ATVs are a common sight in rural Louisiana, but they can also be dangerous without proper training. Louisiana 4-H and Our Lady of the Lake Children's Hospital are teaching young riders the skills they need to stay safe before hitting the trails. Also, click here to learn about the Louisiana ATV/UTV Safety Task Force
July 18, 2026
This Week in Louisiana Agriculture
This week's show takes a look at emerging pests like the invasive pasture mealybug, groundbreaking research, helping young riders stay safe through hands-on ATV training, Louisiana Farm Bureau Queen Jean Treas at her family's roadside produce stand, and what the late actor Sam Neill had to do with agriculture.
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Dwarf Morning Glory Brings Long-lasting Blue Color to the Garden
Cultivated varieties of dwarf morning glory (Evolvulus spp.), including Blue Daze and Blue My Mind, tolerate heat well and produce small blue flowers for a long time during the warm season.
They’re tender perennials that can survive the winter in USDA Hardiness Zones 9 and warmer, though I would suggest providing cold protection during very cold periods. Or, you can treat them as annuals.
Unlike some of their morning glory relatives in the Convolvulus and Ipomoea genera, they’re not invasive and weedy.
Blue Daze and Blue My Mind were named Louisiana Super Plants for 2023. These are low-growing, spreading plants that can be used as a ground cover or as a “spiller” in containers with a “thriller, filler, spiller” combination. They grow to roughly 6 to 12 inches tall and 8 to 16 inches wide. The hairy green leaves remind me of oregano in shape and size.
The name Blue Daze has been around for quite a while and is a little confusing, as it’s sometimes treated as a cultivar and sometimes used as a common name for the species Brazilian dwarf morning glory (E. glomeratus). Blue My Mind (‘USEVO1201’, Evolvulus hybrid) is a more recently introduced, patented variety that has performed very well at the Hammond Research Station.
Plant dwarf morning glory after the last frost, on a sunny site with good drainage.
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 July 17, 2026
Terek St. Julien (age 30 with a New Iberia, La. address) was booked on the charge of Introduction of Contraband into a Penal Institute by the Department of Corrections. No bond set at this time.
Shaneice Spikes (age 34 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Bench Warrant/Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $358.00.
Kathryn Huff (age 35 with a Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Derrick Farley (age 43 with a Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked In For Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Tropical Disturbances Today
In the Northern Gulf of America and near Florida is an upper-level low and a surface trough. Some gradual development of this system is possible while it moves slowly northward or north-northwestward during the next few days. Interests along the Florida west coast and Florida Panhandle should monitor the progress of this system as it is expected to bring heavy rain to portions of that region during the next several days. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the morning.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 106. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Monday Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
Safe Harbor Announces GALA In Support of Survivors of Domestic Violence
Safe Harbor is proud to announce its annual fundraising gala, taking place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, beginning at 7:00 p.m., at the Harbor Center. This special evening will bring together community members, local businesses, and supporters to raise critical funds that help provide safety, resources, and hope for individuals and families affected by domestic violence.
Safe Harbor is hard at work as the Real Superheroes of Safe Harbor assemble and prepare to make a difference. Everyone is encouraged to keep their eyes open as the Heroes will be announced soon and will be recruiting the public’s support.
The Gala will feature an exciting live auction, a silent auction, live music, and opportunities for guests to connect with others who share a commitment to ending domestic violence and supporting survivors. Every dollar raised during the event will directly benefit Safe Harbor's mission of providing essential services and advocacy for victims of domestic violence.
Domestic violence affects individuals of every age, background, and community. Through emergency assistance, supportive services, advocacy, and community education, Safe Harbor works every day to help survivors rebuild their lives and move toward a future free from violence.
Safe Harbor invites individuals, businesses, and community partners to attend, sponsor the event, or contribute auction items. Together, we can help ensure that victims of domestic violence have access to the resources, support, and safe spaces they deserve.
