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March 31, 2022

Obituary

Joseph Ladner

December 16, 1964 - March 25, 2022

Obituary

Essie Merle Stringer

August 3, 1934 - March 24, 2022

Two Die in Home Fires in Tangipahoa Parish

State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies are continuing their investigations into two fires that occurred this week that claimed the lives of a Hammond man and a Kentwood man.

On the evening of Tuesday, March 29, 2022, the Hammond Fire Department responded to a report of a house fire located in the 43000 block of Lowes Lane. Firefighters discovered a male victim inside who was transported to a local hospital for his injuries. Unfortunately, the victim, a 65-year-old man, died the next day. Following an assessment of the scene and collecting witness statements, deputies have determined the fire began in a bedroom. At this time, the cause of the fire remains undetermined as deputies are unable to rule out an electrical malfunction possibly related to older wiring in the home.

On the morning of March 30, 2022, the Kentwood Fire Department responded to the 19000 block of Highway 1055 for a report of a mobile home fire. Firefighters unfortunately located the body of the lone 60-year-old, disabled occupant in a hallway near the back door. Following an assessment of the scene, deputies have determined the fire began in the living room of the home. At this time, the cause of the fire is undetermined with the inability to rule out an unidentified electrical malfunction.

Lastly, neither of these homes had 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

Washington Parish Library Announces Fine Amnesty Program in Time for National Library Week

Washington Parish Library Director Sonnet Ireland announces that, starting Friday, April 1, 2022, the Washington Parish Library is kicking off a six-month Fine Amnesty Pilot Program. Through Saturday, October 1, 2022, library users will be forgiven of all previous overdue fines for library books, DVDs, CDs, and magazines. We welcome library users to return any materials that have been long overdue. In exchange, replacement costs and fees for these items will be waived. For library users who have lost library materials and have no hope of returning them to the library, all four branches of the Washington Parish Library will be accepting nonperishable food items for our Food For Fines program. Each nonperishable food item brought to a branch can eliminate up to $3 in library fines/replacement costs.

The Washington Parish Library also encourages all community members to visit their library in person or online to explore and access services and programs. We welcome library users–new and old–to our branches and are offering free replacement library cards for any users who need one.

The Washington Parish Library offers a wide array of programs, classes and resources that are available in person or from the comfort of home, including our popular ebook resource CloudLibrary. Washington Parish Library also offers technology that patrons can borrow, such as hotspots and laptops, as well as wifi and small community collection at Rawl’s Pharmacy in Mt. Hermon.

April 3-9, 2022 is National Library Week, a time to highlight the essential role libraries, librarians and library workers play in transforming lives and strengthening communities. The theme for this year’s National Library Week is “Connect with Your Library,” which promotes the idea that libraries are places to get connected to technology by using broadband, computers and other resources. Most importantly, libraries also connect our communities to each other. This National Library Week, the public can show their appreciation and support for libraries by visiting their library in person or online, following them on social media and using the hashtag #NationalLibraryWeek. First sponsored in 1958, National Library Week is a national observance sponsored by the American Library Association and libraries of all types across the country each April. For more information, visit the library’s website at https://washingtonparishlibrary.info/.

Ponchatoula Registered Sex Offender Indicted for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today (March 31, 2022) that Jacob Wiebelt, age 39 and of Ponchatoula, was charged on March 28, 2022 in a one-count bill of information for Possession of Materials Involving the Sexual Exploitation of Children. Wiebelt, if convicted, faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years and a maximum sentence of up to twenty (20) years imprisonment and/or a fine. In addition, Wiebelt faces a term of supervised release of no less than five (5) years and up to life after his release from prison. 

According to documents filed in federal court, Wiebelt was convicted in 2011 for Receipt of Child Pornography and sentenced to five (5) years in federal prison. He was on supervised release when he committed this new offense.

According to documents filed in federal court, the case against Wiebelt developed as a result of a lead to the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation that a user uploaded child sexual abuse material to the Discord messenger service. Specifically, the lead reflected that the user uploaded sexually explicit videos of children who were prepubescent in age.    

U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the bill of information is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Obituary

Harold Thomas Gunther, Sr.

