Delorese Bickerstaff Day
January 25, 1934 — August 23, 2026
District Attorney J. Collin Sims reports that on Thursday (August 27, 2026), a Washington Parish jury returned a guilty verdict in just 30 minutes, finding 43-year-old Derrick Fairley of Angie, Louisiana, guilty as charged of Second Degree Murder and Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl. The verdict was rendered following a trial before the Honorable District Judge Martin Coady. Sentencing is scheduled for September 4, 2026. Fairley faces a mandatory sentence of life imprisonment at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.
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The conviction stems from the fatal overdose of 34-year-old Roxanne Fortenberry on December 15, 2024. Washington Parish Sheriff's Office (WPSO) deputies responded to a residence on Wardline Road where Fortenberry was discovered deceased in her bed. An autopsy and toxicology screening conducted by the Coroner's Office subsequently confirmed that Fortenberry died of a lethal dose of Fentanyl.
A forensic analysis of the victim’s cell phone conducted by WPSO detectives uncovered text messages from December 13, 2024, in which Fortenberry arranged to purchase $100 worth of suspected Heroin from a drug dealer identified as "Dee.” Investigators traced the phone number directly to Fairley, a known narcotics dealer with an extensive criminal history.
On December 16, 2024, undercover officers with the WPSO and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT) utilized the victim's cell phone to set up a controlled drug buy with Fairley. When Fairley arrived at the victim's driveway, law enforcement surrounded the vehicle. As officers activated their emergency lights, Fairley handed a concealed bag of brownish powder to his female passenger, apologizing to her as he instructed her to hide the narcotics. Field tests confirmed the substance contained Fentanyl.
Assistant District Attorneys Iain Dover and Tiffany Dover prosecuted the case on behalf of the State. During closing statements, ADA Iain Dover emphasized the consequences of narcotics trafficking, stating, "The defendant sold the victim a death sentence, and with the money he received, bought himself a life sentence.”
District Attorney Collin Sims commended the actions of law enforcement and the prosecution team following the verdict. "Fentanyl is a deadly poison that continues to devastate families across our community. This verdict sends a clear message: if you deal fatal doses of Fentanyl in Washington Parish, my office will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law for murder," said District Attorney Collin Sims. "I want to commend the dedicated work of our prosecution team, lead WPSO investigator Captain Chad Cassard, and our law enforcement partners who acted swiftly to take this violent repeat offender off our streets.”
Washington Parish Sheriff Jason Smith stated, “Unfortunately, we continue to have people in our community who manipulate others in their lowest moments in order to make money. Thankfully, in Washington Parish, I have some exceptional deputies who will not stop going after the people who take advantage of others. Today was a win; there will be more.”
"Fentanyl is a lethal poison, and those who trade human lives for profit must face swift justice," said DEA New Orleans Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott. "This conviction highlights the vital impact of our Fentanyl Overdose Response Team working alongside local partners to pull deadly traffickers off our streets."
DA Sims extends special recognition to the joint law enforcement effort that led to the apprehension and conviction of Fairley, including the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), the U.S. Secret Service, the Louisiana State Police, and the Bogalusa Police Department.
Congresswoman Julia Letlow has announced that her team will host satellite office hours in Washington Parish and her district staff will be available in both Bogalusa and Franklinton to help constituents of Louisiana’s 5th District with federal agency related issues, such as IRS, VA, or Social Security assistance. All local residents in LA-05 are invited to attend and receive specialized assistance.
September 9, 2026: From 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. at Bogalusa City Court, 202 Arkansas Ave., Bogalusa, LA. 70427
September 9, 2026: From 2 - 3 p.m. at Franklinton City Hall, 301 11th Ave., Franklinton, LA. 70438
Chad Moore (age 33 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Switched License Plates, Theft Less Than 1000, and Theft of Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.
Gabriel Warren (age 23 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Attempted Simple Burglary by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Autumn Bonnet (age 30 with a Covington, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Eushekia Hughes (age 37) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tinaja Taylor (age 24) was booked on the charges of Taking Contraband to and from a Penal Institution (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ivance Mitchell (age 29) was booked on the charges of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, Driving Under Suspension, No Insurance, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ike Spencer (age 32) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of Schedule I, Ignore Traffic Signal, Driving Under Suspension, Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear, and Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Manzanero Wabomnor (age 43) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Alyssa Toledo (age 33) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court by Bondsman.