Event Details:
- Event: Real Superheroes of Safe Harbor Gala 2026
- Date: Saturday, September 19, 2026
- Time: 7:00 p.m.
- Place: The Harbor Center, 100 Harbor Center Blvd, Slidell, LA 70461
- Purpose: Fundraiser benefiting Safe Harbor and its programs for survivors of domestic violence
For sponsorship opportunities, ticket information, or to donate an auction item, please contact: Amanda Santos, Safe Harbor Community Educator Event Coordinator a.santos@safeharbornorthshore.org , Phone Number 985-626-5710 Ext. 201 https://safeharbornorthshore.org/real-superheroes-of-safe-harbor Follow on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SafeHarborNorthshore/
July 17, 2026
New Council on Aging Site Serving the Mt. Hermon and Vernon Communities
The new Council on Aging Nutrition Site officially opened today (July 17, 2026) at Plainview Church of Christ Holiness. The location is 24649 Vernon School Road, Mt. Hermon, Louisiana 70450.
This marks the Council on Aging's fifth location serving seniors throughout Washington Parish and provides the Mount Hermon and Vernon communities with daily meals, resources, support, fellowship, and activities, thereby improving the quality of life for our senior citizens.
Sheriff Jason Smith said it was an honor to be invited and encouraging to see our community growing in ways that help our neighbors.
Parish President Ryan Seal also attended the ribbon cutting and wished them continued success as they serve the residents of Mt. Hermon and the surrounding community.
If you’re looking for more information on the Washington Parish Council on Aging, visit www.washingtoncoa.org. Also, go to their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/groups/222219010731187/
Conviction in Slidell String of Armed Robberies
District Attorney Collin J. Sims announces that on July 16, 2026, a St. Tammany Parish jury found 36-year-old Kevin Borden of New Orleans, Louisiana, guilty on all counts for a string of armed robberies committed at Slidell convenience stores in the summer of 2022. Following a trial in front of the Honorable Judge Richard Swartz, the jury convicted Borden of three (3) counts of Armed Robbery with a Firearm and three (3) counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of Certain Felonies
The conviction stems from three armed robberies of convenience stores that occurred within the Slidell city limits over 17 days:
- June 16, 2022 (8:50 PM): RaceTrac, located at 1717 Shortcut Highway.
- June 26, 2022 (11:30 PM): Circle K, located at 350 Voters Road.
- July 3, 2022 (9:50 PM): Moody’s Time Saver, located at 2100 Gause Boulevard East.
During each incident, the perpetrator wore a black face covering, a white baseball cap, a grey and white DKNY hooded sweatshirt, and brandished a black and silver handgun. Victims consistently described the robber as having distinct face tattoos. Investigators with the Slidell Police Department utilized a combination of public outreach, digital evidence, and DNA analysis to bring Borden to justice.
Video surveillance from the RaceTrac robbery showed the perpetrator fleeing in a dark-colored SUV with a light-colored right front fender. Footage from the third robbery at Moody's Time Saver, received from a business across the street from Moody’s, captured the perpetrator fleeing in a white Audi Q5.
After the Slidell Police Department shared surveillance clips on Facebook, Slidell Police Department detectives received information that a vehicle matching the description was seen coming and going from a residence in New Orleans East. Detectives conducted surveillance on the residence and observed the same individual matching the description from the robberies. Slidell detectives cross-referenced regional Real-Time Crime Camera footage from a camera adjacent to the residence, tracking the Audi Q5 leaving and returning within the travel windows matching the three robberies. During the Moody’s Time Saver robbery, the offender handled a bottle of orange soda with bare hands before leaving it on the counter. The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office extracted DNA from the bottle, which yielded a presumptive match to Borden through the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). On July 13, 2022, during surveillance of the New Orleans residence, Borden attempted to flee from a traffic stop, striking an occupied, unmarked FBI vehicle before crashing the Audi Q5 into a gas pump on Chef Menteur Highway and continuing his flight on foot.
