Slidell Ice Cream Truck Owner Arrested for Possessing Meth

Shortly after 11:30am on Tuesday (February 27, 2023), Slidell Police narcotics detectives observed a blue-colored ice cream truck with an expired license plate and no brake lights on Old Spanish Trail. This ice cream truck was of particular interest to detectives due to previously receiving information that the owner was allegedly using and selling meth from the truck.

Detectives conducted a traffic stop and discovered more than just ice cream. Upon searching the truck, detectives located melted ice cream in the freezer, methamphetamine and other drug paraphernalia. The owner, 42-year-old, Tamisha Morin, was placed under arrest for possession of the narcotics, an outstanding
warrant, and multiple traffic violations. Morin was transported to the Slidell City Jail, and her ice cream truck, “Tami’s Ice Cream & Sweet Treats”, was impounded.

Detectives also located two small puppies inside the ice cream truck. Both puppies are now safe at Slidell Animal Control. 

At this point of the investigation, Slidell Police don’t believe any children were exposed to meth, as the ice cream truck has been out of commission for several months. 

Obituary

Genevieve "Geneva" DiCarlo Levy

March 5, 1930 - February 22, 2023

Obituary

Edith Vala Oliver Crain

November 24, 1935 - February 27, 2023

Motorcyclist Killed in Tangipahoa Parish Crash

On February 26, shortly after 3:00 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a two vehicle fatal crash on Interstate 12 near LA Hwy 445 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 39-year-old Joseph Boggs Jr. of Covington.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as a 2023 Kawasaki motorcycle, driven by Boggs, was westbound in the right lane of Interstate 12. At the same time, a 2021 Volvo 18-wheeler was also westbound in the right lane of Interstate 12 ahead of the Kawasaki. For reasons still under investigation, the Kawasaki impacted the rear of the Volvo’s trailer. After impact, the Kawasaki traveled off the roadway to the right.

Although wearing a DOT approved helmet, Boggs suffered severe injuries as a result of the crash. He was transported to a local hospital where he ultimately succumbed to his injuries. A passenger on the Kawasaki, also wearing a DOT approved helmet, suffered serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital. The driver of the Volvo was properly restrained and was uninjured. Routine toxicology samples were collected from both drivers for analysis. Speed is suspected to be a contributing factor in this crash and the investigation is ongoing.

Troopers wish to remind motorists to always make good decisions while operating a motor vehicle. Making good choices while riding a motorcycle, such as never driving while impaired and obeying all traffic laws, can often mean the difference between life and death. Troopers also encourage all riders to take an approved motorcycle safety course. These courses teach safe riding practices and help you apply safe riding strategies that can help reduce your chance of injury should a crash occur.

988 Hotline Announced

In Partnership Coalition with ADAPT, the Bogalusa Police Department announces the implementation of the 988 hotline. If you are having suicidal thoughts, the Bogalusa Police Department asks that you call 988 or 1-800-273-8255 and speak with someone on the Suicide Prevention Hotline. 

Also, if you have been a victim of a sexual assault, the Washington Parish Sexual Assault Crisis Center offers a 24 hour crisis line (985-732-4961). 

Obituary

Mildred Annette Jenkins

November 18, 1946 - February 23, 2023

Malinda Brumfield White Announces Candidacy for Washington Parish President

State Rep Malinda Brumfield White has announced her candidacy for Washington Parish President in
the October 14, 2023 election. She issued the following statement: 

"For the last seven years, I've brought our values to Baton Rouge: hard work, loving our neighbors as ourselves, and authentic integrity. But long before that, I showed I am a leader you can trust. 

I fought for smart policies that bring a return on investment and decrease government overreach. But my service to our people has been a lifelong passion. I have served our families and delivered on long-awaited infrastructure projects like Highway 3241 and state funding for vital priorities like healthcare, education, and public safety. I'm so proud of what I've accomplished to bring needed supports for working families in our Parish including the early childcare center in Thomas, more than $11 million in investments in Northshore Technical College expansion, historic educator pay raises, and supports for public employees. 

All this prepared me to come home to finish so much of what I've had the honor to start while representing our people at the state level. Our Parish is set up to be the next leg of an expanding economic corridor that has brought economic prosperity to neighboring parishes. And now, we are on the precipice of big decisions that will determine our role in the local, state, and world economy for the next generation. 

