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April 30, 2022

Obituary

Lawrence Albert Tynes, “El-Tee”

January 9, 1949 - April 29, 2022

4-Hour SWAT Standoff in Slidell Ends With Safe Release of Two Children

Yesterday (April 29, 2022) around 4:30pm, Slidell Police responded to the 700 block of Pine Tree Street after receiving information that 34-year-old Thomas Wells was inside of a residence and was making homicidal and suicidal threats, with two young children inside.

When officers arrived on the scene, Wells barricaded himself inside of the residence and took the two children as hostages, refusing to let them leave the residence. The Slidell Police S.W.A.T. team, along with hostage negotiators, responded to the scene. After a nearly four-hour standoff, negotiators were able to assist with the children's' safe release (unharmed), and the S.W.A.T. team successfully took Wells into custody. The incident ended around 9:40pm.

Wells was taken to a local hospital to be evaluated and treated for CS gas exposure. Slidell Police detectives are currently investigating the incident. Criminal charges are expected. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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April 29, 2022

Bogalusa Police Arrests Two & Seize $120,000 Worth of Narcotics

In the early morning hours of Tuesday, April 26, 2022, Bogalusa Police Department Criminal Patrol Officers were dispatched to a location on the northside of the city in reference to a disturbance involving several subjects with guns.

Upon their arrival the subjects were gone. While enroute to the call an officer observed a vehicle in a parking lot on Austin Street. The vehicle matched the description of one of the vehicles from the disturbance call, so the officer stopped to investigate.

Gregory Johnson (age 30) and Kennia Brown (age 31) were with the vehicle and were questioned. Johnson falsely identified himself and, while questioning them, officers observed illegal narcotics and two handguns in the vehicle. Both subjects were placed under arrest. Once identified, it was found that Johnson had six warrants for his arrest, including three felony warrants.

As the investigation continued, officers discovered that the vehicle had been shot and was leaking fluid from the radiator. Upon checking under the hood officers located a backpack containing a large quantity of illegal narcotics.

Once Johnson and Brown were brought to the Bogalusa City Jail, Johnson was found to be concealing heroin and marijuana on his person.

Officers inventoried the evidence which consisted of the following: 29 bags of powder cocaine weighing in total 1.8 pounds, 45 grams of crack cocaine, 20 baggies containing a total of 1,930 tablets of MDMA (ECSTACY), 86 grams of methamphetamine, 5 baggies of marijuana weighing over 70 grams, 30 Suboxone strips, a small amount of heroin, 5 grams of THC wax, over 300 tablets of various narcotics, including over 230 Oxycodone, some suspected to be counterfeit, and two 9mm handguns. The estimated street value of the seized narcotics is over $120,000.

Gregory Johnson was charged with 5 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics, 3 counts of Possession of Schedule II Narcotics, 3 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I Narcotics, 1 count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule III Narcotics, 3 Counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Narcotics, Illegal Carrying of a Weapon while in Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance, Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon, Introduction of Contraband into a City Jail, and Resisting an Officer. The warrants for his arrest were for Second Degree Kidnapping, Second Degree Battery, Domestic Abuse Battery - Strangulation, and three Attachments for Failure to Appear in Court. Johnson has six prior arrests by the Bogalusa Police Department, including several for violent crimes, and he is a convicted felon.

Kennia Brown was charged with 5 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics, 3 counts of Possession of Schedule II Narcotics, 3 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I Narcotics, 1 count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule III Narcotics, 3 Counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Narcotics, Illegal Carrying of a Weapon while in Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance.

After booking at the Bogalusa City Jail, both Johnson and Brown were transferred to the Parish Jail. Bond was set at $75,000.00 on Johnson. Brown was released April 28, 2022 after posting a $30,000.00 bond.  

