St. Helena S. O. Unable to Release Shooting Victim Identity

Reports have circulated all day today that a Washington Parish native was the victim of a shooting last night in St. Helena Parish. The St. Helena Parish Sheriff's Office provided some information but has declined to identify the victim. They do report that they responded to a report of a shooting at 8:20 pm Wednesday (August 30, 2017) night on Pistol Womack Lane in Greensburg, Louisiana. Upon arrival, they discovered a light colored sedan that was riddled by bullets and had damage to the vehicle appearing to be from another vehicle. A female with gunshot wounds and showing no signs of life was found inside the vehicle. 
During further investigation, a male was located at the local hospital with injuries consistent of gun shot wounds. 
On August 31, 2017, the St. Helena Parish Sheriff’s Office contacted the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office in reference to the murder and identifying the suspect as Dana Deshun Williams (26), a resident of Robertson Road in Franklinton.
Washington Parish officers began a search for Williams but were unable to physically locate him. They were able to contact relatives and advise them that Williams was being sought and should turn himself in. Later that day, Williams turned himself in at the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office without incident. Williams was released at 5:04 pm August 31, 2017, apparently to St. Helena Parish Sheriff's Office. 
An update will be provided when more information is received.

WP Grand Jury Indicts Two on Rape Charges

A Washington Parish grand jury indicted two men Tuesday (August 29, 2017) in separate rape cases. 
Gary W. Mayfield (64) of Shreveport is charged with aggravated oral sexual battery of a victim under 12, aggravated rape of a victim under 12, and aggravated incest for alleged crimes that took place from June 13, 1999 through August 1, 2004.
Landon Scott Spears (40) of Franklinton is charged with first degree rape of a victim under 13 in the rape of a child who was 3 years old when the incident occurred between April 1, 2017, and May 28, 2017.

October 22, 2019 UPDATE on the Landon Spears charge of 1st Degree Rape: Confirmed with the District Attorney's Office that on August 9, 2018, Landon Spears was found not guilty of the charge.

Blocking the Road Leads to Arrest on Drug Charges

Source: Bogalusa Police Department Press Release
Acting Captain Troy Tervalon was patrolling the area of S. Royal Street Wednesday (August 30, 2017) about 10:00  pm when he observed a vehicle stopped in the middle of the roadway blocking both lanes of travel. Captain Tervalon also observed a male standing next to the vehicle, leaning into the passenger window and it appeared to be a drug deal taking place. 
When the male subject saw the fully marked police unit, he walked away from the vehicle and the vehicle left the area at a high rate of speed. The vehicle was finally stopped on New Orleans Street and the driver was identified as Nigena Wilson (28) of Bogalusa. 
Officers located Oxycodone pills in Wilson's front pants pocket, an Alieve pill bottle containing 2 Alprazolam 2mg pills and 2 Alprazolam 1mg pills, and an open container of beer. Later jail staff located a baggie containg a white power substance and a marijuana blunt in the waistband of Wilson's pants.
Wilson was booked on the charges of simple obstruction of a roadway, disobeying a stop sign, possession of schedule 2 drugs, possession of schedule 4 drugs, resisting an officer, introduction of contraband (Jail), 2nd offense possession of marijuana, driving under suspension and possession of alcohol in a vehicle. 

Obituary

Linda Stevenson Kirkland
December 27, 1946 - August 29, 2017

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 30, 2017

Donald Tate was booked 08/30 on the charges of Domestic Violence Battery (2nd Offense), Simple Battery, and Failure to Honor Written Promise
Yancy Johnson was booked 08/30 on the charge of Attachment
Christina McCain was booked 08/30 on the charge of Contempt of Court

Mandeville Man Dies After Crash on I-10

Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded Wednesday (August 30, 2017) morning to a two vehicle fatal crash on I-10 near Oak Harbor Blvd that claimed the life of Jody G. Lasalle (52) of Mandeville.
Troopers determined that as he was driving a 2007 Ford F-150 eastbound on I-10, Lasalle's vehicle traveled off the roadway to the left, through the grass median and into the westbound travel lanes. Lasalle’s truck was struck on the driver’s side by a 2017 Ford F-150 driven by Louie Cole (30) of Metairie. 
Lasalle sustained moderate injuries and was transported to University Medical Center by Acadian Ambulance but succumbed to his injuries. Cole was not injured in the crash.