May 04, 1938 - March 30, 2022

Washington Parish Man Jailed on Illegal Drugs and Traffic Offenses

On Wednesday (March 30, 2022), a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputy responded to a report of a vehicle being driven in a reckless manner. He was able to locate and stop the vehicle as it approached the intersection of Washington and Main in Franklinton.

The driver, James Dutruch, age 39 and a resident of Otis Jenkins Road, was found to be in possession of three types of illegal drugs. He was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on two counts of possession of illegal drugs, possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute, having no driver’s license and a traffic offense. His bond was set at $10,000.

Dutruch has a previous arrest in 2020. At that time he was charged with driving while intoxicated, possession of illegal drugs and careless operation of a motor vehicle.

“An impaired driver has no business behind the wheel,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I am grateful to the concerned citizen who reported him and to our deputy who was able to take him from behind the wheel.”

Lacombe Man Pleads Guilty to Rape of 13 Year-Old, Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Cedric Cortez McClendon, age 22 and from Lacombe, pleaded guilty on Tuesday (March 29, 2022) to second degree rape and aggravated battery after his trial was already underway. District Judge William H. Burris sentenced McClendon to 20 years for the Second-Degree Rape and 10 years on the Aggravated Battery, the sentences to be served concurrently and without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

On February 19, 2018, Slidell Police were dispatched to a home in Slidell, in reference to a reported simple battery. Upon arrival, the 13-year-old victim told officers that earlier that day she was walking towards the home of a friend, when McClendon, then 18 years old, started shouting "come here" repeatedly to her. Although she tried to avoid him, he grabbed her by the arm and struck her in the face and upper body. She was able to escape him and called the police. Officers interviewed the victim’s father who reported that he had been told by a friend that they’d seen the victim and McClendon inside of an abandoned house in the neighborhood on several occasions. Officers went to that location and found condom wrappers and used condoms. 

During a victim interview, the victim admitted that she’d not been completely forthcoming with her father. She told officers that McClendon had beat her with a piece of wood on one occasion and that there were multiple occasions when he beat her and forced her to have sex. She also stated that he’d threaten to kill himself if she wouldn’t cooperate. McClendon was taken into custody and in his interview, admitted to having sex with the underaged victim on numerous occasions and to a physical altercation. He stated, “When I get mad, bro, she gets scared and she f***s me. That's not my fault." The defendant, after sitting through jury selection, took a plea that was double the prison time he’d been offered prior to the trial date.

The victim agreed to the plea agreement. She read her impact statement to the Court and directed to the defendant, “I would like to be able to forgive you…but I can’t because you are evil.” Assistant District Attorneys Tiffany Dover and Iain Dover prosecuted the case and they thanked the victim for her patience and bravery.

“We want to thank the Slidell Police department and particularly Detectives O’Shaughnessy and McNulty for their investigative work and help to bring this case to a resolution for the young victim,” said D.A. Montgomery.

Washington Parish Man Arrested in Church Parking Lot

Late Wednesday (March 30, 2022), a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy was patrolling south of Bogalusa when he observed a vehicle parked in the corner of a church parking lot. No other vehicles were in the area and no church activities were being held.

As the deputy approached the vehicle, he observed the driver attempting to place something under the seat. The driver, who appeared to be under the influence of something, was compliant with the deputy’s commands, admitted that heroin was in the vehicle and consented for the officer to conduct a search. During the search, the deputy discovered not only the heroin, but also a syringe. The driver was identified as Hunter Lane Jones, age 26 and a resident of Lee’s Creek Road.  was arrested and transported to the Washington Parish Jail.

Jones was arrested and booked into the Washington Parish Jail on charges of possession of heroin and possession of drug paraphernalia. His bond was set at $5,000. 

Jones has previous arrests in 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2017 for various criminal offenses, including driving while intoxicated, battery, possession of stolen property and violating the terms of his probation.

“It seems obvious Mr. Jones was not headed to Sunday School,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal, “although that would be a good destination for him. Heroin use is a good example of someone who needs help with their lifestyle choices. I suggest he obtain that help.”

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)

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 29-30, 2022








Chester Alsobrooks (Bogalusa, La.) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Hunter Jones (Bogalusa, 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.

Melissa Desoto (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

James Dutruch (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, No Drivers License, Possession of Marijuana, and Ran Red Light by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Undra Carter (Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Daniel Crumedy (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II CDS (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $75000.00.

