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June 30, 2021

Help Locate This 15 Year-Old From Lacombe



City of Bogalusa Job Postings: Director of Administration and Building Official

The City of Bogalusa is soliciting resumes for Director of Administration and Building Official. Interested persons can apply by submitting a resume to judy.gray@bogalusa.org.

Obituary

Eddie L. King, Sr.

September 16, 1936 - June 27, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 29, 2021



Krishun Williams was booked on the charges of Simple Obstruction of Highway, Driving Under Suspension, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

Shawn Howell was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Clinton Crain was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tyler Magee was booked on the charges of Aggravated Second Degree Battery, Criminal Trespass, and Contempt of Court (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Dallas Magee was booked on the charges of Second Degree Battery and Criminal Trespass by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Outlook Today

Disturbance 1. A broad area of low pressure, associated with a tropical wave, is located about midway between the west coast of Africa and the Windward Islands.  This system is showing organization and environmental conditions appear generally favorable for development. A tropical depression is likely to form during the next few days while the system moves west-northwestward at about 20 mph. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 60% and formation chance through 5 days is at 80%. 

Disturbance 2. A tropical wave located just east of the Lesser Antilles is unlikely to develop while it moves quickly westward to west-northwestward at 20 to 25 mph, passing through the Lesser Antilles today and then across the eastern and central Caribbean Sea later this week. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 10% and formation chance through 5 days is also at 10%.



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)

June 29, 2021

20 Arrested in Nearby Marion County in Operation "Cracked Pipe"

The Marion County (MS) Sheriff's Office has advised that On June 26, 2021, Marion County Sheriff's Office with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Marion County Constables, and MDOC Probation and Parole were up and at it early serving (2) residential search warrants and rounding up drug violators in Marion County. 

The first search warrant was served at 150 Lampton Hilltop Road, in Columbia. Investigators seized 106.66 grams of Methamphetamine, 36.86 grams of Cocaine, 29.47 grams of Crack Cocaine, 28.27 grams of Marijuana, Multiple dosage units of Ecstasy, Scales, Bagging Materials, Currency, a 7.62 X 39 mm Rifle, and (2) 9 mm Pistols. Evan and Tawanda Lampton were arrested and Child Protective Services (CPS) were called and responded in reference to a juvenile present at the residence.


The next stop was 524 Highway 98 West in Kokomo. Investigators seized 94.37 grams of Cocaine, 3.15 grams of Methamphetamine, a plethora of Prescription Narcotics, as well as a Firearm. Breanna McKenzie, Betty Quinn, and Robert Earl Magee Jr were arrested and Child Protective Services (CPS) were called and responded in reference to an infant present at the residence. Alton Weary is wanted in reference to this case and is still at large.

The following people were arrested during the Operation....

Bogalusa Fire Department Now Hiring



These Persons Need to Contact Bogalusa City Court



Obituary

John Riel Nielsen

February 06, 1937 - June 28, 2021

Obituary

Donald Ray Magee, Sr.

December 17, 1945 - June 25, 2021

Slidell Man Gets 60 Years for Armed Robbery

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Derrick Head, age 31 and of Slidell, pleaded guilty as charged yesterday (June 28, 2021) to one count of armed robbery and one count of possession of a firearm by a felon as trial was beginning Monday morning.  Head also pled guilty as charged to misdemeanor resisting an officer. He was sentenced by District Judge Scott Gardner to 60 years for armed robbery, 40 years for possession of a firearm by a felon, and 6 months for resisting an officer. 

According to the Slidell Police Department, at 11:17 PM on July 23, 2019, they responded to a 9-1-1 call from the victim. The victim, while in her vehicle at an ATM, was approached by the defendant who pointed a gun at her face and told her, “give me all your money.” She was in the middle of making a deposit, but with quick thinking she sped away. The ATM card was left in the machine. She immediately called emergency services and gave a description of Head.

Officers Morris and Goleman, who were only a few blocks away from the location, were on the scene in seconds and observed the defendant in the bank parking lot. The defendant saw the officers and fled on foot. Officer Morris was forced to deploy his K-9, Kano, who apprehended the defendant as he attempted to jump a chain link fence. Head continued to struggle and was laying on his left side which posed potential danger to the officers as he may have been attempting to retrieve the firearm he had during the crime.

