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December 31, 2021

Washington Parish COVID Testing Sites

Please call ahead to confirm availability and times.



Obituary

Joseph L. "Jody" Oncale

February 23, 1970 - December 30, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 30, 2021










James Morgan (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Switched License Plates, Speeding 11-20 Over Limit, No Drivers License, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Lee Norwood (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Paul Robinson (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of 2nd Degree Murder, Resisting an Officer, Obstruction of Justice, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $600000.00.

Kevin Fortenberry (Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Brandon Hunt (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Stolen Things 1000-5000, and Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Corey Ruffin (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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December 30, 2021

Contempt of Court Warrants Sends Man Back to Jail on Christmas Eve

Wesley Bernard Williams, age 34 and who gives an address on Western Avenue in Hammond, was arrested Christmas Eve on outstanding warrants for contempt of court plus other charges incurred during the arrest.

On December 24, 2021, a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy attempted to stop Williams who was driving in the Franklinton area. Williams stopped on Highway 10 west and refused to exit his vehicle. Instead, he fled at a high rate of speed with the deputy in pursuit. After turning onto Highway 440, Williams made an illegal U-turn. Reaching speeds in excess of 90 mph, Williams left the roadway and went into a ditch. As the deputy approached, Williams put his vehicle in reverse and attempted to strike the deputy’s vehicle before fleeing into adjacent woods. After a short foot pursuit, the deputy was able to tackle Williams, taking him to the ground. Williams physically resisted until the deputy was able to restrain him.

Williams was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail where he was booked on two counts of contempt of court, aggravated assault with a vehicle on an officer, resisting an officer with force or violence and resisting arrest by flight. His bond was set at $50,000.

Williams has previous arrests in Washington Parish that include two charges of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, two counts of criminal trespass, battery, being a fugitive from the 23rd Judicial District Court, criminal damage to property, possession of illegal drugs, failure to appear in court, two counts of contempt of court, possession of drug paraphernalia, and burglary. 

“If Williams had yielded when the officer pulled in behind him,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal, “he would have faced only the contempt of court charges. Due to his choice to flee and then fight with our deputy, he now faces more serious charges. Very poor decisions always lead to very poor outcomes.”

Christmas Day Arrest Lands Washington Parish Man in Jail on Numerous Charges

On December 25, 2021, a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy arrested Phillip Fowler, age 52 and a resident of Bateman Drive. Fowler was booked into the parish jail on several charges, including attempted home invasion, battery, criminal trespass, resisting an officer, disturbing the peace and two counts of contempt of court. His bond was set at $7,500.

When the deputy responded to a complaint on Harvey Road, he encountered Fowler who was screaming and waving his arms back and forth while in the front yard of a residence. He advanced towards the deputy and then began to advance towards another male who was nearby, all the time screaming and behaving in a threatening manner. Once Fowler was restrained, the homeowner stated Fowler had attempted to force himself into the residence, at which time she called 911 for assistance. She also called a neighbor who arrived on the scene and attempted to calm Fowler as the deputy arrived and took Fowler into custody.

Fowler has at least six previous arrests in Washington Parish on charges that include two counts of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, three counts of failure to appear in court, resisting arrest, attempted criminal trespass, resisting a police officer with force or violence, possession of illegal drugs, two counts of contempt of court, and being a fugitive from Minehaha County, South Dakota.

“Uncontrolled anger always ends up hurting the angry person,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “In this situation, Mr. Fowler’s anger earned him a trip to the parish jail while other involved persons were able to sleep in their own homes. His criminal history indicates he has never learned self-control, a weakness that has resulted in numerous arrests and spoiled Christmas day for others.

Speeding Lands Man Back in Jail

On December 26, 2021, a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy arrested a driver with a suspended license after encountering him on Highway 10 traveling in excess of 80 mph. The driver, Laquincy Donshae Stewart, age 24 and a resident of Vernon School Road, was stopped in the vicinity of Poplarhead Road. The deputy learned that Stewart had an outstanding warrant for felony carnal knowledge of a juvenile in addition to a warrant for traffic offenses.

Stewart was transported to the Washington Parish Jail where he was booked on the outstanding warrants in addition to traffic violations. His bond was set at $3,000 and he was able to post bond for his release on December 28, 2021.

