U.S. Marshall's Task Force Nail Two Today in St. Tammany

A St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office detective, who is assigned to the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Apprehension Task Force, assisted Friday in two apprehensions, a murder suspect and a wanted sex offender/child predator.

Silvano Echavarria (23), wanted for the beating death of an elderly man at a Pasadena, Texas apartment complex, was arrested Friday morning (August 31, 2018) by members of the Task Force in Lacombe. He was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail as a fugitive out of Harris County, Texas.

Friday afternoon (August 31, 2018), the STPSO detective assigned to the Task Force saw Jerry Ray Webb (27) walking with another individual near the intersection of North Street near Highway 11. Webb is a wanted sex offender/child predator and was arrested and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on multiple warrants related to failing to register as a sex offender.

ARREST CANCER: A Benefit for Patrick Lyons

Meeting: Purchase Property Starting at $0 + Closing

How to Become a Foster Parent meeting is Sept. 6

Obituary

Joe Leo Crain, Sr.
December 7, 1945 - August 30, 2018

MS. Man Booked With Crimes Against Children/More Victims Feared

The offices of Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry and Mississippi Attorney General Jim Hood have teamed up to arrest Rudolph Lurding (56) of Southhaven, Mississippi for crimes committed against children in Tangipahoa Parish.

Following an investigation, General Landry’s Cyber Crime Unit issued a warrant for the crimes Lurding  allegedly committed while living in Louisiana.

General Hood’s Office, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office, the Gulfport Police Department, the Southaven Police Department, the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI Child Exploitation Task Force worked together to locate Lurding, arrest him, and book him into the DeSoto Country Detention Center. He has since been transported to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail where he was booked on three counts of Production of Sexual Abuse Images/Videos of Children (under the age of 13) and three counts of Sexual Battery (under the age of 13).

“The Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) taskforce is one of the best tools law enforcement has to help find child predators once they cross state lines,” said General Landry. “We thank our ICAC partners in Mississippi and those throughout the country for their commitment to protecting children.”

“Unfortunately, we fear that there are more victims in Louisiana - most likely on the Northshore,” added General Landry. “So I urge anyone with information regarding Mr. Lurding to call our office immediately at 800-256-4506.”

Obituary

Travis D Vice
January 29, 1978 - August 25, 2018

Obituary

Hilda B Kilbourne
May 11, 1934 - August 21, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 30, 2018

Shavonna Crosby was booked 08/30 In From Court and on the charge of Attachment
Wendy Williams was booked 08/30 In From Court
Trevor Vince was booked 08/30 on the charges of Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated criminal Damage to Property, Contributing to Delinquency of a Juvenile, and Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot
Cody Phelps was booked 08/30 on the charge of Obstruction of Justice

Bogalusa City Jail Bookings for August 29-30, 2018

Leslie D. Lambert was booked 08/29 on the charges of 4 counts of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Jonnny N. Cardwell was booked 08/29 on the charge of Theft
Kyleir T. Lee was booked 08/30 on the charges of 1st Offense Driving While Intoxicated, Driving While License is Suspended and No Insurance
Eron C. Williams was booked 08/30 on the charge of Simple Battery
Samantha M. Creel was booked 08/30 on the charges of Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)

Today in History for August 31st

Franklinton Aldermen Action on Blighted Properties

In a further effort to address blighted properties in the Town of Franklinton, the Franklinton Board of

Aldermen voted Tuesday (August 28, 2018) to publish the below letter. To watch video of meeting, click here. Discussion about the blighted property issue begins at 15:10 into the meetings.

"While a small group in Franklinton has already received letters from Franklinton Town Hall requiring their property be cleaned up, the ordinances that enforce landowners to clean up blighted properties will be more strictly enforced in the near future. The Mayor and Board of Aldermen along with the Town’s Code Enforcement Officer will begin enforcing ordinances that have been on the books for many years.

The Town realizes that the problem of blight didn’t happen overnight and won’t be corrected overnight, but a start to correct the problem must begin. Initial letters will require landowners to perform tasks such as mowing grass on their properties and removing other wild growth such as vines. Chapter 21 of the Town’s Code of Ordinances also addresses “junk, trash, garbage, debris, discarded or unused objects, equipment, machinery appliances and other unsightly accumulations.”

Chapter 21 also applies to a property owner or occupant who has “junked, wrecked, partially dismantled, discarded or otherwise nonoperating motor vehicles” on property for longer than 10 days.

Owners of blighted property will be given a 20 day written notice from the Town to address their problem of blight. If property owners or occupants fail to comply after 20 days, “the Town shall take the necessary action to cut said grass, weeds or other wild growth, and charge the cost thereof to the said property owner or occupant by adding the same to his water bill or real estate tax, whichever is more convenient for the town.”

Violators who fail to comply after 20 days “shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor, and upon conviction thereof, shall be fined an amount not exceeding two hundred fifty dollars ($250.00) or be imprisoned in the parish jail for a period not exceeding ten (10) days, or be required to perform community service for a period not exceeding ten (10) days.” Violators will appear before the Town Magistrate who will determine penalties.

The Town of Franklinton asks all property owners or occupants to begin voluntarily complying with these rules. To find Chapter 21 in its entirety, please go to www.TownofFranklinton.com and click “Code of Ordinances” near the top left of the website."

