Bogalusa City Council Agenda for June 16, 2026

The Bogalusa City Council will meet Tuesday (June 16, 2026) evening at 5:30 PM and on the Agenda are the following:

INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES: 

• AN ORDINANCE requiring water and sewer accounts for multi-unit properties to be maintained in the name of the property owner unless each unit is individually metered 

• AN ORDINANCE authorizing the Fiscal Administrator to enter into a Professional Service Agreement with Geaux Techie to provide full IT Services for the City of Bogalusa 

Click here for the full packet and more information on the Agenda

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

Next Council Meeting will be held on July 7, 2026. 

Obituary

Marvin A. Jefferson, Sr.

August 29, 1941 — June 8, 2026

Obituary

Emery Mae Knight

September 5, 1954 – June 14, 2026

LSP Troop L Welcomes New Troopers

After 23 weeks of comprehensive mental, physical, and academic training, five Troopers assigned to Troop L in Mandeville were among the 43 members of Cadet Class 108 who graduated from the Louisiana State Police Training Academy on Friday (June 12, 2026) . Welcomed to Troop L were Tpr. Olivia Collins, Tpr. Alexander Kitch, Tpr. Blake Pellegrin, Tpr. Cody Pruitt, and Tpr. John Thornhill.

Troop L encompasses the parishes of St. Tammany, Washington, Tangipahoa, and St. Helena. 

Folsom Man Charged With Arson and Insurance Fraud

Jason Courtney , age 37 and of Folsom, was arrested June 9, 2026 by investigators with the Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) following an investigation into an intentionally set fire in the 79000 block of Booth Road in Folsom. 

On January 10, 2026, at approximately 9:32 a.m., St. Tammany Fire Department District 5 responded to a house fire. After extinguishing the blaze, the department requested assistance from the SFM to conduct an origin and cause investigation. Following an examination of the scene and additional investigative work, SFM investigators determined the fire had been intentionally set.

Courtney has been charged with Arson with Intent to Defraud (La. RS 14:53) and Insurance Fraud (La. RS 22:1924),

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

This remains an active investigation, and no further details are being released at this time.

The Louisiana State Fire Marshal’s Office reminds the public that anyone with information regarding fire-related crimes is encouraged to submit an anonymous tip by visiting lasfm.org and selecting the “Arson Fires” icon.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   A 100 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog. High near 79. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.

Tonight   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5am. Patchy fog before 8pm. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Wednesday   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 86. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Wednesday Night   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. 

Thursday   A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 86. South wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph. 

Thursday Night   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind 5 to 10 mph. 

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure located inland over south Texas is forecast to move northeastward along the Texas coast and could emerge over the northwestern Gulf of America later today or tonight. Environmental conditions are expected to be marginally conducive for the formation of a short-lived tropical storm late today or on Wednesday, especially if the system moves far enough offshore.

Interests across southern and eastern Texas and portions of Louisiana and Mississippi should prepare for periods of intense rainfall over the next several days which could produce  idespread, life-threatening flash, urban, and river flooding.  Gusty winds and coastal flooding are also possible along portions of the northwestern Gulf Coast, and Tropical Storm Watches or Warnings could be required later today. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...60 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.

Amite Jail Inmate Escapes AGAIN - Back in Custody AGAIN

A Tangipahoa Parish Jail inmate, 19-year-old Donnie Stevenson,  has been rebooked on a new charge of Simple Escape, after escaping from the Tangipahoa Parish courthouse Monday (June 15, 2026)morning.

Around 10:20 a.m., a barefoot, shackled inmate in an orange jumpsuit, confirmed quickly as Stevenson, was seen climbing over the loading dock gate at the back of the parish courthouse on Bay Street in Amite. TPSO deputies and Amite Police immediately began a search of the area. After a 5-minute track by TPSO K-9 Gunner, Stevenson was found hiding under a truck one block from the courthouse near Duncan Avenue and Mulberry Street, concluding the 30-minute search effort.

