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July 31, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 29-30, 2022

Michael Bourne (21 year-old W/M with Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Heroin, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Expired Drivers License by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Emmanuel Tate (36 year-old B/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jamey Sheridan (50 year-old W/M with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $7000.00 bond.

Gararth Brown (33 year-old B/M with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Battery, Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner, and Improper Use of 911 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

James Bossier (43 year-old with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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July 30, 2022

Body of Man Who Jumped from Twin Spans Recovered

Shortly after 8:00 AM on Saturday morning (July 30, 2022), the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office
Marine Division, with the assistance of the United States Coast Guard and Fire District 1 recovered the body of a 31 year old Marrero man who apparently jumped from the Twin Spans on Thursday night (July 28, 2022).  The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office has positively identified the man as Jermaine Smith. 

On Thursday night (July 28, 2022) just after 8:30PM, deputies responded to a call of a man who  jumped off the Twin Spans in Slidell. The man was reportedly experiencing a mental health crisis at the time. The STPSO Marine Division along with the United States Coast Guard and Fire District 1 conducted a search that continued until his body was found Saturday morning.

“This is a tragedy for both he and his family. There are so many resources available for those experiencing a mental health crisis. I commend the hard work of the search team in giving his family some type of closure. If you or someone you know is experiencing such a crisis please contact NAMI at 985-626-6538, or if an emergency call 911,” Sheriff Randy Smith stated.

Woman Shot in Chest Friday Night in Slidell Area

On Friday night (July 29, 2022), St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a shooting of a female at the Woodland Grove Apartments in the Slidell area. She was transported to a local area hospital, and is in stable condition.

Detectives determined that the female was shot after arriving at the apartment to speak with her ex-boyfriend, 18 year-old Reginald White. A disturbance ensued, and Reginald White fired a gun at the victim striking her once in the chest. White fled the scene prior to deputies’ arrival.

Detectives obtained an arrest warrant for Reginald White for one count of Attempted Second Degree Murder. White has not been located, and therefore the Sheriff’s Office is asking anyone with information regarding White’s whereabouts to contact the Sheriff’s Office at 985-898-2340 or dial 911.

RCC Welcomes Cadets & Presents Awards

On July 28, 2022, Rayburn Correctional Center graduated Academy 218 on July 28, 2022 and  welcomes aboard Cadets Brady Polkey, Quinn McClennan, and Zachary Bradford. (All pictured right)

In addition, RCC presented 2nd Quarter Employee Awards to the following (All pictured below):

  • Master Sgt. Connor Holmes - Officer of the Month for June 2022 
  • Brittany Morgan (Classifications) - Non-Security Supervisor of the Quarter 
  • Lt. Brooke Thomas - Security Supervisor of the Quarter 
  • Robert Breland (IT) - Support Employee of the Quarter 


Obituary

Lonnie Charles Magee, Jr.

November 17, 1987 - July 23, 2022

Obituary

Doris Lorell Varnado Hill

May 25, 1939 - July 29, 2022

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July 29, 2022

Obituary

Karl L. Alford, Jr.

September 8, 1956 - July 29, 2022

Obituary

Elizabeth Gail Pittman-McDaniel

September 26, 1945 - July 28, 2022

Obituary

Sherry Delane Hartfield

November 15, 1957 - July 28, 2022

Female Homeowner in Slidell Assaulted/Shots Fired/Two Arrested

Two Mississippi men have been arrested on gun charges following a disturbance at a Slidell area residence. Shortly after 2:30 PM on Thursday (July 28, 2022), St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office deputies responded to a disturbance at a residence located on the 200 block of Blue Crane Rd in the Slidell area.

A female homeowner was confronted in her front yard by two females that were known to her. A verbal ensued and moments later a second vehicle with three male occupants arrived. One of the three males, later identified as 21 year-old Taraygus Smith, fired multiple times. The homeowner  returned fire. No injuries were sustained during the incident.