Officers had Head in custody by 11:21 PM, just four minutes from the time of the 9-1-1 call. On the scene, officers retrieved a semi-automatic firearm, the victim’s bank card, and ATM receipt from the other side of the fence the defendant had attempted to climb. Head was a convicted felon on parole for two prior armed robbery convictions out of New Orleans at the time he robbed this latest victim at gunpoint.

D.A. Warren Montgomery stated, “I commend the exceptional work of the Slidell Police who were on scene within a minute of the crime. I am also grateful for the victim’s courage in participating with law enforcement throughout this case.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Carolyn Chkautovich and Roy Burns.

Obituary

Michael Lee Burnside

June 17, 1962 - June 25, 2021

Obituary

Carolyn Powell

January 20, 1942 - June 28, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 28, 2021






Selena Quave was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Brandon Brister was booked on the charges of Bond Surrender and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $12500.00.

Angela Westmoreland was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

Tropical Outlook Today

Disturbance 1. The remnants of what was Tropical Cyclone Danny is moving west-northwestward  bringing heavy rainfall across portions of northern Georgia and Alabama. 

Disturbance 2.  A tropical wave located over the tropical Atlantic is about 850 miles east of the Lesser Antilles.  Some slow development of this disturbance is possible later this week and this weekend while the system moves westward to west-northwestward at 15 to 20 mph. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 30% and formation chance through 5 days is at 40%. 

Disturbance 3. A tropical wave located about 800 miles southwest of the Cabo Verde islands has become a little better organized since yesterday.  Additional slow development of this system is possible during the next several days as it moves generally west-northwestward at about 20 mph. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 10% and formation chance through 5 days is at 20%. 



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)

June 28, 2021

Bogalusa's 4th of July Parade and Fireworks is July 3rd

The American Legion's annual 4th of July parade will be held on Saturday, July 3rd beginning at 10:00 A.M. The parade will take the traditional route beginning on Columbia Street and ending in the Bogalusa High School (Willis Avenue) parking lot. The fireworks display is scheduled to take place at the Bogalusa High School Stadium at dusk.
  


Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 25-27, 2021



Graylon Dillon was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Joshua Miller was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated/Underage, Improper Lane Usage, and Speed Unsafe for Road Conditions by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.

Christopher Touchstone was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Driving While Intoxicated/Underage, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Larry Covington was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery, Resisting an Officer, and Attempted Escape by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Akeila Buie was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Tabitha Lowe was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Marc Fortney was booked on the charges of Improper Backing/Accident and Possession of Heroin by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kelli English was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Resisting an Officer, and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Anthony Mitchell was booked on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Blair Mason was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, Careless Operation, Driving Under Suspension, Failure to Report Accident, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Jonathan Spencer was booked on the charges of Telephone Communications/Improper Language/Harassment/Penalty, Aggravated Assault, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Timothy Ruffino was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Outlook Today

Disturbance 1. A well-defined low pressure system is located about 190 miles east-southeast of Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, and any additional increase in organization would result in the issuance of advisories for a tropical depression or tropical storm later this morning or afternoon.  The low is forecast to move west-northwestward at 15 to 20 mph, and the system should reach the coast of southern South Carolina or Georgia by this evening.  If advisories are initiated, then tropical storm warnings could be required for a portion of the Georgia and South Carolina coasts with short notice. Formation chance through 48 hours is high at 70% and formation chance through 5 days is also high at 70%. 

Disturbance 2. A broad area of low pressure associated with a tropical wave is over the central tropical Atlantic Ocean.  Some slow development is possible through the end of the week while this system moves quickly westward to west-northwestward at about 20 mph, likely reaching the Lesser Antilles Wednesday night. Formation chance through 48 hours is low at 20% and formation chance through 5 days is medium at 40%. 



