Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 15-16, 2026

Fantasia Magee (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $250.00.

Peter Nieto (age 59 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Switched License Plates, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Dane'Nycole Spears (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Resisting an Officer With Force/Simple Assault, Attempted Battery on Officer, Battery of Emergency Room Personnel, Failure to Provide Proper Info, Failure to Report Accident, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Resisting an Officer 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 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 87. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Monday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Covington-area Man Arrested for Murder of Brother

Frank Jenkins, age 50 and of the Covington-area man, was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office early Saturday (May 16, 2026) morning following a fatal shooting at a residence on Highway 1081.

Shortly after 1 a.m., the STPSO received a 911 call from a woman reporting that her uncle had shot her father. A second 911 call was also received from the suspected shooter. Deputies responded to the 20000 block of Highway 1081 near Covington, where they encountered Frank Jenkins. Jenkins told deputies he had shot his brother, 47-year-old William Jenkins, following an altercation.

Deputies located William Jenkins with what appeared to be a single gunshot wound. He was pronounced dead at the scene.

Frank Jenkins was taken into custody and transported to the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center, where he will be booked on one count of Second Degree Murder.

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

Both men lived on the property.

The body of the deceased has been turned over to the St. Tammany Parish Coroner's Office.

May 16, 2026 Election Results

Councilman -- District D, City of Bogalusa 

According to unofficial results from the Louisiana Secretary of State's office and with all precincts reporting, Chanda K. Hillman has won the election with 59% of the vote for Councilman -- District D, City of Bogalusa.  Tobias Roberts received 19% and Tiye L. Yayu received 22%.

Associate Justice -- Supreme Court, 1st District - Republican Party 

According to unofficial results from the Louisiana Secretary of State's office and with all precincts reporting, William "Billy" Burris has won the election with 58% of the vote for Associate Justice -- Supreme Court, 1st District - Republican Party. Blair Downing Edwards received 42%. 

PSC -- District 1 - Republican Party 

According to unofficial results from the Louisiana Secretary of State's office and with 97.20% of all precincts reporting, John Young with 31% and Stephanie Hilferty with 27% appears to be in a runoff. Wallace "Wayne" Cooper II received 10%, "Big John" Mason received 7%, and Mark Wright received 24%.

In the Statewide races and with 96% of precincts reporting at press time, 

U. S. Senator -- Republican Party 

Julia Letlow with 45% and John Fleming with 28% appears to be in a runoff. Incumbent “Bill” Cassidy received 24% and Mark Spencer received 2%. (The winner in the runoff will face the winner of the runoff for U. S. Senator -- Democratic Party in the fall.

U. S. Senator -- Democratic Party 

"Jamie" Davis with 48% appears to be in a runoff with Nicholas "Nick" Albares  or Gary Crockett who each received 26% of the vote. (The winner in the runoff will face the winner of the runoff for U. S. Senator -- Republican Party in the fall.

Constitutional Amendments

According to unofficial results from the Louisiana Secretary of State's office and with 93% of all precincts reporting at press time, all failed.

• CA No. 1 -- To authorize the addition or removal of positions in the unclassified state civil service by law. Failed with  22% - 78%.

• CA No. 2 -- To grant St. George community school system the authority to operate a school system. Failed with  37% - 63%.

• CA No. 3 -- To fund a teacher pay raise by paying down debt of the Teachers’ Retirement System of Louisiana  Failed with  42% - 58%.

• CA No. 4 -- To provide authority for a parish to classify and authorize exemptions relative to ad valorem taxes  Failed with  34% - 66%.

• CA No. 5 -- To change the mandatory retirement age of judges from 70 to 75 years of age  Failed with  24% - 76%.

If you are following other election results or want more detail, go to https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/graphical  and choose your parish.

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 15, 2026

Joseph Harvey (age 27) was booked on the charges of Improper Turn, Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Brook Wilks (age 27) was booked on the charges of Driving Under Suspension and Expired License Plate by the Mandeville Police Department.

Colleen Faciane (age 49) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Improper Lane Use, and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the Louisiana State Police.

Lakim Mitchell (age 21) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Drug Paraphernalia, and Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of Person Under by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Gynii Jackson (age 41) was booked on the charges of Obstruction of Court Orders, Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Being Forbidden, and Resisting an Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Donn Schillage (age 62) was booked on the charges of Identity Theft Over 1000 and Forgery by the Covington Police Department.

Jhameil Chambers (age 30) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile (2 counts), Indecent Behavior/Grooming of a Child (2 counts), Child Sexual Abuse Materials (2 counts), and Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor (2 counts) by the Covington Police Department.

Jimmy Voeltner (age 68) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.

David Schnauder (age 41) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.

Jason Wells (age 43) was booked on charge(s) not listed by the Slidell Police Department.

Nicholas Ortega (age 34) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

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

Alvin Thomas (age 23) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Robert Heath (age 48) was booked on the charges of Fugitive (2 counts) by the Louisiana State Police.