William Brumfield (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Theft Less Than 1000, and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Jennifer Nelson (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Heroin by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Jamil Clay (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, Resisting an Officer, Possession of Marijuana, Introduction of Contraband into Penal Institute, Possession of Heroin, and Obstruction of Justice by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $10000.00 bond.

March 30, 2022

Covington Police Officer Injured in Head-On Crash

Shortly before midnight last night (March 29, 2022), Officers with the Covington Police Department
attempted to stop a vehicle on Boston Street for speeding. The driver of the vehicle, identified as 25 year-old Nestor Javier Sanchez-Martinez, refused to stop for CPD units, leading officers on a slow-speed pursuit, with speeds reaching 20 to 30 mph. As the chase reached Jefferson and Columbia Streets, Martinez entered the opposing lane of travel and accelerated head-on into a fully marked CPD unit, injuring the officer inside. 










The injured CPD Officer was transported to the St. Tammany Parish Hospital, where he was treated and released for his minor injuries. Martinez was also transported to a local hospital, where he was medically cleared by hospital staff and transported to the St. Tammany Parish Jail to be booked accordingly on the following charges: Attempted First Degree Murder of a Peace Officer,  Aggravated Flight, Reckless Operation, Speeding, Traffic Control Signals, Improper Lane Usage, and Driver Must Be Licensed. More criminal charges are possibly forthcoming, pending the toxicology test results.

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is assisting with the crash investigation.

Obituary

Kristina Alice Cleland

April 17, 1989 - March 15, 2022

Obituary

Helen Lavada Lewis Stewart

January 5, 1936 - March 30, 2022

Severe Weather Level 4 Out of 5 This Evening

The biggest threats remain damaging winds (70+ mph) and embedded tornadoes. The timing still looks to be in the afternoon into the evening hours. In addition, we have a high wind warning for all of southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi from 8AM to 9PM CDT tonight. Sustained winds outside of thunderstorms of 35 to 45 mph are expected with gusts up to 55 mph possible. Winds of this magnitude can cause power outages and damage to trees ahead of severe weather. 



Obituary

Jean Inez Goldman

October 28, 1942 - March 28, 2022

Obituary

Carl Eugene Cutrer

May 14, 1931 - March 27, 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)

March 29, 2022

Timing of Severe Storms Tomorrow

WP Council Meeting of March 28, 2022

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (March 28, 2022) evening and began with Public Hearings, one of which was on the Washington Parish Utility Scale Solar Project Facility Standards Ordinance. As it turned out, the Public Hearing and the majority of the regularly scheduled Council meeting was devoted to complaints and objections to the ordinance and to the approval process for new projects in the parish. Several parish residents and Washington Parish Planning Commission member Wayne Herring spoke. 

The issue of regulating solar panel projects has been a complex and controversial topic at several Council meetings over the past year. The Council's focus has been to be transparent, receive input from all interested parties and prepare a comprehensive ordinance. The Concerned Citizens of Washington Parish have been at the forefront in asking questions and making suggestions. At the meeting on March 14, 2022, the organization's spokesperson expressed support for the resulting ordinance. 

Click here for related story and context

The ordinance had been previously introduced and, following a Public Hearing on March 28, 2022, the Council was to vote. They did. Surprisingly, the ordinance was not approved. Voting to approve the ordinance were Rusty Fornea, Clark Harry, and Joe Culpepper. Voting to not approve were Reginald McMasters, Carley King, Shawn Rice, and Kim Wagner.

The need to regulate solar panel projects remains and on March 29, 2022, Public Notices were published that the Washington Parish Planning Commission and the Washington Parish Council will each have a Special Meeting on March 31, 2022. The Commission will meet at 5:00 PM and the only item on the Agenda is “Discussion of the proposed Utility Scale Solar Project Facilities Ordinance.” Immediately following the Commission meeting, the Council will meet and the only item on the Agenda is “Introduction of Ordinance 22-707 – The Washington Parish Utility Scale Solar Project Facility Standards Ordinance.”

Stay tuned!

Mom & Son Accused of Stealing from Elderly Family Member

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a mother and son who are accused of stealing more than $90,000 from an elderly family  member. In February, 2022 a woman contacted the STPSO to report she suspected an elderly family member was being financially exploited by another family member.

