Inmate Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Jail

Source: Robert Rhoden, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune  

An inmate died after a disturbance in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite, authorities said Tuesday (Jan. 31). The Sheriff's Office said the death was a homicide but released few other details.

The Sheriff's Office has not publicly named the inmate, but WWL television quoted relatives identifying him as Tommy Smith, 40. Relatives said Smith was jailed Monday on a charge of violating his  probation from a sexual battery case.

Shortly before midnight, jailers  responded to a disturbance between inmates, the Sheriff's Office said. One inmate needed immediate medical attention, and staffers performed CPR until emergency crews arrived, the agency said, adding: "Unfortunately attempts to revive the offender were unsuccessful," the release said.

The Sheriff's Office criminal investigation division is looking into the death.

Senator Beth Mizell Schedules Town Hall Meeting

A Town Hall meeting has been scheduled by Senator Beth Mizell for Saturday, February 4, 2017 at 10:00 at New Zion Baptist Church located at 17387 New Zion Church Road in Covington, Louisiana.

Senator Mizell represents residents of District 12 in the Louisiana Senate and invites all to attend.

As a reminder, Senator Mizell may be contacted by mail, email, fax, or in person. The mailing address is P. O. Box 16, Franklinton, Louisiana 70438.  Her email address is mizellb@legis.la.gov.  The telephone number is (985) 839-3936 and the fax number is (985) 839-7714. Her office is located at 1051 Main Street in Franklinton. 

Annual Quilt Seminar is February 4 in Franklinton

Louisiana Heart Hospital Near Lacombe Plans to Close

Source:  FAIMON A. ROBERTS III | THEADVOCATE.COM

The Louisiana Heart Hospital, a 134-bed facility near Lacombe, announced this week that it would file for bankruptcy protection and likely close within the next month. 

Hospital officials cited shrinking reimbursements and rising operating costs as the reasons for the move. They have been searching for a buyer, but none has been found, according to a news release.

Care for current in-patients will not be interrupted. Others are encouraged to contact their doctor if they have questions about how the closure may affect them, the news release said.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 31, 2017

Leigh Cutrer was booked 01/30 In From Court

William Reeves was booked 01/30 on the charge of Attachment

Dustin Glover was booked 01/30 on the charges of Theft of Auto/Vehicle and Theft Under 750

Gary Mizell was booked 01/30 on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise

Reminder of Small Business Seminar February 2

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 30, 2017

Aquilla Baker was booked 01/28 on the charges of Unlawful Disruption of a School Operation and Simple Assault on a School Teacher

Earl Seal was booked 01/28 on the charges of Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Resisting an Officer, Theft of Auto/Vehicle, and Traffic Problem

Nicholas Johnson was booked 01/28 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Careless Operation, Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law, and Attachment

Teesha Kennedy was booked 01/28 on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Theft of Goods, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Rodney London was booked 01/28 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Careless Operation

Jack Mozer was booked 01/28 on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile (3 counts) and Obscenity

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 28, 2017

shley Packwood was booked 01/27 on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery

Ladarrius Carson was booked 01/27 on the charge of Failure to Pay Fine

Jody Adams was booked 01/27 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts)

Jeremy Penton was booked 01/27 on the charges of Aggravated Second Degree Battery and Criminal Damage

Trooper Struck by Covington Motorist During Traffic Stop Near Greensburg

Another crash involving a Trooper being struck by a motorist again highlights the importance of Louisiana’s “move-over” law. On Friday (January 27) afternoon, the Trooper stopped a driver near Greensburg for a traffic violation. After exiting his fully marked State Police vehicle, the Trooper and his vehicle was struck by a vehicle driven by Johnnie Lee (75) of Covington.  

The Trooper sustained moderate injuries in the crash and was transported to North Oaks Medical Center by Acadian Ambulance. He is expected to be released in the coming days and make a full recovery. 

Lee was cited for careless operation and the crash remains under investigation.

“The injury that our Trooper suffered today was entirely avoidable,” said Colonel Mike Edmonson, State Police Superintendent. “Today's crash marks the second time in a week where a Trooper has been injured by a passing motorist. The move-over law was designed to protect officers and those who may find themselves on the side of the road. This is a perfect, yet unfortunate example of why drivers must slow down and move over.”