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)

June 26, 2021

Missing Madisonville Woman’s Vehicle Found Submerged Off I-10 in Mississippi

A vehicle matching the description of the one being driven by Courtney Johnson, a Madisonville woman reported missing on June 24, 2021, has been located submerged in a body of water just off Interstate 10 in Mississippi.

Friday (June 25, 2021) morning, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s detectives were searching for Johnson along the I-10 corridor in Mississippi when they observed an area where a vehicle had recently exited the roadway. Mississippi authorities were notified and began their search in the adjacent water. Shortly after 2:00 p.m., Mississippi authorities recovered Johnson’s 2016 Mazda 6, which appeared to have driven off the roadway. The car was found submerged in a body of water off Interstate 10 approximately eight miles from the state line. A body was located inside, but it is unknown at this time if the body is that of the 34-year-old missing woman.

The Mississippi Highway Patrol is handling the investigation into the fatal crash; However foul play is not suspected.

Click here for the missing notice posted earlier

Obituary

Kenneth Wayne Smith

April 5, 1940 - June 25, 2021

Tropical Outlook Today

A tropical wave over the eastern tropical Atlantic Ocean is expected to move westward at 15 to 20 mph through the weekend over marginally and any  development should be slow to occur. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 10% and formation chance through 5 days is also at 10%. 



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)

June 25, 2021

Gov. Edwards Vetoes Permitless Firearms Carry Bill

Today (June 25, 2021), Gov. John Bel Edwards issued a statement on Senate Bill 118, which he vetoed on Thursday evening. The Senate approved it 27-9 and the House 73-28. The Bill would have allowed "permitless" concealed carry, also known as constitutional carry, of a firearm by a Louisiana resident – provided the Louisiana resident was in compliance with other provisions of the Bill, such as: completion of a 60-minute online education course, not under the influence of alcohol as evidenced by a BAC of .05%, not under the influence of a controlled dangerous substance as evidenced by blood or urine tests, and not prohibited by the provisions of R.S. 14:95.  

Gov. Edwards said: “I am a strong supporter of the Second Amendment, and an enthusiastic outdoorsman and hunter. But I simply cannot support carrying a concealed carry firearm without proper education and safety training – and I believe the majority of Louisianans agree with me. Our current system strikes the right balance of ensuring that people can bear arms while also keeping reasonable permitting and training processes in place. It is a matter of basic public safety and numerous law enforcement leaders across the state opposed the bill for this reason, especially as it relates to the enhanced risk posed to their officers. Simply put, it is not too much to ask that a person who wishes to carry a concealed weapon in public be required to attend basic marksmanship and safety training so they understand the regulations associated with such an action. That’s reasonable and responsible, and for these reasons, I have vetoed the permitless carry bill.”      

As of June 16, 2021, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, Idaho, Iowa (effective July 1, 2021), Kansas,  Kentucky, Maine, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, North Dakota (residents only; concealed carry only), Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee (residents only; handguns only; effective July 1, 2021), Texas (effective September 1, 2021), Utah, Vermont, West Virginia, and Wyoming do not require a permit to carry a loaded concealed firearm for any person of age who is not prohibited from owning a firearm.  

This veto gives impetus to the movement to hold what would be the state’s first veto override session. 

We'll see!

Hammond PD Seizes Jet & Marijuana Worth $1.6 Million

The Hammond Police Department reported today (June 25, 2021) that on Wednesday (June 23, 2021), detectives with the HPD Narcotics Unit began investigating a report that a large amount of narcotics was en route to the Hammond Northshore Regional Airport from California, with the final destination in Miami, Florida.

HPD detectives, along with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs Air and Marine Division, went to the airport and conducted surveillance. At approximately 5:00 pm, a Learjet 55 landed and was attempting to purchase fuel. The pilot gave detectives permission to search the aircraft. During the search, detectives located six large canvas duffle bags and six large suitcases all containing suspected marijuana, marijuana vape cartridges and pre-rolled marijuana cigars. The street value of the items seized is approximately $750,000.
















Three suspects were detained and interviewed. The two pilots were released, and the passenger, Leonard Lopez, 40 years old from Miami, Florida, was arrested.

The aircraft, a LearJet 55, was seized and is pending forfeiture through the 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office. The total amount of seized items is over $1.6 million.