Stevenson, who is awaiting trial for 1st Degree Rape, Aggravated Kidnapping, Armed Robbery and Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, has been housed at Angola since December when he briefly escaped the courthouse under similar circumstances. He will be transported back to Angola following processing for this incident. Click here for that story

At this time, one deputy has been placed on administrative leave as the investigation into this incident continues. Additionally, the TPSO is actively working with parish government to increase the security features of the courthouse loading dock area.

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 14, 2026

Cameron Tucker (age 25) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I, Drug Paraphernalia,
Modified Exhaust, Cracked Windshield, Open Container in Vehicle, Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear, and Contempt of Court by the Covington Police Department.

Michael Salles (age 65) was booked on the charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Tracey Lambert (age 43) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State
Police.

Jose Garcia (age 21) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Covington Police Department.

Edward Tillman (age 43) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Careless Operation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Nicole Cooper (age 44) was booked on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Charles Sadler (age 31) was booked on the charges of DWI and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.

Vaughn Wardsworth (age 26) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Covington Police Department.

Karl Landry (age 35) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Use, Driving Under Suspension, Contributing to the Delinquency, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.

Jaquan Lee (age 26) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Illegal Carrying of Weapon, General Speed Law, Improper Lane Use, Drug Paraphernalia, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Keenan Wallace (age 27) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.

Truman Guichard (age 55) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Dangerous Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Raymond Bayona (age 36) was booked on the charges of Flight From Officer, Possession of a Firearm by Convicted Felon, and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.

Dawn Davis (age 46) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Aggravated Assault by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Lucas Wolfe (age 51) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness and Simple Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kevin Blackburn (age 38) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, General Speed Law, and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Kevin Smith (age 38) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

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

Obituary

Thomas B. "Ace" Magee

June 23, 1947 — June 13, 2026

Obituary

Lacey Renee Seal

October 15, 2025 - June 11, 2026

Sandbags in St. Tammany Parish

The National Weather Service are predicting 4-6 inches of rainfall through this Friday, June 19, 2026. Out
of an abundance of caution, self-service sandbag locations will be available in the following areas in St. Tammany Parish starting at 9 a.m.:

• Airport Road Public Works Barn (34783 Grantham College Drive, Slidell)

• St. Tammany Parish Government Complex (21410 Koop Drive, Mandeville)

• St. Tammany Parish Fairgrounds (1301 N. Florida Street, Covington)

Please bring your own shovel. Assistance to those in need is available by calling (985) 898-2557. 

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Cosmos Provides a Splash of Color

Louisiana Master Gardener volunteers maintain the beds in front of the LSU AgCenter office in Amite. They’ve been beautiful lately, with orange, pink, red, and blue flowers, in addition to the purple flowers of the ‘Shoal Creek’ chaste trees in front of them. One flower that’s present in abundance is yellow cosmos, which reseeded itself from last year’s plants.

I generally favor perennials, because I like plants that provide multiple years of returns on my planting investment. However, the beauty provided by annual flowers like cosmos is undeniable. Furthermore, cosmos, like their zinnia relatives, often reseed themselves. They also support pollinators such as bees and butterflies and can be used as cut flowers, though their vase life is somewhat short.

Cosmos are in the aster family with sunflowers, black-eyed susans, zinnias, and many other beloved flowers. Two kinds are commonly grown.

Yellow cosmos (Cosmos sulphureus) flowers tend, as one might expect, to be yellow or orange, while those of garden cosmos or Mexican aster (C. bipinnatus) are often pink, red, or white. However, there is some crossover in flower colors, and the shapes of the leaves are probably a more reliable way to distinguish between the two species. Yellow cosmos leaves remind me of ragweed. Garden cosmos foliage has a more delicate, lacy appearance.

Both species are native to Mexico, with the native range of yellow cosmos extending into Central America.

Cosmos can be seeded or transplanted in spring, after the last frost. If sowing seeds, wait until soil temperatures have reached about 65 degrees F or greater. Plant on a well-drained site with full to partial sun exposure.

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).