Help SPD Identify This Armed Robbery Suspect

Mandeville Father (18) Booked on Juvenile Cruelty Charge

On Thursday January 26, 2017 The Mandeville Police Department arrested 18 year old Stephen Michael Dufresne (18) for Second Degree Cruelty to a Juvenile. Officers responded about 5:00 am to Lakeview Regional Hospital in reference to a one month old male infant with internal bleeding to his head. The infant had been brought to the emergency room late on the previous night by his grandmother after she arrived at the residence and discovered the infant limp and having difficulty breathing. The infant was later airlifted to Children’s Hospital in New Orleans where he remains in critical condition in the Pediatric ICU.

Given the nature of the infant’s injury (consistent with being shaken violently) and information learned after interviewing the parents, detectives applied for an arrest  warrant for Stephen Michael Dufresne, the baby's father, and booked him into jail. The charge of 2nd Degree Cruelty carries a penalty of up to forty years. 

The Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) has also been notified of the incident. This matter is still under investigation.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 27, 2017

Nicholas Stogner was booked 01/26 In From Court

Joshua Bickham was booked 01/26 on the charges of Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, Obstruction of Justice, and Carrying Firearm/Weapon on School Property

Tylina Imboden was booked 01/26 on the charges of Failure to Appear (3 counts)

Michelle Cosse Magee was booked 01/26 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction (2 counts)

Timothy Brumfield was booked 01/26 on the charges of Failure to Pay Fine and Failure to Honor Written Promise

Ryan Miley was booked 01/26 on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s) - 2 counts

Paul Anthony Walker was booked 01/27 on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Lanika Warren was booked 01/26 on the charges of Theft by Shoplifting Over 100, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Failure to Appear, and Contempt of Court

Drug Dealer Arrested – Released on $30 Signature Bond

Washington Parish Sheriff's Office Press Release

On January 25, while working in the Clifton/Hackley area investigating complaints about illegal drug sales, a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force detective questioned two occupants of a suspicious vehicle in the parking lot of a church on White Hayes Creek Road. The driver stated that he brought his passenger to that location to meet another individual, but did not know the purpose of the meeting.

The driver exited the vehicle and submitted to a search when asked.  The passenger, whom the drug task force had been investigating for the sale of illegal drugs, then exited the vehicle and was searched.

The driver granted permission to search the vehicle and a search of the area where the passenger sat produced several items, including five small plastic baggies containing methamphetamine, one small glass tube containing methamphetamine residue, another plastic bag containing approximately one gram of methamphetamine, six Lortab pills and one Adderall pill. The passenger admitted to ownership of all items.

At that time, the detective arrested Hugh Samuel Smith, 56, a resident of Sam Smith Road in Mt. Hermon. Smith was transported to the Washington Parish Jail charged with three counts of possession of methamphetamine and one count of possession of drug paraphernalia. Smith was released on January 26 after posting only $30 for a signature bond.

Sheriff Randy Seal commented. “Our Drug Task Force detectives had been investigating Smith on a complaint from a parent that Smith was selling drugs to her child. Their investigation and the encounter yesterday led to his arrest. Our detectives did their job, only to learn that this drug dealer was released one day later on a signature bond. WRONG!”

Accused Pair of Drug Dealers Arrested in Mt. Hermon

Rachel Rebecca Boucher (37) and Michael Perry (42), living in a camper trailer in the Mt. Hermon community, were arrested on January 24 by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force. After receiving information from a concerned citizen, Detectives set up surveillance, and followed the two when they left the residence.  The driver commit traffic offenses and the vehicle was stopped.  

After advising the driver why she was being pulled over, a detective asked Perry for identification and he was unable to provide any. A knife and a cigarette pack containing several marijuana roach cigarettes and a small amount of methamphetamine was found on Perry. A vehicle search revealed a small flashlight containing morphine pills, bags of methamphetamine, and a glass pipe with methamphetamine residue. A search of the camper trailer at 24257 Jim Edwards Road yeilded a plastic container with additional methamphetamine, digital scales, needles and baggies matching the type found in the vehicle.

Washington Parish Sheriff Randy Seal is pleased with the arrests. “I am sick and tired of drug dealers operating in Washington Parish and I am so pleased our fine detectives were able to put these two in jail. Mt. Hermon is a peaceful community and residents there do not deserve to have drug dealers living in their midst. I promised the people of Washington Parish that we will go after drug dealers and that is exactly what we are doing now and will be doing in days to come. Be assured, more arrests are coming.”

