July 09, 2026
Covington Career Drug Dealer Gets Life Sentence
District Attorney J. Collin Sims announces that on Wednesday (July 8, 2026), the Honorable Judge Richard Swartz sentenced 46-year-old John Silas Joiner, Jr. of Covington, Louisiana, to a mandatory term of life imprisonment with the possibility of parole. The sentencing follows Joiner’s unanimous conviction by a St. Tammany Parish jury on May 22, 2026, where he was found guilty on 15 total counts spanning narcotics, weapons, flight, and resisting arrest charges.
In addition to the mandatory life sentence for the fentanyl trafficking charge, Judge Swartz handed down multiple individual terms ranging from 1 to 15 years for the remaining 14 counts, ordering all sentences to run concurrently. Furthermore, Assistant District Attorneys Iain Dover and Christina Fisher, who prosecuted the case, note that the state intends to file a multiple-offender bill under Louisiana’s Habitual Offender Statute, which would subject the defendant to additional statutory sentencing increases.
"Today’s life sentence ensures that a dangerous repeat offender will never again be able to poison our neighborhoods or compromise the safety of our children," District Attorney Collin Sims said following the hearing. "This defendant chose to repeatedly traffic lethal volumes of fentanyl and run a clandestine pill press right in a home where young children lived. I am grateful to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office for their thorough investigations and to ADAs Iain Dover and Christina Fisher for their exceptional work from trial to final sentencing."
The series of convictions stem from two separate law enforcement operations conducted by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO) in 2023. The first took place in January 2023 during a traffic stop, during which Joiner resisted arrest, struck a detective, and briefly fled on foot. A search of his vehicle uncovered 450 dosage units of fentanyl, crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, a digital scale, brass knuckles, and an AR-style 9mm pistol equipped with a 50-round drum magazine.
The second investigation unfolded in September 2023 after authorities intercepted a jail video call between Joiner and his co-defendant, Amanda Flocke, 40. The video depicted Flocke counting thousands of illicit fentanyl pills on a kitchen table in the immediate presence of minor children. A subsequent search warrant executed at their Mandeville residence revealed 2,746 counterfeit blue "M30" fentanyl tablets, crystal methamphetamine, pharmaceutical pills, and a clandestine manufacturing laboratory setup in the garage used to press fraudulent ecstasy tablets. Flocke previously pleaded guilty on May 8, 2026, to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and was sentenced to 30 years in the Department of Corrections.
The concurrent sentences imposed by Judge Swartz today include:
- Possession with intent to distribute less than 28 grams of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance over 250 grams - Life imprisonment, with the possibility of parole
- Creation or operation of a clandestine laboratory for the unlawful manufacture of a controlled dangerous substance - 10 years
- Possession with intent to distribute less than 28 grams of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance - 10 years
- Possession with intent to distribute less than 28 grams of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance - 10 years
- Possession with intent to distribute less than 28 grams or more of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance - 15 years
- Transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses - 10 years
- Illegal carrying of weapons while in possession of a CDS - 10 years
- Possession of firearm or carrying concealed weapon by a person convicted of certain felonies -10 years
- Simple escape - 1 year
- Possession of less than two (2) grams of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance - 2 years
- Possession of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance less than 2 grams - 2 years
- Possession with intent to distribute less than twenty-eight (28) grams of a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance - 10 years
- Transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses - 10 years
- Possession of fentanyl - less than two grams - 2 years
- Illegal carrying of weapons while in possession of a CDS - 10 years
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 8, 2026
Paul Dessommes (age 57 with a Gulfport, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Kayla Mitchell (age 38 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, No Proof of Insurance, and No Drivers License by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Rafael Garcia-Barahona (age 40 with Gretna, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Switched License Plates, and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $758.00.
Andrew Miller (age 52 with a Raceland, La. address) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s), Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Attempted Pornography Involving Juveniles, and Resisting Arrest by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 7, 2026
Amber Thompson (age 58) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule III, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Covington Police Department.
Damien Antoine (age 36) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the Slidell Police Department.
Tyrus Guidry (age 18) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Penalty for Distribution or Possession With Intent to Distribute, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II Penalties, and Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.