At the time of his apprehension, Borden was wearing the same grey Converse shoes and white hat worn in each of the robberies, and was carrying $1,104 in cash, primarily in small denominations. A search of the vehicle and his residence yielded a Glock .40 caliber handgun, clothing matching the surveillance videos, and black surgical masks.
"This conviction is a testament to the seamless collaboration between our prosecutors, the Slidell Police Department, and our federal partners," said District Attorney Collin Sims. "Borden targeted local businesses and threatened the safety of our community at gunpoint. Because of the diligent work of law enforcement and the strength of the evidence presented by our trial team, a violent, career offender is off our streets for good."
Because Borden is a four-time felony offender, he faces a mandatory sentence between 99 years and life imprisonment. Judge Swartz has scheduled sentencing for September 9, 2026.
Assistant District Attorneys Christina Fisher and John Almerico prosecuted the case on behalf of the State. The prosecution was made possible by the thorough and dedicated investigation conducted by the Slidell Police Department.
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 16, 2026
Katherine Brennan (age 28) was booked on the charge of Simple Criminal Damage to Property by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jennifer Beleto (age 40) was booked on the charge of Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Forbidden by the Mandeville Police Department.
James Salvant (age 26) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Drug
Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Carlos McCray (age 48) was booked on the charges of Driving Without Headlights, Possession of Schedule I, Obstruction of Justice/Simple Assault, Driving Under Suspension, Fugitive, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Covington Police Department.
Lorrie Bailey (age 43) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule III CDS and Illegal Window Tint by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Barry Freas (age 44) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery and Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Johnny Bautista (age 39) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Terry Jones (age 30) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Allen Alvarez (age 36) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (2nd Offense), Second Degree Rape, and False Imprisonment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office
Francis Durio (age 25) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Angelika Orme (age 39) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Danthony Smith (age 29) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Charlotte Miller (age 71) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.
Ian Knight (age 23) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
James Worthern (age 61) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kayshaun Wilson (age 25) was booked on the charges of Simple Assault, Disturbing the Peace, and Cyberstalking by the Covington Police Department.
Torian Hall (age 34) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 16, 2026
Indiya Woods (age 39 with a Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign, No Seat Belt, Possession of Marijuana, and Driving While Intoxicated by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Herman Garrett (age 78 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Pay Fine by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Shelby Bordelon (age 26 with a Mandeville, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. A broad area of low pressure, associated with a tropical wave, is located about 175 miles southeast of the Cabo Verde Islands and is moving west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph. Significant development of this system is not expected before environmental conditions become even less favorable for development over the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.
Disturbance 2. An area of low pressure is forecast to form this weekend over the northeastern Gulf of America. Some gradual development of this system is possible while it meanders over the northeastern Gulf, northern Florida, or the extreme western Atlantic near northeastern Florida early next week. * Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Sunday Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind.
July 16, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 15, 2026
Luke Harrell (age 22) was booked on the charges of Violation of Protection Order and Obscenity by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Joseph Pavur (age 46) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Matthew Bryant (age 39) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kayden Hamilton (age 18) was booked on the charge of Battery of Dating Partner/Strangulation by the Slidell Police Department.
Byron Lemon (age 35) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Charles Malcom (age 61) was booked on the charges of DWI, Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle, Open Container in Motor Vehicle, and Driver Must Be Licensed by the Slidell Police Department.
Skyler Jenkins (age 36) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole.