Stewart has one previous stay in the Washington Parish Jail. In April 2017 he was arrested on two counts of forcible rape. He was released two days later after posting a $125,000 bond.

“Highway 10 is not a racetrack,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Slow down! Numerous curves and hills, combined with lots of traffic, dictates that Highway 10 be driven in a cautious manner. Excessive and careless driving on any road in our parish will earn you a ticket. Slow down, be safe and respect our speed laws. Our deputies cannot be everywhere at once, but they are always out seeking anyone who is violating any of the laws of our state and parish.” 

Arrest Made in Bogalusa for Carnal Knowledge of Juvenile

On December 26, 2021, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the Sportsman’s Inn motel south of Bogalusa to conduct a welfare check on a fifteen year old female. Upon arriving at the motel, the deputies quickly learned that the young female had been in the company of Christian Rosea Jeremiah Hutton, age 34 and a registered sex offender.

WPSO advises that the investigation revealed that had been staying in a room at the motel and the juvenile was staying with family members in an adjacent room. The juvenile left her room during the night and encountered Hutton who committed a sexual assault.

The mother of the juvenile took her to the hospital for examination. Hutton, who had left the motel, was discovered walking on South Columbia Street. He was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail where he was booked for carnal knowledge of a juvenile. Hutton has one previous arrest on record in Washington Parish. In December 2020, he was arrested for failure to comply with sex offender registration requirements after moving to Washington Parish.

“Righteous anger boils within me when I learn of the sexual abuse of a child,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I can only imagine the trauma the child and her family must endure. Our officers handled this investigation and arrest in a professional manner and Hutton is now where he belongs, in jail.”

Sandy Hook, MS Man Arrested Near RCC

On Tuesday (December 28, 2021) Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies encountered Austin Troy Freeman, age 23 and a resident of Sandy Hook, Mississippi. Freeman was traveling on Highway 21 near Rayburn Correctional Center and deputies found both methamphetamine and marijuana in his possession. He was arrested for possession of both of the illegal drugs and transported to the Washington Parish Jail. Freeman was released on December 29, 2021 after posting a $5,000 bond.

“How ironic to be arrested near the prison,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “He may have been comfortable bringing illegal drugs into Washington Parish, but I suspect he was not comfortable being apprehended and arrested. Do drug users transport illegal drugs across state lines? Absolutely! Are law enforcement officers in both states aware of that fact and on the alert? Absolutely! Most of the time, illegal drug users and sellers are well known in both jurisdictions.”

Update on Tangipahoa Parish Fugitive Caught in Washington Parish

Washington Parish Sheriff's Office Chief Deputy Mike Haley today (December 30, 2021) provided an update on the December 26, 2021 capture of Clarence Gaten, Jr., age 38 and a fugitive from Tangipahoa Parish. Click here for our original story

Chief Haley advises that WPSO deputies went to a residence on Highway 16 in an attempt to locate Gaten who had escaped from the Tangipahoa Parish Jail and was reported to possibly be at the residence of his girlfriend on Highway 16 in Washington Parish. The prisoner’s girlfriend, 40 year-old Kristina Marie Smith, was suspected of picking up the escapee in Amite and driving him to her residence on Highway 16.

After determining the escapee was not in the residence and searching a shed on the property, deputies entered an adjacent wood line and observed a trail leading into the woods. As the deputies walked the trail, they observed a male who appeared to be sleeping on the ground. When the deputies approached, the male ran away through the woods. As one of the deputies was closing in on him, he struck the deputy in the face with a limb before disappearing into the woods.

Other Washington Parish deputies, along with Tangipahoa Parish deputies, arrived and set up a perimeter. The canine team from Rayburn Correctional Center also arrived on scene and began to track the male through the woods. Tracking dogs led officers to the escapee who was quickly taken into custody.

Gaten was booked into the Washington Parish Jail charged with being a fugitive from Tangipahoa Parish, aggravated battery on an officer, resisting an officer with force or violence and resisting an officer by flight on foot. Gaten remains in the Washington Parish Jail to face local charges. Although his bond has been set at $10,000, he is not eligible for release due to a hold placed on him by the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Kristina Marie Smith was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on charges of interfering with a law enforcement investigation, being a fugitive from Tangipahoa Parish, and issuing worthless checks. Smith has one previous charge in Washington Parish for possession of illegal drugs in 2009. Her bond was set at $2,250; however, on December 28, 2021, she was transported to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail to face charges there.

