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June 30, 2020

Woman Pleads Guilty To Aggravated Animal Cruelty In Case Of Dog With Missing Legs

District Attorney Warren Montgomery announced that Lynette Victor, age 51 and of Slidell, pleaded
guilty Tuesday (June 30, 2020) to aggravated cruelty to animals in a case involving a dog named Buddy.

District Judge Raymond S. Childress sentenced Victor to seven years in the Department of Corrections, which was suspended, three years of probation, a $5,000 fine, and restitution for veterinary expenses. Victor also is prohibited from owning any animals during the duration of her probation, and he ordered a mental health evaluation and any recommended treatment. The charge does not carry mandatory jail time, and the judge has discretion to sentence a first-time offender to probation.

“We are happy that we achieved justice in this case,” Montgomery said. “We were all outraged, as you were, by the criminal mistreatment of Buddy, which is why we pursued the most serious charge warranted by the facts of the case. We appreciate the judge’s order that the defendant may not own or possess an animal as a part of her sentence. We also urge would-be pet owners to consider the major responsibilities of owning and taking care of a pet properly before bringing a pet into your life. We are thankful for the tremendous community support and concern for Buddy, who is now doing well.”

Victor was arrested in September 2019, after Buddy, a mixed Dachshund-Chihuahua, was discovered, abandoned in a trailer park, suffering from severe malnutrition and internal parasites, and missing his two hind legs. Victor told investigators that the dog, who belonged to her daughter, had been shot by an unknown person in February and had begun dragging his legs. The mother and daughter took him to a veterinarian but were not able to afford the recommended treatment, and the veterinarian sent them home with prescribed medication and instructions to wrap the dog’s legs. The daughter created a “Go Fund Me” campaign to assist with the dog’s medical care but was unable to generate any funding.

The mother admitted that, since the dog belonged to her daughter, she required her daughter to take care of him. The daughter claimed she must have bandaged the dog’s legs too tightly, causing them to fall off.

Buddy, who has a new family, has recovered from his injuries and is mobile, thanks to a special wheelchair.

Click here for a previous related story.

This Week on "Washington Parish Community Connect"

Each week WP Community Connect Video Series features different local community organizations and the resources they provide for Washington Parish. This week features Bogalusa Mayor Wendy Perrette, Jamie Bruins Cyprian, and Bogalusa Councilwoman Gloria Kates.

Greensburg Police Officer Arrested on Multiple Charges

On Monday, June 29, 2020 before 3:00 PM, Investigators from the Louisiana State Police Special
Victims Unit arrested 20-year-old Greensburg Police Officer Cauy Christopher Phillips of Amite.

The Special Victims Unit began an investigation in May 2020 into accusations that Phillips had inappropriately battered a juvenile in a sexual way. After an interview, Phillips was booked into the St. Helena Parish Jail for 3 counts of Sexual Battery and 2 counts of Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor.

The LSP Special Victims Unit works to rescue and seek justice for the victims of crimes involving the exploitation of children and the trafficking of humans for sex or labor. The public plays an important role in identifying suspects accused of these crimes, and is urged to report criminal or suspicious activity. The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through an anonymous reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be found by visiting http://la-safe.org/?fbclid=IwAR2WgC1P1h3oEG_A4DhvOzwL8wsAgZmuj_0-RLi0EWq3CXrAAhqJENi2QOY and clicking on the “Suspicious Activity” link.

Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is joining other local law enforcement agencies in a
coordinated effort to reduce impaired driving fatalities during the Fourth of July weekend. As part of the state-wide Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign, additional deputies will be assigned to saturated patrol efforts to target impaired drivers.

The campaign, which is coordinated and funded by the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission, will also include DWI checkpoints. “We want people to know that we are out there, not just this weekend, but every day looking for drivers that are under the influence, and we hope these checkpoints serve as a deterrent to drinking and driving. If you choose to consume alcohol, don’t drive.”

Remember that driving under the influence of illegal narcotics can also lead to a DWI arrest. In fact, some legal medications can impair your ability to drive. Always read warning labels and instructions on prescription and over-the-counter medications. “Our attitudes and actions have to change when it comes to drunk driving,” Sheriff Smith said. “If you choose to drink and drive—and it is a choice—you risk not only your own life but the lives of innocent people in our community.”

Sheriff Smith thanks citizens for their cooperation and patience when passing through these checkpoints and for recognizing the importance of raising awareness for safety issues.

