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February 28, 2018

Funds Dispursed in 1995 Bogalusa Chemical Release

Monday, February 26, 2018, Ronnie G. Penton presented checks totaling $578,928.54 to the City of Bogalusa and the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office pursuant to an Order by 22nd JDC District Judge Richard Schwartz. The City of Bogalusa received $216, 981.00 on behalf of the Bogalusa Police  Department and $216,947.54 on behalf of the Bogalusa Fire Department. The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office received $145,000.00.
The payouts recognized the first responder efforts of the three agencies. Mayor Wendy Perrette and Sheriff Randy Seal accepted the checks from Penton, who was a prominent attorney representing plaintiffs in the aftermath of the 1995 release of nitrogen tetroxide from a railroad tank car in Bogalusa, Louisiana on October 23, 1995. The tank car was leased to and on the premises of Gaylord Chemical Corporation.  Beginning on October 23, 1995 and continuing for the next two days, the city called for the evacuation or shelter-in-place of affected sectors of Bogalusa.
Health effects were widespread and numerous lawsuits followed. Class actions on behalf of 16,600 persons in Louisiana and 4,000 in Mississippi consolidated most of the lawsuits.
Click here for settlement information.


First Responders Receive Funds From 1995 Bogalusa Chemical Spill from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Franklinton Man Gets 20 Years for Raping 14-year-old Girl

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Michael J. Fox (53) of Franklinton, pleaded guilty Monday (February 26, 2018) to raping a 14-year-old girl and was sentenced by District Judge Alan Zaunbrecher to 20 years in prison and lifetime registration as a sex offender.
Fox had been doing handyman work for the victim’s family in June 2016, when Fox asked the victim to check whether the electricity was working in a travel trailer on the property. The victim complied, and shortly afterwards, Fox appeared in the doorway of the trailer. Fox then pushed the victim onto a bed, pinned her down and raped her. The victim’s 13-year-old brother walked inside, witnessed the crime, and rushed out to tell his mother, who called police.
The victim’s family was consulted before the District Attorney’s Office proceeded with the plea. The victim, her mother, and brother were all present in court for the plea, and  approved of the sentence.

One Arrested and One Wanted in Bogalusa Home Invasion

According to a WPSO press release, Shaquille Jorvousa Lewis (24) and Damien Thompson (26) committed the crime of attempted second degree murder after they forced their way into a residence north of Bogalusa while armed with pistols, began hitting the male victim with their pistols and started shooting at him. The victim was hit once but was able to flee. He was treated at a local hospital and released.
The incident occurred on February 7, 2018 and Lewis was arrested on February 8.
Anyone with information about the shooting or the location of Damion Thompson is asked to contact Detective Corbet Hunt at 985-839-3434. Thompson is believed to be hiding out in north Bogalusa.
Lewis has an arrest record that includes domestic abuse of a pregnant woman, simple battery with injury, aggravated assault with a firearm, criminal damage to property, burglary of an inhabited dwelling, possession of stolen property, armed robbery, aggravated robbery, aggravated battery, convicted felon in possession of a firearm and illegal discharge of a weapon.
Thompson’s arrest record includes charges of attempted second degree murder, attempted attempted armed robbery and aggravated battery. 


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 26, 2018

Brandon Breland was booked 02/26 on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000
Jamikal Baker was booked 02/26 In For Court
Lewis Wilson was booked 02/26 In From Court
Joseph Denning was booked 02/26 In For Court
Brandon Prats was booked 02/26 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule III Drugs (13 counts), Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs


Pontchatoula Man Gets 99 Years for Sex Crimes

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Ross Patrick Bernard, Sr. (41) of Ponchatoula interrupted the second day of his trial Tuesday (February 27, 2018) by pleading guilty to two counts of forcible rape, seven counts of sexual battery, and one count of failure to make required notification as a sex offender. District Judge Martin E. Coady effectively sentenced Bernard to a total of 99 years in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.
Over a period of 20 years, Bernard victimized more than seven juveniles ranging in age from ten to sixteen. Bernard, who was a registered sex offender in Tangipahoa Parish, had failed to register in St. Tammany Parish when he moved to Slidell in December 2015.
Several victims and their family members gave impact statements prior to sentencing.
“I’m glad justice was served for all of the children he hurt,” said the family member of one victim. “He’s going to pay for what he did to all these children.”
Judge Coady said the victims’ pain is hard to imagine. “You victimized them for your own perverted reasons,” Coady said. 

Obituary

Bruce Dalton "Seedy' Miller
June 28, 1950 - February 26, 2018


Obituary

Genevia Thomas Strahan Knight
December 29, 1925 - February 25, 2018 


Obituary

Robert Roy Nichols, Jr.
November 4, 1926 - February 25, 2018


Obituary

David Ray Traylor
January 09, 1934 - February 24, 2018


Obituary

Elvis Dewitt "Buddy" Readlinger
August 03, 1949 - February 24, 2018


Obituary

Eric Wayne Thomas
December 19, 1983 - February 21, 2018


February 27, 2018

Reward Bumped to $10,000 in Osyka Shooting

The cash reward for credible information that leads to an arrest of the person responsible for the shooting of James M. Spears in Osyka, Mississippi on December 22, 2017 has been increased to $10,000.
Spears (83) had answered a knock on his front door, was ordered by the young black male to "get back", and was then shot in the abdomen.
This reward was made possible through private donations received specifically for use in solving this attempted murder. Please help the loved ones of James M. Spears get justice! Please contact Crime Stoppers at (601) 684-0033. Remember all calls remains anonymous!