Due to a quick response time, the vehicle containing the suspect was detained immediately by deputies. A follow-up investigation quickly determined that Taraygus Smith was the shooter and that another occupant of the vehicle, 21 year-old Marcus Clay, also played a role in the crime.

Smith was charged with Illegal Discharge of a Firearm, Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, and Obstruction of Justice. Marcus Clay was charged with Obstruction of Justice and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

“I commend the quick response time of our deputies in getting these dangerous individuals off our streets. Let this be a reminder we will not tolerate these acts of violence. If you come into our parish and commit these crimes, you will be arrested,” Sheriff Randy Smith stated.

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July 28, 2022

Obituary

Betty Rose Pigott Hunt

July 12, 1936 - July 26, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 25-26, 2022

Michael Hunt (62 year-old W/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Ran Red Light, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Rachel Miley (57 year-old W/F with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (3rd Offense), Driving With Suspended License Due to Previous DWI (or Other), and Careless Operation With Accident by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $15000.00.

Jessica Mezquite (20 year-old W/F with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Attempted First Degree Murder/AG Assault/Principals by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $75000.00.

Alante Berger (26 year-old B/M with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Marijuana, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, and No Drivers License by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Lisa Dunaway (43 year-old W/F with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5050.00.

Josephine Turner (18 year-old B/F with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Arson by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $15000.00.

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.

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Free COVID Testing at the Bogalusa Library

The Bogalusa Library now has free COVID tests for residents. Simply pick up a test at the COVID Test station near the front door of the Bogalusa Library, follow the directions provided, then return your test to the drop-off bin. In a few days, your results will be available online using the information from the kit you brought home. This is completely free for everyone, and it limits the amount of contact with others in order to get tested.

This program is made possible thanks to the Association for Rural & Small Libraries and Color Health as part of the CDC’s Increasing Community Access To Testing Program.

Photo: Marsha Miley, Branch Manager of the Bogalusa Library, showcases the COVID testing station at her branch.

July 27, 2022

Bogalusa Police Reports Two Shooting Incidents Wednesday Evening / Mayor Provides Statement

On Wednesday (July 27, 2022) at 5:50 pm the Bogalusa Police Department received a call of a shooting in the 600 block of Superior Avenue. Officers found that one victim had been transported by personal vehicle to Our Lady of the Angels Emergency Room. Another victim, still on scene, was critically wounded, was treated by EMS, and then was  transported to the hospital. BPD stated that the condition of the victims cannot be released at this time.

Update (at approximately 11:00 pm on July 27, 2022 : An update from the Bogalusa Police Department identified the victims as Javorius Scott, A.K.A. JayDaYoungan and close family member Kenyatta Scott, Sr. Javorius Scott is reported to have died as a result of his injuries. Kenyatta Scott, Sr. has been transported to another facility and is reported to be in stable condition.

While BPD was working a chaotic scene at the hospital and working the crime scene on Superior Avenue, another shooting took place in the 800 block of Marshall Richardson Road shortly after 7:00 pm. In that case a vehicle was shot, possibly related to the first shooting. The occupants were not hit. Detectives are also actively working that crime scene.

BPD advises that several outside agencies are assisting. 

Anyone with any information concerning these incidents can call the Detective Division at (985) 732-6238. Callers may remain anonymous is they wish.

Mayor Wendy O'Quin-Perrette, who is out of town at a municipality meeting, provided the following written and video statements:

"The senseless shooting in Bogalusa is another tragic reminder of the pain that violent crime brings with it. First I ask that our residents remain calm while the police continue their investigation. My thoughts and prayers are with the victims family and friends. As your Mayor and as a Mother, I plead on behalf of our community and for our children, enough is enough. Stop the violence! This is not the time for politics. See something, say something. I have contacted the Louisiana State Police asking for for help to assist the Bogalusa Police Department and Washington Parish Sheriff's Office."

