Destiny Marie Matran
October 17, 2009 - April 27, 2026
April 30, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 29, 2026
Christopher Labit (age 39) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Battery of a Police Officer, Simple Assault, Gross Littering Prohibited, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Threatening a Public Official by the Covington Police Department.
Jamon Mingo (age 33) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Marissa Jenkins (age 41) was booked on the charges of Illegal Possession of Stolen Things 1000 to Less Than ... and Driving Under Suspension by the Covington Police Department.
Erick Miller (age 32) was booked on the charges of Theft 1000-5000, Possession of Schedule II (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III, Possession of Schedule IV (2 counts), Illegal Carrying of Weapon During Crime of Violence or While ..., Possession of Kratom, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drug Without Prescription or Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Raheem Harris (age 26) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Joseph Taranto (age 24) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 and Illegal Carrying of Weapon During Crime of Violence or While ... by the Slidell Police Department.
Tyree Allen (age 21) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Battery and Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Trinh Phung (age 57) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Criminal Trespass by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Eric Walder (age 47) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II (3 counts), Improper Turn, Illegal Window Tint, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
William Holley (age 36) was booked on the charge of Court Sanction by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Dennis Chatman (age 44) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Agency Not Listed.
Bobby Dorsey (age 60) was booked on the charges of Bank Fraud, Illegal Possession of Stolen Things Less Than 1000, and Theft Less Than 1000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Michael Bishop (age 35) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Quinnita Young (age 37) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer and Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Derrick Pichon (age 53) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Flight from Officer, and Improper Lane Usage by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Barbara Taylor (age 51) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace, Obscenity, Simple Criminal Damage Less Than 1000, Criminal Mischief, Resisting an Officer, Simple Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce, and Indecent Behavior With a Juvenile by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Rebecca Arnold (age 62) was booked on the charges of Fugitive and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Mandeville Police Department.
David Silberman (age 58) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Jessica Roberts (age 54) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty**
Spring Squirrel Hunting Season Opens May 2nd
The Louisiana spring squirrel hunting season begins Saturday (May 2) and runs through May 24, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) announced. Squirrel hunting is the perfect gateway for hunting and a great introduction for youth into the sport.
A basic hunting license is all that is needed to hunt squirrels and those 17 and under are not required to have a youth license to hunt squirrels. Squirrel hunting is relatively inexpensive and there are many LDWF public lands on which hunting opportunity is available. Louisiana has two species of squirrels; gray and fox squirrels.
The bag limit is three per day during the spring with a possession limit of nine.
Spring squirrel season is closed on the Kisatchie National Forest, some national wildlife refuges, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property and some state WMAs. For a complete list of WMAs and public lands open to squirrel hunting and more information on WMA squirrel hunting, see the 2025-26 LDWF Hunting regulations.
To purchase a hunting license, see the LDWF license webpage.
All visitors to LDWF WMAs must have either a WMA Access Permit, Senior Hunting/Fishing License, Louisiana Sportsman’s Paradise License or Lifetime Hunting/Fishing License. See the LDWF WMA Access Permit webpage for more information.
For more information on squirrel hunting in Louisiana, see the LDWF Small Game webpage or contact LDWF Small Game/Wild Turkey Program Manager Cody Cedotal at ccedotal@wlf.la.gov.
Safe Haven Baby Box Coming to Franklinton
The Town of Franklinton is on the way to having the 3rd Baby Box in Louisiana!! 🙌🏻❤️
If you are interested in donating to the install of the Baby Box, scan the QR code in the picture or Click Here. All donations go directly to the Franklinton Fire Department to help install the Baby Box!!
Safe Haven Baby Boxes offer a compassionate and secure option for mothers in crisis who are unable to care for their newborns. Designed with innovative safety features and installed on the exterior walls of fire stations and hospitals, each box ensures the safe and anonymous surrender of infants. The exterior door locks automatically when a newborn is placed inside, and an interior door allows medical personnel to promptly and securely retrieve the baby, ensuring immediate care and protection. Safe Haven Baby Boxes are a vital resource, providing a lifeline for mothers and a safe beginning for their newborns.
Suspect Sought in Fluker Scrap Yard Burglary
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help identifying and locating a suspect accused of breaking into the Highway 51 Scrap Metal business located in the 65000 block of U.S. 51 in the Fluker area
In the overnight hours of Monday (April 27, 2026), surveillance video shows a man stealing a gun and money. He is also seen taking pictures of business files. The suspect is wearing a hooded pullover. The individual is seen driving northbound on Highway 51 from the property in a 2007 silver Chevy Tahoe with Louisiana license plate 113 KAJ.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who this suspect is, and/or their whereabouts, to contact our Criminal Investigations Division at 985-748-3332. 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.