Two Lacombe Men Arrested on Drug Charges

As part of an ongoing investigation, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Narcotics Task Force members executed a search warrant on August 21 at a residence in Lacombe and arrested Keith George Zoerner (35) and Jason William Lott (41).
During the search, detectives discovered and seized approximately 10.5 grams of Methamphetamine, several Ecstasy (MDMA) tablets, one schedule IV prescription capsule, drug paraphernalia associated with narcotics distribution and use and a shotgun at the home of Keith George Zoerner. Zoerner's associate, Jason Lott, was also present in the home at the time the search warrant was executed.
The STPSO Narcotics Task Force is comprised of detectives from the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, Mandeville Police Department, Covington Police Department and Slidell Police Department.

Ronda Sylvest Varnado Named First Recipient of Memorial Award

Washington Parish President Richard N. Thomas, Jr., on behalf of the Washington Parish  Government, read a proclamation and made a presentation to the family of Ronda Sylvest Varnado Monday (August 28, 2017) evening. The proclamation named Ronda as the first recipient of the Ronda Sylvest Memorial Award. The award was established to recognize the heroic and selfless acts of bravery in the line of duty. 
Ronda Varnado was driving a fully loaded water truck to the scene of a house fire in the Mt. Hermon area when, near the intersection of Mt. Pisgah Road and Burch Road, the truck left the roadway and tipped over, sliding several yards before striking an embankment. At that point, the water tank came loose and crashed into the truck cab, causing the her death. 

Mile Branch Settlement Tours Beginning

Starting in September, Mile Branch Settlement will open on Fridays, 10:00 A.M. until 2:00 P.M. for Class and Group Tours. Cost is $5.00 per person. Anyone interested in scheduling a tour, email dphelpsmilebranch@yahoo.com. 

WP Government Takes Care of Routine & Not So Routine Matters

Throughout the last few days, Washington Parish Government has been communicating with residents regarding the threats posed by Tropical Storm Harvey. Communication has been through their website, their Facebook page, and the Facebook page of the Washington Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness. At the Washington Parish Council meeting Monday (August 28, 2017) evening, Parish President Richard Thomas reported on the preparations for expected weather concerns associated with Tropical Storm Harvey. (beginning at 34:40 into video of the meeting)
In addition to addressing routine matters, the Washington Parish Council 

• made a presentation to the family of Ronda Sylvest Varnado (see separate story)

• increased the number of Poole's Bluff Nature Park Advisory Council members from five to seven.

• approved a resolution in support of the Washington Parish Watermelon Growers and Vegetable Farmers

• heard a report from Washington Parish Library Director Al Barron that efforts are being made to provide library services at Angie and to expand the facility at Enon. (beginning at 23:40 into video of the meeting)

• heard reports from Finance Director Donna Graham, Public Works Director Leo Lucchesi, and Transportation Manager Donnell Merritt. (beginning at 28:55 into video of the meeting).

Safety Tips as Dove Hunting Season Starts Satuday

Dove hunting season begins Saturday (September 2) throughout the state and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) along with the International Hunter Education Association-USA (IHEA-USA) wants to remind hunters to be aware of their safe zones of fire.

• For safety purposes, it is best to hunt in groups of three or less.

• Hunters should be spaced 24 to 40 yards apart. Each hunter has a safe zone that spans roughly 45 degrees directly in front of each hunter.

• If a dove flies behind the line of hunters, it is best that hunters do not fire.

• No hunter should ever point a firearm at another hunter when swinging on a dove.

Beware of Disaster Fraud Schemes

The National Center for Disaster Fraud reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of suspected fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Criminals can exploit disasters, such as Hurricane Harvey, through social media, e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, telephone calls, and other similar methods to solicit funds. 
Tips should be reported to the National Center for Disaster Fraud at (866) 720-5721. 
For more information, click here.

