Two Arrested Following Multi-parish Narcotics Investigation

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office reports that a music studio owner and his business partner have been arrested on multiple drug and criminal operations charges following a multi-agency investigation that spanned two parishes. Alanza Sibley, age 33, and Jessie Dennis, age 30, turned themselves in to authorities on Tuesday, October 15, 2024.

Sibley faces State RICO (Racketeering) charges, Criminal Conspiracy, Possession with Intent to Distribute CDS, Transactions involving Drug Offenses, and Letting a Disorderly Place. Dennis faces State RICO (Racketeering) charges, Criminal Conspiracy, Possession with Intent to Distribute CDS.

Back in July, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) agents contacted the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) regarding the distribution of large volumes of high-grade marijuana by a group of residents from Hammond, Ponchatoula, and Roseland. 

Following joint investigative efforts, on October 15, TPSO Narcotics detectives teamed up with the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office (LPSO), Hammond Police Department (HPD), DEA and Homeland Security Investigators to serve warrants on two homes and a business.

At the homes on Estate Circle in Hammond and Prokop Road in Albany, several pounds of marijuana and other drugs were discovered. Then at a music studio on South Morrison Boulevard in Hammond, investigators found more high-levels of marijuana, transporting and packaging materials, scales, and guns, one reported stolen from St. Helena Parish.

In total, investigators have also seized more than $100,000. The investigation remains active.

Obituary

Josephine "Mama Jo" Holton

August 30, 1932 - October 20, 2024

Obituary

Faith Ellen Williams

August 4, 1967 - October 20, 2024

Obituary

Betty Jean Penton Rockco

May 6, 1941 - October 20, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

The only system in the tropics is Tropical Storm Oscar, no threat to us.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 82. East wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 51. Calm wind.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 53. Calm wind.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night   Clear, with a low around 55. Calm wind.

81 Year-Old Dies in Secondary Crash in Tangipahoa Parish After Checking on Another Crash Victim in Ditch

On Friday (October 18, 2024) evening, at approximately 8:10 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on US Hwy 51 at Kohnke Hill Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 81-year-old Charles Baglio Jr. of Independence.

The preliminary investigation revealed that two separate crashes occurred, only minutes apart. The first crash involved a 2025 Nissan Altima, driven by Baglio, and a 2016 Nissan Altima. Preliminary findings indicate the 2025 Nissan, driven by Baglio, entered the intersection of US Hwy 51 in the pathway of the 2016 Nissan traveling southbound on US Hwy 51. As a result, the 2025 Nissan driven by Baglio, was struck by the 2016 Nissan. The 2025 Nissan came to rest partially across both lanes of US Hwy 51. The 2016 Nissan exited the roadway and came to rest in the northbound ditch.

Following the initial crash and before emergency personnel arrived, Baglio exited his vehicle and walked to check on the driver in the northbound ditch of US Hwy 51. After leaving the shoulder on foot and re-entering the roadway, Baglio was walking back to his vehicle when a 2001 Toyota Tundra traveling southbound on US Hwy 51 struck Baglio.

Baglio sustained fatal injuries as a result of the second crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the Toyota was unrestrained but uninjured. Impairment is not suspected on the part of the Toyota driver who provided a breath sample of .000g%. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Baglio for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Neither system is a threat to our area. Tropical Depression Nadine is located inland over the Mexican state of Chiapas and Hurricane Oscar is located just southwest of the coast of the Inagua Islands in the southeastern Bahamas. Both are going away from us.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 81. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 50. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 83. East wind around 5 mph.

Monday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 51. Calm wind.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 83. Calm wind.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 53. Calm wind.

Candlelight Vigil for Donna Arceneaux

Freeze Frame Podcast has announced a Candlelight Vigil for Donna Arceneaux in Franklinton. 

“Join us tonight, Saturday, October 19th, 2024, from 8:00 PM - 9:00 PM, as we gather to honor Donna’s memory. At 8:30 PM, we will walk together from 418 Main St, past the spot where the last known photograph of Donna was taken, and continue to the fairground’s midway. Let’s stand united for justice and remembrance.

