

On Wednesday, July 8, at 9 AM, we’ll have a blueberry pruning demonstration at the Hammond Research Station (21549 Old Covington Hwy., Hammond). If weather doesn’t allow us to be outside, I’ll do a presentation indoors.

Let me know if you have questions.

Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages

Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 15-16, 2026

Cordaro Levi (age 38 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Stop Signs and Yield
Signs Violations, Improper Lane Usage, Driving Under Suspension, Resisting an Officer/Simple Assault, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Obstruction of  Justice/Damage/Conceal/Vandalism, and Attempted Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Russell Dexter (age 64 with LA address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Cocaine and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Shakira Cooley (age 23 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 and Theft Less Than 1000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Latonya Ross (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault Upon a Dating Partner by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Jermaine Brown (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Battery, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), and Fugitive by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Potential Tropical Cyclone One (as of 7:00 AM on June 17, 2026) is located about 220 miles southwest of Lake Charles, LA. with 30 MPH maximum sustained winds. The system is moving northeastward at 7 MPH along the middle Texas coast and is expected to cause life-threatening flooding across portions of the southeastern United States. The system may briefly become a Tropical Storm this afternoon. A Tropical Storm Warning is in effect for Sabine Pass to Morgan City. On the forecast track, the low pressure area should move inland over southwestern Louisiana by tonight. Weakening is anticipated once the low moves inland, and it could dissipate by tonight or early Thursday.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 85. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tonight   A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Low around 74. Breezy, with a south wind 10 to 15 mph increasing to 20 to 25 mph. New rainfall amounts between 2 and 3 inches possible.

Thursday   A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 87. Southwest wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. New rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.

Thursday Night   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 76. South wind around 5 mph.

Juneteenth   A 80 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 91. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning. 

Friday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.

Franklinton Woman Indicted for Illegal Voting

Denise Nataly Migliore, age 51 and a resident of Franklinton, Louisiana, originally from Sydney, Australia, was charged on June 11, 2026 in a four-count indictment for making false statements in order to register to vote, and illegal voting in an election, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1015(f) and Title 52, United States Code, Section 20511(2)(B), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. 

According to the indictment, on or about October 6, 2022, and on or about October 22, 2024, Migliore, at the time a legal permanent resident, knowingly made false claims to U.S. citizenship in order to register to vote in in a Federal election. On or about November 8, 2022, and November 5, 2024, Migliore cast a ballot, which was obtained by falsely certifying that she was a U.S. citizen and eligible to vote, when, in fact, she was not eligible to vote because she was not a citizen of the United States.

If convicted, Migliore faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years in prison, followed by three (3) years of supervised release. Migliore also faces a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. 

U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of Homeland Security Investigations and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this case. Special Assistant United States Attorney Rick Veters of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill also commented, "Let me be clear: Louisiana's elections are for U.S. citizens only. If you illegally register to vote or illegally vote in Louisiana, you will be prosecuted. We will continue to protect the integrity of Louisiana's elections. Great work by U.S. Attorney David Courcelle's team and all our federal partners."

Current Road Closures in Washington Parish

Due to ongoing heavy rainfall, Washington Parish Government Road Crews are continuing to evaluateroadway conditions across the parish.  The following road closures are currently (as of about 3:30 PM)  in effect: WPG will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as necessary.  Residents are encouraged to remain weather aware and follow all road closure and safety advisories. 

Buford Creel 

TC Brumfield

RF Ball 

James Creel

Wilton Thomas

O C Miller Road

Frank Dillon Road

Jamieson Creek Road

R W Bennett

W O Turnage

Hoyt Stafford

Erwin Road

Burch Road

Old Columbia Road

Fairgrounds Road (parish)

Old Lake Road

Nobles Cemetery 

J Warren Road

Matthew Thomas

Max Brumfield

Cleve Kennedy 

DC Crain

Perry Erwin

Obituary

Eva Jenkins

July 9, 1929 - June 16, 2026

Obituary

Ione Frances Donovan Neely

October 1, 1938 - June 13, 2026

Deputy Terminated, Others Disciplined After Escape in Amite

As additional details have been determined in the investigation into an inmate escaping the Tangipahoa Parish courthouse Monday (June 15, 2026), Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Gerald Sticker has terminated one deputy and suspended two senior-level employees.

