Jackson Lavern Brown
December 14, 1964 - September 12, 2025
September 16, 2025
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Make Landscape Bed Weed Management Easier for Yourself
Mulching is one of the best tools in the toolbox for managing weeds in landscape beds. It helps block light, which is needed for germination of some seeds and growth of plants, from reaching the soil surface.
A number of different materials can be used for mulch, such as pine bark, leaf litter, and compost, as well as pine straw. Spread mulch to a depth of about three to four inches.
We sometimes see mulch piled up at the bases of tree trunks (“volcano mulching”), but this is not recommended. Mulch piled against a trunk can keep it moist and contribute to plant disease problems. Avoid placing mulch immediately next to plants.
Natural mulch will decompose over time, so you’ll likely need to refresh it each year, or more frequently, to maintain a depth that will block sunlight from reaching the soil surface and adequately suppress weed growth.
I occasionally get questions about using herbicides in landscape beds. We do have some options but need to be careful to avoid injuring the plants that we want to keep.
Because most landscape ornamentals are broadleaf plants rather than grasses, if your weeds are true grasses, that makes things easier. Some herbicides containing sethoxydim (e.g., Bonide GrassBeater II, Fertilome Over-The-Top II Grass Killer, Hi-Yield Grass Killer, Monterey Grass Getter, Segment II), clethodim, fluazifop-p-butyl (e.g., Fusilade II, Ornamec 170 Grass Herbicide, Ortho Grass B Gon Garden Grass Killer), or fenoxaprop can be used around and over the top of many non-grass ornamental plants.
Where sedges are a problem, some halosulfuron-methyl and imazaquin products can be used around certain ornamentals.
There are herbicides that can be used to kill already-germinated weeds growing along the edges of landscape beds. Some with the active ingredient glufosinate ammonium (e.g., Bonide KleenUp High Efficiency Weed & Grass Killer Concentrate, BioAdvanced Weed and Grass Killer Super Concentrate, Fertilome Decimate Weed & Grass Killer, Finale XL T&O, Martin’s Nullify A/P) can be used in this manner. There are also products containing ammonium nonanoate, pelargonic acid, or a combination of caprylic acid and capric acid that can be used along the edges of beds.
Some glyphosate products can be used along the edges of beds, too, but these need to be used with great care. Glyphosate is systemic, and if it drifts onto desirable plants, it can injure or kill them, too.
This leaves us with a question about what herbicide options exist for broadleaf weeds that grow within landscape beds. For these, there are pre-emergence herbicides. Pre-emergence herbicides prevent germination of weed seeds rather killing weeds that are already there. (Many of these prevent germination of grassy weed seeds, too.)
Some active ingredients to look for in pre-emergence herbicides for landscape beds include trifluralin (e.g., Hi-Yield Herbicide Granules Containing Treflan or Preen Garden Weed Preventer), dithiopyr (e.g., Hi-Yield Turf & Ornamental Weed & Grass Stopper Containing Dimension), and the combination of trifluralin and isoxaben (e.g., Preen Extended Control Weed Preventer).
Many pre-emergence herbicides need either water (from rainfall or irrigation) or incorporation (e.g., with a rake or tiller) to be effective. Read the product label to find out what needs to be done.
To prevent germination of cool-season annual weeds, a pre-emergence herbicide can be put out around the second half of September. For warm-season weeds, it can be put out beginning around mid-February. Sometimes, an additional application is needed during the season to maintain a barrier to seed germination.
Pre-emergence herbicides won’t prevent the presence all weeds. Perennial weeds come back from roots as well as from seed. It’s best to use pre-emergence herbicides in combination with other weed management approaches, like mulching.
In any case, if you plan to apply an herbicide, make sure that whatever product you choose is labeled for use around the types of plants that you have, and follow label directions.