Obituary

Doris McMillan
September 18, 1956 - August 29, 2017

Obituary

Carolyn Magee
May 28, 1951 - August 26, 2017

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 29, 2017

Parrish Holloway was booked 08/29 on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Flight, Possession With Intent to Disribute Schedule I Drugs, Failure to Pay Fine, and Failure to Appear (2 counts)
William King was booked 08/29 on the charge of Resisting an Officer and Contempt of Court
Arica Runfalo was booked 08/29 on the charge of Contempt of Court

Two Wanted by Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office

Source: TPSO Press Release
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office Street Crimes Unit is asking WANTED Wednesday suspects - 28-year-old Eric Washington - with a last known address on Velma Road in Independence, LA and 24-year-old Natalbany resident Hermtrell Dangerfield to stop by the Sheriff’s Office today and turn themselves in!
Washington is being sought by the TPSO for an outstanding warrant for simple robbery, while Dangerfield is wanted on a failure to appear in court warrant for a simple burglary charge.
Come-on guys, it’s never too late to do the right thing!
In the event these two want to play hardball, anyone knowing their whereabouts is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 800.554.5245. 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 28, 2017

Kimberly Cooke was booked 08/28 on the charge of Probation Violation
Brandon Castillo was booked 08/28 on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction (2 counts), Failure to Change/Secure Registration, and Driving Under Suspension
Tracey Stevens was booked 08/28 on the charge of Probation Violation
Lesean Williams was booked 08/28 In For Court
Sonny Porter was booked 08/28 on the charge of Theft Under 750

Obituary

Lucy Lee Foil
May 25, 1922 - August 28, 2017

Obituary

Willene James Brumfield
November 08, 1928 - August 21, 2017

Obituary

James Eugene Partman, Sr.
March 14, 1951 - August 25, 2017

Obituary

Warren Lee Bridges
November 28, 1955 - August 25, 2017

McComb Woman Busted for Stealing $18k Worth of Baby Milk

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports the arrest of Samone Rimes (37) of McComb on Friday (August 25, 2017) by the newly developed “Retail Task Force”  between the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Hammond Police Department. Investigations by TPSO Detective Earl McFarlane, HPD Detective Chad Hill, and TPSO Financial Crimes Detective Travis Pittman led to the arrest. 
Rimes provided a post Miranda statement where she confirmed her involvement in an organized retail theft scheme where she targeted numerous retail locations to steal baby formula with the intent to resale it for profit. Rimes allegedly started filching the baby formula about three months ago and the thefts amounted to in excess of $18,000 in losses to retailers. Rimes was identified through the use of social media and video surveillance. 
Rimes even allegedly used social media to advertise for sale of the stolen product at a lowered price. An undercover controlled buy was arranged in the parking lot of the Hammond Square Mall and after the successful transaction was complete, Rimes was taken into custody.

Legislative Auditor Questions WP Reservoir Project's Continuation

The Louisiana Legislative Auditor released a report today (August 28, 2017) that seems to suggest (1) a lot of money has been spent by the Washington Parish Reservoir District Commission with nothing to show for the expenditures, (2) does not have funding to continue, (3) state law prohibits the commission from obtaining land through eminent domain, and (4) the project’s focus on water resources is unnecessary since Washington Parish already has abundant groundwater resources. 
The Washington Parish Reservoir District commission has spent more than $3 million on the reservoir project but still has not obtained the necessary permit to begin construction or acquired land rights. The commission has been working to obtain the necessary permits since 2006. Total project costs were estimated 10 years ago at between $27 million and $29 million, not including any environmental mitigation or land acquisition costs. 
Auditors noted that the legislature may wish to direct the commission to evaluate the viability of the project, including ways to obtain enough funding for completion, whether or not to revise the scope and design of the project, or whether or not the project should be continued. 
Click here to read the press release and get the link to the full report. 

Self-Serve Sandbag Locations in Washington Parish

Washington Parish President Richard N. Thomas, Jr. advises that Washington Parish has opened three  self-serve sand bag locations. There are a limited number of pre-filled sand bags available. Residents are asked to bring their own shovel.
The locations are 1) Washington Parish Fire District #7, 17380 Bill Booty Road, Bogalusa, 2) Washington Parish Public Works Location #2 at the corner of Hwy 10 / YACC Rd (West of Seven Mile Road), Franklinton, and 3) Washington Parish Public Works Location #3, 801 Pearl Street, Franklinton.