Antoinette Bordes (age 36) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kendall Stiltner (age 29) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Johnny Polk (age 52) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Schami Tassin (age 30) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Lillian Young (age 30) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Mark Nicholson (age 57) was booked on the charge of Criminal Trespass by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Theronae Evans (age 34) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Malik McCallum (age 21) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS, and Obstruction of Justice by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Allan Perreand (age 37) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kristopher Hall (age 22) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Chasity Gallo (age 47) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS, and Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Rodney McClain (age 47) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS, Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Falsely Representing CDS, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Fabian Hartley (age 22) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Lacombe Repeat Sex Offender Sentenced to 30 Years
District Attorney J. Collin Sims announces that on July 15, 2026, the Honorable Judge Scott Gardner sentenced 59-year-old Howard Lindsey, Jr., of Lacombe, Louisiana, to 30 years in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Lindsey was sentenced as a multiple offender following a jury conviction for failure to register as a sex offender.
Lindsey’s requirement to register stems from a March 31, 2004, conviction for Attempted Forcible Rape in St. Tammany Parish, for which he was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Following his release, Lindsey failed to comply with his legal obligations and was arrested again in February 2017 for failing to satisfy the Notification of Sex Offenders and Child Predators statutes. He was convicted of that violation and received another 10-year prison sentence.
Lindsey remained incarcerated until December 16, 2023. Two days later, on December 18, 2023, he reported in person to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO) Sex Offender Registry to complete his post-incarceration registration, listing his residence in Lacombe.
During that intake, registry staff noted that Lindsey became argumentative, claiming he was no longer a sex offender and was not required to register. He refused to listen as deputies explained his continuing legal obligations, including providing a mandatory Verification of Address (VOA) and paying the state-mandated fees required to complete his Community Notification. Registry workers instructed Lindsey to return by January 8, 2024, with his completed compliance materials and documentation.
Within days of his initial release, the STPSO Sex Offender Registry was advised that Lindsey had already relocated to an apartment in Lacombe. Due to holiday office closures, registry staff instructed Lindsey to contact the office on the morning of December 27, 2023, to officially update his address and receive adjusted community notification instructions for his new location.
Lindsey failed to make contact on December 27, neglected to report for his mandatory compliance date on January 8, 2024, and made no subsequent efforts to correct his status or notify the surrounding neighborhood of his presence. His failure to complete these tasks violated Louisiana Revised Statute 15:542.1, which mandates that sex offenders strictly update changes of address in person and fulfill all community notification requirements.
"Sex offender registration laws are not administrative suggestions - they are vital safeguards designed to keep our families and neighborhoods safe," District Attorney Collin Sims said following the sentencing. "When a convicted sex offender openly refuses to follow the law, downplays his offenses, and hides his whereabouts from law enforcement, he presents an immediate risk to public safety. This 30-year sentence sends a clear message that we will hold non-compliant offenders fully accountable."
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Gary Tromblay and Taylor Nicholson. The investigation was led by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Sex Offender Registry Division.
Bogalusa Fourth Offender Sentenced To 80 Years in Prison
District Attorney J. Collin Sims reports that James Spikes, Jr., age 48 and of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced on July 15, 2026, by the Honorable Judge Scott Gardner to 80 years in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Spikes was recently convicted by a St. Tammany Parish jury of felony charges related to Fentanyl trafficking and illegal weapon possession following a trial before the Honorable Judge Scott Gardner.
Click here for previous related stories
Judge Gardner sentenced Spikes to serve 80 years in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 28 Grams or More but Less than 250 Grams of Fentanyl. He was additionally sentenced to 20 years in prison for Carrying a Concealed Weapon (brass knuckles) by a Person Convicted of Certain Felonies. Both sentences are to be served without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence, and will run concurrently. Spikes was officially adjudicated as a fourth felony offender.
"Fentanyl is a poison that continues to threaten the safety of our families and our community," DA Sims said. "This defendant was trafficking a significant quantity of these deadly pills while armed with brass knuckles - an illegal weapon in the hands of a convicted felon. My office remains committed to aggressively prosecuting those who bring these dangerous substances into our district, and this 80-year sentence ensures a habitual offender will no longer endanger our streets."