“This jailhouse romance didn’t work for either party,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I don’t understand why anyone would become romantically involved with a prisoner, knowing there can be no satisfactory future in such a relationship. In this case, Gaten is facing more charges and Smith is facing new charges both in Washington and Tangipahoa. Our deputies did a great job apprehending Gaten and I am grateful for the assistance of Rayburn Correctional Center officers and canines as well as Tangipahoa Parish deputies.”

Hattiesburg Shooting Suspect Believed to be in Pike County, Magnolia, MS Area



Obituary

Mallory Michelle Odom

December 26, 2021

Obituary

Joan Starnes

January 30, 1943 - December 28, 2021

Obituary

Kassi Alizabeth Era Creel

March 31, 1990 - December 26, 2021

Obituary

Keith Jeremy Edwards

November 14, 1972 - December 29, 2021

Washington Parish Government Announces Job Opening

Washington Parish Government has announced a job opening for an experienced Heavy Equipment Mechanic. See below for details. Applications accepted until Friday, January 21, 2022, 4:00 p.m.



Obituary

Rebecca Rosaline Smith

February 3, 1943 - December 27, 2021

Obituary

Urilda "Willie" Taylor Lewis

February 12, 1936 - December 28, 2021

Obituary

Anna McNeese

April 29, 1998 - December 23, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 29, 2021



Austin Freeman (Sandy Hook, Ms.) was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, and Prohibited Acts by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Lindsey Dykes (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of 1st Degree Rape/Vaginal and Contributing to Delinquency of Juvenile by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kelton Spann (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Kidnapping, Attempted Aggravated Battery, Possession of a Stolen Firearm (2 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (7 counts), and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time. Click here for the press release related to the arrest

Kenneth Williams (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II CDS (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Ryan Hernandez (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving Under Suspension, Careless Operation, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Darianna Parnell (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $30000.00 bond.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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Obituary

Irma Dean Singleton

October 5, 1938 - December 21, 2021

December 29, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 28, 2021






Evon Youngblood (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Register as Sex Offender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Sheryn Delaune (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Heroin and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kurtis Gabler (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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December 28, 2021

Belligerent Franklinton Motorist Arrested

What initially began as a routine traffic stop resulted in the arrest of the driver for physically resisting both a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy and a Franklinton Police Department officer. After observing traffic violations inside the Town of Franklinton, a Sheriff’s Office deputy made a traffic stop and encountered an uncooperative Kana L. Roberts, age 31 and a resident of 15th Avenue in Franklinton.

A Franklinton police officer responded to the scene. Both he and the deputy met physical resistance from Roberts who was driving with an expired driver’s license. After she was restrained by the officers, Roberts was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail where she was booked on two counts of resisting a police officer with force or violence. She was released the same day after posting a $3,500 bond.

“It’s simple,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Cooperate when an officer stops you. In this situation, Roberts likely would have received a verbal warning, or, at the most, a citation to appear in court. Her behavior left the officers with no choice. I’m pleased the situation was resolved with no injuries to anyone.”

Fight Over a WIC Card Lands Man in Jail - AGAIN

On December 21, 2021, a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy’s response to a disturbance at the Sportsman’s Inn motel south of Bogalusa resulted in the arrest of Jared Robert Hillery, age 36 and a resident of Highway 21 north of Bogalusa. During an argument with his female companion over a WIC card, Hillery violently attacked her, an action which alerted persons in neighboring rooms who then called the Sheriff’s Office.

The deputy arrested Hillery and transported him to the Washington Parish Jail on charges of domestic abuse with strangulation and disturbing the peace in a violent and tumultuous manner. His bond was set at $500; however, he will remain in jail due to a hold placed on him by the Louisiana Division of Probation and Parole for a probation violation.

Hillery has been in the Washington Parish Jail on three previous occasions, charged with  theft of a motor vehicle, possession of illegal drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, failure to appear in court, burglary, criminal mischief, tampering with surveillance equipment and contempt of court.