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 26, 2017

Latreed Allen was booked 01/25 on the charges of Protective Order Violation and Stalking

Lavern Ezell was booked 01/25 In From Court

Essie Hicks was booked 01/25 In From Court

Charlotte Branch was booked 01/25 In From Court

Hugh Smith was booked 01/25 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (3 counts) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Brittany Walker was booked 01/25 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law

Howard Hanson was booked 01/25 on the charge of Probation Violation

Andrew Pierce was booked 01/25 on the charge of Probation Violation

Less Dillon was booked 01/25 on the charges of Second Degree Kidnapping and Domesstic Abuse Battery (Strangulation)

Alexis Dixon was bookied 01/25 on the charge of Probation Violation

Gregory Walker was booked 01/25 on the charge of Failure to Appear

Joshua Bickham was booked 01/25 on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Obstruction of Justice, and Carrying Firearm/Weapon on School Property

Leigh Cutrer was booked 01/25 In From Court

Ronnie Thormas was booked 01/25 on the charge of Theft 5000-25000

Washington Parish Man Forged $8000 to Support Drug Addiction

On January 20, Timothy Alan Goings, Jr. (26) , a resident of Cordy Temples Road, was arrested and charged with twenty counts of forgery, possession of stolen property and contempt of court.

According to the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, Goings was cashing checks in Bogalusa and Franklinton which had been stolen earlier from a business on Highway 21 south in Bogalusa. When he returned to a Franklinton business where he had previously cashed a check, the business notified the Franklinton Police Department who arrested Goings. Goings confessed to using the approximately $8,000 he received from the checks to support his drug addiction. 

Sheriff Randy Seal commented. “First of all, I am grateful to the Franklinton Police Department for their assistance in this matter. We have a great working relationship with Chief Smith and his officers. They are always ready, willing and able to assist when called upon. I also caution parish businesses to be very diligent in accepting checks from persons they do not know and to always ask for personal identification.”

Two Psychological Service Owners from Slidell Convicted

Two owners of psychological services companies convicted Tuesday (January 24) for their involvement in a $25.2 million Medicare fraud scheme carried out through eight companies at nursing homes in four states in the Southeastern United States.

Rodney Hesson (47) and Gertrude Parker (63), both of Slidell, were convicted following a seven-day jury trial in the Eastern District of Lousiana. They were each convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to make false statements related to health care matters. The jury verdict included a money judgment of $8,956,278, as well as forfeiture of Hesson’s home and at least $525,629 in seized currency. A sentencing hearing for both defendants is set for May 4, 2017, before U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Barbier of the Eastern District of Louisiana.

Hesson and Parker caused their companies to bill Medicare for hours of psychological testing services that  nursing home residents did not need or in some instances did not receive.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 25, 2017

Peggy Mezquite was booked 01/24 In From Court

Rachel Boucher was booked 01/24 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Driving Left of Center (Crossing Center Line)

Michael Perry was booked 01/24 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, Resisting an Officer, and Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Information.

Parish Council Slow to Appoint Hospital Commissioners

During the Washington Parish Council meeting Monday (January 23) evening, Riverside Medical Center Commissioner Brent King reminded the Council that the hospital's board District 7 representative Rachel Gill had not been reappointed and no one else had been appointed in her place. A letter had been sent to Parish Government in October, 2016 advising of the upcoming vacancy. Gill's term expired December 31, 2016. A vacancy presents a problem with quorums, particularly in committee meetings. The problem could be exacerbated by other vacancies coming up in 2017. Vacancies should be avoided by appointments or reappointments prior to terms expiring. (Watch the video beginning about 7:00 minutes into the meeting).

Residents Phillipp Bedwell and Virginia Corkern came before the Council with concerns.  The Council also heard heard reports from Parish President Richard Thomas and his staff. Public Works Director Leo Lucchesi described culverts that would be installed soon and Road Supervisor Donnell Merrit reported on work being performed.

Councilman Lewis initiated a conversation (beginning 32:20 into video of the meeting) about acquiring the use of a building on the grounds of the Angie school for use as a branch of the Washington Parish Library. Of primary concern is determining the cost of remodeling the building, which has been vacant for several years.  Lewis also indicated community interest in using another building and school property for recreation purposes.

WP Council 01232017 from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Openings at RCC for Corrections Cadet

Rayburn Correctional Center at Angie has openings for the position of Corrections Cadet. You must apply through the Civil Service Website (LA Careers) to take the Corrections Cadet Test. Starting salary is $11.71 per hour with the possibility of a reallocation to a Corrections Sergeant, making $13.03 per hour, after 6 months of good performance. 

