June 30, 2023

Obituary

Darleen Breland

March 17, 1941 - June 29, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Releases for June 29, 2023



Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 29, 2023

Karon Weary (age 47 with Columbia, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Racketeering,
Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, and Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics by the Louisiana State Police. Bond set at $250000.00.

Alexis Zebley (age 22 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 couns) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $25000.00.

Michael Lewis (age 34 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Bond Surrender. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Western Atlantic Ocean: A broad area of low pressure is located a couple of hundred miles to the southeast of Bermuda. Upper-level winds do not appear conducive for this system to develop into a tropical or subtropical cyclone while it moves generally north-northeastward at about 10 mph during the next couple of days. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   Sunny and hot, with a high near 100. Heat index values as high as 114. West wind around 5 mph becoming east in the afternoon.
Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 75. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Saturday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after noon. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Heat index values as high as 111. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning.
Saturday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 76. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning.
Sunday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 75. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

June 29, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Releases for June 28, 2023



Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 27-28, 2023

Vincent Ortiz (age 23 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer (2 counts), Prohibited Acts, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Drug Free Zone Violation by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kelona Neal (age 25 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on June 28, 2023.

Luther Whittine (age 65 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), and Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.

William Grande (age 60 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present and Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs. No bond set at this time.

Brittney Roberts (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.

Shelia Taylor (age 54 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Racketeering and Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics (2 counts) by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.

Melvin Fields (age 66 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Racketeering and Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.

Marisa Pam (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Racketeering and Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics (2 counts) by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.

Michael Williams (age 62 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Racketeering, Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics (2 counts), Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, and Failure to Comply/Address Change by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.

Joseph Andrade (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, License Plate Light Required, Possession of Marijuana, Failure to Appear, Contempt of Court, and Driving on the Shoulder by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. no bond set at this time.

Obituary

Jack Todd Edwards

May 25, 1967 - June 27, 2023

Franklinton Burglary-in-Progress Thwarted – 2 Juveniles Arrested

The Franklinton Police Department that a burglary in progress on Wednesday (June 28, 2023 shortly after midnight) resulted in the quick apprehension and arrests of two juvenile suspects. 

It all started as FPD Sergeant Trey Johnson was investigating a suspicious person incident, and Washington Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Blaine Polk was responding to assist. While en route, Deputy Polk observed a burglary in progress at Stop 1 Valero convenience store. Deputy Polk acted quickly to notify other officers with both agencies, and Sheriff’s Sergeant Phillip Varnado also responded to assist. 

Thanks to the efforts of WPSO Deputy Polk, WPSO Sergeant Varnado, FPD Sergeant Johnson, and FPD Captain of investigations Randall Penton, Sergeant Johnson was able to resolve the incident in a matter of hours. 

The Franklinton Police Department would like to thank Deputy Polk and Sergeant Varnado for their vigilance and assistance and to acknowledge the excellent working relationship enjoyed between the FPD and WPSO. 

4th of July in Bogalusa - Parade, Firework, and More!



Tropical Disturbances Today

Southwestern Atlantic Ocean: A surface trough is located a few hundred miles to the south-southeast of Bermuda. Upper-level winds are marginally conducive for some slow development of this system during the next few days while it moves generally northward at 5 to 10 mph. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   Sunny and hot, with a high near 100. Heat index values as high as 115. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 77. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Friday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Heat index values as high as 113. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning.
Friday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 76. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southwest after midnight.
Saturday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Southwest wind around 5 mph.
Saturday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 76. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

June 28, 2023

Obituary

Otis Archie Wallace

January 24, 1942 - June 27, 2023

State Fire Marshal: Tips on Buying and Using Fireworks

A message from Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal

With fireworks tents and stands popping up across the state this week, the State Fire Marshal’s Office wants to encourage all Louisiana residents to not only be safe when using fireworks, but knowledgeable when buying them.

More than 300 retail fireworks permits have been issued for the 2023 Fourth of July season, as it is state law for wholesale and retail fireworks business operators to be appropriately licensed by the SFM, in the parishes and municipalities where they are legally allowed. The sales season extends through 11:59 p.m. on July 5th.

The SFM encourages, first and foremost, that families choose to enjoy public fireworks displays over creating their own. However, if purchasing fireworks is your preference, we advise families to be mindful of whether the stand they are purchasing from has been permitted by this office. You can request to see permitting information from any retail fireworks business you patron. The SFM encourages reporting any suspicious or illegal sales of fireworks to 1-800-256-5452 or by visiting our website, lasfm.org.

