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.”