Click here for the previous story

At this time, the investigation has revealed that following Donnie Stevenson’s appearance in court, he was grouped with six other inmates to be escorted out of the courthouse by one deputy. When the group exited the back door to load up into the transport van, Stevenson remained by the back door. The transport deputy escorting the group did not conduct an appropriate headcount when loading the van and proceeded to drive out of the loading dock area without Stevenson. It was determined that Stevenson waited at the back door until the van was gone and then climbed over the loading dock gate.

In addition, it was determined that last week jail staff and leadership raised awareness about Stevenson’s upcoming hearing and requested specialized transport for him to two levels of upper-chain-of-command personnel. The request was not followed through by either of those administrators.

The jail transport deputy placed on administrative leave following Monday’s incident has subsequently been fired and, for now, the two senior-level supervisors have been suspended for the remainder of this week.

A revision to courthouse staffing assignments is currently underway, a new protocol for high-risk inmates is already in effect, new restraints for high-risk inmates are being acquired and the Tangipahoa Parish government is actively making alterations to the loading dock gate.

This investigation continues with the possibility of additional employee disciplinary actions and/or terminations.

Sand & Bags in Washington Parish

Bring Your Own Shovel

City of Bogalusa Residents 

• - 06/16 – 06/18, 7:00am – 2:00pm
• - City Public Works Yard, 202 Memphis Ave., Bogalusa, LA
• - 10 per citizen, ID required

Town of Franklinton Residents

• - Public Works Building, 1108 Lenora St., Franklinton, LA

For All Residents Located Outside of City Limits

• - Washington Parish Fire District #7, 17380 Bill Booty Rd., Bogalusa, LA
• - Washington Parish Fire District #5, 30162 Highway 21 N., Angie, LA
• - WPG Public Works Location #3, 801 Pearl St., Franklinton, LA at bottom of hill on backside of metal building
• - 06/16 till 4:00pm
• - 06/17 – 06/18, 9:00am – 3:00pm 

Obituary

Janet Sue Blackwell Brown

December 10, 1957 - June 11, 2026

Obituary

Helen Sarah Freeman

September 28, 1932 - June 7, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 15, 2026

Howard Willis (age 74) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Taking Contraband To and From a Penal Institution by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Laban Crandle (age 32) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Fight From Officer, No Tag Displayed, Failure to Stop/Yield, and Possession of Schedule I by the Covington Police Department.

Jermaine Turner (age 36) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Use, Aggravated Flight From Officer, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Driver Must Be Licensed, Criminal Sanctions for Operating Motor Vehicle
Not Covered, Possession of Schedule I, Resisting an Officer, and Hit and Run by the Louisiana State Police.

Willis Ratcliff (age 51) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, and Battery of a Police Officer/Injury/Medical Attention by the Covington Police Department.

Joshua Fellon (age 31) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Anthony Jennings (age 25) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

John Thomas (age 48) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Covington Police Department.

Miguel Ahumada (age 20) was booked on the charges of Principle to Commission of Crime (2 counts), Misdemeanor Sexual Battery, and Sexual Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

John Seibel (age 46) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Possession of Schedule I, and Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.

Krystal Malone (age 39) was booked on the chsrges of Possession of Schedule II and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.

Reece Thomas (age 39) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.

Lionel Taylor (age 40) was booked on the charges of DWI (4th or Subsequent Offense), Open Container in Motor Vehicle, and Simple Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce by the Louisiana State Police.

Bobby Elam (age 44) was booked on charges not listed by Agency not listed.

Lindsey Daniels (age 53) was booked on the charges of Attempt and Conspiracy and Distribution With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS Over 28 Grams by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Lee Cox (age 40) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court by Agency not listed.

