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January 31, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 29-30, 2021

Christopher Kimball was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $500,000.00.

Willis Hartzog was booked In From Court

Kelly Stokes was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tyranza Owens was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Whitney Ard was booked on the charges of Expired MVI, No License Plate, No Insurance, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.



January 29, 2021

Two Men (One From Ponchatoula) Arrested on Charges of Child Exploitation

Source: Louisiana State Police Post

On January 27, 2021, Investigators from the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit – Baton Rouge Field Office in conjunction with the FBI, Homeland Security, Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, and the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested two men after they learned of their participation in child exploitation on a social media app. 26-year-old Jaime Sousa of Ponchatoula and 47-year-old Dexter Schexnayder of Deridder were arrested for charges related to indecent behavior with a juvenile, computer aided solicitation of a minor, and attempted felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile.

During the course of the investigation, Sousa and Schexnayder were identified as having separate online conversations with an undercover FBI Agent posing as a juvenile. Sousa and Schexnayder further solicited and agreed to meet the juvenile for sex. Troopers along with the aforementioned assisting agencies took Sousa and Schexnayder into custody after they arrived at a meeting location where they agreed to meet the juvenile for the purpose of having sex.

Sousa and Schexnayder were arrested and booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Jail on the charges of Indecent Behavior with a Juvenile, Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, and Attempted Felony Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile.

It was also learned during the course of the investigation that Sousa was arrested on January 24, 2020, by the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office on 30 counts of Pornography Involving Juveniles and, at the time of his most recent arrest, Sousa was wearing an ankle monitoring bracelet and awaiting trial for his previous arrest.  This remains an active investigation, and there is no further information available at this time.

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/ and clicking on the “Suspicious Activity” link.  Troopers also encourage parents to monitor their children’s social media activity.  Further guidance can be found by visiting the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at www.missingkids.org.

Tangipahoa Man Arrested For Cyber Crimes Against Children

Attorney General Jeff Landry’s Cyber Crime Unit has arrested a Tangipahoa Parish man on child exploitation charges. Andrew Brady, 31 of Ponchatoula, was arrested and charged with 29 counts of Pornography Involving Juveniles Under the Age of Thirteen (possession). 

The arrest was a result of a joint investigation with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, Louisiana State Police, and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office.

“Child pornography is a heinous crime that inflicts lifelong damage to the victims,” said Attorney General Landry. “I applaud my Cyber Crime Unit and our law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to find and arrest the criminals who produce, distribute, and possess sexual abuse images and videos of children.”

Brady was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail.

Fontainebleau High Student Arrested For Terrorizing

A 15-year-old student from Fontainebleau High School was arrested Thursday evening (January 28, 2021) after bringing a weapon to the school campus. 

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies were alerted after school administrators were notified, after school hours, that a student was seen earlier in the day with a weapon on the school campus.

The 15 year-old student was subsequently arrested for L.R.S.  14:40.1 relative to Terrorizing and transported to Florida Parishes Juvenile Detention Center. 

The investigation remains ongoing and no additional information is available at this time.

“We have made it very clear that threats like this will be taken seriously,” Sheriff Randy Smith said.  “We will continue to work with our schools and investigate any and all threats at our schools or to the students and faculty who attend them.”

Washington Parish 4-H: 1st Annual Watermelon Growing Contest

Washington Parish 4-H has announced the 1st Annual Washington Parish Watermelon Growing Contest.
Washington Parish is known for our watermelons and this contest is an opportunity for 4-H members to learn how to grow them, keep records, and have a little fun competition with each other. 

Participants will be provided seeds, growing guides, and support along the way. 

From planting seed until harvest and weigh-in will be 100 days: April 1 - July 10

Registration is now open and will close Friday, February 19, 2021

Seeds will be sent out to everyone after registration is closed.