Franklinton PD Fugitive Arrest Results in Additional Drug Charges

On February 24, 2018, Franklinton Police Department PFC Barry Galloway observed Alvester Thomas of Franklinton, an individual who was known to have an outstanding felony warrant with the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office. Officer Galloway conducted a traffic stop on Thomas.
When Officer Galloway approached the vehicle he detected a strong odor of marijuana emanating from the vehicle. Thomas was placed under arrest for the outstanding warrant. Officer Galloway also observed marijuana (Blunt) in plain sight. After other Officers arrived, Officer Galloway conducted a search of the vehicle where several packages of suspected marijuana, powder cocaine, crack cocaine and heroin were concealed inside the vehicle.
Thomas was additionally charged with being a Fugitive from another Jurisdiction; Possession with intent to Distribute Schedule II Crack Cocaine; Possession with intent to Distribute Schedule II powder Cocaine; Possession with intent to Distribute Schedule I Heroin and Possession with intent to Distribute Schedule I Marijuana.


Obituary

Lazette Thomas Brumfield
August 6, 1944 - February 24, 2018


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 24-25, 2018

Catherine Marshall was booked 02/24 on the charges of Simple Assault (2 counts) and Aggravated Battery
Tracy Mingo was booked 02/24 on the charges of Battery of a Dating Partner and Failure to Honor Written Promise (2 counts)
Jordan Maye was booked 02/24 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Drugs, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, License Plate Light Required, and Contempt of Court
David Bethel was booked 02/24 on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise
Michael Gilmore was booked 02/24 on the charge of Contempt of Court
Alvester Thomas was booked 02/24 on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), and Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs
Chad Goutierez was booked 02/25 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Drugs, Possession of Marijuana (2nd Offense), and Possession of Schedule III Drugs


February 26, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 23, 2018

Latorious Levi was booked 02/23 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Ran Stop Sign, and No Drivers License
Zachary Causey was booked 02/23 In From Court
Chad Lorio was booked 02/23 In From Court
Destyn Freeman was booked 02/23 on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold
Zachary Carrol was booked 02/23 on the charges of False Impersonation of a Peace Officer, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Special Restrictions on Lamps


February 24, 2018

Obituary

Sarah Elizabeth Sims
November 13, 1984 - February 22, 2018

Obituary

Kathy Sumrall George
December 24, 1957 - February 22, 2018


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 22, 2018

Jeremy Payne was booked 02/22 on the charges of Speeding 1-10 Over Limit, Aggravated Flight From An Officer, Driving Under Suspension, Possession of Marijuana, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1/Ecstasy, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Wendy Wells was booked 02/22 In From Court and on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise
Shelton Ard was booked 02/22 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (2 counts)
Timothy Ard was booked 02/22 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Failure to Honor Written Promise
Matthew Slade was booked 02/22 on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold
Sharon Durr was booked 02/22 on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II Drugs and Distribution of Schedule IV Drug/Drug Free Zone
Kardell Robertson was booked 02/22 on the charges of Possession With intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs and Ran Stop Sign
Denise Carroll was booked 02/22 on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts)
Shoan Polk was booked 02/22 on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II Drugs and Failure to Honor Written Promise


Slidell Man Indicted in Death of Lacombe Woman

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that a St. Tammany Parish grand jury indicted Leslie Davis, Jr. (56) of Slidell on charges of manslaughter, obstruction of justice, and accessory after the fact in the death of Krystle L. Landor of Lacombe woman on November 5, 2017.
Landor was shot to death her ex-boyfriend, John Malveaux (36) of Slidell. Malveaux then shot himself to death as police closed in to arrest him.
Davis is accused of aiding and abetting Malveaux both during the killing of Landor and afterwards. Additionally, he is accused of tampering with evidence "with the specific intent of distorting the results of any criminal investigation or proceeding."

February 23, 2018

Man Facing Attempted Murder Charges of SPD Officer

On Wednesday (February 21, 2018), a Slidell Police officer attempted to stop a U-Haul truck reported as stolen by the New Orleans Police Department. He ordered the occupants out of the truck and the passenger, Aliyah Sharrieff (19) of New Orleans exited but the driver, Ricky Cooper (32) of New Orleans fled. Cooper then circled back and attempted to run over the  officer.
Fearing for his life, the officer fired two rounds into the front of the U-haul. Cooper narrowly missed hitting both the officer and Sharrieff and fled again. Responding officers blocked the U-Haul and Cooper jumped out and fled on foot. After a brief foot chase, Cooper was taken into custody.
Copper is facing charges of Attempted Murder of a Peace Officer, Resisting an Officer, Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, and had he an outstanding warrant for Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle out of New Orleans. Sharrieff is being charged with Resisting an Officer and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
The officer who fired his weapon is being placed on administrative duty pending the final outcome of the investigation.

