Kenneth Roy Magee
April 16, 1944 - May 8, 2026
Syncere Givens (age 19) was booked on the charges of First Degree Murder and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the Slidell Police Department.
Ashley Lawson (age 39) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Chrystian Bounds (age 22) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Michael Hunt (age 58) was booked on the charge of Extortion by the Louisiana State Police.
Zandrina Holloway (age 40) was
booked on the charges of Theft, Fugitive, and Contempt of Court by the Slidell Police Department.
Elaina Cliatt (age 39) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
John Garriga (age 56) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Cameron Lemoine (age 38) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery, Simple Criminal Damage to Property 1000 to under 50000 (3 counts), Simple Criminal Damage Less Than 1000, Simple Criminal Damage to Property (3 counts), Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Mandeville Police Department.
Justin Barthelemy (age 20) was booked on the charges of First Degree Murder, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, and Possession of Firearm by Convicted Felon by Convicted Felon by the Slidell Police Department.
Bryan Rodriguez (age 45) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Emyni Hall (age 20) was booked on the charges of Hate Crimes, Carjacking, Armed Robbery/Attempted Armed Robbery/Use of Firearm, Aggravated Second Degree Battery, Second Degree Kidnapping, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Extortion, Bank Fraud, Access Device Fraud, Interfering With Emergency Communication, Armed Robbery, and Theft of Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by the Slidell Police Department.
Dorthea Batson (age 34) was booked on the charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Joseph Wardle (age 41) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule III CDS and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Evaristo Diaz (age 34) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer and Driver Must Be Licensed by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
James Faucheux (age 38) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Eddie Reeves (age 43) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Brad Lato (age 41) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Garrett Griggs (age 48) was booked on the charges of Fugitive, Forgery, and Theft Over 25000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Cordarrel Carter (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, and Possession of Schedule I Drugs (Tetahydrocannabinols or Synthetic Cannbinoids) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Crystal Edmonds (age 43 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule I Drugs (Tetrahydrocannbinols or Synthetic Cannbinoids by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jacobi Buisson (age 19 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of CDS in Presence of Juvenile by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Container Gardening Gives People More Options
Not everyone has a yard where they can grow plants. Even people with a yard may not have the sun exposure or drainage needed to grow what they want or the physical ability to tend an in-ground garden. Those of us who do have in-ground gardens can also enjoy the cheer brought by containerized plants on the patio, porch, or deck.
Two of the most important things to know about growing plants in containers relate to drainage: Make sure the container has adequate holes in the bottom (unless you’re growing something like Louisiana irises) and use a potting mix, not true soil. Real garden soil does not drain well enough when it’s in a container.
In the Southeast, potting mixes are often made up of some combination of pine bark and peat moss, with lime to adjust the pH and, sometimes, slow-release fertilizer.
While growing in pots requires making sure you have adequate drainage, you’ll generally also need to water plants in containers more frequently than those in the ground. How often depends on the size of the pot, sun exposure, temperature, and other factors. You can stick your finger in the potting mix to get an idea of how wet it is. With a small pot, you can also gauge how dry it is by picking it up and feeling its weight.
Slow-release fertilizer usually works well for containerized plants. One application early in the growing season can provide nutrients for several months. However, in our hot, humid climate, nutrients are released more quickly than in cooler, less rainy climates. So, a slow-release fertilizer probably won’t provide nutrients for as long as the product label says it will. If needed, you can make another application of slow-release fertilizer or use water-dissolved fertilizer from time to time. If the plant is one that you want to harden off before cold weather arrives, avoid using slow-release fertilizer late in the growing season.
Containerized plants provide both a benefit and a challenge when it comes to protecting them from cold temperatures. On one hand, having plants in containers allows us to move them to a protected area. On the other hand, the roots of plants in pots are more exposed to temperature fluctuations than those in the ground. So, some root-hardy tropical plants that would not need to be protected if planted in the ground may need to be protected when in pots.
Keep in mind that you still need to choose plants that are suited to the amount of sun or shade that your site gets.
