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November 30, 2016

Fugitive Arrested in Angie After Fleeing Into Woods

Responding to an unsubstantiated report of domestic violence on Monday (November 28), WPSO deputies encountered Kelzon Terrel Clark (23) of Angie. When a deputy attempted to handcuff him, Clark broke free and fled into nearby woods.  A manhunt ensued with assistance from a canine team from Rayburn Correctional Center.
The canine team and handlers located Clark hiding in a densely wooded area, taken into custody without incident, and booked on the charges of being a fugitive from Bogalusa and resisting an officer by fleeing on foot. 
Clark was wanted by the Bogalusa Police Department for Assault By Drive-By Shooting (2 counts), Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instruments, and Attempted First Degree Murder (2 counts)
“Based on the evidence of all the charges against him, I think Mr. Clark has found a new home inside the Washington Parish Jail,” said Sheriff Randy Seal. “Our officers and officers from Rayburn Correctional Center did an excellent job identifying Clark, locating him in the woods and placing him in jail. I am so grateful for the outstanding working relationship we have with Warden Tanner and the staff at RCC. They are always ready to assist, day and night, regardless of the hour.”

Fugitive Arrested at Riverside Medical Center

On November 28, a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy working a detail at Riverside Medical Center in Franklinton noticed a person who was acting in a suspicious manner. The deputy determined the man to be Justin Wayne Stafford (29), a resident of Nobles Cemetery Road in Franklinton, had three outstanding Failure to Appear Warrants (for Possession of Cocaine, Traffic offenses, and Disturbing the Peace by fighting.
The deputy took Stafford into custody and, during a search at the jail, discovered that Stafford had cocaine and Suboxone pain strips on his person. 
Sheriff Randy Seal congratulated the deputy on his quick action in apprehending Stafford. “Our alert deputy did an excellent job in this matter. Only Stafford knows why he was at the hospital and it is beyond reason to understand why anyone would bring illegal drugs into a hospital setting. The alertness of our deputy may have prevented another crime.”

Help Pearl River PD Identify This Suspect

The Pearl River Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in identifying and locating the suspect in the pictures below for theft and car burglaries.
Anyone with information is asked to call Lt. Daniel Hunter at (985) 707-9710.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Brandon Lewallen was booked 11/28 on the charge of Attachment
Aimee Humphries was booked 11/28 In From Court
Justin Stafford was booked 11/28 on the charges of Attachment (3 counts), Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs
Christopher Bangs was booked 11/28 on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts)
Kelzon Clark was booked 11/28 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Resisting an Officer (Flight on Foot)

Mississippi Thief Strikes in Washington Parish

Antonio Patrick Peters (30), a resident of Connerly Road in Tylertown, Mississippi, is in the Washington Parish Jail charged with burglary of an inhabited dwelling. 
On November 15, Peters decided to venture into Washington Parish to burglarize a home on Frankie Miller Road in Mt. Hermon. He entered the home and stole several items.  However, a passerby witnessed the burglar leaving and provided a description of the truck and a direction of travel.
Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives were able to identify Peters as the driver of the truck. He was located inside the parish, arrested and placed in jail. The investigation into this theft is ongoing and it is likely that more arrests will be made.
Sheriff Randy Seal commented. “These homeowners had been away from their home for only a very short period of time, only to return and discover they had been burglarized. It is so frustrating to know that things you have worked hard to obtain can be taken away by a thief who is too lazy to earn an honest wage. I congratulate our detectives for being able to identify Peters and put him in jail. The next step is recovery of all the stolen items. If you have received or purchased anything from Antonio Patrick Peters, please call our office at (985) 839-3434.”

Request From Mandeville Police to Identify Suspects

The Mandeville Police Department is investigating a shoplifting incident that took place on November 18th at the Gap Store located in the Premier Center in Mandeville. We are asking for the public's help identifying three (3) females suspected of stealing over $700.00 in store merchandise. 
Anyone with information is asked to call the Mandeville Police Department at (985) 626-9711. 