In addition, we want everyone to enjoy fireworks in the safest way possible. A study by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) shows that more than 200 people on average go to the emergency room every day with fireworks-related injuries in the month around the July 4th holiday. To avoid becoming part of this statistic, the SFM advises:

• Detonating devices at least 200 feet away from structures, vehicles and rubbish

• Never allowing children to light fireworks; instead, provide glow sticks and trinkets as alternatives

• Never operating fireworks while impaired

• Lighting devices one at a time and monitoring embers released with a bucket of water or hose nearby

• Discarding detonated items by wetting them down to prevent reignition and not disposing of them in a trash container immediately

In addition, we encourage everyone to be mindful of the weather conditions in your area when considering whether to pop your own fireworks. Make sure you are aware of any burn bans established and take into account the dryness of your surroundings when choosing a safe location for popping fireworks.

Washington Parish Jail Releases for June 27, 2023



Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. South-Southeast of Bermuda: A surface trough, has formed about 400 miles south-southeast of Bermuda.  Upper-level winds are marginally conducive for some slow development of this system during the next few days while it moves generally northward at about 5 mph. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

Disturbance 2. South-Southwest of Bermuda (Remnants of Cindy): A weak trough of low pressure, associated with the remnants of Cindy is located about 400 miles south-southwest of Bermuda. This system is expected to drift toward the west-northwest during the next couple of days, and redevelopment is not expected due to strong upper-level winds. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...near 0 percent.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 115. West wind around 5 mph.
Tonight   A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 77. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Thursday   Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Heat index values as high as 117. West wind around 5 mph.
Thursday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 77. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Friday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. West wind around 5 mph becoming south in the afternoon.
Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 76. South wind around 5 mph.

June 27, 2023

Bogalusa Man Sentenced in Federal Court to 87 Months

U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans has announced that Carlos Walker, age 33 and a resident of Bogalusa, Louisiana, was sentenced on June 20, 2023 by United States District Judge Wendy B. Vitter to 87 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a mandatory $300.00 special assessment fee after pleading guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one count of possession with intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. 

The sentence consisted of 27 months’ imprisonment for the felon in possession and possession with intent to distribute counts and 60 months’ imprisonment for the possession in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime count, to run consecutive to the 27-month sentence.

According to court documents, on September 24, 2021, Bogalusa Police Department officers observed a black Nissan Altima with a non-functioning headlight driving in Bogalusa, Louisiana. After stopping and approaching the vehicle, the officers saw Walker in the front passenger seat kicking his legs as if he was shoving something under the seat. One of the officers recognized Walker and remembered that a warrant had been issued for his arrest. 

After the confirming the warrant, the officers arrested and searched Walker, locating approximately $4,000.00 in his pocket. Officers also saw a Taurus Model G2C, nine-millimeter handgun under the passenger seat and located a small clear wrap containing seventeen (17) grams of methamphetamine in the front passenger door pocket.  A review of Walker's  criminal record revealed that he had a prior felony drug conviction for drug and firearm violations.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Bogalusa Police Department, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.  The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.

Obituary

Percy William "Uncle Bill" Corkern

August 14, 1945 - June 23, 2023

Man Intentionally Crashed into Alabama State Trooper's Vehicle After Carjacking in Slidell

Shortly after 1:00 p.m. on Sunday (June 25, 2023) officers responded to Outback Steakhouse (830 I-10 Service Road in Slidell, Louisiana), after receiving multiple 911 calls in reference to a carjacking in-progress. When officers arrived, they were informed that a male subject, later identified as 37-year-old Tyrone Pryor of Kingsville, Texas, barged into the restaurant and snatched a kitchen knife out of an employee’s hand. Pryor began threating the employees and guests, and then ran out of the restaurant.

After exiting the restaurant, Pryor approached a red-colored 2019 Honda Accord and forced the driver out with the knife. Pryor jumped in the vehicle and fled the area.

Several hours later, Slidell Police were notified by the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) that Pryor had made his way to Alabama and intentionally crashed the stolen car into an Alabama State Trooper’s patrol vehicle. After a pursuit, Prior was taken into custody.

Investigators believe that Pryor was passing through the Slidell and had no known ties to the area.

Prior is currently being held in the Tuscaloosa County Jail where he is facing multiple charges from Alabama authorities. Prior will eventually be extradited back to Louisiana, where he will be booked into the Slidell City Jail for one count of Louisiana Revised Statue 14:64.2 Carjacking.   