Jessica Eisworth (age not listed) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Justin Hunt (age 37) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Drug Paraphernalia, and Improper Turn by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Brittany Simmons (age 31) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jason Polk (age 51) was booked on the charges of Theft, Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, and Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.

April Hart (age 49) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (4 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Madison Bass (age 20) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery Committed With Dangerous Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Dawn Fitzmorris (age 54) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Covington Police Department.

Matthew Ballier (age 40) was booked on the charges of No Brake Lights/No Turn Signals, Aggravated Flight From Officer, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jonathan Matthews (age 26) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Washington Parish President Ryan Seal on Heavy Rainfall Potential

Washington Parish President Ryan Seal encourages all residents to ensure that they and their families have an emergency plan in place and to closely monitor local news outlets, the Washington Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness Facebook page, and the Washington Parish Government Facebook page for updates to the forecast and any recommendations that may be issued.

Do not wait until the last minute to gather emergency supplies. Residents can download a preparedness kit checklist at: https://www.ready.gov/kit.

According to this morning's forecast, the system could bring significant rainfall to our area, with widespread totals of 4 - 6 inches expected and a reasonable worst-case scenario of 10 - 15 inches possible through 7:00 a.m. Saturday, June 20. Now is a good time to clear gutters, ditches, and downspouts to help ensure proper drainage around your home.

As a precaution, self-service sandbag locations will be opened for parish residents living in low-lying and flood-prone areas. Additional information on locations and operating hours will be announced separately.

“We all have a role to play in helping our community prepare,” said President Seal. "Please check on elderly, disabled, and vulnerable neighbors to make sure they have the resources they need to prepare. A simple phone call or visit can make a big difference.”

Residents are also reminded to never drive around barricades or walk through floodwaters. Just six inches of moving water can knock a person off their feet, and floodwaters may conceal dangerous hazards. Use extra caution when traveling at night, as flooded roadways can be difficult to see.

Washington Parish Government and the Office of Emergency Preparedness will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as additional information becomes available.

Bogalusa City Council Agenda for June 16, 2026

The Bogalusa City Council will meet Tuesday (June 16, 2026) evening at 5:30 PM and on the Agenda are the following:

INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES: 

• AN ORDINANCE requiring water and sewer accounts for multi-unit properties to be maintained in the name of the property owner unless each unit is individually metered 

• AN ORDINANCE authorizing the Fiscal Administrator to enter into a Professional Service Agreement with Geaux Techie to provide full IT Services for the City of Bogalusa 

Click here for the full packet and more information on the Agenda

The Council will also hear Administrative Remarks and Council Remarks before adjourning 

Next Council Meeting will be held on July 7, 2026. 

Obituary

Marvin A. Jefferson, Sr.

August 29, 1941 — June 8, 2026

Obituary

Emery Mae Knight

September 5, 1954 – June 14, 2026

LSP Troop L Welcomes New Troopers

After 23 weeks of comprehensive mental, physical, and academic training, five Troopers assigned to Troop L in Mandeville were among the 43 members of Cadet Class 108 who graduated from the Louisiana State Police Training Academy on Friday (June 12, 2026) . Welcomed to Troop L were Tpr. Olivia Collins, Tpr. Alexander Kitch, Tpr. Blake Pellegrin, Tpr. Cody Pruitt, and Tpr. John Thornhill.

Troop L encompasses the parishes of St. Tammany, Washington, Tangipahoa, and St. Helena. 

Folsom Man Charged With Arson and Insurance Fraud

Jason Courtney , age 37 and of Folsom, was arrested June 9, 2026 by investigators with the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) following an investigation into an intentionally set fire in the 79000 block of Booth Road in Folsom. 

On January 10, 2026, at approximately 9:32 a.m., St. Tammany Fire Department District 5 responded to a house fire. After extinguishing the blaze, the department requested assistance from the SFM to conduct an origin and cause investigation. Following an examination of the scene and additional investigative work, SFM investigators determined the fire had been intentionally set.