Through their investigation, detectives with the STPSO Financial Crimes Unit discovered that between July 2021 and February 2022, Deborah Ann Sollberger (age 66 and of Picayune, Miss., had spent $91,428.98 of her 88-year-old aunt’s money and had donated her aunt’s vehicle, which was valued at $3,200, to a friend.

On March 18, 2022, a warrant was issued for Sollberger’s arrest for Exploitation of a Person with Infirmities, Money Laundering and Obstruction of Justice. She was located on March 20, 2022 in New Orleans and arrested. She was moved to the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center and released on March 22, 2022 on $15,000 bond.

Further investigation revealed Sollberger’s son, Kevin Lee Dunbar (age 40 and of Lacombe, had signed  onto an account with his mother. That account was opened using funds illegally obtained from the elderly aunt. Additional checks were also paid to Dunbar by Sollberger using money from the elderly aunt’s account. Of the $91,428.98 spent, $40,860 ultimately went to Dunbar. 

On March 24, 2022, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Dunbar for Principal to Exploitation to a Person with Infirmities and Money Laundering. He was arrested and also booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center. He was released on March 25, 2022 on a $10,000 bond.

“I applaud the hard work of our detectives in our Financial Crimes Division, who work difficult cases like this to seek justice for some of our most vulnerable residents – our elderly,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “It is absolutely appalling that someone would take advantage of an elderly family member for their own personal gain.” 

Woman Steals Car an Hour After Being Released From Jail

Sarah Connors, age 27 and a New Jersey resident, is facing more charges after she stole a car less than an hour after being released from the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center. Connors had been  released at approximately 3:45 p.m. Monday (March 28, 22) on a signature bond after she was booked by Mandeville Police on misdemeanor theft and drug charges.

Then at approximately 4:45 p.m. Monday (March 28, 2022), the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was contacted in reference to a red Chevy Camaro, which had been stolen after it was left running outside a fast food restaurant near the intersection of US Highway 190 and Louisiana Highway 25 in Covington.

Deputies located the Camaro headed southbound on U.S. 190 near Holiday Boulevard and gave chase. The vehicle continued southbound, sideswiping another car before deputies located it crashed off the Fairway Drive exit. The driver, you guessed it, was Sarah Connors who sustained serious injuries in the crash and was transported by emergency medical personnel to a local area hospital, where she remains.

The case is still under investigation, and charges are pending.

Obituary

Margaret Stafford Burch

March 16, 1930 - March 28, 2022

Obituary

Kimberly Susan Terrell Hooks

October 11, 1965 - March 23, 2022

Obituary

Frankie Lee Burrell

May 10, 1932 - March 23, 2022

Obituary

Sharonda Danielle Morris-Dillion

May 23, 1976 - March 22, 2022

Town of Franklinton Meeting March 28, 2022 (Video)

More about the meeting will be provided later. In the meantime, we are providing the entire meeting video here.

Highlights include the segment regarding Franklinton Youth Baseball (beginning at 4:30), Frankie Crosby on the recall election (beginning at 49:45), various Agenda items (beginning at 54:10), Departmental Report (beginning at 1:05:10), Public Participation (beginning at 1:27:20), and comments from the Aldermen and Mayor (beginning at 1:41:00).

Obituary

Alice Lena Lotts

July 3, 1940 - March 21, 2022

Obituary

Frenchie Mae Foster

February 25, 1948 - March 21, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 28, 2022






Osric Hines (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II CDS, Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Clinton Prescott (Kentwood, La. address) was booked In From Court

Kameron Harris (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $50000.00.

Obituary

Peggy Sue Cook

April 05, 1954 - March 23, 2022

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)

March 28, 2022

Obituary

Travis Thomas

June 24, 1941 - March 27, 2022

Obituary

Warren Ellis Bateman

December 2, 1953 - March 24, 2022

Covington Mother Arrested in Death of 6-Month-Old

The Covington Police Department has arrested 28-year-old Madelyn Abisai Mejia-Gallo of Covington for causing the death of her 6-month-old child. Madelyn was taken into custody in New Orleans Saturday (March 26, 2022) evening after an arrest warrant was issued for Second Degree Murder. 

