Three Dead Near Pearl River / Believed Murder-Suicide

The preliminary investigation into the deaths of three individuals who were found Sunday (August 30, 2020) afternoon inside their residence on Ella Singletary Road near Pearl River indicates the deaths are a result of a murder-suicide.

The decedents have been identified by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office as husband and wife 80-year-old Lawrence Lynchard and 75-year-old Barbara Lynchard, and the couple’s daughter, 48-year-old Debra Lynchard.

The case is still under investigation and a definitive cause and manner of death will be released by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office following autopsies. However, the evidence from the initial investigation do not lead STPSO investigators to believe any additional persons were involved. 

“While this is an absolute tragedy for this family,” Sheriff Randy Smith said, “I want to reassure the citizens of the Pearl River and Hickory communities that this is an isolated incident, and we have no reason to believe others are involved.”

Obituary

Bobby Earl Jackson

December 25, 1954 - August 24, 2020

Obituary

Patrick N. McElveen

April 2, 1963 - August 30, 2020

Help Slidell Police ID This Burglary Suspect

Slidell Police is asking for your help in identifying the person in the video. On Wednesday, July 15, 2020, between the hours of 0800 and 1000 hours, this person is suspected to be involved in several residential burglaries around the Magnolia Drive area in Slidell. If anyone is able to identify this person, please contact Detective Joel Hoskins at jhoskins@slidellpd.com or (985)646-4349.

Teens Arrested After Pursuit for Covington-area Vehicle Burglaries

Two teenagers were arrested following a vehicle pursuit that started after they were caught burglarizing vehicles in a Covington-area subdivision early Sunday (August 30, 2020) morning. St. Tammany Parish deputies were dispatched to the Timberlane subdivision shortly before 2 a.m. Sunday morning after a resident observed two individuals attempting to burglarize his vehicle. 

Deputies located the perpetrators’ pickup truck exiting the subdivision and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle failed to stop, and deputies gave chase. The pickup truck continued into Madisonville at speeds in excess of 100 miles per hour. Near the intersection of Main Street and Highway 22, the vehicle struck two St. Tammany Parish patrol units. The passenger of the truck, a 16-year-old male (not pictured) from Hammond, was removed from the vehicle. He was ultimately charged with Simple Burglary, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms and Possession of Schedule II CDS. He was released to the custody of his mother on a custodial release.  

The driver, Mark Fridge, age 18 and of Picayune, continued to attempt to flee and fought with deputies as they attempted to restrain him, punching one deputy in the face, dragging two on the ground and kicking others. Once secured, Fridge was transported to a local-area hospital and treated for injuries his sustained in the scuffle with deputies. The deputies did not require medical treatment.

Fridge was then booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on the following charges: Simple Burglary  (two counts), Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile, Flight from an Officer, Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence, Aggravated Criminal Damage (two counts), Aggravated Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce, Aggravated Assault with a Motor Vehicle Upon a Peace Officer, Illegal Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Schedule II CDS.

Deputies located a bottle of prescription drugs stolen from a vehicle in the Timberlane subdivision inside the truck, and three firearms, also all believed to be stolen, in the bed of the truck. 

Sheriff Randy Smith urges residents throughout St. Tammany Parish to use these arrests as a reminder to always lock their vehicle doors and to call 911 anytime they observe suspicious activity. “Vehicle burglaries are crimes of opportunity,” Sheriff Smith said.  “Even if you are parked in your own driveway or just running into a store for a quick minute, it is imperative to always lock your vehicle doors and to never leave purses or valuables in sight.”

Anyone who believes they may be the victim of a vehicles burglary is asked to call the STPSO at (985) 898-2338.

STPSO Looking for Missing Endangered Juvenile

UPDATE: STPSO advised at about 3:15 pm that she has been located and is safe.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. A broad area of low pressure associated with a tropical wave over the central Caribbean Sea is expected to develop into a tropical depression during the next couple of days. Movement is to the west. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 70% and formation chance through 5 days is at 80%. 

Disturbance 2. An area of low pressure is located about 150 miles south-southeast of Wilmington, North Carolina. This system is expected to move close to the southeastern coast of the United States and then away from land. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 70% and formation chance through 5 days is at 70%. 

Disturbance 3. A tropical wave is expected to emerge off the coast of Africa in a couple of days. Gradual development of this system will be possible through the end of the week while it moves slowly westward over the far eastern tropical Atlantic Ocean. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 0% and formation chance through 5 days is at 30%. 