BBHF 5K Run in Bogalusa September 30

Click here to sign up and for more information

Trump Approves La. Emergency Declaration Request

Today, President Donald Trump approved Gov. John Bel Edwards’ Federal Emergency Declaration request for Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis, and Vermillion Parishes and ordered Federal assistance to supplement state, tribal and local response efforts due to the emergency conditions resulting from Tropical Storm Harvey beginning on Aug. 27, 2017, and continuing.
The President’s action will provide appropriate assistance for required emergency measures to save lives and to protect property and public health and safety, and to lessen or avert the threat of a catastrophe in the parishes of Beauregard, Calcasieu, Cameron, Jefferson Davis and Vermillion.
Specifically, FEMA is authorized to identify, mobilize and provide at its discretion equipment and resources necessary to alleviate the impacts of the emergency. Emergency protective measures, including direct Federal assistance, will be provided at 75 percent Federal funding. 

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 27, 2017

Abel Halbert was booked 08/27 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Useage, Resisting an Officer and Driving Under Suspension
Demond Peters was booked 08/27 on the charge of Contempt of Court

Man Charged with Sexually Abusing Five Juveniles

A St. Tammany Parish grand jury indicted Ross Patrick Bernard (40) of Ponchatoula on Thursday (August 24, 2017) of two counts of aggravated rape, two counts of sexual battery on a child under 13 years old, one count of oral sexual battery, one count of sexual battery, three counts of indecent behavior with a juvenile, and one count of failure to register as a sex offender.
Bernard is accused of abusing at least five juveniles between 2012 and 2016. He also is charged with failing to register as a sex offender for a prior conviction on felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile. Bernard fled to Virginia, where he was arrested on a warrant for the current charges. His case is set for pre-trial motion hearings on September 13, 2017.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 26, 2017

Timothy Brumfield was booked 08/26 on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise and Failure to Pay Fine
Chad Carden was booked 08/26 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Speeding 1-10 Over Limit
Candace Watts was booked 08/26 on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise (2 counts), Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Failure to Appear, and Contempt of Court (2 counts)
Lakevisiona Howard was booked 08/26 on the charges of Domestic Abuse: Child Endangerment and Resisting Arrest by Flight
Carla Brewer was booked 08/26 on the charges of Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling, Criminal Damage to Property Under 500, Theft Under 750, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Kirsten Gatlin was booked 08/26 on the charges of Forgery and Theft 750-5000

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 25, 2017

Jody Adams was booked 08/25 on the charges of Failure to Appear (3 counts) and Contempt of Court (2 counts)
Dustin Rushing was booked 08/25 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
James Williams was booked 08/25 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Calvin Straughter was booked 08/25 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Speeding 41 & More Over Limit
Jeremy Fowler was booked 08/25 on the charge of Theft of Utilities
Jeremy Anderson was booked 08/25 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery Strangulation, Domestic Abuse Child Endangerment (2 counts), Simple Battery, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

MS. Escaped Prisoners Arrested in Washington Parish

Yesterday (August 24, 2017), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives and the Drug Task Force arrested Dustin Hunter Rushing (22) of Roxie, MS. and James Anthony Williams (26) of Greenwood, MS. The two were booked into the Washington Parish Jail as fugitives from the Mississippi Department of Corrections and are awaiting extradition to the State of Mississippi.

Rushing and Williams escaped from a restitution center operated by the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Mississippi authorities notified the WPSO that the men likely were headed to Bogalusa to obtain a money order being sent to them at Wal-Mart from a person in Mississippi. Officers staked out the business and observed the two men enter. While the men were at the service counter, officers entered the store and took them into custody without incident. 

Gov. Edwards Declares Statewide Emergency

Click here to read the press release.