Driver Attempts to Run Over Off-duty Reserve Deputy

Christopher Townsend (32) of Covington is behind bars after he reportedly attempted to run over an off-duty St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s reserve deputy following a hit-and-run incident Wednesday afternoon (February 21, 2018).
The deputy was driving his personal pickup and was stopped on Penn Mill Road at the intersection of Hwy. 190 near Covington. Townsend's vehicle struck the deputy's truck, swerved back onto the highway, and continued westbound on U.S. 190. The deputy followed Townsend while calling 911 to request marked units. The vehicle continued to drive erratically, turned onto La. 1077, entered a subdivision, and made a U-turn. The deputy exited his truck, identified himself as law enforcement and ordered the vehicle to stop. Instead, Townsend accelerated in an apparent attempt to run over the deputy.
Fearing for his safety, the reserve deputy discharged his off-duty weapon at the suspect and was able to avoid being struck. Marked units from Covington Police Department arrived and were able to apprehend the Townsend. He failed a field sobriety test and refused to submit to a breathalyzer. No one was injured in the incident.
Townsend was booked on the charges of Hit and Run, Driver Must Be Licensed, Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle Upon a Peace Officer, and DWI First Offense.
Townsend has an extensive criminal history out of Texas, including arrests for aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, theft, burglary, assault of a family member, evading arrest, failure to identify, driving while intoxicated, driving under suspension and drug charges.

Former Teacher/Scout/Church Leader Gets 55 Years in Prison for Sex Crimes Involving Children

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Dennis C. Mischler, 65, of Covington, a former teacher, church and scout leader, was sentenced to a total of 55 years in prison for two counts of oral sexual battery, molestation of a juvenile, and 54 counts of pornography involving juveniles.

Before the sentence was announced, one of the victims, a family member of Mischler’s was allowed to give a “victim impact statement” on behalf of his family.  “You’re a monster,” he said to Mischler. “You tried to tear us down…You tried to make me a monster like you. You didn’t.”

Another victim, who also is a family member, submitted a four-page letter, which was read in court: “From the age of three until I was thirteen, you abused and raped me,” the letter said. “You did all this in the name of ‘showing your love,’ as you have told so many of your victims.” The letter implored Mischler to think about the young lives he destroyed. “Over decades, starting with your mentorship as a teen with NORD Theater, you purposely and strategically placed yourself in our paths. You went on to use the role of teacher, scout leader, neighbor, active church leader, family friend, mentor and uncle, to steal the innocence of our childhood.” 


Obituary

Crystal Gayle Thomas
April 23, 1990 - February 20, 2018


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 21, 2018

Cynthia Magee was booked 02/21 on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription or Order
Derek James was booked 02/21 In From Court and on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise
Brandon Knight was booked 02/21 In From Court
Brandon Lotts was booked 02/21 In For Court
Krishun Williams was booked 12/21 In From Court


$23,250 in Gift Cards Seized

St. Tammany Parish deputies with the Highway Enforcement Unit stopped a rental vehicle for improper lane use near Lacombe  Monday afternoon (February 19, 2018). A consensual search of the vehicle uncovered 100 gift cards hidden throughout the vehicle. The gift cards were loaded with a total of approximately $23,250.
Neither the driver, Carlos Sanchez-Rodriguez, nor his son, Jose Carlos Sanchez-Perez, claimed ownership of the gift cards. A post-stop investigation discovered the two were on a two-day turn-around trip from Texas and the gift cards were suspected proceeds from illegal activity.
The gift cards were seized and both occupants were released, with Carlos Sanchez-Rodriguez being issued a citation for the traffic violation.

Largest Single Heroin Seizure in St. Tammany History

St. Tammany Parish deputies located $1.5 million worth of heroin Saturday afternoon (February 17, 2018) after stopping two vehicles that were traveling together eastbound on I-12. The drivers, both nonresident aliens, provided deputies with vague explanations of a beach vacation, but their stories did not add up.
With the assistance of K9 Nero and K9 Echo, deputies searched both vehicles and found the 7.6 pounds of pure heroin hidden inside one of the vehicles. A post-stop investigation led deputies to believe the drugs were not just passing thru and were destined for sale in St. Tammany Parish.
Both drivers were arrested in connection with the seizure and are being held on a $750,000 bond for possession and conspiracy to distribute heroin as well as the traffic violations.

Mandeville Man Gets 40 Years for Rape of Juveniles

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that David Joseph Murray (50) of Mandeville pleaded guilty Tuesday (February 20, 2018) to two counts of forcible rape and one count of molestation of a juvenile. He was sentenced by District Judge Reginald Badeaux to 40 years each on the rape counts and 20 years on the molestation charge. The sentences are to be served at the same time.
Murray pleaded guilty to raping a girl who was 11 years-old when the abuse began and who was pregnant at 13 years-old. The victim's mother discovered Facebook and text messages between Murray and her daughter in which Murray referred to the unborn child as his baby.
Inappropriate sexual messages also were found on a computer between Murray and the victim in Jefferson Parish, where he was living at the time. During the investigation, a second victim disclosed that she was 7 to 8 years-old when Murray began engaging in sexual activities with her. 

Robber of Slidell Restaurant Gets 35 Years in Prison

Michael Troy Donato (26) of Slidell was sentenced Tuesday (February 20, 2018) by District Judge Martin Coady to 35 years in prison after Donato plead guilty to attempted first degree murder (2 counts), armed robbery with a firearm (4 counts) and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
In January 2017, Donato robbed several patrons at gunpoint inside Mr. Joe's Chinese Restaurant on Gause Boulevard in Slidell. As Slidell Police Department officers arrived,  Donato opened fire on the officers. Officers returned fire, striking Donato in the abdomen and leg.
One of the robbery victims was seriously injured when she fled the restaurant, attempted to hide behind a vehicle to avoid the gunshots, and was run over by a car whose driver was also trying to flee the gunfire.
At the time of his plea, Donato gave a statement taking responsibility for his actions, apologizing to the victims, and thanking the officers involved for their sacrifice every day and for sparing his life that day. 