Obituary

Calvin Massengale

October 12, 1927 - April 27, 2022

Obituary

Walker "Bucky" B. Smith, IV

January 18, 1979 - April 27, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 28, 2022



Daneal Scott (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Determination of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts) and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Arlesha Brister (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Register As Sex Offender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Emerson Johnson (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving Under Suspension, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts), Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, and Distribution of Schedule 1 Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $150000.00.

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

Matthew Cotton (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In For Court and on the charge of Failure to Appear 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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April 28, 2022

WP Council Approves Fire Districts Requests

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (April 25, 2022) evening and addressed a short agenda consisting mainly of tax matters. The first item was the introduction of an ordinance to levy taxes for 2022 at a millage rate the same as the prior year. A Public Hearing will be held on the ordinance on May 9, 2022. The other three items were resolutions approved for Fire District No. 5, Fire District No. 6, and Fire District No. 7 to ask voters to approve renewals of existing taxes on November 8, 2022. Richard Moody with Fire District No. 6 spoke in support of the renewal measure in Fire District 6. 

In his report, Washington Parish President Richard Thomas 

  • remarked that the Washington Parish Solar Ordinance was now in place and complimented the Council and Attorney Wayne Kuhn on their efforts
  • noted that the Bogalusa Balloon Festival will occur on May 19-22
  • announced that on May 10, 2022, Southeast Louisiana Legal Services will have a “Wills for Heroes” event at the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in Bogalusa for all First Responders. First Responders will be provided free wills, powers of attorney, and living wills. First Responders should call 985-893-0076, ext. 519. The event will begin at 2:00 PM
  • spoke in support of the two tax measures on the April 30, 2022 ballot in Bogalusa
  • reported on a recent meeting with legislators from the tri-parish area (Washington, St. Tammany, and Tangipahoa parishes)
Transportation Supervisor Donnell Merritt provided an abbreviated report on work performed in the parish. 

Following comments from the Council members, the meeting adjourned.

Obscenity Arrest in St. Tammany – The 3rd This Month

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested another man – the third one this month - for committing sexual acts in a public parking lot.

A deputy, who was patrolling in the area of Highway 1085 and Highway 1077, was flagged down by a citizen around midday Thursday (April 28, 2022) in reference to a man who was observed masturbating in his vehicle in a nearby parking lot.

The individual had left his vehicle and was inside one of the stores picking up an order when the deputy arrived.  Upon exiting the store the man was confronted by deputies, reportedly confessed and was taken into custody.

Travis Manint, age 42 and of Covington, is being booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail on one count of Obscenity, which is a felony.

“We will continue to take these crimes seriously,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “If you observe someone committing such acts, please call 911 immediately, as individuals who commit these crimes often escalate to committing more serious crimes in the future.”

Obituary

Sky Lee Hatcher

September 3, 1986 - April 23, 2022

Obituary

Natoya N. Toomer

December 26, 1976 - April 23, 2022

Obituary

Miss'y Wilene H. Gordon

March 13, 1934 - April 16, 2022

Washington Parish Watermelon Fruit & Vegetable Association Meeting is Tuesday, May 3rd

The Washington Parish Watermelon Fruit & Vegetable Association will be meeting on Tuesday, May 3, 2022 at the LSU AgCenter County Extension office in Franklinton at 6:00 pm. 

Committee reports are due and committees are encouraged to meet at 5:45 to review reports. 

The meeting's purpose is discussion and planning of The Washington Parish 2023 Watermelon Festival.

The public is invited and encouraged to attend.

Antique Tractor, Engine & Truck Show is May 6-7 in Franklinton



Slidell Man Pleads Guilty Mid-Trial – Sentenced to 50 Years

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Wednesday (April 27, 2022), Oren Rapp Bowens, age 43 and from Slidell, pleaded guilty mid-trial, to manslaughter, possession with intent to distribute heroin, distribution of heroin and possession of buprenorphine.