Washington Parish 4-H LBIC Beef Poster Contest

Washington Parish 4-H advises that it is Poster Time! All 4-H members in the 4th-12th grade are highly
encouraged to take part in this poster contest. Not only do you have a chance to win $$ but you will learn valuable information regarding the beef industry as a whole. 

Posters are due in February on the date set by school 4-H clubs. Go to https://bit.ly/2KP3W8e for the complete list of rules. 

Keep this in mind

  • The 2021 LBIC Beef Poster Contest Theme is GREEN BEEF. Participants will design a poster or digital design promoting the theme GREEN BEEF. The green beef theme surrounds the concept that beef is healthy, nutritious and environmentally friendly. 
  • Posters must be on “22 x 28” poster board.
  • Posters and digital designs should generate positive images and promotion of beef (not live cattle production) using the indicated theme. Posters should promote beef without projecting any negative messages towards other agricultural commodities (chicken, pork, etc.).
  • DO NOT use copyrighted materials

Awards for qualifying state entries:

First Place – State winning posters in each division will receive $200 sponsored by the Louisiana Beef Industry Council

Second Place – State winning posters in each division will receive $100 sponsored by the Louisiana Beef Industry Council

Third Place – State winning posters in each division will receive a $50 check sponsored by the Louisiana Beef Industry Council

Obituary

Darlene "Doll" Warren

July 30, 1964 - January 25, 2021

Obituary

Ronald White

January 23, 1951 - January 17, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 28, 2021

Duane Greely was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

John Gros was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Aggravated Assault, Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, and Simple Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Russell Williams was booked on the charges of Proper Equipment Required, Driving Under Suspension, No MVI, No Proof of Insurance, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Bryce Landry was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Linda Sickles was booked on the charges of Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

James Obrien was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s), Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, and Sexual Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $125,000.00.

Charles Blackwell was booked on the charge of Theft 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.                                                                                                                       



Obituary

Roy Edmon Keating

February 24, 1944 - January 27, 2021

Obituary

Darryl Duane Peterson

October 14, 1957 - January 28, 2021

Obituary

Basil Huey Ball

May 4, 1933 - January 27, 2021

Obituary

Shane Daniel Hunt

April 27, 1966 - January 27, 2021

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today in History for January 29th

AP Top Stories January 29, 2021 AM

January 28, 2021

Franklinton Woman's Charges Include Theft of $711,365.87

Yesterday (January 28, 2021), Louisiana State Police Detectives concluded a nearly one-year investigation into fraudulent insurance applications with forged signatures in the Washington Parish area. According to the Louisiana State Police, the investigation showed that 46-year-old Joanna L. Jenkins of Franklinton had completed fraudulent insurance applications and financial agreements. 

Jenkins was booked into the Washington Parish Jail with the charges of Insurance Fraud, Forgery, and Theft $25,000.00 or More. The LSP press release states the amount of the theft to be in the amount of $711,365.87.

Washington Parish Jail records indicate Jenkins, a resident of Clairain Drive in Franklinton, was released January 28, 2021 on a $50,000.00 bond. 

Franklinton Man Dies in Three-Vehicle Crash

On Wednesday, January 27, 2021, shortly before 6:00 pm, Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash on LA 10 just west of the Franklinton city limits in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 54-year-old Shane D. Hunt of Franklinton. 

The initial investigation revealed that Hunt was driving eastbound on LA 10 in a 2007 Ford Focus. At the same time, 38-year-old Christina L. Goings of Franklinton was traveling westbound in a 2007 Chevrolet Tahoe. For reasons still under investigation, Goings’ vehicle crossed into the westbound lane and crashed into Hunt’s Focus. After the crash, both vehicles exited the roadway. A 2019 Lexus 350, which was traveling eastbound on LA 10, was struck by debris from the initial collision.