Obituary

Raesa Rayne Lewis
February 20, 2018


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 19-20, 2018

Carey Gendron was booked 02/19 In For Court and on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise (2 counts)
Reynaldo Jones was booked 02/19 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Attachment
Crystal Duncan was booked 02/20 on the charges of Failure to Pay Fine and Failure to Appear
Jason Duncan was booked 02/20 on the charges of Contempt of Court and Simple Burglary
Jesse McDowell was booked 02/20 on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Domestic Abuse/Pregnant Woman, Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts), Aggravated Domestic Abuse Assault, and Simple Battery
Barrett Dunaway was booked 02/20 on the charges of Conspiracy to Possess Narcotics and Attachment
Russell Desalvo was booked 02/20 on the charges of Attachment (2 counts)
Genger Cossich was booked 02/20 on the charge of Attachment
Scottie Route was booked 02/20 In For Court


February 21, 2018

WPSO Deputy Arrests Armed MS. Man With Drugs

Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputy Tyler Lindsey stopped a vehicle Sunday (February 18, 2018) at the intersection of Highway 21 and Paige Road north of Bogalusa due to no license plate displayed on the vehicle.
Both the driver and passenger stated they had no weapons. However, Deputy Lindsey observed that the passenger, Chantellus Parkman (34) of Bassfield, MS.,  seemed extremely nervous and was shifting positions in the vehicle. Parkman was asked to exit the vehicle and submit to a search for weapons. Parkman refused, stating, “I’m not getting out of the car. I gave you my ID and I don’t have to get out of the car.” At this point, Deputy Lindsey advised Parkman that if he did not exit the vehicle, he would be removed. Parkman then exited the vehicle. When asked if he had a weapon, Parkman stated, “My gun is on my side.”
With the assistance of Deputy Roy Scroggs who had arrived on the scene, Parkman was detained and a fully loaded semi-automatic pistol was removed from inside of his waistband. Parkman did not have a concealed weapon permit, but he did have marijuana and Ecstasy in his pocket.
Parkman was arrested on the charges of carrying a concealed weapon, possession of marijuana, possession of Ecstasy and possession of controlled dangerous substances with a weapon present. Parkman was placed in jail but released on $3,500 bond on February 19, 2018. The driver was issued a citation for not having a license plate and was released from the traffic stop.

Obituary

Sea Willow Warner
December 01, 1924 - February 19, 2018


Obituary

Christopher "Turbo" Carnegie
September 09, 1978 - February 18, 2018


Obituary

Stacy Lynn Pittman
June 19, 1985 - February 19, 2018


Obituary

Green Ellis, Jr.
December 20, 1925 - February 16, 2018


Obituary

Roosevelt Hawthorne
March 21, 1946 - February 13, 2018


Obituary

JoAnna Fortenberry Bickham
October 04, 1942 - February 13, 2018


Obituary

Latreed D'quinton Allen
August 10, 1978 - February 12, 2018


February 20, 2018

Two School Threats in Tangipahoa – One Bogus and One Credible

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Edwards, in a joint press release with Tangipahoa Parish School Superintendent Mark Kolwe, reports they are investigating “threatening” social media posts that began circulating late Sunday night (February 18, 2018) and have increased security.
The TPSO was notified at approximately 10:00 p.m. Sunday night of the potential threat. Monday morning, detectives identified a juvenile student, enrolled in a Tangipahoa area school, who had shared an alleged social media threat from a 17- year-old family member. The post stated, “Don’t go to school Monday. A school shooting is going to happen and they are warning everyone. But the one’s who do show up there are doing an investigation.”
The post is believed to have originated from a social media site referencing an incident that was to occur at an out of state school and had no bearing on Tangipahoa Parish. However, rumors of the post went viral causing fear and panic among our community members resulting in appropriate actions being taken by the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Tangipahoa Parish School System.
One 17-year-old female was arrested and charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor. The minor child has been charged with terrorizing.
Simultaneously- in a separate incident - deputies intercepted  an additional threat that was made by an 18-year-old male student, Troy Webber (pictured above) of Amite, threatening to shoot his fellow students and faculty upon returning to school Monday morning. Webber was taken into custody and charged with terrorizing. 

Obituary

William E. "Sonny" Byrd
September 21, 1935 - February 18, 2018


Obituary

Arthur Warren "A.W." Reed
November 03, 1934 - February 17, 2018


Obituary

Mary Beth Magee
February 14, 1942 - February 17, 2018


Bogalusa: No Charges Against Truck Driver in Bike Crash

On Tuesday, (February 13, 2018) the Bogalusa Police Department received a call from the emergency room staff at Our Lady Of Angels Medical Center about a four year-old child being treated for injuries after being struck by an 18-wheeler while riding his bicycle. The child was airlifted to North Oaks Hospital in Hammond where he underwent surgery to repair a broken femur.
Officers learned that an 18-wheeler log truck, traveling south in the 500 block of Avenue D, made a left turn onto W. 6th Street and struck the child with his empty trailer.  The driver was identified and, on Monday (February 19, 2018) came to the BPD Detective Division for questioning.
Detectives concluded the child was riding his bicycle and ran into the truck or trailer as it made the turn onto W. 6th Street and found no evidence to suggest negligence or criminal behavior on the part of the driver. 


