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October 31, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 30, 2022

Christopher Williams (age 30 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Attempted Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Ritchie Martin (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, Criminal Trespass, and Entry/Remain on Premises After Being Forbidden by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Brittany Granier (age 32 with Petal, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Probation and Parole Hold, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Careless Operation, Resisting an Officer, Failure to Appear (2 counts), Expired License Plate, No Proof of Insurance, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Failure to Change/Secure Registration, Drivers License Not on Person, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, No MVI, and Obstruction to Drivers View or Driving Mechanism by the Louisiana State Police. Bond set at $25000.00.

Alesha Shamberger (age 27 with 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.

Bradley Wall (age 47 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana (3rd Offense), Inadequate Windshield, No Drivers License, Improper Equipment, Registration/No Proof/Must Carry, No License Plate, and Failure to Use Turn Signal by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Obituary

Joyce Marie Magruder Seal

February 9, 1963 - October 29, 2022

Tropical Disturbances Today



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)

October 30, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 29, 2022

Kendall Rowell (age 42 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts), Domestic Abuse Battery, and Domestic Abuse Battery (3rd Offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Aberto Montelongo (age 29 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (3rd Offense) and Driving Left of Center/Wrong Side of Hwy by the Louisiana State Police. Bond set at $15000.00.

Jennifer Hulin (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd + Offense), Child Restraint Violation (2nd Offense X 2), Possession of CDS in Presence of Juvenile, Driving Under Suspension, No Seat Belt, and No MVI 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)

October 29, 2022

Obituary

Barbara Ann Stewart Kennedy

June 1, 1944 - October 28, 2022

Obituary

Roger Dale Graham

November 2, 1947 - October 28, 2022

Bogalusa Man Pleads Guilty to Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 Counts)

Jakari Brown, a/k/a “Jakari Lemar,” age 24 and a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, pled guilty on October 25, 2022, before U.S. District Judge Greg G. Guidry to a superseding bill of information which charged him with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.

According to court documents, on April 25, 2019, Brown, a convicted felon, possessed an Iberia Firearm (HiPoint) Model JPC, .40 caliber pistol that he used during a shootout near the corner of Hickory and South Columbia Streets in Bogalusa. Brown was again found to be in possession of a gun on December 27, 2021, when police discovered a Smith & Wesson Model SW9VE, 9 millimeter pistol under the driver’s seat in the vehicle Brown was driving.

The maximum punishment Brown faces for each offense is ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

This case was investigated by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys J. Benjamin Myers and Maurice Landrieu.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 27-28, 2022

Raven Blackburn (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $1834.00 bond.

Tiffany Knight (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Osric Hines (age 44 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Ran Stop Sign (3 counts), Resisting an Officer, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering (2 counts), Driving Under Suspension, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $3859.00 bond.

Justin Carter (age 24 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Chad Thomas (age 52 with Sun, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Lanika Warren (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting a Police Officer with Force or Violence (3 counts), Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Slidell Man Found Guilty of Sex Crimes Against Victim Under Age 13

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Thursday, October 27, 2022, a St. Tammany Parish jury unanimously found Glenn David Mills, Jr., age 45 and of Slidell, Louisiana, guilty as charged of first-degree rape of a child under the age of thirteen and molestation of a juvenile. District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the case. Mills faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison without the benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence. He will be sentenced on January 11, 2023.

On July 10, 2019 the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office received a 9-1-1 call reporting a rape of a juvenile. An eyewitness reported that she had left four children alone with the defendant in order to run an errand. When she returned, she walked in on the defendant, in the bathroom, forcing the special needs victim to perform oral sex. She let officers know that she’d recorded her confrontation with the defendant and had also received text messages from him after the incident. The defendant had fled the scene but was later arrested in Jefferson Parish.

Prior to trial, the Judge had ruled that the victim did not have the mental capacity to testify on her own behalf.

At trial, the eyewitness, along with two other family members, provided corroborating testimony.