Gage Ticker (age 21) was booked on the charges of Pornography Involving Juveniles and Sexual Abuse of an Animal (2 counts) by the Louisiana State Police.
Kristen Browncoulfield (age 37) was booked on the charges of Bank Fraud and Access Device Fraud by the Slidell Police Department.
Tracy McMurtry (age 46) was booked on the charge of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS by the District Attorney.
Lynette Gonzales (age 59) was booked on the charge of Stalking by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jamaica Ball (age 29) was booked on the charge of Armed Robbery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Brianna Rielo (age 24) was booked on the charge of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Donald Cyprian (age 22) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery and Negligent Carrying of a Concealed Weapon by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Antoine Calahan (age 27) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ricky McKevitt (age 68) was booked on the charges of Driving Under Suspension, No Safety Belts, No Proof of Insurance, Contempt of Court, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the morning.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 70. Calm wind.
Saturday Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming clear, with a low around 70. Calm wind.
Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
The only disturbance out there is Tropical Storm Dolly, which is located about 1145 miles east of the Leeward Islands and continues moving rapidly westward at 24 MPH with 40 MPH maximum sustained winds. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Dolly is forecast to degenerate into a tropical wave before it reaches the Leeward Islands.
District Attorney J. Collin Sims reports that on Thursday, August 27, 2026, 54-year-old David Huey Rester, Jr., of Bogalusa, Louisiana, pleaded guilty as charged to First Degree Murder in connection with the March 2022 shooting death of local business owner Marl Wayne Smith. Following the guilty plea, District Judge Martin Coady sentenced Rester to life imprisonment at hard labor without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Assistant District Attorneys Jay Adair and Christina Fisher prosecuted the case for the State.
The charge stems from an incident on March 2, 2022, when deputies with the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to a medical emergency call at The Pub Lounge on South Columbia Street in Bogalusa. Upon arrival, officers discovered the bar’s owner, Marl Wayne Smith, deceased behind the bar with multiple gunshot wounds, and the business's ATM destroyed. A collaborative investigation conducted by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, led by WPSO Detectives Raymond Myers and Corbet Hunt, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, and law enforcement partners in Mississippi linked ballistics, local firearm purchase records, and surveillance footage to Rester.
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Investigators obtained video surveillance from the bar that depicted Rester entering the establishment and drinking multiple beers while conversing with Smith, who was the only other person present at the time, for approximately 90 minutes. After rising as if to leave, Rester shook Smith’s hand, then pulled a gun from his waistband, shooting Smith several times. Rester then retrieved some of his fired shell casings before unsuccessfully attempting to retrieve cash from the bar’s ATM. He was subsequently arrested after robbing a bank in Waveland, MS, and shooting at pursuing law enforcement officials during a high-speed chase along I-10 through Hancock and Harrison Counties in Mississippi.
"This conviction ensures that a dangerous offender will spend the rest of his life behind bars," said District Attorney Collin Sims. "Marl Wayne Smith was a valued member of the Bogalusa community, and while this life sentence cannot replace the loss felt by his family and friends, we hope it brings a measure of justice and closure to all who loved him. I commend the thorough investigative work of the law enforcement agencies involved and our prosecution team for securing this result."
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) is investigating a case involving a woman severely injured when an object was thrown through the windshield of her vehicle.
In the late evening hours of August 16, 2026, a semi-truck driver traveling on Highway 1054 near Forbes Road in the Spring Creek area experienced her windshield suddenly break, shattering portions into the passenger compartment. Glass from the break severely injured one of her eyes which she continues to receive medical treatment for today.
The investigation revealed that an occupant of a red, four-door sedan with chrome rims, passing the semi-truck in the opposite direction, threw an object at the windshield, causing the break. Dash camera video in the semi-truck captured the incident and the suspect vehicle.
The TPSO is asking anyone with information about this vehicle, or this incident, to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at 985-902-2088.
If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip!
Tips submitted directly through Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.
Chance Luke (age 28 with an Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated With Child Endangerment, Hit and Run, Criminal Damage, No Insurance, and Gross Littering by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.