Trial began for Bowens on Monday April 25, 2022, but he stopped the trial and pled guilty before his defense began. District Judge William Burris then sentenced Bowens to a total of 50 years in prison on the charges.

On October 19, 2017, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Major Crimes Unit was assigned an investigation into the death of a Slidell female which occurred on October 16, 2017. The victim’s boyfriend purchased heroin from the defendant on October 15, 2017. The victim and her boyfriend shared the heroin and hours later, the boyfriend found the victim suffering from a medical emergency and proceeded to take her to the hospital. The victim died at the hospital after being diagnosed with a brain abscess, which the Coroner's Office said was exacerbated by heroin toxicity, resulting in her death.

The victim’s father supported the resolution and provided an impact statement expressing his frustration with drug dealers preying on those suffering from addiction, as well as hope that no family would have to go through what he has experienced with the loss of his daughter.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Elizabeth Authement and Iain Dover.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 26-27, 2022





Trey Sheane (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $50000.00.

Alante Berger (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Resisting an Officer, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of CDS with Weapon Present (2 counts), Ran Stop Sign, Careless Operation, No Turn Signals, Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Possession of Marijuana (3rd offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Gregory Johnson (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (5 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (3 counts), Possession of Schedule IV Drugs (2 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of CDS with Weapon Present, and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kennia Brown (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (5 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts), Possession of Schedule IV Drugs (3 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (3 counts), and Possession of CDS with Weapon Present by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Heath Barber (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Stalking and Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs 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)

April 27, 2022

Two Arrested for Theft of Trailer from Kentwood Residence

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office Chief Jimmy Travis reports the arrest of two in connection with the theft of a utility trailer from a Kentwood residence in the early morning hours of March 12, 2022. During the investigation, detectives learned Kevin Lee Parrish and Jonathan Lloyd Poole were involved in the theft. Parrish and Poole were subsequently arrested for the theft, and during the interview, Poole reportedly admitted to still possessing the trailer. 

Detectives later recovered the trailer on Highway 42 in Springfield and released it to the rightful owner.

Jonathan Lloyd Poole (age 47) and Kevin Lee Parrish (age 49) were each charged with (1) count Theft of a Motor Vehicle and (1) count Failure to Appear. 

**All persons accused of any crime are assumed innocent until proven guilty.

Squirrel Attacks 78 Year-Old Slidell Man - Seriously

Slidell Police has reported that yesterday (April 26, 2022), SPD responded to a squirrel attack in progress. The caller stated that “a 78-year-old elderly man was actively being attacked by a squirrel, who was eating his hand. The man was attempting to choke the squirrel, but was unable to obtain a good grip.”

First responders arrived and observed the elderly gentleman still struggling with the vicious squirrel. The squirrel was eventually subdued and died as a result of its injuries. 

The gentleman was transported to a local hospital to be treated for his injuries, some of which were pretty significant. The gentleman is expected to make a full recovery.

It was discovered that the man was walking around outside of his home, when the squirrel came from the direction of his roof and attacked him (unprovoked).

SPD further reports that “it is difficult to find statistics on squirrel attacks. According to the experts, it is very rare for squirrels to attack people, but there have been documented cases of squirrels attacking and biting people and pets sometimes severely enough to cause injury. A diseased squirrel may be more likely to show aggressive or hostile behavior towards human beings. However, when a squirrel does attack, it is not always possible to determine why. This is the second reported squirrel attack in Slidell, this year. The first occurred in February, during a Mardi Gras parade.”

Two Arrested by STPSO on Obscenity Charges

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested two men after they were both observed committing sexual acts in local parking lots during two separate incidents. (Images not available at this time but will be posted here when available)

Incident 1. Austin St. Cyr, age 22 and of Tangipahoa Parish, was arrested Wednesday (April 27, 2022) on a warrant for one count of Obscenity (felony) in connection with an incident that occurred April 12 in a shopping center parking lot off U.S. Highway 190. In that case, a woman called to report a man pulled into an adjacent parking spot and began masturbating while watching her. A photo of that suspect was posted on social media and thanks to tips called in by citizens, St. Cyr was identified. He turned himself in after being made aware of the warrant issued for his arrest. He was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center. 