The State presented the video recordings and text messages. The defendant was heard saying: “I’m mad at my [expletive] self;” “I let that happen just now;” “I don’t know what the [expletive] I was thinking. It was stupid;” “Wow, I just threw my whole [expletive] life away;” and “I’ve never done anything like this before.” The video showed the victim in the room, holding her baby doll.

Text messages from the defendant revealed the defendant saying, “Hope you can forgive me” and “you have every right to be angry.”

In closing, Assistant District Attorney Taylor Nicholson told the jury, “We can hold him accountable, we can protect those who can’t protect themselves.”

The defense claimed that the defendant was “set up” by the eyewitness and that the victim was “used as the weapon” as she couldn’t deny or prove the incident. Assistant District Attorney Zachary Popovich refuted this statement with regard to the eyewitness, “people don’t lie to make their lives harder!” He said, “After three years this witness has been consistent in her story from the 9-1-1 call up to her testimony at trial. This would not be possible if it were not the truth.”

ADA Popovich addressed the jury, “You can speak for this victim. This trial isn’t going to wipe away the pain, humiliation and brokenness of this family, nor will it give the victim back her innocence, but your decision to find this man guilty as charged, will provide them with justice.”

Assistant District Attorneys Zachary Popovich and Taylor Nicholson prosecuted the case. The investigation was handled by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Obituary

Elowese Thomas Wood

May 18, 1924 - October 27, 2022

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Eastern Caribbean – Still don't know what it will do

A broad area of low pressure remains over the eastern Caribbean Sea. Environmental conditions are forecast to be conducive for gradual development over the next few days, and a tropical depression is likely to form by early next week while the disturbance moves slowly westward or west-northwestward over the central Caribbean Sea. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...50 percent and formation chance through 5 days...high...70 percent.

Disturbance 2. Western Atlantic – No threat to our area

A low pressure area is located about 150 miles west-northwest of Bermuda. Upper-level winds are forecast to increase over the system later today and tonight, and further development is not anticipated after that time. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...20 percent.



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)

October 28, 2022

Obituary

Jo Jane Bond Magee Kern

December 8, 1928 - October 22, 2022

Bogalusa Mayor Urges LHSAA to Reconsider Moving Football Game

Bogalusa Mayor Wendy Perrette this morning (October 28, 2022) sent a letter to Eddie Bonine, executive director of the Louisiana High School Athletic Association (LHSAA), urging him to reverse the Association’s decision to move next week’s Bogalusa High School football game and offering to pay for additional security if that would satisfy the LHSAA’s concerns. 

Click here for more in a story by Fox 8 News

Click here and click here for previous related stories.

The full text of Mayor Perrette's letter is below.

As mayor, as a citizen, and as a graduate of Bogalusa High School, I implore you to reconsider the LHSAA’s decision to prevent Bogalusa High School’s football team from completing its season on its home field next week.

I am certainly aware of the gunfire that occurred at the BHS stadium on Oct. 14; I was in the stands when it happened, celebrating Homecoming at my alma mater. I am also very aware that the perpetrators of this horrible crime were not from Bogalusa, but had brought their criminal behavior to our community from elsewhere. 

Since becoming mayor eight years ago, I have worked hard to improve and expand our Police Department, giving them all the tools they need. We work intimately with the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and recently joined a multi-agency Violent Crime Task Force. Contrary to what you may have been told, Bogalusa is not in the midst of a crime wave. Violent crime has increased this year, yes – as it has in almost every city throughout the nation. We are working hard not only to apprehend wrongdoers, but to prevent crime from occurring.

If it would satisfy LHSAA, we will add additional security to our already-enhanced force for game night. I’ll pay for it myself, if I need to. 

Please allow the students of BHS to end their season on a high note – and at home!

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Eastern Caribbean – We'll wait and see

A broad area of low pressure is over the southeastern Caribbean Sea. Environmental conditions are forecast to be conducive for gradual development over the next few days, and a tropical depression is likely to form this weekend or early next week while the disturbance moves slowly westward or west-northwestward over the central Caribbean Sea. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 5 days...high...70 percent.