We’ll be standing by the sign Tucker’s team put up. Anyone who wants to join the walk, light a candle (or your phone flashlight) is welcome. Jeff Jenkins will provide about 100 LED candles, first come, first serve, but feel free to bring your own.”

If you are not familiar with issues surrounding the murder of Donna Arceneaux, click here for links to what you need to know

Arrest Made in Amite Double Homicide

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has announced the arrest on Friday (October 18, 2024) of 21 year-old Ryan Snow in connection with the July 23, 2024 double homicide in Amite. Snow has been booked on two counts of 1st Degree Murder and one count of Obstruction of Justice.

Just before 5 a.m. on July 23, 2024, a woman called 911 reporting having been shot at a mobile home in the 600 block of M.L.K. Street. Law enforcement arrived to discover the woman, Chrissy Jenkins, and her live-in boyfriend, Christopher Hedgewood, both dead from gunshot wounds. The couple were both in their late 20s.

Click here for previous related reporting

Detectives have worked this case doggedly since it occurred and partnered with Crimestoppers of Tangipahoa to offer a reward for information which was increased to $10,000 last month. Few tips were received, but detectives recently got a break with forensic evidence that identified Snow as at least one suspect. 

“I am incredibly proud of our criminal investigations team for not letting up on their drive in this case,” said Sheriff Gerald Sticker, “While we are pleased to bring some level of justice to these victims and their families, the work is not done and our detectives will ensure full justice is served through our courts system.”

Sheriff Gerald Sticker asks anyone with additional information about this crime or any other suspects responsible, to contact the Criminal Investigations Office at 985-902-2008. 

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 18, 2024

Ike Roberts (age 64 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II CDS, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile. Bond set at $150000.00.

Jennifer McDaniel (age 51 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Hermon Ben Garrett (age 76 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s) and Unlawful Presence of a Sex Offender by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Donte Pernell (age 19 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs/Principle, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Logan Wheat (age 30 with Poplarville, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Mitchell Guilbeau (age 29 with Centerville, La. address) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Aruthur Sellers (age 41 with Fort Smith, Ar. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Attempted Simple Burglary, and Possession of Marijuana by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Nadine is forecast to make landfall along the coast of Belize later this morning or early afternoon, and then continue across northern Guatemala and southeastern Mexico late this afternoon into tonight. Weakening is forecast to begin this afternoon once Nadine is inland, and the system is likely to dissipate over southeastern Mexico by early Sunday.

Disturbance 2. Near the Southeastern Bahamas (AL94): Showers and thunderstorms are becoming better organized with a small area of low pressure located less than a couple hundred miles north of the northern coast of the Dominican Republic. In addition, a well-defined surface circulation could be developing. If these trends continue, a tropical  depression or storm could form as soon as later today as the system moves generally westward at 10 to 15 mph. On this track, the system should pass north of Hispaniola today, and move near the Turks and Caicos Islands, the  southeastern Bahamas, and extreme eastern Cuba on Sunday. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...60 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 78. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 51. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 80. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Sunday Night   Clear, with a low around 50. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 82. East wind around 5 mph.

Monday Night   Clear, with a low around 51. Calm wind.

Man Sentenced for Arson at Hammond WalMart on Christmas Eve

Terrence Coe, age 45 and a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on October 8, 2024, by U.S. District Judge, Greg G. Guidry, to 60 months imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to arson. The Court also ordered that Coe be placed on supervised release for 3 years following release from imprisonment and pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

At around 6:00 PM on December 24, 2022, the Hammond Fire Department responded to a call for a fire inside the Walmart store located in the 2700 block of W. Thomas Street. The fire was contained to the paint aisle of the store thanks to quick-acting employees and customers who utilized fire extinguishers to put out the blaze. Despite the store being occupied by at least 500 customers and employees at the time of the fire, no one was injured and the store was evacuated safely.

Investigators quickly determined the fire was intentionally set and pinpointed a suspect seen on the store’s surveillance video. Shortly after sharing still images from that video with the media and with the public, the investigative team was able to identify the suspect as Coe. Coe reportedly admitted to investigators he set the fire in an effort to distract from his efforts to steal various items from the store.