Arrest Made in Shooting Near Mt. Hermon

Last Saturday (July 23, 2022), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report of a man who had been shot in the vicinity of Sunny Hill Road in the Mt. Hermon area. Deputies discovered a male victim who had been shot several times in the chest and face. The victim was treated on the scene by District 9 Fire Department personnel, Northshore EMS personnel and deputies on the scene before being transported by ambulance to Riverside Medical Center where an air ambulance was waiting to relocate him to a trauma center.

WPSO detectives took control of the investigation and identified the shooter as 18 year-old Tyler Oatis, a resident of Gill Road. The location of the shooting was determined to be at the intersection of Highway 38 and Sunny Hill Road. A warrant was obtained for Oatis’ arrest and he was apprehended in Pike County, Mississippi. He was extradited to Washington Parish on July 26, 2022. Oatis will stand before a 22nd Judicial Magistrate Judge on July 28, at which time a bond amount will be established.

“This investigation is ongoing,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal, “and it is likely there will be additional arrests. It is a complicated situation revolving around the issue of illegal drugs. I congratulate our deputies and detectives for their prompt response and good work in this matter.”

Missouri Man Charged With Murder in July 8th Vehicle Crash in Varnado

Craig Allen Breidenbach, age 54 and a resident of Clyde Avenue in St. Louis, Missouri, was booked into the Washington Parish Jail late in the evening of July 26, 2022. Breidenbach’s charges include second degree murder and reckless operation of a motor vehicle. His bond has been set at $600,000. He had been hospitalized in New Orleans since July 8 due to serious injuries suffered during a motor vehicle accident on that date.

After a thorough investigation by Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives, it has been determined that Breidenbach, while driving on Highway 21 inside the village limits of Varnado on July 8, intentionally drove his vehicle into another vehicle occupied by Sylvia Ann Harry, a resident of the Wesley Ray Community near Angie, causing Harry’s death and Breidenbach’s injuries.

Breidenbach was released from the hospital on July 26 at which time Orleans Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies transported him to St. Tammany Parish. Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies met them there and then transported Breidenbach to the parish jail in Franklinton.

“We’re glad Breidenbach is in the Washington Parish Jail,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “That is exactly where he needs to be until he can be tried and convicted in a court of law. The next stop for him should be a lifetime stay in a Louisiana prison. His incarceration certainly will not bring back the precious lady whose life he took, but it will bring justice to an otherwise horrible incident.”

Slidell Woman Pleads Guilty to Attempted First Degree Murder, 3 Counts of Aggravated Battery and Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Mariel Dannell Lewis, age 38 and of Slidell, pleaded guilty on Monday (July 25, 2022) to Attempted First Degree Murder, three counts of Aggravated Battery, and Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence.

Lewis was sentenced the same day by District Judge Vincent Lobello to 30 years for Attempted First-Degree Murder, Three Counts of Aggravated Battery, and Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence. The court ordered the 30-year sentence is to be served without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. Lewis had no prior criminal record. 

On May 18, 2021 Slidell Police were dispatched to a Days Inn in Slidell in reference to a stabbing in progress. Upon arrival, officers observed the victim, a front desk clerk for the hotel, lying on his back, covered in blood with puncture wounds to his body. Two witnesses identified the defendant as having stabbed the clerk. Officers found Lewis holding a bloody box-cutter style knife and with wet blood on her clothes and person. Lewis refused to comply with officers’ instructions, became agitated and took an aggressive stance, daring officers to “shoot” her. Following a successful taser deployment, Lewis fell to the ground where officers were able to subdue her.

Police learned the victim had advised Lewis and her male companion that they had to vacate their room due to non-payment. During the encounter, Lewis became angry and attacked the victim from behind. Lewis pepper-sprayed the victim and then began stabbing him with a boxcutter, intentionally trying to cut his throat. Eventually, the victim collapsed to the ground and Lewis continued her attack. After being arrested and read her Miranda rights, Lewis admitted she stabbed the victim repeatedly and followed the victim as he tried to escape out of the room where "things got crazy." She said she had continued to stab him "because he disrespected me. Nobody f*ing disrespects me."