Thomas Barnett (age 49) was booked on the charge of Unlawful Operation From a Minor by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Calvin Martin (age 39) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Contempt of Court (4 counts) by the Covington Police Department.
April Mathis (age 38) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Landin Warren (age 21) was booked on the charge of Illegal Use of Weapons by the Covington Police Department.
Matthew Jones (age 42) was booked on the charges of Obstruction of Justice, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (4 counts), Possession Schedule IV With Intent to Distribute (2 counts), Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Dewey Ard (age 45) was booked on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear and Fugitive by the Mandeville Police Department.
Vincent Nuzzo (age 59) was booked on the charge of Terrorizing by the Mandeville Police Department.
Victoria Medus (age 18) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christian Wagner (age 64) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Arson by the Mandeville Police Department.
Stephen Meiners (age 32) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II (3 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (2 counts), and Improper Turn by the Department of Corrections.
Dustin Yrle (age 20) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault With Firearm by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Alexis Leaphart (age 24) was booked on the charges of Turning Improper at Intersection, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Illegal Possession of a Short-Barreled Rifle by the Slidell Police Department.
***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 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 74. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Friday Sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Saturday A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
July 08, 2026
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Early Bird Gold and Goldsturm are Deserving of Super Plant Status
Each year, the LSU AgCenter names several Louisiana Super Plants. Plants chosen for this designation are expected to perform well in the state.
Two varieties of Rudbeckia fulgida, Early Bird Gold and Goldsturm, are among the 2026 selections. This species is sometimes called orange coneflower or black-eyed Susan. One of my favorite things about these plants is that they tend to be reliably perennial in Louisiana, returning year after year. Note that the name black-eyed Susan is more commonly used for the closely related R. hirta, which isn’t as reliably perennial, though it often comes back from seed.
Orange coneflower isn’t considered native to Louisiana, per se, but it is native to several states in the Deep South, as well as other states in the eastern US.
Goldsturm has been around for many years, having been selected in 1937, and can be freely propagated. Early Bird Gold is a much newer introduction. A specimen with unique characteristics was noticed growing among Goldstrum plants at Dupont Nursery in Louisiana and patented as Early Bird Gold in 2009.
Early Bird Gold is more compact than Goldsturm and starts flowering earlier, around mid- to late May. Goldsturm begins blooming in late June to early July and can continue through late August, while Early Bird Gold tends to be well past its peak by late July. Having both varieties gives you a longer season of flowers.
Plant these on a well-drained site with full sun to partial shade.
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).
Four Indicted on Rape and Child Sexual Abuse Charges
District Attorney J. Collin Sims announces that a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury has returned true bill indictments against four individuals in separate cases involving first-degree rape and sexual abuse of victims under the age of 13.
1. Caleb Michael Rizan, age 22 and of Kentwood, Louisiana, was indicted on charges stemming from offenses that occurred between January 1, 2020, and May 31, 2021, involving a juvenile victim under the age of 13. Rizan was arrested on March 19, 2026, by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office. The grand jury indicted Rizan on the following counts: One count of First-Degree Rape Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen and two counts of Sexual Battery Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen
2. Louis Jaden Willis, age 21 and of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, was indicted for offenses occurring between January 1, 2020, and May 31, 2021, involving a juvenile victim under the age of 13. Willis was arrested on March 16, 2026. The grand jury indicted Willis on the following counts: One count of First-Degree Rape Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen and One count of Sexual Battery Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen
3. Christopher Dale Newman, age 31 and of Madisonville, Louisiana, was indicted following an investigation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office. The charges involve a juvenile victim under the age of 13 and span offenses occurring on or about June 3, 2023, and December 19, 2025. Newman was arrested on March 17, 2026. The grand jury indicted Newman on the following counts: One count of First-Degree Rape Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen, One count of Sexual Battery Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen, Three counts of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials, and One count of Aggravated Crime Against Nature Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen by a Related Offender
4. Jacob Tate McDonald, age 22 and of Violet, Louisiana, was indicted for offenses that occurred between July 22, 2021, and July 21, 2023, involving a juvenile victim under the age of 13. McDonald was arrested on May 6, 2026. The grand jury indicted McDonald on the following count: One count of First-Degree Rape Involving a Victim Under the Age of Thirteen
Following these indictments, all four defendants will be scheduled for formal arraignments in the 22nd Judicial District Court, where they will enter their pleas.