Coe was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on December 27, 2022 on one count each of Aggravated Arson, Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Armed Robbery and Terrorism.

Obituary

William Horatio "Bill" Pounds, Jr.

April 4, 1953 - October 17, 2024

Hammond Man Arrested for Home Invasion & Much More! - 2 More Suspects Wanted

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) reports that 23 year-old Tydarius Rico Andrews
was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on Wednesday (October 16, 2024) on one count each of Home Invasion, Armed Robbery, 2nd Degree Kidnapping, Attempted 1st Degree Rape, Simple Criminal Damage to Property, Identity Theft and Principle to Aggravated Battery.

Around 12:30 a.m. on August 25, 2024, deputies were called to a home on Wood Avenue in the Blythwood Subdivision in Ponchatoula after three masked suspects reportedly entered a home and held all of the residents inside at gunpoint while stealing cash and other items. The suspects are believed to have left the neighborhood in a gray or white Nissan Altima. 

During the investigation, Andrews was identified as one of the suspects involved in the incident and a warrant was obtained for his arrest. Thanks to Hammond Police, Andrews was taken into custody. 

This investigation is ongoing and detectives could still use the public’s assistance to identify and locate the remaining suspects. Detectives believe this crime was targeted and have determined Andrews has family connections to the victims.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about this crime or details about those involved, to contact the Criminal Investigations Office at 985-902-2017. If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s 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.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Who Killed Donna Arceneaux?

This video is an older video, previewing the investigation that has been ongoing.

Click here for the latest episode, links to previous episodes, and other related links.

The next episode will be released October 22, 2024. 

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 15-17, 2024

Brandon Guidry (age 18 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Kayden Mitchell (age 17 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Victoria Kennedy (age 20 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Raheem Kennedy (age 24 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $16000.00.

Keith Byais (age 60 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Ray Head (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Alexander Smith (age 20 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Clayton Pierce (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse/Aggravated Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

The photo of persons pictured were released by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with their updated policy, guided by legal and ethical considerations. 

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Doris Mae Muldrow-Hamilton Weary

March 13, 1953 - October 5, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Western Caribbean Sea (AL95): A broad area of low pressure is gradually becoming better defined to the north of eastern Honduras. Environmental conditions appear conducive for some additional development over the next day or so, and a short-lived tropical depression or storm could form before the system moves inland over Belize and the Yucatan Peninsula of Mexico on Saturday. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...50 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.

Disturbance 2. North of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands (AL94): A trough of low pressure is producing disorganized showers and thunderstorms extending a couple hundred miles north of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Development, if any, of this disturbance should be slow to occur while it moves quickly westward to west-northwestward at around 20 mph, continuing north of Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands today, then near Hispaniola and the southeastern Bahamas this weekend. Further development is not expected due to strong upper-level winds by early next week. 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, with a high near 75. East wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Partly cloudy, with a low around 49. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 79. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night   Clear, with a low around 50. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 80. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night   Clear, with a low around 51. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Obituary

Leanon "Lovell" Daniels

February 15, 1950 - October 4, 2024

Obituary

Floyd Harper

February 29, 1928 - October 5, 2024

St. Tammany Parish Juries Return Guilty Verdicts

District Attorney Collin Sims reports three separate juries returned guilty verdicts during trials held this week.

1. On October 15, 2024, a jury convicted 59-year-old Billy Neidlinger of Slidell for possession of a firearm by a felon and possession of methamphetamine. Assistant District Attorneys Taylor Nicholson and Gary Tromblay prosecuted the case. Judge Scott Gardner presided over the trial and is scheduled to sentence Neidlinger on November 8th.