If you do end up with some weeds that need to be removed by hand – and most of us will – keep in mind that a hoe is primarily a tool for scraping, not digging. When you turn over soil, you’re likely to bring buried weed seeds to the surface, where they may germinate. If you just scrape the surface of the soil enough to uproot small weeds, you can minimize the number of weed seeds brought to the surface.
Finally, remember that it’s important to manage weeds before they flower and go to seed, to minimize future weed problems.
The third class in the gardening and lawn care series will take place next Tuesday, September 23, at 6 PM at the Lee Memorial Forest Main Lodge (21139 Lee Memorial Drive, Franklinton). Please join us if you’re interested! Call or email me to register or for more information. The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.
Let me know if you have questions.
Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages
Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 15, 2025
Kimberly Smith (age 40 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Kyra Bowden (age 29 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, and Proper Equipment Required by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Sharmon McNabb (age 48 with Picayune, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Yield Left, No Seat Belt, Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Driving While Intoxicated, Driving Under Suspension, No Proof of Insurance, and Expired License Plate by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Jeromy Gabbard (age 37 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Illegal Discharge/Use of Weapon, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Criminal Damage by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Melissa Keesler (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 65. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. Central Tropical Atlantic (AL92: A broad low pressure area is located about midway between the Windward Islands and the coast of west Africa. Environmental conditions are conducive for additional development, and a tropical depression or storm is likely to form in the next day or two as the system moves west-northwestward or northwestward at 10 to 15 mph over the central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...90 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...90 percent.
Disturbance 2. Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is emerging off the west coast of Africa. Some slow development of this system is possible towards the mid to latter part of this week as it moves westward at 15 to 20 mph. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
September 15, 2025
Letter to Editor: Divide Tax Money Equally Among Teachers & Support Personnel
Submitted by Colleen Bateman, President Washington Parish School Bus Operators Association
I am writing this letter to you, to ask that All citizens of Washington Parish, Please get with your District School Board Member. Ask them to please be in Support of the Tax Money that will be coming in …. Be DIVIDED EQUALLY AMONG TEACHERS and SUPPORT PERSONNEL!!!!!
SUPPORT PERSONNEL means exactly what it says. WITHOUT US, the System WOULD NOT WORK!!!!
WITHOUT BUS OPERATORS, the Children would not be Driven to and from school. We are the one constant person in some of our Students lives that is there for them for Thirteen to Fourteen years of their life!! They become Family to us!!!
WITHOUT CAFETERIA WORKERS, Children WOULD NOT GET FED!!!!
WITHOUT CUSTODIANS, Schools WOULD NOT GET CLEANED, SANITIZED, GRASS AND SCHOOL GROUNDS WOULD NOT BE MAINTAINED!!
WITHOUT MAINTENANCE, The AIR CONDITIONERS, HEAT, ETC…. WOULD NOT BE MAINTAINED!!
WITHOUT PARAPROFESSIONALS, The STUDENTS THAT NEED EXTRA HELP TO SUCCEED IN LIFE WOULD’NT GET THE FULL EFFECT OF THE EDUCATION THAT THEY DESERVE!!!
WITHOUT ALL OFFICE STAFF, THE SYSTEM COULD NOT FUNCTION ON A DAILY BASIS!!!
No, WE DO NOT ALL HAVE DEGREES BUT WE ARE ALL CERTIFIED AND TRAINED YEARLY FOR THE JOBS THAT WE DO AND THE ROLES THAT WE HAVE IN MAKING EDUCATION HAPPEN FOR THE STUDENTS OF LOUISIANA AND WASHINGTON PARISH!!!
THEREFORE THE MONEY SHOULD BE DIVIDED EQUALLY!!!!
WE LOVE AND APPRECIATE OUR TEACHERS!!!! THIS IS NOT TO TAKE AWAY FROM THE IMPORTANT ROLE THEY HAVE IN ALL OF THIS!!!
BOTTOM LINE IS IT TAKES ALL OF US TO MAKE THIS HAPPEN!!!
