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.

Obituary

Stanley Joseph Quave

January 18, 1948 — March 11, 2026

Bogalusa Police Make Arrest in 2025 Highland Park Shooting

Darrly “Rondell” Dyson, age 34, has been arrested by the Bogalusa Police Department on the charges of Attempted First Degree Murder (3 counts) and one count of Illegal Use of a Weapon in connection with a shooting in 2025,

On June 7, 2025, at approximately 5:45 PM, officers responded to reports of shots fired at Highland Park Apartments. Upon arrival, officers located one victim suffering from a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a local hospital for treatment.

An investigation revealed that the incident stemmed from an ongoing dispute. Witnesses reported that a suspect opened fire from a vehicle, striking one individual and endangering multiple others, including residents and children inside the apartment.

Detectives identified the suspect as Darrly “Rondell” Dyson and, after an extended investigation, was arrested on March 16, 2026. Dyson is currently being held pending further legal proceedings.

Investigators confirmed that one of the intended targets returned fire in self-defense. No additional charges are being pursued in that regard at this time.

This case remains under investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Bogalusa Police Department.

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

Shooting in Bogalusa Results in Woman's Arrest

Source: Bogalusa Police Department

On Sunday, March 15, 2026, at approximately 12:02 p.m., officers with the Bogalusa Police Department responded to the 500 block of Harlow Street following multiple reports of shots fired.

Upon arrival, officers spoke with witnesses who indicated that the shooting occurred in front of a residence in the area. During the investigation, officers recovered spent shell casings and obtained video footage capturing the incident.

Through witness statements and video evidence, investigators identified Adrianna L. Terrell (DOB: 02/25/2003) as the individual responsible for discharging a firearm toward a vehicle occupied by three individuals, including a five-year-old child. No injuries were reported.

At approximately 2:45 p.m., officers executed a search warrant at a nearby residence. Terrell was taken into custody without incident and later admitted to her involvement after being advised of her rights.

Terrell was transported to the Bogalusa City Jail, where she was booked on the charges of Attempted Second Degree Murder (3 counts) and Illegal Use of Weapons/Dangerous Instruments.

This remains an active investigation. Anyone with additional information is encouraged to contact the Bogalusa Police Department.

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

Bogalusa City Council Agenda for March 17th

The Bogalusa City Council will meet Tuesday (March 17, 2026) evening at 5:30 PM and on the Agenda are the following:

PUBLIC HEARING: 2026 Operating Budget - Click here for the proposed 2026 Annual Operating Budget

PUBLIC HEARINGS & ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES: 

• AN ORDINANCE to adopt the City of Bogalusa 2026 Operating Budget 

• AN ORDINANCE to honor Mrs. Valeira Payton Hicks by a dedication of the 700 block of Marx Ave to the 700 block of Valeira Payton Hicks Street in accordance to the Washington Parish 911 Commission Board procedures, including GIS and AT&T 

The Council will also hear Administrative Remarks and Council Remarks before adjourning

Washington Parish Planning Commission Agenda for March 17th

The Washington Parish Planning Commission will meet Tuesday (March 17, 2026) evening at 5:00 PM in the Council Chambers at the Courthouse in Franklinton. The meeting will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv

On the Agenda  under “New Business”, for the Commission's consideration, are the following:

• Conditional Use Permit Request: Telecommunications facility, including cell tower, located in  Franklinton, La.- Diamond Communications, LLC.

• Conditional Use Permit Request: Telecommunications facility, including cell tower, located in  Bogalusa, La.- Diamond Communications, LLC.

• Conditional Use Permit Request: Telecommunications facility, including cell tower, located at the fairgrounds in Franklinton, La.- The Towers, LLC.

• Conditional Use Permit Request: Construction of townhouses/duplexes in Franklinton, La.- Christian Case, W.C. and Co. LLC.

The Commission will provide opportunities for Public Participation, Staff Reports, and Commissioners' Comments before adjourning.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 16, 2026

Ladansia McClain (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Darryl Dyson (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted First Degree Murder/Aggravated Assault (3 counts) and Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities by the Bogalusa Police Department and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Rebecca Garrity (age 32 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Legend Drug Sale/Possession by the Bogalusa Police Department and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriffs Office. No bond set at this time.