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

Obituary

Bobbie Brumfield Miller

January 16, 1948 - June 26, 2023

14 Arrested (So Far) in Multi-Agency Narcotics Investigation in Bogalusa Area

In May of 2022, members of the Louisiana State Police Narcotics/Violent Crimes Task Force began investigating the illegal distribution of controlled dangerous substances throughout the Bogalusa area. The investigation led to numerous subjects being identified as members of a Drug Trafficking Organization. As part of the investigation, detectives obtained multiple search warrants and arrest warrants for Drug Racketeering and Drug Conspiracy through the 22nd Judicial District Court. 

On June 27, 2023, LSP collaborated with the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Bogalusa Police Department, the United States Department of Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Louisiana Probation and Parole, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives to execute search warrants at seven residences. 

As a result, detectives seized over $250,000 worth of luxury vehicles, over $6,000 in U.S. Currency, 7 firearms, over 10 ounces of Heroin, and various quantities of Marijuana, Crack Cocaine and Methamphetamines. Additionally, the following 13 Bogalusa residents were arrested on narcotics related charges:

  • Michael Williams, 62-years-old
  • Donelle Pigott, 58-years-old
  • James Wise, 34-years-old
  • Luther Whitten, 65-years-old
  • Parrish Holloway, 42-years-old
  • Jimell Magee, 27-years-old
  • Brandon Morris, 40-years-old
  • Stephan Pigott, 60-years-old
  • Sheila Taylor, 54-years-old
  • Michael Spikes, 45-years-old
  • Stanley Roberts, 66-years-old
  • Brittany Roberts, 44-years-old
  • Melvin Fields, 66-years-old

In conjunction with this investigation, 47-year-old Karon Weary was arrested in Columbia, MS by the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. 

This investigation remains on-going and additional arrests are forthcoming. Anyone with information regarding this investigation or additional criminal activity can contact the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigation Division at 985-543-4182.Citizens can also anonymously report information through the Louisiana State Police online reporting system by clicking here

24 Tangipahoa Burglaries Solved / 3 Juveniles and 1 Adult Arrested

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office announced today (June 27, 2023) the arrest of three juveniles and one adult in connection with 24 vehicle burglaries. 

Chief Jimmy Travis says that on Sunday (June 25, 2023), deputies responded to Tangi Lakes Drive off West Pleasant Ridge Road when four subjects were seen walking through the apartment complex around 3:30 AM . It was reported to deputies that a homeowner noticed the subjects going into his vehicle and stealing a pair of shoes just prior to calling. When deputies arrived, the subjects fled on foot, and three of them were quickly apprehended. The fourth subject was identified and subsequently turned himself in to detectives later that morning.

Detectives have linked these four subjects to a total of 24 vehicle burglaries occurring over the last week, in both the Tangi Lakes Apartment Complex as well as the Scarlett Glen Subdivision off Dunson Road in Ponchatoula. Detectives are also happy to announce that of those 24 burglaries solved, some of the stolen property has even been returned to the owners. 

The sole adult suspect, identified as 19 year-old Demarco Taylor of Hammond was booked on (17) counts of Vehicle Burglary, (2) counts Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile, and (1) count Resisting an Officer by Flight. The three juvenile suspects were transported to the Florida Parish Juvenile Detention Center and charged with numerous counts of Vehicle Burglary each.

Chief Travis says additional charges may be forthcoming for the four arrestees, as detectives are still investigating several other burglaries where they may have been involved. 

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

Malinda White for Washington Parish President: A Parish We Can Be Proud Of

Washington Parish Jail Releases for June 26, 2023



Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 25-26, 2023

Emerald Stewart (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Gregory Hart (age 54 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000, Bench Warrant/Failure to Appear, and Contempt of Court (6 counts) by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $5685.00.

Earl Seal (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In For Court and on the charge of Contempt of Court by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Robert Hanson (age 36 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $25000.00.

Dasha Taylor (age 29 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft 5000-25000 and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Cody Jones (age 27 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jonathon McCain (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Southwestern Atlantic Ocean (Remnants of Cindy): An area of low pressure, associated with the remnants of Cindy, is more than 400 miles to the south of Bermuda. While strong upper-level winds are expected to prevent redevelopment of this system over the day or so, environmental conditions could become marginally conducive for some gradual development during the latter part of this week. The system is forecast to move generally northward over the western Atlantic, passing near Bermuda on Thursday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 1pm and 3pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 115. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 76. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph after midnight.
Wednesday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Heat index values as high as 116. West wind around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 76. Southwest wind around 5 mph.
Thursday   Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. West wind around 5 mph.
Thursday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 77. South wind around 5 mph.