Leslie Davis (age 37 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft 1000-5000, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, No License Plate, and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Torrence Reed (age 47 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I/Ecstasy, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II (4 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule III, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Possession of Heroin, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, Possession of Schedule I/Tetrahydrocannabinols or Synthetic Cannabinoids, Open Container in Vehicle, and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Richard Creel (age 26 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II (2 counts), Obstruction of Justice, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Joseph Garner (age 32 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of a Firearm or Concealed Weapon by Person Convicted of Domestic Abuse Battery, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Obstruction of Justice, Possession of Marijuana, Prohibited Acts, License Plate/Improper Lighting, Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles, and No Drivers License by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Melvin Newton (age 40) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jared Bland (age 37) was booked on the charges of Theft of a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Trespass, and Simple Criminal Damage to Property by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Scott Glendening (age 54) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Louisiana State Police.
Terrell Guillard (age 20) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS, Possession With Intent to Distribute
Schedule II CDS, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV CDS, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of a Unregistered Firearm or Silencer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Redonald Veal (age 50) was booked on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear and Contempt of Court by Agency not listed.
Akiah Smith (age 23) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS, Possession of Schedule II, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, and Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Mark White (age 19) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS, Possession of Schedule II, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, and Driving Under Suspension by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Lance Brewer (age 35) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court by Agency not listed.
Sharoy Massey (age 32) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Jason Dickson (age 50) was booked on the charges of Bank Fraud and Computer Fraud by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tristan Brown (age 21) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Cody Beason (age 31) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Justin McCullum (age 38) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole.
Wendi Holmes (age 45) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Alisha Christmas (age 35) was booked on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Charles Delaughter (age 41) was booked on the charge of Theft 5000-25000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ryan Billings (age 44) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Safety Belts by the 22nd Judicial Court.
John Hargis (age 33) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Chad Winslow (age 45) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Louis Mistretta (age 41) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary and Illegal Possession of Stolen Things Less Than 1000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Opal Currie (age 23) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Mark Grainger (age 32) was booked on the charges of Bank Fraud, Computer Fraud, and Forgery by the Slidell Police Department.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Disturbance 1. Central Tropical Atlantic (AL96): An area of low pressure is located about midway between Africa and the Windward Islands. Advisories could be initiated on a short-lived tropical storm later today. However, environmental conditions are expected to become hostile beginning on Friday, likely ending its chances for further development. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...90 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...90 percent.
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 87. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Calm wind.
Friday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Calm wind.
Saturday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 70. Calm wind.
The Washington Parish Government has a job opening for Director of Finance/Personnel. This is a full-time position offering a competitive salary, including complete benefit package.
Overview
The Director of Finance provides oversight and guidance to the Administrative Finance department for the Washington Parish Government. The Director ensures proper administration of all financial functions, oversees the disbursement and receipt of Parish funds according to applicable state statutes and parish policies and procedures and prepares financial reports in accordance with generally accepted governmental accounting principles. The Director develops and maintains proper internal controls for all accounting systems within the Parish Government.
Responsibilities
Requirements:
The Director of Finance, at the time of appointment, shall have at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, accounting, public administration or a related field from an accredited college or university, and at least two (2) years’ experience in a responsible managerial or administrative fiscal position or, in lieu of the preceding, have at least five (5) years’ experience in a responsible managerial or administrative fiscal position. A Certified Public Accountant (CPA) license is preferred.
Interested candidates may obtain further information by contacting Human Resource office at 985-335-1304. Resumes and two (2) professional letters of reference may be emailed to Patrick J. Galivan at pgalivan@wpgov.org or delivered to 909 Pearl Street Franklinton, LA 70438, until September 11, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.
Washington Parish Government provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or expression or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.
Cesar Tablante-Padron (age 25) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Driver Must Be Licensed by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Andrew Gautier (age 20) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana or Synthetic Cannabinoids and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Elysia McMillan (age 48) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Simple Battery by the Pearl River Police Department.
Mary Nicholson (age 36) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Miranda Baham (age 28) was booked on the charge of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court by Bondsman.
Gary Evans (age 44) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Unlawful Use of Body Armor, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription by Probation and Parole.
Majid Dabit (age 31 was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Shawn Russell (age 55) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Nicholas Lenain (age 47) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Sean Herron (age 49) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Possession of Schedule I by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Sean Kelly (age 34) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court by Bondsman.