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Antonio Peters was booked 11/23 on the charge of Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling

Malcolm Lee was booked 11/23 on the charges of Failure to Appear and Druving Under Suspension
Thomas Winters was booked 11/24 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Michael Bickham was booked 11/24 on the charge of Protective Order Violation
Allen Taylor was booked 11/25 on the charge of Driving While Intoxicated
Darrin Kennedy was booked 11/26 on the charge of Attachment
Steven Seals was booked 11/26 on the charges of Theft 750-5000 and Attachment
John Stafford was booked 11/27 on the charge of Simple Battery and Second Degree Battery

November 26, 2016

Thanksgiving Crash and Grab Ends in Arrest

Slidell resident Alfred Nevis (46) spent Thanksgiving in jail after he drove his vehicle through Jack’s Beverage at 1126 Old Spanish Trail in Slidell.   Slidell Police responded after a passerby reported that a vehicle had driven through the glass doors of the establishment around 5:45am Thursday morning.  The front of the store was completely destroyed. Surveillance videos recorded a gold Ford Explorer driving through the front of the store, reversing out, and then stopped in the parking lot. The eager shopper then ran into the business, and seconds later ran out with his hands full of bottles of alcohol. 
Officers and detectives found the vehicle and Alfred Nevis, who confessed, and said  he battles an addiction to crack cocaine, and the bottles of alcohol he stole were traded for crack cocaine before he returned home. 
Nevis was charged with Burglary of a Business, Criminal Damage, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 
Chief E.J. Howard stated, “while businesses are closed overnight and holidays, Law Enforcement works twenty four hours a day and seven days a week. With the help of the community Slidell Police Officers were able to quickly solve this crime within hours.”

November 23, 2016

TPSO Makes Arrests in Two Burglaries

On November 22, 2016, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office Burglary Unit arrested Matthew Estes (white male, DOB 11/11/88) and Randall Newman (white male, DOB 12/13/88) for their involvement in two separate burglary investigations
Matthew Estes is being accused of committing a vehicle burglary in the Pumpkin Center area on October 28, 2016. Matthew Estes turned himself into law enforcement after Estes was identified via a Crime Stopper tip.  At the time of his arrest Matthew Estes confessed to his involvement in the burglary. Matthew Estes is currently on felony probation for possession of stolen property and theft.
Randall Newman was identified as possible suspect in a residential burglary which occurred in the Robert area and reported on November 21, 2016. Randall Newman was located and questioned in regards to the burglary. Randall Newman subsequently confessed to the burglary of the residence. Detectives were able to recover a piece of jewelry from the burglary that was valued at $3,000.00.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Justin Williams was booked 11/22 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense) and Domestic Abuse:  Child Endangerment
Kenneth Wheat was booked 11/22 In From Court and on the charge of Contempt of Court
Quinton Balderas was booked 11/22 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense), Domestic Abuse:  Child Endangerment, Domestic Abuse Battery:  Strangulation, Public Intimidation, Simple Assault, and Cruelty to a Juvenile(s)
Gregory Dunaway was booked 11/22 on the charge of Probation Violation
Mitchell Polkey was booked 11/22 on the charges of Theft 750 or Less, Simple Burglary, Failure to Appear, and Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Information
Sarah Blackwell was booked 11/22 on the charge of Failure to Appear
Joshua Jones was booked 11/22 on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs
Donald Tate was booked 11/22 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Franklinton Man Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter

DeMontez Martin (20) of Franklinton, has pleaded guilty to shooting and killing Erick Warren (17) in Franklinton on July 10, 2014.  He was sentenced by Judge Martin Coady to 20 years in prison with eight years suspended.  The victim's family indicated they supported the plea agreement. 
One witness told Franklinton Police that Martin brought a shotgun and a pistol with him and that Martin and Warren got into a verbal disagreement over how to replace the stock on the shotgun. According to the witness, Martin picked up the pistol, waved it around, and pointed it at several people, before firing one shot at Warren. Martin then fled the house with his girlfriend and hid the weapons.
Martin, who turned himself in to police about five hours later, told police that Warren was like a brother to him and that the shooting was an accident. He said the pistol belonged to Warren, who was playing with it. Martin said he took the pistol from Warren, removed the clip and was trying to get the bullet out of the chamber when Warren reached for the gun. The gun went off accidentally, Martin said.