Man Found Guilty of Murder In Death Of 6-Week Old Son

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Thursday (June 24, 2021), a St. Tammany Parish jury unanimously found Anthony Dearmas, age 29 and of New Orleans, guilty as charged of first-degree murder in the death of his son, 6-week-old son Karter Smith. Dearmas had already been found guilty of this crime in 2019 by a non-unanimous jury (11-1) but based on a recent US Supreme Court ruling, qualified for a re-trial.

In the early morning of May 10, 2017, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies were called to a mobile home in Slidell, where they found a severely injured infant. The baby’s mother testified that she had left her 6-week-old twin boys and 3-year-old son home with Dearmas while she worked the graveyard shift. She said that she was still at work when she received a call from Dearmas, who told her that Karter, one of the twins, had been dropped by the 3-year old and was unresponsive.

The panicked mother called for help from a relative. The relative testified that when he walked in the house, he found Dearmas, sitting on the sofa, staring blankly at the child, who was “blue, had a mushy belly and was foaming from the mouth”.

The relative made the call to 9-1-1. The recorded 9-1-1 call was played in Court and Dearmas could be heard repetitively shouting “[expletive] them” (the paramedics) while the relative was begging him to hand the baby over to paramedics. A deputy on the scene ultimately grabbed the infant from Dearmas. The infant was rushed to the hospital but died from his injuries three days later.

Police took Dearmas in for questioning later that morning. In a video interview, Dearmas initially stated that he had been taking a shower and that Karter’s 3-year-old sibling had picked him up and dropped him twice. When challenged, because as the deputy testified “the injuries were too severe for this version to be true,” Dearmas changed his story to say that he fell twice with the baby in his arms. Upon being further challenged, he admitted that he had become frustrated by the screaming child, and “slapped” him twice, knocking him to the floor, stating, “I was caught in a flashback” and “Yea, I lost control and hit the baby.” In trial, it was proved that the truth of his actions against the child was even more extreme than this last version of his story. Assistant District Attorney Tiffany Dover stated during trial, “this was the ultimate way to silence the baby.”

Defense attorneys argued that Karter’s death was a manslaughter, not first-degree murder because Dearmas did not intend to kill the child. Prosecutors rebutted lack of intent because of the extreme “force” used upon the child and the “number” of significant injuries. Dr. Michael DeFatta of the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s office testified that these were “intentional acts” which resulted in pulmonary contusion and seven skull fractures indicative of a crushing act. Assistant District Attorney Angad Ghai said in closing, “you don’t get to do this to a newborn and then later say you didn’t intend to injure them.” To further prove intent, prosecutors pointed to Dearmas’ videotaped interview in which he admitted to striking the child once and walking away, “I tried to check myself and just couldn’t.” When discussing the term “average person” used in manslaughter law, Ghai stated to the jury, “You have kids, your friends have kids and those babies cried…but you didn’t kill them.”

The jury deliberated about 3 hours before voting unanimously in favor of the first-degree murder conviction and cruelty charges, rejecting the manslaughter as well as the not guilty by reason of insanity defenses.

D.A. Warren Montgomery extends his appreciation to all involved in this case as the outcome would not have been possible without this team effort. That team was: Assistant District Attorney’s Angad Ghai and Tiffany Dover, St. Tammany Sheriff’s Department Deputy Scott Daussin, Timothy Crabtree, formerly of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, now with Homeland Security. Dr. Rafael Salcedo, Dr. Michael DeFatta, Dr. Michelle Garriga, and Jason Dammon with the Attorney General’s office.

Dearmas faces mandatory life in prison with no possibility of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence when he is sentenced on August 26th before District Judge Alan Zaunbrecher.

Obituary

Zelia Jenkins Parker

November 26, 1929 - June 23, 2021

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 24, 2021






Steven Landers was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of CDS in Presence of Juvenile, and Speeding 11-20 Over Limit by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Austin Lang was booked In For Court

Reese Kirkland was booked on the charge of Criminal Damage by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $3500.00 bond.