Hunt was restrained during the crash and transported to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. Goings was unrestrained during the crash. She was also transported to a local hospital for injuries sustained during the crash. Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in the crash. As part of the ongoing investigation, blood samples were taken from both drivers for scientific analysis. Goings will be booked into the Washington Parish Jail after she is released from the hospital. She will be charged with No Seatbelt, Driving Left of Center, and Negligent Homicide. 

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted, always ensure every occupant is properly restrained, and follow all traffic laws. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Obituary

Randy Aaron Morris

May 6, 1957 - January 28, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 27, 2021

Joanna Jenkins was booked on the charges of Insurance Fraud, Forgery, and Theft 25000 or More by the Louisiana State Police. Bond set at $50,000.00.

Daisy McCarty was booked on the charge of Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Amanda Carnegie was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Driving Without Headlights, and Attachment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Casey Dedon was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today in History for January 28th

AP Top Stories January 28, 2021 AM

January 27, 2021

Obituary

Jimmy R. Williams, Sr.

November 13, 1948 - January 25, 2021

Entergy Updates Council on Bogalusa Plant Noise Abatement

Entergy representative Patrick Hamby reported to the Washington Parish Council Monday (January 25, 2021) that plans to address their Bogalusa plant noise concerns are on track and promised significant noise reduction, with more specifics about decibel levels to be given in their next report in a month. The plan previous reported is to replace horizontal duct work with wider duct, add acoustical barrier roof between the duct work and close to the actual turbines, and insulate the expansion joints. Hamby reported that Entergy has conducted more noise testing, engaged engineers and noise specialists and determined the scope of work. Start of work will should begin in June, 2021 to be completed by the end of the third quarter or the beginning of the fourth quarter of 2021. (See his comments beginning at 8:55 into video of the meeting.) 

Click here for previous related stories and video.

In addition to other routine matters, the Council heard a report from Beth Putnam with the LSU Ag Center and heard from Colonel Chad Conerly, a candidate for Louisiana 5th Congressional District.

In his report to the Council (beginning at 25:30 into video of the meeting), Parish President Richard N. Thomas, Jr. 

  • complimented Public Works Director Wheat, Finance Director Graham, and Director of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Breland on the work they do
  • reported on the International Paper's recent announcement of a $52 million investment in their facility, great news for Washington Parish and the City of Bogalusa
  • reported on current COVID-19 testing being done at Cassidy Park in Bogalusa
  • reported on current COVID-19 vaccinations available  in the Parish: Creel Pharmacy in Pine, Sumrall Pharmacy in Angie, and Nielson's Pharmacy in Bogalusa
  • reported the statistics on COVID-19 (an increase of cases and deaths) in Washington Parish and
  • answered a question from Councilman Fornea regarding enforcement of the “thru-roads” ordinance. The ordinances on the books regulate big trucks on parish roads.  The discussion also included the ongoing issue of litter and litter enforcement in the parish

Following remarks by members of the Council, the meeting adjourned.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 26, 2021

Carnell Smoot was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Bond Surrender. Bond set at $7500.00.

Mark Stevens was booked on the charges of Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000, Criminal Trespass, and Protective Order Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kekouya Jackson was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Bradford Lott was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Introduction of Contraband into a Penal Institute, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Keith Ybarzabel was booked on the charges of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 1000-5000 (2 counts) and Theft Less Than 1000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kenneth Lang was booked on the charges of Entry/Remain on Premises After Being Forbidden, Possession of Marijuana (3rd Offense), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Switched License Plates, and No Insurance by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Matthew Adams was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts), Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana (3rd Offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Scott Jenkins was booked on the charges of Probation and Parole Hold, Driving Left of Center/Crossing Center Line, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Littering, Aggravated Assault Upon a Police Officer, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $75,000.00.

Isaac Bonner was booked on the charge of Failure to Comply with Sex Offender Requirements by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Donna Sloan was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No Bond set at this time.