Pearl River Man Gets Life Sentence for Stabbing
District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on April 29, 2026, Joshua Michael Delaughter, age 32 and of Pearl River, was sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. The mandatory life sentence was handed down by the Honorable Richard A. Swartz following Delaughter's adjudication as a multiple felony offender, as his prior criminal history involved violent crimes. The sentencing follows a January 2026 jury conviction of Attempted Second Degree Murder.
Click here for two previous related stories
The charges stemmed from a violent incident on August 13, 2023, at North Beach on Carr Drive in Slidell, Louisiana. The victim was stabbed eight times in the head, neck, and torso after a minor verbal dispute regarding a near-vehicular collision. Evidence presented at trial showed that the victim had merely tapped on Delaughter’s vehicle to alert him of a potential accident before Delaughter exited his car and initiated the life-threatening attack.
Under Louisiana’s Habitual Offender Statute, the state established Delaughter’s status as a triple offender, which necessitated the mandatory life sentence.
DA Sims praised the finality of the sentence, emphasizing the office's stance on recidivism and violent crime. “Today’s sentence ensures that a dangerous, repeat offender will never again have the opportunity to victimize our community,” DA Sims said. “The victim in this case nearly lost his life over a trivial parking lot disagreement. This type of senseless violence, especially from someone with a documented history of felony behavior, warrants the maximum penalty allowed by law. We remain steadfast in our mission to hold violent criminals fully accountable.”
The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Christina Fisher and Shelby Stoop. At trial, ADA Fisher successfully argued that the sheer number and location of the stab wounds - eight in total—demonstrated a clear intent to kill that far exceeded any claim of self-defense.
Delaughter was remanded to the custody of the Louisiana Department of Corrections to begin serving his life term immediately.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 9am and then after 5pm. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Northeast wind around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 57. Northeast wind around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 10am. Patchy fog after 9am. High near 65. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Friday Night A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Patchy fog before midnight. Low around 52. Northeast wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Saturday A 20 percent chance of showers before 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 69. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 45. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light after midnight.
April 29, 2026
Supreme Court: La.'s Map Creating a Second Majority-Black District is Unconstitutional.
The United States Supreme Court has issued a historic decision related to the Voting Rights Act and sided with Attorney General Murrill's Office in Louisiana v. Callais. A 6-3 court ruled that Louisiana's map creating a second majority-Black district, which federal courts forced Louisiana to draw, is unconstitutional.
"We win in Louisiana v. Callais! The Supreme Court has ended Louisiana’s long-running nightmare of federal courts coercing the state to draw a racially discriminatory map. That was always unconstitutional—and this is a seismic decision reaffirming equal protection under our nation’s laws. I vigorously defended our first map and said then that the only way to draw a second majority-minority district was to expressly take race into account. We raised our objections at that time to racial gerrymandering, but the district court and the Fifth Circuit directed us to draw the map anyway. It is gratifying that the Supreme Court has finally vindicated our original position and, in doing so, clarified that only under very narrow circumstances—where there is proof of intentional discrimination—may race be used as a remedy under Section 2. It is frustrating that this has taken five years, millions of dollars, and many lost hours to get here. I will continue to work with the Governor and the Legislature to provide guidance as we move forward to adopt a constitutionally compliant map," said Attorney General Murrill.
Madisonville-Area Man Arrested Following Road Rage Incident
The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reports that a Madisonville-area man, 29-year-old Matthew Swire, was arrested Tuesday (April 28, 2026) afternoon following a road rage incident on U.S. Highway 190 near the Interstate 12 westbound ramp.
Swire was traveling southbound on Highway 190 shortly before 5 p.m. when he intentionally rammed another vehicle. After striking the victim’s vehicle, Swire exited his vehicle, approached the victim, and attempted to gain entry by pulling on the door handles. During the encounter, he also uttered racial slurs and repeatedly struck the victim’s vehicle, causing additional damage.
When deputies arrived on scene, Swire resisted arrest by kicking a deputy and intentionally grabbing the deputy’s genitalia.
Swire was taken into custody and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center on the charges of Criminal Damage (Misdemeanor) - 2 counts, Simple Assault (Misdemeanor), Reckless Operation of a Vehicle (Misdemeanor), Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence (Felony), Sexual Battery (Felony), Battery of a Police Officer (Felony), Aggravated Battery (Felony), Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property (Felony), Hate Crimes (Felony), No Insurance, and No Seatbelt.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty**
“Violence and hate-fueled behavior have no place in our community,” said Sheriff Randy Smith. “I commend our deputies for their swift response and professionalism in safely taking this individual into custody. We will continue to hold those who engage in this type of reckless and aggressive behavior fully accountable.”
Bogalusa Man Faces 40 Years to Life for Fentanyl Trafficking
District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on Wednesday, April 29, 2026, a St. Tammany Parish jury found 48-year-old James Spikes, Jr., of Bogalusa, Louisiana, guilty of felony charges related to narcotics trafficking and illegal weapon possession. Following a trial before the Honorable Judge Scott Gardner, Spikes was convicted of Possession with Intent to distribute 28 grams or more but less than 250 grams of Fentanyl and carrying a Concealed Weapon (brass knuckles) by a Person Convicted of Certain Felonies.
