Man Arrested on Child Exploitation in St. Tammany

On May 4, 2026, the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit, working in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, arrested 31-year-old Richard Nelson of New Orleans for attempting to engage in sexual acts with a minor.

Nelson traveled from his residence in New Orleans to a meeting location in St. Tammany Parish with the intent to engage in sexual activity with a minor. As a result, Nelson was arrested for Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Indecent Behavior with Juvenile, and Attempted Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile. He was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail. This case remains active and no further information is available at this time. 

The Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit works to rescue and seek justice for victims of child exploitation and human trafficking through partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as public education. The public plays a crucial role in identifying suspects and reporting criminal or suspicious activity. An anonymous reporting form is available online at http://la-safe.org/ by clicking the “Suspicious Activity” link. Your vigilance helps protect vulnerable members of our communities and supports the fight against exploitation and trafficking.

Covington Businessman Charged With Kratom Distribution

Hareez Saleh Ali, age 34 and of Mandeville and owner of Candy & Tobacco Discounts, was arrested on April 30, 2026 as part of an ongoing investigation into the illegal distribution of kratom by businesses in St. Tammany Parish. Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division launched the investigation after receiving numerous complaints about tobacco shops in the parish allegedly selling kratom.

The investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at Candy & Tobacco Discounts, located at 100 S. Tyler Street in Covington. During the search, detectives seized approximately 2,709 dosage units of kratom, 12 disposable vaporizer devices containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), $7,461 in cash, and a 2018 Buick Enclave SUV believed to have been used to facilitate the distribution of kratom.

Hareez Saleh Ali is charged with Distribution of Kratom (3 counts), Possession with the Intent to Distribute Kratom (greater than 500 grams), Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), and Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses,

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

On August 1, 2025, Louisiana enacted Senate Bill 154 (Act 41), making it unlawful to possess, produce, or distribute kratom in the state. The law classifies kratom’s primary alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, as Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substances, placing them in the same legal category as heroin and LSD.

The legislation followed growing public health concerns, as families across Louisiana have reported cases of addiction and loss linked to kratom use. In St. Tammany Parish, a 36-year-old woman’s 2023 death prompted a coroner’s public health warning regarding the dangers of the substance, particularly when combined with other drugs.

“This arrest is part of our ongoing effort to hold individuals and businesses accountable for distributing illegal and potentially dangerous substances in our community,” said Sheriff Randy Smith. “Kratom is now classified as a Schedule I drug in Louisiana, and we will continue to aggressively enforce the law to protect the citizens of St. Tammany Parish.”

Sheriff Smith urges anyone with information about individuals or businesses selling kratom or other illegal drugs in St. Tammany Parish to submit a tip through the Sheriff’s Office website at www.STPSO.com or by calling the narcotics tip line at 1-888-GO-2-JAIL.

3 Arrested Near Mandeville - Drugs, Guns, Cash Found

Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Proactive Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic
stop on a gray 2003 Volkswagen Passat on April 30, 2026. During the stop, a search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 271 Tapentadol tablets, one marijuana blunt, two 9mm pistols, and $1,053 in cash.

Arrested were

18-year-old Ryan Brown for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule I CDS, Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offense, Illegal Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS, Obscured Windshield and No Motor Vehicle Inspection Sticker.

18-year-old Jacori Blair for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS and Illegal Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS.

18-year-old Kylen Williams for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS and Illegal Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 4, 2026

Jeffrey Lemoine (age 42) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Mandeville Police Department.

Herlin Valle (age 24) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Second Degree Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Montana Lipford (age 26) was booked on the charges of Interfering With a Law Enforcement Investigation and Resisting an Officer by the Slidell Police Department.

Alexander Matthews (age 30) was booked on the charges of Disturbing
the Peace/Drunkenness, Battery of a Dating Partner With Strangulation, and Resisting an Officer by the Slidell Police Department.

Garrett Griggs (age 48) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment, Flight From Officer, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Vincent Palmisano (age 37) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense) by the Slidell Police Department.

Michael Gibson (age 36) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute CDS, Attempt and Conspiracy, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Louisiana State Police.

Miguel Olquin (age 31) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute CDS, Attempt and Conspiracy, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Louisiana State Police.

Ernesto Ruiz (age 47) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute CDS, Attempt and Conspiracy, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Louisiana State Police.

Derrick Jones (age 36) was booked on charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court by Agency not listed.