Disturbance 4. Another tropical wave is located over the eastern Atlantic Ocean, several hundred miles southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands. Further development of this system is not expected.

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Obituary

Mary Lucille Byers Kain

February 09, 1920 - August 29, 2020

Washington Parish Jail Bookings August 29, 2020

Lonnie Atkins was booked on the charge of Manslaughter

Tristen Jenkins was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts)

Kim McGown was booked on the charges of Carnal Knowledge of Juvenile, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Contempt of Court

Washington Parish Jail Bookings August 27-28, 2020

Joseph Busby was booked In For Court

Christopher Risner was booked on the charges of Aggravated Battery of a Dating Partner/Strangulation, False Imprisonment Armed With Weapon, and Probation and Parole Hold

Darryl Singleton was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts), Driving Under Suspension, Switched License Plates, No Insurance, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Bond Surrender, and Probation and Parole Hold

Daris Brinson was booked on the charges of Tampering With Sign Identifying a Firearm-Free Zone, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Drug Free Zone Violation of Uniform CDS, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs

Jimmie Catchings was booked on the charges of Switched License Plates, Driving Under Suspension, No Proof of Insurance, Open Container in Vehicle, Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order (2 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Unlawful Use or Possession of Body Armor, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Contempt of Court

Jerome Wilson was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm and Carrying Firearm/Weapon on School Property

Tremale Jenkins was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense)

Onycha Young was booked on the charge of Domestic Violence Battery (2nd Offense)

Obituary

John Howell "Johnny" McNabb

December 06, 1938 - August 27, 2020

Today in History for August 29th

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Obituary

Janice K. Yarbrough

July 10, 1942 - August 26, 2020

Obituary

Eric Raymond Gaines

March 24, 1957 - August 27, 2020

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. A tropical wave located about 850 miles east of the Windward Islands may gradually develop during the next several days while it moves westward at about 15 mph toward the eastern Caribbean islands. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 20% and formation chance through 5 days is at 30%. 

Disturbance 2. Another tropical wave is located over the eastern Atlantic Ocean just west of the Cabo Verde Islands. The northern part of this wave should move rapidly westward over the central Atlantic during the next few days. It is not forecast to develop as it is expected to remain in unfavorable environmental conditions. However, the southern part of the wave may develop early next week when it begins to move slowly westward over the eastern and central tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 0% but formation chance through 5 days is at 40%. 

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Franklinton Man Jailed for False Imprisonment

On Wednesday (August 26, 202) while responding to a call south of Franklinton, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputy Norman Taylor learned that Christopher Lee Risner, age 39 and a resident of Johnson Street in Franklinton, had held a female against her will, all the time threatening to harm her with a knife, hitting her and choking her. After gathering facts in the case and examining physical evidence, Deputy Taylor obtained an arrest warrant from a 22nd Judicial District Judge.

With assistance from the WPSO Drug Task Force and Franklinton Police Department, Risner was located on Eldridge Magee Road and taken into custody without incident. He was transported to the Washington Parish Jail and booked on charges of aggravated battery, false imprisonment while armed with a weapon and violation of parole.

Risner was first introduced to the Washington Parish Jail in 2008 when he was booked on charges of driving while intoxicated, driving under suspension and resisting an officer. His next arrest was on 2011 on charges of aggravated rape, false imprisonment, kidnapping, battery, two counts of distribution of illegal drugs, three counts of possession of illegal drugs, issuing worthless checks and two counts of failure to appear in court.

Today in History for August 28th

AP Top Stories August 28, 2020 AM

Have You Seen This 17-Year-Old Runaway from Bush?

 

Water Issues Takes Center Stage During Franklinton Board of Aldermen Meeting

At the August 25, 2020 Franklinton Board of Aldermen meeting, the Mayor and Aldermen

• heard from Richard Ducote, Candidate for District Judge, Division J (beginning at 3:00 into video of the meeting)
• heard reports from the Police Department (beginning at 6:20 into video of the meeting), Administrative Department (beginning at 8:25 into video of the meeting), and Public Works Department (see separate story at http://www.mthermonwebtv.com/2020/08/franklinton-public-works-superintendent.html )
• heard a report (beginning at 38:45 into video of the meeting) from Jay Pittman with Spangler Engineering, regarding the town new water well. A lengthy discussion followed on how to pay for/finance the approximate $1.9 million project. Considerations included financing terms, possible reallocation of available but restricted and dedicated funds, and the need to bring the project to completion as soon as practical. In the end, a resolution was passed to authorize a loan application; however, the Board of Aldermen agreed to also schedule a Special Meeting to review and decide the best way to proceed.
• approved the renewal of alcohol permit for Don Juan's Restaurant 
• heard from two residents, during Public Participation (beginning at 1:12:45 into video of the meeting). 