Tropical Outlook Today

A strong tropical wave over the far eastern Atlantic should be slow to develop, if at all, as it moves westward to west-northwestward at 15 to 20 mph across the tropical eastern and central Atlantic through the middle of next week. Formation chance through 48 is at 10% and formation chance through 5 days is at 20%. 



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)

June 24, 2021

Advisory Council on Rural Revitalization Releases Strategic Plan Report

Yesterday (June 23, 2021), Gov. John Bel Edwards announced that the Advisory Council on Rural
Revitalization, chaired by former state Sen. Ben Nevers, has released its Strategic Plan Report. The council was created to identify the needs and issues facing Louisiana’s vital rural communities. 

In creating the Council, Edwards recognized that citizens of rural communities “bear a disproportionate burden of poverty and lack of adequate access to healthcare, education, broadband and other essential needs.” 

The council’s report identifies four key recommendations for improving quality of life in Louisiana’s rural regions: 

  • expanding broadband access across the state; 
  • improving infrastructure; 
  • developing and expanding workforce training and higher education opportunities; and 
  • maintaining and expanding agriculture centers in the state’s university systems.

“The Advisory Council on Rural Revitalization report came together through participation by 37 rural stakeholders appointed by the Governor, the Office of Rural Development and the Resilient Louisiana Commission. 

So, what happens next? We'll have to wait and see.

Click here for the Governor's press release.

Click here for the 61-page Strategic Plan Report.

Help STPSO Find This Missing Woman



Obituary

Winfred Harold Brown

February 9, 1928 - June 23, 2021

Franklinton Mayor and Board of Aldermen Meeting for June 22, 2021

Cornerstone Church Feeds Sheriff's Employees

Today (June 24, 2021), the Cornerstone Church of Franklinton treated employees of the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office to lunch in appreciation for all Sheriff Seal and his employees do for the parish. Boxed meals were delivered to WPSO offices in Franklinton and Bogalusa by Pastor Mervin and Dasha Strother and Joe Felder.

“We often mention our law enforcement partners,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “They are so important to us. Equally important are our faith partners throughout the parish. Prayers and support of our faith partners do so much to undergird our deputies, detectives and office employees as we strive to be the best we can be for the citizens of Washington Parish. I am so grateful to Reverend and Mrs. Strother, Joe Felder and all the faithful members of Cornerstone Church of Franklinton. The meal was delicious and our employees thoroughly enjoyed it.”

Spring Valley Road Man Jailed on Drug Charges

On Wednesday (June 23, 2021), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Drug Task Force detectives arrested Toby Allen Mizell, age 39 and a resident of Spring Valley Road. Mizell was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on two counts of possession of illegal drugs and a traffic offense. 

Mizell has several previous arrests in Washington Parish. After a felony failure to appear in court charge in 2007, he was arrested again in 2008 for issuing worthless checks. His next arrest was eight years later when he was charged with contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile, possession of illegal drugs, contempt of court, two counts of failure to appear in court and driving while under suspension. The following year he was arrested on three counts of failure to appear in court. Later the same year he was arrested for two counts of contempt of court and two counts of failure to appear in court. In 2019, he was arrested for domestic abuse battery and failure to appear in court. His final previous arrest in 2020 was for felony failure to appear in court.

“It seems Mr. Mizell has problems meeting his court appearance obligations,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Not appearing in court when scheduled to do so only compounds whatever other legal problems one may have. I appreciate the good work of our detectives in this matter.”

Bogalusa Man With Lengthy Arrest Record Back in Jail

While patrolling on Spring Valley Road south of Bogalusa on Wednesay (June 23, 2021), a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy encountered Terry Vonsha Buckhanan, age 23 and a resident of Avenue E. Buckhanan was wanted on an outstanding warrant for failure to appear in court for a domestic abuse with strangulation charge. Buckhanan was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail.

He has previous stays in the Washington Parish Jail beginning in 2017 when he faced multiple charges including carjacking, robbery, battery and eight counts of vehicle burglary. This was followed by a 2018 arrest for probation violation and second degree battery. Later in 2018, he was remanded to jail by a 22nd Judicial District Court Judge. He was arrested in 2019 for parole violation. In 2020, he faced charges of domestic abuse with strangulation, resisting an officer and disturbing the peace. In March 2021 he was arrested for possession of illegal drugs, resisting an officer, obstruction of justice and disturbing the peace in a violent manner.