Disturbance 2. Southwestern Atlantic – No threat to our area

A broad area of low pressure extends from near Bermuda southward over the western Atlantic for several hundred miles. Environmental conditions are forecast to be only marginally conducive for any development. By late Saturday, upper-level winds are forecast to become even less favorable for development, and the low is expected to begin interacting with an approaching frontal system. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...20 percent.



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)

October 27, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 26, 2022

Alexandre Easley (age 33 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Obstructing
Public Passage(s), Possession of Drug  Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana (2nd Offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.

Reshard Chisley (age 22 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Leonard Lewis (age 49 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In From Court

Darrell Jarrell (age 54 with Alexandria, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $6500.00.

Adam Whitecotton (age 24 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, No Proof of Insurance, No Drivers License, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5075.00.

Saadiq Smith (age 22 with Mandeville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts) and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $30000.00.

Kitwana Neal (age 26 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $50.00.

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)

October 26, 2022

St. Tammany Sheriff Wins 'Whistleblower' and Termination Lawsuits

St. Tammany Sheriff Randy Smith recently reported receiving two favorable court rulings: one characterized as a “whistleblower” lawsuit filed by former Chief Deputy Fred Oswald and a second one filed by former Captain Calvin Lewis that claimed he was unlawfully terminated. 

The Oswald lawsuit was heard in District Court and on October 25, 2022, Sheriff Smith was informed of a ruling in his favor. Click here for more details from nola.com The case was dismissed. The Court apparently rejected the allegations made by Oswald, who claimed he was fired in retaliation for giving information to the District Attorney's Office about another employee. The Court determined that  there were no violations of law by Sheriff Smith. Further,  the court determined that the District Attorney’s Office was in fact provided with everything that it needed from the Sheriff’s Office in order to secure a conviction of the former STPSO employee. The District Court further concluded Sheriff Smith was well within his rights to terminate Oswald, once Sheriff Smith had determined Oswald’s service was no longer needed in his administration. “Fred Oswald is but another example of an individual from the prior corrupt administration who was lawfully terminated and rather than accept that decision, he, like Calvin Lewis, chose to file a frivolous lawsuit and waste the taxpayers’ money,” Sheriff Smith said. 

The Lewis lawsuit was heard earlier this month by the Court of Appeal who upheld a lower court’s ruling in favor of the agency. Click here for more details from nola.com Calvin Lewis, a former captain with the agency, was terminated in May 2017 following an internal affairs investigation which confirmed he had violated agency policy. In May 2018, Lewis filed suit against Sheriff Smith and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office for wrongful termination. The Court of Appeal ruled October 19, 2022 to uphold the August 2019 ruling made by U.S. District Judge Barry Ashen, that Sheriff Smith’s decision to terminate Lewis was a lawful exercise of his discretion to make personnel decisions that uphold the integrity of his agency. “Mr. Lewis was knowingly in violation of St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office policy, and he was thus lawfully terminated,” Sheriff Smith said. “It is my belief that all members of law enforcement must be held to a higher standard to maintain public trust and agency integrity.”

“Fortunately, both of these lawsuits were rejected and dismissed by the courts at the plaintiffs’ costs.” “I will never stop fighting against those who wish to drag the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office back to the way things used to be,” Sheriff Smith added.

Former St. Tammany Priest Arrested Again

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office has advised that Patrick Wattigny, a former priest has been arrested on an additional charge for molestation after a second victim came forward in St. Tammany Parish.

In October 2020, Patrick Wattigny was arrested on molestation charges after it was learned he had sexually abused a minor in 2013 while serving as pastor of a Slidell-area church. Click here for the previous stories

In August 2022, a second victim contacted the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and disclosed sexual abuse at the hands of Wattigny. The victim, who is an adult now, disclosed that he was abused by Wattigny while he was a elementary student at a Covington-area Catholic school.