Bogalusa Firefighters Auxillary Fish Plates for Sept. 14

Increased Access to Health Services in Covington Announced

Today (August 30, 2018), START, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1984, announced plans to open a Federally Qualified Health Center (FQHC) at 1505 N. Florida Street in Covington, which for 20 years has housed the STPH Community Wellness Center (CWC).

The START FQHC will continue to provide the services formerly available through CWC with the same familiar staff, plus increase services and enhance programs to provide affordable health services with a special focus on low-income, uninsured and under-insured individuals. New services available in the FQHC will include primary care, psychiatric care, substance abuse services, behavioral health counseling and assessment. The center will continue to provide the following services formerly provided by CWC: WIC (Women, Infants and Children Food Supplement Program), immunizations, Medicaid applications and pregnancy testing.

“We welcome START into our community as the next improvement in community wellness for our patients,” Kerry Milton RN BSN MHA, chief nursing officer of STPH, said. “Our collaboration with St. Tammany Parish government for the past 20 years has been an excellent solution to the loss of a public health unit in 2000, but now patients will have improved access to healthcare resources as START launches this FQHC in its place.”

CWC will transition to the START Corporation on September 1. Clients already relying on services of the CWC will see no loss or reduction in services, and the START team intends to launch all new services beginning September 1.

Access to Ponchatoula School Closed After Threat

UPDATE: (3:31 pm). News Release

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office reports that at 7:45 am today (August 30, 2018), a domestic incident occurred between Chad Milton (39) of Ponchatoula and his wife, an employee of Martha Vinyard Elementary School. Chad Milton has an active protective order against him and arrived on campus to speak with his wife who is listed as the protected person in the order. When she refused to communicate with him, the suspect ran his truck into her parked car on the school parking lot and then fled.

Chad Milton then began sending alarming text messages to the victim, one of which displayed a photo of an assault rifle. School officials immediately contacted TPSO and Sheriff Edwards deployed all available resources and requested assistance from the Louisiana State Police, Louisiana State Police DPS, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries and US Customs. The elementary school as well as nearby Ponchatoula High School was quickly surrounded by law enforcement and all available access areas to the school were blocked by law enforcement. 

An immediate search for Chad Milton began. During he investigation, TPSO detectives learned that Chad Milton returned to his property and acquired weapons. However, the family assisted in contacting Chad Milton and he contacted a TPSO detective and stated he did not want to run anymore. Detectives then placed him n custody without incident at his residence. Milton will be charged with violation of a protective order, terrorizing, and hit and run.


Sheriff Edwards commends the actions of the school principal Melissa Ryan, Tangipahoa School Superintendent Melissa Stilley and her staff. They did an outstanding job in their efforts to keep the children of Martha Vinyard safe during this incident.

UPDATE: (12:17 pm). TPSO advises that Milton is in custody and that details surrounding his arrest will be released later this afternoon.



The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office is currently (9:38 am on Thursday, August 30, 2018) at Martha Vineyard Elementary School in Ponchatoula where a threat was made against an employee. The domestic related incident began this morning outside of the Elementary School.

After leaving the scene, the suspect Chad Milton (39) of Ponchatoula, allegedly sent the victim threatening text messages. At this time, deputies are not allowing access to or from the school and have Dunson Road closed and secured as a precaution.

Anyone knowing the whereabouts of Chad Milton is asked to contact the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office at 985-345-6150.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 29, 2018

Recko McElveen was booked 08/29 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Operation, and Expired Drivers License
Chanda Thomas was booked 08/29 on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Michael Williams was booked 08/29 on the charges of Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
James Brumfield was booked 08/29 on the charges of Theft 5000 or More but Less Than 25000 and Failure to Appear
Marteisha Lucas was booked 08/29 on the charges of Dissturbing the Peace/Fight and Criminal Damage
Kendrick Handy was booked 08/29 In For Court and on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Failure to Appear (3 counts)

Today in History for August 30th

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 30, 2018

Obituary

Bonnie Jean Shirley
January 25, 1937 - August 28, 2018

NTCC Announces New Adult Education Location in Franklinton

Come navigate your future at Northshore Technical Community College’s fall 2018 Adult Education program in Franklinton, Louisiana. Thanks to a classroom space donated by Washington St. Tammany Electric Coop, NTCC’s Adult Education department will be offering classes in their training facility located at 846 Pearl Street in Franklinton.

“We are excited to be able to host NTCC’s Adult Education program at our training facility,” stated Charles Hill, CEO of WST Electric. Hill believes it’s “vitally important for the people of Franklinton and Washington Parish to have access to educational opportunities and the ability to provide space for our community is important to everyone at WST.”

A dedicated team of instructors prepare students for the HiSET exam to earn their high school equivalency diploma while readying them for a successful future in college or a career pathway. Our FREE classes are offered to qualified students at our locations in Slidell, Lacombe, Hammond, Greensburg, Bogalusa and Franklinton.

Completing both Registration and Placement Testing days (2 days) is required to successfully enroll in class. Those days are September 28 (9:00 am - 2:00 pm) and October 1 (9:00 am - 4:00 pm).