Motorcyclist Killed in Crash Near Franklinton

Sunday morning (February 18, 2018), Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L investigated a fatal motorcycle crash on LA 450 north of LA 10 in Washington Parish that claimed the life of Matthew A. Bilello (47) of Franklinton.
Troopers to determined that the crash occurred as Bilello was riding a 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycle northbound on LA 450 and failed to negotiate a left-hand curve. The motorcycle traveled off the right side of the roadway, Bilello was ejected from the motorcycle and struck a culvert.
Impairment is not considered as a contributing factor in this crash. 

Obituary

Robert Magee
October 14, 1948 - February 08, 2018


Two Missing From Pearl River


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 16-18, 2018

Ezekiel Odom was booked 02/16 on the charge of Probation Violation
Zachary Causey was booked 02/16 In From Court
Jonathan Stogner was booked 02/16 on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise
Raymond Johnson was booked 02/17 on the charge of Theft 5000-25000
Damion Owens was booked 02/17 on the charges of Probation and Parole Hold, Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling, Simple Burglary, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm
Chantellus Parkman was booked 02/18 on the charges of Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present
Frank Bolton was booked 02/18 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness


February 17, 2018

Former Church Pastor From Mt. Hermon Indicted

United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that Otho Schilling (58) of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana, was indicted February 15, 2018 by a federal grand jury for Theft of Government Funds.
According to the indictment, Schilling, while the pastor of a church in Bush, between 2005-2016, required the church to pay his personal expenses, such as his health and car insurance premiums, car payments, and personal land note in lieu of the church paying him a salary directly. During this period, Schilling was receiving Retirement, Survivors and Disability Insurance (“RSDI”) from the Social Security Administration in the amount of $1,728 a month.  Schilling concealed both his earnings and employment from the Social Security Administration.   Accordingly, Schilling fraudulently received over $200,000.00 in RSDI benefits he was not entitled to due to his employment with the church.
If convicted, Schilling faces a maximum penalty of ten (10) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment.

Schoolbus Wreck Near Franklinton Results in Injuries

After school hours on Thursday (February 15, 2018), a Washington Parish school bus was involved in an accident on Highway 25 north of Franklinton. The bus had stopped  to offload students and a pickup truck slammed into the rear of the bus.
The driver of the truck was the only occupant and was transported by ambulance to Riverside Medical Center in Franklinton and airlifted from there to North Oaks Hospital in Hammond. Several students and the bus driver reported minor injuries and were assessed by Northshore Emergency Services ambulance personnel on the scene. One student was transported by ambulance to Riverside Medical Center and a few more were transported by parents.
Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputies responded to the scene along with troopers from the Louisiana State Police. Washington Parish Fire District personnel assisted with traffic control.
Sheriff Randy Seal commented. “All of the details of the crash will be sorted out by the State Police who are actively working the scene. Meanwhile, we offer our comfort to the truck driver and his family as well as to the students and their families. It is always frightening to learn that a school bus was involved in an accident and we are grateful that no students were seriously injured.”
As of 4:30 pm Friday (February 16, 2018), no further details have been forthcoming from the Louisiana State Police.

Obituary

Gloria Hall Keitch
August 30, 1933 - February 16, 2018


Obituary

Tiffany Lynn Brabham
August 17, 1988 - February 15, 2018


AG Landry Announces Two Arrests for Child Pornography

Attorney General Jeff Landry today (February 16, 2018) announced the arrests of Urban Kinchen (61) of Springfield and Johnathan Croy (36) of Ponchatoula on multiple child pornography charges.
Kinchen was arrested on fifteen counts of Possession of Sexual Abuse Images/Videos of Children (under the age of 13).
Croy was arrested on four counts of Possession of Sexual Abuse Images/Videos of Children (under the age of 13) and two counts of Distribution of Sexual Abuse Images/Videos of Children (under the age of 13).
“My office and I remain committed to finding and apprehending those accused of Internet crimes against children,” said General Landry. “With the assistance of our law enforcement partners, we will continue to make our communities safer by taking child predators off the streets.”
To report child exploitation, call the LBI at 800-256-4506; callers do not have to give their names. Attorney General Jeff Landry’s Cyber Crime Unit has investigated thousands of computer crimes that have victimized children from infants to 16 years of age. 

Obituary

Linda Cupp
April 6, 1943 - February 15, 2018


Obituary

Woodie Watson
February 13, 1952 - February 14, 2018


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 15, 2018

John Cooper was booked 02/15 In For Court
Mark Amos was booked 02/15 on the charge of Failure to Appear
Jairo Arboleda was booked 02/15 In From Court and on the charge of Probation Violation
Eric Causey was booked 02/15 on the charge of Resisting Arrest by Flight


February 16, 2018

Covington: Child Dies after Being Struck by Vehicle

A 7-year-old boy died following a traffic incident that occurred Thursday morning (February 15, 2017) at The Shoppes Nord du Lac shopping center on Highway 21 near Covington.
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reports that the boy had been struck by a pick-up truck in the back northeast corner of the parking lot. The child was transported via ambulance to an area hospital where he succumbed to his injuries.
Circumstances surrounding the incident are still under investigation at this time.
As is standard protocol involving traffic fatalities, a standardized field sobriety test was administered and the driver, 32-year-old Nathaniel Fornea of Madisonville, voluntarily submitted to a blood alcohol screening. Impairment is not suspected and no citations have been issued at this time.
The identity of the child is not being released due to his age.