Slidell Man Found Guilty for Sick Toddler’s Positive Cocaine Test

Larry Bickham (60) of Slidell was guilty Friday (November 18) of second-degree cruelty to a juvenile and simple cruelty to a juvenile for allowing his 17 month old daughter to be present during the manufacturing, distribution, or purchasing of cocaine.  He faces up to life in prison if sentenced as a habitual offender.
The child was rushed to the emergency room at Ochsner Hospital in Slidell on May 1, 2014 by a temporary caregiver, after showing signs of having a seizure.  Kayla Gregg, the child's mother, was no longer living with Bickham and had left the baby with him.
District Attorney Warren Montgomery said: “At the heart of this case is a beautiful little girl, who at just 17 months old tested positive for cocaine in her system. She had no say in her father’s drug addiction. But the jury rightly held her father responsible for the harm his addiction caused this little girl.”

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Montrell Laquez Magee was booked 11/21 on the charges of Battery on a Police Officer (8 counts), Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee, Interference with Medical Treatment, Second Degree Battery, and Battery on ER Personnel or Healthcare Professional (4 counts)
Jackie Brister was booked 11/21 In From Court
Tyler Barnett was booked 11/21 on the charge of Possession of Marijuana
Homer Pittman was booked 11/21 on the charges of Aggravated Assault, Criminal Mischief (4 counts), and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm
Spencer Collins was booked 11/21 In From Court
Kimberly Owens was booked 11/21 on the charges of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Sales Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, and Contempt of Court
Justin Williams was booked 11/21 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense) and Domestic Abuse:  Child Endangerment

November 21, 2016

Help TPSO Identify These Shoplifting Suspects

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards is asking the public’s assistance in identifying the two subjects in these photos.  
The subjects are accused of a shoplifting from the Shell Station on Hoover Rd. across from Cypress Point Hospital off of Airport Road on October 24, 2016, at 6:05 p.m..  The subjects were captured on surveillance video stealing four 1-Gallon jugs of anti-freeze and four cases of Budweiser beer from the cooler.
Anyone able to identify the subjects in these photos is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 800.554.5245. 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Laura Michelle Jenkins was booked 11/20 on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Theft of Auto/Vehicle
Montrell Laquez Magee was booked 11/21 on the charges of Battery on a Police Officer (8 counts), Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee, Interference with Medical Treatment, Second Degree Battery, and Battery on ER Personnel or Healthcare Professional (4 counts)

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Steven Warren was booked 11/19 on the charges of Failure to Appear and Failure to Pay Fine 
Jesse Ordell Walker was booked 11/19 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, No License Plate, and Open Container in Vehicle
Joseph Quinton O'Berry was booked 11/19 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Improper Lane Useage
Keiasha Mosley Brister was booked 11/19 on the charges of Bench Warrant for Failure to Appear (5 counts)
Ronald Gene Hill was booked 11/19 on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm and Aggravated Assault with a Firearm
Daniel Phillip Chappetta was booked 11/18 on the charge of Simple Battery With Injury
Jared Michael Stuart 11/18 on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery
Michelle Esther Escamilla was booked 11/18 on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery
Laquisha Dyson was booked 11/18 on the charge of Failure to Return Rental Property
Monica Mikell Fogarty was booked 11/18 In For Court
Brian Bruce Long was booked 11/18 on the charges of Indecent behavior With Juvenile (2 counts) and Sexual Battery
Stephen Lane Athey was booked 11/18 on the charge of False Imprisonment

Stolen Rare $1 United States Silver Certificate

The Mandeville Police Department is currently investigating the theft of a rare $1 United States Silver Certificate bearing serial number 000000. The certificate was stolen from Basics Fine Lingerie, located at 1281 N. Causeway Blvd. Mandeville, LA. The victim last observed the certificate on October 20, 2016.
The certificate was packaged in a Paper Money Guaranty holder with a label bearing certification number 1606400-017 on the front and certification number 1606401-001 on the back.
If you have any information regarding the certificate please contact Detective Jason Readeau of the Mandeville Police Department at 985-624-3119 or 985-626-9711.

November 18, 2016

Slidell Man Gets 20 Years Child Pornography

Michael Fagan (58) of Slidell, pleaded guilty to 38 counts of pornography involving juveniles Tuesday (November 18), just as his trial on the charges was set to begin. District Judge Allison Penzato sentenced Fagan to 20 years in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence on each of the charges, but the sentences are to be served concurrently. Upon his release, Fagan also will be required to register as a sex offender.
Fagan was arrested in August, 2015, during an undercover investigation by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Cyber Crimes unit. An investigator was looking into online child pornography when he received an alert that implicated Fagan. Officers seized electronic devices at Fagan’s Slidell residence, conducted a forensic investigation on the scene and discovered dozens of images of child pornography.
Before trial, Fagan initially rejected a plea offer that would have given him 15 years in prison. 