The case originated from a proactive enforcement operation on August 18, 2024, along Highway 36 in Covington. A Deputy with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Spikes. During the stop, deputies recovered brass knuckles from Spikes’ person. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a backpack containing a concealed container with 963 fentanyl pills, totaling approximately 135 grams.
During the trial, the State presented undercover videos as evidence of the defendant's involvement in narcotics distribution. In one of the recordings shown to the jury, Spikes was heard boasting that he could obtain as many as 30,000 fentanyl pills.
The case was investigated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the Louisiana State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant District Attorneys Gary Tromblay and Jay Adair prosecuted the case.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 15, 2026
Roy King (age 59 with a Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Mastin Myrick (age 45 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Malcom Haley (age 50 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. 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 94. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
Friday Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Saturday Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Northwest wind around 5 mph.
Saturday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph after midnight.
Tropical Disturbances Today
Disturbance 1. A tropical wave is located southeast of the Cabo Verde Islands. Some slow development is possible during the next day or two while the system moves generally west-northwestward at about 10 mph. By this weekend, the system is forecast to move into a less conducive environment, and further development is not expected. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.
Disturbance 2. An area of low pressure in the Northeastern Gulf of America and offshore of the Southeastern U.S. is forecast to form this weekend over the northeastern Gulf of America. Some gradual development of this system is possible while it moves slowly northeastward over the northeastern Gulf and near the coast of the southeastern United States early next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
July 15, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 14, 2026
Quinelle Tyson (age 28) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of Drug
Paraphernalia, Ignore Traffic Signal, Illegal Window Tint, and Possession of Schedule I by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Anthony Hardy (age 57) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Failure to Stop/Yield, Simple Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce, Improper Lane Use, and Aggravated Flight From Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Paige McKay (age 36) was booked on the charge of Prohibited Acts/Schedule
IV by the Pearl River Police Department.
Averi Faust (age 20) was booked on the charges of DWI, Negligent Injury, Intentional Littering Prohibited, Careless Operation, and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Richard Munster (age 55) was booked on the charges of Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, Possession of Schedule IV, Possession of Schedule III CDS, Possession of Schedule II, and Habitual Offender Law/Sentences for Second and Subsequent by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Thomas Puckett (age 44) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule IV, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Michael Piazza (age 43) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Failure to Stop/Yield, and Driving Under Suspension by the Louisiana State Police.
Jacolby Dotey (age 31) was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of a Place of Business and Simple Burglary by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Antonio Ward (age 33) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule I CDS, Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment, Domestic Abuse Battery/Pregnant Victim, Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of Persons Under, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Antonio Miller (age 28) was booked on charge(s) not listed by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Laqwenta Deamer (age 32) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Dwayne Cousin (age 35) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Fugitive (2 counts), Contempt of Court (2 counts), and Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond (2 counts) by the Louisiana State Police.
Candace Pierron (age 42) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Zyrone Lopez (age 24) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Sajay Stevenson (age 20) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Brandi Davis (age 40) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Jared Knox (age 46) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Preston Blair (age 45) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Darren Singletary (age 56) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jermaine Burns (age 45) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Driving Under Suspension, Improper Turn, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear (2 counts) by the Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Horace Stewart (age 82) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Folsom Police Department.
John Erwin (age 72) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Theft 1000-5000 by the Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Alesha Bergens (age 35) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Drug Paraphernalia, Improper Turn, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Carlon Black (age 46) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Parish Council Hears More on Solar Facility Issues
The Washington Parish Council meeting on July 13, 2026 had nothing on the Agenda related to any solar issues, with the exception of comments by Austin Magee, Candidate for Louisiana's Congressional District 5. However, most of the meeting consisted of questions and comments regarding just that. See the video of the meeting below. Austin Magee's comments begin at 7:00 into the video. Questions and comments regarding solar begins at about 30:50 into the video.