STPSO Requesting the Public's Help in Two Hit & Runs

(BOLO 1)

(BOLO 2)


Man Arrested After Fleeing From Franklinton Police

The Franklinton Police Department has advised of the arrest yesterday (Monday, June 29, 2020) of
Zachary Scott Davis (29) on the charges of Aggravated Flight from an Officer and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Davis was arrested on a warrant after an incident on June 23, 2020. At that time, FPD officers were notified of a reckless driver entering the town limits. Officers attempted to make a traffic stop; however, Davis reportedly fled in his vehicle at a high rate of speed.

On June 29, 2020, officers and WPSO deputies located Davis at a residence on Joby Magee Rd. Davis was taken into custody and, at the time of arrest, was reportedly found to be in possession of drug paraphernalia. Davis was booked into the Washington Parish Jail as a fugitive on a warrant of Aggravated Flight from an Officer and additionally charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Chief Brown expresses his gratitude to the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office for their assistance and to the work by FPD officers.

Obituary

Reverend Joseph "Joe" Blackwell
December 07, 1926 - June 26, 2020

Washington Parish Jail Bookings June 29, 2020

Bethany Hunt was booked on the charge of Simple Battery With Injury
Louanna Primeaux was booked on the charge of Simple Battery With Injury
Jeffrey Miley was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts), Contempt of Court (3 counts), and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Zachary Davis was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Aggravated Flight from an Officer
Lenard Lee was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts), Failure to Pay Fine, and Contempt of Court (3 counts)

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today in History for June 30th

AP Top Stories June 30, 2020 AM

June 29, 2020

Corrections Sgt. Barry Cooper is WPSO Officer of the Quarter

Washington Parish Sheriff Randy Seal recognized Corrections Sgt. Barry Cooper for his selection as
Officer of the Quarter, April – June 2020. Sgt. Cooper, a recent graduate of the Louisiana Peace Officers Standards and Training Commission Academy, was the unanimous selection of his peers.

A resident of Mt. Hermon, Sgt. Cooper manages internal investigations for the jail and has been instrumental in prohibiting the introduction of contraband. Chief of Corrections Jim Miller describes Sgt. Cooper as “a go to officer who is always on the lookout for criminal activity inside the jail.”

“We are blessed to have Sgt. Barry Cooper as a member of our staff,” said Sheriff Randy Seal. “He and his fellow jail officers have perhaps the hardest job in the parish and they perform their duties well. It is an honor to serve as their Sheriff.”

WPSO: Kentwood Man Arrested for Kidnapping

On Saturday (June 27, 2020), Washington Parish Patrol Sergeant Jay Dupre responded to a business
on Sunset Drive in Bogalusa. A clerk at the business had called 911 and reported a female had come into the business begging the clerk to call 911, stating that she was in danger from a male in the parking lot.

The woman and man left before Sgt. Dupre arrived; however, the clerk was able to give a good description of the vehicle as well as the license plate number. Sgt. Dupre and Patrol Deputy Norman Taylor traveled west on Highway 10 searching for the vehicle and were able to stop it near Choctaw Road.

The driver, Clinton Kent Prescott (age 50 and a resident of North 11th Street in Kentwood), was arrested, but not before resisting the officers. The officers subdued him, Sgt. Dupre placed him in handcuffs, and he was transported to the Washington Parish Jail charged with aggravated kidnapping, resisting a police officer with force or violence and being a fugitive from Tangipahoa Parish where he is wanted for cruelty to the infirm. Prescott will remain in the Washington Parish Jail until he makes bond. At that time, he will be transferred to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail to face charges there.

According the female kidnap victim, she was held against her will for several days by Prescott who physically abused her and threatened to kill her. On June 27, 2020 he drove with the victim to Bogalusa and stopped at the business for her to use the restroom. That is when she ran inside and frantically asked the clerk to call 911 before Prescott could enter the building. When she exited the restroom, he was inside the business and forced her to get back into his vehicle.

After Prescott was apprehended and placed in the rear of a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office vehicle, he cursed and yelled at his victim, threatening to get her when he was released from jail. After ascertaining the victim was not injured, officers allowed her to leave the scene with friends.

Sheriff Randy Seal commented when he learned of the arrest. “Welcome to the Washington Parish Jail, Mr. Prescott. This is exactly where you belong and we are pleased to be able to house you. I am so grateful Sgt. Dupre and Deputy Taylor were able to rescue your victim and I thank the business clerk who recognized the dangerous situation you created and promptly called 911.”

