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January 31, 2022

Obituary

Lloyd Bowman Russell

October 29, 1953 - January 30, 2022

Obituary

Kathy Susie Crain

March 12, 1962 - January 29, 2022

Slidell Man Jailed for Attack on Neighbor

On Saturday (January 29, 2022), St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Eagle Lake Trailer Park, located at 1200 Eagle Lake Drive, in reference to a reported aggravated burglary.

Deputies discovered 59-year-old Thomas Bakes suffering from numerous injuries sustained after being attacked by someone who had entered his home abruptly and uninvited. Bakes was able to identify the suspect as his neighbor, 30-year-old Joshua Penton, before being transported to a local area hospital to be treated.

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies quickly located Penton and place him in custody. Major Crime’s detectives responded and investigated the incident further. As a result, Penton was charged with one count of aggravated burglary and one count of attempted murder. Detectives are still investigating in order to determine the reason for Penton entering Blake’s trailer and viciously attacking him.

Bakes is in stable condition at this time at a local hospital. 

Penton was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center. The inmate roster currently reflects that Penton was booked on two counts of Contempt of Court (with no bond) and Attempted First Degree Murder (with bond set at $200,000.00).

Obituary

Saralyne Jenkins DeDon

August 15, 1934 - January 29, 2022

Obituary

Barbara Jean Kelly

August 13, 1949 - January 29, 2022

COVID Self-Test Kits in Washington Parish

Washington Parish Government advises that COVID Self-Test Kits are available at the following locations as described below.



Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 28-30, 2022



Kelvin Warren (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $75000.00.

Portia Allen (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $76250.00 bond.

Thomas Minarik (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 (3 counts), Excessive Noise, and Possession of Alcohol by Person Under 21 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Leon Lewis (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $30000.00.

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

Sheryl Schneider (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts), Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kalby Kitzler (Mt. Hermon, La. address) 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.

Laderrick Payne (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Simple Battery, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kelli English (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

Lagarian Bell (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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January 29, 2022

Slidell: Argument Leads to Driver Shooting Passenger

Slidell Police report that two men, driving through Slidell, were involved in a mid-day argument resulting in the driver shooting the passenger in the head. Miraculously, the bullet only grazed the victim’s head causing a moderate, non-life threatening injury.

Around 1:20 PM on Friday (January 28, 2022) afternoon, Slidell Police responded to a report of a shooting at the intersection of Warren St. and Seventh St. When officers arrived, they located a wrecked Infinity sedan, along with a man suffering from a graze wound to the head. The suspect, later identified as 21-year-old, Tre’von Early of New Orleans, fled the scene, but was later apprehended several blocks away. No one else was injured during the incident.

Tre’von Early is being held at the Slidell City Jail with an Attempted Second-Degree Murder charge and will later be transferred to the St. Tammany Parish Jail. The investigation is on-going.

Obituary

William Glen Fortenberry, Sr.

January 24, 1935 - January 27, 2022

Obituary

Timothy Goings

June 1, 1967 - January 27, 2022

Obituary

Lyman Gale Grisham

January 9, 1942 - January 26, 2022

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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January 28, 2022

Sheriff Seal Encourages H.S. Seniors to Apply for Scholarship

Washington Parish Sheriff Randy “Country” Seal has announced the opening of the application process for the 2022 Louisiana Sheriff’s Association Scholarship Program.

The LSA Scholarship Program will award scholarships that provide assistance to worthy Louisiana students in furthering their education and training with resources made available through the Louisiana Sheriff’s Honorary Membership Program. The Honorary Membership Program, of which civilians are members, funds this project as well as other law enforcement initiatives.

A scholarship of a maximum of $500 will be awarded to a graduating high school student in Washington Parish. There are no restrictions on the purposes for which the scholarship may be spent. The scholarship will be awarded as a gift to defray the rising costs of tuition and related expenses in higher education. Stipulations are as follows:

  • The applicants are permanent residents of Louisiana;
  • The scholarship will be utilized in higher education within the state of Louisiana. Technical colleges are included;
  • The student is enrolled as a full-time, undergraduate student. Applicants must be eligible for admission to the school indicated on the application.