The case originated from a proactive enforcement operation on August 18, 2024, along the Highway 36 corridor in Covington, Louisiana. Deputy Alexander Kitch of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Spikes. During the stop, deputies recovered brass knuckles and a pocketknife from Spikes’ person. A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a backpack containing a concealed container with 963 fentanyl pills, totaling approximately 135 grams.
Click here for a previous related story
DA Sims praised the work of the trial team and law enforcement, stating, "Fentanyl is a poison that continues to threaten the safety of our families and our community. This defendant was trafficking a significant quantity of these deadly pills while armed with brass knuckles – an illegal weapon in the hands of a convicted felon. My office remains committed to aggressively prosecuting those who bring these dangerous substances into our district."
Assistant District Attorneys Gary Tromblay and Jay Adair prosecuted the case. During the trial, the State presented undercover videos as evidence of the defendant's involvement in narcotics distribution. In one of the recordings shown to the jury, Spikes was heard boasting that he could obtain as many as 30,000 fentanyl pills.
During closing arguments, the prosecution emphasized the scale of the operation and the danger the defendant posed to the community. ADA Adair challenged the defense's characterization of the evidence, stating, "We're dealing with thousands of pills with a street value of thousands of dollars. It defies reason and common sense to accept ownership of something innocuous, like a speaker box, and deny something else right where he's sitting. He was in dominion and control of that vehicle."
ADA Adair further addressed the concealed weapons, asking the jury, "Are the brass knuckles a weapon? I would submit to you...The argument that he was carrying around a paperweight...that argument carries as much weight as paper itself."
ADA Tromblay highlighted the direct evidence linking Spikes to the narcotics, noting that undercover buy videos showed the defendant boasting about the "blues" (fentanyl pills) he sold. "The dope fairy didn't put that in the car...he put it in the car. The backpack was found directly behind the driver's seat," Tromblay stated. "Trial is a search for the truth - we're not here to deceive or trick you or make a fictitious story. Who carries a paperweight in their pocket? Especially when they're trafficking 963 fentanyl pills."
The case was investigated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, with the assistance of the Louisiana State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Judge Scott Gardner has scheduled sentencing for May 5, 2026. As a multi-convicted felon, Spikes faces forty years to life in prison.
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Establishing a Lawn, Part 2: Soil Preparation, Planting, and Post-Planting Care
Regardless of whether you plan to seed, sod, plug, or sprig (the last method will not be discussed in detail here) there are certain things to do prior to planting turfgrass.
Before establishing a new lawn, existing vegetation should be killed. This can be done in one of several ways. A non-selective herbicide such as one containing glyphosate or glufosinate and labeled for use in lawn areas is one option. Be sure to follow label instructions when using any herbicide.
Mechanical destruction and solarization are other options for destroying existing vegetation.
Following your soil test report, spread any recommended lime or sulfur (if applicable) and nutrients, except nitrogen. Depending on what fertilizers are available, it may be hard to get other nutrients you need without nitrogen. Including up to 1 pound nitrogen per 1000 square feet in this pre-plant application is okay, but some of it will be lost before the grass is able to use it.
Till the soil to a depth of 4 to 6 inches, incorporating the amendments. Soil should be tilled even if no amendments are needed. Remember to contact Louisiana 811 and have them mark utility lines before you till to avoid unpleasant surprises.
Remove debris with a rake, and make any adjustments needed for adequate drainage. Once soil has been contoured, using a roller can help keep it in place.
With enough care, sod and plugs can be installed year-round, but better establishment is expected between April and September for sod and between April and August for plugs.
Warm-season grasses can be seeded between March and July. When done between mid-April and early June, soil temperatures are likely to be warm enough for fast germination, and spring rains can help get grass established.
Wait to pick up sod or have it delivered when you’re ready to install it. Place edges of sod pieces snugly against each other. Arrange them so that the seams between pieces in one row do not line up with seams in the next row but are staggered in a brick-like pattern.
Plugs can be purchased pre-cut, cut from squares of sod, or transplanted from established parts of your own lawn. Plugs should be at least 2 inches wide. Recommended plug spacing for centipedegrass, zoysiagrass, and bermudagrass is 6 to 12 inches, while that for St. Augustinegrass is 12 to 14 inches.
Suggested rates (per 1000 square feet) of pure live seed are as follows: 5 to 10 pounds bahiagrass, 0.75 to 1 pound common bermudagrass, 1 to 2 pounds carpetgrass, 0.5 to 1 pound centipedegrass, and 1 to 2 pounds zoysiagrass seed.