“Mr. Buckhanan seems determined to continue his pattern of being arrested,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I’m not certain what issues he has, but anger management seems to be one of them. Good job, deputy!”

WPSO Arrests Baton Rouge Man South of Angie on Multiple Charges

On Wednesday (June 23, 2021), a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputy responded to Highway 21 south of Angie to investigate a report of a stolen vehicle being in the area. The deputy located 30 year-old Malachi K. Campbell, who gave his address as Cable Street in Baton Rouge. Campbell was in possession of the stolen vehicle and  inside the vehicle was a 9mm semi-automatic pistol belonging to Campbell.

Campbell, a convicted felon, was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail where he was booked on charges of theft of a motor vehicle, possession of stolen property, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, unauthorized entry into an inhabited dwelling and simple battery with injury.

“Once again our officer made a good arrest and was able to get the vehicle back to the rightful owner,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “An arrest without incident is always a good arrest.”

Gov. Edwards Veto of Sen. Mizell's Bill Getting Pushback

Gov. John Bel Edwards issued a press release Tuesday (June 22, 2021) that he vetoed Senate Bill 156 authored by Sen. Beth Mizell during the 2021 Regular Legislative Session. The bill, known as the Fairness in Women’s Sports Act, sought to prevent transgender girls and women from participating on athletic teams or in sporting events designated for girls or women at elementary, secondary and postsecondary schools. The proposal passed with bipartisan veto-proof margins: a 29-6 vote in the Senate and a 78-19 vote in the House. 

Click here to read Senate Bill 156

Edwards labeled the bill as discriminatory, indicated that the bill was unnecessary, said the bill would make life more difficult for transgender children, and stated that “it makes it more likely that NCAA and professional championships, like the 2022 Final Four, would not happen in our state. Click here for the Governor's press release.

In a Facebook post following the veto, Mizell stated "To put it simply, I disagree with the Governor's opinion on this. A lot." Mizell maintains that "the Fairness in Women’s Sports Bill protects athletic competition for biological women. Without protection, there will be men's sports and coed sports but there will not be women's sports."  Mizell is in favor of a veto session for the Legislature to consider overriding the Governor's veto. 

Attorney General Jeff Landry issued a statement encouraging the Legislature to hold a veto session. Recognizing that the bill had bipartisan support, Landry stated that the bill was a “common-sense approach by the Legislature to protect women.” Click here for the Attorney General's press release.

The veto has received widespread state and national coverage, often recognizing that the veto by Edwards is from the Deep South's only Democratic governor and that similar bills have been passed in several states, including Mississippi, Tennessee, and Arkansas. As examples of the coverage and to learn more, Click here for a story from The Hayride. Click here for a story from U.S. News & World Report, and Click here for a story from NPR.

Reports are that, if a veto override session were held this year, it would begin July 20 and could last through July 24. House leadership has indicated support for a veto session but there has been no indication of Senate support. We'll see!

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 23, 2021



Melissa Cox was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Lane Usage, No Drivers License, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule V Drugs, and Illegal Use of CDS in Presence of Person Under 17 YOA by the Louisiana State Police. Released on $7500.00 bond.

Kenneth Loper was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule 1 Drugs (2 counts), Distribution of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Switched License Plates, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Possession of Schedule V Drugs, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $203000.00.

Malachi Campbell was booked on the charges of Possession of Stolen Things 1000-5000, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Theft of a Motor Vehicle 1000-5000, Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, and Simple Battery with Injury by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $75000.00.

Terry Buckhanan was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Toby Mizell was booked on the charges of No Turn Signals, Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Outlook Today

Disturbance 1. Disorganized shower and thunderstorm activity is decreasing this morning to the east of a small area of low pressure located more than 100 miles east-southeast of Barbados.  Increasing upper-level winds are likely to prevent further development of this system during the next couple of days while it moves west-northwestward at about 10 mph.  Formation chance through 48 hours is at only 10% and formation chance through 5 days is also at 10%. 