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

Dirt Bike Rider Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash

Shortly after 3:00 p.m. on May 15, 2026, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash involving an off-road motorcycle on U.S. Highway 190 east of LA Highway 1077 in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 26-year-old Muhammad Connor of Snellville, Georgia.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Connor was riding a 2007 KTM off-road motorcycle east on the shoulder of U.S. Highway 190. At the same time, a 2006 Toyota Tacoma was traveling east on U.S. Highway 190 and was attempting to turn right into a private drive. For reasons still under investigation, the off-road motorcycle struck the right side of the Toyota as it entered the driveway. 

Connor was not wearing a helmet, sustained fatal injuries, and was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the Tacoma was properly restrained and was uninjured. Impairment is unknown; however, routine toxicology samples will be obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Louisiana State Police reminds all motorists and motorcyclists to make safe decisions while on the roadway. Motorcyclists should always wear DOT-approved helmets and avoid operating their vehicles unsafely. Louisiana law prohibits motorists from driving on or passing on the shoulder of a roadway. We encourage all riders to take an approved motorcycle safety course.

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 14, 2026

Chazity Magee (age 25) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kurt Faulk (age 44) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Olivia Jones (age 30) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Sierra Benton (age 20) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kelli Singleton (age 37) was booked on the charge of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by Bondsman.

Richie Wheat (age 43) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by Agency not listed.

Majid Dabit (age 30) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.

Deshawn Hines (age 38) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Simple Criminal Damage to Property by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kendrick James (age 40) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jennifer Laurent (age 45) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule III, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving Under Suspension, Improper Lane Use, and Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jonathan Hooge (age 47) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Lawney Broussard (age 33) was booked on the charges of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon (2 counts), Driving Under Suspension, Failure to Use Turn Signal, and No Proof of Insurance by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Gabriel Aysen (age 22) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile, Indecent Behavior/Grooming of a Child, and Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor by the Covington Police Department.

Milena Jenkins (age 22) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22n Judicial Court.

Danny Tobias (age 39) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the Pearl River Police Department.

Joseph Dibenedetto (age 69) was booked on charge(s) not listed by the Covington Police Department.

Mitchell Cochran (age 37) was booked on the charges of DWI, Improper Lane Use, No Registration, and Driver Must be Licensed by the Causeway Bridge Police.

Michael Gresko (age 55) was booked on the charge of Failure to Return Leased Movables by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

James Pike (age 41) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Ashley Hall (age 40) was booked on the charges of Sexual Abuse of an Animal (2 counts) by the 22nd Judicial Court.

***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, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 85. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Sunday   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2pm. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1pm. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 87. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. 

Monday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

BOLO: Missing Woman from Hammond

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s assistance locating a woman who walked away from a local rescue and recovery center and could be in distress.

Tuesday (May 12, 2026), 30-year-old Nicole Middleton from Slidell left the LynHaven Retreat property on Old Covington Highway on foot. She is not believed to have any identification or personal belongings, like a cellphone, with her.  

Nicole has brown eyes and brown hair and does receive treatment for a mental illness. She was last seen wearing a grey shirt and blue jeans with sandals.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker asks anyone with information regarding Nicole’s whereabouts to contact our Investigations Division at 985-771-1161. 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.

Arrests & Seizures in Tangipahoa Parish Joint Operation

May 15, 2026, City of Hammond, LA – On May 8, 2026, the Hammond Police Department Narcotics
Division, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office Narcotics Division, and the Louisiana Division of Probation and Parole conducted a joint operation. During this operation, SWAT teams from each department executed multiple search warrants along Booker Road II in Hammond and Robertson Road in Tickfaw. 

During these search warrants the
following was seized:

• Approximately 121 grams of suspected cocaine (powder)
• Approximately 23.5 grams of suspected crack cocaine
• Approximately 13 grams of suspected heroin
• Approximately 66 grams of suspected fentanyl
• Approximately 20 ounces of suspected kratom (powder)-
• Multiple pills
• 2 suboxone films
• Small amount marijuana
• Several firearms (one reported stolen)
• Multiple items of drug paraphernalia 
• $39,355 US Currency

Arrested were

• Alex "Big Al" Rogers, 46 years old of Hammond, on the charges of Possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Possession of crack cocaine, Possession of suboxone films, Possession of a firearm in the presence of a CDS, 3 counts of convicted felon in possession of a firearm, Possession of drug paraphernalia, and Illegal possession of a stolen firearm (pending)

• Jessie "Pookie" Osby, 31 years old of Tickfaw, on the charges of Possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, Possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Possession with intent to distribute Oxycodone Hydrochloride, Possession with intent to distribute Xanax, Possession of a firearm in the presence of a CDS, Convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and Possession of drug paraphernalia 

Jerome Rogers, 42 years old of Hammond, is wanted by TPSO on the charges of Possession with intent to distribute cocaine, Possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, Possession with intent to distribute heroin, Possession with intent to distribute kratom and Violation of parole.