Hotel security footage captured the incident, including Lewis’s pepper spraying the victim and two other motel guests who tried to intervene and assist the victim.

Assistant District Attorney Tiffany Dover prosecuted the case and the Slidell Police Department conducted the investigation.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 25-26, 2022

Jakyren Ladner (22 year-old B/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Providing False Booking Info, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Stolen Firearm, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $50000.00 bond.

Craig Breidenbach (54 year-old W/M with St. Louis, Mo. address) was booked on the charges of 2nd Degree Murder and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $600000.00.

Gararth Brown (33 year-old B/M with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Glenn Spears (24 year-old W/M with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Tyler Oatis (18 year-old B/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Attempted First Degree Murder/Aggravated Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Medhat Alhashimi (32 year-old W/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear, Battery on a Police Officer (2 counts), Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Driving Under Suspension, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Aggravated Assault with a Vehicle on an Officer, Resisting an Officer (2 counts), and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $60000.00.

Donnie Magee (43 year-old W/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

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July 26, 2022

Obituary

David "Buck" Bennett

October 30, 1947 - July 25, 2022

Kentwood Woman Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Crash

Yesterday (July 25, 2022) morning, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal two vehicle crash on LA Hwy 440 at the LA Hwy 1061 intersection in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 35-year-old Shaquanti Moore of Kentwood.

The initial investigation revealed that the crash occurred as a 2000 Ford F-150, driven by 25-year-old David Hyde Jr. of Amite, was stopped at a stop sign in the southbound lane of LA Hwy 1061 at the intersection with LA Hwy 440. At the same time, a 2017 Jeep Wrangler, driven by Moore, was eastbound on LA Hwy 440. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford failed to yield at the posted stop sign and traveled into the intersection. Upon entering the intersection, the Ford impacted the left side of the Jeep. After impact with the Ford, the Jeep overturned. 

Moore was unrestrained and ejected from the Jeep. She sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. Hyde was properly restrained and was not injured. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from Hyde and Moore for analysis. This crash remains under investigation and charges are pending.

While not all crashes are survivable, statistics show that properly wearing your seat belt will dramatically reduce your chance of being injured or killed in a crash. Louisiana law requires that every person in a vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain buckled up. Properly wearing your seat belt is one of the most effective ways to save your life and reduce injuries in crashes.

Bogalusa Fire Department Promotions Announced

Captain Adrian Brister was permanently appointed to District Chief on April 1, 2022.  He is a 30
year employee of the Bogalusa Fire Department. 

Driver Michael Hollywood was permanently appointed to Captain on May 20, 2022. He has been an employee of the Bogalusa Fire Department for 11 years.  

Pictured from left to right:  Chief Richard Moody, Captain Michael Hollywood, Mayor Wendy O’Quin-Perrette, and District Chief Adrian Brister.

Obituary

Darius Harry

May 14, 1983 - July 22, 2022

Crash Claims Life of Wesley Ray Woman

The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office reported today (July 26, 2022) that on July 8, 2022, the WPSO responded to a fatal crash on Highway 21 in Varnado. Sylvia Ann Harry, a resident of the Wesley Ray community, was an innocent victim after her vehicle was struck head-on by a van driven by Craig Breidenbach, a resident of St. Louis, Missouri. Breidenbach suffered serious injuries and is still undergoing medical treatment. The Louisiana State Police assisted at the scene.

A wonderful Christian lady, Sylvia was a graduate of Varnado High School and Sullivan Technical College. She was employed for 27 years as a Paraprofessional at Wesley Ray Elementary School. Sylvia faithfully served the Wesley Ray United Methodist Church as President of the Usher Board and co-secretary for Vacation Bible School as well as serving her community as a caregiver.