“An opportunity for a secondary education can change a student’s life,” said Sheriff Seal. “We encourage seniors in Washington Parish high schools to apply for this scholarship because every little bit helps with the cost of tuition.”

Applications can be accessed online at https://www.lsa.org/scholarship.  Completed applications must be submitted to Sheriff Seal’s office by close of business (4:30 pm) on FRIDAY, April 1st, 2022.  Applications may be emailed to Chief Civil Deputy Brent Jones at bjones@wpso.la.gov or may be hand delivered or mailed to the Sheriff’s Office at 1002 Main Street, Franklinton, LA  70438 

The scholarship recipient will be announced on a date to be determined later.

Obituary

James Saxon "Pete" Farmer

January 29, 1948 - January 28, 2022

Three Unrestrained Children Injured in I-59 Crash

On Thursday (January 27, 2022), shortly after 3:30 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single-vehicle crash on I-59 north of Pearl River in St. Tammany Parish. The crash resulted in five injuries. Two adults suffered serious to moderate injuries and three children sustained moderate injuries. 

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as a 2000 Chevrolet S-10 was southbound on I-59. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet exited the roadway to the right and impacted a large tree. 

The driver was properly restrained and sustained moderate injuries. The front seat passenger was properly restrained and sustained serious injuries. There were three unrestrained children under the age of 10 in the vehicle, all of whom sustained moderate injuries. All five occupants were transported to area hospitals. Impairment is not suspected and this crash remains under investigation.

Every occupant in a motor vehicle is required by Louisiana law to be properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. It is a proven fact that car seats and booster seats save lives and prevent injuries. Child safety seats offer the best protection for children in the event of a crash. However, approximately 3 out of 4 car seats are not used correctly. This misuse rate can be attributed to the wide variety of car seats available, the range of children’s weights and heights, and the vast array of vehicles in today’s market. 

Troop L is a nationally recognized Child Seat Fitting Station. Certified car seat technicians are available every Tuesday from 2:00 PM to 5:00 PM at 2600 North Causeway Blvd. in Mandeville, no appointment needed. If you have questions about your child’s seat or just want to make sure your seat is installed correctly, please visit Troop L.

Investigation Continues Into Homicide of James "Junior" Muse of Roseland

01/29/2022 UPDATE- The 2010 GMC Acadia has been located. The 2018 Dodge Ram 3500 Dual Wheel Truck is still being searched for. 

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office Detectives continue the homicide investigation of 24-year-old James "Junior" Muse of Roseland. Muse was found January 24, 2022 outside of an unoccupied structure fire on Richardson Road and has been determined to have succumbed to injuries not related to the fire.

Detectives have determined two suspect vehicles which may have been involved in the Muse homicide. The owners of the vehicles had reported them to be stolen days prior to the homicide.

The 2010 GMC Acadia pictured here is only for color, make, and model reference. The missing vehicle has three center caps on the tires, missing both side mirrors, and a broken rear window.

The 2018 Dodge Ram 3500 Dual Wheel Truck is the actual vehicle missing. The Ram is equipped with an external silver gas tank in the rear of the truck, aftermarket Fuel wheels, black running board with steps, and tow mirrors on both sides.









Chief Jimmy Travis asks if you have any information on the whereabouts of these two vehicles or information on the homicide/thefts to please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips.

All Suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Obituary

Inetta Faye Brumfield

October 22, 1956 - January 19, 2022

Traffic Stop Results in Two Arrested / 1.7# of Meth and 1/2# of Cocaine Found

Kelvin Coshune Warren, age 29 and  a resident of Pearlie Causey Road, and Portia N. Allen, age 33 and a resident of 20th Avenue in Franklinton, were arrested today (January 28, 2022) on Highway 430 after being found in possession cocaine and methamphetamine.