Note that the above rates are of pure live seed (PLS). Seed sources should provide information about percent purity and percent germination. Rates should take these into account. For example, if the bag says that seed is 75% pure and has an 80% germination rate, and you want to apply it at a rate of 1 pound PLS per 1000 square feet, you’d need to use 1.7 pounds (1 / [0.75 x 0.8]) of seed per 1000 square feet.
Using a drop or broadcast spreader, spread half of the seed while moving in one direction and half while traveling crosswise, for good coverage.
Irrigate frequently in the absence of rain for the first 10 to 14 days after sod or plug planting, or until seedlings emerge in seeded areas. Then, transition to less frequent watering so that grass will start to grow roots deeper into the soil.
Apply fertilizer at a rate of 0.5 pound of nitrogen per 1000 square feet after sod or plugs have established roots, about 1 to 2 months after planting. For seeded lawns, fertilize at that rate 10 to 14 days after seedlings emerge. Additional fertilizer can be applied later in the growing season (no later than the end of August, generally) if grass is established early in the season.
Try to avoid disturbing the newly seeded, sodded, or plugged area. Wait until sod or plugs have become established and blades have begun to grow to begin mowing. As usual, mow at a height recommended for the respective turfgrass, and avoid removing more than one-third of the length of grass blades at one time.
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).
Body Found in Canal in Tickfaw Area
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) is investigating the discovery of a body in a canal in the Tickfaw area.
At around 7 p.m. on Monday (April 27, 2026), two boys fishing in a canal at the intersection of Stafford Road and Pravata Lane reported seeing a body in the water. When deputies arrived, what appeared to be the decomposed remains of an adult male were retrieved from the waterway.
Following an autopsy Tuesday (April 28, 2026) morning, the victim was identified as 38-year-old Brandon McKay of Tickfaw. Preliminary results do not indicate any signs of trauma. Toxicology testing is pending.
The TPSO is asking anyone with information about this incident to contact TPSO’s Criminal Investigations Division at 985-902-2008. If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! Tips submitted directly through Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.
16-Year-Old Killed, Driver Injured in Bogalusa Crash
On April 27, 2026, at 9:30 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L were requested by the Bogalusa Police Department to investigate a single-vehicle crash on West 9th Street and Avenue G in Washington Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 16-year-old Destiny M. Matran of Bogalusa.
The preliminary investigation revealed that officers with the Bogalusa Police Department attempted to stop a 2004 Nissan 350Z for a traffic violation. The driver of the Nissan refused to stop, and a pursuit ensued. While fleeing from officers, the Nissan exited the roadway and struck a utility pole.
The driver, who was unrestrained, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. Matran, who was also unrestrained, suffered fatal injuries and died on the scene. This crash remains under investigation, and Troopers will forward their findings to the 22nd Judicial District Court District Attorney’s Office for consultation regarding potential charges.
Fleeing from law enforcement puts lives at risk and often leads to tragic consequences. Troopers urge all motorists to comply with lawful orders and stop when directed by police. Making the decision to flee can turn a traffic stop into a life-threatening situation for everyone involved. While not all crashes are survivable, wearing a seatbelt greatly reduces the chances of being killed or seriously injured in a crash. Troopers urge all drivers to make smart choices every time they get behind the wheel.
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 28, 2026
Samantha Deakles (age 38) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
Austin Morgan (age 30) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule 1, Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the Slidell Police Department.
Jayquwan Twillie (age 33) was booked on the charges of Attempted Armed Robbery and Aggravated Kidnapping by the Slidell Police Department.
Earl Pradat (age 60) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Mandeville Police Department.
Joshua Lacoste (age 51) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Dawn Walker (age 46) was booked on the charges of Improper Turn, Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of Persons Under ..., and Possession of Schedule II by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Michael Pete (age 49) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of Persons Under ... by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Bruce Bruno (age 47) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II, Possession of Schedule III, and Improper Turn by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Matthew Swire (age 29) was booked on the charges of Simple Criminal Damage to Property, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Sexual Battery, Battery of a Police Officer, Aggravated Battery, Simple Assault, Aggravated Criminal Damage, Hate Crimes, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, No Proof of Insurance, and No Safety Belts by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Leon Faciane (age 70) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Willie Cauley (age 48) was booked on the charge of Filing a False Lien Against a Law Enforcement or Court Officer by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Jade Parfait (age 27) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Lateisha Foster (age 33) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Driving Under Suspension, Criminal Sanctions for Operating Motor Vehicle Not Covered by ..., and Violations of Registration Provisions by the Mandeville Police Department.
Harriet Lee (age 47) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Slidell Police Department.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty**
Slidell Man Found Guilty for Filing Fraudulent Lien Against Law Enforcement Officer
District Attorney Collin Sims announce late Tuesday (April 28, 2026) that a St. Tammany Parish jury found 48-year-old Willie Mack Cauley of Slidell guilty of Filing a False Lien Against a Law Enforcement Officer. The trial was held before the Honorable Judge Tara Farris Zeller. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Taylor Nicholson and Iain Dover.