For more information, please contact the Human Resources Office at 985-661-6389, 985-661-6390, or 985-661-6391.

Franklinton Chamber Sponsoring Business Development Training

Man Wanted in Pike County for Accessory to Murder

The Pike County Sheriff's Office is attempting to locate Jamie "Legion 100" McElvin, 6'1", 220 lbs., 28 year old black, male. McElvin could possibly be driving a 2016 Toyota Rav4 4 Door Black(Dark Blue) with Wyoming license plate 3-38785. McElvin is wanted for Accessory After the Fact to Murder. 

Please call the Pike County Communications at 601-783-2323 or Crime Stoppers at 601-684-0033 with any information. 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 24, 2017

Michael Williams was booked 01/23 on the charges of Failure to Appear (4 counts)

Kent Magee was booked 01/23 on the charge of Theft 750 or less

Savannah Call-Lee was booked 01/23 on the charges of Forgery (3 counts)

Darrell Eschete was booked 01/23 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Contempt of Court

Edgar Talley was booked 01/23 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Triuna Allen was booked 01/23 In For Court

Christy Magee was booked 01/23 on the charge of Protective Order Violation

Counterfeit Money/Equipment and Drugs Found in Hammond Search

On January 18th, 2017, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriffs Office (TPSO) Narcotics Division, Criminal Investigations, and the Hammond Police Department’s Narcotics Division conducted a search warrant at a Budget Inn room in Hammond and arrested five persons on various charges ranging from narcotics violations, Conspiracy to commit monetary instrument abuse, Money laundering and Racketeering.

Arrested were Glenn Dufrene (W/M age 38) of Albany, Robin Smith (W/F age 28) of Tickfaw, Jessica Ragan  (WF age 38) of Robert, Carla Manzella McGraw (WF age 37) of Hammond , and Matthew Mckinley (WM age 27) of Robert.  

Mckinley violently resisted members of the warrant team. Numerous narcotics were recovered including methamphetamines, drug paraphernalia used to ingest methamphetamine and numerous Klonopin & Hydrocodone tablets. Additionally, a large sum of counterfeit U.S. Currency was recovered with the electronic equipment necessary to manufacture counterfeit U.S. Currency. 

The United State Secret Service was notified in regards to the findings of this investigation and will further the investigation in the future.

STPSO Investigating Fatal House Fire

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating a house fire that resulted in the death of Covington man, believed to be Brandon Kellum (28).  St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Charles Preston’s office conducted an autopsy this morning, and ruled the cause of death as asphyxia by smoke inhalation and by thermal burns. Additional tests are being conducted to confirm the identity of the body.

Around 1:30 A.M. yesterday morning (Sunday, January 22), the STPSO and St. Tammany Fire District #13, responded to a house fire at 72347 Forest Drive in Covington. They located three subjects outside of the residence, two of which suffered severe burns and were transported to a burn center in Baton Rouge. They indicated that Brandon Kellum was still inside, but the fire was too extreme for first responders to enter safely. After the flames were extinguished, a body was discovered inside.

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the A.T.F., and the Louisiana Fire Marshal are investigating the incident. The cause of the fire is still under investigation.

Suspect Sought by Hammond PD Relative to Homicide Investigation

The Hammond Police Department continues to investigate a homicide that occurred on December 28, 2016 at 54 Whitmar. At this time, a warrant has been issued for the arrest of Arthur Robinson A.K.A. Wooda, 22 years old of Hammond, for Obstruction of Justice.

If anyone knows the whereabouts of the suspect, please contact Detective Corey Morse at 985-277-5758 with the Hammond Police Department Criminal Investigations Division or call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1-800-554-5245 (JAIL).

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 23, 2017

Keithen Ishman was booked 01/20 In From Court

Michael Wolbers was booked 01/21 on the charges of Simple Battery, Cruelty to a Juvenile(s), and Criminal Damage

Kelli English was booked 01/21 on the charges of Hit and Run, Leaving Scene of Accident, Ran Stop Sign, Driving Under Suspension, Switched License Plates, and No Proof of Insurance

Chandler Scott was booked 01/22 on the charges of Disturbing the Peace and Resisting an Officer

Justin Alford was booked 01/22 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace (Drunkenness)

Steven Cotton was booked 01/22 on the charges of Failure to Appear and Contempt of Court

Kristopher White was booked 01/22 In For Court

Warren Smith was booked 01/22 In For Court

James Voth was booked 01/22 In For Court

Tangipahoa Sheriff Arrest Three of His Own Employees

TPSO Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports that six arrests were made January 19, 2017 after a four-week long investigation that partnered TPSO and the District Attorney's Office and focused on allegations of suspected  illegal criminal bond activity.  