According to testimony during the trial, Deputies Walker Ray and Earl Thomas with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office were patrolling the Slidell area during the morning hours of October 3, 2023, when they were dispatched to a gas station on North Military Road regarding an alleged assault with a firearm. Upon arrival, the deputies came into contact with a female complainant who stated Neidlinger, her ex-boyfriend, had threatened her with a shotgun during an argument at Neidlinger’s Slidell residence the previous night. Deputies relocated to Neidlinger’s residence and made contact with him.  Neidlinger acknowledged he and his ex-girlfriend had a disagreement but he denied brandishing a shotgun. Deputies obtained consent to search the residence and found a shotgun concealed in a hallway heating vent. It matched the description given by the ex-girlfriend. Neidlinger admitted knowing the shotgun was in his residence but claimed it belonged to his roommate. Due to previous armed robbery and drug convictions, Neidlinger is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm. While interacting with Neidlinger, deputies also discovered he was in possession of a bag of methamphetamine.

2. On October 16, 2024, a jury deliberated for 40 minutes before finding 36-year-old Corey Griffin of Slidell guilty of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.  Assistant District Attorneys Amanda Gritten and Tiffany Dover presented the case to the jury with Judge Vinny Lobello presiding.

Witness testimony established that on September 9, 2023, a customer at a Slidell Walmart called 911 and reported observing a male and female conceal merchandise and then leave the store without paying. The customer followed the two individuals as they fled the store on foot. Officers with the Slidell Police Department responded and soon located the couple. When questioned, the female admitted to shoplifting merchandise from Lowe’s but denied taking anything from Walmart. During the encounter with officers, the male, identified as Corey Griffin, discarded a plastic bag under one of the police units. An officer retrieved the bag and found it contained several smaller plastic bags collectively holding over 26 grams of methamphetamine.  The quantity and packaging of the drugs were indicative of a distributor.  Griffin originally denied ownership of the narcotics but then admitted they were his.

Griffin is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Lobello on October 28th.  He has multiple prior felony convictions, including domestic abuse battery by strangulation, possession of stolen things, possession of methamphetamine and possession of amphetamine.

3. On October 16, 2024, a jury returned a guilty verdict against 46-year-old Kenneth Primus of Covington for possession of methamphetamine. Assistant District Attorneys Taylor Nicholson and Gary Tromblay handled the prosecution and Judge Scott Gardner presided over the trial.

Through trial testimony, it was established that on August 31, 2022, officers with the Covington Police Department executed a search warrant at a residence on West Morgan Street in connection with the investigation of a domestic violence incident. While searching the residence, officers found methamphetamine in the defendant’s bedroom.  Evidence relevant to the domestic violence incident was also recovered.

Judge Gardner is scheduled to sentence Primus on November 8th. He has prior felony convictions for simple burglary, possession of methamphetamine and possession of alprazolam.

Obituary

Brenda Jo Harvey

March 4, 1952 - September 11, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Western Caribbean Sea: Showers and thunderstorms over the western Caribbean Sea are associated with a broad area of low pressure.  Some gradual development is possible over the next couple of days before it moves inland over Central America.  Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

Disturbance 2. East of the Leeward Islands (AL94): Showers and thunderstorms associated with a trough of low pressure located a few hundred miles east of the Leeward Islands remain disorganized.  Some slow development is possible during the next few days as the disturbance moves quickly westward to west-northwestward around 20 mph, passing near the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico on Friday, then near Hispaniola and the southeastern Bahamas on Saturday. Strong upper-level winds should end the chances of development by late in the weekend. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 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   Sunny, with a high near 71. East wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 44. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 74. East wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 48. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph after midnight.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 78. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night   Clear, with a low around 50. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Two Die in Tangipahoa Parish Crash

On Tuesday (October 15, 2024), at approximately 5:05 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop L began
investigating a fatal three-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 1064 at Greco Road in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the lives of two Independence residents, 26-year-old Devarious Robinson and 64-year-old Joe Pittman.

Preliminary investigation revealed that Robinson was driving a 2015 Chrysler 300 northbound on Greco Road toward LA Hwy 1064. Simultaneously, a 2020 GMC Sierra was traveling eastbound, and a 2019 Chevrolet Traverse was traveling westbound on LA Hwy 1064. For reasons still under investigation, the Chrysler entered the intersection and traveled directly into the path of the GMC, which struck the Chrysler on the driver's side. The Chevrolet was then struck by debris from the collision.