Timothy Thomas (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information is incomplete at this time.

Adrianna Terrell (age 23 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder (3 counts), Home Invasion With Force or Violence, Cruelty to Juveniles, and Illegal Discharge/Use of Weapon by the Bogalusa Police Department and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Robert Grande (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Denzel Lee (age 28 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Ray Naquin (age 53 with no address listed) was booked on th charges of Brake Lights and Turn Signal Required, No Proof of Insurance, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Karris Saunders (age 49 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Obstruction of Justice/Damage/Conceal/Vandalism, Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete 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 56. North wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 33. Calm wind.

Wednesday   Increasing clouds, with a high near 65. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 42. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 76. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 52. Calm wind.

Help TPSO “Flush Out” This "Poopetrator"

Suspect Sought in Septic Tank Equipment Theft

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help locating a man accused of stealing and reselling septic tank parts. Gilbert Bruce Starkey, Jr., age 41, is wanted on two counts of Felony Theft in connection with several cases.

On February 12, 2016, TPSO received a theft report about an air compressor from a septic tank and a blower missing from a home on Oscar Starkey Lane in Hammond. During the investigation, two additional reports were filed of septic tank parts stolen from a business on Pumpkin Center Road. Each piece of equipment is valued at more than $1,500.

Through the investigation, detectives received information that Starkey may be a person of interest in the case. Then, detectives found social media posts by Starkey attempting to sell the items.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about where Starkey can be located to contact Det. Earl McFarland at 985-514-8181 or 985-351-8942. 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.

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Taking Care of St. Augustinegrass Lawns

Last week’s article addressed centipedegrass lawn care. Here, I discuss maintenance of one of the other common turfgrasses in our area, St. Augustinegrass.

As I mentioned in the last article, best practices for these two turfgrasses are different. If you have some of both in your lawn and prefer one over the other, you can promote growth of the one that you want by following recommended practices for that turfgrass.

Many people find St. Augustinegrass to be attractive, and it’s one of the best turfgrasses for shady areas. (Even St. Augustinegrass won’t grow well in dense shade, though. If your yard is really shady, a non-grassy groundcover may be a better choice than trying to grow turfgrass.)

While centipedegrass does best in relatively acidic soil (pH 5 – 6), St. Augustinegrass needs a soil pH more like what we’d want in a vegetable garden. A pH within the range of pH 6 – 7.5 is recommended. In many of our yards, lime will be needed to raise the pH to this range.

A soil test is needed to know what the pH of the soil is. If you get a soil test and indicate that you’re growing St. Augustinegrass, a lime recommendation will be given if it’s needed.

St. Augustinegrass needs more fertilizer than centipedegrass for best growth. Fertilizer can be applied at the rate of 1 pound of actual nitrogen (N) per 1000 square feet in both April and June. If more growth is desired, another application can be made in August. The fertilizer can be either readily soluble or slow-release.

For example, if you’re using a fertilizer that has the analysis 16-0-8 (16% nitrogen, 0% phosphate, and 8% potash), you would use 6.3 pounds of this fertilizer per 1000 square feet in April, June, and (optionally) August to get 1 pound of actual nitrogen each time.

For nutrients other than nitrogen, a soil test is needed to know how much (if any) are needed.

One negative attribute of St. Augustinegrass is that it is more prone to getting the disease large patch than some other turfgrasses are. One way to reduce the impact of this disease is to make sure that nitrogen-containing fertilizer is not applied at higher-than-recommended rates and that it’s not applied too early or too late in the year. Also, if you water your lawn, do it in the early morning.

In sunny areas, St. Augustinegrass can be mowed at a height of 2.5 to 3 inches. In shade, raising mower blades to 3 to 3.5 inches leaves the grass with more surface area to intercept light. As with other turfgrasses, mow often enough that you don’t have to remove more than one-third of the total height of the grass when you mow.

If you need to dethatch or aerate, late spring and early summer are typically good times to do this. Soil should be neither too wet nor too dry.