Incident 2. Thomas Beall, age 37 and of Alexandria, was arrested Tuesday (April 26, 2022). STPSO deputies received a report from another woman of another man observed masturbating in his vehicle in a shopping center parking lot off Louisiana Highway 21. Deputies responded within minutes and located Beall, still naked in his vehicle in the parking lot. He initially refused to give deputies his name, but was taken into custody. He was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for Obscenity (felony), Resisting Arrest and Open Container.

“Thanks to the help of our social media followers and the quick response of our patrol deputies in our new Third District, two sexual deviants were taken off the streets before they could victimize more people,” Sheriff Randy Smith said.

If you observe someone committing such acts, please call 911 immediately, as individuals who commit these crimes often escalate to committing more serious crimes in the future.                                             

WPSS: Free Pre-K - Registration Still Open



Canine Carnival 2022 is June 11th - Make Plans!

Canine Carnival is coming to Washington Parish for the first time. Lots of booths, so many adoptable pets, pup cones and so much more. Main events are...

* Parade (from the opening arch of the fair grounds to the rodeo arena). Bring your pet in a costume or wagon... 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place voted on by the public.

* Best in show (entry fee $10). Bring your dog and compete to see if it is the best dog in Washington Parish. Animals must be vaccinated and able to walk on leash, applications must be turned in before May 25th.

* Most Trained (entry fee $10). Can your pet do any cool tricks or love to dance? Each contestant will be given a one minute slot to show off their talent. Applications must be turned in before May 25th.

Vendors and sponsors must be set no later than May 18th. For sponsor slots please email washingtonparishanimalshelter@gmail.com



Don't Miss It! Bogalusa Balloon Festival is May 19-22



Obituary

Linda Berry

December 12, 1945 - April 27, 2022

Obituary

Cynthia Youse

January 11, 1958 - April 27, 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)

April 26, 2022

STPSO Applicant Arrested for Carnal Knowledge

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested a Covington-area man for Carnal Knowledge after evidence of the crime surfaced following his application for employment with the agency.

While completing the new hire processing for applicant Robert Ebersole, Jr.(age 52), STPSO detectives received information that he may have been involved in an inappropriate relationship with an under-aged individual several years prior. That led detectives to launch an investigation and reach out to the possible victim.

The result of that investigation led investigators to arrest Ebersole for Felony Carnal Knowledge Tuesday (April 26, 2022) afternoon. He will be booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.

“This is not the type of person we want representing and working for our agency, and this is why we conduct an extensive background investigation on all of our applicants prior to them being granted full employment status,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “I hold all of our employees to the highest standard, and I find it very unsettling that someone who committed this sort of crime, regardless of how long ago it occurred, was seeking a position of employment with this agency, or any law enforcement agency.”

Obituary

Elizabeth Joy Purvis Fortenberry

June 22, 1947 - April 26, 2022

Obituary

Charles Michael "Mike" Cassidy

November 11, 1941 - April 24, 2022

Obituary

Donald Lewis Ishman

September 27, 1988 - April 22, 2022

Obituary

Valerie Annette Dykes Slocum

September 2, 1966 - April 18, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 23-25, 2022










Joey Painter (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3250.00.

Ashleigh King (Mandeville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info, Principle to Identity Theft, Speeding 31-40 Over Limit, Driving Under Suspension, No Insurance, Probation Violation, Drivers License Not on Person, and Registration/No Proof/Must Carry by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

Christopher Miller (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts) and Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. Bond set at $25000.00.