Price Gouging Laws in Effect

With the Governor declaring a state of emergency ahead of Hurricane Harvey making landfall, Attorney General Jeff Landry encourages Louisiana consumers to be conscious of price gouging.  Unfortunately, some people and businesses attempt to take advantage of consumers during and after natural disasters.  
Price gouging is defined as the increase in prices or value for goods and services that are higher than the prices ordinarily charged for comparable goods and services at or immediately before the time of a state of emergency.  Penalties include civil penalties, restitution to consumers, fines, and imprisonment.
Report suspected price gouging to your local law enforcement agency. For more information on price gouging or tips for victims of natural disasters, contact Attorney General Jeff Landry’s Consumer Protection Section at 800-351-4889. 

MS. Man Indicted in Rape of 8-year-old in Slidell

Source: Lisa Frazier Page, Communications Director of District Attorney Warren Montgomer's Office
A St. Tammany Parish grand jury indicted Lloyd Joseph Weysham (61), of Kiln, Mississippi, Thursday (August 24, 2017) of first degree rape of a victim under 13.
Weysham is accused of raping an 8-year-old girl who had been left in his care in a Slidell home in June of this year. The 11-year-old sister of the victim told authorities that she witnessed the crime while pretending to be asleep and then called a family member to report the incident.
The family member contacted the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office, which arrested Weysham.

Obituary

Hubert Donald Warner
October 2, 1936 - August 23, 2017 

Obituary

Burt Aymond, Jr.
November 29, 1959 - August 23, 2017

Obituary

Shirley Bias Rogers
March 27, 1938 - August 22, 2017

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 24, 2017

Michael Williams was booked 08/24 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court (4 counts)
Dustin Glover was booked 08/24 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Breanna McNeese was booked 08/24 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Toby Miller was booked 08/24 on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Failure to Pay Fine, and Failure to Appear (2 counts)

Man Accused in Amite Jail Beating Death Pleads Guilty to Theft of Firearms

ANTWON SEYMORE (19) pled guilty yesterday (August 24, 2017) to theft of firearms from a premises owned by a federally-licensed firearms dealer and aiding-and-abetting. According to the court documents, SEYMORE, and a juvenile broke into The Tickfaw Auction Company and stole 25 handguns. 
SEYMORE faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, and/or a fine of $250,000, and three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. U.S. District Judge Lance M. Africk set sentencing on November 16, 2017.
Seymore is one of several men who stand accused of the beating death of Tommy Joe Smith of Independence. All were inmates in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite on January 30, 2017, when Smith was brutally attacked by multiple offenders, according to authorities. There has been no disposition in that case. 

Outgoing Franklinton Chamber Executive Director Honored

The Franklinton Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors honored outgoing Executive Director, Linda E. Crain, at their monthly meeting on Wednesday, August 23rd at Sugar Shack.  FCC President Coylean Schloegel presented Linda with a plaque honoring her leadership and dedicated service from 2007-2017, and a gift basket filled with goodies. 
Linda Pascale is Linda Crain's replacement as Executive Director.

Pearl River Fair and Rodeo Starting This Weekend

The Pearl River County Fair and Rodeo in Poplarville kicks off this year on Saturday, August 26 and ends Tuesday, September 5. The schedule of events include a horse show, two rodeo times, and a pet show. There will be exhibits, displays, booths, and carnival rides.  
For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/PearlRiverCountyFairRodeo/

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 23, 2017

Jennifer Dubea was booked 08/23 on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts)
Davis Gomez was booked 08/23 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts)
Brittany Regan was booked 08/23 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts)
Jasmine Magee was booked 08/23 on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Simple Battery

Obituary

Susan Batton Sumrall Bush
February 28, 1930 - August 23, 2017 

Obituary

Richard Wiley Ridgedell
May 21, 1946 - August 23, 2017

Two Felony Suspects Nabbed at Courthouse in Amite

Working on a tip, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff detectives went to the courthouse in Amite yesterday (August 23, 2017) and found Stephan Thomas (32) waiting patiently. Thomas, who was wanted by STPSO for a home invasion that occurred in Tickfaw in September of 2016 and by ATF on a weapons charge, was in court on unrelated charges. 
Oddly enough, while at the courthouse, detectives observed Deande Wheeler (22) who was wanted by TPSO on the charges of principle to second degree murder and accessory to second degree murder for his alleged participation in the murder of  Leroy Sims III  (19) on July 31,2017. Consequently, Wheeler was also taken into custody and transported to the parish jail for processing.