I've proven that I can take what is best about our communities and open our doors to the world through my role as a legislator and non-profit leader. I've worked across party lines to address crime, the opioid crisis, industrial and agricultural policy challenges, protect our constitutional rights, and more. People say I 'get it done.' And they're right. I'm incredibly proud to enter this race, and I'll make you proud as I earn your vote and serve your families as our next Parish President." 

The office of Washington Parish President will be an open seat this fall. 

Learn more at https://www.malindawhite.com/news

Obituary

Jessie Mae Alford

January 26, 1933 - February 15, 2023

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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WPSS is Hiring!

Go to www.wpsb.org/careers for much more

WPSS Invites Homeschool Students to Participate in LEAP

Obituary

Brian Keith Anglin

January 2, 1969 - February 4, 2023

Obituary

Edna Ozile Bookter Talley

May 18, 1947 - February 25, 2023

Obituary

Anna Odom McElveen

June 12, 1955 - February 24, 2023

Obituary

Charles "Chucky" Corrente, Jr.

April 30, 1970 - February 18, 2023

LSU AgCenter Offers Lawn Care Class

The LSU AgCenter will offer a Lawn Care in Louisiana class on Tuesday, March 14, 2023, from 6:00 to 7:30 PM at LSU AgCenter’s Washington Parish office in Franklinton (1104-B Bene St.). 

Horticulture Agent Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson will cover topics such as choosing and establishing turf grasses; fertilizing lawns; and managing common weeds, insects, and diseases of turf. 

Please RSVP to Mary Helen (mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu, 985-277-1850 [Hammond], or 985-839-7855 [Franklinton]) if you plan to attend. For accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact her at least one week before the event. 

The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.

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Washington Parish Jail Bookings for February 25, 2023

Reinaldo Williams (age 34 with Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted Second Degree Battery, Resisting an Officer, and False Imprisonment by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

James Sumrall (age 57 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Comply/Address Change by the Washington Paish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Alexis Abbott (age 23 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Heroin by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Damon Brown (age 49 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Terrorizing, and Attempted Home Invasion by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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Obituary

Sue Gentry Gill

October 4, 1943 - February 24, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for February 23-24, 2023

Christina Knight (age 32 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 25,000 or More by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Albert Shoemaker (age 39 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts), Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Simple Arson by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jenny Moreno (age 48 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Battery of a Dating Partner and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Derion Clark (age 29 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Entry/Remain on Premises After Being Forbidden and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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Missing 16 Year-Old From Kentwood

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office is asking for the public's assistance in locating 16 year-old Sue Ann Williams.

Chief Jimmy Travis says Williams was last seen around 8:00 pm in Kentwood, Louisiana on February 13, 2023. Williams was last seen wearing a brown sweater, dark blue jeans and pink and white tennis shoes. Williams is 5' 2" and approximately 110 pounds.

Chief Travis asks anyone with any information regarding the whereabouts of Williams to please contact the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office at 985-345-6150.

Obituary

Margaret Rose Hill

March 21, 1944 - February 22, 2023

The Bogalusa Council Meeting of February 23, 2023

The Bogalusa Council meeting Thursday (February 23, 2023) evening addressed a full Agenda,
approved three resolutions, tabled two ordinances regarding contracts, approved a curfew ordinance, introduced one ordinance, heard an announcement from the Mayor (going to D.C.), heard a report on a "successful and safe Mardi Gras", and heard comments and concerns from the public. 

Scroll down for the video.

The meeting began with recognition by Mayor Tyrin Truong of Will Branch for his contributions to the City of Bogalusa. See the video beginning at 3:40.

The Council then approved three resolutions (see the video beginning at 6:40): the first, to adopt Procurement Policy for the City of Bogalusa relative to Louisiana Community Development Block Grants; the second, to award the Louisiana Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus (LCDBG-CV) Love Louisiana Outdoors Program Project; and the third, authorizing the Mayor to apply and administer the USDA Rural Business Development Grant. 

The Council introduced an ordinance authorizing the Mayor to enter into a lease agreement with Washington Parish Council on Aging. This ordinance will be up for a Public Hearing and vote at the next meeting on March 7, 2023.