Courtney has been charged with Arson with Intent to Defraud (La. RS 14:53) and Insurance Fraud (La. RS 22:1924),

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

This remains an active investigation, and no further details are being released at this time.

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office reminds the public that anyone with information regarding fire-related crimes is encouraged to submit an anonymous tip by visiting lasfm.org and selecting the “Arson Fires” icon.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today   A 100 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog. High near 79. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.

Tonight   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5am. Patchy fog before 8pm. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Wednesday   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 86. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Wednesday Night   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. 

Thursday   A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 86. South wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. 

Thursday Night   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind 5 to 10 mph. 

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure located inland over south Texas is forecast to move northeastward along the Texas coast and could emerge over the northwestern Gulf of America later today or tonight. Environmental conditions are expected to be marginally conducive for the formation of a short-lived tropical storm late today or on Wednesday, especially if the system moves far enough offshore.

Interests across southern and eastern Texas and portions of Louisiana and Mississippi should prepare for periods of intense rainfall over the next several days which could produce  idespread, life-threatening flash, urban, and river flooding.  Gusty winds and coastal flooding are also possible along portions of the northwestern Gulf Coast, and Tropical Storm Watches or Warnings could be required later today. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...60 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.

Amite Jail Inmate Escapes AGAIN - Back in Custody AGAIN

A Tangipahoa Parish Jail inmate, 19-year-old Donnie Stevenson,  has been rebooked on a new charge of Simple Escape, after escaping from the Tangipahoa Parish courthouse Monday (June 15, 2026)morning.

Around 10:20 a.m., a barefoot, shackled inmate in an orange jumpsuit, confirmed quickly as Stevenson, was seen climbing over the loading dock gate at the back of the parish courthouse on Bay Street in Amite. TPSO deputies and Amite Police immediately began a search of the area. After a 5-minute track by TPSO K-9 Gunner, Stevenson was found hiding under a truck one block from the courthouse near Duncan Avenue and Mulberry Street, concluding the 30-minute search effort.

Stevenson, who is awaiting trial for 1st Degree Rape, Aggravated Kidnapping, Armed Robbery and Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, has been housed at Angola since December when he briefly escaped the courthouse under similar circumstances. He will be transported back to Angola following processing for this incident. Click here for that story

At this time, one deputy has been placed on administrative leave as the investigation into this incident continues. Additionally, the TPSO is actively working with parish government to increase the security features of the courthouse loading dock area.

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 14, 2026

Cameron Tucker (age 25) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I, Drug Paraphernalia,
Modified Exhaust, Cracked Windshield, Open Container in Vehicle, Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear, and Contempt of Court by the Covington Police Department.

Michael Salles (age 65) was booked on the charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Tracey Lambert (age 43) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State
Police.

Jose Garcia (age 21) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Covington Police Department.

Edward Tillman (age 43) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Careless Operation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Nicole Cooper (age 44) was booked on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Charles Sadler (age 31) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.

Vaughn Wardsworth (age 26) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Covington Police Department.

Karl Landry (age 35) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Use, Driving Under Suspension, Contributing to the Delinquency, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.

Jaquan Lee (age 26) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, General Speed Law, Improper Lane Use, Drug Paraphernalia, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Keenan Wallace (age 27) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.

Truman Guichard (age 55) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Dangerous Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Raymond Bayona (age 36) was booked on the charges of Flight From Officer, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.

Dawn Davis (age 46) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Aggravated Assault by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Lucas Wolfe (age 51) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness and Simple Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kevin Blackburn (age 38) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, General Speed Law, and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kevin Smith (age 38) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Thomas B. "Ace" Magee

June 23, 1947 — June 13, 2026

Obituary

Lacey Renee Seal

October 15, 2025 - June 11, 2026

Sandbags in St. Tammany Parish

The National Weather Service are predicting 4-6 inches of rainfall through this Friday, June 19, 2026. Out
of an abundance of caution, self-service sandbag locations will be available in the following areas in St. Tammany Parish starting at 9 a.m.:

• Airport Road Public Works Barn (34783 Grantham College Drive, Slidell)

• St. Tammany Parish Government Complex (21410 Koop Drive, Mandeville)

• St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds (1301 N. Florida Street, Covington)

Please bring your own shovel. Assistance to those in need is available by calling (985) 898-2557. 