Disturbance 2. A strong tropical wave has emerged just off the coast of Africa this morning.  A small tropical depression could form by early next week while this system moves westward to west-northwestward at about 15 mph across the tropical eastern and central Atlantic Ocean. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 20% and formation chance through 5 days is at 40%. 



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)

June 23, 2021

Obituary

Rev. Fannie Amelia Thompson

December 10, 1941 - June 18, 2021

Obituary

Dr. Willie Robert "Bob" Wallace

December 5, 1938 - June 22, 2021

Dr. Emily Harrison Joins Our Lady of the Angels Pediatric Clinic

Our Lady of the Angels Pediatric Clinic is proud to welcome Emily Harrison, MD to its team of care providers. Dr. Harrison joins the talented team of pediatricians at Our Lady of the Lake Children’s Health – Bogalusa, serving families across Washington Parish and surrounding communities. She brings pediatric emergency medicine experience from her previous role at Children’s Hospital New Orleans. In 2014, she completed her pediatric residency where she was Chief Resident of the Department of Pediatrics at the Louisiana State University School of Medicine.

Dr. Harrison is a Louisiana native and a graduate of Tulane University where she earned a Bachelor of Arts in History. She went on to earn her Doctor of Medicine from the Louisiana State School of Medicine in New Orleans. Dr. Harrison has earned numerous academic awards, honors and distinctions. She is licensed by the Louisiana State Board of Medical Examiners and is board-certified by the American Board of Pediatrics. Her training includes certifications in Pediatric Advanced Life Support, Advanced Trauma Life Support and Advanced Cardiac Life Support.

Dr. Harrison has demonstrated a deep passion and commitment to improving the health and well-being of children and their families. She is looking forward to lending her expertise to improving the health of children in Bogalusa and across Washington Parish.

Tickfaw Woman Wanted on Pornography Charges

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office is asking for assistance in locating 41-year -old Tickfaw resident, Erin Chedville. 

Chedville is wanted on (2) Counts of Pornography involving Juveniles and (1 ) Count of Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile. 

Anyone knowing of Chedville's whereabouts is asked to contact Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa, Inc., Inc. at (800) 554-5245.

Covington-area Woman Charged with Solicitation for Murder

Mykia Tyson, age 20 and of the Covington-area, has been arrested for Solicitation for Murder and accused of soliciting four teenagers to kill her former girlfriend’s new boyfriend in Lacombe earlier this month.

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Office arrested Tyson on June 10, 2021 on two counts of Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property and one count each of Possession of Marijuana and Contributing to the Delinquency of Juveniles. She was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail. Pursuant to the investigation, a charge for Solicitation for Murder was added on June 21, 2021.

On June 5, 2021, STPSO deputies were dispatched to a residence on Pine Acres Road in Lacombe after a homeowner called to report his home being struck by gunfire. After an extensive and lengthy investigation, STPSO detectives learned Tyson had solicited Delester Magee (age 18 and of Abita Springs) and three juveniles to kill an occupant of the residence, after she found out he was in a relationship with her former girlfriend. Tyson drove the four to the Pine Acres Road residence to commit the murder, but Magee decided at the last moment not to follow through with the initial plan and instead fired multiple rounds into the residence.  

Magee was arrested on June 15, 2021 and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on one count each of Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, Contributing to the Delinquency of Juveniles and Criminal Conspiracy. The three juveniles, a 16-year-old male from Abita Springs, a 16-year-old male from Covington and a 17-year-old male from Abita Springs, were arrested for Conspiracy to Commit Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property and released via custodial agreement.

“Thankfully no one was hurt during this crime, but this could have very easily not been the case,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “Gunfire is not the answer, and we will continue to take crimes like this very seriously in St. Tammany Parish.”