Washington Parish Council Agenda for June 15, 2026

The Washington Parish Council will meet at 5:30 PM on June 15, 2026 upstairs in Courtroom 1 at the Courthouse in Franklinton. The meeting will  be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv  On the Agenda are the following:

Sonnet Ireland: Washington Parish Library

Ashley Thomas and Tab Seals: Washington Parish Watermelon Festival

ORDINANCES/RESOLUTIONS/DISCUSSION ITEMS

• Ordinance No. 26-789: Introduce an Ordinance Establishing "No-Thru Truck Routes" on Certain Parish Roads as per Ordinance No. 13-577.

• Resolution No. 26-1499: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Acquisition of Surplus Property Through the Louisiana Property Assistance Agency Preference Buyers Program for Emergency Response and Public Safety Purposes.

• Resolution No. 26-1500: Adopt a Resolution Selecting the Official Journal for Washington Parish Government for the Period of July 1, 2026 — June 30, 2027.

• Resolution No. 26-1501: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Parish President to Execute a Contract with KTS Construction, LLC for the Angie Library Renovation Project.

• Resolution No. 26-1502: Adopt a Resolution to Appoint Abigail Kemp to the Washington Parish Library Board of Control.

• Resolution No. 26-1503: Adopt a Resolution Appointing Members to Serve on the 22nd Judicial District Children and Youth Planning Board Representing Washington Parish.

• Resolution No. 26-1504: Adopt a Resolution Authorizing the Parish President to Execute an  Engagement Letter with Taylor Porter

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

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 13-14, 2026

Kristy Wilkerson (age 30) with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Damage to Property, Aggravated Assault, Negligent Injuring, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

Daniel Watson (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Mirandol Collins (age 55 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language and Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Being Forbidden by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

Johnathan Martin (age 50 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Contempt of Court, and Aggravated Domestic Abuse Assault/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 3pm. Patchy fog before 8am. High near 84. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Tonight   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Cloudy, with a low around 72. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tuesday   A 100 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 79. South wind 5 to 10 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Tuesday Night   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 71. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm. 

Wednesday   A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 87. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Wednesday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 76. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Tropical Disturbances Today

The trough of low pressure located over northeastern Mexico is not expected to develop during the next day or so while the trough remains inland and drifts generally northward over northeastern Mexico and southern Texas. The system is then forecast to move northeastward and could re-emerge over the northwestern Gulf of America late Tuesday or Wednesday, where environmental conditions may support some development around midweek. Regardless of tropical cyclone formation, heavy rainfall, flash flooding and gusty winds are possible across portions of eastern and southern Texas and Louisiana this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Obituary

Sedgie "Bo" Wilkes

February 17, 1969 - June 13, 2026

Obituary

Minnie Pearl Brooks Lilly

July 12, 1941 - June 12, 2026

Obituary

Ella Faye Day

November 5, 1937 - June 13, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 13, 2026

Carmel Veron (age 66) was booked on the charges of DWI and Maximum Speed Limit by the Louisiana State Police.

Tedm Olivier (age 22) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Maximum Speed Limit, Following Too Close, and Driving While Under Suspension by the Louisiana State Police.

Carter Hurley (age 20) was booked on the charges of Underage DWI, Improper Lane Use, and No Taillights by the Louisiana State Police.

Jason Boggs (age 40) was booked on the charges of Operating Vehicle While Intoxicated and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Megan Vaughan (age 43) was booked on the charges of Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Being Forbidden, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Battery of a Police Officer, Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee, and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Slidell Police Department.

Payton Butler (age 26) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Latifah Nobles (age 36) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Fugitive (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Michael Weigart (age 59) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Open Container in Vehicle by the Louisiana State Police.

Duncan Murray (age 59) was booked on the charges of Entry on or Remaining in Places or on Land After Being Forbidden and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Mandeville Police Department.

Kaiden Barrios (age 18) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Penalty for Distribution or Possession With Intent to Distribute, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Unlawful Sale/Possession of Tobacco by Person Under 18 YOA by the Covington Police Department.

Skyler Jenkins (age 36) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole.

Yolanda Haynes (age 43) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.

Brett Brady (age 53) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Michael Surgi (age 60) was booked on the charge of Misuse of 911 Enhanced Emergency Phone System by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Clinton Maddox (age 33) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Covington Police Department.