Washington Parish School System: Enroll in Pre-K Now


Bogalusa American Independence & Freedom March

Let's Celebrate America! On Wednesday,July 1,2020 at 9:00 a.m., Mr.Donald Kuhn, Sr. will be
marching from American Legion at Pearl River Bridge to Bogalusa City Hall with some other veterans and civilians in a peaceful march with the American Flag. If you would like to walk/march please do so. This march will be supporting Americanism. If you can not walk that far, please ride by with your American flags waving high, just blow your horn & wave. When American Legion gets to Bogalusa City Hall they will open with prayer, sing our National Anthem, and have a speech from the Chaplin of the American Legion, Mr. Paul Corse.

Mr. Donald Kuhn of the American Legion invites all Americans to come and support this event. Remember," FREEDOM IS NOT FREE" GOD BLESS YOU AND GOD BLESS AMERICA! Please have a safe and happy 4th of July!

Source: Washington Parish Tourism

Obituary

Scott Anthony Lee
April 08, 1972 - June 28, 2020

Obituary

Barbara Lynn Wascom
January 25, 1959 - June 28, 2020

Obituary

Edna Faye Ray Varnado
May 11, 1942 - June 28, 2020

Obituary

Leonard Beaushaw
December 2, 1933 - June 27, 2020

Obituary

Deacon Normel Keller, Sr.
July 05, 1929 - June 27, 2020

Obituary

Garvie L. Hill
April 06, 1948 - June 13, 2020

Washington Parish Jail Bookings June 27-28, 2020

Clinton Prescott was booked on the charges of Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Aggravated Kidnapping, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Montreal Jefferson was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm
Isiah Wasp was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, and Failure to Appear

Giant Pumpkin Seed Available at LSU Ag Center

Do you want to try to grow a giant pumpkin? While the status of the 2020 Washington Parish Fair
and the giant pumpkin contest are uncertain at this time, a limited number of pumpkin seeds are available at the LSU AgCenter’s Washington Parish office for those who would like to try their hands at growing a giant pumpkin. Seed packets will be available on a first come, first served basis.

The office (1104-B Bene St., Franklinton) is closed to visitors at this time, so please call (985-839-7855) to make sure that a staff member will be there when you come to hand a seed packet through the door.

Click here to learn more about growing pumpkins

Today's Message from Judge Beth Wolfe

For 15 years, Judge Beth Wolfe has served in State Court, presiding over hundreds of criminal and civil matters. She has earned her reputation for fairness and integrity, and for treating everyone in her court with respect. She is known for being decisive, weighing her rulings carefully and rendering decisions lawfully and with finality. A conservative Republican, Beth knows her job is to uphold the law, not legislate from the bench.

Follow her on Facebook and visit her website.

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today in History for June 29th

AP Top Stories June 29, 2020 AM

June 27, 2020

Inaugural episode of "Our Lady of the Angels Talk With a Doc"

Our Lady of the Angels Talk With a Doc series is a new health education feature to keep us informed on health-related concerns and needs from subject matter experts as well as the services available in Washington Parish. The inaugural episode features moderator Angela Lambert and Our Lady of the Angels Physician Group Chief of Staff, Dr. G. Daud Noaz.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings June 26, 2020

Jessica Bryan was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts)
William Ashwell was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Abram Major was booked on the charges of No License Plate, Driving Under Suspension, No Taillight, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Tara Bates was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.

Today in History for June 27th

June 26, 2020

Suspect Sought in Murder of 19-Year-Old Near Amite

St. Helena Sheriff’s Department is asking the public to help find Jaylohn T. Mitchell, a man who is wanted for Second Degree murder on Sunday evening, June 21, 2020 of a 19 year old man on McDaniel Road, Amite, Louisiana.

If you have any information regarding Jaylohn T. Mitchell’s whereabouts please send information on this case to Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1.800.554.5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! Be a part of the solution and you may be eligible for a cash reward of up to $1,000!

Stolen Tractors Recovered Near Osyka - TX Man Arrested

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reported today (June 26, 2020) that the results from a
multi-jurisdictional joint investigation has resulted in the recovery of two stolen tractors and the arrest of a Texas man.

On June 22,2020, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office was contacted by the St. Helena Parish Sheriff’s Office to begin a joint investigation into the theft of two Kubota tractors that were taken from a job-site on Hwy 16, just outside of Amite and near the Tangipahoa Parish and St. Helena Parish line in the late evening hours of June 21, 2020.