The Council held Public Hearings on three previously introduced ordinances:

First, an ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into a contract with Deborah Cunningham Foshee to “provide operational assistance to the City of Bogalusa pending the appointment of a permanent City Administrator”. After a presentation by Foshee (who has been providing services on a volunteer basis pending approval of the contract) and much discussion, the Council voted to table the ordinance. After the vote to table the ordinance, the Mayor commented on how Foshee has “really helped us out a lot” and encouraged the Council to bring the matter back up and approve the ordinance. Council members continued to comment on the matter. See the video beginning at 16:25 and ending at 34:00.

Second, an ordinance authorizing the mayor to enter into a contract with Asecureo, Inc., a forensic accounting and compliance review firm. After a question about the need for the firm's services and a presentation by Asecureo's Dartanian Sanders (who has been providing services on a volunteer basis pending approval of the contract) and much discussion, the Council voted to table the ordinance. See the video beginning at 34:00 and ending at 45:40.

Third, an ordinance authorizing the Bogalusa Police Department to enforce a curfew law for minors by amending and restating Section 11-55 of the Bogalusa Code of Ordinances to provide penalties and enforcement. The penalty provisions state that a minor in violation will be found to be “in need of supervision” as defined in La. C.J.P Art 13 (13), the minor in violation must complete up to 360 hours of community service hours and the custodial parent(s) must participate with his/her child in completing the community service requirement, and fines. After much discussion, the Council unanimously approved the ordinance. See the video beginning at 45:45.

During Administrative Remarks, 

• the Mayor made his nominations for the Parks and Recreation Commission (all approved by the Council), See the video beginning at 1:01:10. 
• The Mayor and Assistant Chief Tervalon reported on “a successful and safe Mardi Gras”. See the video beginning at 1:32:00.
• The Mayor referred to alleged misappropriations of the prior administration and his referrals to the proper authorities. See the video beginning at 1:34:00.
• The Mayor reported on invitations to Washington D.C. See the video beginning at 1:35:40. One was from Vice President Harris and a second by email from the White House. (The Mayor posted on Facebook yesterday, "Vice President Kamala Harris will be honoring me and other young leaders next week in DC for fighting to make the world a better place. People all across the country know about that “23 year old mayor in Bogalusa, Louisiana!” Bogalusa, it’s OUR time!"

Following Council Comments, the meeting adjourned. The next Council Meeting will be held Tuesday, March 7, 2023 at 5:30 P.M.

Bogalusa Council 02232023.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

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Joint Operation in Bogalusa Makes a Dent in Crime

During the weeks of February 6, 2023 until February 16, 2023, the Bogalusa Police Department and the Washington Parish Sheriffs Office joined forces in an effort to discourage criminal activity inside the city limits of Bogalusa.

Officers worked heavily on high crime areas and were able to put a small dent in crime. The following results were reported:

• Arrests - 24
• Firearms Seized - 27
• Heroin Seized - 5.24 OZ
• Cocaine Seized - 1.6 OZ
• Fentanly Seized - 10.4 OZ
• Methamphetamine Seized - 12.4 OZ
• Marijuana Seized - 6 OZ
• MDMA Seized - 21 pills
• Illegal Pills Seized - 92
• U.S. Currency Seized $5,268.00
• Vehicles Seized - 1

The Bogalusa Police Department and the Washington Parish Sheriffs Office are committed to the safety of all our residents. If anyone knows of any illegal activity, you can report it to the Bogalusa Police Department at 985-732-3611

Obituary

Sherrie Ann Snow Magruder

August 12, 1961 - February 22, 2023

Obituary

Brenda Joyce Stokes

December 25, 1942 - February 21, 2023

Obituary

Cassandra Ann Magee-Taylor

July 14, 1968 - February 14, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for February 21-22, 2023

Kristien Copeland (age 34 with Bush, La. address) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating
Partner by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Shon Polk (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Agg Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Kimberly Truitt (age 29 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Hunter Coats (age 29 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Illegal Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Rance Gill (age 57 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Reinaldo Williams (age 34 with Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Assault (2 counts), Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Possession of Marijuana by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Washington Parish School System is Hiring

Click here to view open positions and to apply

Obituary

Mary Helen Williams

March 25, 1934 - February 18, 2023

TPSO Reports 11 Arrested – Over 160 Cell Phones Recovered

In an update to our previous story, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office reported an update yesterday (February 21, 2023) that a total of eleven (11) arrests have been made in a pick-pocketing scheme during Mardi Gras. Over 160 cell phones have been recovered. 