For more information, please contact us by email at adultedinfo@northshorecollege.edu or call 1-800-732-6640 (Extension 128).

FPD Chief Smith Gives Report/Remarks on Drug Overdoses

Following his monthly report, Franklinton Police Chief Olander Smith related that Washington Parish has had 67 drug overdoses from January 1-July 31, 2018. The Chief touched on efforts to help address the problem and indicated he will be gathering more information on this serious problem. (Watch video)

Chief Smith provided his department's stats and comments at the Franklinton Board of Aldermen meeting on August 28, 2018. Information provided is actually inclusive of July 23 to August 27, 2018. The report reflected a total of 793 Calls for Service, divided into the headings of Public Assistance, Traffic, and Criminal Patrol.

Responses for Public Assistance included general complaints (297), extra patrols (79), medical calls (47), alarms (35), and suspicious persons or vehicles (43). Traffic activity included traffic stops (110), vehicle crashes (21), hit and runs (3), reckless operation (10), DWI (4), and citations (43).
Criminal Patrol responses included disturbances (30), fights (5), simple battery (3), criminal damage to property (7), burglaries (3), theft and shoplifting (9), and narcotics (7). Officers made 33 total arrests.

Chief Smith also reported on the Washington Men's Club Teen Summit at Cassidy Park in Bogalusa, on meeting with Washington Parish School Superintendent Fairburn on school safety and active shooter issues, and other activities.

FPD Chief Olander Smith 08282018 from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Arkansas Man (83) Charged With Rape of Franklinton Girl (11)

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Tuesday (August 28, 2018) a Washington Parish grand jury indicted Clyde Waymon Williams (83) of Monette, Arkansas  on charges of first degree rape of a victim under 13 and sexual battery of a victim under 13.

Williams is accused of raping an 11-year-old girl at a hotel in Franklinton in December 2017.

Assistant District Attorney Ysonde Boland presented the case to the grand jury.

Williams was arrested on May 19, 2018 following a lengthy investigation conducted by the Franklinton Police Department.

Due to the age of the victim, additional information has being withheld.

Obituary

Madis Carolyn Martin Russell
October 21, 1940 - August 26, 2018

Obituary

Freddie Ealner Magee
December 19, 1940 - August 20, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 28, 2018

Anthony Morris was booked 08/28 on the charges of Battery of a Dating Partner, Cruelty to a Juvenile(s), and Dating Partner Abuse/Child Endangerment/Simple Battery (4 counts)
Richard Mosely was booked 08/28 on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Simple Burglary, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Alton Fields was booked 08/28 on the charges of Failure to Appear (7 counts)
Trinity Cossich was booked 08/28 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Loud and Abusive Language
Larry Harrison was booked 08/28 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Bogalusa City Jail Bookings for August 28, 2018

William S. Ratley was booked 08/28 on the charges of Theft of Identity and Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Felica L. Jefferson was booked 08/28 on the charges of Entry or Remaining after being Forbidden, Public Drunkenness and Resisting an Officer
Peggy R. Mezquite was booked 08/28 on the charges of Entry or Remaining after being Forbidden and Driving While License is Suspended

Today in History for August 29th

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 29, 2018

Another Scam Alert

St Tammany Sheriff Randy Smith wants to make residents aware of a group of individuals who appear to be in the area posing as contractors in an attempt to scam homeowners.

On August 15, 2018, an elderly resident in Slidell was home alone when three white males came to her house unsolicited posing as roofing contractors. The individuals spoke very convincingly, gained the trust of the elderly homeowner and managed to enter the residence without objection.

They were trying to convince the homeowner the house needed roofing repair, when her husband returned and spoiled their attempts to scam the elderly woman. The men fled in a white Ford F150 with a black bed cover. The license plate was blocked by a piece of hanging carpet.

After the men left, the homeowners discovered jewelry missing from one of the bedrooms.
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s detectives have received similar reports from two other homeowners in the Lake Village area of Slidell. The suspects are believed to be transients who conduct these scams in numerous jurisdictions, targeting the elderly. They will steal valuables from the residence and scam homeowners out of large sums of money.

If you have information about these individuals or believe you may be a victim of their scam, please contact Detective Smith at (985) 726-7829 or call (985) 898-2338.

Obituary

Johnny Williams
November 29, 1944 - August 26, 2018

Want to be the Next Washington Parish Fair Queen?

Obituary

Blenna Ann Brumfield
October 30, 1946 - August 28, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 26-27, 2018

Joshua McKenzie was booked 08/26 on the charges of Theft 1000 or More But Less Than 5000 and Theft Less Than 1000
Aaron Taylor was booked 08/27 on the charge of Failure to Appear
Lisa Dunaway was booked 08/27 on the charges of Parole Violation and Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Tony Wells was booked 08/27 on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts)
Michael Crosby was booked 08/27 on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 (8 counts), Forgery (4 counts), and Vehicle Burglary
Crystal Duncan was booked 08/27 on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise (2 counts)

Bogalusa City Jail Bookings for August 27, 2018

Kenrick L. Lampley was booked to serve sentence from the Bogalusa City Court
Alton D. Fields was booked on the charges of Fugitive from Columbia, MS Police Department, Resisting an Officer and 2 counts of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Richard A. Rogers was booked on the charge of Criminal Damage to Property
Myesha S. Anderson was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)