Two New Orleans Men Tries to Outrun STPSO Deputies

Yesterday (November 17), St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Deputies attempted a traffic stop on a stolen Kia on Highway 11 but the vehicle sped off and was pursued.  The short pursuit ended when the vehicle crashed into another vehicle and a tree near Eden Isles and flipped before catching fire.  Deputies put the fire out using a fire extinguisher.  
One of the occupants was quickly taken into custody and the second person tried to elude capture by jumping into the bayou, After being informed about alligators in the bayou, the second person swam to shore and was taken into custody.  
Gerald Smith (20)  and Tyrin Hamilton (19), both of New Orleans, were arrested for Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, Resisting an Officer, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Aggravated Flight from and Officer.

Aryan Brotherhood Gang Member Sentenced to 10 Years

JEFFERY HOWARD (46), of Nicholson, Mississippi, was sentenced November 17th after previously pleading guilty to use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire and was sentenced to 10 years followed a three (3) year term of supervised release.
According to court documents, the New Orleans Joint Terrorism Task Force (“JTTF”) became aware of HOWARD, a known member of the Aryan Brotherhood, a violent white supremacy prison gang. HOWARD, who was allegedly involved in the trafficking of methamphetamine, sold drugs to an undercover law enforcement officer on numerous occasions. During one of the drug sales, HOWARD volunteered that he would be willing to commit a murder in exchange for money. HOWARD later accepted payment to commit a murder.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Michael Gazaway was booked 11/17 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Careless Operation
Tammy Lynn Branch was booked 11/17 on the charge of Probation Violation
Entre Dillon was booked 11/17 on the charges of Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling (2 counts) and Contempt of Court
Travis Singley was booked 11/17 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Disturbing the Peace - Loud and Abusive Language, and Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances
Tanya Voth was booked 11/17 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Disturbing the Peace - Loud and Abusive Language, and Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances

November 17, 2016

Washington Parish Burglar Captured in St. Tammany

When WPSO deputies responded to a burglary in progress October 22 on James Creel Road, the burglars were gone but home surveillance video provided a picture of the vehicle used in the burglary. The video was released to social media and several tips led to Entre Dillon, 29, a resident of Williams Street in Franklinton.
Detectives determined that Dillon had visited a Biloxi, Mississippi pawn shop and sold items taken in the James Creel Road burglary. Warrants were obtained for Dillon’s arrest.  Dillon was located and arrested by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Fugitive Recovery Task Force at a residence in Abita Springs. 
Dillon is now in the Washington Parish Jail where he is being held on charges of contempt of court and two counts of burglary of an inhabited dwelling. 
“This is another example of several law enforcement agencies working together to apprehend a thief,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I appreciate all the work of the various agencies in this matter and want to assure all criminals that we will continue to spread a wide net to find you. You can try to hide, but eventually we will catch you.”

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Deana Louise Clawson was booked 11/16 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Ran Stop Sign, and Obstruction of Justice
Clark Anthony Baham was booked 11/16 on the charge of Simple Battery
Jamberlynn Shawnta Brown was booked 11/16 In For Court
Tyran Ormond Williams was booked 11/16 In From Court

November 16, 2016

Teacher Pleads Guilty to Giving Students Marijuana in Brownies

A former teacher who supplied marijuana-laced brownies to two students last year has pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of marijuana to a student and two counts of obstruction of justice. Camille Breaux Brennan (31) of Mandeville, a former teacher at Archbishop Hannan High School, is set for sentencing before District Judge Raymond Childress on January 5.
Under the plea, Brennan is expected to receive a sentence of 10 years in jail with seven of the years suspended, and upon her release she will be on probation for five years. She also will be ordered to undergo substance abuse and mental health evaluations and have no unsupervised contact with minors. The victims and their parents were consulted and have indicated that they are in agreement with the plea.
Brennan admitted to giving two Hannan students brownies, laced with marijuana and then asking the students to lie in an attempt to cover up the crime. Brennan even destroyed a written statement by one of the students. The crime came to light when one of the students became ill and admitted to a family member that she had eaten two brownies containing marijuana and that a teacher had supplied them. The family member also uncovered conversations between the student and Brennan on social media in which they used made-up names and discussed the making of marijuana brownies. Brennan told authorities that she supplied the brownies to make the two students happy. Brennan was suspended immediately and then fired from Hannan.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Thomas Lavelle Davis was booked 11/15 on the charge of Second Degree Battery
Robert Harvey was booked 11/15 on the charges of Attachment (2 counts)
Matthew Stogner was booked 11/15 on the charge of Failure to Appear