Bogalusa Teens Arrested for Angie Burglary

Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office responded Tuesday (August 22, 2017) to a report of firearms stolen during a residential burglary on Powerline Road in Angie. As detectives were investigating the matter, Patrol Sgt. Anthony Jones made a routine traffic stop which led to information about the burglary and the individuals involved.

Following up on the leads, officers were able to identify William Brumfield (17) and   Timothy Rester (17) as the two burglars. They also identified Brittany Ard (18) as an accessory to the crime. All three were arrested and placed in the Washington Parish Jail.
It was determined that the theft of numerous firearms occurred after Brumfield and Rester had visited the Powerline Road residence. Detective Damon Mitchell tracked the firearms to a buyer in Meridian, Mississippi. Mitchell requests that any persons who might have purchased firearms or other property from any of the three arrested suspects notify him at (985) 661-2021, ext. 2054.

Alert: Tropical Storm Harvey May Impact Us

Sandbags Available in Bogalusa

In preparation for the threat of Tropical Storm Harvey, The City of Bogalusa will have sand available (10 bag limit) to the public in 3 different locations. Bring a shovel to fill your own, as locations are self-serve. 
The three locations are the Avenue B Sports Complex, the North end of Austin Street, and the Main Street Ball Park.
Elderly and disabled can pick up pre-filled sandbags in the Public Works yard behind the police station on Friday, 8/25/17 from 12:00-2:00 P.M., with proof of residency.

Man Wanted for Questioning by Bogalusa Police

The Bogalusa Police Dept is currently looking for Isaac Newkirk pictured here. Newkirk is wanted for questioning at this time. If you have any information on the whereabouts of Newkirk, please contact the Bogalusa Detective Division at (985) 732-6238 or 36 or 985 750-3090 or 911.

Senator Beth Mizell Town Hall Meeting in Franklinton

Obituary

Charles Dewitt Strickland
May 13, 1947 - August 22, 2017

Obituary

Jerry Antoine VerdinSeptember 3, 1947 - August 19, 2017

Obituary

Raleigh Odell Lucas, Sr.
September 2, 1919 - August 19, 2017

Obituary

Marie Pigott Marshall
September 4, 1946 - August 18, 2017

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 22, 2017

Jarus Dillon was booked 08/22 on the charges of Disturbing the Peace (Loud and Abusive Language) and Criminal Damage to Property
Travis Hawkins was booked 08/22 on the charges of Speeding 31-40 Over Limit, Driving Under Suspension, Resisting an Officer and Possession of Schedule II Drugs
William Brumfield was booked 08/22 on the charges of Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Burglary of an Inhabited Dwelling
Emmitt Warren was booked 08/22 on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Theft of Goods, No Seat Belt and Contempt of Court
Darnell Brock was booked 08/22 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Heroin, Excessive Noise, Failure to Pay Fine, Contempt of Court (2 counts), and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs
Destyn Freeman was booked 08/22 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Failure to Appear
Nicolas Vaughn was booked 08/22 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction (2 counts) and Contempt of Court (4 counts)
Brittany Ard was booked 08/22 on the charge of Accessory After the Fact
Timothy Rester was booked 08/22 on the charges of Burglary of an Inhabited Dwelling, Theft of Firearm, and Contempt of Court (2 counts)

Blood Drive This Friday at Riverside Medical

This Friday (August 25, 2017) from 11am to 4pm there will be a blood drive at Riverside Medical Center. The goal is 30 units so we are asking everyone that can to please donate. The Blood mobile will be in front of the hospital and everyone that gives will receive a t-shirt and scratch off lottery ticket.