The investigation began Wednesday, March 23, 2022, when officers and detectives responded to an area hospital in reference to a juvenile arriving to the Emergency Room with severe head trauma. The juvenile was later transported to another facility with more advanced care. 

Based on evidence collected and statements gathered during the investigation, detectives believe that the injuries to the child occurred at the hands of his mother. 

On Saturday, March 26, 2022, detectives were notified that the child had succumbed to his injuries. Detectives traveled to New Orleans and assisted the New Orleans Police Department with Madelyn’s arrest.

Bogalusa City Schools Announce Early Childhood Registration


Severe Weather Possible Wednesday



Drug Arrest Made in Slidell / 4 Year-Old Present

Shortly after midnight Saturday (March 26, 2022) morning, detectives with the STPSO Narcotics Division’s Proactive Enforcement Unit were conducting extra patrols of the Slidell area hotels and motels when they observed a suspicious vehicle backed into a parking space. The vehicle was occupied by the driver, 37 year-old Corey Mitchell of New Orleans, and his four-year-old child. As they approached the vehicle, detectives observed narcotics in plain view. 

Detectives searched the vehicle and recovered approximately 229.8 grams of suspected MDMA, 3 suspected tablets of LSD, 2.5 tablets of suspected tramadol, approximately 1 gram of suspected THC wax, approximately 5.7 grams of suspected marijuana, a digital scale and multiple empty bags. 

Mitchell was arrested and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for the offenses of Possession with the Intent to distribute Schedule I CDS (MDMA), Possession of Schedule I CDS (LSD), Possession of Schedule IV CDS (Tramadol), Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile, Possession of Schedule I CDS (THC wax), Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule I CDS (Marijuana). Bond was set at $25,000.00.

Mitchell’s young child was released into the custody of his mother.

Pearl River Man Arrested After Slow-Speed Pursuit, Foot Chase, & Fight

Friday (March 25, 2022) evening, detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Narcotics Division’s Proactive Enforcement Unit observed a driver commit several traffic violations while traveling through the Alton area, and they attempted a traffic stop.

The driver, who was later identified as Warren Patterson, age 37 and of Pearl River, led the detectives on a slow-speed pursuit onto Son Moore Road, where he eventually abandoned his vehicle and fled into the wood line. STPSO detectives gave chase into the woods, at which point Patterson was observed removing a firearm from his waistband and discarding it onto the ground in front of him. While detectives were attempting to take him into custody, Patterson continued to be physically resistant and fought the detectives. After a struggle, he was taken into custody and escorted out of the woods. 

During a search of Patterson’s vehicle, detectives located approximately 57.1 grams of suspected cocaine (both powder and crack), a digital scale and $2,158 believed to be the proceeds from narcotics sales. 

Patterson was arrested and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for the offenses of Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of a CDS, Possession with the Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (Cocaine), Resisting with Force or Violence, Proceeds Relevant to a Drug Transaction, Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Obstruction of Justice, Driver Must be Licensed, and Failure to use a Turn Signal (two counts). 

RCC Job Fair is Thursday, March 31st



Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 26-27, 2022



Darrin Causey (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Domestic Abuse Assault and Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Roy Burnthorn (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) and Probation Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

William Mixon (Columbia, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Carlos Morris (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of License Plate Improper Lighting, Driving Under Suspension, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Obituary

Mary "Julia" Jackson Miller

October 21, 1934 - March 25, 2022

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)

March 27, 2022

March 26, 2022

Obituary

Gaetano "Guy" Sam Spitale

September 27, 1925 - March 25, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 24-25, 2022



Devin Knight (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Speeding 21-30 Over Limit, License Plate Light Required, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $10000.00 bond.

Nina Hano (Sun, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

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

Jamichael Spikes (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Daniel Lawrence (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Romerro Morris (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole No bond set at this time.

Ernest Bright (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Joshua Geraldson (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Erica Archuleta (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering 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)

March 25, 2022

Obituary

Bobby Earl "Pete" Smith, Sr.