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today in History for August 27th

AP Top Stories August 27, 2020 AM

Tangi Fugitive Arrested in Washington Parish

Last week, (on August 20, 2020), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force detectives were
contacted by Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives that a man they were seeking was located at a residence on Robin Lane northwest of Franklinton. After requesting assistance from the Rayburn Correctional Center canine team in the event the suspect fled on foot, detectives set up surveillance on Robin Lane and observed the wanted man standing with several other males around the vehicle the suspect had been driving.

When the suspect, identified as Benjamin Warren and a resident of Neal Road in Loranger, spotted the detectives approaching him, he fled into nearby woods. Washington Parish Drug Task Force Detective Kevin Bond and Rayburn Correctional Center officer Cody Williams pursued him on foot and were able to capture him approximately twenty yards beyond the wood line.

Warren violently resisted the officers but was subdued and handcuffed after other officers arrived on the scene. A search of Warren’s clothing revealed more than $1,000 in cash. A further search of his vehicle revealed a large amount of marijuana, methamphetamine, heroin, Suboxone, digital scales and two pistols.

Warren was booked into the Washington Parish Jail charged with being a fugitive from Tangipahoa Parish and St. Helena Parish, two counts of felon in possession of a firearm, three counts of possession of illegal drugs with intention to distribute, four counts of resisting an officer with force or violence, two counts of resisting arrest, resisting an officer by flight on foot and parole violation. His bond is set at $150,000 and he will be transferred to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail to face charges there if he is able to make bond in Washington Parish.

“The reach of law enforcement goes far beyond parish or even state boundaries,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “We are always glad to assist Tangipahoa Parish at any time and we can always count on them to assist us. It appears Mr. Warren is paving a path of incarceration for himself and we are pleased to assist him along that path as he continues to make bad life choices. Once again, I thank Rayburn Correctional Center for their assistance. RCC is a valuable ally not only for the Sheriff’s Office but also for every citizen of Washington Parish.”

He Wasn't Mowing His Lawn!

On Monday (August 24, 2020), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputy Kyle Stogner observed a wanted man driving a lawnmower westbound on Highway 436 near Highland Baptist Church. Deputy Stogner recognized the driver as Justin Ryan Owens (30), who had outstanding warrants from the 22nd Judicial District Court.

Owens was arrested for violating parole, contempt of court, aggravated assault and battery with injury. He was transported to the Washington Parish Jail

Owens has been arrested at least eleven previous times since 2008 (when he was only 18) with charges including domestic abuse, cruelty to juveniles, criminal damage to property, assault, escape from custody, violation of a protective order, violating probation, theft, automobile theft, burglary of an inhabited dwelling, aggravated burglary, theft of a firearm, possession of marijuana, driving while intoxicated, and careless operation of a vehicle. 

“He started his criminal career early in life and has continued through the years,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Is it possible for him to turn his life around? Of course it’s possible, but it will require a complete reversal of his mindset. It’s his choice. I’m pulling for him in that regard and I know you are also.”

STPSO Seeks Public’s Help to ID Suspect in Abita Murder

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in identifying the person  responsible for murdering an Abita Springs-area man.

At approximately 3 a.m. on August 12, 2020, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call from an individual claiming he had been shot.Deputies arrived at a residence located in the 21000 block of Wilson Road near Abita Springs, and located a man, who was later identified as 61-year-old Everett Wayne Finely (also known as James Finley and "Gator”), suffering from a gunshot wound. Medical personnel transported the Finely to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries.

Video surveillance cameras captured the subject investigators believe to be responsible for the shooting.

Anyone with information regarding the homicide and/or the identity of the individual in the video surveillance photographs is asked to contact the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office at (985) 726-7845 or (985) 898-2338 or Crimestoppers at (504) 822-1111. You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward through Crimestoppers.