Calvin Lesley (age 38) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Charles Peterson (age 47) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Criminal Trespass by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Stephen Arthur (age 35) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the Slidell Police Department.
Carl Pritchard (age 36) was booked on the charge of Simple Escape/Aggravated Escape by the Slidell Police Department.
Jourdan Griggs (age 22) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Hayward Partman (age 52 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court
Mary Nicholson (age 36 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on charges not listed by Agency not listed. No bond set at this time.
Quandarius Rowe (age 33 with address not listed) was booked on charges not listed by Agency not listed. No bond set at this time.
Darryl Harris (age 60 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.
Dawayne Whitaker (age 35 with address not listed) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Driving While Intoxicated, Driving Under Suspension, Criminal Damage to Property, Vehicular Injuring/Negligent, and Vehicular Injuring/Negligent/First Degree by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $50000.00.
Adam Lott (age 46 with an Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Self Mutilation by a Prisoner by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Jerry Barber (age 50 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggrravated Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Dustin Orgeron (age 44 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Simple Burglary, and Resisting Arrest by Flight by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Disturbance 1. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL96): An area of low pressure, associated with a tropical wave, is located a few hundred miles southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. Environmental conditions are somewhat favorable for development over the next couple of days, and a tropical depression could form over the next day or two as the system moves westward to west-northwestward across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Environmental conditions are forecast to become less favorable by this weekend, potentially ending its chances for development. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...60 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 107. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Tonight A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Thursday Night A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Calm wind.
Friday A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.
Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. Calm wind.
Horus Toullier (age 64) was booked on the charges of No Safety Belts and Resisting an Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Stephon Cooley (age 26) was booked on the charges of Simple Criminal Damage to Property, Simple Robbery, and Simple Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Adam Walsworth (age 40) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Tampering With Surveillance Accounting Inventory or Monitoring, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, and Telephone Communications/Improper Language/Harassment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Joshua Navarre (age 41) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With Firearm, Simple Burglary, Theft 1000-5000, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, and Interfering With Emergency Communications by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Peter Ricca (age 33) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery, Interfering With Emergency Communication, and Resisting an Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Gerardo Luis (age 33) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.
Junius Trask (age 42) was booked on the charges of Carjacking, Resisting an Officer, Simple Battery, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, and DWI (4th or Subsequent Offense) by the Slidell Police Department.
Jefferson Acosta (age 27) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Motor Vehicle Upon a Peace Officer, Aggravated Flight From Officer, Resisting an Officer, Driver Must Be Licensed, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Slidell Police Department.
Andrew Vinning (age 61) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.
Anthony Crouch (age 27) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Barry Castaneda (age 62) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court (3 counts) by Bondsman.
Helen Bourn (age 18) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Light north wind becoming northwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Wednesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 2pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 107. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Thursday A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Disturbance 1. Central Subtropical Atlantic (AL95): An area of low pressure located a few hundred miles east-northeast of Bermuda could become a short-lived tropical depression or storm later today before encountering increasingly hostile conditions tonight and Wednesday, likely ending its chances for development. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...40 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.
Disturbance 2. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL96): An area of low pressure is centered a few hundred miles south-southeast of the Cabo Verde Islands. This system is likely to become a tropical depression during the next day or two while it moves westward to west-northwestward across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Environmental conditions could become less conducive for development by the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...70 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...70 percent.
Samantha Landry (age 31 with a Covington, La. address) 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, and Battery on a Police Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Kakawana Magee (age 29 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info, and Failure to Appear by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond Information Incomplete at this time.
Adrian Fleming (age 39 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (4 counts) and Disturbing the Peace/Violent and Tumultuous Manner by Agency not listed. No bond set at this time.
William Hasson (age 54 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Criminal Conspiracy/Theft, Motor Vehicle Alteration or Removal of Identifying Numbers, and Possession of Stolen Things $25000 or More by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Ramee Atlow (age 56) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Shantella Casnave (age 44) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Fugitive by the Mandeville Police Department.
Judith Mackey (age 43) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Improper Lane Use by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Glen Dickerson (age 57) was booked on the charges of Hit and Run, No Proof of Insurance, Failure to Transfer Title, Careless Operation, Expired Drivers License, No Tag Displayed, No Registration, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Mandeville Police Department.
Tilor Duncan (age 29) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Establishing Speed Zones by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Logan Bixler (age 37) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the Covington Police Department.