THE DIFFERENCE IN SOMEONE WITH A DEGREE IS ALREADY REFLECTED IN THEIR REGULAR SALARY BEING HIGHER THAN NON DEGREE PERSONNEL…. THIS TAX MONEY IS BEING PAID THROUGHOUT WASHINGTON PARISH BY EVERYONE AND IT IS ONLY FAIR THAT IT GET DIVIDED EQUALLY !!!
IT SEEMS TO ME THAT IT WOULD BE UNETHICAL THAT BOARD MEMBERS WITH IMMEDIATE FAMILY MEMBERS BEING TEACHERS…. TO VOTE FOR A TEACHER TO GET MORE THAN THE REST OF US THAT ARE JUST AS DESERVING!!!
I Will End with this…. As the 1st graders of Enon Elementary sang a song (Spread a Little Sunshine) at the last School Board meeting … I am asking that the Community Stand behind SUPPORT PERSONNEL OF WASHINGTON PARISH SYSTEM and REACH OUT TO YOUR BOARD MEMBER AND ASK THEM TO EQUALLY “SPREAD A LITTLE SUNSHINE “ TO US!! PLEASE COME OUT AND SHOW YOUR SUPPORT TO US AT THE OCTOBER 23, SCHOOL BOARD MEETING !! THANK YOU!!! SPREAD THAT SUNSHINE!!!
Pedestrian in Bogalusa Killed in Crash
Shortly before 9:00 p.m. on September 13, 2025, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single-vehicle crash involving a pedestrian on LA 21 at LA 3124 in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 60-year-old Jackson Brown of Bogalusa.
The initial investigation revealed that Brown was walking south in the right southbound lane of LA 21. At the same time, a 2023 Nissan Sentra was also traveling south in the same lane. For reasons still under investigation, the front bumper of the Nissan struck Brown.
Brown sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene. The driver of the Nissan was properly restrained, sustained minor injuries, and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Impairment is unknown; however, routine toxicology samples will be submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 12-14, 2025
Darrin Dykes (age 18 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted First Degree Murder and Illegal Discharge/Use of Weapon by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Justin Owens (age 35 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Marijuana by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Michael Beaver (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Battery, Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts), and Resisting an Officer by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Ashley Mooney (age 32 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. West wind around 5 mph becoming northeast in the afternoon.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Central Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave over the central tropical Atlantic is producing a large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms. The disturbance will begin to move into a more favorable environment for development in the next couple of days, and a tropical depression is likely to form by the middle to latter part of this week as the system moves west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph over the central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...40 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...80 percent.
September 14, 2025
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. Calm wind.
Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tuesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Eastern and Central Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave over the eastern tropical Atlantic is producing a large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Although dry and stable air is expected to limit development during the next couple of days, gradual development is anticipated thereafter, and a tropical depression is likely to form during the middle to latter part of this week as the system moves west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph over the central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...70 percent.
September 13, 2025
Letter to the Editor from Bogalusa Council President Gloria W. Kates
Submitted by Bogalusa Council President Gloria W. Kates
There was a bit of extreme concern on our procedures when amending the 2025 budget.
The City Of Bogalusa is under the Home Rule Charter which is allowed to amend the budget before adoption of the budget according to Question #37 in the FAQs of the Local Government Budget Act R.S. 39:1305 (F)
Note on the Law “Local Government Budget Act: RS. 39:1305(F), which authorizes a governing authority under the Home Rule Charter to make amendments to the proposed budget prior to adoption, it limits the power of the Lawrason Act municipalities to amending the proposed budget only to the extent that the amendments do not substantially change the proposed budget.
Any act of the board of a Lawrason Act municipality that would provide for the appropriation of funds, the incurrence of debt, or the issuance of bonds or other evidence of indebtedness shall be by ordinance. “
Therefore, Bogalusa City under the Home Rule Charter that can basically make whatever amendments the council wants before adoption of a budget. Again to reiterate the Lawrason Act is built on towns and municipalities in which the law is different. The law specifically provide that they cannot do provisions if they want to amend the budget due to limitations in the Lawrason Act.