Following an investigation, a warrant was issued for the arrest of Wattigny and he was booked Tuesday (October 25, 2022) into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for one count of Molestation of a Juvenile. 

“It is deeply disturbing when an individual in a position of authority uses that position to prey on the most defenseless of our population – our children,” Sheriff Randy Smith said.

Bogalusa Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Sexual Assault of Victim Under 13

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Monday (October 24, 2022), Gary Wayne Dyson, age 48 and of Bogalusa, Louisiana, pled guilty to sexual battery of a child under 13, molestation of a juvenile, sexual battery and oral sexual battery. District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the case. Dyson was sentenced to 40 years in prison without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. The victim and her mother were in support of the plea terms and were present for the plea. Both gave victim impact statements to the court.

On September 23, 2019, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office was called to the victim’s home. The mother of the victim had been alerted that the defendant, her boyfriend, had possibly sexually abused juvenile family members in the past. The juvenile victim in this case was asked if the defendant had molested her and she admitted that he’d been abusing her for several years, starting when the victim was approximately nine years old.

During the police investigation, the defendant confessed to engaging in sexual acts with the victim but attempted to claim the victim had initiated them. Following publicity of the defendant’s crime, several other victims contacted police to disclose they, too, had been sexually abused by the defendant many years ago.

Assistant District Attorneys Luke Lancaster and Ian Dover prosecuted the case. The case was investigated by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 25, 2022

David Colley (age 46 with Mandeville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Zachary Garrett (age 20 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Tampering With Sign Identifying a Firearm Free Zone, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Caden Allen (age 18 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, and License Plate/Improper Lighting by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tyler Hart (age 29 with Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Bryan Schexnider (age 38 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear, Contempt of Court, Hunt Deer in Closed Season (4 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (3 counts), Hunting by Ilegal Methods (3 counts), Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tasha Rowell (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd + Offense), Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Obituary

LaRhonda M. St. Amant

January 12, 1973 - October 13, 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.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Eastern Caribbean - ???

An area of low pressure could form over the eastern Caribbean Sea this weekend. Environmental conditions are forecast to be conducive for gradual development as the disturbance moves generally westward or west-northwestward into the central Caribbean early next week. Formation chance through 48  hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...30 percent.

Disturbance 2. Southwestern Atlantic – No threat to our area

A trough of low pressure stretches from the central Caribbean northward to the southwestern Atlantic. Environmental conditions appear conducive for some gradual subtropical development of this system over the next few days while it drifts northward. The system is then forecast to meander over the subtropical western Atlantic to the west or southwest of Bermuda. Upper-level winds are forecast to become less conducive for development by the end of the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...30 percent.


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)

October 25, 2022

Obituary

Gail Marie Slaven

January 3, 1971 - October 24, 2022

Obituary

Kenneth James Rodrigue

January 2, 1960 - October 23, 2022

Suspicious Couple Arrested at Cemetery

Late Monday (October 24, 2022) evening, a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a report of a suspicious couple sitting inside a vehicle at a cemetery on Thigpen Road. When the deputy arrived at the scene, he discovered Douglas Earl Demmons (age 35 and a resident of Thigpen Road) and Jessica Strain (age 33 and who has a Franklinton address). The deputy removed both individuals from the vehicle and began an investigation into their activities.

It was determined that Demmons had two warrants for domestic abuse battery. He was arrested on those warrants plus illegal drugs which were found in the vehicle and claimed by Demmons. He has previous arrests in Washington Parish for distribution of illegal drugs and other charges. Strain was arrested for possession of methamphetamine and marijuana.

The bond for Demmons was set at $11,000. Strain’s bond was set at $5,000 and she was bonded out of jail on October 25, 2022.

“Obviously, there was not a funeral in progress at that time of night,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “Demmons and Strain picked the wrong place to rendezvous, not thinking that an alert citizen would spot and report them. This is a good example to all Washington Parish residents. If you see suspicious activity, call and let us know. We will respond.”