Joshua Lincoln (age 48) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Louisiana State Police.
Grady Payne (age 23) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Schedule II, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Resisting an Officer by Refusing to Identify, and Battery of a Police Officer by the Covington Police Department.
Danielle Howard (age 42) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Stephanie Reynolds (age 56) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jose Mira (age 19) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight From Officer and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Causeway Bridge Police.
Ryan Plucienski (age 43) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Burglary by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Paul Lehr (age 52) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Callie Smith (age 32) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Seth Howard (age 43) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule III, Two Headlights Required, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
An inmate at the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center died Saturday (August 22, 2026) following an apparent medical emergency.
The inmate was being housed in a medical observation dorm at the time of the incident due to known medical conditions. Shortly after 8:15 p.m. Saturday, Corrections deputies observed the inmate experiencing a medical emergency and immediately began life-saving measures. Those efforts, along with intervention from emergency medical personnel and personnel with the company contracted to provide medical services at the jail, were unsuccessful, and the inmate was pronounced deceased.
At this time, no foul play is suspected, and the death is believed to be the result of natural causes.
The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office took possession of the body, and an autopsy will be conducted to determine the official cause and manner of death.
The identity of the inmate is not being released at this time so that family can be properly notified.
The investigation into the death is ongoing.
The Washington Parish Council will meet at 5:30 PM on Monday (August 24, 2026) in Council Chambers at the Courthouse in Franklinton. The meeting will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv Note: Video of the meeting will be immediately available on the Facebook page. All meetings of the Washington Parish Council are archived here.
Preceding the Regular Meeting will be a Public Hearing on an ordinance to “Adopt an Ordinance to Amend the 2026 Annual Operating Budget for the Washington Parish Government.
On the Agenda for the Regular Meeting are the following:
Rusty Fornea: ADAPT
ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/DISCUSSION ITEMS
Following Public Participation, the Council will hear reports from the Parish President and his staff before adjourning
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. Increasing clouds and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the morning. 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 7pm. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 2pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Wednesday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Disturbance 1. Central Subtropical Atlantic (AL95): An area of low pressure is located a few hundred miles southeast of Bermuda. This system could become a short-lived tropical depression or storm during the next couple of days while it moves northward and north-northeastward, well northeast of Bermuda. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...50 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.
Disturbance 2. Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa later today. A tropical depression could form by the middle to latter portions of the week while the system moves generally westward at 15 to 20 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.
John Stewart (age 37) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Obstruction of Justice/Simple Assault by the Covington Police Department.
Aaron Johnson (age 47) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Improper Lane Use by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ashleigh Singh (age 35) was booked on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kenyatta Collins (age 29) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell
Police Department.
Jordan Kaiser (age 29) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Careless Operation by the Causeway Bridge Police.
Dernell Jynes (age 35) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jamll Williams (age 20) was booked on the charges of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, Unlawful Sale/Possession of Tobacco by Person Under 18 YOA, and Pedestrian on Hwy/Interstate by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Gerald Snyder (age 41) was booked on the charges of Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription and Violations of Registration Provisions by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Edward Aiello (age 62) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Robert King (age 46) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Obstruction of Highway of Commerce by the Slidell Police Department.
Thomas Bailey (age 58) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Quentin Leday (age 39) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christopher Tanner (age 45) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS, Possession of Schedule II (2 counts), Possession of Schedule IV (2 counts), Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, Possession of Marijuana, and Driving Under Suspension by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Justin Smith (age 20) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Simple Assault and Aggravated Assault by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kali Kreger (age 30) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Rene Parker (age 40) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery, Disturbing the Peace/Simple Assault, and Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence 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.
Brittney Smith (age 40) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to Juveniles by the Slidell Police Department.
Khristy Ridgel (age 48) was booked on the charges of Windshields Required, Expired License Plate, and Possession of Schedule II by the Slidell Police Department.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 109. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.
Tonight A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Monday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Increasing clouds and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 107. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Monday Night Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Disturbance 1. Northeastern Atlantic: A non-tropical area of low pressure is located a few hundred miles west of the coast of Portugal. This system has only a slight chance of acquiring subtropical characteristics later today. By tonight, the low will encounter unfavorable environmental conditions, and further development is not expected. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.