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).
On Monday (May 5, 2026), officers with the Bogalusa Police Department conducting DWI saturation patrol arrested two individuals following a vehicle pursuit that resulted in the seizure of fentanyl, methamphetamine, marijuana, and other narcotics-related evidence.
At approximately 7:34 p.m., Officers observed a dark blue 1993 GMC pickup truck commit a traffic violation near the intersection of East 3rd Street and Sullivan Drive. Officers also observed the vehicle displaying no license plate and attempted to conduct a traffic stop.
The driver refused to stop and accelerated away from officers, traveling northbound on Second Avenue. During the pursuit, officers observed items being thrown from the passenger side of the vehicle before the truck abruptly came to a stop a short distance later.
Officers conducted a felony traffic stop and safely detained both occupants. During the investigation, officers recovered a black cloth bag that had been discarded from the vehicle. Inside the bag, officers located approximately 29.7 grams of suspected fentanyl, 30.2 grams of suspected methamphetamine, and Multiple Suboxone strips.
A search of the driver, identified as 42-year-old Joshua Roberts of Bogalusa, allegedly revealed additional quantities of suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine, bringing the total amount of fentanyl seized to 37.7 grams and the total amount of methamphetamine to 32.7 grams. Officers also seized $476 in suspected drug proceeds.
Officers also recovered suspected marijuana, drug paraphernalia, prescription medications, and packaging materials commonly associated with narcotics distribution.
The passenger, identified as 62-year-old Clarence Harris, was also found in possession of suspected marijuana, prescription medications, rolling papers, and marijuana cigarettes. Officers additionally observed Harris discarding items from the vehicle during the stop.
Roberts was arrested and charged with numerous offenses including:
Harris was arrested and charged with:
“This arrest is another example of proactive patrol efforts leading to the removal of dangerous narcotics from our community,” said a Bogalusa Police Department spokesperson. “The quantity of fentanyl recovered during this incident posed a serious threat to public safety.”
The investigation remains ongoing. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
District Attorney Collin Sims announces that on Friday, May 8, 2026, Amanda Lynn Flocke, age 40 and of Covington, Louisiana, a first-time offender, pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute 28 to 250 grams of Fentanyl. Flocke received a significant 30-year sentence in the Department of Corrections from the Honorable Judge Richard Swartz.
Click here for previous related stories
The investigation, led by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office (STPSO), began in September 2023. Detectives received a tip regarding suspicious activity captured on a video call in which Flocke was observed at her kitchen table counting several thousand blue pills - later identified as counterfeit M30 fentanyl tablets - in the presence of her minor children.
A subsequent search of Flocke’s residence in Mandeville at that time led to the recovery of over 400 grams of Fentanyl, approximately 29 grams of crystal methamphetamine, and various quantities of oxycodone and hydrocodone. Detectives also discovered a clandestine laboratory setup, including pill presses and binding agents, as well as stolen prescription medication Flocke had obtained through her employment at a local care facility.
"The sheer volume of fentanyl recovered in this case represents thousands of potentially lethal doses kept out of our neighborhoods," said District Attorney Collin Sims. "This 30-year sentence sends a clear message: if you choose to bring this poison into our community - especially in the presence of children - you will face the full weight of the law. My office remains committed to working alongside the Sheriff’s Office to dismantle these operations and protect our citizens from the fentanyl epidemic."
Flocke’s co-defendant, John Silas Joiner, is currently scheduled for trial on May 18, 2026. If convicted, Joiner faces a mandatory life sentence.
The case was investigated by the Saint Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division and was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Iain Dover and Christina Fisher.
Christopher Bridges (age 35) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jean Burnes (age 39) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Rashad Riddick (age 19) was booked on the charges of First Degree Murder and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the Slidell Police Department.
Kerion Major (age 19) was booked on the charges of First Degree Murder and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the
Slidell Police Department.