Leonard Blackburn was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Second Degree Battery, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence (3 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today in History for January 27th

AP Top Stories January 27, 2021 AM

January 26, 2021

Slidell Police Stand-Off With Rape Suspect Ends Peacefully

A stand-off, with a rape suspect from New Orleans, ended peacefully early this morning (January 26, 2021). Around 8:00 a.m., Slidell Police were contacted by the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force, in reference to a suspect who was wanted by N.O.P.D. for 1st Degree Rape and Home Invasion. The suspect was hiding in an apartment at the Bella Sera apartment complex. 

The suspect, 36-year-old, Anthony Nathaniel Green, age 36 and of New Orleans,  barricaded himself inside of the apartment when officers arrived. The Slidell Police Special Weapons and Tactics Team (SWAT), was deployed to assist with apprehending Green. 

Residents were asked to stay inside as the suspect “may be armed and dangerous”. After a brief stand-off, SWAT Negotiators were able to make contact with Green and convince him to surrender. Green was then taken into custody without incident.

Help Locate This Woman Wanted for Bank Fraud



PopTart Bandit Jailed on Drug Charges

Today (January 26, 2021), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputy Randall Garcia responded to a Franklinton business where Franklinton Police Department Officers Harper and Leche had detained a parish man accused of shoplifting. As the officers ran a background check on the subject, they discovered he had outstanding warrants in Washington Parish.

As officers searched the suspect, identified as Matthew O’Brian Adams, age 31 and  a resident of Woody Road, they discovered a quantity of heroin and marijuana on his person. He was transported to the Washington Parish Jail and booked on the drug charges in addition to possession of drug paraphernalia and the two outstanding warrants for contempt of court.

Adams has five previous arrests in Washington Parish since 2008 on charges that included possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving while intoxicated, failure to appear in court, theft, and cruelty to a juvenile. 

“Believe it or not, this arrest came about because he shoplifted a PopTart,” said Sheriff Randy Seal. “At least he paid for the PopTart before heading off to jail. Thanks, officers Harper and Leche and Deputy Garcia, for making this arrest and getting more drugs out of our community.”

Obituary

Ada Magee

June 16, 1934 - January 24, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 23-25, 2021

Tyler Hart was booked on the charges of Vehicle Burglary and Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Gary Wehmeyer was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs (2 counts) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Darryl Harris was booked on the charge of Distribution of Schedule 1 Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Eric Williams was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Attachment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Michael Morton was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Bond Surrender (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.



Obituary

Lucile Miley Corbello

March 8, 1932 - January 24, 2021

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Today in History for January 26th

AP Top Stories January 26, 2021 AM

Chad Conerly Announces Candidacy for Louisiana's 5th Congressional District

Chad Conerly, a retired Air Force Colonel from Kentwood Louisiana, has qualified to run for Louisiana’s 5th Congressional District in the March 20th special election. “I am running for Congress because our national political environment has become toxic.  I am a political outsider with the leadership credentials and extensive federal budget experience to lead on day one”.    

His platform is both fiscally and socially conservative.  “Job one is to open the economy, safely and immediately.  Soon after, we must rein in big tech’s monopoly on information dissemination. Conservative thought must flow freely in America”.  He is 100% pro-life, pro-second amendment, pro-law enforcement, and keenly focused on jobs, deregulation, rural infrastructure, and economic development.    

Conerly, born in Alexandria and raised in Kentwood, has deep roots in the 5th Congressional District.  The lifelong conservative Republican enlisted in the Louisiana Air National Guard in 1986, and earned his Air Force commission in 1992 through the LSU Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) program.  

Over his extensive 22-year military career, he developed and managed annual operating budgets ranging from $145 million to $7 billion; led complex cost analysis and contracting organizations; managed weapon system acquisition programs; and is well versed in all aspects of the federal budget.  

He is an Iraq war veteran and has commanded two Air Force squadrons.  He served as the Director of Resource Management for the White House Communications Agency in Washington DC from 2009 to 2012.  He retired in 2014 as Chief, Financial Analysis, Air Force Global Strike Command, Barksdale Air Force Base, Bossier City Louisiana.  