September 12, 2025
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
You Don’t Have to Wait for Cold Weather to Plant Some Cool-Season Vegetables
It may not feel like it right now, but we’re approaching a time of year when we can plant many of our cool-season vegetables. Some can be planted earlier and some later, but almost all can be planted between mid-September and mid-October. These include cabbage, kohlrabi, broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts, bok choy, greens (collard, kale, mustard, turnip), radishes, beets, carrots, lettuce, shallots, garlic, and green (“English”), sugar snap, and snow peas.
There are a few exceptions. Seed pieces of white (“Irish”) potatoes can be planted between August and mid-September and again in late winter, and transplants of bulb-forming onions that grow well in Louisiana should be set out between mid-December and January. Fava beans aren’t a very common crop here, but I understand that the time for sowing these is October through November.
A second sweet spot during which a lot of cool-season veggies can be planted is late January through February. Cabbage, kohlrabi, broccoli, cauliflower, greens, radishes, beets, carrots, lettuce, shallots, and white potatoes can be planted at this time. Many can be established earlier or later, too.
If you want to give the garden a rest, you might consider seeding a fall cover crop. Cover crops can be used to build up soil organic matter, take nitrogen from the air and put it in the soil (in the case of plants in the bean family, or legumes), prevent loss of nutrients from the soil during the off-season (after adding compost or manure, for example), suppress weed growth, and prevent erosion. The first half of October is a time when many cool-season cover crop species – such as cereal rye, annual ryegrass, wheat, oats, hairy vetch, and crimson clover – can be planted.
The second class in the gardening and lawn care series will take place next Tuesday, September 16, at 6 PM at the Lee Memorial Forest Main Lodge (21139 Lee Memorial Drive, Franklinton). Please join us if you’re interested! Call or email me to register or for more information. The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.
Let me know if you have questions.
Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages
Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).
La. AG Murrill's Office Arrests 3 in Slidell in Separate Cases
Case 1. Agents with Attorney General Liz Murrill's Louisiana Bureau of Investigation arrested 34-year-old Dominique Denzel Palmer of Slidell on September 11, 2025 on the charges of Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material under the Age of Thirteen (8 counts), Sexual Abuse of an Animal (3 counts), and Obstruction of Justice. The investigation began when LBI agents received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The arrest was a result of a joint investigation with The Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) Cyber Crime Unit, 22nd Judicial District ICAC Task Force, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Covington Police Department.
Case 2. Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill's Medicaid Fraud Control Unit arrested 45-year-old Tasha Hayes of Slidell on September 11, 2025.on the charges of Medicaid Fraud (3 counts). Hayes used a fake driver’s license and Social Security Number to falsify her identity in an effort to conceal a prior felony conviction in order to gain employment with several Medicaid providers. During their investigation, Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU) agents discovered that Hayes had a 2019 conviction for Second degree battery, which she failed to disclose. This arrest was part of a joint operation with agents from the LADOJ Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, LBI Fugitive Apprehension Unit, LSP Fugitive Task Force, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Case 3. Agents with Attorney General Liz Murrill's Louisiana Bureau of Investigation arrested 23-year-old Marc Ploesser of Slidell on September 5, 2025 on the charges of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material under the Age of Thirteen (27 counts) and Sexual Abuse of an Animal (1 count). This arrest was a result of a joint investigation with The Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) Cyber Crime Unit, the Slidell Police Department, and the Covington Police Department. “Cases like these are always disturbing for our LBI Cyber Crime Unit agents. I’d like to thank them for their hard work on this case, along with the Slidell Police Department and the Covington Police Department," said Attorney General Liz Murrill.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 11, 2025
Leia Smith (age not listed - Bogalusa address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Return Rental Property by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Kevin Levi (age 62 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Burning by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
William Payne (age 41 with Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charge of 2nd Degree Murder by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Kenneth Easley (age 58 with Ponchatoula, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $6500.00.