Today in History for August 28th

Bogalusa City Jail Bookings for August 24-26, 2018

Joshua N. McKenzie was booked 08/24 on the charges of 2 counts of Theft
Chad J. Lorio was booked 08/24 to serve sentence from the Bogalusa City Court
Erik M. Smith was booked 08/24 on the charges of 3 counts of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Aquenteya Q. Rogers was booked 08/24 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Michael R. Ishman was booked 08/25 on the charge of Vehicular Negligent Injury, No Insurance, Driving While License is Suspended, Hit and Run and 1st Offense Driving While Intoxicated
Tiffany M. Anderson was booked 08/25 on the charges of Disturbing the Peace by Fighting, Aggravated Assault and Criminal Damage to Property
Dexter L. Talley was booked 08/25 on the charges of Disturbing the Peace by Fighting and Criminal Damage to Property
Leekiba T. Gholar was booked 08/25 on the charge of Public Drunkenness
John F. Arrington was booked 08/25 on the charges of Theft and Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Jemetria J. Newell was booked 08/25 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Anthony W. Morris was booked 08/26 on the charges of 4 counts of Battery of a Dating Partner/Child Endangerment, Battery of a Dating Partner and Cruelty to a Juvenile
Aaron T. Taylor was booked 08/26 on the charges of Theft, Simple Battery and a Fugitive from the Washington Parish Sheriff's Department

Crash Claims Life of Off-Duty NOPD Officer from Bush

Saturday afternoon (August 25, 2018), Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two vehicle crash involving a motorcycle on LA 1082 (Old Military Rd.) north of LA 21 in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of off-duty New Orleans Police Officer Ricardo Jesus Silva, Jr. (26) of Bush.

Troopers determined that Silva was riding a 2017 Honda motorcycle southbound on LA 1082, Jennifer P. Robinson (52) of Covington was in a 2017 Acura MDX traveling northbound on LA 1082. The Acura crossed into the southbound lane in an attempt to turn left into a private drive. Silva’s motorcycle crashed into the right side of Robinson’s Acura. The impact caused Silva to become separated from his vehicle and he sustained severe injuries in the crash.

Silva was treated at the scene and transported to St. Tammany Parish Hospital, where he ultimately succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. Robinson was uninjured.

The investigation is ongoing, and any criminal or traffic violations will be forwarded to the St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office pending the completion of the investigation.

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 27, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 25, 2018

Christian Betanzo was booked 08/25 on the charge of Driving While Intoxicated
Joshua Grimes was booked 08/25 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Kenneth Harry was booked 08/25 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Dudley lilly was booked 08/25 on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Open Container in Vehicle and Careless Operation

Today in History for August 26th

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 24, 2018

Dylan Miley was booked 08/24 on the charge of Failure to Appear
Linda Hartzog was booked 08/24 on the charges of Probation Violation and Failure to Appear
Ashley Hartzog was booked 08/24 In From Court
Montrell Quinn was booked 08/24 on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Tampering With Sign Identifying a Firearm Free Zone, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Obituary

Mason Tanner Burch
August 19, 1998 - August 23, 2018

Independence Man Pleads Guilty in Child Porn Case

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced Roy David Melancon (40) of Independence pleaded guilty Thursday (August 23, 2018) to a one-count Indictment charging him with receipt of images and videos depicting the sexual exploitation of children.

According to court documents, law enforcement officials executed a search warrant at Melancon's residence on February 20, 2018. Special agents with the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation seized electronic items, including one cellular telephone and one Amazon Kindle Fire tablet that contained images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of children, some less than three (3) months old.

Agents determined that Melancon also sought and traded images and videos depicting the sexual victimization of children via a cell phone application. The forensic examination located not fewer than 1,000 images and 200 videos depicting the sexual victimization of children on Melancon's digital devices.

Melancon faces a mandatory minimum of five (5) years and a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment, followed by up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000. He can also be required to register as a sex offender. Sentencing has been scheduled for November 15, 2018.

Today in History for August 25th

Will the Bogalusa and Washington Parish School Systems be Consolidated?

The first meeting of the Bogalusa City Schools/Washington Parish Schools systems Consolidation Commission will be held Monday, September 17, 2018 at 5:30 pm at the Bogalusa School Board Media Center on Sullivan Drive in Bogalusa. The purpose of the commission is to study the feasibility of consolidating the Bogalusa City and Washington Parish school systems, achieving one unified school district.

The commission was established by Act 413 (click here to read), sponsored by Louisiana State Senator Beth Mizell (District 12) and Louisiana State Representative Malinda Brumfield-White (District 75) and signed by the Governor on May 23, 2018. The commission consists of 24 members, serving without pay or per-diem. At least monthly meetings are required by the Act, with the meetings to alternate between Bogalusa and Franklinton and will be open to the public.

The commission is tasked to submit a written report of its findings, conclusions, and recommendations to the Bogalusa City School Board and the Washington Parish School Board not later than August 31, 2019.

If the commission determines that consolidating the two school systems is in the best interest of the students, each school board will pass a resolution calling for an election to gain voter approval of the consolidation.