WP Sheriff's Office Seeks Debit Card Thieves

Monday, February 13, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office was notified by a parish resident that unknown persons had used the resident’s bank card at a business on Highway 10 in the Richardson community to purchase several hundred dollars of merchandise. Detectives responded to the scene and were able to retrieve video from the store’s surveillance system.
The suspects are two young adults, a male and a female. They purchased a shopping cart full of merchandise, including a DVD player. Anyone able to identify the suspects is asked to contact Lt. Tom Anderson at (985) 661-2024.
Sheriff Randy Seal asks for the public’s assistance. “These thieves need to be in our jail. If you can identify these persons, do the right thing and let us know who they are so we can locate and arrest them.”

Boyfriend and Dealer Arrested for Murder in Overdose Death

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested two men, reportedly the victim's boyfriend and the dealer who sold the drugs, on murder charges following the overdose death of Shantell Jackson (23) of Slidell that occurred in October 2017.
On October 16, 2017, Jackson died after being brought to a local hospital suffering from an apparent heroin overdose. STPSO detectives determined that Jackson’s boyfriend, Warren Brown (25), purchased the heroin from Oren Bowens (39) of Slidell. and that Brown and Jackson had both used the heroin prior to Jackson’s deadly overdose.
Brown, who was already incarcerated in the St. Tammany Parish Jail on a probation violation, was re-booked for on the charge of Second-degree Murder. Bowens was located late Thursday night (February 8, 2018) and, in addition to Second-degree Murder, was charged with Possession of Schedule III CDS and Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS (Heroin) after drugs were located while detectives were executing a search warrant at his home.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 13-14, 2018

Chad Maus was booked 02/13 on the charges of No Seat Belt and Driving With Suspended License Due to Previous DUI
Joseph Denning was booked 02/13 In For Court
Theron Bickham was booked 02/14 on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense)
Tijuanna Toomer was booked 02/14 on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Domestic Abuse Battery
Blaine Stewart was booked 02/14 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Careless Operation
Anthony Turner was booked 02/14 on the charges of Conspiracy to Possess Narcotics and Principals
Jo Hart was booked 02/14 on the charge of Exploitation of the Infirm
Shirley Hart was booked 02/14 on the charges of Exploitation of the Infirm and Forgery (2 counts)


February 13, 2018

Wanted by the Bogalusa Police Department


Obituary

Sandra Gail Davis Bloom
August 03, 1953 - February 12, 2018


Obituary

Teresa D. Hayman
April 8, 1960 - February 11, 2018


Slidell Man Arrested on Obscenity Charge

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies have arrested a Slidell-area man for obscenity after he was found masturbating on the side of the road near a retirement community.
When a  deputy responded Sunday evening (February 11, 2018) to a report of a suspicious person, he located Kevin Frazier (54) of Slidell on the side of Dauphin Street. He was kneeling on the side of the roadway, nude from the waist down with his pants around his ankles. Frazier was in plain view of passing motorists, nearby homes and the residents of the nearby senior living center.
He was taken into custody and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on one count of Obscenity.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 12, 2018

Bryan Schexnider was booked 02/12 on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling (2 counts), Criminal Damage to Property Under 500, Simple Battery, and Resisting an Officer (3 counts)
Lakeviae James was booked 02/12 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Possession of Marijuana (2nc Offense), Open Container in Vehicle, and Resisting an Officer
Jeremiah Carr was booked 02/12 on the charge of Possession of Marijuana (2nd Offense)
Chad Allen was booked 02/12 on the charge of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm
James Singletary was booked 02/12 on the charges of Domestic Abuse battery (3 counts)
Lanika Warren was booked 02/12 on the charges of Theft by Shoplifting Over 100, Criminal Trespass, and Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot
Jermaine Wilson was booked 02/12 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
John Arrington was booked 02/12 on the charge of Parole Violation
Quenton Haynes was booked 02/12 on the charge of Contempt of Court
Markus Mark was booked 02/12 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule III Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Drugs, Possession of Schedule V Drugs, and Distribution of Schedule 1 Drugs
Shelby Lumpkin was booked 02/12 on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise and Attachment
Bruce Varnado was booked 02/12 on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Possession of Marijuana, Speeding 21-30 Over Limit, No Drivers License, Expired License Plate, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction


Franklinton Man Arrested for Multiple Charges of Sexual Behavior With Juveniles

Acting on information provided by concerned parents, the detective division of the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into allegations that a Franklinton man had been engaged in sexual behavior with juveniles.
The initial investigation resulted in the February 7, 2018 arrest of Jonathan D. Young (34), a resident of Franklinton, on two counts of indecent behavior with juveniles. He was released on February 8, 2018 after posting a $35,000 bond.
On February 9, Young was arrested again after more juveniles came forth with allegations. He was returned to the Washington Parish Jail charged with ten counts of molestation of juveniles. He remains in jail with bond on the new charges set at $225,000.
On February 12, an additional juvenile came forward with allegations of sexual misconduct. Young was arrested again for sexual battery and indecent behavior with a juvenile. Bond will be set this week on the new charges.
WPSO reports that the investigation continues and it is suspected that other incidents may have occurred in Tangipahoa Parish and Concordia Parish, as well as Franklin County, Mississippi. Any person who may have knowledge of other crimes committed by Young is asked to contact Detective Demmie Rice at (985) 839-3434, extension 2004.
Sheriff Randy Seal commented. “This is so tragic for each of these young victims as well as their families. If your child has had contact with Young, please question them carefully about the relationship. If you have any suspicion of inappropriate behavior with your child, please contact Detective Rice.”