Terri Puckett (age 44) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.

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

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 2am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 75. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Monday   A 80 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 2pm. Patchy fog before 8am. High near 86. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.

Monday Night   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind. 

Tuesday   A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 80. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. 

Tuesday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Multiple Rounds of Rain Monday - Thursday

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure located over eastern Mexico is producing disorganized shower and thunderstorm activity. Development is not expected during the next day or so while the low remains inland over northeastern Mexico or southern Texas during the next day or so. The system could then re-emerge over the northwestern Gulf of America around midweek while interacting with a frontal boundary, but conditions there are expected to be only marginally conducive for development. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 12, 2026

Christopher Fendley (age 51) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Taylie Fairchild (age 23) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Antoine Jackson (age 44) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial District Court.

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

Jermaine Ross (age 40) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule
IV by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Jordan Olmstead (age 28) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Walter Lewis (age 29) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapons, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, and Possession of Schedule IV by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Andrew Warren (age 26) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (4 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

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

Jamie Constantino (age 48) was booked on the charge of Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.

Anthony Genaro (age 21) was booked on the charges of Underage DWI and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Byron Brown (age 65) was booked on the charges of Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles/Display of Plate, No Insurance, Driving Under Suspension, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Dominique Partman (age 23) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Simple Assault and Simple Battery by the Covington Police Department.

William Lawton (age 52) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Brandon Every (age 38) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Perry Taylor (age 64) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Waynika Hampton (age 40) was booked on the charges of Theft and Contributing to the Delinquency by the Mandeville Police Department.

James Stevens (age 46) was booked on the charges of Injuring Public Records and Contempt of Court by the Slidell Police Department.

Preston Butler (age 24) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, and Theft Less Than 1000 by the Slidell Police Department.

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

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 12, 2026

Christopher Magee (age 21 with Columbia, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Speeding 31-40 Over Limit, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, and No Proof of Insurance by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $850.00.

Allen Joseph Dupre (age 42 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm and Home Invasion With Force or Violence by the Louisiana State Police. Bond was set at $250000.00.

Elaina Dixon (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3 counts), Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II, and Driving Under Suspension by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Anthony Cornish (age 27 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Operation, and No Drivers License by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information incomplete at this time.

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

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure just offshore of eastern Mexico continues to produce some shower and thunderstorm activity.  While this system has become better organized since yesterday, marginal environmental conditions will probably prevent significant development before the low moves inland over eastern Mexico by Sunday. The system could re-emerge over the northwestern Gulf on Tuesday or Wednesday while interacting with a frontal boundary, but conditions there are also expected to be only marginally conducive for development. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 75. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Sunday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 4pm and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Increasing clouds, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Monday   A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 85. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon. 

Monday Night   A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 71. Calm wind.

Obituary

Glenda Faye Stewart

September 13, 1946 - June 9, 2026

WPSO Off Duty Officer Involved in Shooting - Deputy Terminated

UPDATE: Allen Joseph Dupre (aka Jay Dupre), age 42 with a Franklinton, La. address, was booked into the Washington Parish Jail today (June 12, 2026) on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm and Home Invasion With Force or Violence by the Louisiana State Police. Bond was set at $250000.00. 

Statement From Sheriff Jason Smith

On June 12, 2026 at approximately 1:36 a.m., the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office received a 911 call reporting gunshots on Bud Slocum Road in Franklinton. Responding deputies learned that Lieutenant Jay Dupre of our Criminal Patrol Division was among those involved. Lieutenant Dupre was off duty, out of uniform, and not operating an office vehicle at the time. No one was shot or injured.

Given the serious nature of the allegations, I requested that the Louisiana State Police conduct an independent criminal investigation. After reviewing the initial facts, I terminated Lieutenant Dupre's employment with the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office.

Deputies must conduct themselves professionally and lawfully, on duty and off. That standard does not bend for rank or years of service. 

Dupre served this office for 15 years, and that service was real. His conduct in this matter fell below the standard I expect, and I acted on it.