Bogalusa City Jail Bookings for August 22-23, 2018

Montrell L. Quinn was booked 08/22 on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Illegal Carrying of a Weapon, Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Firearm Free Zone
Derriona N. Buckley was booked 08/22 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Kevin L. Robertson was booked 08/23 on the charges of Public Drunkenness and Resisting an Officer
Keenan A. Moses was booked 08/23 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Steven W. Cotton was booked 08/23 on the charges of 3 counts of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Adam C. Branch was booked 08/23 on the charges of 2 counts of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court) and a Bond Surrender
Cameron J. Davis was booked 08/23 on the charges of Simple Burglary and Theft of a Firearm
Terry Jefferson was booked 08/23 on the charges of 2 counts of Resisting an Officer and 4 counts of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 23, 2018

Alton Wilson was booked 08/23 on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise (2 counts)
Kristin Schloegel was booked 08/23 In From Court
Jonathan Esteve was booked 08/23 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Corey Ruffin was booked 08/23 on the charge of Failure to Appear

Today in History for August 24th

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 24, 2018

Councilwoman Kates on the Reopening of the Poplas Quarter Recreational Center

The following was submitted (and is presented unedited) by Bogalusa Councilwoman (District A) Gloria Kates. Click "Read More" for her submission.

Body of Man Found at Carwash in Franklinton

Franklinton Police Chief Olander Smith confirmed this afternoon (August 23, 2018) that the body of a man was found in a car at the car-wash near the Burger King Restaurant this morning.

The death is under investigation and the man's name is not being released at this time.

Hammond Police Officer Arrested by TPSO

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports the arrest on Wednesday (August 22, 2018) of Brad Core (44) of Hammond and a member of the Hammond Police Department at the time of his arrest.

Warrants were obtained Wednesday charging Core with sexual battery, oral sexual battery, carnal knowledge of a juvenile, and contributing to the delinquency of a minor. Core surrendered to TPSO detectives without incident Wednesday night.

This investigation remains on-going.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 22, 2018

Zachary Davis was booked 08/22 In From Court
Branden Knight was booked 08/22 In From Court
Thomas Davis was booked 08/22 In From Court
Charles Merritt was booked 08/22 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Obstruction of Justice, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Lamontae Roberts was booked 08/22 on the charge of Failure to Appear

Two Hammond Men Die in Separate Crashes Wednesday

On Wednesday morning (August 22, 2018), Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single vehicle fatal crash on LA 443 near Old Vineyard Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of Joseph Benny Cline (58) of Hammond. Troopers determined that Cline ran off the right side of the roadway, entered the ditch, and his vehicle rolled onto the driver's side and crashed into a utility pole. Cline sustained severe injuries in the crash. He was transported to North Oaks Medical Center, where he ultimately succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash.

On Wednesday afternoon (August 22, 2018, Troopers from Louisiana State Police responded to a two vehicle crash on LA 1040 (Old Baton Rouge Highway) in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of Dylan Slade McCarroll (30) of Hammond. Troopers determined that McCarroll ran off the right side of the roadway, steered sharply left and was struck in the opposing lane of traffic by a 2006 Peterbilt truck driven by Yousheng Wang (56) of Texas. McCarroll sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased on scene by the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner's Office. Wang was uninjured in the crash.

Today in History for August 23rd

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 23, 2018

Obituary

Perry James Barker
January 08, 1948 - August 19, 2018

Obituary

Douglas William Snell
October 9, 1939 - August 20, 2018

Visit The Wall That Heals Nov. 15-18 in Franklinton

Butterfly Release in Memory of Loved Ones is Sept. 30

$25,000 Stolen from Elderly Victim – Most Recovered

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriffs Office Financial Crimes Unit,  led by Detectives Travis Pitman and Michael D'Amato, have been able to recover most of the $25,000 taken fraudulently from an elderly victim.

The case was initiated on July 20, 2018 by a complaint from an elderly person's family member. The complainant had been contacted by the victim's bank about suspicious withdrawals from the victim's account. Detectives found that a $25,000 cashier's check from the victim's bank account was deposited into an account in Union, New Jersey. TPSO detectives obtained a search warrant and an asset seizure warrant and were able to recover $21,846.22 of the victims money before the alleged rotten scoundrels were able to liquidate the funds into cash.

TPSO detectives were also able to identify the alleged scoundrel as Luis Alicea (71) of New Jersey as the person who deposited the funds into the account. The Township of Union Police Department and the Union County Prosecutors Office have been notified and were given all of the information obtained for their continued investigation into this matter. The fraud scheme used in this case is known as a Jamaican Lottery Scam.  It targets elderly members of the community who have access to large sums of liquid assets.

On August 7, 2018, the hero detectives met with the victim's family and turned over the  recovered stolen funds in the amount of $21,846.22.

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriffs Office extends a special thanks to the banking personnel at Whitney / Hancock Bank who assisted in the investigation.



Pictured from left to right are TPSO Financial Crime Detectives Michael D'Amato, Travis Pitman, and Wanda Ledoux.