The conviction follows an investigation led by Sergeant John Morse, formerly of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, who also served with the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force. In October 2020, the St. Tammany Parish Clerk of Court received documents from Cauley, including a UCC Financing Statement Amendment and an "Affidavit of Status as Secured Party and Creditor."
These documents targeted a law enforcement officer in St. Tammany Parish who had previously arrested Cauley in the performance of his official duties. The filings falsely listed the victim as a "debtor" and claimed a "Perfected" $505,000,000.00 commercial lien against him. Investigators determined the filings were rooted in "sovereign citizen" ideology - a tactic used to retaliate against government officials through "paper terrorism" and fraudulent financial encumbrances.
During closing arguments, Assistant District Attorney Taylor Nicholson emphasized that the defendant's actions were a deliberate attempt to harass a public servant. "Willie Cauley violated the law. It does not matter what type of lien or encumbrance was filed. Any kind is a violation of the law," Nicholson told the jury. "Willie Cauley did this in retaliation for the victim acting in his law enforcement capacity. The defendant made his own judicial determination. He knowingly did this...knowing it was fake, fraudulent, and fictitious."
District Attorney Collin Sims praised the verdict, highlighting the office's stance against the harassment of law enforcement. "Law enforcement officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our community, and they should never be subjected to targeted harassment or financial retaliation for simply doing their jobs," said District Attorney Collin Sims. "Filing fraudulent liens is a calculated attempt to intimidate those who uphold the law. This conviction sends a clear message: we will not allow our legal system to be weaponized as a tool for retaliation against our officers."
Sentencing is set for May 12, 2026, before Judge Zeller.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 5pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming southwest 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. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Calm wind. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Thursday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. Northeast wind around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 58. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
Friday A 70 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Cloudy, with a high near 69. East wind 5 to 10 mph.
Friday Night A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 53. North wind around 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
April 28, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 27, 2026
Eric Cook (age 63) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
William Mateo (age 23) was booked on the charge of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ceion Brock (age 53) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery and Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ernie Rolling (age 48) was booked on the charges of Fugitive (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
James Gillam (age 43) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Burglary, Aggravated Assault With Firearm (2 counts), and Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon by the 22nd Judicial Court.
Chandler Kervin (age 30) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Contempt of Court by Probation and Parole.
James Singletary (age 36) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Bruce Larie (age 35) was booked on the charges of Illegal Possession of Stolen Things Less Than 1000, Driver Must Be Licensed, Violations of Registration Provisions, and Fugitive by the Covington Police Department.
Richard Stephens (age 61) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Barry Castaneda (age 61) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Prohibited Acts/Schedule III, Careless Operation, and Open Container in Motor Vehicle by the Slidell Police Department.
Keyona Tassin (age 44) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tyler Plaisance (age 30) 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 April 27, 2026
Sidney Seal (age 87 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of 1st Degree Rape With Victim Under 13 YOA by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $350000.00.
Brittney Campbell (age 33 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.
Cory Dillon (age 38 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Unlawful Presence of a Sex Offender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Chance Turner (age 22 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Damage to Property, Battery of a Dating Partner, and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Samuel Thomas (age 71 with Bush, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Obstruction of Commerce/Roadway, Hit and Run, Expired Drivers License, and Aggravated Flight From an Officer by the Bogalusa Police Department. 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 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms between 8pm and 9pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Wednesday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning.
Wednesday Night A 60 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 79. Northeast wind around 5 mph.
Thursday Night A 60 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 60. East wind around 5 mph.
April 27, 2026
Slidell Man Gets Nearly 10 Years in Prison for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse Material
Jonathan Suarez, age 30 and a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced on April 21, 2026 to 118 months in prison by Chief United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter, after previously pleading guilty to receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM), announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle. In addition to the prison term, Chief Judge Vitter sentenced Suarez to eight (8) years of supervised release after his term of imprisonment and payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Suarez will also be required to register as a sex offender and pay $42,000 in restitution to the victims of his crime.
According to the court documents, beginning in early 2024, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agents investigated the purchase of files depicting the sexual exploitation of children over the internet. The investigation revealed that Suarez sent, and attempted to send, money via CashApp to accounts known to be used for the primary purpose of receiving funds in exchange for the transmission of CSAM on at least six occasions between February 2023 and August 2023. On April 10, 2025, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at Suarez’s residence, at which time they seized his Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max. A forensic review of the phone identified at least 186 images and 853 videos, some as long as over 49 minutes, depicting the sexual victimization of children. The review also determined that Suarez downloaded, saved, and maintained his collection of CSAM on multiple dates between February 2023 and April 2025. Suarez saved the files in approximately 145 custom-made file folders with representative names describing the content. Some of the child victims depicted in the materials received were children as young as approximately two years old.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Criminal Division, is in charge of the prosecution.