William Spangler was booked 11/15 on the charges of No License Plate, Driving Under Suspension, No Proof of Insurance, Possession of Cocaine 28 grams to 200 grams, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Former Slidell Guardsman Indicted on Fraud Charges

RANDY M. KILEY, SR., (63) of Slidell, a former Sergeant Major in the Louisiana Army National Guard, was charged Thursday, November 10th, with wire fraud and making false statements in furtherance of an alleged scheme to defraud the United States Department of Defense.
The press release says Kiley misrepresented his marital status to receive increased Basic Allowance for Housing and Family Separation Allowance pay.  Although Kiley and his former spouse divorced in 2005, Kiley failed to report the change in his marital status and from July 2005 through July 2014, submitted four forms requesting the allowance pay and falsely claimed that he was either married or not divorced. 
KILEY faces a possible maximum sentence of twenty years of imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and/or five years of supervised release.
U. S. Attorney Kenneth Allen Polite, Jr. reiterated that the Indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Larry Magee was booked 11/14 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Useage, and No Drivers License
Tori Gonsoulin was booked 11/14 In From Court
Nicholes Gonsoulin was booked 11/14 In From Court
Gary Spears was booked 11/14 In For Court
Shawn Thomas was booked 11/14 In For Court

November 14, 2016

Can You Help Bogalusa Police Identify This Man?

If anyone can identify the man in these pictures, you are urged to contact the Bogalusa Police Dept. at (985) 732-6238 or call 911.  
He has several tattoo's on his arms and legs and sports a goatee. 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Richard "Ricky" Martin was booked 11/10 In From Court and on the charges of Simple Assault, Disturbing the Peace, and Contempt of Court
Jessica Archuleta was booked 11/10 on the charge of Theft 750 or Less
Anthony Parta was booked 11/10 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (3 counts)
Jacob Jones was booked 11/11 on the charges of Improper Lane Useage and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Joseph Barnmun was booked 11/12 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Open Container in Vehicle, and Speeding 41 or More Over Limit
Justin Carter was booked 11/12 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Useage, and Failure to Appear
Mark Freeman was booked 11/12 on the charge of Theft by Shoplifting Over 100, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs (2 counts)
Byron Palma was booked 11/12 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Failure to Yield to Emergency Vehicle, Resisting Arrest by Flight, Careless Operation/Accident, and No Drivers License
Larry Magee was booked 11/14 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Useage, and No Drivers License

November 11, 2016

Thomas Community Health Center Celebrates 20 Years

Riverside Medical Center, a community critical access hospital, announces the 20th celebration of Thomas Community Health Center.
On Thursday November 10th, the clinic held a celebratory barbeque lunch for its patients. Barbeque chicken, potato salad, beans and cake were served outside and the weather could not have been more perfect. Local leaders such as Mayor Fleming, Mayor-Elect Richard Dillon, Clerk of Court Johnny Crain, State Representative Melinda White, Sheriff Randy Seal, Parish President Ned Thomas and Parish Councilman Pete Thomas were in attendance.
Beginning with a vision of bringing quality health care to his hometown, Dr. Jerry Thomas opened his clinic in 1996. The clinic has grown from a small rural health clinic into a progressive healthcare center. Dr. Thomas recently added Amber Creel, Family Nurse Practitioner and Chase Branch, Physician Assistant to the center and together they see up to 700 patients per month. Under the management of Riverside Medical Center and the new CEO, Peter Sullivan, the Center is growing and adding new providers.