An indictment is an accusatory instrument and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 7, 2026
Avantez Brumfield (age 17 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Home Invasion/Force or Violence by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Jamirel Causey (age 20 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Carjacking by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Stacy McElveen (age 50 with a Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court 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 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Mostly cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 3pm and 5pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Friday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
July 07, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 6, 2026
Victoria Bercegay (age 37) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Careless Operation, and Hit and Run by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Gregory Ford (age 46) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Johnnie McDaniel (age 22) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jessica Cooley (age 44) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Matthew Morales (age 42) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Derrick Johns (age 52) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Mandeville Police Department.
Ryan Mizell (age 36) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Raymond Hart (age 55) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Gero Cook (age 46) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With Firearm, Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, Negligent Carrying of a Concealed Handgun, and Resisting an Officer by the Slidell Police Department.
Brent LeBlanc (age 37) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Dyahivanna Rich (age 25) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ray Martinez (age 53) was booked on the charge of Issuing Worthless Checks by the Pearl River Police Department.
Jacob Sims (age 45) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
James Owens (age 63) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.
Raven Badeaux (age 23) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Michael Jackson (age 64) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Hayden Wright (age 30) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Altoral Terrell (age 28) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by Bondsman.
Francis Broussard (age 36) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Dominic Nevil (age 41) was booked on the charge of Simple Kidnapping by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Trevor Tony (age 30) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Use, and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Executive Order by Parish President Ryan Seal Honoring Former Parish President Mervin Etoy "Toye" Taylor, Jr.
Parish President Ryan Seal has issued the attached Executive Order directing that the flags of Washington Parish Government be flown at half-staff in honor and remembrance of former Washington Parish President Mervin Etoy "Toye" Taylor, Jr.
The lowering of the flags serves as a symbol of respect and gratitude for Mr. Taylor's service to Washington Parish and his contributions to our community.
Our thoughts and prayers remain with the Taylor family and all who knew and loved him during this time of loss.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 5-6, 2026
Brycen Crawford (age 19 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Underage Operating While Intoxicated, General Speed Law, and Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2656.00.
Tyron Nelson (age 26 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Probation and Parole Hold by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Leandras Stribling (age 18 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Illegal Possession of a Stolen Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Nicole Pruiett (age 31 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Caleb Holmes (age 20 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Prohibited Acts/All Schedules, and Theft 1000-5000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Matthew Slade (age 51 with a Bogalusa, La address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving Under Suspension, and General Speed Law by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Corey Dykes (age 36 with a Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Stop Signs and Yield Signs Violations, Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Edward Conerly (age 65 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Cocaine by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Kendall Rowell (age 46 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Attachment by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Delores Kennedy (age 22 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner and Simple Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Amber Graham (age 44 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Christian Gable (age 18 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Beyonce Pittman (age 24 with an Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault, Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner, Aggravated Battery, Cruelty to Juveniles by the Bogalusa Police Department and on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Stephanie Gibson (age 51 with a Hammond, La address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Dim Headlights, No Drivers License, No Insurance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd + Offense), and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $12000.00.
Brandon Robertson (age 46 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) 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 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5pm. Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Wednesday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm. Sunny, with a high near 92. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Thursday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
July 06, 2026
Slidell Man Convicted & Sentenced on Child Sex Abuse Charges
District Attorney J. Collin Sims announced today (July 6, 2026) that on July 2, 2026, 54-year-old Abelardo Lee Rosa of Slidell, Louisiana, pleaded guilty as charged to several child sexual abuse charges. The plea was entered before the Honorable Judge Vincent J. Lobello, following a comprehensive investigation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO).
Rosa pleaded guilty as charged to the following offenses:
- Sexual Battery (Victim under 15)
- Oral Sexual Battery (Victim under 15)
- Molestation of a Juvenile (Involving a position of control or supervision)
- Video Voyeurism (Involving a child under 17)
- Production of Pornography Involving Juveniles (41 Counts)
Judge Lobello sentenced Rosa to 19.5 years in prison, just six months shy of the maximum statutory penalty. Per the court's order, all counts are to be served without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence, with the sole exception of count three. Rosa was immediately remanded to the custody of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office to begin serving his sentence.