AG Murrill’s LBI Arrests Slidell Couple for Defrauding Medicaid Program of Nearly $135,000
Attorney General Liz Murrill’s Louisiana Bureau of Investigation (LBI) arrested a Slidell couple for
defrauding Louisiana's Medicaid program of nearly $135,000.
The LBI received a criminal referral from Louisiana Department of Health (LDH) regarding allegations that 36-year-old Phuc and 34-year old Tran Pham, of Marais River Drive in Slidell, both Medicaid recipients, had intentionally underreported their income for purposes to receive Medicaid benefits. During this investigation, LBI agents learned that in the period between March 2022 and August 2025, Phuc and Tran Pham presented false information by failing to accurately report their marital status and true household income. As a result, the Pham’s defrauded the Medicaid program of nearly $135,000.
On April 23, 2026, LBI agents arrested Phuc Pham and Tran Pham pursuant to arrest warrants issued by the 19th Judicial District Court on charges of Government Benefits Fraud and Filing False Public Records.
The couple was booked without incident at the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison. Their bond information is unknown. The investigation continues.
Franklinton Mayor & Board of Aldermen Agenda Tuesday
The Franklinton Mayor & Board of Aldermen will meet Tuesday (April 28, 2026) evening at 6:00 PM. The meeting will be livestreamed at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv
On the Agenda are
- The Board will hold a public meeting on the ordinance to update the zoning ordinance including the new zoning map.
- The Board will vote on a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Committee to change a portion of Main Street between Dobson Street and Alford Street from residential to commercial.
- Thomas Mitchell from the Children’s Advocacy Center will address the Mayor and the Board.
- The Board will review and award a contract to dredge the boat launch.
- The Board will review and award a contract to repair the road to the boat launch.
- The Board will vote to use the $295,500 grant awarded by the state for the river front recreation area.
Toddler Dies Following Drowning
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office reported today (April 27, 2026) that a 22-month-old from Iowa state, in town visiting family, has died following a drowning in a neighborhood pond near Loranger.
Around 7 p.m., a 911 call reported the little boy had been missing from a home on Bradley Court for about 30 minutes. A few minutes later, family members called back to report they had located the child in the neighborhood pond behind the home and they were performing CPR. As TPSO deputies and firefighters got to the scene, they continued life-saving measures until Airmed arrived to take the child to an area hospital. Unfortunately, the toddler did not survive.
While the investigation into this tragic incident is ongoing, Sheriff Gerald Sticker is asking the public to join him in prayer for this family, but also reminding the public about child wandering and drowning prevention tips.
The TPSO advises always securing exterior doors with door handle covers or other safety-type locks as well as entry/exit alerts or alarms. It is also recommended to have young children start traditional swimming lessons, or survival swim classes, as early as six months old. Lastly, everyone is encouraged to receive CPR training, often offered for free, through various community organizations like the American Red Cross.
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 26, 2026
Donivan Carter (age 26) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Child Endangerment and Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear (8 counts) by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Kevin Napoleon (age 33) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery (2nd Offense) by the Slidell Police Department.
Brandi Faul (age 33) was booked on the charges of Surrender of Defendant/Bondsman Off Bond and Contempt of Court by Bondsman.
Kimble Otis (age 42) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Carol Nunez (age 60) was booked on the charges of Prohibited Acts/Schedule II and Theft by the Mandeville Police Department.
Austin Grant (age 32) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault Upon a Dating Partner by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Samantha Landry (age 31) was booked on the charge of Resisting an Officer by Refusing to Identify by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Dawn Davis (age 46) was booked on the charges of Operating a Vehicle While Intoxicated, Resisting an Officer, and Improper Lane Usage by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Sharon Gray (age 56) was booked on the charges of DWI and Careless Operation by the Louisiana State Police.
William Laplante (age 34) was booked on the charges of Careless Operation and DWI by the Louisiana State Police.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty**
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 26, 2026
John Chain (age 40 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts) and Failure to Use Turn Signal by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $30000.00.
Johnnie Hudson (age 61 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Griffin Locatto (age 18 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Possession of Alcohol/Person Under 21, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, and Simple Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Tonious Anders (age 28 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
RCC Inmate Gets 20 Years Sentence / Threw Scalding Water on Sleeping Inmate
District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on April 22, 2026, Carrington Jackson, 34, of Angie, Louisiana, was sentenced to 20 years with the Department of Corrections after pleading guilty to Aggravated Second Degree Battery. Jackson was adjudicated as a fourth-time felony offender. Assistant District Attorney Iain Dover prosecuted the case.