Chatmers Gillin (age 20) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Timothy Pavoloni (age 66) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule III CDS, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription, Crossing Private Property to Enter a Highway, Driving Under Suspension, and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles/Display of Plate by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Robert Vince (age 55) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, and Possession of Schedule III CDS by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Justin Andry (age 32) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Covington Police Department.
Kenneth Self (age 27) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.
Jacqueline Scott (age 43) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Semaj Price (age 22) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Use of Motor Vehicle by the Slidell Police Department.
Jeremy Hobgood (age 46 was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Christopher McCann (age 34) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Jennifer Jenkins (age 51) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription, and Court Sanction by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tonya Dillon (age 54) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Robb Sciacca (age 35) was booked on the charges of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Improper Lane Use by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Mark Martone (age 40) was booked on the charges of Simple Criminal Damage to Property 1000 to Under 50000 and Resisting an Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Gary Costanza (age 62) was booked on the charges of Failure to Yield at Intersection and DWI by the Covington Police Department.
Maya Price (age 24) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Battery by the Covington Police Department.
Destinee Hebert (age 31) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protective Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Tarayn Jones (age 21 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Clay Smith (age 23 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.
Dakota Givens (age 29 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on Wednesday (May 6, 2026), Lenin Antonio Munoz-Rivera, age 34 and of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced for the commission of multiple counts of sexual abuse involving a child. The Honorable Judge Richard Swartz sentenced Munoz-Rivera to 25 years at hard labor on each count, to be served concurrently. Upon completion of his sentence, the defendant will be subject to deportation. Munoz-Rivera was sentenced on the charges of Second-Degree Rape, Sexual Battery of a Victim Under Age 13, and Aggravated Crime Against Nature with a Victim Under Age 13.
In addition to the prison sentence, the Court issued a lifetime protective order in favor of the victim.
The investigation began in late 2023 after the victim disclosed the abuse to a family member. The case was initially reported to the Travis County Sheriff’s Office in Texas before being forwarded to the Slidell Police Department. Detectives determined that the abuse occurred both in Central America and after the defendant moved to Slidell in 2021. The Slidell Police Department worked in close coordination with Texas authorities and the Children’s Advocacy Center (CAC) to secure the evidence needed for prosecution.
A forensic interview conducted at the CAC detailed a pattern of abuse occurring between 2021 and 2022. The victim, who was between 11 and 12 years old during the time of the offenses in Louisiana, provided statements that were instrumental in securing the conviction.
During the proceedings, the victim’s family member provided a moving impact statement describing the profound trauma the abuse caused the family.
"I was not expecting this to happen and destroy my life," she stated. "It is a constant battle, to always be thinking about the past, the present, and what it will be of the future...I hope my words are helpful to understand how this situation has changed my life categorically."
District Attorney Collin Sims emphasized the office's dedication to seeking justice for survivors of such predatory crimes.
"The resolution of this case is a testament to the bravery of the victim and the tireless work of our law enforcement partners," said District Attorney Sims. "This sentence ensures this individual is held accountable for the irreparable harm he caused. We will continue to use every resource at our disposal to protect our children and support families as they navigate the path to healing."
Assistant District Attorney Christina Fisher prosecuted the case.
Chastity White (age 33) was booked on the charges of Automobile Insurance Policies Fraud and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Louisiana State Police.
Candice Breland (age 37) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Austin Pounds (age 35) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Jacob McDonald (age 22) was booked on the charge of First Degree Rape/Victim Under 13 YOA by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Mark Finn (age 56) was booked on the charges of Theft of Motor Vehicle 1000-5000, Possession of Schedule II, Obstruction of Justice, and Taking Contraband to and from a Penal Institution by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Daniel Williams (age 24) was booked on the charge of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by Bondsman.
Earl Dysart (age 34) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Montel James (age 20) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Anthony Devoney (age 56) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule I, Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule I CDS (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, and Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon by the Slidell Police Department.
Lillian Young (age 30) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Caitlyn Cottrell (age 28) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (3rd Offense) and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.
Jed Landry (age 43) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Trinni Lucas (age 49) was booked on the charges of DWI and Careless Operation by the Causeway Bridge Police.