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).

Cold Temperatures Tonight

Obituary

Helen Jennings Applewhite

November 4, 1931 - March 14, 2026

Obituary

Timothy E. Holmes

February 26, 1962 - March 14, 2026

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 14-15, 2026

Brent Pierce (age 49 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Battery of Infirm by the Washington Parish Sheriffs Office. Bond set at $4000.00.

Markees Young (age 21 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) and Carnal Knowledge of Juvenile by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $30750.00.

Patrick Quave (age 31 with Bush, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Franklinton Police Department and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Clerk of Court. No bond set at this time.

Olivia Bean (age 25 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on charge(s) not listed by agency not shown. No bond information available.

Nicole Pruiett (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

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

Domestic Violence Attack Suspect In Custody

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office reports that 30-year-old Brice Anthony is now in custody in connection with a domestic violence attack on March 10, 2026 that occurred in Uneedus. 

Anthony is accused of kidnapping an ex-girlfriend from her home in Uneedus and holding her against her will for more than 24 hours. During the ordeal, the victim, who had a protective order against Anthony, reported that he strangled her. And during her escape, she reported being repeatedly punched and then kicked in the head after she fell to the ground. Anthony returned to the home on March 11, 2026 but got away from responding deputies.

Anthony was wanted on one count each of Domestic Abuse Battery, Domestic Abuse Battery (Strangulation), and False Imprisonment as well as two counts each of Simple Kidnapping, Violation of Protection Orders, and Resisting Arrest by Flight on Foot.

Motorcyclist Killed Near Folsom Due to Excessive Speed

On March 15, 2026, at approximately 12:30 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single-vehicle crash on LA 40 near Mary Ellen Drive in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 31-year-old Jesse M. Waddell of Mandeville.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Waddell was driving a 2026 Honda CBR600RR west on LA 40 near Mary Ellen Drive at a high rate of speed while approaching a left-hand curve. For reasons still under investigation, Waddell failed to negotiate the curve and ran off the right side of the roadway. Waddell was ejected from the motorcycle and struck a tree.

Waddell, who was wearing a DOT-approved helmet, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later died. 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. As warmer weather approaches and more motorcycles take to the road, drivers are urged to remain alert, check twice for motorcyclists, and share the roadway responsibly to help prevent serious and fatal crashes. 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/.

Excessive Speeding Contributes to Death of Ponchatoula Man

Shortly before 6:00 p.m. on March 14, 2026, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop A responded to a single-vehicle crash on LA 42 near Log Cabin Road in Ascension Parish. The crash claimed the life of 28-year-old Christian Harrell of Ponchatoula.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Harrell was driving a 2004 Chevrolet Silverado on LA 42 at a high rate of speed. For reasons still under investigation, the Silverado traveled off the left side of the road, entered a ditch, and struck a utility pole.

Harrell, who was unrestrained, was ejected from the vehicle. He sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. Impairment is unknown; however, routine toxicology samples will be obtained and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make responsible choices when driving. Avoid impairment, fatigue, and distractions, and follow all traffic laws. Most importantly, ensure every occupant in the vehicle is properly restrained. Seat belts remain one of the most effective ways to prevent serious injury or death in a crash. While not all crashes are preventable, simple precautions like these can save lives.  

Washington Parish Cattlemen's Meeting is March 31st

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   A 20 percent chance of showers between 8am and 9am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 53. Breezy, with a northwest wind 15 to 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.

Tonight   Partly cloudy, with a low around 29. Northwest wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 56. North wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 34. Calm wind.

Wednesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 66. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 41. Calm wind.

Below Average Temperatures to Start the Week

Obituary

Scott Edward Freeman

November 20, 1971 - March 10, 2026

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Mostly sunny, with a high near 83. Breezy, with a south wind 5 to 10 mph increasing to 15 to 20 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Low around 41. Breezy, with a south wind 15 to 20 mph becoming north after midnight. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Monday   A 10 percent chance of showers before 7am. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 53. Breezy, with a northwest wind around 20 mph.

Monday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 30. North wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tuesday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 56. North wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 34. Calm wind.