June 26, 2023

Slidell Police Searching for Murder Suspect

Slidell Police are searching for 25 year-old Jamiel Naquon Miller, wanted for the shooting and killing of 26 year-old Tayante Williamson Sunday (June 25, 2023) evening.

Shortly after 10:30 PM on Sunday, Slidell Police responded to the 1400 block of Gause Boulevard after receiving reports of a shooting. Officers located the victim, suffering from a gunshot wound.  Williamson was rushed to a local hospital where he later died from his injuries. It is believed that Miller and Williamson were having an argument, which reportedly resulted in Miller pulling out a gun and shooting Williamson in the chest.

After the shooting, Miller fled the area on foot. An intensive manhunt ensued but yielded negative results. Investigators have obtained an arrest warrant for Jamiel Miller for one count of Second Degree Murder. 

Miller is considered armed and dangerous.

Anyone with information is asked to call 911 or Slidell Police at 985-643-3131. You can also contact Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.

Washington Parish Jail Releases for June 24-25, 2023



Obituary

Donna Jean Sykes Mullen

April 6, 1959 - June 15, 2023

Tropical Disturbances Today

Southwestern Atlantic Ocean (Remnants of Cindy): A surface trough of low pressure, associated with the remnants of Cindy, is more than 500 miles to the south-southeast of Bermuda. While strong upper-level winds are expected to prevent redevelopment of this system over the next day or two, environmental conditions could then become a little more favorable for some gradual redevelopment during the latter part of this week. This system should move generally northward into the northwestern Atlantic ocean, passing near Bermuda on Thursday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1pm. Partly sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 111. West wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 77. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.
Tuesday   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 99. Heat index values as high as 115. West wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 76. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 101. Light west wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 77. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

June 25, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 24, 2023

Ariel Mitchell (age 23 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by
the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Leroy Wells (age 47 with a Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Intimidating of a Witness by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $3500.00.

Michael Brodmyer (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Tropical Storm Cindy is the only tropical system remaining out there. Cindy is weakening as it moves northwestward at 21 MPH with 50 MPH maximum sustained winds. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Cindy could degenerate into a trough of low pressure by Tuesday.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms between 1pm and 4pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Heat index values as high as 109. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Tonight   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Southwest wind around 10 mph becoming northwest after midnight.
Monday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 110. West wind 10 to 15 mph.
Monday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 77. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tuesday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 99. West wind around 10 mph.
Tuesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 76. Southwest wind around 5 mph.

June 24, 2023

Obituary

Alma Bateman Magee

October 4, 1944 - June 23, 2023

Cats Rescued in Bogalusa – A Big Shout-Out to the Washington Parish Animal Shelter

About 15 minutes before they closed for the day (June 22, 2023), the Washington Parish Animal Shelter  received a call from a very upset Bogalusa resident about a household of 6 felines that had been for over a month without an owner’s care. Now, the WPAS is not animal control and is not able to take on the parish in  that role, but with help from a volunteer task force and good Samaritans they do their best. Hearing about this situation, Kelsey Knight and the WPAS employees jumped up and started preparing for the worst possible case. Sadly, this was what they found.

A Veteran, who had taken up the care of his previously passed mothers’ cats and over-loved them, had been hospitalized for over a month before WPAS was made aware of the situation. A friend/caretaker had been going to the residence as often as she could to care for them and had not realized the decline of the cats since they were so overweight to begin with.

Then during this already hard time, the apartment itself was broken into. While luckily none of the cats ran away during the time when the door was left open, it caused the cats to decline even further in health.

The Veteran remained in the hospital and, to make matters worse, the air conditioner and power went out during the hottest recorded days in southern Louisiana. Sadly, one of the cats passed away. 

After getting to the apartment and exiting the vehicle, WPAS employees could smell the decay. The floor had become oily with urine and feces. Precautions were taken by wearing Tyvek suits, masks, and gloves. 

While the smell itself was overwhelming, it was the state of the home that was even more so. Trash was thrown around and furniture moved obviously by the robber(s) who was looking for whatever items they could find. Then right by the threshold was a small gray emaciated cat meowing for help. WPAS was not aware at the time that this was a 20+ year old male cat that WPAS named Arrow. The other felines were swiftly found and placed in temp taxis to be transported back to WPAS. WPAS also took the deceased feline to properly dispose of her.