Conerly graduated from LSU with a Bachelor's of Science in Agricultural Business; earned an MBA from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University; and earned a Masters in Strategic Leadership from the Air Force Institute of Technology.    

For the last 6 years, he has helped manage his family’s farm in northern Tangipahoa parish.  He’s married to the former Candice King from New Roads Louisiana and they have two sons, Tyler and Brandon.

January 25, 2021

Obituary

Anerlene Alford McDaniel

February 16, 1928 - January 22, 2021

Obituary

Dennis Wayne "Bubba" Gill

March 5, 1965 - January 23, 2021

Obituary

Darlene Theresa Allemore Hartman

November 14, 1947 - January 22, 2021

Obituary

Dorothy Ann "Dot" Champagne Baldassaro

February 21, 1934 - January 22, 2021

Washington Parish Man Arrested for Drug Possession

On Sunday (January 24, 2021), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Sergeant David Cupp responded to a business in Varnado after a report of a man driving erratically. While headed to the area, Sgt. Cupp received a message from Varnado Police Officer Louis Adams reporting the suspect had parked his vehicle in front of the business establishment and entered the store.

When the suspect exited the store walking in an unstable manner, Sgt. Cupp confronted him and noticed the suspect’s speech was slurred and he smelled strongly of marijuana. Sgt. Cupp detained him and discovered a quantity of marijuana as well as narcotic pills in a plain unmarked container.

Gary B. Wehmeyer, age 62 and a resident of Highway 21, was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail. He was booked on charges of possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and two counts of possession of illegal narcotic pills.

“I’m so glad Mr. Wehmeyer was prevented from getting back on the highway,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Good job, Sgt. Cupp, on making this arrest and thanks, Officer Adams, for your assistance.”

Passenger Arrested After Traffic Stop/Drugs & Gun Found

While patrolling in Bogalusa last Thursday (January 21, 2021), officers with the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force observed a vehicle traveling at an excessive speed in a residential area. The vehicle was stopped and officers detected a strong smell of marijuana.

While the driver was being questioned about the possibility of drugs in the vehicle, the passenger produced a large bag of marijuana, prompting a vehicle search for additional illegal items. During the vehicle search, officers discovered and seized a Glock semi-automatic pistol which was concealed under the passenger seat.

The passenger, Kameron Kevonne Bickham, age 20 and a resident of St. Louis Street in Bogalusa, was arrested and booked into the Washington Parish Jail charged with possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with a weapon present.

“It’s always good when our officers are able to remove drugs from our community,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Our Drug Task Force officers are constantly moving throughout our parish in their quest to identify and arrest drug dealers. I congratulate them on this arrest.”

Slidell Stabbing Incident Results in Officer Involved Shooting

Around 4:30 p.m. Sunday (January 24, 2021) evening, Slidell Police responded to a report of a stabbing in progress at Circle K gas station (61104 Airport Road). Upon arrival, officers encountered the alleged suspect. Shots were fired by Slidell Police and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, resulting in the killing of the alleged suspect. At least two people were stabbed prior to the officers’ arrival. 

No officers were injured during the encounter. The Louisiana State Police is handling the officer involved shooting investigation. Slidell Police are investigating the initial stabbing incident. 

More details will be released as they become available. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today in History for January 25th

AP Top Stories January 25, 2021 AM

January 24, 2021

January 23, 2021

WPSS COVID-19 Positive Case Summary










Click here for more COVID-19 information from the Washington Parish School System

Obituary

Charles Marshall Richardson, Sr.

February 06, 1932 - January 21, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 22, 2021

Frank Chandler was booked on the charges of Failure to Change/Secure Registration, No Insurance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Na'Toria Moses was booked In From Court.

Zachary Spears was booked In From Court.

Mark Simmons was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer (4 counts) and Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence (4 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $7500.00 bond.