Braxton King (age 21 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Hit and Run and Driving While Intoxicated by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2950.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Released from Jail - Needed a Ride - Stole a Car - Back in Jail
On Wednesday (September 10, 2025), Slidell Police Officers were alerted to a stolen vehicle out of Baton Rouge that was actively pinging near Home Depot on Northshore Boulevard. The car was found unoccupied in the parking lot, so officers waited.
Moments later, 49-year-old David Callahan of Petal, Mississippi, casually walked back to the stolen car . . . only to be met by officers who immediately took him into custody.
As it turned out, Callahan had just been released from jail in Baton Rouge earlier that morning after being extradited from Mississippi for several warrants. With no ride home to Mississippi, he went with what he thought was the next best option: steal a car.
Callahan showed up at a used car lot claiming to have $5,600 in cash and said he was ready to buy. He picked out a 2009 Honda Accord and left on a test drive with an employee. But before they even got on the road, they needed to stop for gas. When the employee went to pump the fuel, Callahan hit the gas and took off
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 68. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Saturday Sunny, with a high near 92. Light and variable wind becoming northeast 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 65. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Sunday Sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Eastern and Central Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is located near the west coast of Africa. Environmental conditions appear conducive for some gradual development of this system over the next several days. A tropical depression could form by the middle part of next week while it moves westward to west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph over the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent. Formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.
September 11, 2025
Bogalusa City Council meeting of September 10, 2025
Go to https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1lNOOi7YWieWq6yqJrCA13Q-s5PZ8MqCL?
usp=sharing for good quality video of the Bogalusa City Council's meeting on September 10, 2025. It is in three segments.
Livestream of the meeting was poor in terms of audio and video due to slow internet.
Mount Hermon School Threat Neutralized Within Minutes
An online threat to the Mount Hermon School was removed within minutes today (September 11, 2025) by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office.
A student at the school made a threat involving a weapon on social media. Shortly after the post was made, the FBI notified the WPSO.
Sheriff’s deputies from across the parish immediately responded to the incident. The faculty and staff enacted standard lockdown procedures and there was no active threat.
Later, Sheriff Smith characterized the incident as "careless talk" and advised that the student has been charged with Terrorism and Communication of a Threat in order to Illicit an Emergency Response.
Sheriff Jason Smith wants to thank and commend the faculty and staff for their timely and orderly action following standard protocols, ensuring everyone’s safety.
Sheriff Smith and the WPSO have been collaborating with all schools in the parish to develop new policies and procedures tailored to each school and their needs in emergency situations.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 8-10, 2025
Kenique Simmons (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, and Possession of Contraband in a Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $7500.00 bond.
Christine Kerry (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Speeds Unsafe for Posted Zones, Failure to Use Turn Signal 100 ft. Prior to Turn, Ran Stop Sign, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $10000.00 bond.
Dustin Cothern (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Jakeithon Smith (age 22 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, Aggravated Flight From an Officer, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Aggravated Obstruction of Commerce/Roadway, Resisting an Officer, and Racketeering. Bond set at S$250000.00.
Louis Hayslip (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Can You Help? Series of 15 Vehicle Crimes in Tickfaw Area
UPDATE at 3:26 PM on September 11, 2025: The suspect, a 14 year-old male from the Tickfaw area has been identified, taken into custody, and booked in the Florida Parishes Juvenile Detention Center on 15 counts of Vehicle Burglary and 2 counts of Possession of a Stolen Firearm. This investigation is ongoing and additional charges are anticipated.
_____________________________________
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help gathering information about a series of vehicle-related crimes in the Tickfaw area believed to be connected.