BPD Books Two on Drug Charges After Traffic Stop

Source: Bogalusa Police Department Press Release
A Bogalusa Police Department Officer made a traffic stop on Marshall Richardson Road Monday, (August 21, 2017) on a vehicle leaving the Dollar General Store parking lot on Avenue F due to a passenger not wearing his seat belt. The driver was identified as Darnell Brock (27) of Franklinton and the passenger was identified as Emmitt Warren (32) of Tylertown.
Officers observed in plain view a syringe and a spoon on the passenger floorboard. As Warren exited the vehicle, officers observed his pants bulging in the leg area. Warren had concealed stolen items in his pants that he had just shoplifted from the Dollar General. Warren also was wanted by the Franklinton Police Department for failure to appear in court.
Brock was searched and a metal container was located in his sock that contained crack cocaine. Another metal container was located in Brock's pants that contained a small baggie of heroin and Clonazepam pills. Brock also didn't have a drivers license.
A search of the vehicle's interior found Xanax pills and crystal meth inside of a cigarette pack.
Warren was arrested and charged with Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Theft of Goods, Safety Belt Use and a Fugitive from an outside Agency. Brock was arrested and charged with Possession of Cocaine, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Methamphetimine, 2 counts of Possession of Schedule 4 Narcotics  and Emanation of Excessive Sound or Noise (illegal PA speaker). 

SPD Seeking Armed Robbery Suspect

Slidell Police are asking for the public’s assistance with identifying a man who robbed Advance America (3971 Pontchartrain Drive) this morning (August 22, 2017) at around 10:30 am. 
Witnesses say a black male entered the business, brandished a firearm, and demanded cash. The suspect got away with an undisclosed amount of money and fled the area. The suspect is described to be a middle aged black male, approximately 5’6” to 5’8” tall, average build, wearing a grey hoodie, dark colored pants (possibility blue Dickey’s pants), and a hat with the Pittsburg Pirates logo. 
If you have any information about this robbery, please call Detective Richard Walden 985-646-6173 or rwalden@slidellpd.com. Tipsters may also call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 21, 2017

David Mingo was booked 08/21 on the charges of Contempt of Court, Failure to Appear, and Attachment (2 counts)
Bruce Eglesfield was booked 08/21 on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery

Former Washington Parish Business Owner Sentenced

Source: Washington Parish Sheriff's Office Press Release
Hussein Ali Faour (43), a resident of Franklinton and former Washington Parish business owner, was arrested in June of 2016 by the WPSO and charged with 36 counts of Failure To Account For Local Tax Monies and 36 counts of Evasion of Tax.  
This was the first time in the history of Washington Parish that the Sheriff has made a criminal case against any person for failure to remit collected sales tax. It was a precedent setting case for the 22nd Judicial District Court.
Faour pled guilty to all charges on August 4, 2017. He was sentenced to one year of hard labor on each of the 36 counts of Failure to Account for Local Tax Monies and five years at hard labor on each of the 36 counts of Evasion of Tax; however, the sentences were suspended and he was placed on three years of probation.
As part of the conditions of probation, Faour must pay a monthly supervision fee of $71 and make restitution in an amount to be determined at a restitution hearing on September 27, 2017.

The Next Battle of the Businesses Softball Tournament!

Franklinton Chamber of Commerce Executive Director Linda Pascale says you should make your plans now for the next Battle of the Businesses Softball Tournament!. The family-friendly fun event is scheduled to begin promptly at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, October 7th, at the Franklinton Girl’s Softball Field.
If you want to play, but don’t have a full team, contact Sarah at 985-515-0720. She can hook you up! If you don’t want to play on a team, but want to join the fun, come on out and cheer for your favorite team. There’ll be door prizes, a 50/50 drawing, and of course, some really good food.

Obituary

Josie Hartzog
Died August 20, 2017

Obituary

Maudine Hall Burch
November 13, 1927 - August 18, 2017

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 19-20, 2017

Suzanne Sawner was booked 08/19 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Careless Operation
Stanley Miller was booked 08/19 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) and Failure to Pay Fine
Kevin Robichaux was booked 08/19 on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Driving While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Careless Operation, and Open Container in Vehicle
Daisy McCarty was booked 08/20 on the charges of Second Degree Battery, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, and Contributing to Delinquency of Juvenile
James Buckley was booked 08/20 on the charges of Aggravated Battery and Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Saul Addison was booked 08/20 on the charges of Distribution of Schedule III Drugs, Drug Free Zone Violation of Uniform CDS, and Possession of Schedule V Drugs