This operation owes its success to multiple agencies working together. The agencies took multiple drugs and firearms off the street—potentially saving many lives—and arrested multiple suspects who have lengthy histories with illegal narcotics. There will be more joint operations in the future. 

If you have information on someone possessing and/or selling these illegal narcotics, firearms, or devices, please contact the Hammond Police Department Narcotics Division at 985-277-5700.  

**All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.**

Slidell Motorcyclist Killed in Crash

On May 14, 2026, at 11:30 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single-vehicle crash on US Highway 11 near North Lakeview Drive in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 21-year-old Gavin B. Dietrich of Slidell.

The preliminary investigation revealed that the crash occurred at approximately 3:00 a.m., though it was not reported until later in the day. Dietrich was driving a 2025 Kawasaki Ninja ZX 10R south on US Highway 11 near North Lakeview Drive at a high rate of speed while approaching a right-hand curve. For reasons still under investigation, Dietrich failed to negotiate the curve and ran off the left side of the roadway into a gravel parking lot, and over an embankment. Dietrich was ejected from the motorcycle and struck the coastal shoreline riprap.

Dietrich, whose helmet use is unknown at this time, sustained serious injuries and died on the scene. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was obtained for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted; follow all traffic laws, and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. Additionally, when riding motorcycles, utilizing proper safety equipment, such as DOT-approved helmets, can decrease the chances of traumatic brain injury. We encourage all riders to take an approved motorcycle safety course. Motorcycle riders can gain more information on helmet guidelines and rider safety courses by visiting https://www.lsp.org/services/training/motorcycle-safety/.

Obituary

Linda Sue Ezelle Billiot 

February 27, 1940 – May 13, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 13, 2026

Gudiel Rojas (age 20) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Flight From Officer, Open Container in Vehicle, and Driver Must Be Licensed by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Clifford Nicholas (age 50) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Charles Vicks (age 34) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution Schedule I CDS (3 counts), Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II

CDS, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, Possession of Schedule I, Expired License Plate, and False MVI by the Slidell Police Department.

Corey Eagleton (age 48) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Parole Violation by the Slidell Police Department.

Bert Jennings, Jr. (age 41) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation, Parole Violation, and Violation of Protection Order by Probation and Parole.

Ceasar Canales-Galiano (age 35) was booked on the charges of DWI, Failure to Stop/Yield, and Driver Must be Licensed by the Louisiana State Police.

Virgil Crain (age 50) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Theft 1000-5000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Thomas Watson (age 31) was booked on the charge of Telephone Communications/Improper Language/Harassment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Andrea Washington (age 31) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Louisiana State Police.

Brandon Yent (age 28) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.

Kendrick Quinn (age 28) was booked on the charges of Battery of a Police Officer, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, and Simple Criminal Damage to Property by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Daimon Bush (age 43) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.

Usheeka Quinn (age 47) was booked on the charge of Theft by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Gary Diamond (age 47) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Contempt of Court by Probation and Parole.

Donnovan Thomas (age 55) was booked on the charges of Theft, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, and Taking Contraband to and from a Penal Institution by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

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

Larry Hales (age 63) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by Bondsman.

Megan Waller (age 35) was booked on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000 by the Mandeville Police Department.

Luke Harrell (age 22) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

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

Craig Thomas (age 24) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule I by the Mandeville Police Department.

Enrique Ceron (age 47) was booked on the charges of Accessory After the Fact and Unlawful Entry or Reentry Into the State of Louisiana by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Spencer Westerfield (age 39) was booked on the charges of Fugitive (2 counts) by the Slidell Police Department.

Dale Saurers (age 79) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling by the Slidell Police Department.

Spencer Walker (age 44) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile, Indecent Behavior/Grooming of a Child, Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Child Sexual Abuse Materials, and Unlawful Use of Social Networking Website by the Covington Police Department.

Andrew Thibodeaux (age 35) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile, Indecent Behavior/Grooming of a Child, Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, and Child Sexual Abuse Materials by the Covington Police Department.

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

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 13-14, 2026

Tyrese Cotton (age 27 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic
Abuse/Aggravated Assault, Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Alton Fields (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $20000.00.

Angelo Exkano (age 24 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Expired license Plate, Driving Under Suspension, Expired MVI, No Proof of Insurance, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Raymond Sumrall (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Allen Magee (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Larry Newkirk (age 37 with Sulfer, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Jake Mills (age 28 with 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.

Aaron Simmons (age 33 with Tn. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Driving While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Resisting an Officer, and Obstruction of a Court Order by the Washingon Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Obituary

Andrew “Andy” Wilson Hunt, III

May 11, 2026

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Working with Wet Areas on Your Land

Last week’s rains – about 5 inches in two days at my house – provided a good chance to observe where water accumulates in our yards, on our fields, and in our woods.

There are ways to improve drainage in some places. Sometimes it may be as simple as cleaning out a ditch so that water has a place to go. Grading and French drains are options in some situations.