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Cosmos Provides a Splash of Color

Louisiana Master Gardener volunteers maintain the beds in front of the LSU AgCenter office in Amite. They’ve been beautiful lately, with orange, pink, red, and blue flowers, in addition to the purple flowers of the ‘Shoal Creek’ chaste trees in front of them. One flower that’s present in abundance is yellow cosmos, which reseeded itself from last year’s plants.

I generally favor perennials, because I like plants that provide multiple years of returns on my planting investment. However, the beauty provided by annual flowers like cosmos is undeniable. Furthermore, cosmos, like their zinnia relatives, often reseed themselves. They also support pollinators such as bees and butterflies and can be used as cut flowers, though their vase life is somewhat short.

Cosmos are in the aster family with sunflowers, black-eyed susans, zinnias, and many other beloved flowers. Two kinds are commonly grown.

Yellow cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus) flowers tend, as one might expect, to be yellow or orange, while those of garden cosmos or Mexican aster (C. bipinnatus) are often pink, red, or white. However, there is some crossover in flower colors, and the shapes of the leaves are probably a more reliable way to distinguish between the two species. Yellow cosmos leaves remind me of ragweed. Garden cosmos foliage has a more delicate, lacy appearance.

Both species are native to Mexico, with the native range of yellow cosmos extending into Central America.

Cosmos can be seeded or transplanted in spring, after the last frost. If sowing seeds, wait until soil temperatures have reached about 65 degrees F or greater. Plant on a well-drained site with full to partial sun exposure.

Let me know if you have questions.

Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages

Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).

Washington Parish Council Agenda for June 15, 2026

The Washington Parish Council will meet at 5:30 PM on June 15, 2026 upstairs in Courtroom 1 at the Courthouse in Franklinton. The meeting will  be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv  On the Agenda are the following:

Sonnet Ireland: Washington Parish Library

Ashley Thomas and Tab Seals: Washington Parish Watermelon Festival

ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/DISCUSSION ITEMS

• Ordinance No. 26-789: Introduce an Ordinance Establishing "No-Thru Truck Routes" on Certain Parish Roads as per Ordinance No. 13-577.

• Resolution No. 26-1499: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Acquisition of Surplus Property Through the Louisiana Property Assistance Agency Preference Buyers Program for Emergency Response and Public Safety Purposes.

• Resolution No. 26-1500: Adopt a Resolution Selecting the Official Journal for Washington Parish Government for the Period of July 1, 2026 — June 30, 2027.

• Resolution No. 26-1501: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Parish President to Execute a Contract with KTS Construction, LLC for the Angie Library Renovation Project.

• Resolution No. 26-1502: Adopt a Resolution to Appoint Abigail Kemp to the Washington Parish Library Board of Control.

• Resolution No. 26-1503: Adopt a Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the 22nd Judicial District Children and Youth Planning Board Representing Washington Parish.

• Resolution No. 26-1504: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Parish President to Execute an  Engagement Letter with Taylor Porter

Following Public Participation, the Council will hear reports from the Parish President and his staff before adjourning 

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 13-14, 2026

Kristy Wilkerson (age 30) with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Damage to Property, Aggravated Assault, Negligent Injuring, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

Daniel Watson (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Mirandol Collins (age 55 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language and Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Being Forbidden by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

Johnathan Martin (age 50 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Contempt of Court, and Aggravated Domestic Abuse Assault/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today   A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 3pm. Patchy fog before 8am. High near 84. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tonight   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Cloudy, with a low around 72. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tuesday   A 100 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 79. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Tuesday Night   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm. 