Over the course of the investigation, detectives learned that the tractors were originally stolen from a location in St. Helena Parish, driven through Tangipahoa Parish, and were possibly located in a wooded area near a residence in Gillsburg, Mississippi. With coordinated efforts and assistance of Mississippi authorities, the Amite County Sheriff's Office, and the United States Customs and Border Patrol, detectives were able to identify a target search area and utilize air support from the United States Customs and Border Patrol to narrow down their search area. As a result of the air search, one of the stolen tractors was spotted and identified at a residence on Jimmy Wall Lane in Osyka, Mississippi. While the air search was being conducted, detectives observed a male subject get on the tractor and proceed to drive it deeper and deeper into the heavily wooded area.

On June 25, 2020, the Amite County Sheriff's Office obtained and executed a search warrant for the property. Authorities from all agencies were present and participated in the execution of said warrant. The tractor identified by air support was located and recovered. Shortly thereafter, the second tractor was located/recovered hidden inside of a metal barn on the property. Detectives also recovered several other items that were reported stolen as a result of the search.

The Amite County Sheriff's Office arrested Melanie Gene Southard, age 43  and from Buckholts, Texas, for Possession of Stolen Property.

The investigation remains on-going. Additional charges and/or arrests are expected.

Source: Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa, Inc.

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Seizes Drugs and Money

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Highway Enforcement Unit located a large amount of drugs
and cash during a traffic stop on Interstate 12 near Slidell on Wednesday (June 24, 2020).

Shortly before 3 a.m. on Wednesday, STPSO Highway Enforcement Unit deputies stopped a vehicle traveling eastbound on I-12 in Slidell. The driver of the vehicle was identified as Calvin D. Vaughn (44) and the front seat passenger was identified as Anthony J. Perkins (53).

During the course of the traffic stop, Highway Enforcement Unit K-9 Echo conducted a free-air narcotics odor sniff of the vehicle and provided a positive narcotics alert.  Both Vaughn and Perkins attempted to flee the scene and became physically combative with deputies before ultimately being detained.

A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 3,000 MDMA pills, 50 bottles of promethazine HCL and codeine phosphate syrup and approximately 58 grams of powder cocaine.  In addition, both Vaughn and Perkins were in possession of a total of $16,253 in U.S. Currency, which is believed to be the proceeds of narcotics transactions. The Highway Enforcement Unit deputies seized the narcotics and currency, and arrested both Vaughn and Perkins.

Calvin D. Vaughn was booked into the St Tammany Parish Jail on the following charges: Driving on Roadway Laned for Traffic, Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence (felony), Battery of a Police Officer (misdemeanor), Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance (felony), Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance (felony), Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule V Controlled Dangerous Substance (felony), and Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses (felony).

Anthony J. Perkins was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on the following charges: Resisting an Officer (misdemeanor), Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule V Controlled Dangerous   Substance (felony), Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance (felony), and Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses (felony).

Slidell-area Apartment Manager Arrested On Theft Charge

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested Terri Smith (49), the acting office manager of a
Slidell-area apartment complex, for theft. She is accused of embezzling $86,968.50.

In January 2020, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was made aware of a large embezzlement from a Slidell-area apartment complex. Between January and September of 2019, Terri Smith of Pearl River was the acting office manager in charge of overseeing and depositing rent payments made by tenants. A forensic audit of the of the company’s finances showed $86,968.50 in missing cash, which was intended as rent payments made by tenants.

Through several months of investigation, detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Financial Crimes Division were able to develop probable cause to believe Smith stole the cash, and on Tuesday (June 23, 2020), detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Smith.

On Thursday (June 25, 2020), Smith turned herself into authorities and was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on one count of Theft Over $25,000.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings June 24-25, 2020

Stormi Bryant was booked on the charges of Identity Theft (5 counts)
Dustin Bryant was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Holds
Markus Mark was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Resisting an Officer
Courtney Holmes was booked on the charges of Obstruction of Justice, Intentional Littering, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Appear

Today's Message from Judge Beth Wolfe

A Judge should not make the law, but uphold it equally and fairly for everyone. Vote Judge Beth Wolfe for 1st Circuit Court of Appeal.

Follow her on Facebook and visit her website.

Obituary

Adele Hawthorne Valliant
November 24, 1926 - June 19, 2020

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today in History for June 26th

AP Top Stories June 26, 2020 AM

June 25, 2020

Gov. Edwards Encourages Louisianans to Mask Up

Today (June 25, 2020), Gov. John Bel Edwards formally extended Phase Two of reopening in
Louisiana for another 28 days, as new COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations increase across the state. The new order leaves in place occupancy and other restrictions of the previous Phase Two order and adds a crowd size limit of 250 to indoor gatherings.