In a lot of cases, though, it’s more practical to just work with the conditions you have. This goes along with the “right plant, right place” principle, or matching the plant to the site.

While some plants cannot tolerate even short periods of standing water or saturated soil, there are quite a few plants suited to wet areas.

Some herbaceous (non-woody) plants for wet areas include carpetgrass (Axonopus fissifolius), Virginia blue flag iris (Iris virginica), Louisiana irises (giant blue iris [I. giganticaerulea], zigzag iris [I. brevicaulis], dixie iris [I. hexagona], copper iris [I. fulva], Abbeville iris [Iris x nelsonii], and hybrids of these), southern swamp lily (Crinum americanum), swamp spider lily (Hymenocallis liriosme), Texas star hibiscus or scarlet rose-mallow (Hibiscus coccineus), crimsoneyed rosemallow or swamp rose-mallow (Hibiscus moscheutos), common or soft rush (Juncus effusus), and needlegrass rush or black needlerush (J. roemerianus).

Some trees and shrubs for wet areas include bald cypress (Taxodium distichum), pond cypress (T. ascendens or T. distichum var. imbricarium), nuttall oak (Quercus texana, formerly Q. nuttallii), water oak (Q. nigra), black gum or tupelo (Nyssa sylvatica), swamp tupelo (N. biflora), water tupelo (N. aquatica), Drummond or swamp red maple (Acer rubrum var. drummondii), river birch (Betula nigra), parsley hawthorn (Crataegus marshallii), mayhaws (Crataegus opaca and other Crataegus species), common persimmon (Diospyros virginiana), sweet bay magnolia (Magnolia virginiana), wax myrtle (Myrica cerifera or Morella cerifera), titi (Cyrilla racemiflora), Florida anise (Illicium floridanum), American holly (Ilex opaca), dahoon holly (I. cassine), possumhaw (I. decidua), winterberry holly (I. verticillata), buttonbush (Cephalanthus occidentalis), and Virginia willow or sweetspire (Itea virginica).

The plants I mention here are just some examples. One way to get an idea of whether a plant is suited to wet areas is to check a resource such as the US Department of Agriculture Plants database (https://plants.usda.gov/), the US Geological Survey Plants of Louisiana website (https://warcapps.usgs.gov/PlantID/), or the LSU’s Louisiana Plant Identification and Interactive Ecosystem Virtual Tours site (http://www.rnr.lsu.edu/plantid/) and look at the wetland status of the plant. Plants rated as OBL, or obligate wetland plants, are almost always found in wetlands. Those rated as FACW, or facultative wetland plants, are usually found in wetlands, and those rated as FAC, or facultative plants, are found in both wetlands and non-wetlands. Those least likely to be suited to wet areas are the UPL, or upland, plants which are rarely found in wetlands.

Be sure to also take other factors, like the expected mature size of the plant and how much sun or shade it needs, when making plant choices.

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).

Obituary

Odell "Jake" Weary

November 24, 1947 — May 1, 2026

Suspects Sought in Hammond Church Building Theft (Over $100,000)

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help identifying and locating the suspects accused of a large-scale theft from a vacant church property resulting in more than $100,000 worth of repairs.

Earlier this week, it was discovered that copper tubing as well as condensers and parts from multiple A/C units were missing from the property of the former Harvest Church building located in the 17000 block of north I-12 Service Road in Hammond. The repairs for the damage and replacement of the parts currently exceeds $100,000.

It has been determined that the theft occurred last month when at least two individuals came onto the property around 9 p.m. on April 25, 2026. Surveillance video shows one suspect wearing what appears to be a light shirt with a design on the front, jeans and light tennis shoes. The second suspect appears to be wearing a light shirt with a horizontal striped design on the front and back as well as jeans with dark shoes. Both appear to have dark hair and stand between 5’8” and 5’11”.

While the duo is only seen on foot, it is believed a vehicle resembling the attached image could be involved. It appears to be a light gold or pewter Nissan sedan.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who these suspects are, or their whereabouts, to contact the TPSO Criminal Investigations Division at 985-902-2088. If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

Obituary

Dorothy Kennedy Woodard

June 28, 1935 - May 14, 2026

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 86. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the morning.

Tonight   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Saturday   Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 84. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Saturday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 64. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Sunday   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Bogalusa Police Investigating Two Related Shootings

Shooting #1: On Sunday (May 10, 2026), at approximately 10:02 p.m., officers with the Bogalusa Police Department responded to the Redmond Heights apartment complex in reference to reports of shots fired and located a male subject suffering from a gunshot wound to the lower extremities. Officers immediately rendered aid before turning the victim over to emergency medical services. The victim, identified as 20-year-old Treamauryon Short of Bogalusa, was transported to a local hospital for further treatment.