Sheriff Edwards discovered that employees, Criminal Records Supervisor Sgt. Sonja Dyson Evans (55) of Kentwood, Latecial Milton (50) of Roseland, and Crystal Knight (31) of Amite, had indeed participated in illegal criminal bond activity. Evans was charged with Forgery (15 counts), Injuring public records, and Malfeasance in office. Milton was charged with one count of Malfeasance in office. Knight was charged with 19 offences to include Forgery, Injuring public records, Malfeasance and Illegal consideration of criminal bail bonds. During the investigation, the accused were either terminated or put on administrative leave.

Additionally arrested were Racquelle D. Collins (43) of Tickfaw, Robert Smith (63) of Roseland and Kedrick Carlson (31) of Hammond for there participation and knowledge of illegal criminal bond activity.  

Due to the on-going investigation and to the sensitive nature of the allegations, limited details are available at this time.   Future arrest and additional charges are expected to be forthcoming. 

Sheriff Edwards states (in part), “No one is above the law. I will not allow for any employee who allegedly engages in criminal activity to tarnish the good character and dedication of the many great women and men who unselfishly serve the residents of Tangipahoa Parish with integrity and professionalism.”

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 21, 2017

Benjamin Holmes was booked 01/20 In From Court

Charles Jones was booked 01/20 In From Court

Joshua Smith was booked 01/20 In From Court

Whitefeather Norris was booked 01/20 on the charges of Distribution of Legend Drug and Failure to Appear

Timothy Goings was booked 01/20 on the charges of Contempt of Court, Theft 5000 - 25000, Possession of Stolen Property, and Forgery (20 counts)

Adam Thomas was booked 01/20 on the charges of Simple Assault and Contempt of Court

Mandeville ROTC Instructor Charged

On January 20, 2017, the Mandeville Police Department received a Crime Stoppers Tip concerning an ROTC Instructor at Mandeville High School having inappropriate relationships with female students. During the course of the investigation, the instructor was identified as Hosea McGhee (B/M 48 YOA) of Slidell. 

A search warrant was obtained for McGhee’s phone, which resulted in locating a large number of inappropriate text messages to at least one juvenile. McGhee was placed under arrest for 1 count of Computer-aided Solicitation of a Minor. McGhee was later transported to the ST Tammany Parish Jail.

The case is still under investigation and additional charges are expected.

President Trump Inaugural Address

Bogalusa Farmers Market Opens April 1

Great News! The Bogalusa Farmers Market will open April 1, in conjunction with Our Lady of the Angels Hospital's Family Fest. The event will be in Goodyear Park from 9 am. to 1 pm. 

Even better, the market will be held each Saturday at the same time and same location. 

According to Market Manager Michael Norman, Bogalusa Farmers Market is part of the Washington Parish United Initiative, a non-profit organization and a collaboraive effort of a number of organizations.

They are currently actively recruiting vendors for the market. So If you grow, raise, sew, bake, paint, craft, etc., please visit https://www.facebook.com/BogalusaFarmersMarket and message them for more information. You may also send an email to bogfrmmkt@gmail.com or call Michael Norman at 985-807-4447.

Man Calls That He Was Robbed While Buying Drugs

The “victim”, the perpetrator, and a third individual all ended up behind bars after a Slidell man called  Wednesday night  to report he was robbed while purchasing drugs.

After Zachary Stampley (27) met Devin Pearson (19) to buy pills, Pearson ,Pearson pulled out a gun and robbed Stampley of his cell phone and his wallet, which contained $350. He also took back some the Xanax pills he had just sold Stampley. Pearson ws located Thursday morning by the st. Tammany Parish SWAT team at his mother's residence and arrested on the charges of Armed Robbery and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs (Xanax).

While executing the warrant on Pearson, deputies attempted to detain Alexis Parks (19) but resisted deputies and was arrested on the charges of Resisting a Police Officer by Violence and Battery on a Police Officer. 