The charges stem from an incident on April 23, 2025, at the Rayburn Correctional Center (RCC). During a routine security round in one of the housing units, a cadet observed Jackson approach the bunk of a fellow inmate who was asleep. Jackson then threw a scalding liquid from a bowl onto the victim’s face.
A subsequent investigation by RCC leadership and internal investigators included a review of surveillance footage. The video captured Jackson filling a bowl from a hot water dispenser and heating it in a microwave for approximately three minutes immediately before the assault. The victim suffered third-degree burns and required transportation to an outside medical facility for specialized treatment.
The state relayed a message on behalf of the victim during the proceedings before the Honorable Judge Alan A. Zaunbrecher. Despite the severity of the injuries sustained, the victim requested that the defendant know that he was "praying for him."
"This violent and premeditated attack on a defenseless individual is unacceptable," District Attorney Collin Sims said. "We remain committed to ensuring that all individuals, including those within our correctional facilities, are held accountable for acts of aggravated violence."
The District Attorney’s Office would like to extend its gratitude to the staff at Rayburn Correctional Center for their swift response and cooperation, specifically Warden Keith Bickham and Major Jacob Wascom with the RCC Investigations Division.
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 89. South wind 5 to 15 mph.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tuesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 88. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 89. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning.
Wednesday Night A 60 percent chance of showers likely and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. West wind around 5 mph becoming north after midnight.
April 26, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 25, 2026
Michael Gobert (age 41) was booked on the charges of Improper Turn, Proper Equipment Required on
Vehicles/Display of Plate, and Possession of Schedule 1 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ryan Bolton (age 20) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the Pearl River Police Department.
Tristan Brown (age 20) was booked on the charge of Violation of Protection Order by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Michael Albert (age 42) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Tobi Doherty (age 72) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Illegal Carrying of Weapon During Crime of Violence or While ... by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Ryan Bolotte (age 32) was booked on the charges of Operating While Intoxicated (2nd Offense) and Improper Lane Use by the Louisiana State Police.
Tyre Gordon (age 23) was booked on the charge of Fugitive by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christopher Young (age 26) was booked on the charges of Fugitive, Contempt of Court (3 counts), and Theft of a Motor Vehicle by the Covington Police Department.
Tyren Batiste (age 20) was booked on the charge of Possession of Firearm or Carrying Concealed Weapon by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Michael Miranda (age 45) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Holton Manuel (age 32) was booked on the charges of Battery of a Dating Partner/Strangulation and Battery of a Dating Partner With Child Endangerment by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Brendon Spell (age 28) was booked on the charges of Fugitive, Simple Criminal Damage to Property, Battery of a Dating Partner, Simple Assault, and Unlawful Posting of Criminal Activity by the Covington Police Department.
William Overby (age 47) was booked on the charges of Fugitive (2 counts), Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Louisiana State Police.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Missing St. Tammany Attorney Found Deceased
After being reported missing to the Mandeville Police Department on Friday, April 24, 2026, an investigation was initiated into the disappearance of Attorney David P. Sirera.
At approximately 2:00 p.m. Saturday (April 25, 2026), St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a report of a suspicious vehicle in a wooded area near the intersection of Highway 1088 and Highway 36. The vehicle was confirmed to belong to Sirera. During the course of the investigation, it was determined that he was also located deceased inside the vehicle.
The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office has confirmed his identity and has taken custody for further investigation.
At this time, there are no signs of foul play and the investigation remains ongoing.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 25, 2026
Jamil Clay (age 40 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Flight From an Officer, Resisting an Officer, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present (2 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule V Drugs, Domestic Abuse Battery, Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Assault, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, and Drug Free Zone Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $75000.00.
Michael Miller (age 29 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Bridgette Lee (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Interfering With Emergency Communication and Resisting Arrest by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.
Christopher Gutierrez (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Careless Operation, and Drivers License/Failure to Apply for Louisiana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.
Evan Thornhill (age 35 with Foxworth, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Pregnant Woman and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Antoine Graves (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Vehicle Burglary (2 counts) and Criminal Trespass by the Franklinton Fire Department and on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $37500.00.
William Thomas (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on charge(s) not listed by Agency not listed. No bond information available.
***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 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tuesday Partly sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tuesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
April 25, 2026
St. Tammany Parish Jail Bookings for April 24, 2026
Kameron Coates (age 25) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Criminal Damage and Obstruction of Justice by the Slidell Police Department.
Tanica Daliet (age 32) was booked on the charges of No Safety Belts, Driver Must be Licensed, Aggravated Flight From Officer, Hit & Run, and Aggravated Obstruction of Highway of Commerce by the Slidell Police Department.
Jerry Babineaux (age 61) was booked on the charges of Windshields Required, Possession of Schedule 1, Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Dallas Tamayosa (age 30) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II (2 counts), Obedience to Traffic Control Devices, and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles/Display of Plate by the Slidell Police Department.
Tamara Green (age 48) was booked on the charge of failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Brandon Williams (age 33) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole.