Officers determined that several individuals were inside an apartment when an unwanted subject allegedly entered through a window. A disturbance ensued, resulting in multiple shots being fired, one of which struck Short. Most of the individuals who had been at the apartment left the scene prior to officers’ arrival. Officers interviewed potential witnesses, including the victim, but those interviewed denied having knowledge of the incident or the individuals involved.

Shooting #2. While officers were processing the scene at Redmond Heights, additional gunshots were heard a few blocks away near the Oakhill apartment complex. Officers responded and located numerous shell casings; however, no victims or suspects were found on scene. A review of surveillance footage from the Oakhill area showed an individual approaching a group of people on foot and opening fire before all subjects fled the area. Investigators have not yet been able to identify those involved.

At this time, investigators believe the two incidents may be connected. Both investigations remain active and ongoing.

The Bogalusa Police Department is asking anyone with information regarding either shooting to come forward. Information can be provided anonymously.

Obituary

Cameron James Spears

January 28, 2009 - May 12, 2026

Roseland Catfish Festival is May 16th

Obituary

Hilda Diane Strickland Buckley

May 16, 1946 - May 13, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for May 12, 2026

Timothy Efferson (age 40) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Failure to Register Vehicle by the Covington Police Department.

Amanda Haskins (age 40) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule I CDS (12 Counts), Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule (2 Counts), Possession of Schedule II, Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule IV CDS (4 Counts), Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, Handling of Machine Guns, Possession Sale or Use of Certain Firearms Prohibited,  Transactions

Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Trung Ly (age 34) was booked on the charges of DWI, Following Too Close, Battery of a Dating Partner, and Criminal Mischief by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Joshua Schwandt (age 22) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Tamara Hebert (age 44) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Christian Morales (age 58) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Use and Driver Must Be Licensed by the Pearl River Police Department.

Trevine Carey (age 22) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) and Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Jenry Bueso (age 29) was booked on the charge of Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the Pearl River Police Department.

Dustin Galland (age 40) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule I CDS (12 counts), Possession of Schedule II, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS (2 counts), Manufacture/Distribution Schedule IV CDS (4 counts), Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, Handling of Machine Guns, Possession Sale or Use of Certain Fireworks Prohibited, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

George McCoy (age 29) was booked on the charges of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Schedule II by the Slidell Police Department.

Tylan Eugene (age 23) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.

Caleb Speaks (age 22) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of Persons Under, Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, and Possession of Schedule I by the Slidell Police Department.

Michael Chappetta (age 43) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule II CDS, Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule I CDS (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Slidell Police Department.

Angela Pellegrin (age 61) was booked on the charges of Theft and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.

Cedric Jamison (age 65) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole.

Victoria Hunter (age 21) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Robbery and Theft Less Than 1000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Dexter Taplin (age 51) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by Bondsman.

Chad Winslow (age 44) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Toss Fridenbergs (age 33) was booked on the charge of Stalking by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

John Ernst (age 69) was booked on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Covington Police Department.

Loy Olivier (age 71) was booked on the charge of Hit and Run by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

***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   Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 84. North wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 60. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 86. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 62. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Saturday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Saturday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 63. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light southeast in the evening.

Major Multi-State Drug Trafficking Network Dismantled: Five Indicted After $3.2 Million Seizure

District Attorney Collin Sims announces that a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury returned true bills today (May 13, 2026), indicting five individuals in connection with an extensive narcotics distribution network that funneled kilogram quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine from Mexico into the Northshore and Greater New Orleans areas. The following individuals were indicted:

Ernesto Alonso Ruiz, age 47 and of San Juan, TX

• Conspiracy to Distribute 28 Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 60 Kilograms)
• Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses

Michael Anthony Gibson, age 37 and of New Orleans, LA

• Conspiracy to Distribute 28 Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 60 Kilograms)
• Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses

Miguel Angel Olquin, age 31 and of Penitas, TX

• Conspiracy to Distribute 28 Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 60 Kilograms)
• Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses

Lindsey J. Daniels, age 53 and of Franklinton, LA

• Conspiracy to Distribute 28 Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance
• Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine (Over 3 Kilograms)

Christopher L. Fendley, age 51 and of Franklinton, LA

• Conspiracy to Distribute 28 Grams or More of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance

All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law

The indictment follows a comprehensive investigation into a conspiracy active between October 2025 and May 2026. Prosecutors allege the defendants conspired to distribute more than 79 kilograms of Schedule II controlled dangerous substances.

The investigation reached a turning point on May 3, 2026, when authorities seized 68 kilograms of cocaine from a tractor-trailer, which was carrying a full load of produce, at a Slidell truck stop. An additional eight kilograms of cocaine were seized from a "stash house" in New Orleans, alongside more than $450,000 in cash. The street value of the narcotics seized on that day alone is estimated at approximately $3,200,000.

According to investigators, the organization brought drugs into Louisiana from Mexico via Texas. The narcotics were delivered to middlemen in Orleans, Washington, and St. Tammany Parishes before being distributed to local dealers for sale in the community.