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith says, “As with most violent crimes, there is always a common denominator…drugs. We will continue our crackdown against narcotics here in St. Tammany Parish. Expect to see more from our narcotics task force in the months to come.”

As the investigation continues, additional charges could follow.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 20, 2017

William Allred was booked 01/19 on the charge of Attachment

William Magee was booked 01/19 on the charges of Disturbing the Peace, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs (4 counts), Attachment, Failure to Appear, and Distribution of Legend Drugs

Patrick Parker was booked 01/19 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Justin Cleveland was booked 01/19 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace - Domestic Violence

Jaysha Bourland was booked 01/19 on the charges of No Seat Belt, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Appear

Troopers Seize Over $411,000 Worth of Cocaine

Early Wednesday (January 18) morning, Louisiana State Police troopers conducted a traffic stop on Interstate 12, which resulted in the seizure of approximately 13.7 kilos of cocaine. Troopers booked the driver, Patrick David Spearman (48) of Georgia into the St. Tammany Parish Jail for possession of over 400 grams of cocaine.

Troopers initially observed Spearman commit a traffic violation on Interstate12 eastbound near the Tangipahoa/St. Tammany Parish line. During the course of the traffic stop, Troopers requested consent to search Spearman’s Ford Edge. Spearman refused a consensual search. Troopers deployed K9 “Rex”. Rex gave a positive response to the vehicle and a subsequent search yielded approximately 13.7 kilos of cocaine with an estimated street value of $411,000.00.

Fraudulent Credit Card Operation Shut Down by STPSO

A Slidell couple’s fraudulent credit card / identity theft operation has been shut down by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and resulted in 115 counterfeit credit cards, equipment used to make credit cards, and more than $25,000 worth of high-end shoes being seized.

Roland Celestine (24) and Gariuan Hampton (22), both of Slidell, were arrested last week for Bank Fraud, Identity Theft, Monetary Instrument Abuse and for violating the Anti-skimming Act.

Celestine and Hampton would first steal credit card numbers by utilizing skimming devices, and/or by purchasing stolen identities from the “dark web”. The couple would then take pre-paid gift cards, reprogram the magnetic strip with the fraudulent credit card information, and emboss their actual names on the credit cards. The duo would then use the cards to make fraudulent purchases at local retail stores.

A majority of the purchases made were high-end shoes that are often used as currency amongst the young adults because they are easily liquidated for cash, traded, and/or used as collateral.

The investigation continues.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for January 19, 2017

Kirsty Bates was booked 01/18 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Driving Left of Center (Crossing Center Line), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Contraband in a Correctional Facility

John Burkhalter was booked 01/18 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Demond Peters was booked 01/18 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) and Contempt of Court

Help STPSO Identify These Two Suspects

Mayor Wendy Perrette Focused on Achieving Goals

Some in Bogalusa have, over the last several months, expressed their dissatisfaction with the performance of Bogalusa's leaders. Recall Petitions have even been filed with the Louisiana Secretary of State's office targeting Mayor Wendy Perrette and Councilmen Doug Ritchie and Teddy Drummond.

Today, Mayor Perrette issued a positive statement declaring her commitment to bringing the City back.

“While I fully understand the frustration of a community that believes themselves to be under-represented, I can only do that which was I was elected to do and that is represent each and every citizen of the City Of Bogalusa to the best of my ability and I will continue to do so.

We are a community that is both diverse and vibrant. My administration will continue to work to achieve the goals we set two years ago when we began this journey: to bring the City back from the brink of financial ruin, repair and update the infrastructure, and work to improve the quality of life in the City of Bogalusa.

While I admit we have far to go, we have achieved much in this very short period of time. We will stay focused on bettering the City.”

Bogalusa Council Has Productive Council Meeting

The Bogalusa City Council handled routine matters at their Tuesday (January 17) meeting, voted to approve two ordinances related to the airport, introduced an ordinance to approve a revenue-anticipation note (Public Hearing on February 7), and held a Public Hearing on and voted to approve an ordinance closing the cemeteries from dusk to dawn (whose purpose is primarily to prevent or reduce vandalism).

The Council heard from several residents (beginning 28:25 into the video) with legitimate concerns. One, however, was told he was out of order for verbally attacking Police Chief Bullen (beginning 40:00 into the video).