Overnight on Saturday (September 6, 2025) into Sunday (September 7, 2025) at least one suspect is seen on multiple surveillance videos breaking into vehicles on Chapel Road in Tickfaw and Chandler Place in Hammond. At this time, TPSO has logged more than 15 reports, one with a confirmed gun stolen, that are believed to be connected to this spree.
The suspect is described as a tall, thin black male wearing all black clothes, a white face mask, blue gloves, blue and white tennis shoes and a light blue backpack. In at least one video, it appears he is holding a gun.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who this suspect is, or additional cases, to contact the Criminal Investigations Office at 985-902-2088.
If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! Tips submitted directly through Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 68. Calm wind.
Friday Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 66. Calm wind.
Saturday Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 65. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Eastern and Central Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is forecast to emerge offshore of west Africa by Friday. Environmental conditions could support some slow development of the system over the weekend into early next week as the wave moves to the west or west-northwest at about 15 mph over the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.
September 10, 2025
Boy’s and Girl’s State Participants at American Legion
Sheriff Jason Smith attended the Magic City Post 24 American Legion Banquet on Monday, September 8, 2025 to meet with and congratulate the young men and women who participated in Boy’s and Girl’s State. This program is a hands-on educational program where high school juniors learn about state government by participating in mock state government and civic activities.
“Programs like these benefit our community by teaching children responsibility, leadership, collaboration and how the government is run,” Commander Donald Kuhn, Sr. said.
During the banquet, Sheriff Smith commended the participants for stepping outside of their comfort zone. “It can be a difficult thing to volunteer to participate in something of which you’re not quite sure, in a place you’ve never been, with a bunch of people you’ve never met. You should all be very proud that you were bold enough to step forward. The world will always need people who are willing to step up and get involved. You’ve all made your families very proud,” Sheriff Smith said.
Girl’s State delegates left to right: Shelbylee Carney Paper Queen and Girl’s State delegate from Bowling Green School, Addison Leos from Franklinton High School, Kate Schilling from Bowling Green School, Ella Dorset from Bowling Green School, Monche’ Ree Johnson from Bogalusa High School and Christiana Bickham from Varnado High School.
Girl’s State delegates who were not in attendance include Kensli Jenkins and Anniston McKenzie from Pine High School, Addie Brown from Franklinton High School and Madyson Ross from Bowling Green School.
Boy’s State delegates left to right: Dustin Ginn from Pine High School, Desmond Letraile Weary Jr. from Varnado High School, Gavin Roy Evans from Varnado High School, Gavin Reese Davis from Ben's Ford Christian School, Darrell Joni Wells from Bogalusa High School, Timmottyhanes Kawisakai Boudreau from Bogalusa High School, Jordon MD Tate from Bogalusa High School and Traelyn Jeremiah Brown from Bogalusa High School.
If you’re interested in learning more about Boy’s and Girl’s State or the American Legion contact Commander Kuhn at 985-516-9927.
Arrest Made in Slidell-area Home Invasion
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested 35 year-old Kenneth Lyons of Slidell following a Slidell-area home invasion.
Shortly after 4 a.m. Tuesday (September 9), St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's deputies were dispatched to the 1200 block of Cousin Street in Slidell in reference to a female being attacked and stabbed inside her residence.
A male had called 911 to advise he and the female were asleep inside the residence when a black male, later identified as Lyons, forced entry into the home. Lyons proceeded to physically attack the female, and at one point retrieved a knife and began stabbing and cutting the female several times. The male acquaintance fled from the home and called 911.
Pursuant to the investigation, Lyons was taken into custody and transported to the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center, where he is being booked for L.R.S. 14:27/30 Attempted Murder, L.R.S. 14:62.8 Home Invasion, and L.R.S. 14:34 Aggravated Battery. The Aggravated Battery charge stems from a previous incident involving the same female that wasn’t initially reported to law enforcement. No bond has been set as of this report.