The case was investigated by the Louisiana State Police, with significant support from the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Chief of Criminal Division Doug Freese and Special Prosecutor Tiffany Dover are prosecuting this case for the District Attorney’s Office.

Following these indictments, the defendants will be scheduled for formal arraignment in the 22nd Judicial District Court.

As this is a pending and ongoing criminal matter, the Office of the District Attorney for the 22nd Judicial District will have no further comment at this time. An indictment is an accusation. 

Cold Case Indictments of Four Men for 1982 Rape and Murder of Roxanne Sharp

District Attorney Collin Sims announces that a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury returned true bills today (May 13, 2026), indicting four men for the 1982 rape and murder of 16-year-old Roxanne Sharp. The indictments are the result of an intensive investigation by the District Attorney’s Cold Case Unit.

Click here for a previous related story

The following individuals have been indicted for Second Degree Murder and Aggravated Rape:

• Billy L. Williams, Jr., 62, of Covington, LA
• Darrell Dean Spell, 64, of Covington, LA
• Carlos W. Cooper, 64, currently incarcerated at Louisiana State Penitentiary
• Perry W. Taylor, 64, currently incarcerated at Winn Correctional Center

An indictment is an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law

The charges stem from the brutal assault and death of Roxanne Sharp, which occurred between February 9 and February 12, 1982. For over four decades, the case remained unsolved until recent efforts by investigators and the District Attorney’s Cold Case Unit brought new life to the investigation. This marks the second cold case indictment secured by the unit this year.

The successful indictment was made possible through the collaborative work of the Louisiana State Police, with assistance from the Covington Police Department. Chief of Criminal Division Doug Freese and Assistant District Attorney Gary Tromblay presented the case to the grand jury and are handling the case for the District Attorney’s Office.

"Our Cold Case Unit is committed to seeking justice for victims and their families, no matter how much time has passed," District Attorney Collin Sims stated. "The indictment of these four individuals for the 1982 murder of Roxanne Sharp is a significant step toward that goal."

Following today’s indictments, the defendants will be scheduled for formal arraignment in the 22nd Judicial District Court.

As this is a pending and ongoing criminal matter, the Office of the District Attorney for the 22nd Judicial District will have no further comment at this time.

Slidell Woman Indicted for Theft of State Funds Over $25,000

District Attorney Collin Sims announces that a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury returned a true bill today (May 13, 2026), indicting 39-year-old Keyoka Motley of Slidell, on the charge of  Theft Valued at $25,000 or More.

The charge stems from activity occurring between August 1, 2022, and June 30, 2025. Motley is accused of misappropriation or taking of funds belonging to the State of Louisiana by deliberately understating income to receive SNAP benefits, with the intent to permanently deprive the state of property valued at $25,000 or more.

The Louisiana Department of Health, Fraud and Recovery Unit, investigated the case. Chief of Criminal Division Doug Freese presented the case to the grand jury for the District Attorney’s Office.

Following this indictment, Motley will be scheduled for a formal arraignment in the 22nd Judicial District Court, where she will enter a plea.

As this is a pending and ongoing criminal matter, the Office of the District Attorney for the 22nd Judicial District will have no further comment at this time.

An indictment is an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Indictments in Two St. Tammany Parish Sexual Assault Cases

District Attorney Collin Sims announces that a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury returned true bills today (May 13, 2026), indicting two individuals on multiple felony charges involving victims under the age of thirteen.

Vernon Lee Taylor, Jr., age 33 and of Mandeville, Louisiana, was indicted on the charges of 1 Count of First Degree Rape (Victim under age 13) and 1 Count of Sexual Battery (Victim under age 13). The charges stem from incidents alleged to have occurred between October 24, 2024, and May 31, 2025. Assistant District Attorney Ysonde Boland is the lead prosecutor on this case.

Carlos Oviedo, age 58 and of Covington, Louisiana, was indicted on the charges of 1 Count of First Degree Rape (Victim under age 13) and 1 Count of Molestation of a Juvenile (Victim under age 13). The charges stem from incidents alleged to have occurred between October 2019 and April 2025. Assistant District Attorney Zachary Popovich is the lead prosecutor on this case.

Both cases were investigated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Special Victims Unit.

Following these indictments, both Taylor and Oviedo will be scheduled for formal arraignments in the 22nd Judicial District Court, where they will enter their respective pleas.

As these are pending and ongoing criminal matters, the Office of the District Attorney for the 22nd Judicial District will have no further comment at this time.

An indictment is an accusation. All defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Road Closure on Superior Ave. in Bogalusa

Complete Road Closure beginning May 19, 2026 on LA 10 Eastbound and LA 10 Westbound, Washington Parish for Roadwork (Railroad Maintenance) / Railroad Track Repair.

• Start Date: Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 7:00 AM

• End Date: Friday, May 22, 2026 at 11:59 PM

The duration of this closure will be from Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 7:00 AM to Friday, May 22, 2026 at 12:00 midnight.