Sajay Stevenson (age 20) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

James Clark (age 44) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court, Contempt of Court, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear.

Lahidja Gross (age 31) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by Agency not listed.

James Carlisle (age 52) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.

Kirwyn Massey (age 25) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

William Tackett (age 53) was booked on the charges of Violations of Registration Provisions, Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Covington Police Department.

Gustavo Lopez (age 37) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.

Justin Blair (age 35) was booked on the charges of Violation of Protection Order (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Lavoski Davidson (age 40) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Cory Robin (age 36) was booked on the charge of Driving Under Suspension by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Tazmaine Swords (age 29) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Cameron Williams (age 33) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery of the Infirm, Aggravated Obstruction of Highway of Commerce, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Hit and Run, Resisting an Officer, and Violation of Protection Order by the Slidell Police Department.

James Gordan (age 43) was booked on the charges of DWI and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Two Consecutive Life Sentences Plus 40 Years Agreed to by Murderer of Ruth Prats and Father Otis Young

Today (May 5, 2026), with the agreement of the victims’ families, Antonio Tyson entered pleas of guilty to two counts of first‑degree murder and one count of obstruction of justice in connection with the murders of Ms. Ruth Prats and Father Otis Young. Sentencing has been scheduled for June 8, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.

Click here for previous related stories

Under the terms of the agreement, following victim impact testimony from members of both Ms. Prats’ and Father Otis Young’s families, Tyson will be sentenced as follows:

Life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence on each count of first‑degree murder, with those life sentences to be served consecutively; and

40 years at hard labor on the obstruction of justice count, to be served consecutively to the two life sentences.

The defendant has also agreed to forego any present or future efforts to seek sentence reduction or any release mechanism now or at any time in the future. As part of the agreement, the defendant will be housed under conditions equivalent to those on death row, subjecting him to the same confinement conditions he would have faced while awaiting execution. This condition was included to address the families’ desire that the defendant remain under conditions reflecting the severity of the crimes, while avoiding the prolonged appeals and collateral litigation that would follow a capital trial and sentencing that the State may not have been able to reliably execute.

Background and Reasons for the Resolution

The District Attorney’s Office had been pursuing the death penalty and the weight of the evidence in the case gave the State confidence that it would secure convictions. However, defense counsel presented compelling medical evidence over the past seven weeks raising meaningful concerns under Atkins v. Virginia regarding the defendant’s intellectual impairment and whether a death sentence could ultimately be carried out. While this evidence did not raise doubt as to Tyson’s guilt, his competency to stand trial, or his sanity at the time of the offenses, it did create significant risk that a death sentence imposed at trial would not withstand appellate review and thus barring the state from executing the sentence of death.

After multiple briefings and discussions with the victims’ families explaining the implications of the Atkins evidence and the risks and delay associated with pursuing capital punishment that might not ultimately be practicable, the State and the families agreed to a negotiated resolution.

This agreement removes the possibility that Tyson would receive a death sentence if convicted at the trial that was scheduled to begin on June 1, 2026. The resolution reflects the State’s careful evaluation of the law, the evidence presented by the defense, and the families’ informed participation and agreement.

District Attorney J. Collin Sims stated, “This outcome should not be interpreted as a reflection on whether the death penalty would otherwise be appropriate. The facts and circumstances surrounding the defendant’s guilt certainly warrant capital punishment given the heinous nature of the offense. However, historical IQ testing from the defendant’s childhood, MRI findings, and other documentation provided evidence of a traumatic brain injury and a significantly low level of adaptive functioning. Based on these factors, it would be challenging to overcome the legal standards established by the Supreme Court in Atkins v. Virginia. As a result, there is a strong likelihood that the State would have ultimately been precluded from pursuing an execution. Therefore, this plea agreement secures the maximum punishment legally available considering Atkins and ensures that the time served is as restrictive as possible, as if he was on death row, while relieving the family from a lifetime of appellate challenges.

The defendant’s guilty plea and agreed consecutive life sentences reflect the thorough work of the Covington Police Department, and particularly the investigation led by Cyrus Kety. Father Otis Young and Ruth Prats were deeply selfless, devoted servants to our community and their loss leaves a profound and lasting void for their loved ones and for everyone who benefited from their compassion and leadership.”

Obituary

Andre Charles Gandolfi

November 18, 1949 - May 3, 2026

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 4, 2026

Clyde Smith (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Flight (2 counts) and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2000.00.