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 9-11, 2018

Jonathan Young was booked 02/09 on the charges of Molestation of a Juvenile (10 counts)
Anthony Parta was booked 02/09 on the charge of Probation Violation
Thomas Minarik was booked 02/09 on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Unauthorized Entry of a Place of Business, and Criminal Damage to Property
Evan Sholar was booked 02/10 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Operation, and Open Container in Vehicle
Tracy Drennan was booked 02/10 on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000
Akentha Carter was booked 02/11 on the charges of Obstruction of Justice, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence (2 counts), and Battery on a Police Officer (2 counts)
Jade Melton was booked 02/11 on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Kevin Crutchfield was booked 02/11 on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of Marijuana, Resisting an Officer, and Failure to Honor Written Promise
Christopher Sorey was booked 02/11 on the charges of Aggravated Assault-Peace Officer With Firearm (2 counts), Resisting an Officer, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness
Joshua Gault was booked 02/11 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Resisting an Officer (3 counts), Driving Under Suspension, Drivers License Expired, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Kevin Prats was booked 02/11 on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs


Free & Low-Cost Training for Small Business in February


February 10, 2018

MCAA King & Queen Toasted in Bogalusa

Toasting of the MCCA King & Queen 2018 from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Reward Offered in Washington Parish Church Arson

Source:  Bob Warren - NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune
The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives today (February 9, 2018) said it is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of whoever is responsible for burning down a Washington Parish church February 1, 2018.
The ATF, the state Fire Marshal's Office and the state Department of Agriculture and Forestry are investigating the arson fire that consumed the Monroe Creek Missionary Baptist Church north of Louisiana 436, as well as a series of wildfires near the church between January 25 and February 1, ATF said in a news release.
The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office said several fire districts as well as the department in Franklinton responded to the church fire. No one was reported injured in the fire.
Anyone with information about the fires should call the ATF at 1-888-283-3473, the agency said. 

Folsom Man Guilty of Attempted Molestation and Aggravated Incest

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that a St. Tammany Parish jury found Todd Bennett (30) of Folsom guilty Friday (February 9, 201) of attempted molestation of a juvenile and aggravated incest of a victim under 13. He faces 25 to 99 years in prison when he is sentenced March 27, 2018 before District Judge Richard A. Swartz, Jr.
The abuse began when the victim was 10 to 12 years old, and Bennett was 18 to 20 years old. On multiple occasions through the years, Bennett touched her genitals, forced her to touch him, and once attempted to rape her. The victim testified during the trial that he also twice forced her to perform oral sex on him. She said she was afraid to tell anyone because Bennett had made threats.
As a teenager, the victim confided in a boyfriend about some of the abuse, and the boyfriend confronted Bennett on Thanksgiving Day in 2012. That’s when the victim’s parents learned about the abuse and contacted police. Bennett then fled St. Tammany and wasn’t arrested until July 2014, when he was picked up in Arkansas on the St. Tammany Parish warrant.

Obituary

Vivian S. Temples
July 30, 1940 - February 8, 2018


Obituary

Jesse James "JJ" Grice, Jr.
August 22, 1970 - February 08, 2018


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 8, 2018

Orrin Thomas was booked 02/08 on the charges of Careless Operation, Expired License Plate, Driving Under Suspension, Public Intimidation, Resisting an Officer, Criminal Damage, and Battery on a Police Officer
Shaun Woodward was booked 02/08 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Debra Walker was booked 02/08 on the charge of Possession of Heroin
Stanley Miller was booked 02/08 on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, and Domestic Abuse Battery
Brandon Walker was booked 02/08 License Plate Improper Lighting, Driving Under Suspension, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Angela Wilson was booked 02/08 on the charges of Possession of Heroin and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Shaquille Lewis was booked 02/08 on the charge of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder
Billy Dixon was booked 02/08 on the charges of Speeding 21-30 Over Limit, Driving Under Suspension, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule V Drugs
Dodecanese Alexander was booked 02/08 on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise (2 counts) an Aggravated Domestic Violence Battery
Amanda Buras was booked 02/08 on the charge of Probation Violation
Benjamin Newcomb was booked 02/08 In From Court
Benjamin Sheridan was booked 02/08 on the charge of Aggravated Assault


February 09, 2018

Armed Robbers Hit Dollar General Near Franklinton

The Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office responded Tuesday (February 6, 2018) at 7:00 pm to a report of an armed robbery at a Dollar General Store on Highway 25 south of Franklinton.
Store security video shows three masked persons enter the business, each carrying a pistol. Their faces were covered and each wore gloves. One appeared to be female. A female customer was forced to lie on the floor and her car keys were taken. The robbers tried to enter the female customer's car but they could not unlock the door.
The trio fled on foot, headed south on Highway 25 to a waiting vehicle which was out of sight of the store. The robbers got away with an undetermined amount of money and a large amount of cigarettes.
If any person has information pertaining to this robbery, please call Detective Tom Anderson at (985) 661-2024. 