Wednesday   A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 87. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 76. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tropical Disturbances Today

The trough of low pressure located over northeastern Mexico is not expected to develop during the next day or so while the trough remains inland and drifts generally northward over northeastern Mexico and southern Texas. The system is then forecast to move northeastward and could re-emerge over the northwestern Gulf of America late Tuesday or Wednesday, where environmental conditions may support some development around midweek. Regardless of tropical cyclone formation, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and gusty winds are possible across portions of eastern and southern Texas and Louisiana this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Obituary

Sedgie "Bo" Wilkes

February 17, 1969 - June 13, 2026

Obituary

Minnie Pearl Brooks Lilly

July 12, 1941 - June 12, 2026

Obituary

Ella Faye Day

November 5, 1937 - June 13, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 13, 2026

Carmel Veron (age 66) was booked on the charges of DWI and Maximum Speed Limit by the Louisiana State Police.

Tedm Olivier (age 22) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Maximum Speed Limit, Following Too Close, and Driving While Under Suspension by the Louisiana State Police.

Carter Hurley (age 20) was booked on the charges of Underage DWI, Improper Lane Use, and No Taillights by the Louisiana State Police.

Jason Boggs (age 40) was booked on the charges of Operating Vehicle While Intoxicated and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Megan Vaughan (age 43) was booked on the charges of Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Being Forbidden, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Battery of a Police Officer, Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee, and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Slidell Police Department.

Payton Butler (age 26) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Latifah Nobles (age 36) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Fugitive (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Michael Weigart (age 59) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Open Container in Vehicle by the Louisiana State Police.

Duncan Murray (age 59) was booked on the charges of Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Being Forbidden and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Mandeville Police Department.

Kaiden Barrios (age 18) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Penalty for Distribution or Possession With Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Sale/Possession of Tobacco by Person Under 18 YOA by the Covington Police Department.

Skyler Jenkins (age 36) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole.

Yolanda Haynes (age 43) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.

Brett Brady (age 53) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Michael Surgi (age 60) was booked on the charge of Misuse of 911 Enhanced Emergency Phone System by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Clinton Maddox (age 33) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Covington Police Department.

Terri Puckett (age 44) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today   Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Monday   A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 2pm. Patchy fog before 8am. High near 86. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Monday Night   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind. 

Tuesday   A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 80. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. 

Tuesday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Multiple Rounds of Rain Monday - Thursday

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure located over eastern Mexico is producing disorganized shower and thunderstorm activity. Development is not expected during the next day or so while the low remains inland over northeastern Mexico or southern Texas during the next day or so. The system could then re-emerge over the northwestern Gulf of America around midweek while interacting with a frontal boundary, but conditions there are expected to be only marginally conducive for development. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 12, 2026

Christopher Fendley (age 51) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Taylie Fairchild (age 23) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Antoine Jackson (age 44) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial District Court.

Laurie Purcella (age 52) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.

Jermaine Ross (age 40) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule
IV by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Jordan Olmstead (age 28) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Walter Lewis (age 29) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapons, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, and Possession of Schedule IV by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Andrew Warren (age 26) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (4 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Leann Simon (age 40) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Cruelty to Juveniles by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Jamie Constantino (age 48) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.

Anthony Genaro (age 21) was booked on the charges of Underage DWI and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Byron Brown (age 65) was booked on the charges of Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles/Display of Plate, No Insurance, Driving Under Suspension, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Dominique Partman (age 23) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Simple Assault and Simple Battery by the Covington Police Department.

William Lawton (age 52) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Brandon Every (age 38) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Perry Taylor (age 64) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Waynika Hampton (age 40) was booked on the charges of Theft and Contributing to the Delinquency by the Mandeville Police Department.

James Stevens (age 46) was booked on the charges of Injuring Public Records and Contempt of Court by the Slidell Police Department.