Leslie Davis (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Stolen Things 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

Mary Haik (age 67 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation and Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $2500.00.

Danita Jones (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

James Thomas (age 49 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Cocaine by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.000.

Dedric Robinson (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Open Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $100000.00.

Nekeilya Pack (age 28 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Carter Macfarland (age 37 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign, Open Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $60000.00.

Fredrica Ramsdell (age 34 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Cocaine by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Keri Thomas (age 60 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kevin Robertson (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Emilee Williams (age 32 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation (2nd or Subsequent Violation) and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Dallas Magee (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Threntha Lynn Ratliff-Etienne

May 20, 1960 — April 17, 2026

Obituary

Patricia A. Garland

October 29, 1960 — April 29, 2026

Obituary

Lynn Norris

August 20, 1950 - May 1, 2026

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 83. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tonight   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday   A 60 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 1pm. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 86. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Wednesday Night   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. South wind 5 to 10 mph. 

Thursday   A 80 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 78. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming north in the afternoon. 

Thursday Night   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. North wind around 5 mph. 

Obituary

Jaliyah Mashae Howard

January 24, 2011 — April 30, 2026

Washington Parish Council Agenda for May 4, 2026

The Washington Parish Council will meet at 5:30 PM on May 4, 2026 in Council Chambers at the Courthouse in Franklinton. The meeting will  be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv  On the Agenda are the following:

• A Public Hearing on Ordinance No. 26-785: Adopt an Ordinance Authorizing Washington Parish Government to Enter into a Predial Avigation Servitude Agreement.

• A Public Hearing on Ordinance No. 26-786: Adopt an Ordinance Establishing "No Thru Truck Routes" on Certain Parish Roads as per Ordinance Number 13-577.

• Proclamation: Nurses Week

• Proclamation: Mental Health Awareness Month.

• Judge Blair Edwards: Candidate, Louisiana Supreme Court, District 1.

• Blair Alford: Candidate, 22nd Judicial District Court Judge, Division C.

• Appeal: Filed March 18, 2026, concerning the decision of the Washington Parish Planning Commission on March 17, 2026, in the matter of Conditional Use Permit Application #2025-12-1916, proposing a new cell tower.

• Ordinance No. 26-785: Adopt an Ordinance Authorizing Washington Parish Government to Enter into a Predial Avigation Servitude Agreement.

• Ordinance No. 26-786: Adopt an Ordinance Establishing "No Thru Truck Routes" on Certain Parish Roads as per Ordinance Number 13-577.

• Ordinance No. 26-787: Introduce an Ordinance Amending Ordinance No. 19-649, Adjusting Commercial Customer Fees at the Choctaw Road Landfill and Other Matters Related Thereto.

• Ordinance No. 26-788: Introduce an ordinance to Levy Taxes for 2026 - Millage at the Same Rate as Prior Year - On Property Subject to Taxation in Washington Parish.

• Resolution No. 26-1487: Adopt a Resolution to Enter into a Contract with Rock Solid Trail Contracting, L.L.C. for Phase VI of the Mountain Bike Trails Project at the Bogue Chitto State Park.

Following Public Participation, the Council will hear reports from the Parish President and his staff before adjourning 

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 3, 2026

Maria Dolan (age 70) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Battery of a Police Officer, Aggravated Flight From Officer, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Aggravated Battery, and Second Degree Battery by Agency not listed.

Jesse Carlin (age 43) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Rykiah Thompson (age 24) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner/Dangerous Weapon by the Slidell Police Department.

Scott Stearns (age 50) was booked on the charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Daquan Ratliff (age 31) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jakhia Sabatier (age 18) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to Juveniles and Disturbing the Peace/Simple Assault by the Covington Police Department.

Shronda Richardson (age 52) was booked on the charge of Criminal Trespass by the Covington Police Department.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture

In this week’s show, we take a closer look at mental health on the farm. We also break down expanded disaster relief support and a Supreme Court case that could impact crop protection tools. We visit the Natchitoches Fish Hatchery and head to Livingston Parish to see Louisiana’s first Clydesdale ranch.  This and much more.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 1-3, 2026

Cesar Guzman (age 34 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of No Taillight, Open Container, and Driving While Intoxicated by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

Kamaneisha Brown (age 38 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Conspiracy to Possess Narcotics With Intent by the Louisiana State Police and on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $100000.

Eric Causey (age 41 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Pay Fine. No bond set at this time.