Robinson, who was not wearing a seatbelt, was pronounced deceased at the scene, as was Pittman, who was also unrestrained and a rear-seat passenger in the Chrysler. The driver of the GMC, who was properly restrained, along with two properly restrained passengers, sustained minor injuries and were transported to a local hospital. The driver of the Chevrolet Traverse was uninjured and provided a breath sample that tested 0.000g%. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology tests were performed on the drivers of the Chrysler and the GMC.

Louisiana State Police remind all motorists of the critical importance of obeying traffic laws, avoiding impaired, fatigued, or distracted driving, and ensuring all occupants are properly restrained. These simple precautions can often make the difference between life and death.

Obituary

Craigory Leroy Luper

October 30, 1963 - October 15, 2024

Obituary

Sandra A. Luter

December 26, 1960 - October 12, 2024

Arrest Made in Lacombe-area Murder

This morning (October 16, 2024), the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's reported the arrest on October 15, 2024 of 17 year-old Caleb Gasery of Lacombe for the murder of Jason Sumner on October 9, 2024. 

Shortly before 10 p.m. on October 9, 2024, STPSO deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 26000 block of E. Jackson St. in Lacombe in reference to a subject who had possibly been shot. Patrol deputies located a man, who had sustained an apparent gunshot wound, lying near the porch of the residence. Life-saving measures were attempted but were unsuccessful. The body was turned over to the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office.

The investigation by Detectives with the St Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit led to the arrest of Gasery on the charge of Second-Degree Murder. 

“I want to thank the hard-working men and women of our Major Crimes Unit who have worked around the clock to identify and arrest the individual responsible for this crime,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “This arrest helps to bring some closure to the Sumner family and the Lacombe community.”

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Western Caribbean Sea: A broad area of low pressure is over the southwestern Caribbean Sea. Some gradual development is possible if the system stays over water while it moves slowly northwestward towards Central America. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

Disturbance 2. Central Tropical Atlantic (AL94): A broad area of low pressure is located over the central tropical Atlantic. This system is forecast to move generally westward to west-northwestward, and environmental conditions appear marginally conducive for gradual development during the latter part of this week. A tropical depression could form as the system moves near the Leeward and Virgin Islands late this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 68. Northeast wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 42. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 70. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 44. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 75. East wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 48. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Obituary

Charline Goings Cefalu

May 11, 1932 - October 15, 2024

Obituary

Elton "Coach" Shaw

May 21, 1933 - October 12, 2024

Obituary

Tommie Joyce Herring Lea 

February 9, 1924 – October 14, 2024

What could this winter look like?

A weak La Niña is expected to develop, according to an article on cnn.com. Click here for the full article

La Niña's typical influence on the winter in the Lower 48 is shown below.

Message from Washington Parish Sheriff's Office: We're Hiring!

Good Morning,

Our office is currently accepting applications for communications deputies (dispatch), corrections deputies, and POST-1 certified patrol deputies. If you’re looking for a career with excellent benefits and opportunities for advancements and you’re ready to make a difference in your community, give us a call or fill out an online application.

• Communication Deputies are an essential part of our team, fielding calls from the public, coordinating response efforts between units, and managing the computer and phone systems that allow us to relay vital information in order to better serve the public. Must be 18 to apply, and possess a valid driver’s license and high school diploma or GED. The ideal candidate will have strong communication and multitasking skills, and be able to work on rotating shifts. Pay is $16/hr.

• Corrections Deputies work in the Washington Parish Jail, providing safety and security to our inmates while maintaining law and order within the facility. Our team works together to keep the facility humming along, and a functioning jail is critical to maintaining law and order within the community. Must be 18 to apply, and possess a valid driver’s license and high school diploma or GED. Pay is $14.25/hr.

• Patrol Deputies are our front-line team members, working with the public to maintain peace and safety within our community. Deputies who are already POST certified will be preferentially hired, but anyone interested in a career in law enforcement is encouraged to apply. Non-certified applicants may work in the jail until they are offered a slot at our training academy to become POST certified patrol deputies. Base pay depends on experience and certifications.

All positions come with a competitive benefits package, including medical coverage, pension, vacation, and opportunities for advancement within the organization. Applications can be found on our website, https://www.wpso.la.gov/

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 14, 2024

Deonta Nelson (age 23 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS
With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $40000.00.