Jeffrey Miley was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jessica Hunt was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.


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Today in History for January 23rd

January 22, 2021

WP Council Agenda for January 25th Meeting

The Washington Parish Council will meet Monday (January 25, 2020). The meeting will be in the upstairs courtroom in Franklinton, Louisiana. The meeting may also be joined via Zoom. The meeting ID is 841 6519 9664 and the passcode is 318819. A Public Hearing will be held at 5:45 PM on the ordinance below The Council will then take up the Agenda.




Public Hearing (at 5:45 PM)

 Ordinance No. 21-675 – An Ordinance directing the renewal of the levy and collection of an ad valorem tax of ten (10) mills tax on assessed valuation of all property subject to taxation in the Parish of Washington, State of Louisiana, for a period of ten (10) years, beginning with the year 2022 and ending with the year 2031, for the purpose of constructing, improving, maintaining and resurfacing Parish roads and bridges, including incidental drainage and the acquisition of equipment therefor, with the proceeds of the tax subject to being funded into bonds for such capital purposes to the extent and in the manner provided by the laws of Louisiana.

AGENDA (at 6:00 PM)

1. Call to Order

2. Invocation

3. Pledge of Allegiance

4. Roll Call

5. Approval of Minutes – Approval of minutes dated January 11, 2021.

6. LSU Ag Quarterly Report – Beth Putnam, 4H Youth Development Professional.

7. Entergy - Patrick Hamby – Update on the progress of the new power plant outside of Bogalusa City limits.

8. Louisiana 5th Congressional District Seat Candidate – Colonel Chad Conerly.

9. Adopt Ordinance No. 21-675 – An Ordinance directing the renewal of the levy and collection of an ad valorem tax of ten (10) mills tax on assessed valuation of all property subject to taxation in the Parish of Washington, State of Louisiana, for a period of ten (10) years, beginning with the year 2022 and ending with the year 2031, for the purpose of constructing, improving, maintaining and resurfacing Parish roads and bridges, including incidental drainage and the acquisition of equipment therefor, with the proceeds of the tax subject to being funded into bonds for such capital purposes to the extent and in the manner provided by the laws of Louisiana.

10. Adopt Resolution No. 21-1063 – A resolution authorizing the Washington Parish Government to apply for and administer a grant through the Louisiana Governor’s Assistance Program (LGAP).

11. Adopt Resolution No. 21-1064 – A resolution of appointment for the Washington Parish Fire District No. 2. Board of Directors.

12. Adopt Resolution No. 21-1065 – A resolution authorizing the signing of the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for the audit of Washington Parish Government for the year ended December 31, 2020.

13. Public Participation 

14. President’s Report 

15. Council Discussion 

16. Adjourn 

Town of Franklinton Agenda for January 26th Meeting

The Town of Franklinton Mayor and Board of Aldermen will meet Tuesday (January 26, 2020) evening at 6:30 PM at the Franklinton Municipal Building. The Agenda is presented below.

AGENDA:

Other items added to the agenda will be done by unanimous vote of the Board of Aldermen prior to the beginning of the meeting.

Call meeting to order

Prayer and Pledge

Roll call

Old Business:

1. Approve minutes-January 12, 2021 Regular Meeting

New Business:

1. Departmental Reports

2. Public Hearing on Ordinance #1075-An ordinance setting aside Enterprise Funds to serve as security for construction of new well.

3. Adoption of Ordinance #1075-An ordinance setting aside Enterprise Funds to serve as security for construction of new well.