Obituary

Freddie Gene Routt

February 04, 1942 - August 26, 2020

Franklinton Public Works Superintendent Responds to Questions Regarding Water Quality

At the Monday, August 25, 2020 meeting of the Franklinton Board of Aldermen, Franklinton Public Works Superintendent Reginald McMasters responded to water quality issues publicized in the newspaper and in Facebook posts. McMasters vehemently denied that Franklinton has a water crisis or contaminated water. He characterized the reports as rumors, slander, and a disgrace that a charge would be made that the Town of Franklinton is providing contaminated water to schools, nursing homes, the hospital, restaurants, and residents of Franklinton. 

See the video for McMasters' remarks. Also, click "Read More" below the video for his response to the recent Administrative Action from the Louisiana Department of Health.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings August 25, 2020

Derick Stein was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment

Lauren Page was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, Careless Operation With Accident, and Simple Escape

Christine Pierce was booked on the charge of Probation Violation

Zachery Rogers was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

Obituary

Donald Wayne Gerald

November 30, 1943 - August 24, 2020

Tropical Disturbances Today

Hurricane Laura has strengthened into a major hurricane with potentially catastrophic storm surge, extreme winds, and flash flooding expected along the northwest Gulf Coast tonight. Maximum sustained winds currently is at 115 mph. Laura is currently a Category 3 and is expected to become a Category 4 hurricane later today. On the forecast track, Laura should approach the Upper Texas and southwest Louisiana coasts this evening and move inland near those areas tonight or Thursday morning. 

Click here for more detailed information from NOAA

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today in History for August 26th

AP Top Stories August 26, 2020 AM

Help STPSO Locate Attempted Murder Suspect

 

Schools in the WPSS Closed Wednesday & Thursday

The Washington Parish School System has advised that, due to Hurricane Laura, Washington Parish Schools will be closed tomorrow, Wednesday, August 26 & Thursday, August 27.

Families may still pick up distance learning packets & meals tomorrow at school sites between 10:00 & 10:30.

All 12-month employees will report to work tomorrow, Wednesday 26.

Obituary

Jeannine Magee Bracey

October 22, 1936 - August 25, 2020

Obituary

Troy Leonard Ginn

October 5, 1939 - August 24, 2020

St. Tammany Traffic Stop Leads to Cocaine Arrest

Sunday morning (August 23, 2020), Troop L Troopers arrested Guillermo Espinoza of Juarez, Mexico, and Consuelo Marmolejo of Sunland Park, New Mexico after they were found to be in possession of narcotics during a traffic stop on I-12.

Just before 10:30 am, Troopers stopped an eastbound 2020 Dodge Durango for a traffic violation on I-12 in St. Tammany Parish. During the course of the traffic stop, Troopers became suspicious of criminal activity and requested consent to search the vehicle. Upon doing so, Troopers discovered approximately 7.3 kilograms of suspected cocaine inside.

Espinoza and Marmolejo were arrested for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and booked in the St. Tammany Parish jail. Bond was set for Espinoza in the amount of $600,000 and Marmolejo in the amount of $200,000.

Update on Roseland Fatal Shooting - Another Arrest Made

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office reports that Jaylohn Mitchell (19) of Ponchatoula, LA. is now in custody, having been arrested Saturday (August 22, 2020) in Houston, Texas. Mitchell will be extradited to Louisiana at a later date. 

Mitchell is wanted on outstanding warrants through the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office for one (1) count of Second Degree Murder and two (2) counts of Attempted Second Degree Murder, connected to a homicide that occurred on Vernon Town Road in Roseland on August 8, 2020 that claimed the life of Zion Hutcherson (21) of Baton Rouge, LA. Three others have been arrested and one suspect remains wanted in connection with the shooting.

Click here for the previous related stories.

The Sheriff's Office would like to thank the Louisiana State Police Detective and Fugitive Task Force, Hammond Police Department, 21st Judicial District Attorney's Office, Ponchatoula Police Department and Texas Law Enforcement for helping to get this dangerous fugitive off the streets and behind bars.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings August 24, 2020

Anna Jones was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana (2nd Offense), Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Drivers License

Twanna Jackson was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Failure to Appear

Carrie Miley was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Contempt of Court (2 counts), and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction

Patrick Brown was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs

Justin Owens was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court, Aggravated Assault, and Simple Battery With Injury

Joseph Harvey was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court

Karen Williams was booked on the charge of Cruelty to Infirm

Briana Cordoba was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling and Criminal Damage

Obituary

Jerry Allen Hill

June 23, 1953 - August 24, 2020

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Post-Tropical Cyclone Marco is moving west just offshore the coast of Louisiana, sustained winds are near 30 mph, and is expected to dissipate by early Wednesday.

Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Laura is expected to strengthen into a major hurricane over the northwestern Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday. The current (7:00 am) track is west-northwest turning northwestward through Wednesday night as it moves over the central and northwestern Gulf of Mexico tonight and Wednesday.  Maximum sustained winds have increased to 70 mph and significant strengthening is forecast during the next 48 hours. Tropical-storm-force winds extend outward up to 175 miles from the center. Significant rainfall is expected.

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today in History for August 25th

AP Top Stories August 25, 2020 AM

Covington Police Make Arrest in Shooting

On August 20, 2020, at approximately 8:30 P.M., the Covington Police Department responded to a report of a shooting that occurred at the intersection of W. 33rd Avenue and N. Buchanan Street in Covington. It was discovered that one victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds and was transported to a local hospital for treatment, where he is expected to survive.

An investigation by the CPD’s Criminal Investigation Division and Criminal Patrol Division, Anthony Ford, Jr. (21) was determined to be a suspect. Ford was arrested the next day (August 21, 2020) on the charge of Attempted First Degree Murder. 

Another Washington Parish Woman Booked on Drug Charges

While patrolling today (August 24, 2020) in northern Washington Parish, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Lt. Tony Romano and Deputy Noman Taylor were dispatched to the location of a vehicle sitting in the roadway on West Stateline Road. Officers made contact with the driver who was sitting slumped over the steering wheel with a partially loaded hypodermic needle by her side. A field test of the syringe indicated it contained methamphetamine. With permission to search the vehicle, officers discovered marijuana concealed in a purse.

The driver of the vehicle, Anna Elizabeth Jones, age 23 and a resident of Elmer Magee Road, was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail. Jones was booked into the jail on charges of possession of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and no driver’s license.

Jones has one previous incarceration in the Washington Parish Jail. A May 2017 arrest earned her an overnight stay on charges of possession and distribution of illegal drugs, obstruction of justice and introduction of contraband into the jail.

“This is the second such incident in the past few days,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Drug impaired drivers are a threat to all other persons on the roadway. Whether the driver is impaired by drugs or alcohol, the end result is the same—an unsafe driver needlessly endangering the lives of all others. Good job, Lt. Romano and Deputy Taylor.”

Two Washington Parish Women Booked on Drug Charges

While patrolling north of Bogalusa today (August 24, 2020), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Sgt. David Cupp observed a suspicious vehicle in a church parking lot. The driver, Carrie Miranda “Mandy” Miley, age 43 and a resident of Highway 424, had two outstanding warrants for her arrest. Her passenger, Twanna Lynn Jackson, age 45 and a resident of Highway 62, was also determined to have an outstanding warrant.

With the assistance of Washington Parish Deputy Kyle Stogner, it was discovered that Miley and Jackson were in possession of methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Miley was charged with possession with intent distribute. Both women were transported to the Washington Parish Jail and booked on the drug charges.

Miley has two previous stays in the Washington Parish Jail. In 2013 she was charged with filing or maintaining false public records and improper use of 911. A 2019 arrest resulted in charges of contempt of court and obstruction of justice.

Jackson’s arrest record began in 2009 with her arrest for three counts of possession of illegal drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and a traffic offense. In 2010 she was arrested again for drug charges and violating her probation. She was returned to jail four times in 2011 and one additional time in 2012 by court order. In 2017, she was arrested for failure to appear in court. A 2019 arrest was for two counts of felony failure to appear in court.

“Illegal drugs have a dangerous and insidious presence in our parish,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Far too many of our citizens are relying on illegal drugs, hoping to find some meaning in life. Instead, they are finding misery and death. While it may seem somewhat unfair to arrest someone for illegal drug use, it usually is a last resort tactic to save their life and get them to a place where they can detox. I’m always grateful to our fine officers for being alert to those who are involved in the drug traffic and getting them off of our roadways.”

Parish Woman Arrested After Fleeing Into Woods

Michelle Laura Jenkins, age 45 and a resident of Highway 436, is being held in the Washington Parish Jail facing numerous charges, including resisting an officer with force or violence, aggravated flight from an officer, distribution and possession of prescription drugs without a prescription, possession of illegal drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, theft, contempt of court, numerous traffic violations and being a fugitive from Mississippi.

The extended incident began the Saturday (August 22, 2020) afternoon with a report of a vehicle blocking the highway with a female slumped over in the driver’s seat. WPSO Sgt. Jay Dupre responded to the scene along with Deputy James Gregorio. Varnado Police Officer Forrest Holcomb and George Jones, who were closer to the location responded also and were the first officers on the scene. When the Varnado officers arrived, the driver of the suspect vehicle sped off, heading west on Highway 436.