“The loss of this precious lady is a loss for all of Washington Parish,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I extend my sincere condolences to her family and friends. The situation and facts of this tragic event are still being investigated and we hope to finish unraveling all the details in the near future. I assure everyone that the Sheriff’s Office will not rest until this case is fully resolved.

Meanwhile, I ask all parish citizens to cover this grieving family in prayer as they continue to mourn the tragic and senseless loss of their loved one.”

Louisiana Launches New 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline




22 Year-Old Convicted Felon Arrested With Stolen Firearm and Drugs - Bonded Out Next Morning

On Monday (July 25, 2022), Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office narcotics detectives encountered and arrested 22 year-old Jakyren Ladner, a resident of Smith Road, Franklinton. Ladner, a convicted felon, was in possession of a stolen firearm and marijuana.

Following a traffic stop inside the Town of Franklinton, Ladner was discovered in the rear seat of the vehicle. He refused to cooperate with detectives and initially provided a false name and a false date of birth, claiming to be Raymond Magee. After determining that he was Jakyren Ladner, detectives arrested him and discovered the marijuana and firearm which had been in his possession. The firearm, a 9 mm Glock semi-automatic pistol, had been stolen previously in Franklinton.

Ladner was transported to the Washington Parish Jail and booked on charges of resisting arrest by providing false information, possession of marijuana, possession of a stolen firearm and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. His bond was set at $50,000. He was able to post bond and was released on July 26, 2022.

“Once again our officers have encountered the potentially deadly combination of a convicted felon, illegal drugs and an illegal firearm. I congratulate these brave men for their continued hard work in removing criminals and drugs from the streets of our parish.”

Obituary

Cora Esther Miller Fields

March 5, 1952 - July 20, 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.

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July 25, 2022

Loranger Man Dies/Folsom Man Arrested in Boating Incident

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement Division agents are investigating a boating fatality that occurred Saturday (July 23, 2022) in Tangipahoa Parish. Agents were notified about the fatality around 4:30 p.m. 

The body of Hunter Prevost, age 21 and of Loranger, was recovered around 7 p.m. According to the other passengers on the vessel, Prevost fell off the front of a 25 foot vessel and got hit by the propeller.

Agents determined that the operator of the vessel, Lane Keenan age 22 and of Folsom, was impaired and arrested him for operating or driving a vessel while impaired (DWI), vehicular homicide and reckless operation of a vessel. Vehicular homicide brings a $2,000 to $15,000 fine and five to 30 years in prison.  DWI brings a $300 to $1,000 fine and up to six month in jail.  Reckless operation of a vessel carries up to a $200 fine and 90 days in jail.

LDWF will be the lead investigative agency for this fatal boating incident.  Prevost’s body was turned over to the Tangipahoa Parish Coroner’s Office. 

Candidates for Office on November 8, 2022 in Washington Parish

The Louisiana Secretary of State's website reflects the following slate of candidates on the November 8, 2022. To learn more details regarding the candidates and to review candidates in other jurisdictions, go to https://voterportal.sos.la.gov/candidateinquiry and select your parish. Sample ballots will be available approximately three weeks prior to the election.

In Washington Parish, candidates who are vying for office include:

U. S. Senator - 1 to be elected

Beryl A. Billiot (No Party from Kentwood), Gary Chambers Jr. (Democrat from Baton Rouge), Devin Lance Graham (Republican from Gonzales), "Xan" John (Other from Lafayette), John Kennedy (Republican from Baton Rouge), W. Thomas La Fontaine Olson (No Party from New Orleans), Bradley McMorris (Independent from Livingston), MV "Vinny" Mendoza (Democrat from Ponchatoula), “Luke" Mixon (Democrat from Bunkie), Salvador P. Rodriguez (Democrat from Tangipahoa), Aaron C. Sigler (Libertarian from Hammond), Syrita Steib (Democrat from Metairie), and Thomas Wenn (Other from Amite). 