Two Accused in Tangipahoa Parish of “Heinous” Fraud

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports the arrests of Brooke Thibodeaux (28) of Baton Rouge and Heather Reichert-Jackson (23) of Denham Springs for Theft by Fraud in the amount of $900. The two were reported and captured on video in April, 2018 knocking on doors in Tangipahoa Parish while falsely presenting themselves as members of the Trinity Baptist Church in Pumpkin Center. These women were allegedly going door to door in the attempt to raise money for a young girl suffering from leukemia.

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriffs Office Financial Crimes Unit have been actively working the case. TPSO Detectives Travis Pitman and Michael D'Amato followed up on Crime Stopper's tips and partnered with community members to identify the two as the alleged perpetrators.

Both suspects allegedly admitted that their addiction to heroin is what fueled their heinous actions.

Bogalusa City Jail Bookings for August 21, 2018

William G. Tynes was booked 08/21 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Jason S. Barber was booked 08/21 on the charge of Obscenity
Tracy O. Burnett was booked 08/21 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Myishawn A. Burrell was booked 08/21 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace by Disorderly Conduct
Makayla Lucas was booked 08/21 on the charges of Simple Battery and Disturbing the Peace by Fighting
Jamichael T. Roberts was booked 08/21 on the charge of Hit and Run
Steven H. Brown was booked 08/21 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Kevin Jefferson was booked 08/21 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)

Two Tangi Juveniles (Aged 14 and 16) Caught After Pursuit

Two unnamed Tangipahoa Parish juveniles have been charged following a pursuit with a stolen vehicle Tuesday (August 21, 2018).

A St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputy observed a pickup truck matching the description of one that had been previously reported stolen Tuesday morning out of the Hammond area. The deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop but the drive failed to stop. The vehicle pursuit ended inside the city limits of Covington in the area of 24th Avenue and the driver and passenger fled on foot.

A perimeter was established with the assistance of Covington Police Department and the STPSO K-9 Division, and the driver and his passenger were quickly located, hiding inside a shed located behind a residence near where they had left the stolen pickup.

The two were booked into the Florida Parishes Juvenile Detention Center on charges of Possession of Stolen Property, Resisting Arrest, and Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 21, 2018

Brandon Ishee was booked 08/21 In For Court
Cory Holden was booked 08/21 on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs (2 counts)
Isaiah Alexander was booked 08/21 In For Court
Malcom Moses was booked 08/21 on the charge of Driving While Intoxicated
Keybian Lewis was booked 08/21 on the charges of No Seat Belt and Driving With Suspended License Due to Previous DWI
Megan Cowan was booked 08/21 on the charge of Failure to Honor Written Promise
Dustin McNabb was booked 08/21 on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Heroin, and Obstruction of Justice

Wild Game Supper and Archery Tournament in Pine

Today in History for August 22nd

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 22, 2018

Two Arrested Following Shooting in Loranger

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff Daniel Edwards reports the arrests of Kendrick Johnson, Jr. (27) of Baton Rouge and Montrey Taylor (17) of Independence for their involvement in a shooting that occurred on August 18, 2018 in Loranger. Shaun Toefield (17) of Loranger was sustained non-life threatening injuries and remains in a medical facility.

Johnson was charged with aggravated battery and Taylor was charged with inciting a felony, introduction of contraband-penal institute, violation of uniform controlled dangerous substance, and possession of schedule I drugs.

This investigation is active and on-going.   Additional arrest are believed to be forthcoming.

Bogalusa City Jail Bookings for August 15-20, 2018

Malcom Moses was booked 08/15 on the charge of Disturbing the Peace by Intoxication
Frank Cangelosi II was booked 08/15 on the charge of Simple Burglary (Vehicle)
Chad R. Goutierez was booked 08/16 on the charges of 3 counts Running a Stop Sign, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Driving While License is Suspended, No Insurance and Switched License Plate
DaQuandra O. Magee was booked 08/16 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Timothy J. Watts was booked 08/16 on the charges of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court) and Probation and Parole Hold
Cory C. Pearson was booked 08/16 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Adrian A. Magee was booked 08/16 on the charges of Resisting an Officer and Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Kelly Long was booked 08/16 on the charge of Theft
Rashanda L. Magee was booked 08/17 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Jason W. Roach was booked 08/17 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Ashley L. Bowman was booked 08/17 on the charge of Theft
Alex D. Myers was booked 08/17 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Colton P. Loomis was booked 08/17 on the charges of Driving while License is Suspended, Running a Stop Sign and Open Container Violation
Steven Crenshaw was booked 08/17 Driving While Intoxicated and Turn Signal Required
Bradley L. Jenkins was booked 08/18 on the charges of 2 counts of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Reginald B. Anders was booked 08/18 on the charges of Disturbing the Peace by Intoxication and Remaining After Being Forbidden
Gregory H. Thurman was booked 08/19 on the charges of Public Drunkenness and Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Larence Way was booked 08/20 on the charge of Criminal Trespass
Harlon D. Bazor was booked 08/20 on the charge of Discharging a Firearm.
Marion J. Catalano was booked 08/20 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)
Sean D. Lang was booked 08/20 to serve a sentence from the Bogalusa City Court
Tyrone McClain was booked 08/20 to serve a sentence from the Bogalusa City Court
Tiffany A. Rester was booked 08/20 on the charge of Failure to Appear (Bogalusa City Court)