Shekeil Ratliff (age 45 with Osyka, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Bench Warrant/Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $534.00.

William McCrory (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction 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   Sunny, with a high near 79. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 55. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Tuesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. South wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. 

Wednesday Night   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 5 to 10 mph. 

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 2, 2026

Leann Simon (age 40) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Cruelty to Juveniles by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Kimberly Robinson (age 48) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer by Refusing to Identify, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule 1, Possession of Schedule II, and Obstruction of Justice by the Slidell Police Department.

Thomas Paul (age 39) was booked on the charges of Fugitive, Driver Must be Licensed, Violations of Registration Provisions, Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule 1 by the Slidell Police Department.

Christina Thoulion (age 39) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.

Olivia Jones (age 30) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the Slidell Police Department.

Lance Manton (age 30) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Brad Lato (age 41) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Edward Jones (age 40) was booked on the charges of DWI, Maximum Speed Limit, and Driving Under Suspension by the Louisiana State Police.

George Aviavolasiti (age 20) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Matthew Burkart (age 30) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Careless Operation, and Expired Vehicle Inspection Sticker by the Causeway Bridge Police.

Joshua Schwandt (age 22) was booked on the charges of Driving Under Suspension, Driver Must be Licensed, and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles/Display of Plate by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Monica Matherne (age 57) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Resisting an Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Another Drive-By Shooting in Hammond, Suspects Sought

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help identifying and locating two suspects accused of shooting at several vehicles at around 4:30 p.m. Saturday (May 2, 2026)

Two men opened fire on another vehicle at the intersection of Stein Road and Old Baton Rouge Highway in Hammond before driving away. Two cars were actually hit, but at this time, no injuries have been reported.

The suspect vehicle has since been located abandoned. Detectives have determined the two suspects are the individuals seen in the surveillance video from a nearby convenience store where they visited just before the incident. Images shown are from the surveillance video.

Anyone with information about who these suspects are, and/or their whereabouts, can contact our Criminal Investigations Division at 985-718-7086. 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! You 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 76. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 51. Calm wind.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 79. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Monday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 55. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Tuesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. South wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Obituary

Chasity Hernandez

January 14, 1982 – April 27, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 1, 2026

Alexander Hughes (age 19) was booked on the charge of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Chad Blondiau (age 36) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Improper Lane Usage, and Driving Under Suspension by the Louisiana State Police.

Jacori Blair (age 18) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jake Lee (age 28) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Mandeville Police Department.

Ryan Brown (age 18) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, Illegal Window Tint, and Expired MVI Sticker by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kylen Williams (age 18) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Samuel Nettles (age 52) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.

Christin Grady (age 39) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Caleb Francis (age 26) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Misdemeanor Sexual Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Harold Reed (age 52) was booked on the charge of Periodic Renewal of Registration by Offenders by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kane Sanders (age 23) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Candice Breland (age 37) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Marquis Watkins (age 32) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Tremayne Scott (age 29) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Brent Baumgartner (age 46) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Alberto Baza (age 70) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Earl Fank (age 68) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Driving Under Suspension, and No Tag Displayed by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Alicia Resendez (age 18) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Paul Skipper (age 53) was booked on the charges of DWI, Maximum Speed Limit, and Resisting an Officer by the Louisiana State Police.

Orry Mejia (age 42) was booked on the charges of Sexual Battery (2 counts) and Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Arrest Made in 2020 Assault of Elderly Woman in Amite

The Amite City Police Department has arrested Rickey Smith in relation to a violent incident that took place in 2020 involving an elderly victim.

The investigation began on May 23, 2020, when officers responded to a report of an assault in the parking lot of a local business in Amite. The victim, an elderly woman, was getting into her vehicle when Smith allegedly approached her, opened the car door, and tried to forcibly remove her from the vehicle. During the altercation, Smith made physical contact with the victim. When bystanders in the area began approaching to help, Smith grabbed the victim’s purse and fled the scene.

During the initial investigation, detectives gathered DNA evidence from both the victim’s vehicle and her person. This evidence was sent for analysis. In April 2026, the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab confirmed that the DNA collected from the scene matched that of Rickey Smith. Following these results, investigators obtained an arrest warrant and Smith was taken into custody on April 22, 2026, and charged with Simple Robbery, Simple Battery, and Attempted Carjacking.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Chief Francois would like to emphasize the department’s commitment to seeking justice, no matter how much time has passed. The Amite City Police Department expresses its gratitude to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for their support in this case.