After a traffic stop and search of Allen’s vehicle, officers discovered 1.7 pounds of methamphetamine and almost a half-pound of cocaine stored inside a plastic bag concealed in a handbag on the passenger side floor board. 

Warren was booked into the jail on two counts of possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute plus a failure to appear in court warrant and a warrant from Drug Court. Records indicate Warren has been in the Washington Parish Jail on six previous occasions since 2010 on charges of driving while intoxicated (2 counts), possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute, failure to appear in court (6 counts), driving with suspended license due to a previous DWI, and resisting an officer by flight on foot.

Allen was booked into the jail two counts of possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute and a traffic offense in addition to an outstanding warrant for a contempt of court. There is no record of previous arrests for Allen.

“Wow! That’s a lot of dope,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “And why are illegal drugs referred to as dope? I think we all know the answer to that. I am so pleased with the proactive work of our officers in locating the illegal methamphetamine and cocaine and removing it from our community.”

Franklinton Woman Accused of Attack on Elderly Man and Corrections Deputy

Shanda Crain, age 50 and a resident of Main Street in Franklinton, was arrested and jailed Thursday (January 27, 2022) on charges of cruelty to the infirmed and battery of a corrections deputy.

When a deputy responded to a complaint on Highway 438, he encountered an elderly man who was bleeding from wounds inflicted by an intoxicated Crain. The man, who is receiving daily outpatient medical care, was injured during the physical attack, including a bite wound. Northshore EMS responded to the scene and treated him before a relative transported him to the hospital.

A citizen who responded to the scene advised the deputy of the possible location of Crain. The officer and his Lieutenant then traveled to the location on Sidney Kemp Road and discovered an intoxicated Crain inside a camper trailer. A cursing Crain was placed under arrest, handcuffed and transported to the Washington Parish Jail.

While being booked into the jail, Crain physically assaulted a corrections deputy, adding another charge to her arrest. She was then booked on the two charges.

“People often do foolish things when under the influence of alcohol,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “The consumption of too much alcohol is no excuse, however, since it is the individual who makes the choice to take the first and then subsequent drinks. Crain will now have the privilege of explaining her reckless behavior to a 22nd Judicial District Court judge.”

Obituary

Douglas Thomas

March 10, 1935 - January 27, 2022

Obituary

Willie "Ray" Taylor

March 16, 1931 - January 23, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 25-27, 2022



Kyle Ballard (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Brad Wright (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Carrying a Concealed Weapon, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present (2 counts), and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $6000.00 bond.

Timothy Holden (Varnado, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Cody Morris (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Distribution of Schedule II CDS, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $210000.00.

Patrick Spencer (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Parole Violation, Probation and Parole Hold, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts) by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Derlon Crain (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Shanda Crain (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to Infirm and Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee 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)

January 27, 2022

Invitation: Public meeting of the Washington Parish Watermelon, Fruit & Vegetable Association

You are invited to an organizational and festival planning meeting of the newly formed Washington Parish Watermelon, Fruit & Vegetable Association. 

The meeting will be held at 6:00 PM on February 1, 2022 (Tuesday) at Franklinton Town Hall. 

Masks are required in Town Hall 

For more information, please call 985-732-4755 or 985-516-3665

Altercation at Slidell Bar Leads to Drive-By Shooting

Matthew X. Wilcox, age 28 and of Hammond, is facing serious charges after escalating from a minor altercation at a Slidell bar, to committing a drive-by shooting.

Shortly before 1:00am Wednesday (January 26, 2022) morning, Slidell Police responded to the area of Carey St. and Cousin St. in reference to a report of several gun shots. When officers arrived, they were told a man, later identified as Wilcox, a convicted felon, had committed a drive-by shooting and fled the area in a white Dodge pickup truck.

An alert Slidell Police officer spotted the vehicle on Old Spanish Trail and conducted a traffic stop. Wilcox surrendered without incident. Officers located a firearm inside of Wilcox’s vehicle, as well as spent shell casings.