Obituary

Lillian T. Davis

January 23, 1936 - October 19, 2022

Deputies Find Naked Man in Recliner – BUT IT WAS NOT HIS RESIDENCE

On Monday (October 24, 2022), a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputy responded to a complaint on Reid Pigott Road concerning a suspicious man carrying a large stick who was walking in and out of a yard and then into adjacent woods. When the deputy arrived on the scene, he was unable to locate the man but was asked to check a nearby residence.

Arriving at the residence, the deputy found the door unlocked. He announced his presence and entered the residence to make certain all was okay. Once inside the residence, he encountered a naked man sitting in a recliner. The man claimed he was renting the residence. A check with the homeowner, who was enroute to the scene, determined this was not true. A check with the complainant indicated this was the man who previously was walking in and out of another yard.

Jessie Patterson, age 50 and a resident of Avenue J in Bogalusa, was taken into custody and transported to the Washington Parish Jail. Once at the jail, Patterson refused to exit the deputy’s vehicle. Another patrol deputy and corrections deputies were able to remove him and escort him into the jail where he was booked on charges of simple burglary, prohibited acts and resisting an officer. His bond was set at $25,000.

Patterson has previous stays in the Washington Parish Jail in 2008, 2016, 2021 and earlier in 2022. Charges included domestic violence, criminal neglect of family, theft of a motor vehicle, resisting an officer and other offenses.

“Mr. Patterson was far too comfortable in another person’s residence,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “I’m glad our officer was able to clothe him before transporting him to jail. After already making one unwise decision to force his way into a residence, Patterson made another unwise decision by refusing to exit the deputy’s vehicle and walk into the jail like a man. Our deputies persuaded him otherwise. Welcome to the Washington Parish Jail, Mr. Patterson.”

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 24, 2022

Jonathan Williams (age 34 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (3 counts), Contempt of Court, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Expired License Plate, and License Plate/Improper Display by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3400.00.

Christopher Traylor (age 28 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Stolen Things 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Howard Roberts (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $750.00.

Jessie Patterson (age 50 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II Drugs, and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $25000.00.

Jessica Strain (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Douglas Demmons (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts), Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $11000.00.

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.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Eastern Caribbean - Who knows?

An area of low pressure could form over the eastern Caribbean Sea by early this weekend. Environmental conditions are forecast to be conducive for gradual development as the low drifts westward or west-northwestward over the eastern Caribbean this weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...20 percent.

Disturbance 2. Southwestern Atlantic - No threat to our area

An area of low pressure is expected to form midway between Puerto Rico and Bermuda in a couple of days. Thereafter, environmental conditions appear conducive for gradual subtropical development of this system while it meanders over the southwestern Atlantic through the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...30 percent.

Disturbance 3. Northwestern Atlantic - No threat to our area

A well-defined area of low pressure is located just west-northwest of Bermuda. Environmental conditions are becoming less conducive for development, and the chance of this system becoming a short-lived tropical depression appears to be decreasing. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...40 percent and formation chance through 5 days...medium...40 percent.



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)

October 24, 2022

Obituary

Steven Dong

January 22, 2003 - October 21, 2022

Sheriff Seal Reports Only Five Arrests At Washington Parish Fair

The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office reports that only five arrests were made last week at the Washington Parish Fair in Franklinton. 

On Saturday (October 22, 2022), deputies arrested Anthony Jerome Turner, age 20 and a resident of Hickory Avenue in Bogalusa, and booked him into the Washington Parish Jail on a charge of carrying a concealed weapon. Turner was discovered with a 9 mm semi-automatic pistol concealed in his waistband. Turner was released on October 23 after posting a $7,500 bond.

Also on Saturday, a juvenile also was arrested on on a charge of carrying a concealed pistol. Due to his juvenile status, his name and address cannot be released.

On Sunday (October 23, 2022), deputies arrested three persons involved in the same incident.