Mayor Perrette updated the Council (beginning 21:40 into the video) on various repairs being made, that Arbor Day will be at Cassidy Park on Saturday (January 21), that trees are being planted at the park, that work was done by the Jr. ROTC at the cemetery, that improvements made at Ponemah Cemetery was made possible by a private donation, on the use of revenue-anticipation funds, that water project work improvements will soon begin in Richardsontown, that the City has received no money from FEMA yet for reconstruction of the playground in the park, that changes will be made to water billing, and the Senior Citizens Building re-opening will be March 11.

Bogalusa Council 01172017 from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Washington Parish Inmate Gets 5 Years for ‘Shank’

Jason Jarrell Spikes (31), an inmate in the Washington Parish jail, was sentenced Friday (January 13) to five years in prison for possessing a homemade knife that was found in his bunk. Security officers had testified that on February 27, 2016, they noticed Spikes appeared to be either sick or impaired in his cell. When officers went to check on Spikes further, they searched his cell and found a “shank,” apparently made from a broken microwave plate, under the edge of his mattress.

Spikes was convicted previously of three drug felonies, and he has a pending attempted murder charge, as well as other charges that stem from his incarceration in the parish jail. A hearing before District Judge William J. “Rusty” Knight on February 17 will determine whether Spikes will be sentenced as a multiple offender. If so, he faces from 20 years to life in prison.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information

Susan Audibert was booked 01/17 on the charges of Failure to Use Turn Signal, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Violation of Uniform Controlled Dangerous Substances Law

Shamar Alexander was booked 01/17 on the charges of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs and Possession of Schedule I Drugs (Morphine)

Leekiba Gholar was booked 01/17 on the charge of 2nd Degree Rape (Forcible Rape)

Amanda Sumrall was booked 01/17 on the charges of Possession of Cocaine: 28 to 200 grams and Open Container in Vehicle

Malik Watkins was booked 01/17 In From Court

Ricky Tullos was booked 01/17 In From Court

Melvin Mark was booked 01/17 In From Court

Tina Williams was booked 01/17 on the charge of Unauthorized Use of Access Card

Devverron Morris was booked 01/17 In From Court

Chelsea Whaley was booked 01/17 on the charges of Forgery and Theft Under 750

Glenn Castle was booked 01/17 In For Court

Murder Suspect of McComb Man Caught in Wyoming

Jeremy McElvin, one of four suspects accused of killing Cort Gatlin (29) of McComb in the summer of 2016, was arrested in Sheridan, WY on January 18, 2017. He is awaiting an extradition hearing and will be transported back to Pike County, Mississippi. PCSO credits Sheridan Police Department and the U.S. Marshal's Task Force with McElvin's apprehension. The other three suspects were  Anthony J. Dauden, Bridget Dillon, and Exzavion Reed.

Dauden has previously told authorities how the four obtained a gun, talked Gatlin into getting into a car, drove to a residence on Summit Holmesville Road, beat Gatlin, taped his hands and mouth, and drove to Alford's Bridge.  Dauden said McElvin then shot Gatlin in the neck three times. 

Armed Robbery Suspect Moved From Hospital to Jail

Source: Robert Rhoden, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune  

The armed robbery suspect accused of exchanging gunfire with Slidell police has been  released from a hospital and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail, authorities said today (January 18). Michael Donato, 26, of Slidell, who was wounded in the shootout, was released by a New Orleans hospital Tuesday night and booked on the North Shore with attempted first-degree murder of a police officer, armed robbery, attempted second-degree murder and being a convicted felon in possession of a gun, said Trooper Dustin Dwight of Louisiana State Police.

Police said Donato tried to rob the Mr. Joe Chinese restaurant in a commercial strip at Gause Boulevard at Rue Rochelle on Friday at about 7:30 p.m. When police arrived, officers and the suspect fired at each other before Donato was apprehended, authorities said. Bullets shattered the windows of several businesses at the commercial centers.

Traffic Stop in Tangipahoa Parish Results in Drug Arrests

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office deputies initiated a traffic stop Saturday (January 14) morning and that resulted in the arrest of Michael Nelson, Jr. (28) and Jacoby Nelson (23). As deputies approached the driver (Michael Nelson, Jr.), they saw a bag of suspected illegal narotics in a clear plastic bag in plain view. When deputies attempted to detain him, the driver began to resist and to yell at the passenger (Jacoby Nelson) to destroy the evidence. Neither claimed possession of the narcotics. 