Earlier in the evening, it was discovered that Wilcox was involved in an altercation at a bar, located near the location of the shooting at Carey St. and Cousin St., and was asked to leave. Wilcox returned a short time later and fired several rounds at people standing near the street corner. Luckily, no one was injured.

Wilcox was arrested and charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm. Warrants are pending for several additional counts of Attempted First Degree Murder. Wilcox is currently being held at the Slidell City Jail and will later be transported to the St. Tammany Parish Jail.

Obituary

Johnny Ray Barber

January 5, 1945 - January 26, 2022

Obituary

Judy Diane Varnado Mulina

September 14, 1950 - January 26, 2022

Franklinton Man Jailed for Mailbox Theft - & More

Wednesday (January 26, 2022), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to Old Columbia Road north of Franklinton in reference to reports of a male looking inside residential mailboxes. When deputies arrived on the scene, they discovered Brad Joseph Wright, Jr., age 34, checking the inside of a mailbox that did not belong to him.

While deputies detained Wright at the scene, they discovered he was in possession of two packages which were not addressed to him, a fully loaded .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, an additional fully loaded magazine for his pistol and a quantity of cocaine and marijuana. Wright was placed under arrest and transported to the Washington Parish Jail. The packages in his possession were returned to the proper mailbox.

Wright was booked into the jail on charges of carrying a concealed weapon, possession of illegal drugs and possession of illegal drugs with a weapon present. His bond was set at $6,000.

Wright has three previous stays in the Washington Parish Jail. In 2011 he was charged with battery. In 2012 he was arrested on a theft charge. A second theft charge followed in 2014.

“This is a good lesson for rural residents,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “If you are expecting a package or anything else of value to arrive in the mail, keep a close watch on your mailbox and remove items as soon as possible. Neighbors, keep an eye out for each other. If you see a suspicious person around your mailbox or anywhere else in your neighborhood, call us. We will respond just as we did in this situation. While the situation with Wright might seem passive, it could easily have escalated if he had chosen to retrieve his weapon. Our deputies must always be on alert for the unexpected.”

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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January 26, 2022

Obituary

Avie Jenkins Riles

June 16, 1934 - January 25, 2022

Bogalusa Taxes on April Ballot Are Renewals/No Increases

Resolutions were approved by the Bogalusa City Council on January 18, 2022 to place two tax measures on the April 30, 2022 ballot. Both measures are for essential services to residents of the City and represent no increase to taxpayers.

The first is a 1/4% sales tax  for “constructing, acquiring, improving, extending, maintaining and operating sewers and sewage treatment and disposal facilities”. The tax was first approved in 1997 and is a renewal and not an increase. (See the video at 7:40)

The second is a 5 mil property tax for the purposes of paying for garbage disposal. The tax is essentially a renewal and will not be an increase for taxpayers  The 5 mil property tax previously paid for garbage disposal when the City was an owner of the Landfill. The City is no longer an owner of the Landfill and the proposed 5 mil property tax will pay for collection of garbage and landfill disposal tipping fees. A similar proposal was defeated by voters on November 13, 2021 by a margin of 59% to 41% (with a 16.4% voter turnout). That proposal was also intended to pay for garbage disposal but provided that any additional funds would go to the General Fund, something that voters apparently opposed and recognized by the Council. As proposed for the April 30th ballot, any additional funds would be retained in the account earmarked for garbage collection and disposal and to provide for future cost increases. (See the video at 11:35)

In other business, the Council

  • approved a resolution to retain Robert A. Neilson, CPA to provide accounting services
  • approved a resolution related to the purchase of a dump truck
  • introduced two ordinances related to “Emergency Drainage and Sewer Improvements”: one on Military Road and one on Jefferson Davis Street. A Public Hearing and vote on the ordinances will be held on February 1, 2022
  • heard a complaint from Evelyn Brumfield and Sammy Krenshaw regarding a drainage problem

Unidentified Driver Killed on I-55 Near Amite

Tuesday morning, shortly after 5:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two-vehicle fatal crash on I-55 south of LA Hwy 16 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of an unidentified male.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as a 2008 Toyota Scion was northbound on I-55. At the same time, a 2007 Peterbilt Car Hauler was northbound on I-55 in front of the Toyota. For reasons still under investigation, the Toyota impacted the rear of the Peterbilt. After initial impact, the Toyota exited the roadway to the right. After leaving the roadway, the Toyota impacted a tree.

