Former Tangipahoa Parish Special-Ed Teacher Arrested for Battery on a Student

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has arrested 61-year-old Laura Tallo, a former special education teacher for alleged
physical abuse of one of her students. Tallo was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on Monday, March 23, 2026 with Simple Battery to the Infirm.

In January, TPSO School Resource Officers (SROs) were informed by leadership at Loranger Elementary School about an incident involving Tallo and a 6-year-old special education student. During the investigation, multiple incidents of alleged physical abuse were documented against Tallo. Tallo was immediately removed from her position, and following additional investigative efforts by the TPSO Criminal Investigations Division, an arrest warrant was issued. Tallo no longer works for the Tangipahoa Parish School System (TPSS).

The TPSO wants to thank the TPSS for its cooperation and collaboration on this case and in all efforts centered on student safety.

Obituary

Jeskel Louise Jordan

September 3, 1951 — March 17, 2026

Obituary

Chad Michael Williams

December 12, 1983 - March 3, 2026

Obituary

Ronald "Ronnie" Tetreau

June 3, 1952 - March 22, 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 81. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Tonight   Partly cloudy, with a low around 58. Calm wind.

Wednesday   A slight chance of sprinkles after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 61. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Thursday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 59. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Steven Harden Sentenced to 25 Years for Child Pornography and Animal Abuse

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on March 23, 2026, Steven Harden, 38, of Pearl River, Louisiana, was sentenced to 25 years of hard labor without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. The sentencing follows Harden’s guilty plea to multiple charges involving the possession of child pornography and the sexual abuse of animals.

The sentence, handed down by the Honorable Judge Alan A. Zaunbrecher, is to be served concurrently with the 20-year prison term Harden is currently serving for a 2024 conviction involving molestation of a juvenile and computer-aided solicitation. As a result of yesterday’s proceedings, Harden will serve a total of 25 years in custody of the Department of Corrections.

Click here for previous related stories

Harden pleaded guilty as charged to possession of pornography involving juveniles under the age of thirteen, possession of pornography involving juveniles, and three counts of Sexual Abuse of an Animal

Assistant District Attorney Iain Dover prosecuted the case. In addition to the prison time, Judge Zaunbrecher ordered lifetime sex offender registration and issued two permanent protective orders.

The sentencing hearing featured harrowing testimony from survivors. One victim, who was a child when the abuse began, told the court: "You assaulted me when I was a child, and you were a grown man. For a long time, I felt powerless. Today the truth won, and today I take my power back.”

Another victim addressed the lifelong impact of Harden’s actions, stating, "He has ruined my childhood. You made my life miserable. Go rot in hell, you don't deserve sympathy or empathy. You're a straight monster!"

A guardian of one of the victims also testified to the emotional toll on the family, telling Harden, "You have caused me so much pain and suffering. A monster like you should never see the light of day again."

"The details of this case are deeply disturbing, involving the exploitation of children and the abuse of defenseless animals," DA Sims said. "While this 25-year sentence runs concurrently with his previous conviction, it ensures this dangerous predator remains removed from our community for a significant period. We remain committed to seeking justice for survivors and ensuring their voices are heard and honored in our courtroom."

Obituary

John Norman Gallaspy

November 8, 1932 - March 21, 2026

Obituary

Leslie Daryl Grant

April 20, 1972 - March 21, 2026

20-Year-Old Franklinton Man Killed in Washington Parish Crash

On March 22, 2026, at approximately 10:00 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA Highway 436 near LA Highway 62 in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 20-year-old Hayden S. Davis of Franklinton.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Davis was driving a 2008 Infiniti G35 east on LA Highway 436. At the same time, a 2026 Kia K5 was traveling east on LA Highway 436. For reasons still under investigation, the Infiniti was attempting to pass the Kia in a no-passing zone, and the vehicles collided. As a result of the crash, the Infiniti ran off the roadway and overturned. Hwy 436 between Jim Stuart Cutoff Road and K C  Mackenzie Road was closed for a time due to the crash.

Davis, who was unrestrained, was ejected from the vehicle and died on scene. The driver of the Kia, was properly restrained and uninjured.

As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists of the importance of making good decisions while operating motor vehicles. Never drive impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that every person inside a motor vehicle, regardless of seating position, remain properly restrained at all times. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can mean the difference between life and death.

State Fire Marshal Investigating Fatal Fire in Bogalusa

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFM) reports that a fatal fire in Bogalusa on Friday (March 20, 2026) is being investigated. 