Detour: Motorists are advised to use alternate route. (see below)

Restrictions: Motorists and emergency vehicles will not have access to LA 10 (Superior Ave) eastbound and westbound near Austin St 

Today's Message From ADAPT

Don’t forget about the Peer Support meetings every Tuesday and Thursday at the Bogalusa Mission from 11-12.  💙

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

3 In Custody, 4 Wanted for Attempted Murder in Tangipahoa Parish

On April 12, 2026 at approximately 5:00 PM, Ponchatoula Police officers working security at Tasker Park (465 North First Street) requested additional units after hearing gunshots among the large crowd. Two individuals and several vehicles were struck by gunfire during the incident. Since that time, our detectives have worked tirelessly to identify all individuals responsible for the shooting and the disruption of that day's community events.

Chief Bry Layrisson is proud to announce that the work of the Ponchatoula Police Department’s Patrol and Investigations Divisions led to three subjects being taken into custody for Attempted Second-Degree Murder:

• Ricky Eskridge Jr. DOB: 11/15/1996
• Jaquan Woolridge DOB: 8/26/2005
• Tylen O. Edwards DOB: 3/17/2000

Four additional subjects are currently WANTED for two counts of Attempted Second-Degree Murder with nationwide extradition:

• Ramon P. Eskridge DOB: 09/17/2000
• David McDowell Jr. DOB: 1/16/2003
• Raymond McKay III DOB: 10/26/1998
• Steve A. Cole DOB: 12/14/1992

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

Several of these individuals have prior convictions for violent crimes in Louisiana and other states, and may be armed and dangerous. Anyone assisting them in avoiding arrest will be charged accordingly.

"This case has required numerous hours of investigative work, including the initial crime scene investigation, interviews, and search warrants. Our team obtained evidence linking these seven individuals to the altercation and subsequent shooting that endangered hundreds of innocent people at Tasker Park and disrupted our local festival several blocks away," said Chief Bry Layrisson.

"The remaining suspects will be taken into custody and transported to Tangipahoa Parish for prosecution from anywhere in the United States." 

The Ponchatoula Police Department would like to thank Louisiana Probation and Parole, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office, and the Hammond Police Department for their assistance during the investigation.

As the investigation continues, anyone with information or video footage around the time of the shooting should contact Ponchatoula Police Department Detective Jimmy McGovern or Detective Collin Lee at (985) 386-6548. 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 up to $5,000

May is Motorcycle Safety Awareness Month

As more motorcycles take to the roads in greater numbers, motorists should remain aware that motorcycles are less visible and more vulnerable on our roadways. Road safety is a shared responsibility. Every driver and passenger has an important role in preventing crashes and saving lives.

Motorists are reminded to:

• Ensure all occupants are properly restrained. 
• Share the road. Check twice before turning or changing lanes. Motorcycles can be easily overlooked, particularly in blind spots.
• Give motorcyclists extra space so they can react and maneuver safely. 

Motorcyclists are reminded to:

• Wear a DOT-approved helmet, eye protection, and essential high visibility protective clothing.  
• Remain vigilant, be mindful of roadway conditions, and anticipate any path-of-travel hazards. 
• Scan for other vehicles and always use your signals. 

Additionally, Troopers wish to remind all motorists to eliminate distractions while driving, obey the posted speed limit, and never drive while impaired. 

For motorcycle riders, enrolling in an approved safety course can significantly improve both riding skills and awareness on the road. To learn more about available motorcycle safety courses, click here

Obituary

Francis L. Mathenia

October 4, 1944 ~ May 4, 2026

Sheriff Smith Announces Unity Youth Summer Camp

Summer is right around the corner and Washington Parish Sheriff Jason Smith is kicking off registration for the Unity Youth Summer Camp. 

Children aged 7-14 are invited to participate in this 3-day camp. The camp will take place from June 16-18 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Pine High School. 

The cost is only $10, which includes bus transportation, breakfast, lunch, a camp T-shirt, and all activities. 

Attendees will participate in sports, social media awareness classes, games, team-building exercises, life skills classes, conflict resolution classes, STEM projects, music classes, dancing and stretching classes, and drug abuse prevention. 

Please fill out the form below, print it, and give it to the student’s teacher or drop it off at the Franklinton Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, along with payment. Also, see below for Bus Stops and Pickup Times.

You can also register your child online at https://www.wpso.la.gov/youth-camp. 

If you have any questions, please call 985-839-3434. 

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 12, 2026

Kendall Barber (age 62 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of 2nd Degree  Sexual Battery (2 counts), Oral Sexual Battery, 1st Degree Rape With Victim Under 13 Yrs. Old, Molestation of Juvenile/Rape (2 counts), Indecent Behavior With Juvenile (2 counts), and Crime Against Nature/Aggravated Incest (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Daimon Johnson (age 31 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Darren Weary (age 39 with Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Franklinton PD Shooting Range Sees Major Upgrades

Franklinton residents may not realize that tucked away behind locked fencing,  beyond the
softball complex on Boat Ramp Road is the Franklinton Police Department’s shooting range. Franklinton Police Chief Justin Brown says the first range was built on the site in the 1960’s, and in 2010, he spearheaded tearing down the old one and rebuilding it. However, in the past 16 years, natural erosion of the clay berm, weakened by thousands of rounds fired into it, and the need for up-to-date, innovative situational training scenarios has led the Fraternal Order of Police to begin improvements and renovations. Project leaders Lt. Jonathan Leche and Sgt Justin McFarland are excited about the potential of the range. 