Preston Butler (age 24) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, and Theft Less Than 1000 by the Slidell Police Department.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 12, 2026

Christopher Magee (age 21 with Columbia, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Speeding 31-40 Over Limit, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, and No Proof of Insurance by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $850.00.

Allen Joseph Dupre (age 42 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm and Home Invasion With Force or Violence by the Louisiana State Police. Bond was set at $250000.00.

Elaina Dixon (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3 counts), Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II, and Driving Under Suspension by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Anthony Cornish (age 27 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Operation, and No Drivers License by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure just offshore of eastern Mexico continues to produce some shower and thunderstorm activity.  While this system has become better organized since yesterday, marginal environmental conditions will probably prevent significant development before the low moves inland over eastern Mexico by Sunday. The system could re-emerge over the northwestern Gulf on Tuesday or Wednesday while interacting with a frontal boundary, but conditions there are also expected to be only marginally conducive for development. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today   Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 75. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Sunday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 4pm and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Monday   A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 85. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. 

Monday Night   A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 71. Calm wind.

Obituary

Glenda Faye Stewart

September 13, 1946 - June 9, 2026

WPSO Off Duty Officer Involved in Shooting - Deputy Terminated

UPDATE: Allen Joseph Dupre (aka Jay Dupre), age 42 with a Franklinton, La. address, was booked into the Washington Parish Jail today (June 12, 2026) on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm and Home Invasion With Force or Violence by the Louisiana State Police. Bond was set at $250000.00. 

Statement From Sheriff Jason Smith

On June 12, 2026 at approximately 1:36 a.m., the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office received a 911 call reporting gunshots on Bud Slocum Road in Franklinton. Responding deputies learned that Lieutenant Jay Dupre of our Criminal Patrol Division was among those involved. Lieutenant Dupre was off duty, out of uniform, and not operating an office vehicle at the time. No one was shot or injured.

Given the serious nature of the allegations, I requested that the Louisiana State Police conduct an independent criminal investigation. After reviewing the initial facts, I terminated Lieutenant Dupre's employment with the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office.

Deputies must conduct themselves professionally and lawfully, on duty and off. That standard does not bend for rank or years of service. 

Dupre served this office for 15 years, and that service was real. His conduct in this matter fell below the standard I expect, and I acted on it.

The criminal investigation is ongoing. All further questions should be directed to the Louisiana State Police, who will issue any additional comments.

Jason Smith

Washington Parish Sheriff

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 11, 2026

Lamont Tillison (age 52) was booked on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

David Sylvester (age 50) was booked on the charges of No Tag Displayed, Open Container in Motor Vehicle, No Taillights, Driving Under Suspension, Switched Plates, Criminal Sanctions for Operating Motor Vehicle Not Covered, Novelty or Unofficial Credentials Prohibited, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, and Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon by the Slidell Police Department.

Kelly Jenkins (age 61) was booked on
the charges of Bank Fraud, Access Device Fraud, and Theft by the Slidell Police Department.

Ammiel Carthen (age 18) was booked on the charge of Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms by the Slidell Police Department.

Kaden Plessala (age 18) was booked on the charge of Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms by the Slidell Police Department.

Melanie Pettingill (age 51) was booked on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Daniel Bedford (age 42) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Hope Obrien (age 45) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Brad Lato (age 41) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Bowen McKathan (age 45) was booked on the charges of Violation of Protection Order (3 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Willie Miller (age 47) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Shawn Bagert (age 40) was booked on the charges of Fugitive (2 counts) by the Covington Police Department.

Christopher Williams (age 21) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile and Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor by Agency not listed.

Terrance Washington (age 44) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond (3 counts) and Contempt of Court by Bondsman.

Donald Lefevre (age 48) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.

Rashard Dobbins (age 48) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Criminal Damage by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Turquoise Gillum (age 45) was booked on the charge of Providing False Information to Law Enforcement by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Abdul Rasheed (age 20) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Self Mutilation by Prisoner, and Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee by the Slidell Police Department.

Daniel Smith (age 53) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***