Since Monday, Louisiana has added 3,637 new COVID-19 cases, a steady uptick in new positives. More than 3,000 Louisianans have died from complications of COVID-19. Louisiana has also pushed to increase testing, exceeding its goal of 200,000 tests for the month of June already. Louisiana has completed 257,535 tests in the month of June.

“We have watched with concern as cases continue to rise in Louisiana, which is why we are pausing the state in Phase Two for now. Data from the last three days makes it crystal clear that Louisiana is not ready to move to Phase Three just yet,” Gov. Edwards said. “Our plan is to watch the daily trends and then to do another deep dive into the data in 14 days to determine if things are improving or getting worse, so we can make a plan for our future. None of us wants to go back to a time of greater restrictions, which is why it is incredibly important that all Louisianans take the necessary mitigation measures to slow the spread of COVID-19 in the state, including wearing cloth masks or face coverings when they are in public, staying home if you are sick or experiencing symptoms, keeping six feet of social distance and washing their hands frequently.”

“Some in Louisiana may be done with COVID, but I promise you that COVID is not yet done with Louisiana,” Gov. Edwards said. “I especially want to call on the young people of our state, those ages 18 to 29, to take this illness seriously. This is the age group with the largest numbers of new cases and while you may think you are invincible; you are not. Moreover, you should make sure you don’t spread the illness to others, especially those most vulnerable to it.”

Three Arrested in MS. For Ponchatoula Man's Murder

Source: Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa, Inc.

Dedrick Grant, Jr., age 27, was last seen on Thursday when he left with two individuals heading to Mississippi. The individuals were identified as Michael Benge (38) and Rachel Dean (35), both from Hattiesburg, MS. A missing persons report was filed after Grant did not return home and would not answer his phone.

Dedrick Grant was located around 2:30 am Wednesday (June 24, 2020) in an area near Lumberton, MS. He appeared to have been shot at least one time.

Benge and Dean will both be charged with Grant’s murder. Benge was arrested Tuesday (June 23, 2020)  night by Jones County Mississippi deputies after they found him in possession of a stolen handgun resulting from a traffic stop. Rachel Dean is also in custody. A third person has been arrested in connection with the murder. Larry McCarty is being charged with Accessory After the Fact of a Capital Murder.

Ponchatoula PD would like to thank the following agencies for their immediate assistance in locating Grant: Lamar County Sheriff’s Office, Hattiesburg Police Department, Laurel Police Department, Jones County District Attorney’s Office, US Marshal’s Office, MS Highway Patrol, MS Bureau of Investigations, and the FBI offices in New Orleans, Jackson, and Hattiesburg.

Elderly Mandeville-area Woman Attacked by Pit Bulls

An elderly woman is in critical condition after she was attacked by her two pit bulls Thursday (June
25) afternoon at her Mandeville-area residence.

Shortly before 2:15 p.m. Thursday, deputies with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office were called to a home in the 600 block of Chevreuil Street near Mandeville after a resident called to report his 72-year-old neighbor was being attacked by her own two dogs.

When deputies arrived at the home, the attack was still going on. As they made entry into the residence, the dogs turned their attention from the woman and began attacking the deputies, who were forced to use lethal force, killing one of the animals.  The second dog fled the residence. 

After rendering medical care to the woman, which included applying a tourniquet to stop the bleeding, the deputies went out to locate the second dog.  It was found outside a nearby residence and the dog attacked the deputies. Deputies were once again forced to use lethal force, killing the second dog.

The woman was transported to a local area hospital, where she is reported to be in critical but stable condition. The neighbor sustained bite wounds to his arm and was treated by emergency medical personnel at the scene, and a child at the residence received superficial wounds trying to stop the attack, but was not bit.

Wanted by the Bogalusa Police Department

Everett Joseph Rhea, III is wanted by the Bogalusa Police Department for Extortion. His date of birth is March 2, 1982.

If anyone knows the whereabouts of this individual, please contact the detectives at 985-732-6238 or if after hours, call 985-732-3611.

Housing Resource Fair is Saturday in Bogalusa

A Housing Resource Fair, hosted by Bogalusa Rebirth, will be held on Saturday, June 27, 2020 from 1 PM to 3 PM at the Superior Avenue Baptist Church parking lot.