Last Friday, around 11 p.m., Washington Parish Fire District 7 responded to a fire in the 62000 block of Easterling Landing Road in Bogalusa. A 56-year-old man lost his life in the blaze. Investigators say the cause of the fire is undetermined. Due to the extent of the damage, it is unknown if the home had a working smoke alarm.

The victim's name has not been released.

DPS Principal Assistant, Chief Bryan J Adams emphasized the importance of fire safety and early detection. “These tragedies are stark reminders of how critical it is to have working smoke alarms in your home. A few minutes can make the difference between life and death. If you don’t have smoke alarms, we can help.”

The State Fire Marshal’s Office encourages all Louisiana residents to ensure their homes are protected with smoke alarms. If you do not have one or need help installing one, the Operation Save-A-Life program provides free smoke alarms and installation.

Visit lasfm.org to learn more or contact your local fire department to request a free smoke alarm and installation.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 20-22, 2026

Tilor Duncan (age 29 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on Bench Warrant/Failure to Appear, Bond Surrender, and Telephone Harassment/Obscene by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $11000.00.

Larry Hibley (age 19 with Loranger, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Halley Watson (age 39 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Tommy Clark (age 67 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language and Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

Blake Nielsen (age 29 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Sade Sims (age 38 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Pay Fine (2 counts), Possession of Stolen Property, Attempted Issuing Worthless Checks on Closed Account, Attempted Theft by Fraud, and Resisting an Officer by the Franklinton Police Department and on the charge of Contempt of Court 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   Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 82. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the morning.

Tonight   Partly cloudy, with a low around 58. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.

Tuesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 82. Calm wind.

Tuesday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. Calm wind.

Wednesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 59. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 83. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 59. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday   Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 84. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Monday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. Calm wind.

Tuesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Calm wind.

Tuesday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. Calm wind.

Washington Parish Council Agenda for March 23, 2026

The Washington Parish Council will meet at 5:30 PM on March 23, 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:

Proclamation: Ben's Ford Varsity Lady Eagles Basketball Team

Presentation: Recognizing the Retirement of Dewitt Williams, Washington Parish Government Permit Office

John Young: Candidate for Louisiana Public Service Commission, District 1

Austin Magee: Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives, Louisiana's 5th Congressional District

ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/DISCUSSION ITEMS

• Ordinance No. 26-783: Adopt an Ordinance to Establish the 22nd Judicial District Children and Youth Planning Board; to Provide for the Appointment of Members by the Washington Parish Council; and to Provide for Other Matters in Accordance with LA. R.S. 46:1941.1 ET SEQ.

• Ordinance No. 26-784: Adopt an Ordinance to Amend and Ratify Ordinance No. 06-412, Adopted December 11, 2006, Relative to Building Codes and Permits; to Update the Adoption of the Louisiana State Uniform Construction Code Pursuant to LA. R.S. 40:1730.21 ET SEQ., to Provide for Automatic Incorporation of Future State-Adopted Code Editions; to Provide for Administration, Permits, Inspections, Contractor Registration, Enforcement, Penalties and Appeals; to Provide for Reference to the Comprehensive Development Ordinance for Fees; and to Provide for Related Matters.

• Ordinance No. 26-785: Adopt an Ordinance Prohibiting Open Burning Within the Unincorporated Areas of Washington Parish, Louisiana, Providing for  Enforcement, Authorizing Code Enforcement Actions and Providing for Penalties.

• Resolution No. 26-1466: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Washington Parish President to Execute an Agreement with the Louisiana Department of  Transportation and Development (DOTD) for State Project No. H.015434 Relating to the Replacement of the Mitch Road Bridge Over Peters Creek.

• Resolution No. 26-1467: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Washington Parish President to Enter into an Incumbent Worker Training Program Agreement with Geaux Jobs-Local Workforce Development Area 20 for Commercial Driver's License (CDL) Training.

• Resolution No. 26-1468: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Washington Parish President to Execute Documents Necessary for Participation in an On The-Job Training Program Administered by Geaux Jobs-Local Workforce Development Area 20.

• Resolution No. 26-1469: Adopt a Resolution Approving the Holding of an Election in Washington Parish Fire Protection District No. 1, State of Louisiana, on Saturday, June 27, 2026, to Authorize the Levy of a Special Tax Therein.

• Resolution No. 26-1470: Adopt a Resolution for Appointment to the Washington Parish Tourism Commission Board of Directors.

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

Senior Citizens Picnic is in Cassidy Park on April 17th

Easter Bash & Egg Hunt in Cassidy Park on March 28th

From National Drug and Alcohol Facts Week!