The driver of the Toyota was unrestrained at the time of the crash and sustained fatal injuries. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. The driver of the Peterbilt was properly restrained and was not injured. The driver of the Peterbilt was not suspected of being impaired and provided a voluntary breath sample that showed no alcohol detected. 

This crash remains under investigation.

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)

January 25, 2022

Obituary

Judith "Judy" Jenkins Duncan

September 28, 1951 - January 24, 2022

Roseland Man Found Deceased at Fire Scene / Suspected Homicide

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office Chief Jimmy Travis has advised that on Monday (January 24, 2022), Fire District 1 of Amite responded to a structure fire on Richardson Road. The body of a male was found after arrival outside of the unoccupied structure.

TPSO was notified and responded to the scene. Detectives were able to identify the victim as 24-year-old James Muse of Roseland. This is currently being worked as a homicide investigation.

Chief Jimmy Travis asks if you have any information on this incident to please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips.

Obituary

Tommy Sorrell

July 9, 1938 - January 24, 2022

Obituary

Flora Jo Beeson

January 17, 1930 - January 23, 2022

Obituary

Michael Leonard Mayfield

December 18, 1963 - January 23, 2022

Obituary

Donald Wayne Knight, Sr.

May 14, 1939 - January 24, 2022

Obituary

Tammy Lynn Richardson

March 6, 1958 - January 22, 2022

Obituary

Corey O'Neil Taylor

January 15, 1979 - January 17, 2022

Too Much Alcohol Results in 8th Trip to WP Jail

On Monday (January 24, 2022), a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to C. Corkern Road to answer a complaint about a male subject standing in the middle of the road and not allowing vehicles to pass. When the deputy arrived, he made contact with Christopher Gene Schilling, age 39 and who gives a current address in Brookhaven, Mississippi.

Schilling’s sober girlfriend also was on the scene and the officer offered Schilling the opportunity to ride home with her. Schilling refused the offer and then physically resisted the officer. After gaining control of Schilling, the officer handcuffed him and transported him to the Washington Parish Jail. At the jail, Schilling physically resisted corrections deputies as they removed him from the deputy’s vehicle. Once corrections deputies took control of Schilling, he was booked on charges of disturbing the peace, obstructing a highway, two counts of resisting arrest and contempt of court. 

Schilling has seven previous stays in the Washington Parish Jail since 2009 on charges of altering a prescription for a controlled dangerous substance (2 counts), failure to appear (5 counts), driving while intoxicated, disturbing the peace (2 counts), domestic abuse with child endangerment, home invasion, criminal trespassing, criminal damage to property, resisting a police officer with force or violence and battery on a peace officer.

“It doesn’t take a psychiatrist to recognize that this young man obviously has an alcohol problem,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Let’s hope he will find a treatment resource and get his life straightened out.”

Washington Parish Council Meeting: Final Entergy Report, State Park Trails Issue, & Polling Places

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (January 24, 2022) evening and 

  • received the final report from Entergy on noise abatement at their plant outside of Bogalusa
  • approved an ordinance adding Palestine Church Roa to the “No Thru Truck Routes”
  • introduced two ordinances: one to amend the permit fee for telecommunications towers and one to amend the WPG Employees' Handbook concerning premium pay
  • approved two resolutions: one to authorize the signing of the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for the audit of WPG for the year ended December 31, 2021 and one to make permanent the changing of certain polling places. See http://www.washingtonparishalerts.org/files/135006346.pdf
  • postponed action on a resolution to enter into a contract with Flowmotion Trail Builders, LLC for additional mountain bike trails at the Bogue Chitto State Park