The criminal investigation is ongoing. All further questions should be directed to the Louisiana State Police, who will issue any additional comments.

Jason Smith

Washington Parish Sheriff

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 11, 2026

Lamont Tillison (age 52) was booked on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

David Sylvester (age 50) was booked on the charges of No Tag Displayed, Open Container in Motor Vehicle, No Taillights, Driving Under Suspension, Switched Plates, Criminal Sanctions for Operating Motor Vehicle Not Covered, Novelty or Unofficial Credentials Prohibited, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, and Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon by the Slidell Police Department.

Kelly Jenkins (age 61) was booked on
the charges of Bank Fraud, Access Device Fraud, and Theft by the Slidell Police Department.

Ammiel Carthen (age 18) was booked on the charge of Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms by the Slidell Police Department.

Kaden Plessala (age 18) was booked on the charge of Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms by the Slidell Police Department.

Melanie Pettingill (age 51) was booked on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Daniel Bedford (age 42) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Hope Obrien (age 45) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery 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.

Bowen McKathan (age 45) was booked on the charges of Violation of Protection Order (3 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Willie Miller (age 47) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Shawn Bagert (age 40) was booked on the charges of Fugitive (2 counts) by the Covington Police Department.

Christopher Williams (age 21) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile and Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor by Agency not listed.

Terrance Washington (age 44) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond (3 counts) and Contempt of Court by Bondsman.

Donald Lefevre (age 48) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.

Rashard Dobbins (age 48) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Criminal Damage by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Turquoise Gillum (age 45) was booked on the charge of Providing False Information to Law Enforcement by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Abdul Rasheed (age 20) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Self Mutilation by Prisoner, and Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee by the Slidell Police Department.

Daniel Smith (age 53) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

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

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 11, 2026

Rymeen Cavalier (age 33 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Criminal Trespass by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $2500.00.

Caleb Allen (age 24 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Distribution of Schedule I CDS by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $20000.00.

John Stallard (age 30 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Alex Chatagnier (age 40 with Houma, La. address) was booked on the charges of Stalking, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Criminal Trespass, and Sexual Acts Prohibited in Public by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Obituary

Billie Sue Wheat Alford

August 31, 1934 - June 11, 2026

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 75. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Saturday   Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Saturday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 75. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Sunday   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure has formed over the far southern Bay of Campeche and is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms. Environmental conditions are forecast to be only marginally conducive for development before the system moves inland over eastern Mexico late Saturday or Sunday.  The system could re-emerge over the northwestern Gulf on Tuesday and Wednesday while interacting with a frontal boundary, but there too, conditions are only expected to be marginally conducive for any development. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.

AG Murrill's Office arrests 24-year-old from Tickfaw for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material Under the Age of 13

Agents with Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill's Louisiana Bureau of Investigation arrested 24-year-old Chandler Matthew Sanderson of Tickfaw for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material Under the Age of 13.

Sanderson is reported to have searched for, saved and uploaded multiple files containing prepubescent child sexual abuse material (CSAM) to an online file storage platform. 

LBI agents initially got a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

Sanderson was arrested and booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on charges of: Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material under the Age of Thirteen - 6 counts

Both the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations assisted the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation on this case.

Sanderson's bond information is unknown at this time.

The investigation continues.

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

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 10, 2026

Stephen Hughes (age 73) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Justin Gill (age 45) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.

Tiffany Reine (age 48) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by Probation and Parole.

Anthony Dardar (age 30) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Covington Police Department.

Niya Cordier (age 47) was booked on
the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Scott Frischhertz (age 30) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule I (3 counts), Possession of Kratom, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS, Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule III CDS, Possession of Schedule IV, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription, Driving Under Suspension, and Expired License Plate by the Covington Police Department.

Carlos Rodriguez (age 41) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Marcus Stewart (age 33) was booked on the charges of Improper Turn, Expired License Plate, Driving Under Suspension, Criminal Sanctions for Operating Motor Vehicle Not Covered, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II, and Windshields Required by the Slidell Police Department.