Also located on Michael Nelson, Jr. was large sums of various narcotics packaged for street level sales. A large sum of money was located on Jacoby Nelson. Ultimately, processed methamphetamine, crack cocaine, powder cocaine, ecstasy pills, OxyContin, Klonopin , marijuana, Xanax pills, and over $2,000 in cash was found. 

The two were arrested on numerous charges and booked into Tangipahoa Parish Jail.

Recall Petition Filed on Bogalusa Mayor / Two Councilmen

A Recall Petition was filed on January 3, 2017 with the Secretary of State's office requesting an election to recall Bogalusa Mayor Wendy Perrette and Councilmen at Large Teddy Drummond and Doug Ritchie.  The petition designates Malcom Dmetritch Moses as Chairman and Keith Davon Merrill as Vice-Chairman.

Within 180 days after the petition was filed, at least a third of qualified electors in Bogalusa must sign the petition and the petition submitted to the Registrar of Voters. The Registrar of Voters would then validate the signatures. Washington Parish Registrar of Voters indicated there were approximately 6861 qualified electors in the fall 2016 election and, therefore, approximately 2287 validated signatures would be needed for the recall to go forward.  If the required numbers of signatures are validated, Strickland expects the recall would be on the ballot in the fall of 2017. According to the Clerk of Court's Office, cost to the City for the recall would be approximately $16,000 if it is the only item on the ballot; if other items are on the ballot, the cost should be around $4,000.

Why is this recall effort being made?  The Mayor and members of the Council have been increasingly criticized by a relatively small number of people.  Most recently, the appointment of Kendall Bullen as Bogalusa Police Chief by Mayor Perrette and confirmation by a majority of the Council came under attack.  

Most issues are not new. The Mayor and Council have been struggling for some time with a dwindling tax base while having to address a need to maintain streets and other infrastructure. The Mayor has an “open door policy” and council members do their best to respond to citizens but the challenge of responding to critics and trying to satisfy everybody has led to two and three hour Council meetings.

It's Baseball Time in Bogalusa

Osyka Burglary Suspects Sought

The Pike County Sheriff's Office is needing the public's assistance to identifying and apprehending suspects involved in a burglary on US Hwy 51 north of Osyka, Ms on January 12, 2017. Two of the suspects appear to be white males and an unknown suspect in the vehicle. 

Please call the Investigations Division at 601-783-5468 or Crime Stoppers at 601-684-0033 with any information.

osyka burglary suspects from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Richard Reed Gets 2 Years in Prison

Source:  Robert Rhoden, NOLA.com | The Times-Picayune  

Richard Reed, brother of former North Shore District Attorney Walter Reed, was sentenced to two years in state prison Tuesday (Jan. 17) for obscenity and impeding a witness in a 2014 groping incident at The Chimes restaurant in Covington. State District Judge Peter Garcia sentenced Richard Reed, 68, saying, "Much about this case is particularly disturbing." 

Reed must pay restitution to the victim, register as a sex offender and remain on probation for five years after completing his prison sentence.

Police said Reed put the woman in his car and drove away, leading to a kidnapping charge. Covington police officers eventually stopped Reed, who flashed a DA's office badge, trying to give the impression that he had credentials with the office, authorities said.

Angie Man Arrested on Drugs, Weapons, and Traffic Charges

A Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputy made a traffic stop along La. 21 north of Bogalusa January 15 on a car which had no visible license plate. The deputy noticed a strong odor of marijuana, the driver had no license, and was very nervous.  A criminal background check revealed the driver had an outstanding warrant for previous traffic offenses. 

Deputies discovered a fully loaded semi-automatic pistol between the driver’s seat and the center console, along with bags of marijuana which was later weighed and determined to be 35.05 grams, $778 in cash, and a drug scale. 

Charles Anthony Martin (23), a resident of Angie, was arrested and booked into the Washington Parish Jail on two counts of possession of drug paraphernalia, one count of possession of narcotics with intent to distribute, one count of possession of controlled dangerous substances with a weapon present, one count of failure to have a driver’s license, one count of running a stop sign and contempt of court. 

Sheriff Randy Seal commented. “There is only one reason for carrying a concealed fully loaded semi-automatic pistol, and it is not to go squirrel hunting. When one of our deputies approaches a vehicle, there is no way to know who is in the vehicle and whether or not anyone in the vehicle has a weapon. Traffic stops are always tense times for officers and I am pleased to know that this one had a good ending. Not only was our deputy safe, but he was able to take a drug dealer out of our community and into jail where he belongs. Good job, deputy!”