“Poor anger management often leads to poor decisions and sometimes, as in this case, to physical assault,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I’m pleased our officer was able to intervene and make a proper arrest.”

MS Man Arrested in Angie With Heroin & Needles

Davis Vincent Gomez, age 42 and a resident of Foxworth, Mississippi, was arrested in Angie yesterday (December 27, 2021) and jailed on charges of possession of heroin, possession of drug paraphernalia and contempt of court. Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies encountered Gomez on a traffic stop and located the heroin, along with hypodermic needles on his person. Gomez has bond set at $10,000.

Gomez has one previous stay in the Washington Parish Jail. In 2017, he was arrested for possession of illegal drugs and drug paraphernalia. He served a couple of weeks in jail before posting a $6,000 bond for his release.

“A simple traffic stop sometimes turns into more serious charges,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Why was Gomez in Angie while possessing heroin? Likely, we’ll never know the answer to that question. We do know, however, that his heroin is now safely locked in our evidence vault until such time as Gomez stands before a 22nd Judicial District Court judge. I congratulate our alert officers who discovered the illegal substance and made the arrest.”

Washington Parish Jail Inmate Charged With Obscenity

WPSO Chief Criminal Deputy Mike Haley reports that Dakeithan Matthews, age 26, has been in the Washington Parish Jail since September 2021 after having been arrested by the Bogalusa Police Department for a litany of charges, including attempted murder, distribution of illegal drugs, four counts of possession of illegal drugs, possession of controlled dangerous substances with a weapon present and possession of drug paraphernalia. Bond was set at $162,500 on those charges.

Another charge was added on December 20, 2021 when Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office corrections deputies arrested him on a charge of obscenity after Matthews intentionally exposed his genitals to a female corrections deputy. After a review of electronic surveillance video of the incident by jail supervisory personnel, a warrant was obtained and Matthews was arrested on the obscenity charge.

Matthews has two previous arrests by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office. In 2012, he was charged with two counts of possession of illegal drugs. He was released the following day after posting a $10,000 bond. In 2017, Sheriff’s deputies again arrested Matthews on charges of murder, aggravated battery and simple battery. Bond was set at $205,000 and he was in jail for two and a half years before being released.

“Our corrections deputies have to tolerate lots of dysfunctional behavior from some of the most dysfunctional persons in our parish,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Matthews’ behavior while incarcerated is inexcusable. Our deputies followed professional procedure, seeking and obtaining a warrant. Now Mr. Matthews has one more charge to defend in court.”

Bogalusan Arrested on Att. Murder, Att. Kidnapping, Agg. Battery & Firearms Charges

According to the Bogalusa Police Department, on Thanksgiving night (November 25, 2021), BPD officers responded to Jr. Food Mart on Superior Avenue in reference to shots fired. The initial investigation revealed that a suspect, identified as Kelton Spann, struck the female victim in the head with a pistol, then shot at her as she tried to flee. Spann fled the area before police arrived.

Detectives took over the case, obtained surveillance video from the store, and recovered evidence from a cell phone dropped by Spann as he was fleeing. Arrest warrants were obtained, and a search warrant of his residence was obtained and executed on November 29, 2021. Spann was not there, but a number of firearms were recovered from the residence, including two that had been reported stolen. As Spann is a convicted felon, more arrest warrants were obtained.

On Tuesday (December 28, 2021), the Violent Crimes Task Force, who had been searching for Spann, received information that he was back at his residence in the 1900 block of Dewitt Place. Another search warrant was obtained for his residence. As Task Force Officers, along with Detectives and Criminal Patrol Officers got out at the residence, Spann fled out the back of the residence. After a short foot pursuit, Spann surrendered without further incident and was arrested.

Spann was charged with Attempted Second Degree Murder, Attempted Aggravated Kidnapping, Aggravated Battery, 7 Counts of Possession / Carrying a Weapon by a Convicted Felon, and 2 counts of Possession of a Stolen Firearm.

Spann has seven prior arrests by the Bogalusa Police Department for a variety of charges, including felony weapons and narcotics violations.