On February 19, 2023, TPSO Chief Jimmy Travis reported the arrest of 24 year-old Geinier Acevebo-Jimenez, 26 year-old Jean Paul Sabogal-Angortia, 31 year-old Bridgette Solorzano-Rodriguez, and 36 year-old Yudi Tatiana Solorzano Sanchez on the charge of Possession of Stolen Property. Initially, Chief Travis was contacted on February 18, 2023 regarding a stolen cell phone that was traced to an AirB&B in the Tickfaw area. Chief Travis, along with patrol deputies and detectives responded to the residence and, after conducting initial interviews with the subjects, was able to secure a search warrant for the home. Forty (40) iPhones were recovered from a backpack along with various credit and debit cards, identification cards, and other items. 

As the investigation continued, detectives learned the subjects were not acting alone. On February 20, 2023, a search warrant was obtained and executed on a second apartment in the same Tickfaw rental complex. Seven (7) more subjects were arrested and one hundred and twenty-two (122) additional cell phones were recovered. Arrested were 30 year-old Kely Yojana Forero-Mendoza, 24 year-old Paula Daniela Canaria-Villamil, 33 year-old Paola Fernanda Consuegra-Gavlis, 30 year-old Jhon Alexander Flores-Munoz, 26 year-old Yuli Oney Gutierrez, 31 year-old Ronald Steven Carvajal, and 47 year-old Jorge Jimenez. 

Authorities with federal agencies have indicated all persons arrested are members or associates of a large Colombian theft ring that’s operating in the United States. Additionally, one male subject is currently being sought by Immigration and Customs Enforcement for deportation.

Detectives are working to catalog a significant amount of evidence seized from the two operations.

To report a stolen cell phone, please visit www.tpso.org and click on “Report Stolen Cell Phone” from the home page. The information collected is directly routed to the TPSO Cyber Crimes Unit.

***all subjects are considered innocent until proven guilty by a court of law***

Obituary

Joseph "Joe" Juneau, Jr.

August 26, 1950 - February 19, 2023

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Obituary

Sandra Ann Stewart

August 7, 1948 - February 20, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for February 20, 2023

Brandon Quintero (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.

Ryan Rodriguez (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting Arest by Flight, Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2250.00 bond.

Keith Byais (age 58 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.

Sierra Nicholson (age 24 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $10000.00 bond.

Gary McIntyre (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Alton Fields (age 38 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting an Officer, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Proper Equipment Required, Driving Under Suspension, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Kerrie Johnson (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (4th Offense), Speed Unsafe for Road Conditions, Resisting an Officer, and No Proof of Insurance by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $30000.00.

Chavis Moses (age 32 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight From an Officer, Resisting an Officer, Aggravated Obstruction of Commerce/Roadway, Driving While Intoxicated, Driving Left of Center/Wrong Side of Hwy, Failure to Use Turn Signal, Ran Stop Sign, and Speeding 41 & More Over Limit by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $10000.00 bond.

Jermy Davenport (age 31 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule I Drugs (2 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Intentional Littering, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Failure to Appear Contempt of Court, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Marijuana by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $56500.00.

Obituary

Wanzie Graves Adams

February 27, 1945 - February 9, 2023

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. 

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Obituary

Pansy Bateman McClendon

December 2, 1932 - February 19, 2023

Obituary

Elizabeth Anders

December 25, 1931 - February 16, 2023

Obituary

Hynetia Tutti Wilson Dadzie

September 25, 1944 - February 15, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for February 18-19, 2023

Dasavion Jefferson (age 18 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute and Malfeasance in Office by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $50000.00 bond.

Sarah Sanders (age 36 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Rondarius Causey (age 32 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling and Criminal Trespass by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Zachery Taylor (age 24 with Poplarville, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Flight, Failure to Provide Proper Info, Battery of a Dating Partner, False Imprisonment, and Intimidating of a Witness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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Loranger Man Arrested in 12-year-old Murder Case

“On February 10, 2023, after almost 13-years, 30-year-old Montrey Paige, Sr. of Loranger, was taken into custody and charged with second degree murder,” reports Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office Chief Jimmy Travis. “Paige was located and taken into custody in Chambers County, Texas late last week on outstanding warrants from Louisiana,” Travis continues.