If you have not seen the previous meeting, you may want to view video of the July 9, 2026 meeting that was called to consider a moratorium on solar and other related projects. Click here to see video of that meeting
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 14, 2026
Daquay Cerigny (age 48 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Prohibited Acts by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.
Sharday Williams (age 24 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Nonconsensual Disclosure of Private Picture and Cyberstalking by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $12000.00.
Jaquan Brumfield (age 31 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I/Principle, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I/Ecstasy, and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Craig Anderson (age 42 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Protective Order Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
D. A. Collin Sims Reports Guilty Plea and 22-Year Sentence of New Orleans Man
District Attorney J. Collin Sims reports that on July 13, 2026, Kevin L. Carr, age 39 and of New Orleans, pled guilty and was sentenced to 22 years in prison by the Honorable Judge Vincent J. Lobello. Judge Lobello sentenced Carr to serve 20 years in prison on the narcotics and weapons charges, plus an additional 2 years to be served consecutively for the stolen firearm charge. Assistant District Attorney Shelby Stoop prosecuted the case.
The felony charges to which Carr pled guilty are listed below:
- Possession of 2 grams or more but less than 28 grams of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance (Tapentadol)
- Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance (oxycodone)
- Possession with intent to distribute a Schedule III CDS (Buprenorphine)
- Illegal possession of stolen firearms
- Illegal carrying of weapons while in possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
- Illegal carrying of weapons while in possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
- Illegal carrying of weapons while in possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance
- Possession of a firearm or carrying a concealed weapon by a person convicted of certain felonies
- Possession of a firearm or carrying a concealed weapon by a person convicted of certain felonies
- Possession of a firearm or carrying a concealed weapon by a person convicted of certain felonies
- Transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses
The charges stem from a multi-agency investigation that began on July 13, 2023 when Slidell Police Department Narcotics Detectives identified Carr as a primary distributor or narcotics in the Slidell area. Following surveillance, detectives observed Carr conducting an apparent hand-to-hand narcotics transaction in Slidell. After attempting to elude officers, Carr was stopped and detained. A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed ripped baggies containing drug residue, drug residue on the floorboard, a digital scale, and $1,921 in cash.
Following the traffic stop, a search warrant was executed at Carr’s residence by the Slidell Police Department, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, and the FBI Gang Task Force. Law enforcement recovered a host of illicit narcotics – including oxycodone, suboxone, and tapentadol - alongside three firearms in a bedroom accessible to two juveniles. One of the recovered firearms had been previously reported stolen out of New Orleans. The narcotics were found in the family kitchen, stored near the children’s snacks. Furthermore, incriminating text messages requesting narcotics and referencing transactions were visible on the home screen of Carr’s cell phone.
“Illicit narcotics and firearms are a deadly combination that compromises the safety of our neighborhoods and puts innocent lives, including children, at risk," District Attorney Collin Sims said. "Thanks to the collaboration between the Slidell Police Department, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, and the FBI Gang Task Force, a source of dangerous narcotics has been removed from our streets. This 22-year sentence reflects our unwavering commitment to hold drug dealers accountable and protect our community."
Following his guilty plea, Carr was remanded to the custody of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.
Tropical Disturbances Today
An area of low pressure is expected to form during the weekend over the northeastern Gulf of America. Subsequent slow development of this system is possible while it moves slowly northeastward over the northeastern Gulf and or near the southeastern coast of the United States by early next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Partly sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. Calm wind.
Thursday Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Friday Sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Friday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
July 14, 2026
STPSO Joins Fentanyl Overdose Response Team
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office has joined the DEA Fentanyl Overdose Response Team, strengthening a statewide partnership dedicated to investigating fentanyl-related overdose deaths, dismantling drug trafficking networks and holding those responsible accountable.
The team brings together experienced investigators, prosecutors and public safety partners to share intelligence, coordinate investigations and target the people responsible for bringing fentanyl into Louisiana communities.