Casey Willie (age 40) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to Juveniles by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Sharon Willie (age 39) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to Juveniles by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Daniel Ely (age 32) was booked on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise to Appear by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Hannah Gambrel (age 25) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court, Possession of Schedule II, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia 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.
Ryan Billings (age 44) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II and Improper Turn by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Amber Robbins (age 41) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Louis McCoy (age 53) was booked on the charges of Driver Must Be Licensed, Improper Lane Usage, Resisting an Officer by Flight, Obstruction of Justice by Tampering With Evidence, Manufacture/Distribution Schedule II CDS, and Drug Paraphernalia by the Slidell Police Department.
Sammi Cossich (age 36) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
Christopher Young (age 21) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 and Pedestrian on Hwy/Interstate by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 23-24, 2026
J'Shawn Bell (age 28 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Reggie Conerly (age 49 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness and False Communication With Intent to Cause an Emergency Response Resulting in Serious Injury or Death by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Serenity Muhammad (age 20 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Patirica Pittman (age 45 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Failure to Provide Proper Info and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Lorenzo Lee (age 47 with no address listed) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Dayun Taylor (age 22 with no address listed) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. 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 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. South wind around 5 mph becoming west in the afternoon.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. Calm wind.
Sunday A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Sunday Night A 60 percent chance of thunderstorms before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Monday Mostly sunny, with a high near 89. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
April 24, 2026
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Establishing a Lawn, Part 1: Take a Soil Test, and Choose a Grass Well-Suited to Your Site
People occasionally desire to establish or re-establish turfgrass.
First, consider whether turfgrass is the best choice for your site. While some turfgrass species grow better than others in partial shade, none thrive in dense shade. If an area is too shady for turfgrass, consider an alternative such as mulching; planting shade-tolerant groundcovers such as liriope, Asiatic jasmine, or ferns; or allowing moss to grow.
If you have a large piece of property, there may be areas that would be more satisfactory in a naturalized state. You might consider allowing the natural process of ecological succession to occur, with low-growing herbaceous plants being replaced by shrubs and tree seedlings and, eventually, mature trees. Non-native, invasive plants can be periodically removed.
If you’ve decided you do indeed want a lawn, before attempting to establish turfgrass, take a soil sample. This is your chance to till in any needed amendments rather than just applying them to the surface. Additionally, having soil pH and nutrient levels in appropriate ranges is important for getting grass off to a good start.
It takes a period of months for lime and sulfur to take full effect when raising or lowering pH, respectively, so it’s best to get a soil test well ahead of when you plan to plant. Before you amend the soil, consider what type of turfgrass you want, since they have different soil pH needs.
Centipedegrass and St. Augustinegrass are the most common choices for home lawns in our area. Centipedegrass requires less frequent mowing and less fertilizer than St. Augustinegrass. It can be sodded, plugged, or seeded, but it may not establish well from seed in heavy soils, where the soil surface becomes hard. If centipedegrass will be seeded, good seedbed preparation is crucial.
St. Augustinegrass is the most shade-tolerant of our common turfgrasses, though as mentioned above, no turfgrass will thrive in dense shade. St. Augustinegrass has wider blades than centipedegrass and performs best when mowed higher. St. Augustinegrass is sodded or plugged rather than seeded, as seed is not sold.
Neither centipedegrass nor St. Augustinegrass are very wear tolerant. If you’re expecting a lot of foot traffic, you might want to consider something else.
Zoysiagrass has moderate shade- and wear-tolerance. Specific varieties of zoysiagrass can be seeded, though it establishes slowly from seed. It’s a tough grass once established. Like bermudagrass and bahiagrass, it’s highly drought tolerant. Zoysiagrass is prone to developing thatch and will likely need to be de-thatched from time to time.
Bermudagrass is a good option for sunny sites where there will be a lot of foot traffic. It’s the most wear-tolerant of our common turfgrasses. However, it does not tolerate shade. Common bermudagrass can be readily established from seed, while hybrid bermudagrass is sodded, plugged, or sprigged. Bermudagrass grows quickly and needs to be mowed often. It takes a good deal of fertilizer over the course of the growing season to maintain turf quality. Bermudagrass often grows into areas where it isn’t wanted, such as flower beds.
Carpetgrass can be established from seed and, unlike most turfgrasses, grows well in poorly drained areas. Like centipedegrass, it doesn’t require a lot of fertilizer and is suited to soil that’s more acidic than what’s best for most turfgrasses. Like bahiagrass, it produces seedheads quickly. Common lawn herbicides are generally not labeled for use on it, so weed management may be difficult.
Bahiagrass is better known as a pasture grass than a lawn grass, but it’s an option for large, rural lawns where a highly manicured appearance is not a priority. It can be recognized by its tall, V-shaped seedheads. It can be seeded and is highly drought tolerant.
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).
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