Gregory Jourdan (age 63) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.
Katie Tyson (age 28) was booked on the charges of DWI and Establishing Speed Zones by the Louisiana State Police.
Coniece Allen-Brown (age 51) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
On May 5, 2026 at around 11:57 PM, officers from the Hammond Police Department witnessed a shooting into a crowd in the North Cate Street area. Two were injured.
Multiple suspects were identified who fled the area in a vehicle. Officers initiated a pursuit, which ended when the suspects' vehicle crashed. One of the suspects was injured during the crash and the others were taken into custody. At this time, the driver of the vehicle is unknown.
Multiple firearms were seized, including some that had been modified to function as fully-automatic weapons using a “switch.”
The following individuals were arrested:
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Anyone knowing the identity of the driver or with information is asked to contact Sergeant Ronney Domiano with the Hammond Police Department Criminal Investigations Division at 985-277-5710 or domiano_rj@hammond.org, via the Hammond Police Department’s Facebook page, or through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1-800-554-5245. Be a part of the solution, and you may be eligible for a cash reward.
“This is yet another example of young individuals who fear no consequence for their actions. This situation had a huge potential for loss of life if it were not for the quick actions of all our officers who were on scene when it occurred,” said Chief Edwin Bergeron Jr.
Mark Finn, age 56 and of the Covington-area, was arrested Wednesday (May 6, 2026) in connection with the theft of a motor vehicle.
Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Property Crimes Division initiated an investigation after being contacted by an individual who reported purchasing a vehicle from Mark Finn. The individual later discovered the vehicle was possibly stolen while attempting to sell it to a scrap yard. An employee at the facility recognized the vehicle and alerted the buyer to its stolen status.
Deputies located and arrested Finn at his residence without incident. While dropping Finn off at the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center, the transporting deputy discovered a white powdery substance on the rear floorboard of the patrol vehicle. The substance was tested and yielded positive results for methamphetamine.
Finn was booked on the charges of Theft of a Motor vehicle $1k to $5k (felony), Possession of Schedule II CDS (Methamphetamine), Obstruction of Justice, and Contraband to Penal Institutions.
The National Day of Prayer is an annual observance held on the first Thursday of May, inviting people to
pray for the nation. It was created in 1952 by a joint resolution of the United States Congress, and signed into law by President Harry S. Truman.
It exists to communicate with every individual the need for personal repentance and prayer and is based on the understanding that this country was birthed in prayer and in reverence for the God of the Bible.
The National Day of Prayer has great significance for us as a nation as it enables us to recall and to teach the way in which our founding fathers sought the wisdom of God when faced with critical decisions. It stands as a call for us to humbly come before God, seeking His guidance for our leaders and His grace upon us as a people.
Craig Anderson (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Change/Secure Registration, Stop Signs and Yield Signs Violations, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Clarence Harris (age 62 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Possession of Schedule I Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Legend Drug Sale/Possession, and Possession of Schedule 3 Drugs With Intent to Distribute by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Joshua Roberts (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Stop Signs and Yield Signs Violations, Resisting Arrest by Flight, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Schedule I Drugs, No License Plate, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses, Legend Drug Sale/Possession, and Possession of Schedule 3 Drugs With Intent to Distribute by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Joseph Roach (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Obstruction of Justice by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help identifying and locating several suspects accused of stealing thousands of dollars from several area discount stores in the past week.
Two clearer images accompanied the press release and are shown at right.
The first instance was reported on April 30th at the Dollar General store in the 42000 block of Happywoods Road in Hammond. The store manager reported two black men and a black female came in around 7 p.m. and stole more than $1,100 in laundry detergent. The trio left in a red, 4-door sedan with a decorative front license plate that had pink writing. The same group is believed to have stolen similar items from the same location on May 4th.
The next instance was officially documented on May 3, occurring at the Dollar General on Pumpkin Center Road. In that case, a lone, black female is seen stealing a large amount of cleaning supplies before leaving in an older model gray Nissan sedan that has a rusted hood. She is also believed to be the suspect in several previous thefts at this store.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who these suspects are, or their whereabouts, 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.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
A routine traffic stop conducted by the Bogalusa Police Department on April 30, 2026, resulted in the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of a significant quantity of illegal narcotics.