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 19-20, 2018

John Hallenbeck was booked 08/19 on the charges of Driving Under Suspension and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Johnny Tarver was booked 08/19 In For Court and on the charges of Failure to Honor Written Promise (3 counts)
Justin Gunnell was booked 08/20 on the charges of No Taillight, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs
Tonious Clark was booked 08/20 on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (2 counts) and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia
Sheery Clark was booked 08/20 on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Romel Harris was booked 08/20 In From Court
Howard Holden was booked 08/20 on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) and Failure to Pay Fine
Demario Warren was booked 08/20 In For Court
Kelvin Jackson was booked 08/20 on the charge of Probation Violation and Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Linda Hartzog was booked 08/20 on the charges of Probation Violation and Failure to Appear
Arnold Gilmore was booked 08/20 on the charges of Simple Battery (2 counts) and Home Invasion/Ag Assault/Battery NIBRS 13A

Today in History for August 21st

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 21, 2018

Some of the Fair Entertainment Announced

The Washington Parish Fair Association has recently announced some of the entertainment we can look forward to during the fair this year.

• The face of quality Gospel Music, the quartet Triumphant, will be on stage Wednesday at 7 pm
• Louisiana’s own Chase Tyler Band will be opening for Sara Evans at the main stage on Thursday, October 18.  
• Multi-platinum country music entertainer Sara Evans will headline the 2018 fair, appearing on the main stage Thursday night, October 18. 
• Friday night openers will include Laine Hardy and Adam Doleac 
• The Award-winning duo Maddie & Tae will headline the Friday night acts on the main stage.
• Appearing on the main stage on Saturday evening@ 6 pm is Swingaroux, New Orleans Premiere Swing & Jazz Big Band. 
• As the 2018 Washington Parish Free Fair winds down on Saturday, October 20, Al “Lil Fat” Jackson will be appearing on the main stage at 8 pm

This is just “whets our appetite” for the entertainment that is only a part of the Washington Parish Free Fair.

Click here for the Washington Parish Free Fair Facebook page and the latest announcements

Latest on the Bogalusa Council's Tax Proposals

At their meeting on August 7, 2018, the Bogalusa Council approved three resolutions designed to address the underfunding of the City of Bogalusa's Employee's Retirement System (COBERS). The system's funding mechanism has proven inadequate over the years and, as of the end of 2017, the City has a net pension liability of more than $22 million. This is one of the reasons that the LLA has told the Council that a state takeover of the City's government may occur.

However, Mayor Wendy Perrette is quoted in a Bogalusa Daily News article as stating the Council “did not follow proper procedures and Tuesday’s actions will likely need to be rescinded.” Councilwoman Gloria Kates responded that the allegations were "ludicrous and an executive body witch hunt". Click here to read the article

THE LATEST
On August 17, 2018, the City posted Notices that include Notice of Public Meeting (to be held on September 18, 2018) and a second Notice of Public Meeting (for the September 21, 2018 Council meeting, including the Agenda). Click here to read the Notices

Apparently, the Council will consider a resolution on August 21, 2018 to repeal the resolution approved on August 7, 2018; also, the Council will consider a resolution(s) on September 18, 2018 to call a special election on December 8, 2018 asking voters to

• (i) authorize the levy of a new 3-mill property tax in the City for the purpose of paying retirement and pension benefits to the City of Bogalusa Employees Retirement System (“COBERS”), 
• (ii) rededicate 12.5% of the City’s 1% Sales Tax approved at an election held on March 15, 1955, for purpose of paying retirement and pension benefits to COBERS, and 
• (iii) rededicate half of the City’s 1/4 % Sales Tax approved at an election held on November 17, 2007, for purpose of paying retirement and pension benefits to COBERS. 

The Council was advised by Bradley Cryer, Assistant Legislative Auditor and Director of Local Government Audit Services, on July 18, 2018 that they have until September 30, 2018 to provide a firm corrective action plan or face the very real possibility that the City would be placed under a fiscal administrator. Click here to read the article and view the video

Theft Suspects Lead Slidell Police in High Speed Chase

After stealing over a thousand dollars worth of merchandise from six different Slidell business, the two accused thieves led Slidell Police on a high-speed chase Thursday (August 16, 2018), which ended on the Twin Spans.

Slidell Police had responded to several theft complaints, all of which involved a black Infinity M35 with a temporary Louisiana license plate. Officers observed the Infinity in the parking lot of Walgreens, attempted to stop it but the driver, Terry Sims (24) of New Orleans, fled from officers. A high-speed chase down Gause Boulevard and onto I-10 ended on the Twin Spans after three tires literally blew off the Infinity due to the reckless driving. Sims rode on the rims of the Infinity until both he and his passenger, Ieasha Theophile (27) of New Orleans, decided to jump out of the vehicle. Slidell Police quickly apprehended both Sims and Theophile. The two were taken to a local hospital for “road rash” due to them jumping out of the moving vehicle. They were later booked into the Slidell City Jail.

Theophile is facing six theft charges and Sims is facing six theft charges, hit and run, and aggravated flight from an officer. Merchandise from Rue 21, Academy Sports, Walgreens, At Home, Dollar General, and Bed Bath and Beyond were recovered from inside of the Infinity.

Louisiana State Police also assisted during the pursuit.