Entergy representative Patrick Hamby provided a final report (beginning at 2:00 into video of the meeting) on noise level mitigation efforts at their power plant outside of Bogalusa City limits. Hamby reported that the noise level has been reduced to around 45 decibels. The noise issue was first raised at an October, 2020 meeting of the Council. Complaints from residents near the plant were of noise levels in excess of 70 decibels. At the time, Calpine was the owner/operator of the plant and Entergy later took ownership of the plant. Aggressive action was requested and the Entergy representative committed to investigating and cooperating with the Council and residents to resolve problem. Entergy proceeded to investigate, made substantial investment in needed equipment, installed the equipment, and provided regular progress reports to the Council. The Council complimented Entergy on their efforts and indicated they were satisfied. Hamby thanked the Council and reiterated that Entergy is a “community partner” with Bogalusa and the Parish of Washington. Click here for previous related stories

Beginning at 8:00 into video of the meeting, the resolution to enter into a contract with Flowmotion Trail Builders, LLC for additional mountain bike trails at the Bogue Chitto State Park was considered and, ultimately, Council action on the resolution was postponed. At issue was conflicts with the mountain bike trails and horseback riding trails. Several persons who use the horseback riding trails spoke, with concerns of safety being prominent. The Council repeatedly advised that activities at the State Park is governed by the State – not the Council and that the Council encourages all to enjoy the State Park. The resolution before the Council was only to consider a $25,000 funding request. The Council postponed action to encourage a resolution of the conflict. 

Administrative reports were provided beginning at 35:00 into video of the meeting

Public Works Director provided COVID statistics with regard to positivity rate (declining), confirmed cases, deaths (one), vaccination rates, and encouraged all to be vaccinated. Wheat also provided information on parish bridges and expected substantial funding to repair/replace bridges.

Finance Director Donna Graham announced purchases to be made soon of needed equipment.

Donnell Merritt reported on work done by public work crews and described equipment obtained by Parish Government over the years to better serve the Parish. 

WP Council 01242022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 23-24, 2022










Benjamin Jacob (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $1500.00 bond.

Brandon Watts (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Illegal Discharge/Use of Weapon and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $8500.00 bond.

Shaun Hobgood (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Off-Road Vehicles Prohibited on Hwy, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd Offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Christopher Schilling (Brookhaven, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Obstructing Public Passage(s), Resisting Arrest (2 counts), and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Cleotha Martin (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Resisting an Officer, Resisting Arrest, Obstruction of Justice, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (3 counts), Driving Under Suspension, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (2 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (8 counts), Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule V Drugs, Possession of Contraband in a Correctional Facility (2 counts), an Probation an Parole Hold by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $305,000.00.

Bobby Starkey (Tickfaw, La. address) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Justin Taylor (Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Joshua Abelseth (Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Obituary

Donald Christopher "Chris" Mitchell

May 27, 1968 - January 22, 2022

Obituary

James Allen Hartfield

March 31, 1978 - January 24, 2022

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

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

January 24, 2022

Gov. Edwards Budget Priorities for Next Fiscal Year

Today (January 24, 2022), Gov. John Bel Edwards highlighted his budget priorities for the next fiscal year, which include significant new, recurring investments in education at every level, including at least a $1500 pay raise for teachers and monumental new investments in infrastructure across Louisiana.

“This is a budget I am proud of, this is a budget the Louisiana people can be proud of, and this is a budget I believe the Legislature can proudly support,” Gov. Edwards said.

Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne will formally present the budget to the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

Click here to read the full press release

Inmate Death Reported at St. Tammany Parish Jail

On Sunday (January 23, 2022), a St. Tammany Parish Jail inmate was transported to a local area hospital, after suffering from an unknown medical condition. The inmate was pronounced deceased after being treated at the local area hospital.