A structure was recently added that serves as a restroom facility and storage area along with a septic system. This was done with funds from the Causeway Police who paid three to four years of estimated future usage fees amounting to around $13,000. The Causeway Police does not have a range, and the Franklinton facility has been used exclusively by that department. The range is also used by Probation and Parole. 

Washington St. Tammany Electric donated power poles that have been cut and placed at the base of the berm in order to shore it up and plans call for crushed asphalt added to make it even more substantial. There is also police unit and EMS lighting that can be used so that officers can train for situations when police and first responders are on a scene. The range also provides daytime and nighttime opportunities for officers to mimic real-life situations.

On Thursday, May 7, 2026, Mayor Darwin Sharp and Alderman Seth Descant were on hand at the range to accept a check from AmWaste for $4733.00 to continue improvements. Leche and McFarland are excited and enthusiastic about what these funds will purchase and are also pleased that tax-payer dollars are not being used for the project. 

Plans include adding a wrecked police vehicle no longer in service to allow for a variety of situations as well as installing more police lighting along with stadium-style lighting that will help prepare officers for no or low light to mimic nighttime conditions. This is being modeled after Slidell’s Regional Training facility so it will be cutting-edge. Working with other agencies creates a unified vision for firearm usage and is especially important to helping officers appropriately respond to a “routine” call as well as in the case of a mass shooting event. Along with the berm being upgraded and additional lighting, a rubber mat will be installed in the shooting area to provide shooter stability, and devices will be acquired to secure targets. 

Ultimately, the goal is to make the range more efficient and give police officers more involvement in the environment. Leche added that his hope is to bring in more agencies as some who have previously used the range and generated revenue for maintenance now have their own ranges available. He also stated, “Change is critical and AmWaste’s contribution has been phenomenal to help the department continue to grow and adapt in an ever-changing environment.”

Depending on weather conditions, Leche and McFarland hope to have projects completed by the end of May. While some concealed-carry instructors in the area may use the range for classes, it is closed to the public and is a law enforcement range only. 

Lauren Anthony, District Manager for AmWaste, is happy to have a community project outlet. “We are
excited to be a part of something that is bigger than just providing garbage service. We are able to pour back into a community we not only serve but live in.” 

It should be noted that the range is in an area near the Bogue Chitto River; however, it has only been inundated with water during major flood events such as 2016 when water reached far past the range towards Main Street. The configuration of the range and safety protocols in place ensure there is no impact to river traffic nor the recreational area nearby.

Alderman Seth Descant is excited about the possibilities. “I think this is a great project, and I love that we are developing an area for training where officers can practice and hone their skills instead of just writing a check and sending them off to other sites. I am also excited about other agencies coming here to train. There is so much potential.” Mayor Darwin Sharp spoke on behalf of the Town and the police department when he said, “We are very appreciative of this generous donation and town’s our partnership with AmWaste.”

On hand at the Franklinton Shooting Range are from left to right in the picture above - AmWaste employees Landry Richardson, Operations Manager; Laci Howes, Office Manager; Lauren Anthony, District Manager; and Mayor Darwin Sharp, Alderman Seth Descant, Lt. Jonathan Leche, and Sgt. Justin McFarland.

Louisiana Ranks 1st in Reading Growth, 2nd in Math

Louisiana is the only state to surpass pre-pandemic levels in both reading and math, according to a new report from Harvard, Stanford, and Dartmouth

Louisiana continues to lead the nation in academic improvement, according to the latest Education Scorecard released today by researchers from Harvard University, Stanford University, and Dartmouth College. The 2026 report shows Louisiana ranks first among states in reading growth and second among states in math. Louisiana is the only state where average student performance has surpassed 2019 levels in both reading and math.

“I’m proud of Louisiana students and grateful for the teachers who are driving these results,” said Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley. “These rankings are a point of pride for our state, but we are far from satisfied and will keep pushing for greater academic outcomes.”

“Today’s education scorecard results did not happen by accident. They happened because we changed the script in Louisiana. We returned our classrooms back to the basics, empowered teachers and families, and removed woke, DEI material from our curriculum,” said Governor Jeff Landry. “Louisiana is leading again, and this is only the beginning!”

Click here for the full press release on how Louisiana leads the Nation, again!

Obituary

James Kenith Douglas

March 11, 1939 - May 12, 2026

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Patchy fog before 10am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 83. Light northeast wind becoming north 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 60. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 84. North wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 59. Calm wind.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 84. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 61. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.