Under Louisiana law, anyone who distributes fentanyl or other illegal drugs that result in a fatal overdose can be charged with murder.
"Fentanyl continues to devastate families in St. Tammany and across Louisiana, and we are committed to doing everything we can to stop it," Sheriff Bret Ibert said. "Having one of our investigators serve on this team strengthens our ability to send a clear message that there is no place for this dangerous drug in St. Tammany Parish."
By having an investigator assigned to the Louisiana Fentanyl Overdose Response Team, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office gains access to additional investigative resources, specialized expertise and real-time intelligence from law enforcement agencies across the state. That collaboration will help connect cases that cross parish lines, identify larger drug trafficking organizations and strengthen overdose investigations.
"Our community expects us to work together to protect them, and that's exactly what this partnership allows us to do," Ibert said. "When agencies combine resources and intelligence, we're better equipped to identify the people responsible for bringing fentanyl into our communities, hold them accountable and help prevent future overdose deaths."
The partnership has the support of prosecutors and federal law enforcement leaders, who say it will strengthen efforts to investigate overdose deaths and bring those responsible to justice.
“The addition of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office to the DEA Fentanyl Overdose Response Team further strengthens the collaborative network of law enforcement and prosecutors committed to combating the fentanyl crisis,” District Attorney Collin Sims said. “Working together, we can build stronger cases, share critical intelligence, and ensure those who distribute this deadly drug are held accountable under Louisiana law. Our office remains committed to seeking justice for victims and their families while doing everything we can to prevent future overdose deaths.”
“By welcoming the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office to the Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), we are tearing down jurisdictional walls to share real-time intelligence and target the drug trafficking organizations driving this epidemic,” added Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott, of the New Orleans Field Division. “We are fully committed to working alongside Sheriff Ibert and his team to investigate these poisonings as homicides and bring justice to the families devastated by these crimes."
Ibert stressed that the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office has zero tolerance for anyone who sells fentanyl in our community.
"If you're dealing fentanyl in St. Tammany Parish, we're going to do everything we can to find you and hold you accountable," he said. "If your actions cost someone their life, we're going to pursue every legal avenue available, including second-degree murder charges when the law allows. There is no place for fentanyl in St. Tammany Parish.”
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 13, 2026
Hope Paquette (age 44) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Gustavo Lopez (age 38) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Cody Crouch (age 36) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court, Violation of Protection Order, Telephone Communications/Improper/Harassment, and Stalking by Agency not listed.
Homero Garcia (age 34) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kenneth Wagner (age 45) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Corey Procop (age 39) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Evan Heintz (age 35) was booked on the charge of Exploitation of the Infirmed by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kerry Isidore (age 28) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Mario Aguirre (age 28) was booked on the charge of Theft 5000-25000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Juan Gutierrez (age 37) was booked on the charge of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by Bondsman.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 13, 2026
Darren Baham (age 33 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $50.00.
Jamie McNeese (age 26 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to Juveniles by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Chance Turner (age 23 with a Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts), Domestic Abuse Battery, Simple Assault, and Resisting an Officer by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond information is incomplete at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Arrests Made in Tangipahoa Parish Copper Thefts
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested five suspects in at least three separate recent copper theft cases.
- The first case involved two stolen A/C units and a third unit stripped from a church on Highway 1065 in three separate incidents. Thanks to the neighbors around the church sharing their tips and home surveillance cameras, the two suspects were caught right across the street with one of the stolen units still on site. Arrested were 47-year-old Robert Myrick, 46-year-old Jeremy Thompson, and 45-year-old Robert Magee. Myrick and Thompson were each booked on one count each of Burglary of a Religious Building, Theft, and Simple Criminal Damage to Property. Magee was booked on one count each of Simple Criminal Damage to Property and Theft. At the time of Magee's arrest, he was already in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on a different copper theft case from earlier this month and, since this arrest, has been booked in a third copper theft case from the last week of June.