The female was transported to an area hospital, where she was treated and released.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
LSU AgCenter Hammond will host 5th annual Fall Garden Day and Plant Sale!
Mark your calendars! The LSU AgCenter Hammond Research Station invites you to its fifth annual Fall Garden Day and Plant Sale on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 7:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at 21549 Old Covington Highway, Hammond, LA 70403.
This family-friendly event will take place rain or shine and offers something for everyone—from seasoned gardeners to curious newcomers.
Browse a wide selection of high-quality plants grown at the station, including chrysanthemums, Louisiana Super Plants, annual bedding, pollinator plants, houseplants, herbs, veggies, trees, shrubs, and unique species from our research station.
Enjoy educational sessions led by LSU AgCenter specialists on topics such as seasonal landscape design, pest and weed control, vegetable gardening, lawn care, and the latest research updates.
Fun for the whole family! The Tangipahoa Master Gardeners host fun children’s activities, a mini plant sale, plant swap, education booths, and a garden shop in tandem!
Support Local Horticulture - Proceeds from the plant sale help advance the station’s mission to support Louisiana’s ornamental horticulture industry. This year, funds will go toward restoring the Piney Woods Garden—damaged during Hurricane Ida—and upgrading plant production areas to better serve research and outreach efforts.
There is a $5 parking fee for each vehicle. For more information about activities and event schedule, please visit https://tinyurl.com/y6sbrxm4.
Washington Parish Sheriff in Search of Dog and Cat Food Donations
A Message from the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office
As the number of strays in Washington Parish continue to rise, Sheriff Jason Smith is kindly asking for donations of dog and cat food.
Our deputies utilize the feed daily, transporting it to animals living with families in need and in the handling of strays. In doing so, we are attempting to prevent dumping or starvation. To be able to provide these meals, we are asking for donations of dog and cat food from the public and local businesses.
Any donations will be accepted, and we are asking that they be dropped off at the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office in Bogalusa or Franklinton. Dry food, wet food, canned, bagged, recently expired—Our animals aren’t picky eaters, and we will graciously accept anything that you are willing to donate.
Thanks for your help as we work hard to ensure the safety of animals and the public.
WPSO Bogalusa—302 Mississippi Ave. Bogalusa, LA
WPSO Franklinton—1002 Main St. Franklinton, LA
The Empty Chair Project is at 10 AM This Friday at the Courthouse
A Message From Hope Alive Recovery
On Friday, September 12th at 10:00 AM on the front steps of the Washington Parish Courthouse, we will gather to remember the lives lost to drug poisoning in Washington Parish. We invite you to stand with us as our community comes together for healing and hope.
Each empty chair will represent a life lost in Washington Parish this year. The display will remain at the courthouse for one week as a reminder of those we have lost. These chairs speak of the empty places left at family tables and gatherings across our community. We encourage you to visit the display with your family and friends, so that together we can better understand the risks of drug use and the importance of prevention.
Families and friends are also welcome to bring a personalized chair or photo to display at the ceremony in memory of a loved one lost to overdose at any time in the past. You may bring your own chair and personal items such as photos, clothing, or mementos to represent their life and memory. Please contact Mandi Boyd at 985 335 0713 to arrange setup.
Fentanyl continues to be the number one offender in these tragic deaths. The Empty Chair Project is a reminder of the impact of addiction and a call for hope, healing, and recovery. If you are struggling with an addiction, you can recover. Please join us at Hope Alive meetings every Sunday night at 7pm.
Hope Alive is a Christ centered recovery group that meets on Sunday nights at 7pm at Mt Hermon UPC with food & fellowship at 6:15. Meetings are free of charge; Dress is casual. We are court approved 12 step meetings for Washington Parish.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny, with a high near 90. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
Tonight Clear, with a low around 65. Calm wind.
Thursday Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night Clear, with a low around 65. Calm wind.
Friday Sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night Clear, with a low around 66. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)