At approximately 11:08 p.m., an officer initiated a traffic stop after observing a vehicle commit a traffic violation at the intersection of Montgomery Street and North Border Drive. During the stop, officers noted suspicious behavior from both the driver and passenger, along with indicators consistent with possible narcotics activity.
Further investigation led to the discovery of multiple quantities of suspected cocaine located on both individuals and inside the vehicle. In total, officers seized over 48 grams of suspected cocaine, along with a digital scale, packaging materials, and U.S. currency believed to be proceeds from illegal drug sales. A firearm was also recovered from inside the vehicle and secured by officers.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Both individuals were transported to the Bogalusa City Jail for booking. During the booking process, an additional quantity of suspected methamphetamine was recovered. Search warrants executed following the arrest revealed evidence indicating the individuals had traveled to Bogalusa for the purpose of purchasing and distributing illegal narcotics.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information relating to this case is asked to contact the Bogalusa Police Department
“This case highlights the importance of proactive policing and attention to detail during routine traffic stops,” said Chief James Smith. “The good work by our officers’ led to the removal of a significant amount of dangerous narcotics as well as a firearm from our community. We remain committed to targeting those who bring illegal drugs into Bogalusa and holding them accountable.”
Nelson Richard (age 31) was booked on the charges of Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile, and Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile by the Louisiana State Police.
Joshua Daniels (age 32) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christopher Hughes (age 34) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ashley Batiste (age 28) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Mandeville Police Department.
Danny Williams (age 60) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Derrick Wilcox (age 57) was booked on the charges of Simple Criminal Damage to Property and Second Degree Murder by the Covington Police Department.
Alexah Hamilton (age 22) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Ronald Smothers (age 53) was booked on the charges of Theft of Vehicle Over 1500, Theft 5000-25000, and Extortion by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Matthew Daniel (age 43) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Theft 1000-5000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jared Pena (age 40) was booked on the charges of Expired Vehicle Inspection Sticker, Failure to Use Turn Signal, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Nathan Johnson (age 32) was booked on the charges of Manufacture/Distribution of Schedule II CDS and First Degree Murder by the Slidell Police Department.
Kyrine Navarre (age 22) was booked on charge(s) not listed by Probation and Parole.
Jorie Stansburry (age 34) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Taking Contraband to and from a Penal Institution, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer, and Theft by the Slidell Police Department.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Richard Martin (age 61 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Chandler Harvel (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Michael Mahoney (age 68 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Heather Ellis (age 45 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
On May 4, 2026, the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit, working in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, arrested 31-year-old Richard Nelson of New Orleans for attempting to engage in sexual acts with a minor.
Nelson traveled from his residence in New Orleans to a meeting location in St. Tammany Parish with the intent to engage in sexual activity with a minor. As a result, Nelson was arrested for Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Indecent Behavior with Juvenile, and Attempted Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile. He was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail. This case remains active and no further information is available at this time.
The Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit works to rescue and seek justice for victims of child exploitation and human trafficking through partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as public education. The public plays a crucial role in identifying suspects and reporting criminal or suspicious activity. An anonymous reporting form is available online at http://la-safe.org/ by clicking the “Suspicious Activity” link. Your vigilance helps protect vulnerable members of our communities and supports the fight against exploitation and trafficking.
Hareez Saleh Ali, age 34 and of Mandeville and owner of Candy & Tobacco Discounts, was arrested on April 30, 2026 as part of an ongoing investigation into the illegal distribution of kratom by businesses in St. Tammany Parish. Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Narcotics Division launched the investigation after receiving numerous complaints about tobacco shops in the parish allegedly selling kratom.
The investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at Candy & Tobacco Discounts, located at 100 S. Tyler Street in Covington. During the search, detectives seized approximately 2,709 dosage units of kratom, 12 disposable vaporizer devices containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), $7,461 in cash, and a 2018 Buick Enclave SUV believed to have been used to facilitate the distribution of kratom.