November 21, 1956 - March 20, 2022

Obituary

Jason Scott Travis 

April 13, 1972 - March 23, 2022

Obituary

Hylton Spillman

November 11, 1939 - March 24, 2022

Obituary

Teresa Brown Simpson

September 19, 1951 - March 24, 2022

Obituary

Cloyce Beall Crain

September 8, 1933 - March 22, 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)

March 24, 2022

Bogue Chitto State Park – A Get Out and Fish Site to be Stocked with Adult Channel Catfish!

Be sure to get out and fish at one of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries’ Get Out and Fish! sites across the state where LDWF will be stocking adult-sized channel catfish. With 17 sites stocked throughout Louisiana, you’ll have a great chance to get in on the spring bite. Sites are scheduled to be stocked the week of March 28. To view the full stocking schedule and find a location near you, visit www.wlf.la.gov/gof

Please remember, all anglers 16 and older must possess a Louisiana fishing license when fishing in any Louisiana public waters. Licenses are available for purchase online at https://louisianaoutdoors.com/licenses-and-permits

Slidell Police Report 80 Arrests in "Operation Clean Sweep"

Over the past three months, the Slidell Police Narcotics Division has made over eighty (80) arrests during a highly proactive operation deemed “Operation Clean Sweep”. The operation has been addressing known drug trafficking areas throughout the city with the primary objective of targeting drug dealers who are dealing heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl.

As a result, narcotics detectives were able to gather intelligence, identify, and apprehend numerous individuals who were involved in illegal drug activity in Slidell. The results currently are 80 total arrests, 12 “high-end” drug dealers, approximately 255 grams of methamphetamine recovered, approximately 100 grams of heroin recovered,  approximately 30 grams of fentanyl recovered, and 3 stolen firearms recovered. 

Identified by Slidell Police as dealers who have been arrested and charged with narcotics-related charges are • Kenyatta Meads, 46-years-old, Slidell, LA, • Dwayne Jones, 39-years-old, Picayune, MS, • Walter Fischer, 48-years-old, Slidell, LA, • Emily Mangipano, 30-years-old, Slidell, LA, • Renee Brockhaus, 49-years-old, Slidell, LA,  • Christopher Hall, 40-years-old, Slidell, LA, • Nicholas Mitchell, 37-years-old, Picayune, MS,  • Stephanie Fasulla, 32-years-old, Picayune, MS,  • Raymond Nealy, 42-years-old, Slidell, LA, • Daniel Adams, 32-years-old, Slidell, LA, • Bruce Wilson, 38-years-old, Slidell, LA, and • Terry Yarbrough, 28-years-old, Pearl River, LA.

MS Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Prison

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on Wednesday, March 23, 2022 Travis Leon Moore, age 39, was sentenced in the United States District Court after pleading guilty to a one count indictment charging him with being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Court Judge Ivan L.R. Lemelle imposed a sentence of 100 months in the federal Bureau of Prisons to be followed by supervised release for a period of 3 years. 

Moore was arrested by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies on March 22, 2018 after they were notified that he had threatened two individuals with a sawed-off shotgun.  The notification stemmed from a domestic dispute that involved Moore’s partner and her family member.  Authorities retrieved the firearm after Moore discarded the weapon out of a window.  After his arrest, Moore admitted that he possessed the firearm. 

He was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm (2 counts), Obstruction of Justice, Careless Operation, Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of Firearm With Obliterated Serial Number, Possession or Dealing in Unregistered or Illegally Transferred Weapons, and Attempted Second Degree Murder.

U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.

WPSO Arrests Speeding Driver With Illegal Drugs

A few minutes before midnight last night (March 24, 2022), a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol deputy observed a truck traveling northbound on Highway 424 at 80 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone. The driver, Devin Lee Knight, age 28 and a resident of Lawrence Creek Road, was found to be in possession of an open and partially consumed beer and a quantity of illegal drugs.

Knight was arrested and booked into the Washington Parish Jail on charges of possession of illegal drugs with intent to distribute, speeding 21-30 mph above the speed limit, having an open container of alcohol in his vehicle and other traffic offenses. His bond was set at $10,000.

Knight has one previous stay in the Washington Parish Jail. In January 2018, he was jailed on charges of driving while intoxicated and traffic offenses.

“Drinking while driving is not only a violation of the law, but is an affront to every innocent motorist on the road,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Matters are made worse when a drinking driver also introduces illegal drugs into the mix. This arrest is a stark reminder that our deputies are on patrol twenty-four hours per day and are always on the alert for any type of criminal activity, including traffic offenses.”