Willie Buckhana (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Marijuana, Improper Lane Usage, and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

J'Kobe Andrews (Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Monetary Instrument Abuse/Counterfeit Moneys, Possession of Stolen Property, and Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

John Trotter (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked In From Court and on the charges of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 1000-5000, Criminal Damage, Criminal Trespass, and No Drivers License 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)

Obituary

Valerie Zeringue Miller

August 27, 1956 - April 18, 2022

April 25, 2022

One Smokin Fella BBQ Event is April 30th

Come on out to 1938 Washington St. in Franklinton and "Like" them on Facebook



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)

April 24, 2022

April 23, 2022

RCC Personnel “Cleans Up” in Franklinton

Yesterday (April 22, 2022), staff from Rayburn Correctional Center participated in the “Love the Boot” Litter Campaign. A team consisting of administrative and security personnel cleaned the surrounding area of the little league baseball park in Franklinton. 

It was Bill Nye that said “To leave the world better than you found it, sometimes you have to pick up other people’s trash.



Solve the Mystery! Help Slidell Police ID These Two

Slidell Police are asking the public's help in identifying two accused of theft of  $800 worth of perfumes from Ulta Beauty on April 9, 2022. 

If you know the identity of these thieves, call Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. YOU CAN REMAIN ANONYMOUS AND MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR A CASH REWARD! You may also drop a message on SPD's FB page or send an email to PIO@slidellpd.com

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 21-22, 2022










Paul Page (Poplarville, Ms. address) was booked In From Court

Darrell Wells (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In From Court

Christopher Rachal (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Assault/Domestic Violence and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Zarius Brown (Franklinton, La. address) was booked In For Court

Christopher Bagert (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Contempt of Court (4 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Two Rescued From River North of Franklinton

Franklinton Police Chief Justin Brown advised last night (April 22, 2022) that at approximately 9:00 PM, the Franklinton Police Department, in conjunction with the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, conducted a swift water rescue on the Bogue Chitto river 4.5 miles north of Franklinton. FPD Officers successfully located and rescued  two females clinging to a log in the middle of the river.

The females were reportedly canoeing with a group when their canoe capsized after hitting an obstruction. When officers arrived, the canoe was submerged and the women were clinging to a log. The leg of one woman was pinned between the canoe and the log by the current. The women advised they had been in the water for two hours. A member of the group who had reached the river bridge alerted law enforcement.

One female was transported to the hospital with a hip injury and the other received treatment for exposure.

Chief Brown stated, "Both individuals are extremely blessed to be alive. The situation was very hazardous given the swift current and the water level of the river. I'm afraid the result would have been very different had not the emergency call been placed and our agencies didn't have the equipment and training necessary to conduct swift water rescues. I am thankful for the continued partnership with the Sheriff's office and the outstanding work of our police officer's and deputies."

Obituary

Marilyn Carson Hicks

May 5, 1954 - April 20, 2022

Obituary

Rev. Lee Voine Williams, Sr.

April 20, 1944 - April 17, 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)

April 22, 2022

Wheelchair User Struck and Killed Near Slidell

Shortly after midnight on Friday, April 22, 2022, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a fatal crash on US 11 near Oak Harbor Blvd., in St. Tammany Parish. The crash claimed the life of a man who was using a wheelchair to cross US 11. Troopers are withholding the name of the deceased pending proper notification to next of kin.

The initial investigation led Troopers to determine that the crash occurred as a 2014 Nissan Altima was traveling northbound on US 11. At the same time, a wheelchair user was attempting to cross the travel lanes of US 11. The wheelchair user was wearing dark clothing and utilizing a dark colored electric wheelchair with no lighting. As the wheelchair entered the northbound lane of US 11, the user was struck by the front of the Nissan Altima.

The wheelchair user was transported to a local hospital in critical condition. Shortly after arriving at the hospital, he succumbed to injuries sustained in the crash. The driver of the Altima was properly restrained and was not injured in the crash. Impairment is not suspected by either of the involved parties. Blood samples were collected and will be submitted to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab and St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office for toxicological analysis.