St. Tammany Parish Jail Inmate Guilty of Obscenity

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that a St. Tammany Parish jury found Stanton Guillory (23) guilty Wednesday (February 7, 2018) of three counts of obscenity.
At the time that he was charged with obscenity, Guillory was a federal inmate, housed at the St. Tammany jail on various federal charges, including murder and conspiracy to commit murder in a murder-for-hire scheme that resulted in the death of a federal witness.
The obscenity charges stem from three different occasions last year, when Guillory exposed himself and masturbated in front of female workers in the jail.
Assistant District Attorney Blake Peters and Fred Treschwig, a third year law student in the Prosecution Clinic at Loyola University, prosecuted the case. The trial lasted approximately two hours, and the jury deliberated about 52 minutes before returning the guilty verdict.

Obituary

Josephine Johnson
October 07, 1946 - February 07, 2018


Obituary

Robert E. Johnson
March 25, 1936 - February 07, 2018


Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for February 6-7, 2018

Kimberly Cooke was booked 02/06 on the charge of Probation Violation
Jonathan Young was booked 02/07 on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile (2 counts)
Branden Knight was booked 02/07 In From Court
Tracey Knight was booked 02/07 on the charge of Contempt of Court



February 08, 2018

Krewe of Pepe Rolls Through Franklinton Sunday

Sunday, February 11th, the Krewe of Pepe will roll through the streets of Franklinton. The parade will begin at 1:00 pm at Jack Brown's Supermarket, travel downtown, and end near the Franklinton Primary School. 

"Party Like a Rock Star" with MCCA XXXVIII in Bogalusa

The floats, the music, the throws, the crowds are coming up this weekend. Bogalusa's Krewe of MCCA gets things started Saturday, February 10 at 1 pm. There is an almost certain chance of weather making an impact. 

Fatal Shooting at Sandy Hook, MS Being Investigated

The Walthall County Sheriff's Office reports that around 6:30 am this morning (February 7, 2018) they received a 911 call reporting a shooting on North Patten Rd., Sandy Hook, Mississippi. An ambulance and deputies were dispatched. The victim, Lejill Lewis, was transported to Walthall General Hospital where she was later pronounced deceased.
JC James, Jr. (51) of Knoxo Rd., Tylertown, Mississippi, was taken into custody at the Walthall County Sheriff’s Department and being held pending charges.
“We need anyone who had contact with JC James, Jr. on Tuesday evening or Wednesday and has information regarding this case to contact our office immediately at 601-876-3481 or Walthall County Crime Stoppers at 601-467-1878.” says Sheriff Kyle Breland.
As with all cases, the Defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Mandeville-area Man Arrested on Obscenity Charge

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested Craig Nolinske (63) of Mandeville Tuesday (February 6, 2018) after he reportedly exposed himself while watching women in the Covington area.
STPSO deputies responded to a report from a female who stated she was stopped at a traffic light at Hwy 190 and Holiday Blvd. when a man in a vehicle pulled up beside her, rolled down his window, leaned his seat back and began staring at her while making motions which led her to believe he was masturbating.
She was able to provide the license plate number of the vehicle, and deputies located the vehicle and conducted a traffic stop.
Nolinske stated his pants were open and his hand was in his underwear but stated he was only adjusting his underwear. A consensual search of Nolinske’s phone uncovered a video made earlier in the day of him exposing himself and masturbating while parked in the Claiborne Hill Shopping Center parking lot.

Big Multi-Agency Drug Bust in Tangipahoa Parish

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports that authorities with the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), City of Hammond Police Department Narcotics Division and the State of Louisiana Probation and Parole executed a narcotics related search warrant on February 2, 2018 in  Natalbany and arrested six on various narcotics related charges. One subject is still at large.
Located at the residence and in vehicles were 94 grams of crack cocaine, over 1,000 dose units of suspected MDMA, over 5 pounds of marijuana, approximately 1 gram of heroin, approximately 58  grams of powder cocaine, over $8,000 in currency and a loaded .45 caliber handgun.
Arrested were Michael Toefield (46) of Independence, Atrell Anderson (23) of Independence, Freddie Hunter (56) of Independence, Damin Baker (30) of Hammond, Michael Alexander (34) of Independence, and Kimberly Sims (36) of Natalbany. 


Tangipahoa: Armed Robbery Suspect Arrested – Two Wanted

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports that armed robbery suspect Christopher Rogers (17) of Tickfaw was arrested Monday, February 5, 2018. Rogers is accused of committing multiple armed robberies throughout the parish, including the armed robbery of Dollar General Store in Natalbany on January 20, 2018, the attempted armed robbery of the Black Cat Grocery in Independence on January 22, 2018, and the armed robbery of the Subway in Hammond on January 28, 2018.
Rogers has reportedly confessed to these crimes and that the motive was to gain the capital to invest in the business of illicit marijuana sales.
Rogers is also accused of having two male accomplices: one serving as a getaway driver and another who stood guard while the crimes were being committed.
Anyone knowing the identities of Rogers' accomplices is asked to please contact Crime Stoppers at 800.554.5245.

Obituary

Debra Ann Cotton
August 13, 1963 - February 1, 2018 


Obituary

Atwood Judge Luter
June 15, 1938 - February 4, 2018


Obituary

Patricia Ann Burton
May 04, 1947 - February 02, 2018


February 07, 2018

Franklinton Native is MHP Troop M 'Trooper of the Year'


It's Back! RCC Boxing and Arts & Crafts Sale

You may have missed it in the past, but don't miss out again on some great entertainment at the Rayburn Correctional Center Terry Wood Memorial "King of Hearts" Boxing Championship and Arts & Crafts Sale.