Obituary

Lorraine "Betty" Elizabeth Schertz Hughes

February 1, 1927 - December 20, 2021

Obituary

Charles L. Stogner

September 28, 1952 - December 27, 2021

Obituary

Eric Lavon Nelson

June 10, 1993 - December 19, 2021

Washington Parish Man Wanted for Rapes Captured in Texas

Today (December 28, 2021), Washington Parish Sheriff's Office Chief Criminal Deputy Mike Haley advised that Miguel Angel Manriquez, age 34 and a resident of Highway 16, had fled Washington Parish shortly after committing rapes in the Pine area on August 6, 2021. WPSO detectives investigating the rapes obtained a warrant for Manriquez’s arrest. The warrant was entered into the national criminal justice database so that any law enforcement contact in the United States would result in his arrest.

Manriquez was captured in El Paso, Texas, on December 5, 2021 and held by the Sheriff’s Office there until he could be extradited to Washington Parish. Details of his arrest are not available.

Extradition was approved by Texas authorities and Manriquez was transported to the Washington Parish Jail on December 20, 2021 at which time he was booked on three counts of rape. His bond was set at $750,000. Details of the rapes will not be revealed in order to protect the identity of his female victim.

Manriquez has one previous stay in the Washington Parish Jail. In 2008, he was booked into the jail on a charge of aggravated battery.

“We don’t know exactly where Manriquez was or what he was doing in the four months he was on the run,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “We do know that he is now in our custody and must face the District Attorney and the 22nd Judicial District Court to answer for his crimes. We are grateful to the El Paso County, Texas, Sheriff’s Office for holding him for us. This is a good example of the wonderful cooperation of law enforcement agencies throughout our great nation.”

Obituary

Dallas "Doc" Marshal Alford

March 27, 1931 - December 28, 2021

Driver Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash

On Monday (December 27, 2021) shortly after 11:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 10 north of U.S. Hwy 190 (Gause Blvd) in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of 22-year-old Allan Linarez of Panama City, Florida.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Linarez was westbound on Interstate 10 in a 2001 Chevrolet Suburban. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet exited the roadway to the right. After leaving the roadway, the Chevrolet overturned and traveled down an embankment.

Linarez was unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. Impairment is unknown, but a standard toxicology sample was obtained from the driver for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 27, 2021










Clarence Gaten (Ponchatoula, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Aggravated Battery, Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence, and Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Kristina Smith (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Interfering with a Law Enforcement Investigation, and Issuing Worthless Checks Under 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2250.00.

Davis Gomez (Foxworth, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court, Possession of Heroin, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Derran Mingo (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS (5 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Eric Archuleta (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Ja'kari Brown (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Display of License Plate, No Drivers License, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $201,000.00.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

December 27, 2021

Obituary

Elaine Burris

July 4, 1940 - December 21, 2021

Level II Endangered Missing Child Alert

The Louisiana State Police has issued a Level II Endangered Missing Child Advisory on behalf of the East Feliciana Sheriff’s Office for a 2-year-old child that was reported missing from his residence, 2047 Maglone Lane in Slaughter. The child was last seen with his father, Orin Hollingsworth, on Sunday at 4:30 p.m. and is believed to be in imminent danger.













Carson Jeffery Hollingsworth is a two-year-old white male with blonde hair and blue eyes. He is approximately 24” - 30” tall and weighs about 24 pounds. He was last seen wearing a white t-shirt with the words “Chilling with my Cousins” and a white and purple Luvs brand diaper. He was not wearing socks or shoes when he was last seen. Carson suffers from a severe medical condition that requires daily medication. 

Orin Hollingsworth is wanted for questioning in the child’s disappearance. Hollingsworth is a 35-year-old white male with brown hair, brown eyes and a beard. He is approximately 6’1” tall and weighs about 220 pounds. He is possibly driving a 2003 white Chevrolet Tahoe bearing Louisiana license plate 860EIT. 

Anyone with information as to the whereabouts of Carson Hollingsworth should immediately contact the East Feliciana Sheriff’s Office at 225-683-5459 or local law enforcement by dialing 911. 

Escaped Tangipahoa Parish Jail Inmate Captured in Washington Parish

Clarence Gaten, Jr., age 38, escaped the Tangipahoa Parish Jail in Amite over the weekend but was back in custody within 24 hours. Gaten had only been incarcerated for four days prior to his escape and was in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on the charges of failure to appear (2 counts) and resisting a police officer. Following his escape, TPSO added the charges of escape, attempted car jacking, and child endangerment. 