The investigation began in August 2024 when a local therapist notified the Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) and the STPSO Special Victims Unit (SVU) regarding disclosures made by a juvenile friend of the victim. STPSO Detectives, alongside a DCFS Child Protection Investigator, launched an immediate investigation at a local high school.
The juvenile victim subsequently underwent a detailed forensic interview at the Children’s Advocacy Center Hope House, exposing a pattern of systematic, horrific abuse by Rosa.
Evidence gathered during the investigation - including electronic recordings found on household devices, a written confession letter, and an admission by Rosa that he viewed the victim "as an object in a pornographic film" - uncovered that Rosa used a system of manipulation and coercion to subject the victim to sexual acts. Furthermore, Rosa used his cell phone to secretly record the victim undressing through the bottom edge of a bathroom door, resulting in dozens of counts of production of child pornography.
Assistant District Attorney Shelby Stoop prosecuted the case on behalf of the State.
"The details of this case are profoundly disturbing, revealing a massive violation of trust by someone who should have been a protector," said District Attorney Collin Sims. "Thanks to the bravery of the young victim, the diligence of our partners at the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the swift action of the mandatory reporter who spoke up, this predator has been stripped of his freedom. Our office remains relentlessly committed to aggressively prosecuting those who exploit our most vulnerable citizens and ensuring they face the full weight of justice."
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 5, 2026
Rene Kiern (age 28) was booked on the charge of Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Evelyn Pullman (age 42) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Careless Operation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Angelo Dileonardo (age 35) was booked on the charges of Operating Vehicle While Intoxicated (3rd Offense) and Driving Under Suspension by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Annalise Alfaro (age 22) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court, Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Careless Operation, Driving Under Suspension, and Expired License Plate by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Johnel Tinsley (age 34) was booked on the charge of Penalty for Distribution or Possession With Intent to Distribute by the Louisiana State Police.
Kenneth Pitts (age 32) was booked on the charge of DWI by the Louisiana State Police.
Stephen Kelley (age 31) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment and Domestic Abuse Battery With Serious Bodily Injury by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Shawn Brown (age 37) was booked on the charges of Battery of a Dating Partner and Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tevis Williamson (age 27) was booked on the charge of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court by Bondsman.
John Watford (age 28) was booked on the charge of Illegal Use of Weapons by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tabius Hallock (age 66) was booked on the charge of DWI 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 A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 8pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between noon and 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
July 05, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 4, 2026
Elizabeth Boehm (age 27) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer and Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Maia Perun (age 34) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
James Wagner (age 65) was booked on the charges of DWI, Careless Operation, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Louisiana State Police.
Remie Allen (age 49) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.
Neichell Raymond (age 50) was booked on the charges of Establishing Speed Laws, Illegal Window Tint, Possession of Schedule I, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription, and Drug Paraphernalia by the Mandeville Police Department.
Jeremi Brock (age 18) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I, Drug Paraphernalia, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription by the Mandeville Police Department.
Madison Menne (age 24) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery With Child Endangerment by the Slidell Police Department.
Kobe Szura (age 27) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Alysa Graham (age 23) was booked on the charges of DWI and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.
Jeremy Beard (age 47) was booked on the charges of Battery of Dating Partner/Strangulation, Simple Criminal Damage Less Than 1000, Simple Robbery, Interfering With Emergency Communication, and False Imprisonment (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Davon Johnson (age 37) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Wayne Vandyke (age 52) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear (2 counts) by the Covington Police Department.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 3-4, 2026
Tammy Williams (age 59 with an Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Operation With Accident, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Kevin Swazey (age 52 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Michael Brice (age 53 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight From an Officer, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II, Obstruction of Justice, Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Sale Distribution or
Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, Possession of Schedule 3 With Intent to Distribute, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Bogalusa Police Department. 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 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 2pm and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 10pm, then a slight chance of showers after 4am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Monday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Monday Night A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 10pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 50 percent chance of showers with thunderstorms also possible after 10am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
July 04, 2026
Amite Pedestrian Killed in Crash After Midnight
On July 3, 2026, at 1:20 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on US Highway 51 near Ponders Quarters Lane in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 72-year-old Robert Baker of Amite.
The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee was traveling north on US Highway 51. At the same time, a pedestrian, later identified as Baker, was in the northbound lane of US Highway 51. For reasons still under investigation, the Jeep struck Baker in the roadway.