Deputy Gregorio was approaching the scene from the west and was able to deploy spike strips on the highway. The fleeing vehicle drove over the spike strips, flattening tires, then crashed into a roadside ditch. The driver exited the vehicle and fled into nearby woods. Sgt. Dupre arrived on the scene and called for the canine team from Rayburn Corrections Center to assist.

The Rayburn canine team, along with Sheriff’s Office narcotic detectives Lt. Brent Goings and Kevin Bond and Brad Eckert, searched the woods for approximately one hour before locating Jenkins and taking her into custody. Due to complaints from Jenkins, she was assessed by Northshore EMS personnel who had been standing by and then transported to Our Lady of Angels Hospital for further assessment. Jenkins was medically cleared and transferred to the Washington Parish Jail.

Jenkins will remain in the Washington Parish Jail until local charges are handled by the courts or she posts a bond of $26,000. When that occurs, she will be extradited to Mississippi to face felony charges there.

Jenkins has at least four previous stays in the Washington Parish Jail. In 2011, she was arrested for possession of stolen property. A 2014 arrest was for possession of drug paraphernalia and disturbing the peace. In 2015, she was arrested on fugitive warrants and resisting arrest. She was arrested again in 2017 for burglary of an inhabited dwelling, theft and possession of illegal drugs.

“Once again, the Rayburn canine team provided valuable assistance,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “It doesn’t matter what hour of the day or night, the fine officers from Rayburn always respond. They are professionals in every sense of the word and RCC’s well trained canines do an excellent job. I also thank the Varnado Police Department for responding so quickly. Washington Parish citizens are fortunate to have first class law enforcement agencies which work together for the common good of all who reside in our fine parish.”

WPSS Schools Classes Resume Tuesday, August 25th

The Washington Parish School System has advised that classes will resume tomorrow, August 25, with Group B. They will provide an update on decisions for Wednesday regarding Hurricane Laura.

Obituary

Joe Slaven

March 09, 1946 - August 21, 2020

Washington Parish Jail Bookings August 23, 2020

Tessie Starns was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Probation and Parole Hold

Michelle Jenkins was booked on the charges of No Insurance, No MVI, Contempt of Court, No Drivers License, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order (3 counts), Obstruction of Highway, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, No License Pate, and Theft Less Than 1000

Hulon McCain was booked on the charge of Driving While Intoxicated

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Marco is forecast to approach the coast of Louisiana this afternoon, and then turn westward and move very close to the coast of Louisiana through Tuesday night. Maximum sustained winds have decreased to near 50 mph. Further weakening is expected, and Marco is forecast to become a tropical depression late on Tuesday and dissipate on Wednesday.

Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Laura is moving west-northwest near 21 mph. On the forecast track, the center of Laura will move over the Caribbean Sea just offshore the southern coast of Cuba today, and move into the southeastern Gulf of Mexico by early Tuesday morning. Laura is then forecast to move over the central and northwestern Gulf of Mexico Tuesday night and Wednesday. Gradual strengthening is expected, and Laura is forecast to become a hurricane by early Tuesday. From late Wednesday into Friday, Laura is expected to produce rainfall of 5 to 10 inches, with isolated maximum amounts of 15 inches across portions of the west-central U.S. Gulf Coast near the Texas and Louisiana border north into portions of the lower Mississippi Valley. 

Obituary

Jan E. Bush

August 29, 1927 - August 22, 2020

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today in History for August 24th

AP Top Stories August 24, 2020 AM

District Attorney Montgomery's Office Closing Mon-Wed

The Offices of District Attorney Warren Montgomery in Washington and St. Tammany Parishes will close Monday through Wednesday (August 24-26), 2020 in accordance with a decision by the 22nd Judicial District Court. The closures are based on tropical storm predictions from the National Weather Service.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings August 21-22, 2020

Justin Gunnell was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court

Trent Brown was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear

Kayla Brumfield was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass and Disturbing the Peace

Kevin Burch was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Child Desertion, Disturbing the Peace/Loud and Abusive Language, and Interference With Medical Treatment