Following his escape, Gaten was seen behind Dirt Cheap in Amite and a perimeter established. However, it was soon learned that Gaten was seen in Washington Parish and the search for Gaten and his get-away driver shifted there. The get-away driver, whose name has not been released, was taken into custody. 

Gaten was booked into the Washington Parish Jail this morning (December 27, 2021) by the WPSO on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Aggravated Battery, Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, and Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot. More details of his capture will be provided when available. 

Gaten's Washington Parish Sheriff's Office booking photo is shown below the TPSO photo.

TPSO has expressed their thanks to the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, Amite Police Department, Independence Police Department, Louisiana State Police, and Rayburn Correctional Center for their combined efforts. 

Obituary

Iddo B. Fornea, Jr.

April 30, 1930 - December 25, 2021

Obituary

Hubert Daniel Wood

July 11, 1939 - December 24, 2021

Obituary

Patricia Hunt

July 21, 1944 - December 26, 2021

Obituary

Betty L. Hall

April 21, 1941 - December 24, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 26, 2021



Marvin Carter (Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Home Invasion/Simple Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10,000.00.

Denise Roberts (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs/Tetrahydrocannabinols or Synthetic Cannabinoids and Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $1000.00 bond.

Malik Patterson (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

James Singletary (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer (3 counts), Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Christian Hutton (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer (2 counts) and Carnal Knowledge of Juvenile by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Laquincy Stewart (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts), Careless Operation, and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

December 26, 2021

Two From Washington Parish Die in Crash Near Bogalusa

Shortly after 3:20 a.m. on December 26, 2021, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 21 north of Bogalusa in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the lives of 32-year-old Mallory Odom of Bogalusa, Louisiana and 31-year-old Kassi Creel of Franklinton, Louisiana.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as the driver, Mallory Odom, was southbound on LA Hwy 21in a 2017 Nissan Rogue. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan crossed the centerline and exited the roadway to the left. After leaving the roadway, the Nissan impacted a concrete culvert.

Both the driver and the passenger, Kassi Creel, were unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries. Both were pronounced deceased on the scene. Impairment is unknown, but a standard toxicology sample was obtained from the driver for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

The morning after Christmas day, the lives of two families have changed forever. Far too often, Troopers see the tragic consequences of preventable motor vehicle crashes. Troopers implore Louisiana motorists to make safe decisions behind the wheel. Please, speak to your loved ones today about the importance of always wearing a seatbelt, remind them to never drive impaired, and point out the dangers of distracted driving. The conversation you have could make all the difference.

Obituary

Henry Hershel Kennedy

February 27, 1925 - December 23, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 23-25, 2021








Jerry Baker (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court, Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info, Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS (2 counts), and Resisting Arrest by Flight by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Clyde B. Smith (Madisonville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation, Protective Order Violation (counts), and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $4000.00.

Brad Badeaux (Bush, La. address) was booked on the charge of Telephone Communications/Improper Language/Harassment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $1500.00 bond.

Kana Roberts (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Theresa Pittman (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs/Tetrahydrocannabinols or Synthetic Cannabinoids, Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Wesley Williams (Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Vehicle on an Officer, Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Failure to Use Turn Signal, License Plate Required, and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $50,000.00.

Dusty Hodges (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Phillip Fowler (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted Home Invasion, Simple Battery, Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, Criminal Trespass, and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Craig Painter (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Public Intimidation and Retaliation, Resisting an Officer, Probation Violation, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, Driving Under Suspension, and Ran Red Light by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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December 24, 2021

Today's Message From ADAPT

Learn more and "Like" ADAPT's Facebook page and visit their website. 

ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are 

  1. To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
  2. To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
  3. To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
  4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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December 23, 2021

Obituary

Rodney Ellis Carrier

January 8, 1940 - December 21, 2021

Obituary

Heyward Ard

November 1, 1937 - December 22, 2021

Obituary

Regina Williams

September 28, 1930 - December 18, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 21-22, 2021






Jared Hillery (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation an Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Hunter Coats (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tobias Odom (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule III CDS, Malfeasance in Office, and Attempted Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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December 22, 2021

Bogalusa Council Elects Kellis & Douglas as President & VP for 2022

The Bogalusa Council met on Tuesday (December 21, 2021) evening and, in a process presided over by Attorney Dale Branch, elected a Council President and Vice-President to lead the Council in 2022. Kenny Kellis (Councilman, District D) was elected President and Penny Douglas (Council at Large) was elected Vice-President. 