Deputies observed the inmate, identified as 52-year-old Marcus Morris, to be in need of medical attention. Deputies and medical staff responded to the dorm, where Morris was located, and rendered first aid. Acadian ambulance responded and transported Morris to the local area hospital where medical personnel continued to provide medical treatment. Morris was pronounced deceased by the hospital staff.

The death is under investigation and pending the results of an autopsy by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office. Further updates will be provided when more information is obtained.

Obituary

Melvin Remington

January 21, 1927 - January 22, 2022

Obituary

Barry Seal

January 19, 1952 - January 21, 2022

Obituary

Margie Ann Miller Stewart

October 1, 1939 - January 20, 2022

Obituary

Margarette Duke Galley

April 6, 1947 - January 21, 2022

Woman Dies Following Franklinton Mobile Home Fire

State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies continue investigating the circumstances surrounding a mobile home fire in Franklinton that claimed the life of a disabled woman. 

Just before 5:15 a.m. on Sunday, January 23, 2022, the Franklinton Fire Department responded to a report of a residential fire located in the 45000 block of Jamieson Creek Road. Firefighters were informed there was a woman inside who was unable to escape due to a disability. Tragically, the victim died before she could be rescued. While official identification and cause of death are pending with the coroner’s office, the victim is believed to be the 51-year-old homeowner.

Following an assessment of the scene, deputies determined the fire began in the bedroom where the victim was located. While the official cause of this fire remains undetermined at this time, SFM investigators are unable to rule out the possibility of an electrical malfunction due to improper and/or aged wiring.

In addition, deputies confirmed the mobile home did not have working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are a proven tool to alert residents to a fire danger in order to escape safely, even in a mobile home. If you need assistance obtaining smoke alarms for your home, Operations Save-A-Life can help. The program partners with local fire departments to install smoke alarms for free. To learn more about Operation Save-A-Life, visit our website at lasfm.org.

Obituary

Shakerian Tremaine "Trey" Allen

August 13, 1993 - January 18, 2022

Obituary

Betty Ann Robinson

September 16, 1952 - January 11, 2022

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January 23, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 20-22, 2022


John Thierry (Orlando, Fl. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Aggravated Flight from an Officer (2 counts), Improper Lane Usage, and Ran Stop Sign by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $7500.00 bond.

Kristien Copeland (Bush, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Shae Lacey (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Cruelty to a Juvenile(s), and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bon set at $1654.00.

Cathy Knight (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Distribution of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $75000.00.

Obituary

Betty Lynn Byrd Adams

August 17, 1934 - January 22, 2022

Obituary

Lloyd Timothy Thomas

August 29, 1937 - January 21, 2022

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January 22, 2022

Bicyclist from Angie Killed in Crash

Shortly before 7:00 p.m. on January 21, 2022, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist on LA Hwy 21 south of LA Hwy 436 in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 70-year-old Barry Seal of Angie.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Seal was traveling south on LA Hwy 21 on his bicycle. At the same time, a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse was traveling south on LA Hwy 21 behind Seal. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet struck the rear of the bicycle. 

Seal sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. All occupants in the Chevrolet were properly restrained and were not injured. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from the driver and Seal for analysis.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind bicyclists to never assume that a motorist can see you. Simple precautions such as wearing an approved bicycle helmet, reflective materials, and avoiding distractions are key to preventing crashes and avoiding injuries. Louisiana law requires bicyclists to remain as close to the right of side of the roadway as practicable and obey all traffic laws.

Obituary

Cicero Josuke Holmes

October 20, 2021 - January 19, 2022

Obituary

Donna Brooks

November 16, 1957 - January 20, 2022

Obituary

Ricky Roach

March 29, 1955 - January 21, 2022

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January 20, 2022

Bogalusa Police Arrests 2 / Seize Drug and Cash

In January, 2022, the Bogalusa Police Department Violent Crimes Task Force began an investigation into illegal drug distribution by Cleon Lotts, from a residence in the 1100 block of East 7th Street in Bogalusa. After receiving information that Lotts was in Possession of a large quantity of illegal narcotics, a search warrant for his residence was obtained. On January 18, 2022, Task Force Officers, Detectives, and Criminal Patrol Officers executed the search warrant.