Baker suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the Jeep, who was properly restrained, was not injured. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were collected from both Baker and the driver for analysis.
Louisiana State Police urge both pedestrians and motorists to remain alert and aware of their surroundings while on or near roadways. Crashes involving pedestrians are often preventable when basic safety measures are observed. Pedestrians are encouraged to wear reflective clothing, utilize well-lit areas, walk facing oncoming traffic, and minimize distractions. Walking along an interstate is prohibited under Louisiana law, except in emergency situations.
Do you know that nearly 77% of all pedestrian fatalities in the United States occur in the dark. Darkness obscures pedestrians from drivers' view. Pedestrians are advised to wear high-visibility clothing and/or safety vests and/or carry a flashlight.
DON'T BE A STATISTIC.
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 3, 2026
Ethan Lott (age 21) was booked on the charges of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Careless Operation, Illegal Window Tint, and Possession of Schedule I by the Slidell Police Department.
Jay Honora (age 24) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule I CDS, Possession of Schedule II, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, and Resisting an Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Shyla Myrick (age 36) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Slidell Police Department.
Billi Aragonsolis (age 19) was booked on the charges of Flight From Officer/Aggravated Flight From Officer and Aggravated Obstruction of Highway of Commerce by the Covington Police Department.
Jack Jones (age 58) was booked on the charges of DWI, Improper Lane Use, Expired License Plate, and Driving Under Suspension by the Louisiana State Police.
David Hentz (age 63) was booked on the charge of Operating While Intoxicated/Second Offense Penalties by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Leann Simon (age 40) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Cruelty to Juveniles by the 22nd Judicial Court.
***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.
Independence Day A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 1pm and 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind.
Tonight A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Sunday A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Sunday Night A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 10pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Monday A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 90. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
July 03, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 2, 2026
Paul Reimonenq (age 22) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule I by the Mandeville Police Department.
Wynter Cosey (age 42) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Aaron Ferguson (age 38) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kenyatta Harris (age 38) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Schedule II
(2 counts), Drug Paraphernalia (2
counts), Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription, and Possession of Schedule IV by the Slidell Police Department.
Semaj Joiner (age 25) was booked on the charges of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon and Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms by the Covington Police Department.
Glen Baham (age 75) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Keith Lebeau (age 51) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Otis Ellis (age 47) was booked on the charge of Attempted Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.
Jeffery Hosey (age 42) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Battery and Disturbing the Peace/Violent and Tumultuous Manner by the Pearl River Police Department.
Karen Washington (age 43) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Aggravated Assault by the Covington Police Department.
Brad Lato (age 41) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Amanda Russell (age 40) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Peter Newell (age 58) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Kyle Ray (age 27) was booked on the charge of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by Bondsman.
Kyle Kopanke (age 30) was booked on the charge of Obscenity by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
James Liverett (age 62) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Slidell Police Department.
Josell Castro-Lemus (age 22) was booked on the charge o Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Roynika Warner (age 19) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Aggravated Assault by the Covington Police Department.
Chavis Ramsey (age 33) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Myles Johnson (age 28) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace, Simple Assault, False Imprisonment, and Interfering With Emergency Communication by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jade Payne (age 42) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Maria Palmisano (age 43) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Frank Fradella (age 70) 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***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 2, 2026
Michael Weary (age 43 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Charlee Burton (age 23 with a Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charge of Outstanding Warrants by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jordon Bennett (age 30 with a Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation (2nd or Subsequent Violation) and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Brandon Parker (age 33 with a Picayune, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Student-Athlete Charged with Battery in Tangipahoa Parish
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) reports the arrest on Thursday (July 2, 2026) of 22-year-old Kaden Lewis, a local college student-athlete following a battery incident involving a dating partner on June 23, 2026. Lewis voluntarily turned himself in and was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on one count each of 2nd Degree Battery, False Imprisonment and Simple Criminal Damage to Property.
On June 23, 2026, a woman contacted TPSO to report having been attacked by Lewis at his home on Bridget Road in the Hammond area. The victim had to seek medical attention for her injuries.
Following an investigation, a warrant was obtained for Lewis’ arrest.
***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. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Independence Day A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Increasing clouds, with a high near 94. Calm wind.
Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Sunday A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind.
Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
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