Hareez Saleh Ali is charged with Distribution of Kratom (3 counts), Possession with the Intent to Distribute Kratom (greater than 500 grams), Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance (marijuana), and Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses,
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
On August 1, 2025, Louisiana enacted Senate Bill 154 (Act 41), making it unlawful to possess, produce, or distribute kratom in the state. The law classifies kratom’s primary alkaloids, mitragynine and 7-hydroxymitragynine, as Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substances, placing them in the same legal category as heroin and LSD.
The legislation followed growing public health concerns, as families across Louisiana have reported cases of addiction and loss linked to kratom use. In St. Tammany Parish, a 36-year-old woman’s 2023 death prompted a coroner’s public health warning regarding the dangers of the substance, particularly when combined with other drugs.
“This arrest is part of our ongoing effort to hold individuals and businesses accountable for distributing illegal and potentially dangerous substances in our community,” said Sheriff Randy Smith. “Kratom is now classified as a Schedule I drug in Louisiana, and we will continue to aggressively enforce the law to protect the citizens of St. Tammany Parish.”
Sheriff Smith urges anyone with information about individuals or businesses selling kratom or other illegal drugs in St. Tammany Parish to submit a tip through the Sheriff’s Office website at www.STPSO.com or by calling the narcotics tip line at 1-888-GO-2-JAIL.
Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Proactive Enforcement Unit conducted a traffic
stop on a gray 2003 Volkswagen Passat on April 30, 2026. During the stop, a search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery of approximately 271 Tapentadol tablets, one marijuana blunt, two 9mm pistols, and $1,053 in cash.
Arrested were
18-year-old Ryan Brown for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule I CDS, Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offense, Illegal Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS, Obscured Windshield and No Motor Vehicle Inspection Sticker.
18-year-old Jacori Blair for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS and Illegal Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS.
18-year-old Kylen Williams for Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS and Illegal Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Jeffrey Lemoine (age 42) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Mandeville Police Department.
Herlin Valle (age 24) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Second Degree Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Montana Lipford (age 26) was booked on the charges of Interfering With a Law Enforcement Investigation and Resisting an Officer by the Slidell Police Department.
Alexander Matthews (age 30) was booked on the charges of Disturbing
the Peace/Drunkenness, Battery of a Dating Partner With Strangulation, and Resisting an Officer by the Slidell Police Department.
Garrett Griggs (age 48) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment, Flight From Officer, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Vincent Palmisano (age 37) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense) by the Slidell Police Department.
Michael Gibson (age 36) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute CDS, Attempt and Conspiracy, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Louisiana State Police.
Miguel Olquin (age 31) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute CDS, Attempt and Conspiracy, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Louisiana State Police.
Ernesto Ruiz (age 47) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute CDS, Attempt and Conspiracy, and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Louisiana State Police.
Derrick Jones (age 36) was booked on charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court by Agency not listed.
Sajay Stevenson (age 20) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
James Clark (age 44) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court, Contempt of Court, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear.
Lahidja Gross (age 31) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by Agency not listed.
James Carlisle (age 52) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Kirwyn Massey (age 25) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
William Tackett (age 53) was booked on the charges of Violations of Registration Provisions, Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Covington Police Department.
Gustavo Lopez (age 37) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency not listed.
Justin Blair (age 35) was booked on the charges of Violation of Protection Order (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Lavoski Davidson (age 40) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Cory Robin (age 36) was booked on the charge of Driving Under Suspension by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tazmaine Swords (age 29) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Cameron Williams (age 33) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery of the Infirm, Aggravated Obstruction of Highway of Commerce, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Hit and Run, Resisting an Officer, and Violation of Protection Order by the Slidell Police Department.
James Gordan (age 43) was booked on the charges of DWI and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Today (May 5, 2026), with the agreement of the victims’ families, Antonio Tyson entered pleas of guilty to two counts of first‑degree murder and one count of obstruction of justice in connection with the murders of Ms. Ruth Prats and Father Otis Young. Sentencing has been scheduled for June 8, 2026 at 9:00 a.m.