Obituary

Richard E. Pittman
February 9, 1957 - August 19, 2017

2-year-old Slidell Toddler Drowns in Pool

A family gathering in Slidell turned tragic Saturday evening (August 19, 2017) after a 2-year-old girl drowned. Desperate attempts were made to revive the toddler by both family members and medical personnel after family members found their 2-year-old daughter in the bottom of their swimming pool.  Unfortunately, the young girl was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital later Saturday evening.
According to witnesses, the 2-year-old was out of sight for just a few seconds when she apparently fell into the pool. 
Slidell Police Chief Randy Fandal says, “This is any parents worse nightmare. Some question how something like this could happen, but we’ve seen it time and time again. Tragedy strikes so quickly…even within a few seconds, no matter how careful you are. When a tragic incident like this happens, it affects everyone in the community, including the first responders. Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family. They will need all the support they can get during this difficult time.”

STPSO K-9 Aids Picayune PD Catch Fugitive

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s K-9 Division helped to apprehend a fugitive Thursday, aiding our partners in Mississippi.
Picayune Police Department requested assistance from the STPSO in a pursuit that originated in their jurisdiction, but crossed over into St. Tammany Parish. Picayune PD advised that the driver of the vehicle got stuck in the mud while trying to flee, abandoned the vehicle and continued to flee into the swamp on foot. 
One of our K-9 handlers responded to call for assistance and the perpetrator gave up after K-9 Marko conducted a civil apprehension on the subject. 
The subject was ultimately booked into the STPSO Jail as a fugitive awaiting extradition back to Mississippi.

Obituary

Dustin Allen McCain
October 26, 1999 - August 15, 2017

Angie Woman Killed in Head-On Crash Near Varnado

Friday (August 18, 2017) night, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two vehicle fatal crash on LA 436-1 south of Varnado. The crash has claimed the life of Hazel Marie Caruso (71) of Angie.
Troopers determined Caruso's vehicle entered the opposing lane of traffic and crashed head-on into a vehicle driven by Josie Leslie Hartzog (66) of Angie.  
Caruso was not wearing her seatbelt. She was severely injured in the crash and was subsequently airlifted from the scene in critical condition. During the flight, Caruso experienced complications and succumbed to her injuries. Hartzog and two of her passengers were all wearing their seatbelts. They suffered minor to moderate injuries in the crash and were transported to St. Tammany Parish Hospital by ambulance.

Washington Parish Jail Booking Information for August 18, 2017

Briana Sky Lee was booked 08/18 on the charge of Contempt of Court
Eric Causey was booked 08/18 on the charges of Loitering and Contempt of Court
Jamie Pilarczyk was booked 08/18 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Schedule IV Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Heroin, and Drug Free Zone Violation of Uniform CDS
Chelsea Whaley was booked 08/18 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Drug Free Zone Violation of Uniform CDS, and Failure to Appear (3 counts)
Montel McClain was booked 08/18 on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs

Arrest Made After Princess Abita Statue Damaged

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s detectives have arrested Andrew Corkern (20) of Mandeville for damaging and stealing a portion of the town-owned bronze Princess Abita statue last month.
On July 23, a vendor from the Abita Community Market contacted the Sheriff’s Office after he noticed the bronze feather was missing off the town’s statue. An investigation led detectives to obtain a warrant for Corkern’s arrest on August 3. The investigation also uncovered that Corkern was accompanied by other individuals, some of which are underage. A search warrant was executed at Corkern’s residence, but the bronze feather was not recovered.
Corkern was charged with Simple Criminal Damage $500-50,000, Theft Under $750, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile
If anyone has information about this case, please call Det. Stephen Lucia at 985-276-1337.

Obituary

Versie Lou Overstreet
August 12, 1940 - August 18, 2017 

Obituary

Mary Estelle Foster Raborn
September 21, 1942 - August 18, 2017

Masonic Lodge Donates Stuffed Animals to FPD

The Franklinton Masonic Lodge #101 has made a donation that is expected to be put to good use. A supply of stuffed animals was donated to Franklinton Police Chief Olander Smith. Officers will keep the stuffed animals on hand for use when working with young victims, as a means of comfort during tough times they are facing. 
Pictured along with Chief Smith are Greg Barber, Jerome Walker, and Ricky Bellinger.