- The second case began when TPSO received a call from a local scrap yard about a white male and white female having tried to sell a large amount of suspected stolen copper. Detectives who had been working several ongoing copper theft investigations quickly found the suspect vehicle, with all of the materials piled in the back of the pickup truck, and arrested the two suspects. Chrystal Watson, age 37 of Roseland, was arrested on an outstanding Felony Failure to Appear charge while Adam Warren, age 39 of Roseland, was booked on a Theft warrant out of Mississippi. At this time, it is believed that the recovered property is connected to multiple thefts here in Tangipahoa Parish and in Mississippi and detectives are actively working to connect the items to the pending and possibly unknown cases.
- The third case is an open copper theft investigation that detectives are currently asking the public’s help with. The theft was caught on camera on June 28, 2026 and involves an A/C condenser stolen from an 82-year-old man’s shop on Crapanzano Road in Hammond that is costing him $20,000 to replace.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who this suspect is, or their whereabouts, to contact the TPSO Criminal Investigations Division at 985-902-2088.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 50 percent chance of showers with thunderstorms after 10am. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 86. Light west wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday Sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Thursday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 74. Calm wind.
July 13, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 12, 2026
Brandon Brooks (age 36) was booked on the charges of Bicycles/Front Lamps, Side and Rear Reflectors
Required and Refusing to Provide Correct Identity by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christopher Franke (age 23) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Improper Turn by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Laura Martin (age 42) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.
Shannon Crowell (age 56) was booked on the charges of DWI and Possession of Schedule II by the Slidell Police Department.
Chelsea Luckett (age 33) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Clint Bowley (age 45) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Vicki Vaughn (age 43) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kelden Barnes (age 34) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the Covington Police Department.
Sheila Stanga (age 70) was booked on the charge of Tampering With Surveillance Accounting Inventory or Monitor by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Braydon Pierre (age 19) was booked on the charges of Illegal Use of Weapon and Illegal Carrying of Weapon During Crime of Violence by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Rayburn Correctional Welcomes Six Cadets
On Friday, July 10, 2026, Rayburn Correctional Center celebrated the graduation of Academy Class 289,
marking the successful completion of the training program by six cadets. Warden Keith Bickham, Deputy Warden Kevin Luper, and the staff of Rayburn Correctional Center extend a warm welcome to these new graduates. We look forward to observing their growth and achievements as they embark on their careers.
Congratulations to Angela Galloway, Bianca Goddard, Marcus Harry, Da’Marion Newkirk, Breanna Riley, and Jacob Stogner.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 11-12, 2026
Nautica Miner (age 23 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Obstruction of Justice, and Contempt of Court by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.
Joseph Graves (age 51 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation. No bond set at this time.
Thomas Bernard (age 47 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Blocking of Private Driveways, Highways, and Right of Ways by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.
Calvin Reed (age 62 with a Carrollton, Ga. address) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jacob Burr (age 24 with an address not listed) was booked on the charge of Video Voyeurism by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. 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 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 5pm. High near 84. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 3pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. .
Wednesday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 90. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
July 12, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for July 11, 2026
Marshall Keelen (age 31) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.
Tahj Lewis (age 22) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule I by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tangie Davis (age 43) was booked on the charges of Driving Under Suspension and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription by the Mandeville Police Department.
Darren Leboeuf (age 47) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.
Donald Cyprian (age 22) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Courtney Payton (age 36) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight From Officer, Expired License Plate, Possession of Schedule I, and Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS by the Slidell Police Department.
Kernell Jolla (age 32) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Adrian Andre (age 32) was booked on the charges of DWI, Driving Under Suspension, and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Causeway Bridge Police.
Chase Farrell (age 24) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault With Firearm by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Donald Brooks (age 32) was booked on the charges of Theft 1000-5000 and Fugitive by the Mandeville Police Department.
***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 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tonight A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Monday A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 84. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Monday Night A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
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