Disturbance 2. Central Subtropical Atlantic (AL95): A broad area of low pressure is located a few hundred miles southeast of Bermuda. Some development of this system is possible during the next few days as it drifts northwestward today and then accelerates northward early this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.
Disturbance 3. Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa on Monday. Environmental conditions are forecast to be marginally conducive for development, and a tropical depression could form by the middle to latter portions of the week while the system moves generally westward at 15 to 20 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.
Caleb Newman (age 26 with an Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (7 counts) and Domestic Abuse Battery (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Duane Whitney (age 45 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Jarvis Blackmon (age 35 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jackie Brister (age 29 with an Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Second Degree Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Dane Nycole Spears (age 37 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court.
Derrick Braxton (age 45 with a Tangipahoa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Failure to Appear, and Home Invasion/Aggravated Assault/Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Heather Vilcan (age 44) was booked on the charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christopher Buelle (age 38) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Possession of Schedule I, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule III CDS, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Contempt of Court (2 counts), Simple Assault, Criminal Conspiracy, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS, and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Tiffany Deroche (age 44) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute of a Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III CDS, Possession of Schedule I, and Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Sarah Vogel (age 31) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III CDS, Possession of Schedule I, and Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Domingo Sanchez (age 55) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III CDS, Possession of Schedule I, Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court by the Slidell Police Department.
Orlando Rascon-Bernon (age 31) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Improper Lane Usage by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Michael Shannon (age 62) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Brody Evans (age 18) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Robert Paulhus (age 64) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Schedule III CDS, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Irwin Savoye (age 49) was booked on the charges of Violation of Protective Orders (2nd Offense) and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Clint Cooper (age 42) was booked on the charges of Theft of Motor Vehicle $25000 or More, Bank Fraud, and Fugitive by the Pearl River Police Department.
Christian Bourgeois (age 21) was booked on the charges of Fugitive, Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear (2 counts), and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Mandeville Police Department.
Timothy Noel (age 33) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christy Parks (age 52) was booked on the charge of Bank Fraud by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Gelila Neitzel (age 32) was booked on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Cleandrew Oliver (age 42) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Chelsey Alderman (age 21) was booked on the charge of Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Trenton Byrd (age 31) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Sarah Ballay (age 41) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Landon Woodside (age 23) was booked on charge(s) not listed by the Louisiana State Police.
Marcus Schech (age 18) was booked on the charge of Pornography Involving Juveniles With Age Restrictions by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Damien Washington (age 45) was booked on the charges of Bank Fraud, Access Device Fraud Over $25000, Theft Over $25000, and Identity Theft by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jacque Carr (age 24) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary of an Inhabited Dwelling, Simple Criminal Damage to Property 1000-50000, and Telephone Communications/Improper Language/Harassment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Terry Jones (age 30) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Kayden Taylor (age 29) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery Committed With Dangerous Weapon, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Simple Battery, and Battery of a Police Officer.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
A federal officer, 58-year-old Thomas Bailey of Lecompte, was arrested Friday (August 21, 2026) morning after he entered his ex-girlfriend’s Covington-area apartment without permission. The ex-girlfriend was not home at the time Bailey entered the apartment.
Bailey, employed at the Immigration and Customs Enforcement office in Oakdale, was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and taken into custody. He was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for one count of L.R.S. 14:62.3 Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling.
“Regardless of where you work or what position you hold, the law applies equally to everyone,” Sheriff Bret Ibert said. “When someone enters another person’s residence without permission, we are going to investigate the circumstances and take the appropriate action based on the facts of the case.”
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 107. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 108. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.
Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Monday A 40 percent chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 10am. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Disturbance 1. Northeastern Atlantic: A strong non-tropical area of low pressure is located over the northeastern Atlantic several hundred miles west of the coast of Portugal. This system could acquire some subtropical or tropical characteristics later today or on Sunday but the opportunity for tropical or subtropical development should end Sunday night when the system encounters unfavorable environmental conditions. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
Disturbance 2. Central Subtropical Atlantic: A trough of low pressure is located over the central subtropical Atlantic a few hundred miles east of Bermuda. Development of this system, if any, is expected to be slow to occur while it drifts westward through Sunday and then accelerates northward early next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
Disturbance 3. Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa on Monday. An area of low pressure could form and subsequent development will be possible while the system moves westward at 15 to 20 mph across the eastern and central tropical Atlantic through the end of next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.