U. S. Representative 5th Congressional District - 1 to be elected: Oscar "Omar" Dantzler (Democrat from Hammond), Allen Guillory (Republican from Lawtell), Walter Earl Huff (Democrat from Monroe), Julia Letlow (Republican from Rayville) and Hunter Pullen (Republican from West Monroe) 

Member of School Board District 1 - 1 to be elected: Justin Brown (Independent), Keith R. Giles (Republican), "Ray" Wuerzer (No Party)

Member of School Board District 2 - 1 to be elected: David N. Thoeny (Libertarian), John Wyble (Republican)

Member of School Board District 6 - 1 to be elected: Scott Breland (Republican), "Dewitt" Perry (Independent)

Member of School Board District 7 - 1 to be elected: Brynnan Cooper (Libertarian), Lee Alan McCain II (Independent), David "Big Dave" Pettit (No Party)

Member of School Board District 8 - 1 to be elected: Sarah Burris (Republican), Frankie Crosby Sr. (Democrat), Justina Marie Hart (No Party), Nicki L. Magee (Democrat)

Member of School Board District 9 - 1 to be elected: Lesley D. McKinley (Democrat), Gwendolyn Y. Pigott (Democrat) 

Member of School Board District 1, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Paul D. Kates (Democrat), Roniqua Toler Watkins (Democrat) 

Member of School Board District 2, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Ann G. Arata (Republican), LaVerne Cook Jr. (Democrat)

Member of School Board District 4, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Paul W. Dantin (No Party), Catherine "Cathy" Mitchell (Republican)

Member of School Board District 6, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Odie Hughes IV (Republican), "Joannie" Miller (Republican), Lazette L. Watterson (Democrat) 

Member of School Board District 7, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Michael Herring (Republican), "Brad" Williams (No Party) 

Mayor City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: "Teddy" Drummond (No Party), Wendy O'Quin Perrette (No Party/Other), Tyrin Truong (Democrat)

Councilmen at Large City of Bogalusa - 2 to be elected: Penny Douglas (Democrat), Wendy Williams Dupont (Independent), Marilyn Lott (Democrat), James "Mack" McGehee (No Party), Tamira Moss Smith (Democrat) 

Councilman District A, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Doris Cage Garrett (Democrat), Gloria W. Kates (Democrat) 

Councilman District B, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Ellen Carter (Democrat), Danielle Magee-Keys (Democrat)

Councilman District C, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Oneita H. Graham (No Party), Shelby Temples (Republican)

Councilman District E, City of Bogalusa - 1 to be elected: Cullie Cotton Jr., (Independent), "Mark" Irvine (No Party)

In Washington Parish, candidates who have no opposition include: 

  • Page McClendon - Judge, Court of Appeal 1st Circuit, 3rd Dist., Division B 
  • Elizabeth "Beth" Wolfe - Judge, Court of Appeal 1st Circuit, 3rd Dist., Division D
  • Bruce L. Brown, Sr. - Member of School Board District 3
  • Kendall McKenzie - Member of School Board District 4
  • Robert W. Boone - Member of School Board District 5
  • Willie "Toni" Breaux - Member of School Board District 3, City of Bogalusa
  • "Curtis" Creel - Member of School Board District 5, City of Bogalusa 
  • Trent Temples - City Prosecutor City of Bogalusa
  • Laurie Ball Pittman - Aldermen Village of Angie
  • Dorman "Kenny" Kellis - Councilman District D, City of Bogalusa

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 24, 2022

Joseph Hollingsworth (46 year-old W/M with Tickfaw, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft/Shoplifting, Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 (2 counts), Simple Burglary, Theft 5000-25000, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Aaron Sowell (30 year-old B/M with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Carnal Knowledge of Juvenile, 1st Degree Rape/Anal, and Sexual Battery (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Desmond Ramirez (35 year-old B/M with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Pregnant Woman by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Obituary

Terry Elizabeth Holden

March 1, 1962 - July 22, 2022

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July 24, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 23, 2022

Jeremy Payne (34 year-old B/M with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Ran Stop Sign, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Driving Under Suspension, and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Grayson Henley (32 year-old W/M with 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.