Derell Brock (age 22) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency Not Listed.

Jeremy Beam (age 43) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Covington Police Department.

Xavier Porter (age 34) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Habitual Offender Law/Sentences for Second and Subsequent by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Dennis Parker (age 53) was booked on the charge of Domestic Violence Battery by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Kedrin Norman (age 28) was booked on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear, Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles/Display of Plate, Possession of Schedule I, and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Ryan Brown (age 18) was booked on the charge of Resisting an Officer by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

David Wheeler (age 41) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Covington Police Department.

Claude Montecino (age 38) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Alysia Migliore (age 51) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Keristynn Sylve (age 24) was booked on the charges of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon, Possession of Schedule I, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Illegal Carrying of Weapon During Crime of Violence by the Slidell Police Department.

George Stegeman (age 72) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Latasha Foster (age 44) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Exploitation of the Infirmed by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Steven Lucia (age 40) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court by Agency Not Listed.

Lamichael Jackson (age 27) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency Not Listed.

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

Obituary

Margaret Turnage 

April 21, 1930 – June 10, 2026

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 9-10, 2026

Patrick Creel (age 21 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond information is not available.

Royneilous Carr (age 32 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight From An Officer, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Determination of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $150000.00.

Blake Nielson (age 29 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Obstruction of Court Orders and Intimidation/Simple Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Phoenix Martin (age 22 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $15000.00.

Dionell Howard (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Tyren Knox (age 19 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Quovadis Bickham (age 20 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Markees Young (age 21 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Dianne Baumert (age 69 with Bush, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Simple Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Demetria Haller (age 31 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Battery of Infirm and Domestic Violence Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Ashton Mizell (age 17 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Criminal Damage to Property by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Dustin Davis (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Prohibited Acts, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Reminder: Look Before You Lock!

🥵 It will be hot this weekend with heat indices well into the 100s. Even on a mild 70°F day, the interior of a vehicle can exceed 100°F in minutes.  Never leave a child or pet in a parked car, even for a "quick minute".

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

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Friday   Patchy fog before 7am. Otherwise, mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 74. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Saturday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 75. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Tropical Disturbances Today

A broad area of low pressure is likely to form over the Bay of Campeche on Friday from a westward-moving tropical wave currently located over the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico.  Environmental conditions are forecast to be only marginally conducive for development before the system moves inland over eastern Mexico late Saturday or Sunday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.

Obituary

Dr. James Hilary Cody

July 25, 1942 - June 7, 2026

St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for June 9, 2026

Roy White (age 44) was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of a Place of Business, Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule I, Drug Paraphernalia, Contempt of Court (2 counts), and Criminal Trespass by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Brenda Cosgrove (age 35) was booked on the charges of Taking Contraband to and from a Penal Institution, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription, Drug Paraphernalia, Unsecured Load, and Possession of Schedule II by the Slidell Police Department.

Christene Courtney (age 42) was
booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

David Dansereau (age 66) was booked on the charge of Child Sexual Abuse Materials by the Covington Police Department.

Dandrick Green (age 25) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Louisiana State Police.

Trellis Taylor (age 43) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

April Mathis (age 37) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Julie Childress (age 36) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Dondra McMooain (age 31) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Mandeville Police Department.

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

Jerry Johnson (age 39) was booked on the charges of Housed for Court and Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Ryan Mizell (age 36) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Daimon Bush (age 43) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Gino Catalanotto (age 39) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Ryan Lich (age 28) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile, Indecent Behavior/Grooming of a Child, and Computer Aided Solicitation of a Minor by the Covington Police Department.

Michael Rotherham (age 35) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the 22nd Judicial Court.

Charles Croon (age 45) was booked on the charge of Housed for Court by Agency Not Listed.

Jason Courtney (age 37) was booked on the charges of Arson With Intent to Defraud and Prohibited Activities and Sanctions by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.

Christopher Boykins (age 59) was booked on the charge of Theft of Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by the Pearl River Police Department.

Jeremiah Allen (age 21) was booked on the charges of First Degree Murder, Armed Robbery, Attempted Armed Robbery, and Illegal Carrying of Weapons by the Slidell Police Department.