Obituary

Earlene R. Taylor
June 14, 1940 - August 17, 2018

Obituary

Derek McKinley Adams
April 11, 1981 - August 15, 2018

Today in History for August 20th

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 20, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 18, 2018

Brandon Wise was booked 08/18 on the charges of Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS and Failure to Appear (2 counts)
Calvin Brock was booked 08/18 on the charges of Speeding 11-20 Over Limit, No Insurance, Driving Under Suspension, Obstruction of Justice, and Switched License Plates
Joel Johnson was booked 08/18 on the charge of Second Degree Battery
Victoria Williams was booked 08/18 on the charge of Failure to Appear

Today in History for August 19th

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 17, 2018

Jason Roach was booked 08/17 on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction
Ritchie Martin was booked 08/17 on the charges of Obstructing Public Passages, Disturbing the Peace/Loud and Abusive Language, and Attachment
Tabitha Moore McBeth was booked 08/17 on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Chad Goutiere was booked 08/17 on the charges of Ran Stop Sign (3 counts), Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Driving Under Suspension, No Insurance, and Switched License Plates
Timmothy Watts was booked 08/17 on the charges of Probation and Parole Hold and Failure to Honor Written Promise

Obituary

Bettie Chelette Racine
May 13, 1931 - August 13, 2018

Today in History for August 18th

Last Day for Soccer Sign-Ups in Bogalusa is Tomorrow

Slidell Man Arrested on Child Pornography Charges

On Thursday (August 16, 2018), Troopers with the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit (SVU) along with FBI Agents arrested Benjamin Bell (52) of Slidell and charged him with 500 counts of Pornography involving juveniles.

The case began in July of 2017 when the FBI New Orleans Field Office and LSP Detectives were conducting online investigations into those who possess/distribute images of child pornography. Investigators observed files indicative of child pornography that were traced to an address in Slidell. In October of 2017 Investigators executed a search warrant on a residence in Slidell, and several electronic devices were seized as a result. The devices, which belonged to Bell, were forensically examined and numerous digital images containing child pornography were found.

Obituary

Dorothy Knight Gerhold
July 19, 1929 - August 16, 2018

Franklinton Woman Gets Life Sentence

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Margaret Stockstill (33) of Franklinton was sentenced to life in prison without parole Thursday (August 16, 2018) for killing her best friend’s fiancé. A St. Tammany Parish jury found Stockstill guilty of second degree murder for the crime after a week-long trial before District Judge Peter J. Garcia in June.

Stockstill fatally shot Cody Couch (27) on April 14, 2017 during an argument at the home he shared with his fiancé, Kristin Copeland. Click here for more details

Couch’s sister, Tina, read a statement from the couple’s 9-year-old son: “The hardest times are on Father’s Day, my birthday, and times when other kids have their dads around,” he said. “I have a hard time at night ‘cause I miss him so much.”

Other family members also gave statements about the impact of Couch’s death on them.

Garcia denied Stockstill’s request for a new trial. Assistant District Attorneys Blair Alford and Elizabeth Authement prosecuted the case.

Obituary

Katherine "Katie" Westmoreland McCain
March 11, 1977 - August 14, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 16, 2018

Justin Morris was booked 08/16 on the charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (2 counts)
Amanda Fenley was booked 08/16 on the charge of Attachment
Jesse Thomas was booked 08/16 on the charges of Failure to Appear (4 counts)
William Phelps was booked 08/16 on the charge of Contempt of Court
Nicholas Little was booked 08/16 on the charge of Simple Assault
Veronica Magee was booked 08/16 on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs (2 counts), and Driving Left of Center/Wrong Side of Highway
Ashlea Hobgood was booked 08/16 on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Schedule II Drugs
Joey Craddock was booked 08/16 on the charge of Failure to Comply Sex Offender Social Media Violation
Jamarcus Robinson was booked 08/16 on the charge of Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS

Today in History for August 17th

AP NEWSMINUTE For the Morning of August 17, 2018

Obituary

Jerry Washington
December 05, 1937 - August 14, 2018

Obituary

Wyvon Dykes Holliday
August 13, 1955 - August 14, 2018

Obituary

Timothy Anton Light
December 3, 1972 - August 13, 2018

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for August 15, 2018

Shanita Weary was booked 08/15 In From Court
Brandon Thomas was booked 08/15 In From Court
William Phelps was booked 08/15 In From Court
Michael Weldon was booked 08/15 on the charge of Probation Violation
Dillon Babin was booked 08/15 In For Court
Kyle Hamm was booked 08/15 on the charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Reminder: Teen Summit is Saturday in Cassidy Park

Today in History for August 16th

New Orleans Murder Suspect Nabbed in Slidell

A St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office detective, who is assigned to the U.S. Marshal’s Fugitive Apprehension Task Force, assisted Wednesday morning (August 15, 2018) in the apprehension of a man wanted in connection with the August 2, 2018 shooting death of Dawan Gibson (27) on Alabo Street in New Orleans.

Members of the Task Force made contact with Toi Desilva (24) at a Slidell-area home shortly before 9 a.m., resulting in his arrest on a warrant for Second-degree Murder.

Desilva was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail as a fugitive from Orleans Parish.

White Linen Night is August 24th in Kentwood