Convicted Felon Jailed in Slidell – He had Stolen Vehicle, Gun, Narcotics

Around 4:00pm Tuesday (March 22, 2022) afternoon, a Slidell Police officer stopped a Cadillac CTS for speeding on Old Spanish Trail. During the traffic stop, the officer discovered the vehicle to be stolen. Located inside of the vehicle was a large amount of marijuana, cash, and an AR-15 rifle. The driver of the stolen Cadillac was 22-year-old Don Robiho of New Orleans and it was determined that Robiho is a convicted felon. 









Robiho has been arrested in Orleans Parish three times for Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, twice for Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Illegal Carrying of a Weapon, Resisting an Officer, in addition to numerous other charges.

Robiho was taken into custody and charged with Possession of a Stolen Vehicle, Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Possession of Marijuana, Possession with the Intent to Distribute Narcotics, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Speeding, and No Driver’s License. 

Slidell Police Chief Randy Fandal says, “Our officers being proactive is one of the many reasons we have a safe community and a low crime rate. We will never know what potential crime we stopped by putting this man in jail but I can tell you this ...our community is a lot safer now that he is off our streets.”

The investigation is on-going and Robiho could face additional charges. Robiho was booked into the Slidell City Jail and transferred to the St. Tammany Parish Jail where bond was set at $100,000.00.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 23, 2022






Shelton Adams (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kennith Pierce (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to Infirm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kerrie Pierce (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

David Avery (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted First Degree Murder and Failure to Appear (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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March 23, 2022

Obituary

Elouise Schilling Blazo

September 04, 1925 - March 22, 2022

Obituary

Betty A.V. Seals

December 27, 1939 - March 23, 2022

Intoxicated Driver Arrested on Highway 10

On March 21, just before midnight, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies arrested Randy Trotter, age 55 and a resident of Graceland Drive. Trotter was sitting behind the wheel of his truck eastbound on the shoulder of Highway 10 near the intersection with Highway 439. Trotter, who was asleep when deputies arrived, was intoxicated, had an open can of beer in his vehicle and was unstable on his feet when he exited the truck. He stated he was going to Franklinton, although he was headed in the opposite direction.

Trotter was uncooperative with deputies, refusing to perform a roadside sobriety test. He was transported to jail where he also refused to take a breath analysis test. He was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on charges of driving while intoxicated and having an open container of alcohol in his vehicle. He was released on March 22 after posting a $2,500 bond.

“Intoxicated drivers are a significant threat to all other drivers on the road,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Thankfully, Mr. Trotter made it to the shoulder of the road before he fell asleep at the wheel. Our deputies, as usual, did an excellent job, possibly preventing injury or death if there had been an accident.”

Son Arrested for Murder of Father in Folsom-area Shooting

Clifford Lawshe, Jr., age 26 and of Folsom, was arrested Tuesday (March 22, 2022) evening for the murder of his father. 

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 80000 block of Dreamland Court near Folsom at approximately 6:45 p.m. Tuesday in reference to a domestic-related disturbance. The 43-year-old shooting victim was transported to a local area hospital with gunshot wounds. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the hospital. His son, Clifford Lawshe, Jr. was arrested without incident and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for Second-degree Murder.

STPSO detectives have learned Lawshe and his father got into an argument at the Dreamland Court residence. At some point during that argument, Lawshe retrieved a pistol and shot his father.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 22, 2022





Randy Trotter (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Open Container in Vehicle. Released on $2500.00 bond.

Shanda Honaker (Angie, La. address) was booked In From Court

Aletha Marshall (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Monetary Instrument Abuse/Counterfeit Moneys by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Michael Graham (Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's office. No bond set at this time.

Lindsay Beall (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Arson of Inhabited Dwelling 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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March 22, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for March 20-21, 2022





Jeremy Forbes (Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Derolodi Barnes (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, No MVI, No Drivers License, Improper Lane Usage, Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 (3 counts), and Obstruction of Highway by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $4000.00 bond.

Michael Turnage (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $1000.00.

Reece Carroll (Bogalusa, La. address) 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.

Melissa Magee (Angie, La. address) was booked In For Court