Learn how to obtain a clear title on heir property, programs for first-time home-buyers, meet a lender, or learn about funding for home repairs if you already own your home. 

Bring a friend. Wear a mask.

Obituary

Paulette Mingo
February 23, 1958 - June 21, 2020

Obituary

Susan Dykes Smith
March 10, 1949 - June 25, 2020

Obituary

Fred Earl Mizell
November 03, 1943 - June 24, 2020

Obituary

Harry Lloyd Hayden
February 08, 1942 - June 23, 2020

Obituary

Thomas Gerald Welch
April 16, 1932 - June 24, 2020

Today's Message from Judge Beth Wolfe

Elect Judge Beth Wolfe, the most experienced candidate for 1st Circuit Court of Appeal.

Follow her on Facebook and visit her website.

Washington Parish Council Holds "In-Person" Meeting

While observing social distancing and other precautions, the Washington Parish Council held their first "in-person" meeting since the COVID-19 outbreak that caused over 3,000 deaths in Louisiana (44 in Washington Parish) and resulted in over 50,000 positive cases. Since the outbreak, the Washington Parish Council utilized Zoom to conduct their meetings online and to conduct the business of the parish in a transparent manner. The City of Bogalusa and the Town of Franklinton made other choices to effectively fulfill their responsibilities.

The Washington Parish Council meeting on Monday evening (June 22, 2020) was held in the upstairs courtroom in the courthouse in Franklinton and also used the Zoom alternative simultaneously for those who were unable or reluctant to join the in-person meeting.

The Council
  • heard a report from Washington Parish School System Superintendent Frances Varnado (beginning at 4:20 into video of the meeting), 
  • introduced three ordinances regarding millage rates (beginning at 17:05 into video of the meeting). A Public Hearing and vote will be held on each at the next meeting,
  • approved a resolution removing Williams Lane from the Washington Parish Road System Maintenance List,
  • heard from Frankie Crosby and others regarding an issue with road access in the Green Valley Subdivision (beginning at 22:55 into video of the meeting),
  • heard from Patti Oppenheim, candidate for Family Court Judge, Division K (beginning at 32:10 into video of the meeting),
  • heard from Ellen M. Creel, candidate for District Court Judge, Division J (beginning at 34:25 into video of the meeting),
Following the President's Report (beginning at 36:45 into video of the meeting) and Council Discussions, the meeting adjourned.

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today in History for June 25th

AP Top Stories June 25, 2020

June 24, 2020

Obituary

Claudette Morris Johnson
January 27, 1956 - June 07, 2020

Obituary

James Earl Rollins, Sr.
November 25, 1953 - June 11, 2020

Obituary

Hattie Mae Dillon
November 12, 1947 - June 11, 2020

Today's Message from Judge Beth Wolfe

Early voting is OPEN! Whether you vote today, or on Election Day (July 11th), vote for the experienced candidate. Vote for Judge Beth Wolfe for 1st Circuit Court of Appeal.

Follow her on Facebook and visit her website.

This Week on "Washington Parish Community Connect"

Each week WP Community Connect Video Series features different local community organizations and the resources they provide for Washington Parish. This week features Brilliant Mindz Community Center-Dana Walker and Northshore Community Foundation, Jeanne Martin. Take a listen to learn about their amazing services and how they are touching lives in Washington Parish.

Obituary

George Dewey Williams, Jr.
June 28, 1930 - June 23, 2020

Obituary

Virgil J. Jackson
February 05, 1931 - June 17, 2020

Washington Parish Jail Bookings June 22-23, 2020

Dealzon Lee was booked on the charges of Careless Operation, Driving Under Suspension, and Open Container in Vehicle
Zachary Hardin was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Domestic Violence, Battery of a Dating Partner, Criminal Damage, Criminal Damage to Property Under 500, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Jonathan Corkern was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Careless Operation, No Ignition Interlock Device (2 counts), Illegal Discharge/Use of Weapon, and Criminal Damage to Property (6 counts)
Mark Hobgood was booked on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.


Today in History for June 24th

AP Top Stories June 24, 2020 AM

Registration is Always Open at the Franklinton Soccer Club!

Source: Message from the Frankinton Soccer Club


Your child can play during the Fall 2020 Season (August 24- October 10) with the membership fee of $60. The Uniform fee is $70. The uniforms will be worn every year, so you won’t need to purchase another unless your child outgrows it. To register, go to www.franklintonsoccerclub.com. You can pay the registration fee and uniform fee separately there. Please have uniform fees paid by Monday, July 27 so they will arrive on time. Also, if your child will NOT be playing Fall Soccer, please let us know.