Today's Message from ADAPT

May is Mental Health Awareness Month 💚

It’s a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health. Whether you’re thriving, struggling, or somewhere in between—your feelings are valid, and you’re not alone.

Take time this month to check in with yourself and others. Reach out, start conversations, and don’t be afraid to ask for help. Small steps—like getting outside, talking to a friend, or taking a break—can make a big difference.

Let’s continue to break the stigma and support one another, not just this month, but every day. 💚

Learn more and "Like" ADAPT's Facebook page and visit their website.

ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are 

1. To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
2. To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
3. To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

Click here for previous and important messages from ADAPT

Hammond Area Burglary Suspects Sought

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help identifying and locating several suspects accused of breaking into numerous vehicles. In the overnight hours of Sunday and Monday (April 26 and 27, 2026), several individuals traveled throughout the Covington Ridge Drive area in Hammond, pulling on vehicle door handles and stealing items from unlocked cars.

Video surveillance from the neighborhood shows the suspects were traveling in a light-colored, four-door sedan as they moved through the area.

Residents along Covington Ridge Road are asked to check their vehicles for any missing items and to file a report if any are discovered stolen. In addition, TPSO detectives are asking anyone with additional video footage in the area to please share those materials.

And anyone with information about who these suspects are, and/or their whereabouts, can contact the TPSO Criminal Investigations Division at 985-902-2088. If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through CrimeStoppers 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! 

You may be eligible for a cash reward.

Jordan's Way Coming to the WP Animal Shelter May 14th

Jordan's Way is going LIVE with our Washington Parish Animal Shelter for a 3-hour fundraiser Thursday, May 14th from  10AM–1PM. Kelsey and her team invites all for a fun, high-energy morning raising funds for animals in need. 

The event needs volunteers to help to make this event a success! If you have any questions or to confirm you are coming, message or call 985-205-2023. Go to the Washington Parish Animal Shelter Facebook page for the latest!

A recent press release gives you more information about Jordan, Jordan's Way, it's founder, and what the events are all about. Click Read More below to read all about it.

One Arrested in Fatal Hammond Drive-by Shooting

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has made one arrest, but is still seeking information on additional suspects, in the case of a February interstate drive-by shooting that killed a teenager.

On Thursday (April 30, 2026), 19-year-old DeAlvin Davis was charged with one count of Accessory to 2nd Degree Murder. Davis was already in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail awaiting trial on unrelated charges.

Around 2 a.m. on Sunday (February 22, 2026), TPSO received reports of shots fired on the I-55 northbound entrance ramp at University Avenue. Deputies arrived to find two vehicles pulled over on the on-ramp with one of the drivers, 18-year-old Ravell Javion Steptoe, dead from a gunshot wound. Two other occupants from the vehicles were unharmed. Deputies learned the two vehicles, a black Kia sedan driven by the victim, and a newer model blue Ford Mustang driven by the victim’s relative, had pulled over to exchange an item. While pulled over, a third vehicle drove past, firing at the cars, fatally striking Steptoe.

While this arrest has been made, TPSO detectives are still actively working this case to identify and arrest additional suspects.

Anyone with information related to this incident, no matter how minor it may seem, is strongly encouraged to share that information with Detective Webb at 985-748-3332. 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!

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 30, 2026

Timothy Tullos (age 40) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II (2 counts) and Pedestrian on Highway/Interstate by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Anthony Ruppel (age 42) was booked on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Joseph Paillot (age 50) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule III CDS, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Slidell Police Department.

Darren Rohrbacker (age 63) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule III CDS, Drug Paraphernalia, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, No Safety Belts, and Simple Burglary by the Slidell Police Department.

Farrel Dupuy (age 49) was booked on the charges of Driving Under Suspension, Criminal Sanctions for Operating Motor Vehicle Not Covered, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule III CDS, Drug Paraphernalia, Issuing Worthless Checks, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear (3 counts) by the Slidell Police Department.

William Arnold (age 60) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by Agency not listed.

Jamad Magee (age 43) was booked on the charge of Battery on ER Personnel, EMS or Healthcare Personnel by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Carol Rongstad (age 81) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Amanda Martinell (age 35) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Chas Richards (age 34) was booked on the charges of DWI (4th / Subsequent Offense) and Driving Left of Center by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Patrick Womack (age 35) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Contempt of Court by the Slidell Police Department.

Darrell Spell (age 64) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Murder and Aggravated Rape by the Louisiana State Police.