November 10, 2016

Hostage Report Results in Narcotics Arrest by WPSO

Yesterday (November 9), when the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office was notified that a female was being held hostage in a residence on Smith Road in Franklinton, deputies responded and learned that Laurie Burris was not a hostage but in a dispute with the four persons at her residence. 
Michael Shea Pittman (25), known to be involved in the drug trade in Washington Parish, was arrested on the charges of Possession of Schedule I Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
Another person outside the residence, Joseph Ray Carter (39) of Franklinton was arrested on the charge of Contempt of Court. 
The Complainant, Laurie Burris (58) was arrested on Failure to Appear (2 counts).
“The report by Ms. Burris of being held hostage did not work out well for her,” said Sheriff Randy Seal. “As it turns out, she was not being held hostage, but was wanted for outstanding warrants. Her call also led to the discovery of illegal narcotics and the arrests of two other individuals. This developed into a bad day for outlaws and a good day for honest law-abiding citizens of our parish. Our alert deputies and detectives did their usual good job and removed three criminals from our streets.”

Ribbon Cutting/Grand Opening of Southern Twang

Dina Burns and her staff invite everyone to the Grand Opening/Ribbon Cutting for Southern Twang, their new business located at 1054 Tanglewood Dr. in Franklinton.
The event is scheduled for Saturday, November 12, at 10:30 a.m.   Come by and enjoy the ribbon cutting ceremony, along with delicious refreshments.  Browse the store filled with items for your décor, gifts, home, and floral needs.  There is also a bridal registry. 

If you would like to contact the store, the phone number is 985-205- 5649.

The Christmas Classic Car & Truck Show is December 3

The Classic Car & Truck Show takes place at the Washington Parish Fairgrounds on Saturday, December 3.  It is in conjunction with Mile Branch Pioneer Settlement’s “Pioneer Christmas” and Varnado Store Museum’s “Christmas Festival”.  
The beautifully restored cars and trucks will be on display at the main stage area, and owners will be on hand to talk with anyone interested in their vehicles.  
There is no admission for spectators.

Burglars Sought by Pike County Sheriff's Office

Pike County Sheriff's deputies responded to an alarm activation at the BDS Country Store (Dudley Rimes Rd. Magnolia, MS) on Sunday, November 6, 2016 at approximately 12:30 am.  When they arrived they found the business's front glass broken out. Suspects entered the business and stole several boxes of cigarettes and cigars. There appeared to be a piece of asphalt used to break the glass. There was an undetermined amount of cash, and assorted tobacco products taken. 
The Sheriff's office is asking the public to help identify burglars. The above crimes are currently under investigations, anyone with additional information that will assist law enforcement with this case or cases please contact the Sheriff’s Office, 601-783-6767 or Crime Stoppers 601-684-0033.

Slidell Man Claims God Told Him to Steal GPS from Ambulance

Jason Milto (43) from Slidell told deputies he was “Following God’s message” when he took
a GPS out of an ambulance in Lacombe this past weekend. Deputies did not buy his story and he was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary.
When they responded to a nursing home report of a man trespassing at the facility, deputies located Milto and he admitted to trespassing and said he was doing so because he was “Following God’s message.” He then began emptying his pockets and one of the items in his front pocket was a GPS with a printed label reading “Medic 31”.  Milton admitted to taking the GPS out of a Fire District 3 ambulance, which was parked at a local automotive repair shop.
When asked why he took the GPS, Milto told the deputy that God led him to do it, telling the deputes “I was led to pull on the ambulance’s door handle and get in to it.” 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Anthony Voltolina was booked 11/09 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Christopher Hampton was booked 11/09 on the charge of Attachment
Laurie Burris was booked 11/09 on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts)
Micah Pittman was booked 11/09 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Joseph Carter was booked 11/09 on the charge of Contempt of Court

Washington Parish Council Makes Appointments

At their meeting Tuesday (November 7), the Washington Parish Council approved one ordinance and made three appointments by resolutions.
Following a Public Hearing, the Council approved an ordinance to amend the 2016 annual operating budget for the Washington Parish Government.  
The Council approved a resolution to appoint Tammy Magruder to the Board of Commissioners of the Washington Parish Hospital Service District No. 1 (Riverside Medical Center) to complete the term of James W. Knight, deceased.
The Council approved a resolution of appointment of Dr. Eric Payne to the Board of Commissioners of the Washington Parish Hospital Service District No. 1 (Riverside Medical Center) as per recommendation by the medical staff of Riverside Medical Center.
The Council approved a resolution of appointment of Erroll Soldani to the Board of Commissioners of the Fire Protection District No. 9 of Washington Parish. Soldani replaces Gary Fenner who resigned effective December 31, 2016.
Parish Road Supervisor Donnell Merritt presented his road report for the month of October (beginning at 7:45 into the video of the meeting).