  • Jeremy Dickerson, age 21 and a resident of Yvonne Street in Franklinton, was charged with possession with intent to distribute illegal drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled dangerous substance with a weapon present. He remains in jail with his bond set at $10,000.
  • Lamarius Zyshon Lowon, age 23 and a resident of Desmare Street in Franklinto, was charged with possession with intent to distribute illegal drugs and contempt of court. He remains in jail with his bond set at $5,000.
  • Jasmine Dykes age 30 and a resident of Greenlaw Street in Franklinton, was charged with possession with intent to distribute illegal drugs, possession of illegal drugs and contempt of court. She remains in jail with her bond set at $7,500.

“All in all, it was a relatively quiet Fair,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “It was so good to see families enjoying this wonderful annual event. I applaud all the volunteers who spent countless hours making our Fair a success.”

Obituary

George Elbert Cromer, Jr.

November 8, 1930 - October 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.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 22-23, 2022

Jewel Nozares (age 55 with Killeen, Tx. address) was booked on the charge of Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $1500.00.

Toby Mizell (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Aggravated Assault with a Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Nathaniel Jarrell (age 26 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $1500.00 bond.

Michael Polk (age 40 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Negligent Vehicular Injuring (2 counts), and Proper Equipment Required on Vehicles by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Jeremy Dickerson (age 21 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of CDS with Weapon Present by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Lamarius Lowe (age 23 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs/Principle and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Jasmine Dykes (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs/Principle, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Lane Moore (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Billy Gay (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted Simple Burglary, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Ashley Taylor (age 29 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Southwestern Atlantic - No threat to our area

An area of low pressure is expected to form north of Puerto Rico over the southwestern Atlantic in a few days.  Thereafter,  environmental conditions appear conducive for some subtropical development of this system while it meanders over the southwestern Atlantic through the early part of the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...20 percent.

Disturbance 2. Central Subtropical Atlantic - No threat to our area

A trough of low pressure is located around 200 miles east of Bermuda.  Environmental conditions are only marginally conducive for some tropical or subtropical development of this system over the next day or so while it generally moves westward, passing near Bermuda later today and tonight.  Afterward, the system is forecast to turn northward toward cooler waters and less favorable upper-level winds over the northwestern Atlantic, and further development is not anticipated by that time. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 5 days...low...10 percent.



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)

October 22, 2022

Obituary

Joe E. Dunaway

March 6, 1943 - October 21, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 21, 2022

Welton Manning (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Jared Newcomb (age 39 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation and Aggravated Domestic Violence Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Carey Williams (age 23 with 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.

Obituary

Charles "Chuck" Lester Holden

March 29, 1952 - October 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)

October 21, 2022

Driver Killed in Washington Parish Crash

Friday (October 21, 2022) morning, shortly before 2:45 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 16 near LA Hwy 25 in Washington Parish (south of Franklinton). The crash claimed the life of an unidentified driver.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as the driver was westbound on LA Hwy 16 in a 2015 Ford F-150. For reasons still under investigation, the Ford traveled off of the roadway to the right. After leaving the roadway, the Ford struck a tree and then became fully engulfed in flames.

Restraint use is unknown due to the severe damage to the vehicle. The driver was pronounced deceased on the scene. Impairment on the part of driver is unknown and this crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while in a motor vehicle. Never drive impaired, fatigued or distracted, follow all traffic laws and always ensure every occupant is properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions such as these can often mean the difference between life and death.

Obituary

Dakota Allen Morris

March 8, 2001 - October 13, 2022

Obituary

Curley Murphy

December 5, 1937 - October 19, 2022

Early Voting and Other Important Upcoming Election Information

November 8, 2022 Primary Election Information:

  • Early voting is Oct. 25 through Nov. 1 (excluding Sunday, Oct. 30) from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m. 
  • Early voting locations in Washington Parish are Washington Parish Courthouse in Franklinton and Northshore Technical College in Bogalusa. Click here for early voting locations in all parishes
  • The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Nov. 4 by 4:30 p.m. (other than military and overseas voters). You can request an absentee ballot online through the Voter Portal or in writing through your Registrar of Voters Office.
  • The deadline for a registrar of voters to receive a voted absentee ballot is Nov. 7 by 4:30 p.m. (other than military and overseas voters).
  • On election day, the polls are open from 6 a.m.-8 p.m.