4. Public Hearing on Ordinance #1076-An ordinance to rename Section Line Road to Dr. James Stafford Drive.

5. Adoption of Ordinance #1076-An ordinance to rename Section Line Road to Dr. James Stafford Drive.

6. Approve hiring of Ms. Evelyn Tate – Public Works effective 2/1/2021

7. Accept resignation of Justin Stogner-Police Department effective 1/28/20218.

8. Approve to advertise for 2 positions – Police Department

ADJOURN

Obituary

Marvin Cyril Paige

September 02, 1935 - January 18, 2021

MS. Man Jailed for Drugs, Fighting Deputies, and More

While patrolling in the Pine area Wednesday (January 20, 2920), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies Kyle Stogner and Randall Garcia observed a motor vehicle violation and stopped the driver who was reportedly in possession of illegal drugs. Alex Weary, age 51, gave a Walthall County address. According to a WPSO press release, Weary had marijuana in plain view on the front passenger seat of his vehicle and, while being searched, was found to be in possession of additional drugs packaged in a plastic baggie.

As officers attempted to place handcuffs on Weary, he struggled and resisted. The deputies were able to restrain him with the assistance of Lt. Chris Hickman who arrived on the scene and placed leg restraints on Weary.

Weary has been in the Washington Parish Jail several times since 2009 with offenses including possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute, driving while intoxicated, resisting an officer with force or violence, battery on a police officer, purse snatching, convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and battery of a dating partner.

Weary’s current charges are possession of illegal drugs, resisting an officer, obstruction of justice and motor vehicle violations. Bond has been set at $3500.00. 

“Mr. Weary is well known to law enforcement,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “He is a repeat offender who seems to have not learned the life lessons necessary to live as a law abiding citizen. I appreciate Deputy Stogner, Deputy Garcia and Lt. Hickman for making this arrest and removing more illegal drugs from our parish.”

Obituary

Mary Lenora Burris Crain

March 14, 1930 - January 20, 2021

Obituary

Archie Davis

April 17, 1945 - January 22, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 21, 2021

Alex Weary was booked on the charges of License Plate Improper Display, Resisting an Officer, Obstruction of Justice, Possession of Marijuana (3rd Offense), Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Expired License Plate by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Preston Baham was booked on the charges of Theft 1000-5000 and Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.                                                                                                     

Kameron Bickham was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.



Obituary

Pedro Martinez Garcia

December 21, 1975 - January 16, 2021

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today in History for January 22nd

AP Top Stories January 22, 2021 AM

January 21, 2021

Warrants Lacombe Woman on Bank Fraud Charges

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Financial Crimes Unit wrapped up a year-long investigation this week by obtaining warrants for the arrest of a Lacombe woman on numerous bank fraud charges. Shania Dawn Obannon (age 47) is wanted on warrants for 21 counts of Bank Fraud, 1 count of Theft Between $1,000 and $5,000 and 14 counts of Theft Under $1,000. She is currently incarcerated in Orleans Parish Prison.

Between May 2019 and December 2019, Obannon reportedly perpetrated two separate bank fraud and theft schemes amounting to more than $18,000 in fraud. Her victims included 21 different banks, government entities and local businesses.

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office began their investigation in December of 2019 after a local business reported a check it received from Obannon for services was returned from a closed bank account.

Through an analysis of bank records, investigators learned Obannon had opened several accounts at various banks and was writing checks on those accounts without depositing funds into those accounts.  In some cases she was writing checks on accounts she had previously closed. She was also perpetrating a scheme known as “check kiting,” which involves using bad checks to open accounts at other banks.

Upon her release from Orleans Parish Prison, Obannon will be extradited to St. Tammany Parish Prison.

Free COVID-19 Testing in Washington Parish

Washington Parish Government advises that, in Partnership with the Louisiana Department of Health, Office of Public Health and the Louisiana National Guard, free COVID-19 testing will be available to the residents of Washington Parish on the following dates and times. The location will be at Cassidy Park, 625 Willis Avenue, Bogalusa, LA at the Performance Pavilion in the Park.

Dates: Tuesday, January 26th through Friday January 29th; Times: 9am-2:30pm;

Those wishing to be tested are highly encouraged to pre-register. The preregistration site is: Health.QuestDiagnostics.com/STLOU. You can also be registered on site. The site will use a self-administered nasal swab test that will allow those being tested to swab their own nose which will be observed by a trained medical volunteer to ensure the sample is taken correctly. 