Carl Butler (age 28) was booked on the charges of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon and Driving Left of Center by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Ricky Sullivan (age 40) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Drug Paraphernalia, Violations of Registration Provisions, Resisting an Officer, and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles/Display of Plate by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Hareez Ali (age 34) was booked on the charges of Possession of Kratom (2 counts), Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, and Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Deven McKee (age 28) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.

Alanna Berthelot (age 22) was booked on the charges of Battery of a Police Officer, Resisting an Officer by Violence/Resistance/Opposition, and Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence by the Covington 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   Mostly cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 71. North wind 10 to 15 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 47. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 76. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 50. Calm wind.

Monday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 78. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Monday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 54. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 28-30, 2026

Jessica Landrum (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Accessory After the Fact by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond information available.

Sissy Steimle (age 47 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Conspiracy to Possess Narcotics With Intent by the Louisiana State Police. No bond information available.

Thomas Patterson (age 49 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Driving Under Suspension, No Proof of Insurance, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond information is incomplete at this time.

Skylar Phillips (age 32) 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***

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.  High near 65. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Tonight   A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 51. Northeast wind 10 to 15 mph. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.

Saturday   A 30 percent chance of showers before 7am. Mostly cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 70. North wind 10 to 15 mph.

Saturday Night   Clear, with a low around 45. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 76. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 49. Calm wind.

Obituary

Destiny Marie Matran

October 17, 2009 - April 27, 2026

Obituary

Nathan M. Firmin

October 19, 1932 — April 27, 2026

Obituary

Melany Antoinette Smith Johnson

March 16, 1955 — April 21, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 29, 2026

Christopher Labit (age 39) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Battery of a Police Officer, Simple Assault, Gross Littering Prohibited, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Threatening a Public Official by the Covington Police Department.

Jamon Mingo (age 33) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office. 

Marissa Jenkins (age 41) was booked on the charges of Illegal Possession of Stolen Things 1000 to Less Than ... and Driving Under Suspension by the Covington Police Department.

Erick Miller (age 32) was booked on the charges of Theft 1000-5000, Possession of Schedule II (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III, Possession of Schedule IV (2 counts), Illegal Carrying of Weapon During Crime of Violence or While ..., Possession of Kratom, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription or Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Raheem Harris (age 26) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Joseph Taranto (age 24) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 and Illegal Carrying of Weapon During Crime of Violence or While ... by the Slidell Police Department.

Tyree Allen (age 21) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Battery and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.

Trinh Phung (age 57) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Criminal Trespass by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Eric Walder (age 47) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II (3 counts), Improper Turn, Illegal Window Tint, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

William Holley (age 36) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Dennis Chatman (age 44) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Agency Not Listed.

Bobby Dorsey (age 60) was booked on the charges of Bank Fraud, Illegal Possession of Stolen Things Less Than 1000, and Theft Less Than 1000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Michael Bishop (age 35) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Quinnita Young (age 37) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Derrick Pichon (age 53) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Flight from Officer, and Improper Lane Usage by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Barbara Taylor (age 51) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace, Obscenity, Simple Criminal Damage Less Than 1000, Criminal Mischief, Resisting an Officer, Simple Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce, and Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Rebecca Arnold (age 62) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Mandeville Police Department.

David Silberman (age 58) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jessica Roberts (age 54) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty**

Spring Squirrel Hunting Season Opens May 2nd

The Louisiana spring squirrel hunting season begins Saturday (May 2) and runs through May 24, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced. Squirrel hunting is the perfect gateway for hunting and a great introduction for youth into the sport.

A basic hunting license is all that is needed to hunt squirrels and those 17 and under are not required to have a youth license to hunt squirrels. Squirrel hunting is relatively inexpensive and there are many LDWF public lands on which hunting opportunity is available. Louisiana has two species of squirrels; gray and fox squirrels.

The bag limit is three per day during the spring with a possession limit of nine.

Spring squirrel season is closed on the Kisatchie National Forest, some national wildlife refuges, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property and some state WMAs. For a complete list of WMAs and public lands open to squirrel hunting and more information on WMA squirrel hunting, see the 2025-26 LDWF Hunting regulations.

To purchase a hunting license, see the LDWF license webpage.

All visitors to LDWF WMAs must have either a WMA Access Permit, Senior Hunting/Fishing License, Louisiana Sportsman’s Paradise License or Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License. See the LDWF WMA Access Permit webpage for more information.