The cats rescued range from the youngest at 10 years old to the oldest at 20 years old. For a short time, the felines are being housed until medical can be provided at the WPAS shelter, which is not at this time set up for felines. Rescues are being contacted. One of the felines, a large Maine Coon, has already been adopted and has been placed in an exceptional home.

Kelsey Knight and all the folks at the WPAS work every day taking care of and finding homes for the unfortunate furry residents of our Parish. But there are times, such as this, that they go every further - “above and beyond the call of duty”. 

Take a moment and send them a word of thanks for all that they do. Their email is Washingtonparishanimalshelter@gmail.com  and their FB page is https://www.facebook.com/Washingtonparishanimalshelter/

Washington Parish Jail Releases for June 22-23, 2023



Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 23, 2023

Keith Cooper (age 42 with Gautier, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jennifer McDaniel (age 50 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Joshua Foster (age 32 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Domestic Violence Assault (4 counts) and Domestic Abuse Battery. Released on $10000.00 bond.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Bret is weakening and forecast to degenerate into a trough over the weekend. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Cindy is located about 675 miles east of the Lesser Antilles and strengthening slightly as it moves west-northwest at 15 MPH with 60 MPH maximum sustained winds. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Some gradual weakening is forecast into early next week. 



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning.
Tonight   Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 97. Heat index values as high as 110. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 76. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.
Monday   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 98. Southwest wind around 10 mph.
Monday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 77. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

June 23, 2023

Unrestrained Kentwood Man Killed in Single-Vehicle Crash

Today (June 23, 2023) shortly after 12:30 a.m, Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash on LA 1061 near Hayden Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 21-year-old Keith Harrison of Kentwood. 

The initial investigation revealed that Harrison was driving a 2008 Dodge pickup south on LA 1061 near Hayden Road. For reasons still under investigation, Harrison’s vehicle traveled off the right side of the roadway and impacted a tree. 

Harrison was not restrained at the time of the crash, suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene. Impairment on the part of Harrison is unknown and routine toxicology results are pending. 

Buckling up is the most effective way to protect yourself while driving or riding in a vehicle. It can reduce the risk of serious injury or death in the event of a crash, and it takes only seconds to do. Always remember to buckle up before starting your journey, no matter how short the trip may be.

Obituary

Huey P. Kennedy

November 20, 1943 - June 18, 2023

Obituary

Debra "Debby" Annette Fowler Craft

August 6, 1957 - June 22, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 22, 2023

Christopher Schilling (age 40 with Brookhaven, Ms. address) was booked In From Court

Telra Mobley (age 41 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Battery and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kathy Mobley (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Illegal Use of Weapon/Aggravated Assault and Domestic Abuse/Aggravated Assault/Child Endangerment by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Bret is located about 160 miles west of St. Vincent and has maximum sustained winds of 60 MPH and moving west at 18 MPH. On the forecast track, Bret will continue moving westward across the eastern and central Caribbean. Bret is expected to dissipate over the central Caribbean Sea by Saturday night or Sunday.

Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Cindy, located about 990 miles east of the Lesser Antilles, has maximum sustained winds at 45 MPH and is moving west northwest at 15 MPH. TS Cindy is gradually strengthening but is expected to remain well east and northeast of the northern Leeward Islands through early next week. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect and no hazards affecting land. 



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 4pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. North wind around 5 mph.
Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 71. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Saturday   A chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Light and variable wind becoming southwest 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 50%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Saturday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday   Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.
Sunday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 76. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph.

June 22, 2023

ATV Stolen in Fluker – Seen It?

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office is asking the public's assistance in locating a stolen ATV.

Chief Jimmy Travis says on June 21, 2023, a metallic gray Polaris Razor 1000-XP disappeared between 1:00AM and 5:30 AM while it was parked at Tower Trax, a popular recreation park for all terrain vehicles located on Highway 10 in Fluker.

Chief Travis asks anyone with information surrounding the theft or current location of the ATV, to call Sergeant Jill Hutcheson at 985-748-3335, OR if you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1.800.554.5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

Inmate Dies at St. Tammany Correctional Center

A 64 year-old inmate in the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center was found unresponsive by deputies early Thursday (June 22, 2023) morning.

The inmate had been evaluated by medical personnel in the jail late Wednesday (June 21, 2023) night after he reported not feeling well. No immediate medical concerns were detected, and he was transferred to the Medical Observation Dorm so he could be monitored through the night and be reevaluated by a physician Thursday morning.