Those being tested will need to wear a mask and socially distant at the test site. Your test results will be sent to you through the secure MyQuest online portal or app. For those who do not have email, you may obtain your test results by dialing 1-866-MYQUEST.

Obituary

Matthew Cade Dillon

October 6, 1984 - January 19, 2021

Obituary

Richard "Nose" Owens

June 25, 1942 - January 07, 2021

State Fire Marshal’s Office's 2020 Performance

State Fire Marshal Chief H. “Butch” Browning is announcing the agency’s 2020 performance outcomes which show, despite the operational limitations of the pandemic, taking on the new and fluid task of Covid-19 enforcement efforts and responding to multiple tropical system threats, that the agency maintained its productivity goals and remained resilient throughout the year. 

“The hurdles this agency has jumped over this past year have been numerous and daunting, but I am so proud of how each section of the State Fire Marshal’s Office not only responded, but thrived, in what otherwise has been an incredibly strenuous year for so many agencies, businesses and families,” said Browning.

In 2020, deputies conducted around 35,000 final inspections of new commercial buildings opening across the state as well as compliance inspections of existing commercial buildings. In addition, deputies inspected hundreds of fireworks stands and displays and responded to thousands of impairment reports on life safety and property protection systems in commercial businesses. On top of those regular duties, deputies conducted COVID-19 compliance visits and complaint responses starting in May when Gov. John Bel Edwards moved the state from the Stay At Home order into Phase 1 of the “Roadmap to a Resilient Louisiana” plan. That effort rendered more than 16,000 inspections by the year’s end, more than 12,000 of which were conducted by members of the State Fire Marshal’s Office alone. And that effort continues still today.

Obituary

Hamilton Burris

March 07, 1938 - January 21, 2021

$52 Million Modernization Plan for International Paper in Bogalusa

Today (January 21, 2021), Gov. John Bel Edwards and International Paper Bogalusa Mill Manager Bernie Chascin announced the company plans to invest up to $52.2 million in capital to increase the efficiency of the mill, which has been a manufacturing mainstay of Washington Parish for more than a century.

Through the project, IP plans to retain the mill’s 492 direct jobs that provide an average annual salary of more than $86,000, plus benefits. In Bogalusa, IP operates a paper mill and an associated corrugated box plant. The modernization program would enhance the paper mill’s efficiency by upgrading the recovery boiler system, along with filtration, condenser and acid system enhancements in the papermaking process.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 18-20, 2021

Benjamin Warren was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule III Drugs, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence (4 counts), and Resisting Arrest (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $150000.00.

Dwayne Butler was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Zach Kendricks was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault/Domestic Violence, Domestic Abuse Battery, Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, and Probation and Parole Hold by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Michael Magee was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $500.00.

Efrem Williams was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary, Resisting an Officer, and Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Datron Trotter was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle $25000 or More by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Julie Morgan was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Usage and Speeding 11-20 Over Limit by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $2500.00.

Peyton Breland was booked on the charge of Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $10000.00 bond.



Obituary

Regina Jarrell Singleton

July 29, 1962 - January 21, 2021

Obituary

Richard Burge

March 23, 1937 - January 20, 2021

Help Find This Missing Mt. Hermon Teen

Update: He has been found

Bobby Anderson, Jr., age 15, was last seen on Tuesday (January 19, 2021) around 9:30 p.m.  No one has seen or heard from him since. He is believed to be between Mount Hermon and Tylertown. 

If seen, please contact his dad Bobby Anderson 985-201-3928 or 985-788-5870.

Obituary

William Phillip "Phil" Bateman

November 10, 1943 - January 19, 2021

Obituary

Tammy Lee Moore

September 4, 1960 - January 19, 2021

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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