For more information on squirrel hunting in Louisiana, see the LDWF Small Game webpage or contact LDWF Small Game/Wild Turkey Program Manager Cody Cedotal at ccedotal@wlf.la.gov.

Safe Haven Baby Box Coming to Franklinton

The Town of Franklinton is on the way to having the 3rd Baby Box in Louisiana!! 🙌🏻❤️ 

If you are interested in donating to the install of the Baby Box, scan the QR code in the picture or Click Here.  All donations go directly to the Franklinton Fire Department to help install the Baby Box!!  

Safe Haven Baby Boxes offer a compassionate and secure option for mothers in crisis who are unable to care for their newborns. Designed with innovative safety features and installed on the exterior walls of fire stations and hospitals, each box ensures the safe and anonymous surrender of infants. The exterior door locks automatically when a newborn is placed inside, and an interior door allows medical personnel to promptly and securely retrieve the baby, ensuring immediate care and protection. Safe Haven Baby Boxes are a vital resource, providing a lifeline for mothers and a safe beginning for their newborns.

Click here to learn more about Safe Haven Baby Boxes

Guide to Constitutional Amendments on May 16th Ballot

Suspect Sought in Fluker Scrap Yard Burglary

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help identifying and locating a suspect accused of breaking into the  Highway 51 Scrap Metal business located in the 65000 block of U.S. 51 in the Fluker area

In the overnight hours of Monday (April 27, 2026), surveillance video shows a man stealing a gun and money. He is also seen taking pictures of business files. The suspect is wearing a hooded pullover. The individual is seen driving northbound on Highway 51 from the property in a 2007 silver Chevy Tahoe with Louisiana license plate 113 KAJ.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who this suspect is, and/or their whereabouts, to contact our Criminal Investigations Division at 985-748-3332. 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!  You may be eligible for a cash reward.

Pearl River Man Gets Life Sentence for Stabbing

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on April 29, 2026, Joshua Michael Delaughter, age 32 and of Pearl River, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The mandatory life sentence was handed down by the Honorable Richard A. Swartz following Delaughter's adjudication as a multiple felony offender, as his prior criminal history involved violent crimes. The sentencing follows a January 2026 jury conviction of Attempted Second Degree Murder. 

Click here for two previous related stories

The charges stemmed from a violent incident on August 13, 2023, at North Beach on Carr Drive in Slidell, Louisiana. The victim was stabbed eight times in the head, neck, and torso after a minor verbal dispute regarding a near-vehicular collision. Evidence presented at trial showed that the victim had merely tapped on Delaughter’s vehicle to alert him of a potential accident before Delaughter exited his car and initiated the life-threatening attack.

Under Louisiana’s Habitual Offender Statute, the state established Delaughter’s status as a triple offender, which necessitated the mandatory life sentence.

DA Sims praised the finality of the sentence, emphasizing the office's stance on recidivism and violent crime. “Today’s sentence ensures that a dangerous, repeat offender will never again have the opportunity to victimize our community,” DA Sims said. “The victim in this case nearly lost his life over a trivial parking lot disagreement. This type of senseless violence, especially from someone with a documented history of felony behavior, warrants the maximum penalty allowed by law. We remain steadfast in our mission to hold violent criminals fully accountable.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Christina Fisher and Shelby Stoop. At trial, ADA Fisher successfully argued that the sheer number and location of the stab wounds - eight in total—demonstrated a clear intent to kill that far exceeded any claim of self-defense. 

Delaughter was remanded to the custody of the Louisiana Department of Corrections to begin serving his life term immediately.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 9am and then after 5pm. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Northeast wind around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Northeast wind around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Friday   A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 10am. Patchy fog after 9am. High near 65. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Friday Night   A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Patchy fog before midnight. Low around 52. Northeast wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. 

Saturday   A 20 percent chance of showers before 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 69. North wind 10 to 15 mph.

Saturday Night   Clear, with a low around 45. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light after midnight.

Supreme Court: La.'s Map Creating a Second Majority-Black District is Unconstitutional.

The United States Supreme Court has issued a historic decision related to the Voting Rights Act and sided with Attorney General Murrill's Office in Louisiana v. Callais. A 6-3 court ruled that Louisiana's map creating a second majority-Black district, which federal courts forced Louisiana to draw, is unconstitutional. 