Jamins Robinson (age 22) was found deceased on the side of the road on July 25, 2010. First responding officers believed Robinson was initially left for dead after being struck by a hit and run driver on Kemp St. in Independence. At the time, the Independence Police Department was the primary agency investigating the incident, with investigators from the TPSO assisting. As the investigation progressed, it was later learned that Robinson succumbed to injuries sustained from being struck with a blunt object to the back of the head, not a hit and run accident. 

Over the years, TPSO veteran and Cold Case Detective Mike Sticker has persistently looked over the facts in this case alongside Independence Police Chief Frank Edwards III, and continued to actively work leads and interview Robinson’s friends, family, and known acquaintances. A break in the case came when Sticker identified and located an eyewitness who finally came forward with information. This information, partnered with evidence obtained throughout the investigation, led to the arrest of the accused. Although Paige was already a person of interest, it was Detective Sticker's hard work, persistence, and dedication to this investigation which led to Paige’s arrest. “This is just one example of the quality work that the men and women of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office do." Travis says.

“Although Paige’s arrest won’t bring Jamins back, we’re hoping it brings a sense of peace and closure for his family and friends.” says Travis. “Justice is finally served.”

On February 10, 2023, TPSO detectives took Paige into custody and transported him to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail where he was booked on the following charges: Second Degree Murder, Failure to Appear (3 counts), and Jumping Bail on a Felony Case.

***All persons accused of a crime are considered innocent until proven guilty***

Mardi Gras Pick-Pockets Located in Tickfaw

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriffs Office reports the arrest of four individuals after an early morning search warrant lead to the recovery of 40 iPhones, and various other objects. 

Early Saturday (February 18, 2023 morning, Chief Jimmy Travis was contacted regarding a subject who was pick-pocketed while attending Mardi Gras in New Orleans. According to the complainant, the victims cell phone was stolen from his pocket, but was able to trace the iPhone to an AirB&B in the Tickfaw area. 

Chief Travis along with patrol deputies and detectives responded to the residence and,  after conducting initial interviews with the subjects, was able to secure a search warrant for the home. Upon conducting the search warrant, 40 iPhones were recovered from a backpack along with various credit and debit cards, identification cards, and other items. It is believed the subjects flew to New Orleans from Miami to attend Mardi Gras, where they devised the pick-pocket scheme. 

Arrested for Possession of Stolen Property were 32 year-old Bridgette Solorzano Rodriguee, 36 year-old Yudi Solorzano Sanchez, 26 year-old Jean Paul Sabogal Angorita, and 24 year-old Rafael Adrien Souza. 

***All persons accused of a crime are considered innocent until proven guilty.***

Chief Travis asks that anyone who was victim of a pick-pocket in the area St Charles Avenue in New Orleans, and specifically lost an iPhone as a result, are urged to file a report with the New Orleans Police Department. 

Those attending Mardi Gras and similar events such as fairs and festivals, are always encouraged to remain aware of their surroundings. A suggestion for preventing a pick-pocket is to always keep wallets and phones in a front pants pocket rather than a back pocket while in a large crowd. 

Obituary

Edgar Louis "Jed" Jenkins, Sr.

October 21, 1944 - February 17, 2023

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Slidell Man Found Guilty of False Communication and Criminal Trespassing – Facing 20 Years to Life

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reported today (February 18, 2023) that on Wednesday (February 15, 2023) a jury found John Key Thomas, age 48 and of Slidell, guilty of false communication with intent to cause an emergency response.

On September 20, 2019, the defendant called the police and complained that his neighbor had been brandishing a rifle and had discharged multiple rounds. He claimed the neighbor returned inside his home. He said he then saw the neighbor, through a window, putting the neighbor’s wife in a headlock and holding a gun to her head. Based on this report, deputies, S.W.A.T. and a team of negotiators were called to the neighbor’s home. The defendant began inserting himself in the investigation and when asked to move from the perimeter, he became combative and refused to move. He was handcuffed for his own safety. As police tried to escort him to a patrol unit, he refused to cooperate, forcing deputies to carry him.

Officers called the neighbor on the phone and asked him to exit his residence. He was taken into custody. In his interview, the neighbor told police that the defendant’s story was not true. He said that he and the defendant had been arguing all day because the defendant had hit him with a car door, causing him to lose his balance and almost fall. The neighbor said that because of his age, declining health and physical disabilities, he felt he should arm himself. He told the defendant to leave his property or he would shoot him. The defendant left and returned with a Rottweiler.