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 82. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Patchy fog after 5am. Otherwise, increasing clouds, with a low around 58. Southwest wind around 5 mph.

Sunday   Patchy fog before 7am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a high near 84. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 58. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the morning.

Monday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 59. Calm wind.

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture

Arrest Made in Amite Drive-By Shooting

On March 17, 2026, at approximately 4:15 PM, the Amite City Police Department responded to reports
of gunshots in the 500 block of South Second Street. Upon arrival, officers discovered a crime scene with numerous shell casings in the area.

Following a thorough investigation, including the review of witness statements, detectives were able to identify a suspect. An arrest warrant was subsequently obtained for 23-year-old Joshua Patrick of Amite, Louisiana.

On March 18, 2026, Joshua Patrick was taken into custody and charged with the following:

• • Two (2) counts of Attempted First Degree Murder
• • Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm
• • Illegal Discharge of a Firearm
• • Assault by Drive-By Shooting
• • Three (3) counts of Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property
• • Parole Violation

Statement from Chief Lendrick Francois: "The safety of our community remains our top priority, and we will continue to work diligently to ensure those responsible are held accountable. I commend our officers and investigators for their swift and thorough work in this case. We also appreciate the cooperation of community members who provided critical information that assisted in this investigation."

The Amite City Police Department would like to thank the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office for their assistance in this investigation.

This remains an active case, and additional information may be released as it becomes available. Anyone with further information is encouraged to contact the Amite City Police Department at (985) 748-6169.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 19, 2026

Joseph Graves (age 51 with no address shown) was booked on the charge of Open Container in Vehicle and Determination of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

James Morgan (age 62 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Tail Light, Open Container in Vehicle, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd + Offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

Destiny Ard (age 28 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Government. No bond set at this time.

Alexis Ishee (age 22 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Parole Violation and Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

George Herron (age 54 with no address shown) was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle ($25000 or More) 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 southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 54. Southwest wind around 5 mph.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 82. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night   Increasing clouds, with a low around 59. Southwest wind around 5 mph.

Sunday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 84. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 58. Southwest wind around 5 mph.

Obituary

Clarence Alton Russell

January 8, 1953 - March 18, 2026

Obituary

Bobby Earl Dickerson, Sr.

October 18, 1941 — March 15, 2026

Slidell Felon Sentenced to 20 Years for Violent Armed Confrontation Over Vehicle Repossession

District Attorney Collin Sims announces that on March 18, 2026, the Honorable Judge Scott Gardner sentenced 57-year-old Cordell Parker of Slidell to 20 years in the Department of Corrections, without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence, for his role in a violent 2025 assault. Judge Gardner further designated the crimes as crimes of violence.

The sentencing follows a February 25, 2026, trial where a St. Tammany Parish jury found Parker guilty of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon and Attempted Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities during a crime of violence. Assistant District Attorneys Gary Tromblay and Jay Adair prosecuted the case.

The charges stem from an incident on January 31, 2025. A repossession agent for Spartan Recovery arrived at a residence on C L Parker Road in Slidell to recover a 2017 Mercedes-Benz. While the agent was performing his duties, Parker approached him, appearing angry. Under the guise of retrieving personal belongings from the car, Parker returned from his residence armed with a semi-automatic handgun.

Parker then held the agent at gunpoint, forced the disconnect of the vehicle, and placed the barrel of the pistol against the victim’s forehead. He ordered the victim to his knees and threatened to execute him. As the victim managed to flee the scene, a gunshot was fired. Parker was later apprehended by the U.S. Marshals Service.

During the sentencing hearing on March 18, 2026, the victim read a harrowing statement to the court detailing the lasting trauma of the encounter.

"I will NEVER forget the look on your face, and the anger in your eyes," the victim told the court. "I will NEVER forget what the barrel of that gun felt like against my skin. I will NEVER forget the second I heard you shoot that gun. You wanted to kill me. You wanted to take my life."

The victim described how the assault forced him to quit his job and left him struggling with severe depression and constant fear. "I felt like I had to watch over my shoulder anywhere I went...all of this over a car for you, and money for my family."

DA Sims emphasized that the 20-year sentence reflects both the severity of the crime and Parker’s extensive criminal history, spanning four decades. Parker’s prior record includes convictions for theft, simple burglary, drug charges, and attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

"This defendant has spent forty years proving he has no regard for the law or the lives of others," said DA Sims. "Today’s sentence ensures that he will no longer be a threat to those in our community who are simply trying to do their jobs and provide for their families. We stand with the victim, whose bravery in facing his attacker in court helped ensure that justice was served."