Body of Missing Slidell-area Man Found

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office deputies with the STPSO Operations Division, working with members of the STPSO Investigations Division, located the body of John Andrews today (April 22, 2022) in a wooded area near the Airport Road exit of I-12. Foul play is not suspected. 

John Andrews was last seen by a family member at his Slidell-area residence at approximately 10 a.m. on April 17, 2022. Andrews reportedly left a note suggesting possible self-harm.  

Obituary

Oliver John Jolet, Jr.

February 4, 1931 - April 21, 2022

Obituary

Peggy Wallace

April 10, 1934 - April 21, 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)

April 21, 2022

Kentwood Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Employer and Filing False Taxes

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on April 19, 2022 Michael J. Goll, age 46 and of Kentwood, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and filing false federal tax returns. Goll entered his guilty plea before U.S. District Judge Wendy B. Vitter. Judge Vitter scheduled Goll’s sentencing for July 26, 2022, at 1:30 p.m.

According to court documents, Goll defrauded the company he worked for of approximately $549,667.39. Additionally, Goll's false tax returns caused a tax loss to the United States of $188,694.00.

Click here for a previous story with more details

Click here for the Factual Basis and even more details

Man Sought for Questioning in McComb Shooting

The Pike County (MS) Sheriff’s Office has advised that 21 year-old Demarques Washington is wanted by their agency for questioning regarding a shooting that occurred today (April 21, 2022) in the 1000 Block of North Live Oak St. in McComb. The victim had been shot in the neck and was airlifted to UMMC for treatment of his injuries. 

Washington is considered to be armed and dangerous! If anyone knows of the whereabouts of Washington, please call 9-1-1, Pike County Sheriff’s Office at 601-783-6767, or Pike County Crime Stoppers at 601-869-7141.

Covington Man Sentenced to 40 Years For Attempted Manslaughter and Other Charges

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Wade Ostarly was sentenced on Wednesday (April 20, 2022) by District William Burris to 40 years in prison, the first 20 without the benefit of parole. In December of 2021, a 12-person jury convicted the defendant of attempted manslaughter, domestic abuse, aggravated assault, illegal discharge of a weapon during a crime of violence and illegal possession of a firearm by a person previously convicted of domestic abuse.

The crimes occurred on August 26, 2019 in the early morning hours. The victim and her two children were in their home sleeping when the defendant kicked in the front door. The victim dialed 9-1-1 but the defendant took the phone from her and put it in his pocket. The children were able to escape and ran through a field and a creek to their grandparent’s home.

The defendant, armed with a firearm, dragged the victim by her hair outside to a gravel driveway. The defendant pinned her down while pointing the gun at her face and threatening to kill her. As she pleaded for her life, the defendant fired the weapon toward her head. The bullet missed her but gravel, debris and shrapnel tore into the victim’s shoulder. The victim ran and attempted to barricade herself in the house but the defendant now had a shovel. The victim wrestled the defendant over the shovel and the defendant pushed her into the microwave causing a laceration to her head.

Unknown to either the victim or the defendant, the 9-1-1 operator was still on the line and the entire attack was recorded. In the 911 recording played at trial, the victim continually pleaded for her life and the defendant repeatedly told her he was going to kill her.

Because of the egregious nature of the attack, Judge Burris ordered several of the counts to run consecutively to one another, thereby adding an additional 20 years to an otherwise 20-year sentence.

ADA’s Iain Dover and Carolyn Chkautovich prosecuted the case.

Click here for a previous story

Obituary

Linda Mary Ard

October 15, 1952 - April 21, 2022

Obituary

Larry Q. Barber

February 26, 1951 - April 20, 2022

Bogalusa Man Sentenced to 11 years by Federal Court

Ja'Vontay Owens, age 28 and a resident of Bogalusa, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans on Wednesday (April 20, 2022). 