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

Obituary

George Oliver Cole, Sr.

February 5, 1937 — June 1, 2026

Slidell Man Arrested on 500 Counts of Child Sexual Abuse Material and 50 Counts of Sexual Abuse of Animal

District Attorney J. Collin Sims announced that on June 9, 2026, David Dansereau, age 66 and a resident of Slidell, was arrested following a May 13, 2026 cybertip from the Louisiana Attorney General's Office that led to the discovery of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM). 

Members of the Special Victims Unit Task Force, to include the Covington Police Department, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI), and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), executed an arrest warrant at Dansereau's residence. A forensic examination of his electronic devices revealed evidence of CSAM involving children under the age of 13. During a subsequent interview with investigators, Dansereau admitted to possessing the illegal material.

Dansereau was arrested and booked on the following charges:

• 500 counts:  Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material (Victims Under the Age of 13) (Felony)

• 50 counts: Sexual Abuse of an Animal (Felony)

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

If convicted, Dansereau faces a sentencing range of 10 to 40 years in prison per count.

District Attorney Collin Sims issued the following statement: “The safety of our children is at the core of our mission, and we will deploy every resource available to protect them. The swift action by our Special Victims Unit Task Force prevented this individual from continuing to exploit children. This seamless collaboration among our local, state, and federal partners sends an unmistakable message: if you prey on children, whether in person or behind a digital screen, we will find you, and we will hold you fully accountable under the law.”

Chief Michael Ferrell of the Covington Police Department added: “This arrest should serve as a warning to anyone who believes the internet offers them anonymity. It doesn’t. Behind every one of these images is a real child who was harmed, and that’s what drives our investigators every single day. I’m proud of the work our officers did alongside the District Attorney’s Office and our local/state and federal partners, and we won’t slow down.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges or arrests may be forthcoming. 

Pearl River Area Traffic Stop Leads to 8 Arrests

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reports today (June 10, 2026) that eight people were arrested after a drug distribution operation was uncovered at a Slidell residence following a traffic stop on June 2, 2026. Detectives with the STPSO's Narcotics Division conducted the traffic stop on a tan Lincoln Town Car in the Pearl River area. A search of the vehicle and its occupants resulted in the discovery of a large quantity of narcotics and drug paraphernalia. At that time, three Slidell residents were arrested: 57-year-old Kelvin Rushing, 39-year-old Jessica Sonnier, and 65-year-old Robert Lewis.

Detectives then obtained a search warrant for the residence shared by Rushing and Sonnier in the 37000 block of 10th Street in Slidell.

Detectives located and seized approximately 34.95 grams of powder cocaine, 59.52 grams of methamphetamine, 2.64 grams of marijuana, 48.97 grams of crack cocaine, and 5.43 grams of fentanyl from the residence, vehicle, and individuals involved. Detectives also recovered multiple plastic bags commonly used for packaging narcotics, a digital scale, baking soda, glass cookware commonly used in the manufacture of crack cocaine, various items of drug paraphernalia, a ledger containing information related to the sale of narcotics, and $1,875 in cash.

In total, eight subjects, several of whom were found to be on active supervision with Louisiana Probation and Parole, were arrested and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.

Kelvin Rushing was booked on the charges of Proceeds of Transactions Involving Drug Offenses, Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance (4 counts), Distribution of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Obstruction of Justice, and Operation/Creation of a Clandestine Laboratory.

Jessica Sonnier was booked on the charges of Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance (4 counts), Distribution of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Obstruction of Justice, and Operation/Creation of a Clandestine Laboratory. 

Robert Lewis was booked on the charges of Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance (4 counts), Distribution of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession with the Intent to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Jerry Sonnier was booked on the charges of Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance, Operation/Creation of a Clandestine Laboratory, Obstruction of Justice, and  Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts).

Toni McGehee was booked on the charges of Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts).

Brooke Naquin was booked on the charges of Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts).

Terry Bickham was booked on the charges of Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts).

Debroxton Warren was booked on the charges of Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts).

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