Obituary

Charlie M. "Sonny" Blades

April 26, 1937 - March 17, 2026

Permits Approved for New Cell Towers in Washington Parish

The Washington Parish Planning Commission met Tuesday (March 17, 2026) evening and approved
Conditional Use Permits for three new Telecommunications Facilities, including cell towers to be built in Washington Parish.

• The first request heard by the Commission was by Diamond Communications, LLC for a facility at,  19227 Austin Varnado Rd., Franklinton, La. (located west of franklinton between Richardson and Stoney Point and off of Highway 10). The Commission heard from several residents in the area, some opposed and some in favor of approval of the permit request.  Following Public Participation and review of the regulations in place, the Commission approved the permit by a vote of 4 to 3. We have learned that an appeal to the Washington Parish Council has been filed. (See the video below, beginning at 6:17 into the video and to 52:53)

• The second request heard by the Commission was by Diamond Communications, LLC for a facility at 11490 Highway 1075, Bogalusa, La. (located in the Rio community). No opposition to the permit was heard and the Commission approved the permit 7 to 0. (See the video below, beginning at 53:15 into the video)

• The third request heard by the Commission was by The Towers, Inc. for a facility at 23243 E. Fairgrounds Rd., Franklinton, La. No opposition to the permit was heard and the Commission approved the permit 7 to 0. (See the video below, beginning at 1:01:10 into the video)

Also on the Commission's Agenda was a Conditional Use Permit Request by Christian Case, W.C. and Co., LLC for construction of townhouses/duplexes in Franklinton, La. The Commission heard the presentation of the request and from residents in the area. After consideration of the regulations in place and of other legalities, the permit was not approved. (See the video below, beginning at 1:10:30 into the video)

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 17-18, 2026

Shannon Temples (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Caleb Moss (age 20 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Chelsea Hartzog (age 34 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on th charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts), Possession of Schedule II Drugs (3 counts), and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by Probation and Parole and on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriffs Office. No bond set at this time.

William Hardin (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts) by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Kaitlyn Hodges (age 26 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts) and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Jimmie Tate (age 68 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Sean McCullough (age 40 with no address shown) was booked on the charge of Criminal Conspiracy to Commit Monetary Instrument Abuse by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Amy Seals (age 38 with no address shown) was booked on the charge of Contributing to Delinquency of a Juvenile by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $309.00.

***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 75. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 49. Calm wind.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 80. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 56. Southwest wind around 5 mph.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 84. Light southwest wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Saturday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 60. Southwest wind around 5 mph.

Ponchatoula Woman Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash

On March 17, 2026, at approximately 2:30 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA Highway 1085 near Alice Street in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 47-year-old Jessica G. Cannatella of Ponchatoula.

The initial investigation revealed that a 1999 Jeep Cherokee, driven by Cannatella, was traveling south on LA Highway 1085. At the same time, a 2014 Nissan Murano, driven by 38-year-old Holly M. Williams of Abita Springs, was traveling north on LA Highway 1085. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan crossed the center line and struck the Jeep head-on.

Cannatella, who was unrestrained, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment, where she later died. Williams, who was properly restrained, suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. A front-seat passenger in the Nissan, who was unrestrained, suffered moderate injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

During the investigation, Williams showed signs of impairment and was subsequently arrested. Upon her release from the hospital, Williams will be booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Facility for Vehicular Homicide, Vehicular Negligent Injury, Driving While Intoxicated (Third Offense), Careless Operation, and Fake Motor Vehicle Inspection. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were collected for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

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

Louisiana State Police remind all motorists of the dangers of impaired driving, which can have devastating consequences whether caused by alcohol, drugs, or a combination of both. Motorists are urged to make responsible decisions, including never driving while impaired, always ensuring all occupants are properly restrained, and avoiding distractions while driving. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death. To report hazardous driving, dial *LSP (*577).

Obituary

Sharon Kay Ecroyd

October 1, 1959 - March 18, 2026

Obituary

James Edward Baughman

May 12, 1937 - March 16, 2026

Slidell Man Found Guilty in Rural Pearl River Burglary

District Attorney Collin Sims announces that on March 17, 2026, a St. Tammany Parish jury found Fred Arthur Brady, age 63 and of Slidell, Louisiana, guilty as charged on all counts related to a 2025 burglary and theft. The jury returned guilty verdicts for Simple Burglary, Theft valued at less than $1,000, and Criminal Trespass. The trial was presided over by the Honorable Vincent J. Lobello. Assistant District Attorneys Shelby Stoop and Amanda Gritten handled the prosecution.