The neighbor’s wife and another neighbor were also interviewed. The neighbor was released from custody and the defendant was arrested.

The defendant has a history of prior convictions that include: aggravated assault on a peace officer with a motor vehicle, aggravated flight from an officer, resisting an officer with force or violence, possession with the intent to distribute marijuana, battery of a police officer, aggravated assault, and multiple simple possession of drugs charges.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 7, 2023 and the defendant faces 20 years to life at hard labor.

The case was presided over by District Judge Scott Gardner and presented by Assistant District Attorneys Blake Peters and Allie Serpas.

30 Year-Old Lacombe Man Sentenced to 20 Years

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reported today (February 18, 2023) that on Monday (February 13, 2023), Wesley Dwayne Pierce, age 30 and of Lacombe, pleaded guilty to multiple open felony cases: battery of a police officer while under custody of the department of public safety and corrections, domestic abuse battery 4th offense, aggravated burglary and aggravated battery and simple possession of heroin and various other drugs. 

On Thursday (February 16, 2023), he pleaded guilty to an additional set of felony charges for introduction of contraband into the jail (heroin) and possession with the intent to distribute heroin. 

On February 16, 2023, Pierce was sentenced to 20 years in prison as to the battery of police officer, aggravated burglary/aggravated battery, and domestic abuse battery 4th offense charges. He received 10 years in prison on the introduction of contraband and possession with the intent to distribute heroin charges, and 5 years in prison on the simple possession of heroin case. All of the sentences are running concurrently.

Pierce had numerous prior convictions including domestic abuse battery by strangulation and resisting a police officer.

The cases were presided over by District Judge Scott Gardner. Assistant District Attorney Blake Peters was the prosecutor.

Obituary

Naomi Dell Rawls

September 20, 1937 - February 17, 2023

Obituary

Robert Wayne "Big Country" Polk, Jr.

September 1, 1987 - February 11, 2023

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 February 16-17, 2023

Spencer Collins (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Less Dillon (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 1st Degree Murder, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $175000.00.

Jayden Brister (age 19 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Illegal Carrying of Weapon, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs/Principle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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New Riverside Medical Center CEO Introduced at Parish Council Meeting

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (February 13, 2023) and Riverside Medical Center Board Chairwoman Tammy Magruder introduced Sean Johnson, recently appointed Chief Executive Officer, following the retirement of Peter Sullivan in January, 2023. See Magruder's introduction and Johnson's comments beginning at 3:35 into the video.

In other business, the Council 

• approved a resolution appointing Grayson Ball to the Washington Parish Riverside Hospital Board of Directors
• during the Public Participation segment of the meeting, heard from Vincent Chauvin who spoke at length  regarding improvements needed on numerous roads in the Parish
• heard reports from Parish President Richard Thomas and his staff that included important announcements of events and office closures, financial information, and work performed by parish work crews. See the video beginning at 30:20. 

Following comments from Council Members, the meeting adjourned. The next meeting will be at 5:30 PM on February 27, 2023.

WP Council 02132023.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Obituary

Christopher Brumfield

November 27, 1977 - February 12, 2023

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Three Charged in 2021 Murder of 18 Year-Old Aaron Brown in Bogalusa

On February 14, 2023, after an extensive investigation, conducted by the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division, in conjunction with the Bogalusa Police Department Criminal Investigations Division, arrests were made in the August 23, 2021 murder of 18 year old Aaron  Brown. Brown was murdered on the corner of Dan Street at the intersection of Hickory Avenue shortly after getting off of the school bus. Click here for a previous related article

Andrew Pernell, who was 18 years old, was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on the charges of First Degree Murder, Criminal Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Murder, and Fraudulent Purchase of a Firearm.

Matthew Kennedy, who was in his mid-20’s, was booked into the Washington Parish Jail on the charges of Principle to First Degree Murder, and Fraudulent Purchase of a Firearm.

A Juvenile, who was approximately 17 years old at the time of the murder was booked into the Florida Parishes Juvenile Detention Center on the charges of First Degree Murder and Criminal Conspiracy to Commit First Degree Murder.

The Bogalusa Police Department administration wishes to send condolences to the family of Aaron Brown. The Bogalusa Police Department administration also thanks detectives with the Louisiana State Police and with the Bogalusa Police C.I.D. for all the hard work and long hours put into solving this matter.