We will play at the Atoka Recreation Complex this Fall on Hwy. 25. It’s only 2 miles from the entrance to the Fairgrounds!

Franklinton Soccer Club (FSC) is focused on giving young players the opportunity to develop their skills and perform at a higher level. To see scheduled game days, check the FSC calendar.

Franklinton Soccer Club – Dream Big, Play Hard, Make It Happen

June 23, 2020

Bogalusa Voters to Consider Tax Re-Dedication

Voters within the city limits of Bogalusa will decide on July 11th whether or not to rededicate a 1/4%
sales and use tax. This is not a new tax but a re-dedication of a tax originally approved in 2007 to provide support for the industrial park. Approval of the re-dedication will help fix the COBERS pension program, which is approximately $26 Million in debt.

According to Bogalusa Council President Mark Irvin,
  • a YES vote means any money in reserves at the Industrial Park Complex and future funds from the Industrial Complex Fund in the Industrial Park would be transferred to the COBERS pension program which the fiscal administrator has told the Bogalusa City Council would raise about $16 million for the pension fund and would begin to stabilize the COBERS pension fund. However, the City of Bogalusa would only have the rental income to pay for repairs to existing buildings and insurance for buildings in the Industrial Park Complex .If new buildings was built in the Industrial Park Complex, then the City of Bogalusa would have to borrow that money from the bank with interest. This would put the City further in debt if buildings was built or needed major repairs that are not covered by insurance
  • a NO vote could result in reduction of city services. It would keep the funds at the Industrial Park for possible future buildings if needed or to add onto existing buildings without borrowing money if needed.
Early Voting is taking place now through Saturday, July 4th from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. (Closed Sun.June 28th) at Northshore Technical College (Sullivan VoTech).

To see your Sample Ballot, go to https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/sampleballot and select your Parish, Ward, and Precinct.

Washington Parish School System Pre-K Registration Info


Attorney and City Prosecutor Ellen Creel to Run for Judge

Source: Press Release dated June 10, 2020


Former Bar Association President Offers 25-Year Legal History Managing Hundreds of Cases

FRANKLINTON, LA. – Ellen M. Creel, a city prosecutor and 25-year veteran of law, today announced her decision to run for Division J Judge of the 22nd Judicial District Court, a seat being vacated by retiring Judge William “Rusty” Knight.

Creel has led a successful private practice specializing in all aspects of civil law. She also currently serves as a prosecutor for the Town of Franklinton, and as the town’s legal counsel. Representing individuals, businesses, and public government bodies in Washington and St. Tammany Parishes, Creel has managed hundreds of cases in both district and/or appellate courts. Ellen Creel led the Washington Parish Bar Association as President and represented the judicial district as a member of the Louisiana State Bar Association House of Delegates. She is a member of the 22nd Judicial District Court Bar Association, a former member of the Board of Directors of Bowling Green School, and currently serves as President of the Board for the Franklinton Association for Challenged Citizens/Washington Parish Activity Center, a non-profit that serves adults with special needs.

Obituary

Jana Elise Kennedy Denning
May 21, 1987 - June 19, 2020

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Today in History for June 23rd

AP Top Stories June 23, 2020 AM

June 22, 2020

As COVID-19 Cases Increase, Louisiana Will Stay in Phase Two

Today (June 22, 2020), Gov. John Bel Edwards announced that Louisiana will stay in Phase Two of
reopening, as the number of COVID-19 cases and related hospitalizations have started to rise in several regions across the state. The Governor will extend his Phase Two order for another 28 days, keeping in place occupancy limits and other restrictions.

As of today, Louisiana ranks seventh out of 23 states across the country experiencing an increase in COVID-19 positive cases. Those include the neighboring states of Texas, Arkansas, Alabama, Florida and Georgia.

Click here to complete a self-assessment from the Louisiana Department of Health to determine your level of risk for becoming very ill from COVID-19.

Troopers Request Information in Severe Injury Incident

On Sunday, June 21, 2020 shortly after 11:30 pm, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L
responded to a reported vehicle crash on US 190 just east of LA 434 in St. Tammany Parish. Upon arrival, first responders located 44-year-old Darnell F. Ordone of Lacombe lying in the roadway. He was transported to Lakeview Medical Center in Mandeville, where he remains in critical condition.