The City's bond attorney David Wolfe and Mayor Wendy Perrette provided information regarding the process of calling an election to be held on April 30, 2022. To be considered is a 5 mil garbage tax, which was previously defeated in November 2021, and a .25 cent sales tax. The bond attorney and the Mayor provided relevant details regarding the propositions and stressed the importance of passage of the taxes. (The lengthy discussion begins at 2:20 into the video)

In other business, the Council 

  • approved an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into an Employment Contract with The Sisung Securities Corporation, in New Orleans, Louisiana, for Municipal Advisory Services to the City of Bogalusa 
  • approved an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to request proposals for replacing water meters as needed including the hardware and software which is compatible with the current system. 

Following Council comments, the meeting adjourned. The next meeting will be January 4, 2021 at 5:30 P.M.

Bogalusa Council 12212021.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Obituary

Betty Dees Cade

November 02, 1943 - December 21, 2021

Parish Council Resolutions to Assist Franklinton, Bogalusa, Varnado, & Angie

When they met Monday (December 20, 2021) evening, the Washington Parish Council approved resolutions that are renewals of the Parish's commitment to assist the governmental entities within the parish. By intergovernmental agreements, the Town of Franklinton, the City of Bogalusa, and the villages of Varnado and Angie pay material costs associated with their projects and Parish Government supplies the equipment and manpower. The Council also

  • approved resolutions of appointment for Fire District No. 8. Board of Directors, Fire District No. 4. Board of Directors, Fire District No. 7. Board of Directors, and Fire District No. 3. Board of Directors
  • authorized the Parish President to sign an agreement between Meyer Engineers, LTD and Washington Parish Government to provide engineering services for sidewalk construction in downtown Franklinton through State Project No. H014913
  • authorized the Parish President to sign an intergovernmental agreement with the Town of Franklinton for sidewalk improvements in downtown Franklinton through State Project No. H.014913
  • authorized the allocation of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds for the extension of broadband services in Washington Parish and 
  • adopted the 2022 Annual Operating Budget of the Washington Parish Tourism Commission.

Parish President Thomas (beginning at 16:00 into video of the meeting), read and presented a Proclamation to Gary Cooper Magee in recognition of his 61 years of coaching, teaching, mentoring and leading members of the City of Bogalusa, the Town of Franklinton and the St. Tammany and Washington Parishes. In addition, Thomas provided an update on COVID 19, Public Works Director Ken Wheat and Transportation Manager Donnell Merritt reported and commented on achievements during 2021, as did President Thomas. Their comments primarily recognized the contributions by parish government employees.

Attorney Wayne Kuhn (beginning at 37:30 into the video) reported on the progress of a draft of an ordinance being prepared by a contracted law firm. The draft is designed to guide the Council in regulating proposed solar power projects. Receipt of the draft is expected soon.

WP Council 12202021.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

RCC Employees Recognized at Awards Ceremony

Rayburn Correctional Center has announced the employees recognized during the Annual Employee Awards Ceremony for their outstanding performance and dedication to their profession. 

Receiving the Secretary’s Award of Excellence were Stephanie Buhrer, Master Sgt. Joseph Branch, and Linda Sandifer. 

Receiving the Distinguished Service Award was Lt. Johnny Hill.  

Obituary

Richard Jenkins

January 31, 1947 - December 20, 2021

Obituary

Rita Stuart Wood

March 12, 1941 - December 20, 2021

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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December 21, 2021

RCC Prisoner Organizations Donate Bikes for Children

Rayburn Correctional Center (RCC) prisoner organizations came together to play Santa Clause and donated bicycles for less fortunate children in Southeast Louisiana. They bought and donated the bicycles to the Department of Children and Family Services. The generous RCC prisoner organizations are The Incarcerated Veterans, Jaycees and Toastmasters.

Pictured in the front row are Warden Travis Day, MSgt. Cecilia Light, Ashley Sheridan (DCFS), Assistant Warden Karla Wheat, and Allie Harris (DCFS)


.