Owens plead guilty to a three-count indictment charging him with drug and firearm offenses. The Court imposed concurrent 72 month sentences as to Counts 1 and 2 and a consecutive 60 month sentence as to Count 3 followed by four (4) years of supervised release.  The Court ordered Owens  to pay a total of $300 in mandatory special assessment fees.  

According to court documents, on September 26, 2020, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputies executed a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Owens on Highway 21 in Bogalusa. Deputies smelled marijuana on Owens and placed him under arrest.  While searching Owens pursuant to his arrest, deputies retrieved approximately 27 grams of methamphetamine from Owen's underwear.  Deputies searched Owen's vehicle and found approximately 5 grams of cocaine base, less than 1 gram of heroin, and a loaded black Glock, Model 19, nine millimeter, semi-automatic pistol. 

Owens is a previously convicted felon and was aware of his felon status prior to possession of the firearm.

This case was investigated by the federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones.

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Obituary

Barbara D. Hunter Lathan

June 26, 1933 - April 16, 2022

Spring Clean Up Day is Saturday in Bogalusa District A

District A Councilwoman Gloria Kates announces that  Saturday, April 23, 2022 is District A Clean-up Day in conjunction with Love the Boot Clean up Week focusing on the city’s nuisance ordinances. “The theme for District A Cleanup Day will be geared toward the importance of our awareness and accountability of our environment and surroundings."

Your help is needed and we are calling on all volunteers from: Non-profit organizations, Schools, Community Colleges. Environmental Clubs, Service Clubs , Youth Groups, Churches, Juvenile & Adult Probation, Community Service Programs and the General Public.

Focus: Nuisances such as Litter, trash, weeds and wild growth

Areas: Volunteers will be assigned. Residents may adopt your block.

Please bring your weed eaters, hedge cutters, and your choice of cutting tool in order to clean up. Dumpsters will be placed at Poplas and Redmond and 2nd St. and MLK.

Kates requests volunteers to meet up at  the corner of Poplas Street and Redmond Street on April  23rd. Hours are 08:00 a.m. until  noon. District A extends north to City Limits Road, south to Forth Avenue, east to Austin Street and west to parts of North Columbia Road. 

Covid 19 preventive measures will be practiced.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 20, 2022



Alphonso Casbon (Harvey, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jacob Jones (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kelvin Moses (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation and Simple Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Ashley Thomas (Bush, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

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

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

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)

April 20, 2022

Free Online Financial Workshops through Washington Parish Library

The Washington Parish Library is connecting users with free Zoom financial workshops on topics like paying down debt, saving for college, and Medicare basics through September 2022. The workshop series has six courses each devoted to a specific financial topic. To accommodate as many people as possible, each course is held twice on Tuesdays and once on Fridays with a new course each week. Users can aend any class and do not need to attend all of them to participate. Users can choose from classes at 4:30pm-6pm Tuesday, 9pm-10:30pm Tuesday, or 12pm-1:30pm Friday. To register, please visit https://tinyurl.com/juliaworkshoprsvp

Upcoming classes include:

  • 04/26/22 or 04/29/22: Building Wealth; Asset Accumulation
  • 05/03/22 or 05/06/22: Saving for College; Retirement Planning
  • 05/24/22 or 05/27/22: Long Term Care; Medicare Basic; Wealth Preservation
  • 06/07/22 or 06/10/22: Personal Budgeting; Debt Management
  • 06/14/22 or 06/17/22: Emergency Fund; Building A Strong Financial Foundation
  • 06/21/22 or 06/24/22: Proper Protection

For questions about the workshop, please call 480-619-1221.

The Washington Parish Library also wants to remind you that we have laptops and hotspots available for checkout!

Public Hearing on Redistricting Plans for Bogalusa City School System is Today (April 20th)



Obituary

Joseph William Harper

July 31, 1937 - April 11, 2022

Public Hearing on Redistricting Plans for Bogalusa Council is April 25th