When you go to the polls to cast your vote in an election, be sure to take one of the following: a driver's license, a Louisiana Special ID, LA Wallet digital driver's license, a United States military identification card that contains the applicant's name and picture, or some other generally recognized picture ID that contains your name and signature. Voters who have no picture ID may complete and sign a Voter Identification Affidavit in order to vote; however, it is subject to challenge by law.

Click here for your Sample Ballot. You will need to enter your Parish and then your Ward and Precinct. 

Constitutional Amendments (vote YES or NO) on the ballot are:

  • CA No. 1 (ACT 130, 2021 - HB 154) - Modifies the maximum amount of monies in certain state funds that may be invested in equities. Do you support an amendment to increase to 65% the cap on the amount of monies in certain state funds that may be invested in stocks?

  • CA No. 2 (ACT 172, 2022 - HB 599) - Expands property tax exemptions for homestead exemption property for veterans with disabilities. Do you support an amendment to expand certain property tax exemptions for property on which the homestead exemption is claimed for certain veterans with disabilities?
  • CA No. 3 (ACT 156, 2021 - HB 315) - Allows classified civil service employees to support election of family members to public office. Do you support an amendment to allow classified civil service employees to support the election to public office of members of their own families?
  • CA No. 4 (ACT 155, 2021 - HB 59) - Authorizes a political subdivision to waive charges for water under certain circumstances. Do you support an amendment to allow local governments to waive water charges that are the result of damage to the water system not caused by the customer? 
  • CA No. 5 (ACT 133, 2021 - SB 154) - Provides relative to property tax millage rate adjustments and maximum authorized millage rates. Do you support an amendment to allow the levying of a lower millage rate by a local taxing authority while maintaining the authority's ability to adjust to the current authorized millage rate?
  • CA No. 6 (ACT 129, 2021 - HB 143) - Limits the increase in assessed value of certain property following reappraisal in Orleans Parish. Do you support an amendment to limit the amount of an increase in the assessed value of residential property subject to the homestead exemption in Orleans Parish following reappraisal at ten percent of the property's assessed value in the previous year? 
  • CA No. 7 (ACT 246, 2022 - HB 298) - Provides relative to the prohibition of involuntary servitude and administration of criminal justice. Do you support an amendment to prohibit the use of involuntary servitude except as it applies to the otherwise lawful administration of criminal justice?
  • CA No. 8 (ACT 171, 2022 - HB 395) - Removes requirement of annual certification of income for certain eligible disabled homeowners. Do you support an amendment to remove the requirement that homeowners who are permanently totally disabled must annually re-certify their income to keep their special assessment level on their residences for property tax purposes?

December 10, 2022 General Election Information: 

  • The deadline to register to vote in person, by mail or at the OMV Office is Nov. 9.    
  • The deadline to register to vote through the GeauxVote Online Registration System is Nov. 19.
  • Early voting is Nov. 26 through Dec. 3 (excluding Sunday, Nov. 27) from 8:30 a.m.-6 p.m.
  • The deadline to request an absentee ballot is Dec. 6 by 4:30 p.m. (other than military and overseas voters). You can request an absentee ballot online through Voter Portal or in writing through your Registrar of Voters Office.
  • The deadline for a registrar of voters to receive a voted absentee ballot is Dec. 9 by 4:30 p.m. (other than military and overseas voters).
  • On election day, the polls are open from 7 a.m.-8 p.m.

Sample Ballot information for the December 10, 2022 General Election is not available at this time. We will post the information when it becomes available.

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.