Officers located Cleon Lotts and Kimberly Owens inside the residence, and both were detained while a search was conducted. Lotts was emerging from the bathroom when officers entered the residence, and there was evidence that he flushed an amount of
crack cocaine. But the search of the entire residence revealed a variety of illegal narcotics throughout. 

The following illegal narcotics were seized: An amount of heroin, methamphetamine, crack cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA), three different types of Scheduled Narcotics, and over five pounds of marijuana. Additionally, $6,333 in U.S. Currency, suspected proceeds from the sale of illegal narcotics, was seized.

Cleon Lotts was charged with the following: Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute MDMA, 3 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule III Narcotics, 2 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Narcotics, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in a Drug Free Zone, Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses, Obstruction of Justice – Felony, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Kimberly Owens was charged with Possession of Heroin and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

This is Lotts' ninth arrest by the Bogalusa Police Department. He is a convicted felon and has prior narcotics history. Lotts was booked into the Bogalusa City Jail and transferred to the Washington Parish Jail. The case will be forwarded to District Attorney Warren Montgomery’s office for prosecution.

Obituary

Sherry Traywick Hyde

November 03, 1960 - January 17, 2022

Obituary

Paulette Ann Prejeant Hymel

January 12, 1949 - January 19, 2022

Obituary

Kristina Marie Moak Stone

April 23, 1981 - January 17, 2022

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Vehicle Crashes During High-Speed Chase on Hwy. 25

Wednesday (January 19, 2021) afternoon, two Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies traveled to the intersection of Highway 25 north and Highway 38 in reference to reports of an unresponsive driver behind the wheel of a vehicle with the engine running. Once there, the deputies encountered a male in the driver’s seat who appeared to be asleep or passed out. After several attempts, the officers were able to arouse the man who appeared to be very confused.

The driver produced a Florida driver’s license identifying him as John Carl Brian Thierry, a resident of Orlando. He was instructed to exit the vehicle, at which time he sped off heading west on
Highway 38. With deputies in pursuit, he made a sudden stop and 
U-turn, heading east on Highway 38. At the intersection with Highway 25, he failed to stop and turned south on Highway 25 reaching speeds of 90 miles per hour and forcing other vehicles off of the roadway. As the pursuing officer closed in on him, Thierry slammed on brakes and made another U-turn heading north on Highway 25. He then made yet another sudden U-turn, heading south again. By this time, other Sheriff’s Office deputies had responded and were in the vicinity.

Suddenly, while traveling south, Thierry crossed the northbound lane onto the shoulder and struck a culvert before his vehicle went airborne and came to rest in the yard of a residence. Thierry was removed from the vehicle and handcuffed.

Northshore EMS, responded to the scene and medically evaluated and treated Thierry. Ambulance personnel then transported him to a hospital in St. Tammany Parish for further treatment.

Thierry’s vehicle was inventoried by deputies on the scene. Three firearms and more than six hundred dollars in loose bills scattered throughout the vehicle were recovered and placed in evidence for safekeeping.

A warrant for Thierry’s arrest was obtained through a 22nd Judicial District Court Judge. Upon Thierry’s release from the hospital, he will be arrested and jailed on charges of aggravated flight from an officer, resisting an officer, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, traveling at an unsafe speed and other traffic offenses. Bond will be set by the Magistrate Judge.

“What a blessing that no officers or other motorists were injured during Mr. Thierry’s episode of senseless behavior,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “What was he doing in Washington Parish? Why was he asleep at the wheel? Why did he flee? These are questions that, hopefully, can be answered one day as he stands before a judge. His behavior certainly jeopardized the safety of numerous persons and he must be held accountable.”