At approximately 2:45 a.m. Thursday morning, jail personnel found the man unresponsive and called for an ambulance. Emergency medical personnel responded but were unable to detect signs of life.

The deceased has been turned over to the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office, who will provide identification and a determination on the cause and manner of death.

At this time, the death appears to be due to medical causes, and foul play is not suspected.

The inmate, a Metairie man, was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center by Slidell Police on March 24, on forgery, bank fraud, monetary instrument abuse, identity theft and drug charges. He was being held on a $30,000 bond for the local charges, but at the time of his death he also had holds from three other jurisdictions.

Slidell Police Officer Injured During Pursuit / Suspect Sought

Update: Christopher Ducre surrendered himself to Slidell PD.

Original Story

Shortly before 6pm on Wednesday (June 21, 2023), Slidell Police were conducting an investigation and
attempted to stop an orange Dodge Charger near Highway 11 and Interstate 12.

The suspect vehicle failed to stop and fled from officers. The pursuit led into Lacombe on Highway 190W. During the pursuit, a Slidell Police officer conducted an evasive maneuver in order to avoid striking another vehicle. In doing so, the officer overturned his police unit into a ditch and struck a culvert. The suspect vehicle got away. The officer was transported to Lakeview Hospital with non-life threatening injuries. 

SPD has identified 29-year-old Christopher Ducre as the person driving the suspect vehicle and who is responsible for causing a serious accident and injury to the SPD officer. 

Ducre was last seen driving an orange 2019 Dodge Charger, bearing Louisiana license plate 373EOB. The rear drivers-side window is broken. Ducre is currently wanted for Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Vehicular Negligent Injuring, as well as various other traffic related charges.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Slidell Police at 985-643-3131 or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. Detective Benjamin Williams is leading the investigation.

Obituary

Katherine Dudley Scott

August 29, 1929 - June 21, 2023

Washington Parish Jail Releases for June 20-21, 2023



Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 19-21, 2023

Emily Westmoreland (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Criminal
Trespass. Bond set at $750.00.

Jeremy Blackwell (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Ashley Hollie (age 30 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Brandon Morris (age 19 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 (2 counts), Resisting an Officer, Threatening a Public Official, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Brandon Ishee (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Caprice Rogers (age 49 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In From Court and on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts). No bond set at this time.

Graylon Dillon (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Bret is located about 170 miles east of Barbados and moving west at 15 MPH. With 70 MPH maximum sustained winds, TS Bret is nearing hurricane strength. A Hurricane Watch is in effect for St. Lucia and Tropical Storm advisories are in effect for Dominica, St. Lucia, Martinique, Barbados, St. Vincent and the Grenadines. The forecast track has TS Bret moving westward across the eastern and central Caribbean Sea Friday and Saturday. The system is likely to dissipate over the central Caribbean Sea by Saturday night.

Disturbance 2. Tropical Depression Four has developed in the Central Atlantic, about 1395 miles east of the Lesser Antilles. The system has 35 maximum sustained winds and moving west at 12 MPH. The system is expected to turn toward the northwest during the next few days and to become a tropical storm in a day or so.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 3pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.
Tonight   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 71. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Friday   A chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Increasing clouds, with a high near 92. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming west in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Saturday   A chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
Saturday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 74. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

June 21, 2023

Obituary

Martha Crain Herron

October 15, 1930 - June 14, 2023

Obituary

Toyanica Shante' Burris

December 20, 1975 - June 13, 2023

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Bret is located about 505 miles east of Barbados with 60 miles MPH maximum sustained winds and moving west at 16 MPH. A Tropical Storm Watch is in effect for Barbados, Dominica, Martinique, and St. Lucia. On the forecast track, the center of Bret is expected to move across portions of the Lesser Antilles Thursday afternoon and Thursday night, and then move across the eastern Caribbean Sea on Friday. 

Disturbance 2. Central Tropical Atlantic (AL93): Close on the heels of TS Bret is a low pressure located about midway between the west coast of Africa and the Lesser Antilles. Environmental conditions appear conducive for further development of this system, and a tropical depression will likely form during the next couple of days.  This system is expected to move westward to west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph across the central tropical Atlantic through the early part of the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...70 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...80 percent.



Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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


Today   Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. North wind 5 to 10 mph.
Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 70. North wind around 5 mph.
Thursday   A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Increasing clouds, with a high near 92. North wind around 5 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.
Thursday Night   A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 70. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
Friday   A slight chance of showers, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 50%.
Friday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. South wind around 5 mph.

Bogalusa Council Meeting of June 20, 2023 (Video)