Wanted for Bank Fraud - May be in Kentwood Area



Obituary

Linda Marie Adams

May 01, 1942 - June 21, 2021

Obituary

Charles Sherwin Williams

January 25, 1935 - June 22, 2021

Today's Message From ADAPT

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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.
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  4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

“Waterbugs And Dragonflies” by Doris Stickney

Down below the surface of a quiet pond lived a little colony of waterbugs. They were a happy colony, living far away from the sun. For many months they were very busy, scurrying over the soft mud on the bottom of the pond.

They did not notice that every once in a while one of their colony seemed to lose interest in going about with its friends. Clinging to the stem of a pond lily, it gradually moved out of sight and was seen no more.

‘Look!' said one of the waterbugs to another. ‘One of our colony is climbing up the lily stalk. Where do you suppose she is going?' Up, up, up it went slowly. Even as they watched, the waterbug disappeared from sight. Its friends waited and waited but it didn't return.

‘That's funny!' said one water bug to another. ‘Wasn't she happy here?' asked a second waterbug. ‘Where do you suppose she went?' wondered a third. No one had an answer. They were greatly puzzled.

Finally one of the waterbugs, a leader in the colony, gathered its friends together. ‘I have an idea. The next one of us who climbs up the lily stalk must promise to come back and tell us where he or she went and why.'

‘We promise', they said solemnly.

One spring day, not long after, the very waterbug who had suggested the plan found himself climbing up the lily stalk. Up, up, up he went. Before he knew what was happening, he had broken through the surface of the water, and fallen onto the broad, green lily pad above.

When he awoke, he looked about with surprise. He couldn't believe what he saw. A startling change had come to his old body. His movement revealed four silver wings and a long tail. Even as he struggled, he felt an impulse to move his wings. The warmth of the sun soon dried the moisture from the new body. He moved his wings again and suddenly found himself up above the water.

He had become a dragonfly.

Swooping and dipping in great curves, he flew through the air. He felt exhilarated in the new atmosphere.

By and by, the new dragonfly lighted happily on the lily pad to rest. Then it was that he chanced to look below to the bottom of the pond. Why, he was right above his old friends, the waterbugs! There they were, scurrying about, just as he had been doing some time before.

Then the dragonfly remembered the promise: ‘The next one of us who climbs up the lily stalk will come back and tell where he or she went and why.'

Without thinking, the dragonfly darted down. Suddenly he hit the surface of the water and bounced away. Now that he was a dragonfly, he could no longer go into the water.

‘I can't return!' he said in dismay. ‘At least I tried, but I can't keep my promise. Even if I could go back, not one of the waterbugs would know me in my new body. I guess I'll just have to wait until they become dragonflies too. Then they'll understand what happened to me, and where I went.'

And the dragonfly winged off happily into its wonderful new world of sun and air.

—————————

“There is no death, daughter. People die only when we forget them,' my mother explained shortly before she left me. 'If you can remember me, I will be with you always.” ― Isabel Allende, Eva Luna

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 22, 2021



Ardtaveon Dyson was booked on the charges of Illegal Discharge/Use of Weapon, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Speeding 11-20 Over Limit, No Drivers License, and Proper Equipment Required by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Alex Weary was booked on the charges of License Plate Improper Display, Resisting an Officer, Obstruction of Justice, Possession of Marijuana (3rd Offense), Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Expired License Plate by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Lucas Luper was booked In From Court

June Crumedy was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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June 22, 2021

Missing Man Believed to be in Washington Parish

UPDATE: Ashley Thomas has been located and is safe.






Obituary

John Lyle Ferguson

May 01, 1947 - June 20, 2021

Oklahoma Fugitive Arrested in Washington Parish

An Oklahoma fugitive who removed his ankle monitor and fled the state following charges of Armed Robbery and Aggravated Assault was arrested today (June 22, 2021) at a residence on Jerry Moses Road in northeast Washington Parish.

Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives accompanied the United States Marshal’s Fugitive Task Force to the residence where 18 year-old June Aquuarius Crumedy was taken into custody without incident. Crumedy was transported to the Washington Parish Jail where he will remain until extradited to Oklahoma.

“We are always willing to assist our federal law enforcement partners when called upon,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “At the same time, they are always willing to assist us. That’s the way law enforcement agencies work, even across jurisdictional boundaries and state lines.”