"We win in Louisiana v. Callais! The Supreme Court has ended Louisiana’s long-running nightmare of federal courts coercing the state to draw a racially discriminatory map. That was always unconstitutional—and this is a seismic decision reaffirming equal protection under our nation’s laws. I vigorously defended our first map and said then that the only way to draw a second majority-minority district was to expressly take race into account. We raised our objections at that time to racial gerrymandering, but the district court and the Fifth Circuit directed us to draw the map anyway. It is gratifying that the Supreme Court has finally vindicated our original position and, in doing so, clarified that only under very narrow circumstances—where there is proof of intentional discrimination—may race be used as a remedy under Section 2. It is frustrating that this has taken five years, millions of dollars, and many lost hours to get here. I will continue to work with the Governor and the Legislature to provide guidance as we move forward to adopt a constitutionally compliant map," said Attorney General Murrill.

Read the 92-page opinion here

Madisonville-Area Man Arrested Following Road Rage Incident

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reports that a Madisonville-area man, 29-year-old Matthew Swire, was arrested Tuesday (April 28, 2026) afternoon following a road rage incident on U.S. Highway 190 near the Interstate 12 westbound ramp.

Swire was traveling southbound on Highway 190 shortly before 5 p.m. when he intentionally rammed another vehicle. After striking the victim’s vehicle, Swire exited his vehicle, approached the victim, and attempted to gain entry by pulling on the door handles. During the encounter, he also uttered racial slurs and repeatedly struck the victim’s vehicle, causing additional damage.

When deputies arrived on scene, Swire resisted arrest by kicking a deputy and intentionally grabbing the deputy’s genitalia.

Swire was taken into custody and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center on the charges of Criminal Damage (Misdemeanor) - 2 counts, Simple Assault (Misdemeanor), Reckless Operation of a Vehicle (Misdemeanor), Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence (Felony), Sexual Battery (Felony), Battery of a Police Officer (Felony), Aggravated Battery (Felony), Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property (Felony), Hate Crimes (Felony), No Insurance, and No Seatbelt.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty**

“Violence and hate-fueled behavior have no place in our community,” said Sheriff Randy Smith. “I commend our deputies for their swift response and professionalism in safely taking this individual into custody. We will continue to hold those who engage in this type of reckless and aggressive behavior fully accountable.”

Bogalusa Man Faces 40 Years to Life for Fentanyl Trafficking

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, a St. Tammany Parish jury found 48-year-old James Spikes, Jr., of Bogalusa, Louisiana, guilty of felony charges related to narcotics trafficking and illegal weapon possession. Following a trial before the Honorable Judge Scott Gardner, Spikes was convicted of Possession with Intent to distribute 28 grams or more but less than 250 grams of Fentanyl and carrying a Concealed Weapon (brass knuckles) by a Person Convicted of Certain Felonies.

The case originated from a proactive enforcement operation on August 18, 2024, along the Highway 36 corridor in Covington, Louisiana. Deputy Alexander Kitch of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Spikes. During the stop, deputies recovered brass knuckles and a pocketknife 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.

Click here for a previous related story

DA Sims praised the work of the trial team and law enforcement, stating, "Fentanyl is a poison that continues to threaten the safety of our families and our community. 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."

Assistant District Attorneys Gary Tromblay and Jay Adair prosecuted the case. 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.

During closing arguments, the prosecution emphasized the scale of the operation and the danger the defendant posed to the community. ADA Adair challenged the defense's characterization of the evidence, stating, "We're dealing with thousands of pills with a street value of thousands of dollars. It defies reason and common sense to accept ownership of something innocuous, like a speaker box, and deny something else right where he's sitting. He was in dominion and control of that vehicle."

ADA Adair further addressed the concealed weapons, asking the jury, "Are the brass knuckles a weapon? I would submit to you...The argument that he was carrying around a paperweight...that argument carries as much weight as paper itself."

ADA Tromblay highlighted the direct evidence linking Spikes to the narcotics, noting that undercover buy videos showed the defendant boasting about the "blues" (fentanyl pills) he sold. "The dope fairy didn't put that in the car...he put it in the car. The backpack was found directly behind the driver's seat," Tromblay stated. "Trial is a search for the truth - we're not here to deceive or trick you or make a fictitious story. Who carries a paperweight in their pocket? Especially when they're trafficking 963 fentanyl pills."

The case was investigated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Louisiana State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration.

Judge Scott Gardner has scheduled sentencing for May 5, 2026. As a multi-convicted felon, Spikes faces forty years to life in prison.