Joshua Wilkes was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear

Steven Hammond was booked on the charges of Obstructing Public Passage(s), Resisting an Officer (2 counts), Criminal Damage (2 counts), Expired License Plate, Expired Drivers License, No Proof of Insurance, Improper Backing/Accident, Ran Stop Sign (5 counts), Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Improper Lane Usage, Aggravated Assault With a Vehicle on an Officer, and Aggravated Flight From an Officer

Duane Whitney was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign, Resisting an Officer (2 counts), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Probation and Parole Hold

Conterrio Johnson was booked on the charges of Speeding 41 & More Over Limit, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Careless Operation With Accident, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Driving Under Suspension, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Resisting an Officer, Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs/Morphine, and Probation and Parole Hold

Billy Boyette was booked on the charges of Parole Violation and Failure to Appear

Olvin Lopez was booked on the charges of Aggravated Battery and Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property

Tangipahoa Parish Schools Closed Monday and Tuesday (August 24-25, 2020)

Tangipahoa Parish School Superintendent Melissa Stilley announced that all Tangipahoa Parish School System schools and district offices will be closed Monday, Aug. 24, and Tuesday, Aug. 25 due to the approach of Tropical Storm Marco, 

“The safety of our employees and the families we serve is our top priority,” Stilley said, adding that 12 month employees should not report to their job sites, unless notified by their supervisor.

Once the threat is lifted, principals and head custodians will check school campuses.

Virtual classes will not be held during the closure, Stilley said. Zoom meetings will not be held during this time either. The district will re-evaluate the school calendar to identify ways to make up for loss of instructional time due to the closure, Stilley said.

Chromebook and mobile hot spot distribution scheduled during this closure will be postponed until after the storms have passed. Those new distribution dates and times will be communicated by the schools later this week.

The district will continue to monitor a second weather system, currently known as Tropical Storm Laura, and will provide updated information on potential closures during the week.

Bogalusa City Schools Closed Monday and Tuesday (August 24-25, 2020)

WPSS Schools Closed Monday (August 24, 2020)

The Washington Parish School System has advised that, due to the approaching storms, Washington Parish schools and offices will be closed Monday, August 24, 2020. They further advised they will continue monitoring the weather and provide an update Monday afternoon.  

Laura and Marco Update from National Hurricane Center (Video)

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Richard Ducote, Candidate for Judge, Div. J - "Starting My Legal Career"

STARTING MY LEGAL CAREER: In 1978, soon after taking my lawyer's oath, I met one of the first clients I was appointed to represent by the Jefferson Parish Juvenile Court as part of a special program giving lawyers to abused kids I started at Tulane's law school. A very kind nun greeted me at the large door of the St. Vincent's Infant Home and led me to a crib in the nursery. She smiled, saying I was the first lawyer they had seen there. She lifted the fragile abandoned child, only a few months old, and put him in my arms. She tiptoed out and quietly closed the door. As I sat in the dark, gently rocking this vulnerable baby - my client, with the rhythmic creaking of the chair the only sound, I knew my life's calling was sealed. Forty-two years, over two million miles, and 46 states later, protecting abused women and kids--in countless courtrooms, classrooms, legislatures, airplanes, hotels, rental cars, law libraries - I am very thankful for this vocation. I remember a sign in my kids' pediatrician's office: "Every newborn child carries the message that God has not yet given up on the world." 

Please consider electing me Judge, Div. J, St. Tammany & Washington Parishes on Nov. 3 (Early Vote 10/20-10/27)

Thank you very much! 

Richard Ducote #75 

985.898.2755 

318 E. Boston Street, 2nd Fl., Covington, LA 70433

 https://www.facebook.com/ducoteforjustice                                          http://www.ducoteforjustice.com

Tangipahoa Parish Sandbag Locations

Tangipahoa Parish Government will open self-serve sandbag locations at fire stations throughout the parish starting at noon on Saturday, August 22, 2020.

Tangipahoa Parish President Robby Miller said self-serve sandbag stations will be set up at the main fire station in each of the following communities: Natalbany, Loranger, Husser, Wilmer, Kentwood, and Independence. In the 8th Ward, sandbag stations will be set up at the fire station on LA 445 and at the new station on LA 22 east in Bedico. In Ponchatoula, the fire stations on LA 22 east and west of the city limits will have self-serve sandbag stations, as will the Hammond Baptist Fire Station.

Miller said residents will need to bring their own shovel to fill the sandbags at the self-serve sites.

“We encourage anyone who has had an issue with flash flooding or flooding following extended rain events to please come out and pick up sandbags,” Miller said.