WP Council 11072016 from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Franklinton Alderman Seat in Limbo

A Washington Parish Clerk of Court spokesperson has advised that a determination will be made tomorrow (November 10) whether or not a runoff will be necessary for a Town of Franklinton Alderman seat.  The runoff would pit candidates Darwin Sharp against Doug Brown and would be on the December 10 ballot.
Ten candidates for Aldermen vied for five seats on the Board of Aldermen in the November 8 election. The Louisiana Secretary of State unofficial returns reflect the five candidates with the most votes as:  T.J. Butler (685 votes), Patrice Crain (664 votes), John Daniel (624 votes), Heath Spears (616 votes), and Darwin Sharp (552 votes).  Doug Brown is shown as having received 549 votes.

STPSO Deputies Capure Man Wanted for Simple Escape

Kenneth Easley (49) walked off of his job site in Slidell yesterday but was taken into custody last night with the assistance of the U.S. Marshall Fugitive Task Force on the charge of Simple Escape. Easley was sentenced to 20 years in prison for 6th offense D.W.I. and was assigned to the St. Tammany Parish Work Release facility in Slidell. 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Daniel Jenkins was booked 11/07 In From Court
Jason Vincent was booked 11/07 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Thomas Schuler was booked 11/07 on the charge of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm
Joe McNally was booked 11/07 on the charge of Possession of Stolen Property
Tavarus Jenkins was booked 11/07 on the charge of Domestic Abuse: Pregnant Woman
Eric Breland was booked 11/08 on the charge of Issuing Worthless Checks 300-500
Steven Regan was booked 11/08 on the charges of Resisting an Officer and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Washington Parish Election Results

With all precincts reporting, the following are the results of today's election.
  • Richard Dillon defeated Greg Route for Mayor of Franklinton 51% to 49% and 726 votes to 704 with a  63.2% voter turnout.
  • Successful candidates for Franklinton Aldermen are T.J. Butler (685 votes), Patrice Crain (664 votes), John Daniel (624 votes), Heath Spears (616 votes), and Darwin Sharp (552 votes).
  • Scott Ard won the seat on the Bogalusa Council, District D with 53% of the vote.
  • Winners of the three seats to be filled for the Village of Angie are Darryl Knight, Gilbert Ball, and James Holmes.
  • All four tax renewals on the ballot for Bogalusa were approved.  They were for 1)Municipal Services, 2) Sewerage, Water, Streets, Parks, 3) Fire Department, and 4) Sales Tax Renewal

November 07, 2016

Con Man in Jail for Defrauding Elderly WP Resident

An elderly Washington Parish lady reported to the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office that she had been defrauded by a male and female she met at a Washington Parish flea market. The two expressed interest in furniture the lady had for sale and came to her house to see it.  While the female was supposedly using the victim's bathroom, the male engaged the victim in conversation.  However, it was a ploy for the female to have access to the rest of the victim's house.  The two then left without buying any furniture.
The victim realized her bank card was missing, and the following day $590 was charged to her card. WPSO detectives were able to trace the fraudulent transaction to a business in Marion County, Mississippi and identify the user of the card as Emmanuel Hatcher (37), a resident of Sandy Hook, Mississippi.
Detectives located Hatcher, he confessed and was arrested for issuing worthless checks (2 counts), contempt of court, fraudulent acquisition of a credit card and theft of assets from the aged. Detectives identified Hatcher’s female accomplice and are in the process of obtaining warrants for her arrest.
“This is a good example of why we should never allow any person to come into our house unless we know them,” said Sheriff Randy Seal. “Don’t be deceived by smooth talkers and always be wary of strangers. Know someone before you do business with them. There are plenty of con men just like Emmanuel Hatcher who will tell you anything in an effort to gain access to your house or your assets. Stay on alert and always call the Sheriff’s Office if you believe you have been victimized.”

