Washington Parish Sheriff's Office: Disturbing Child Exploitation Case Unveiled / Arrest Made / Bond Set at Over $1 Million

Source: Washington Parish Sheriff's Office Press Release on April 14, 2023

An extensive investigation was initiated by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office on August 3, 2023, following the discovery of a significant lead in a case involving the ownership and contents of an SD card turned in to the local authorities. This discovery eventually led WPSO’s Detectives and Criminal Investigation Division to the residence of 39 year-old Eugene Loisel, III of Franklinton, culminating in a series of events that have exposed a deeply disturbing case of child exploitation.

The investigation began with the analysis of the SD card's contents and quickly escalated as evidence emerged that pointed towards illicit activities involving minors. A search warrant was obtained for the residence of Loisel, III and execution of this warrant uncovered a chilling array of evidence, prompting the issuance of a total of 26 search warrants and one arrest warrant.

As a result of the comprehensive search operation, Eugene Loisel, III was apprehended and subsequently booked on August 10, 2023 into the Washington Parish Jail on numerous charges that include:

• Two counts of First Degree Rape involving victims under the age of 13 years.
• One count of Indecent Behavior with Juveniles.
• One count of Indecent Behavior with Juvenile(s).
• One count of Producing and Distributing Pornography involving Juvenile(s).
• One count of Oral Sexual Battery.

Bond was set at over $1 Million. ($1,010,000.00)

It is expected that further charges will be filed against Loisel, III as additional evidence is uncovered, reflecting the serious nature of the ongoing investigation.

This case has prompted a joint effort between the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office Criminal Investigations Department and the Department of Investigations from the Louisiana Attorney General's Office, specifically the Cyber Crimes Unit specializing in Internet Crimes Against Children. The collaboration of these units underscores the gravity of the situation and the need for a concentrated, mulch-jurisdictional approach to bring justice to the victims and hold the perpetrators accountable.

Sheriff Randy "Country" Seal of the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office stated, "Our commitment to protecting the most vulnerable members of our community remains unwavering. This investigation is a testament to the dedication and diligence of our law enforcement personnel, as well as the critical role that collaboration between agencies plays in ensuring that those who commit such heinous crimes are brought to justice."

The evidence gathered during the course of this investigation points towards a potentially expansive web of child exploitation, with the recovered materials suggesting involvement in the widespread production of child pornography. This disturbing revelation underlines the necessity for ongoing vigilance and cooperation across jurisdictions to ensure the safety and well-being of our children.

The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office urges anyone with additional information related to this case to come forward and assist in the ongoing investigation. Individuals can contact the sheriff's office at (985) 839-3434 or provide anonymous tips through wpso.la.gov.

As this investigation continues to unfold, updates will be provided.