The initial investigation showed Ordone was lying in the roadway with severe injuries and a large amount of mud on him. There were reports of all-terrain vehicles in the area driving on and off of the roadway prior to the reported crash. No all-terrain vehicles were located in the area after the crash was reported. Furthermore, a man known only by the first name of Greg contacted Ordone’s mother about the incident.

If anyone has information relevant to the incident, please contact Louisiana State Police Troop L at (985) 893-6250.

Fairgrounds Summer Food Distribution Date Changed

The Washington Parish Government and Second Harvest food distribution planned for Wednesday June 24, 2020 has been postponed until Monday, June 29, 2020 due to inclement weather. 

Obituary

Ernest Everett Pope
December 28, 1948 - June 20, 2020

Obituary

Jesse E. Didone, III
March 15, 1983 - June 19, 2020

Obituary

Don Paul Miller
August 31, 1949 - June 20, 2020

Obituary

Mary Margaret Watts Burris
October 6, 1920 - June 21, 2020

WPSO: Criminal Patrol Results in Arrest of Metairie Resident

Last Friday (June 19, 2020), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Detective Raymond Myers was
traveling on Highway 439 near Ben’s Ford Road when he observed a vehicle being driven in a careless manner. The vehicle crossed over the center line in front of an approaching vehicle, then swerved back into its own lane and onto the shoulder of the highway, then once again crossed the center line, coming close to a resident who was standing near the roadway checking his mailbox.

Detective Myers stopped the vehicle and encountered the driver, identified as Chase Michael Marrero, age 28 and a resident of Henry Landry Lane in Metairie. Detective Myers observed a knife protruding from Marrero’s pocket and patted him down for officer safety. As the knife was removed from his pocket, Marrero advised that he had a pistol in the vehicle. Detective Myers received verbal consent to search the vehicle and discovered a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol, two extra magazines and a quantity of narcotic pills.

Marrero was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail where he was booked on two counts of possession of illegal drugs, one count of possession of a controlled dangerous substance with a weapon present and one count of careless operation of a vehicle. Marrero was released from jail later the same day after posting a $5,000 bond.

“This is another great example of the importance of criminal patrol throughout our parish,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Good job, Detective Myers. Not only did you remove a careless driver from our community, but also you removed a weapon, ammunition and illegal drugs. I appreciate all you do for the citizens of Washington Parish.”

Washington Parish Jail Bookings June 19-21, 2020

Chase Marrero was booked on the charges of Careless Operation, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present
Jonathan Spencer was booked on the charge of Protective Order Violation
Tammi Trahan was booked on the charges of Open Container in Vehicle, Resisting Arrest, and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle
Autumn Bonnet was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Byron Johnson was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession of Heroin, and Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs

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Today in History for June 22nd

AP Top Stories June 22, 2020 AM

June 19, 2020

Obituary

Vera "Nanny" Polk Hughes
July 13, 1933 - June 18, 2020

Bogalusa Police Make Arrest in Murder of Dominique James

Today (June 19, 2020), after an extensive investigation into the disappearance and murder of
Dominique James, that took place on May 2, 2020, detectives with the Bogalusa Police Department arrested and charged Derek Moss, Jr. (age 29). Moss was charged with Felony Obstruction of Justice and being in Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.

It was determined through GPS location data, cell phone text messaging, and multiple interviews, that Moss was in the area where the body of Dominique James was found, on the day James was murdered. The forensic analysis of Cell Tower information confirmed that Moss traveled from Bogalusa to the area west of Bogalusa, where James’ body was disposed of, remained there for approximately 17 minutes, then immediately returned to Bogalusa. It is believed that Moss took an active roll in the disposal of James’ body. Moss, being a prior convicted felon, was also found to have been in possession of a firearm, while detectives investigated the matter. It is not believed that the firearm was used in the murder of James.

Detectives are continuing the investigation, and further forensic evidence analysis remains pending at the crime lab. Detectives believe that Moss did not act alone, and are continuing to pursue leads in the case, to identify and charge all parties involved in the murder of James. It is believed that James was murdered at a location, other than the location where his vehicle and body were found, indicating that one perpetrator had to have driven the victim’s vehicle to the body dump site, while another perpetrator had to have picked up the driver of the victim’s vehicle, once it was hidden in the wooded area.

Derek Moss, Jr., who was already incarcerated in the Parish Jail in Franklinton, on a Probation and Parole violation, was served with the active warrants for his arrest, and booked into the Parish Jail on the charges of Obstruction of Justice and Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

Click here for previous related stories

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