The case began on August 5, 2025, when a resident of Highway 41 in Pearl River discovered his deceased grandfather’s property had been targeted. A house trailer was burglarized, and over $1,000 worth of equipment - including a floor jack, truck wheels, and various hand tools - was stolen from under a carport and inside the mobile home.

While the suspects removed one trail camera, other motion-triggered cameras on the property captured a vehicle occupied by three men. Through a collaborative effort between the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO) and the Slidell Police Department (SPD), investigators identified the men as Fred Brady, George Haley III, and John Christopher Seibel.

SPD Detective Christian Paz led the investigation, utilizing body-worn camera footage from a previous SPD traffic stop to confirm the identities of the suspects, who were wearing the same clothing seen in the burglary videos.

During the trial, the defense argued that Brady believed the group had permission to be on the property. However, prosecutors presented evidence of forced entry to disprove this claim.

"The defense argued this defendant thought they had permission to be there," said ADA Shelby Stoop. "We emphasized the fact that they pried open the door to gain entry to the mobile home, which clearly shows there was no permission. Evidence also showed the defendant rifling through the victim’s carport and loading a stolen floor jack into the vehicle."

Criminal records indicate that Brady has multiple prior convictions, including Distribution of Oxycodone, Possession of Methamphetamine, and Possession of Buprenorphine. He also faces several pending charges, including Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl, two counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine. 

Sentencing is set to take place on April 1, 2026, in front of Judge Lobello.

District Attorney Sims commends the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Slidell Police Department for their professional coordination and diligent work in bringing all three individuals to justice.

Obituary

Richard Emile Fournet

March 20, 1955 — March 7, 2026

Obituary

Aubrey A. “Gus” Magee

March 6, 1941 - March 16, 2026

Human Remains Identified as Missing Ponchatoula Man

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office has received confirmation from the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office that human remains found in the Ponchatoula area in September are those of 43-year-old James Wood (pictured below).

The case has now been reclassified as a homicide. While the official manner of death is still undetermined, there is evidence of a gunshot wound among the remains.

Wood, known to loved ones as ‘Jimmy,’ was last seen on surveillance video at the La 22 Mart on the corner of Highway 22 and Lee’s Landing in Ponchatoula on Thursday, June 19, 2025. Relatives reported last speaking to him on Saturday, June 21. He was officially reported missing on June 25th. His car, keys, and other belongings were found at his home in the 40000 block of River Road in Ponchatoula.

On September 12, 2025, human remains were discovered in a wooded area near Wood’s address. Since that time, the remains have been under analysis by the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab and the specialized FACES Lab in an effort to confirm their identity. DNA testing has concluded and confirmed that the remains are Wood.

“Our hearts go out to this family, as this is devastating news following an excruciating wait for answers about where Jimmy is,” said Sheriff Gerald Sticker. “While we now have one answer, there are several more unanswered questions, including what happened to Jimmy and who is responsible for what happened to him. My detectives have not stopped searching for those answers, and they will not stop.”  

Anyone with information about this case is asked to contact our 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! Tips received directly through Crime Stoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.

Wanted by St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office

Glenn “Stephen” Maddox (goes by” Stephen”), age 69 with a last known address 100 block of Bayou Paquet, Slidell, LA., is wanted by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

After bonding out in 2019 on sexual battery against a victim under the age of 13 (victim 4 years old), Maddox began selling all his property and vehicles.  Maddox failed to appear (FTA in Court)  for any further court dates, fleeing St Tammany Parish.  He is currently wanted by St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO) on a March 09, 2020, felony warrant for Failure to Appear (FTA) in Court on Sexual Battery and Molestation of Juvenile Under 13 YOA.   Maddox has ties to Mississippi, Tennessee and Georgia. Photos are from 2019.

All tips to Crimestoppers are anonymous. We never ask for your name, and your identity is never revealed. To make an anonymous tip: 📞 Call 504-8221111 or 🖥️ visit www.crimestoppersgno.org

Obituary

Shirley Ann Forestier Perrodin

August 1, 1949 - March 13, 2026

Obituary

Jane Louise Mitchell Cox

September 6, 1939 – March 16, 2026

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 66. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 43. Calm wind.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 75. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 52. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 80. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 56. Southwest wind around 5 mph.