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Under the terms of the agreement, following victim impact testimony from members of both Ms. Prats’ and Father Otis Young’s families, Tyson will be sentenced as follows:
Life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence on each count of first‑degree murder, with those life sentences to be served consecutively; and
40 years at hard labor on the obstruction of justice count, to be served consecutively to the two life sentences.
The defendant has also agreed to forego any present or future efforts to seek sentence reduction or any release mechanism now or at any time in the future. As part of the agreement, the defendant will be housed under conditions equivalent to those on death row, subjecting him to the same confinement conditions he would have faced while awaiting execution. This condition was included to address the families’ desire that the defendant remain under conditions reflecting the severity of the crimes, while avoiding the prolonged appeals and collateral litigation that would follow a capital trial and sentencing that the State may not have been able to reliably execute.
Background and Reasons for the Resolution
The District Attorney’s Office had been pursuing the death penalty and the weight of the evidence in the case gave the State confidence that it would secure convictions. However, defense counsel presented compelling medical evidence over the past seven weeks raising meaningful concerns under Atkins v. Virginia regarding the defendant’s intellectual impairment and whether a death sentence could ultimately be carried out. While this evidence did not raise doubt as to Tyson’s guilt, his competency to stand trial, or his sanity at the time of the offenses, it did create significant risk that a death sentence imposed at trial would not withstand appellate review and thus barring the state from executing the sentence of death.
After multiple briefings and discussions with the victims’ families explaining the implications of the Atkins evidence and the risks and delay associated with pursuing capital punishment that might not ultimately be practicable, the State and the families agreed to a negotiated resolution.
This agreement removes the possibility that Tyson would receive a death sentence if convicted at the trial that was scheduled to begin on June 1, 2026. The resolution reflects the State’s careful evaluation of the law, the evidence presented by the defense, and the families’ informed participation and agreement.
District Attorney J. Collin Sims stated, “This outcome should not be interpreted as a reflection on whether the death penalty would otherwise be appropriate. The facts and circumstances surrounding the defendant’s guilt certainly warrant capital punishment given the heinous nature of the offense. However, historical IQ testing from the defendant’s childhood, MRI findings, and other documentation provided evidence of a traumatic brain injury and a significantly low level of adaptive functioning. Based on these factors, it would be challenging to overcome the legal standards established by the Supreme Court in Atkins v. Virginia. As a result, there is a strong likelihood that the State would have ultimately been precluded from pursuing an execution. Therefore, this plea agreement secures the maximum punishment legally available considering Atkins and ensures that the time served is as restrictive as possible, as if he was on death row, while relieving the family from a lifetime of appellate challenges.
The defendant’s guilty plea and agreed consecutive life sentences reflect the thorough work of the Covington Police Department, and particularly the investigation led by Cyrus Kety. Father Otis Young and Ruth Prats were deeply selfless, devoted servants to our community and their loss leaves a profound and lasting void for their loved ones and for everyone who benefited from their compassion and leadership.”
Clyde Smith (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Flight (2 counts) and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2000.00.
Leslie Davis (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Stolen Things 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.
Mary Haik (age 67 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation and Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $2500.00.
Danita Jones (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
James Thomas (age 49 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Cocaine by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.000.
Dedric Robinson (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Open Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $100000.00.
Nekeilya Pack (age 28 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Carter Macfarland (age 37 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign, Open Container, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $60000.00.
Fredrica Ramsdell (age 34 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Cocaine by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.
Keri Thomas (age 60 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Kevin Robertson (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Emilee Williams (age 32 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation (2nd or Subsequent Violation) and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.
Dallas Magee (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
The Washington Parish Council will meet at 5:30 PM on May 4, 2026 in Council Chambers at the Courthouse in Franklinton. The meeting will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv On the Agenda are the following:
Following Public Participation, the Council will hear reports from the Parish President and his staff before adjourning