Miller encouraged residents to stay tuned to local media and the TPG website,www.Tangipahoa.org, as well as the parish’s social media channels for weather-related updates.

St. Tammany Parish Self-Serve Sandbag Locations

St. Tammany Parish Government announces the opening of six self-service sandbag locations beginning Sunday, August 23, 2020. All locations will have sand and bags provided. Residents are asked to bring their own shovels in case all shovels provided are in use. In addition, residents are asked to limit the number of sandbags to 15 per vehicle. The locations will be open from dawn to dusk.

• St. Tammany Parish Government Building - 21410 Koop Dr., Mandeville
• St. Tammany Parish Public Works- Airport Road Barn - 34583 Grantham College Rd, Slidell, La
• The Old Levee District Site - 61134 Military Road (Hwy 190) Slidell, La.
• St. Tammany Parish Public Works- Fritchie Barn - 63119 Highway 1090 in Pearl River
• St. Tammany Parish Public Works Barn- Keller Barn - 63131 Fish Hatchery Road, Lacombe
• St. Tammany Parish Public Works Barn- Covington Barn - 1305 N. Florida Street, Covington

Residents are asked to clear any debris from culverts and drainage pathways, and to monitor the weather forecasts in the coming days through your local media outlets. St. Tammany Parish Government will have updates on Facebook and Twitter.

Weather Message from Parish President Thomas / Sandbag Information

 WASHINGTON PARISH

Richard N. Thomas, Jr. Parish President

Office (985) 839-7825 · 909 Pearl Street · Franklinton, LA 70438

Fax (985) 839-7827 *** E-mail: rthomas@wpgov.org *** www.washingtonparishalerts.org

As your Parish President, I would like to ensure all citizens of Washington Parish that the Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness office is and will continue to monitor the track and potential impacts from Tropical Storm Marco and Tropical Storm Laura. As of Friday, we have been coordinating with the Louisiana Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness along with the National Weather Service through conference calls.

Updates received form the National Weather Service are being posted on the Washington Parish Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness Facebook page along with the Parish Government web-page. The greatest threat from these systems, at this time, is heavy rainfall. Sandbag locations are as follows:

Sunday, August 23, 2020 beginning at 9:00 A.M.

WPFD #7 – 17380 Bill Booty Road, Bogalusa LA

WP Public Works Location #2 – Yacc Road (Hwy 10 west of Seven Mile Road)

WP Public Works Location #3 – 801 Pearl St, Franklinton LA

City of Bogalusa residents - (limit 10/person) - Austin St @ Bauer St, Main St. ballpark, Ave B Sports Complex. Sand and bags are available at each location. Please bring your own shovel.

Varnado / Angie residents residents - Varnado Town Hall, 63097 Main St, Varnado, LA. Sand and bags are available. Bring your own shovel. Pre-filled bags will be available for those unable to fill their own.

Monday, August 24, 2020 beginning at 8:00 A.M.

Town of Franklinton residents – pre-filled bags (limit 10/person) 1108 Lenora St., Franklinton, LA

You should always remain prepared throughout hurricane season! All residents, if you haven’t already done so, should be preparing an emergency plan. Now is the time to make sure your generator is in working order, your gutters, catch basins and ditches are free of any debris and that you have all the necessary supplies you and your family may need for a minimum of 7 days. I continue to urge everyone to remain vigilant and stay tuned to local media.

Today in History for August 22nd

Tropical Weather Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Marco, previously known as Tropical Depression Fourteen, is moving north-northwest near 12 mph and move over the central Gulf of Mexico toward the northwestern Gulf on Sunday and Monday followed by a track toward the northwestern Gulf coast Tuesday. Marco could be near hurricane strength when it moves over the central Gulf of Mexico Sunday night and early Monday.

Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Laura, previously known as Tropical Depression Thirteen, is moving toward the west near 21 and will move near Puerto Rico this morning, near or over Hispaniola this afternoon and tonight and near or over eastern Cuba Sunday and Sunday night. After that, the models have potential landfall locations along the Gulf coast from the Florida Panhandle to the middle Texas coast.  One complicating factor is the potential for interaction with Tropical Storm Marco.Laura could bring storm surge, rainfall, and wind impacts to portions of Cuba, the Bahamas, and Florida early next week and the northern U.S. Gulf Coast by the middle of next week.

Disturbance 3. A tropical wave near the the Cabo Verde Islands is not expected to develop into a stronger system as it moves westward over the tropical Atlantic.

Local Weather Forecast for the Next Few Days

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