Christian Provost (23 year-old W/M with Folsom, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Assistance to Suicide, Cruelty to a Juvenile(s), and Resisting Arrest by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Timothy Graves (31 year-old B/M with 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.

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July 23, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 21-22, 2022

Jamie Ishman (41 year-old B/F with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Talage Ratliff (52 year-old with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $500.00.

Angelica Bennett (25 year-old W/F with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to a Juvenile (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

Laken Harris (34 year-old W/F with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Resisting an Officer, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2250.00.

Hedrick Bickham (63 year-old B/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Roderick Toomer (41 year-old B/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Damage, Obscenity, and Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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July 22, 2022

Washington Parish Watermelons on TWILA

Mt. Hermon Web-TV provides episodes of TWILA (This Week in Louisiana Agriculture) as they become available. Find the latest episode by scrolling down the left side of our website.

The latest episode features a segment (below) on Washington Parish watermelons. 

Auditor: Bogalusa Mayor and Council “Have Done a Spectacular Job”

At the meeting of the Bogalusa City Council on Tuesday (July 19, 2022), Robert Neilson, CPA delivered the Audit Report for the year ending December 31, 2021. Neilson commented on the resolution of problems plaguing the City for years and concluded that the Mayor and Council “have done a spectacular job”

Click here for the complete report

Click here for video of the Bogalusa City Council meeting on July 19, 2022

Robert Neilson, CPA Audit Report 07192022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Obituary

Alicia Dauser Branch

January 18, 1971 - July 19, 2022

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July 21, 2022

Former Amite Police Chief and Current Amite Councilmember Plead Guilty to Vote-Buying

Jerry Trabona (age 72 and a former Amite police chief in Amite) and Kristian “Kris” Hart (age 49 and a current Amite councilmember) pleaded guilty Wednesday (July 20, 2022) in New Orleans, Louisiana, to criminally violating federal election laws as part of a conspiracy to pay, or offer to pay, voters for voting in a federal election. 

According to court documents, Trabona and and Hart pleaded guilty to conspiring to pay and offering to pay voters residing in Tangipahoa Parish, Louisiana, for voting in the 2016 open primary election and the 2016 open general election. Trabona and Hart admitted that they agreed with each other and others to pay or offer to pay voters during contests in which the defendants were candidates, and in which federal candidates appeared on the same ballot.

In addition to the conspiracy with Trabona, Hart pleaded guilty to three counts of paying and offering to pay voters during both the 2016 and 2020 elections. In both elections, Hart was running for the seat he currently holds on the Amite City Council.

Both defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on November 1, 2022 and face up to five years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. 

Click here for the full press release


Obituary

Marvin Owen Cantrell

August 23, 1931 - July 20, 2022

Obituary

Steven Phillip Starns

November 3, 1959 - July 20, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for July 20, 2022

Eligie Winding (18 year-old B/M with Natalbany, La. address) was booked on the charges of Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles, No Drivers License, and Aggravated Flight from an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tyrion Jacobs (18 year-old B/M with Tickfaw, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Heroin, Possession of CDS with Weapon Present Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Hyread Mark (29 year-old B/M with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of CDS with Weapon Present by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

Christian Dillon (23 year-old B/M with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.

Brooklyn Magee (22 year-old W/F with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $11500.00.

Ritchie Martin (45 year-old W/M with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Assault/Domestic Violence by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Clem Knox (20 year-old B/M with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $50000.00.

Billy Cavanaugh (26 year-old W/M with Poplarville, La. address) was booked on the charge of Attempted Theft by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $4000.00.