WPSO Locates & Arrests Covington Man on Tangipahoa Crimes

(Update on November 5 Story)
Glenn Edward Castle (28) of Covington was arrested on November 5 by detectives from the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office on the charges of Obstruction of Justice, Simple Arson, Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm and being a fugitive from Tangipahoa Parish. He also faces charges of Armed Robbery, Second Degree Kidnapping and Aggravated Second Degree Battery in Tangipahoa Parish.
In Tangipahoa Parish, Castle is accused of robbing and kidnapping an elderly Loranger resident. After hitting the elderly man in the head with a hammer, Castle tied the victim up, stole firearms from his residence, fled with the victim in the victim’s pick-up truck, pulled over near a wooded area, and tied the victim to a tree before fleeing.
Anonymous information was received by WPSO detectives that Castle was hiding out on Sleepy Hollow Road in Franklinton and Castle was arrested without incident.  Detectives discovered a pistol believed to have been used in crimes committed in Tangipahoa Parish and located the kidnapping victim's vehicle which Castle confessed to burning. 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Marshall Yvonne was booked 11/04 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and
Careless Operation
Jessica Slade was booked 11/04 on the charge of Simple Battery
Brittney Walker was booked 11/04 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Jeannie Craig was booked 11/04 on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold
Trevor Graham was booked 11/04 on the charge of Simple Burglary
Brandon Thomas was booked 11/04 on the charge of Simple Burglary
Earl Seal was booked 11/04 on the charges of Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of Marijuana (2nd Offense), Resisting an Officer, and Driving Under Suspension
Barry Lucas was booked 11/04 on the charges of Distribution of Schedule I Drugs (2 counts) and Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substance (2 counts)
Rico Dawson was booked 11/04 on the charges of Business/Commercial Burglary and Criminal Damage
Yancy Crain was booked 11/04 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Useage, and Driving Under Suspension
Tremarrio Magee was booked 11/05 on the charges of Unauthorized Enbtry of an Inhabited Dwelling and Resisting an Officer (Flight on Foot)
Glenn Castle was booked 11/05 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Simple Arson, and Obstruction of Justice
Stephen Quinn was booked 11/05 on the charge of Contributing to Delinquency of Juvenile
Ervin Hart was booked 11/05 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Improper Lane Useage
Craig Painter was booked 11/06 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness
Alvin Magee was booked 11/06 on the charge of Contempt of Court
Jessica Fodor was booked 11/06 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Driving Under Suspension, and Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substance

Covington Man Gets 20 Years for Forcible Rape

Keith J. Lafrance (35) of Covington, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the forcible rape of a woman two years ago. 
On Sept. 22, 2014, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office responded to an anonymous call that a woman had been severely beaten at a home in Covington.  The victim said Lafrance had attacked her, punching, kicking, and hitting her repeatedly with her mobile phone so hard that it shattered. He also berated and raped her, threatened to kill her, took her car to another location, and ordered her to stay inside without her car or mobile phone until she healed. 
Lafrance had pleaded guilty in June to domestic abuse aggravated assault and domestic abuse battery, for a July 2014 incident, involving the same victim. He pushed her down, kicked, beat, and threatened her alternately with a kitchen knife and gun. Police also found Alprazolam and marijuana on him, and he also pleaded guilty to possession of both. He was sentenced to three years in prison on each of the drug charges and one year for each of the domestic abuse charges. All of the time was to be served concurrently.

Caroline Darby Memorial Christmas Wish

From Lt. Douglas Wade Sharp Memorial Fraternal Order of Police Lodge # 43
The Annual Caroline Darby Memorial Christmas Wish for 2016, formerly known as Toys for Tots, is getting under way with the Covington Fraternal Order of Police Lodge # 43. It’s that time of season again, when children are looking forward to, and getting excited, about the arrival of Santa Claus. Unfortunately, there are children that will not receive anything for Christmas unless the community steps forward with donations of toys or money.
Last year the Caroline Darby Memorial Christmas Wish put a smile on the faces of over 500 children in the Covington area that are less fortunate than others. We are asking for the community to assist us with the donation of new toys or monetary donations. Please help us in assuring the unprivileged children in our area have a Merry Christmas. Our tentative distribution date is Saturday December 10, 2016 9am-12pm at the Greater Covington Center, 317 N Jefferson St., any donation that you can assist us with will be greatly appreciated.
Please make checks payable to: FOP Lodge # 43 and mail donations to:  Covington Police Department,  
FOP Lodge # 43, PO Box 522, Covington LA 70434
For more information or if you need toys picked up, please call 985-892-8500 and ask for Tammy Bushnell.