Trey Smith (age 29 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Failure to Appear by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $41309.00.

Paul Courtney (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Lajerek Toomer (age 27 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Cedric Greely (age 59 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $6000.00.

Halley Ross (age 38 with Biloxi, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Mason Buff (age 31 with Bay City, Tx. address) was booked on the charge of Expired Drivers License by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $1500.00.

Vijay Bhuschan (age 48 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jeremy Forbes (age 41 with Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jonathan Peters (age 22 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $75000.00.

Allen Peterson (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS
With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

The photo of persons pictured were released by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with their updated policy, guided by legal and ethical considerations. 

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Western Caribbean Sea: A broad area of low pressure could develop over the southwestern Caribbean Sea by the middle to latter portions of this week. Some gradual development is possible thereafter if the system stays over water while it moves slowly west-northwestward towards northern Central America. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Disturbance 2. Central Tropical Atlantic (AL94): An area of low pressure is located over the central tropical Atlantic. This system is forecast to move generally westward, and environmental conditions could become more conducive for gradual development by the middle to latter part of this week. A tropical depression could form as the system begins moving west-northwestward and approaches or moves near the Leeward Islands late this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 48. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 69. Northeast wind around 15 mph.

Wednesday Night   Clear, with a low around 43. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 71. East wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 45. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph after midnight.

Is Washington Parish Ready for the Truth? Investigating The Murder Of Donna Arceneaux. Episode 3

Donna had a history of regular visits to the local hospital - those records uncover a completely new theory in her death. While trying to make contact with Clay, Tucker finally reaches Donna's spiritual counselor, and she doesn't hold back.
 

See the introduction and related links here.

Listen to Episode 1 here.

Listen to Episode 2 here.

WPSS is Hiring Teachers!

Are you passionate about making a difference in students' lives? Consider joining the Washington Parish School System! 

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

✅ A selection of HMO health plans  

✅ Group life insurance  

✅ State-supported retirement  

✅ Credit union access  

✅ Dental care plans  

✅ Flexible spending accounts and tax-deferred annuities

Ready to make an impact? Click below to explore our job opportunities!  

📲 985.839.3436

Former STPSO Employee Arrested for Financial Crimes

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest Monday (October 14, 2024) of  Andrea Baragona, age 38 and a former school resource officer with the STPSO on the charges of Theft Over $25,000 (felony), Money Laundering $20,000-$100,000 (felony), False Accounting (misdemeanor), Injuring Public Records (felony) and Malfeasance in Office (felony).  She will be booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.   

Baragona has been employed with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office since April 2013. The report states that these crimes in no way involved Sheriff’s Office or School Board funds.

This investigation is ongoing.

“I hold all of our employees to the highest standard. When a public servant breaks the law, that individual must face the consequences,” said Sheriff Randy Smith said.

Obituary

Susan Diane Magee

September 29, 1966 - October 12, 2024

Obituary

Lindoris R. Bickham

November 9, 1952 - October 3, 2024

Franklinton Police Apprehend Suspect After Vehicle and Foot Chases

Before daylight on Sunday (October 13,2024) morning, at approximately 3:45 AM, Franklinton Police Officers were dispatched to Riverside Medical Center about a report of female being involved in a domestic violence incident and being struck in the head by a pistol. 

Officers then went to 1209 Bene Street in attempt to locate the suspect, 24 year-old Damain Barnes. Officers found several bullet holes inside the residence and blood throughout the house. A projectile and casing was recovered on the front porch. 

While the investigation was being conducted, a vehicle matching the description that Barnes fled in was observed traveling back near the residence. When Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the vehicle fled but crashed in the 900 block of Bene St.. The driver bailed out on foot, fleeing from officers, wearing dark-colored jeans and white t-shirt.  

Later, a citizen observed a subject matching the description, walking on Hwy 25. 2.7 miles north of Franklinton. The civilian called FPD and Officers responded to the reported sighting. The subject jumped off the Hays Creek bridge and fled on foot again from officers. Officers pursued the him through the brush and creek and apprehended Barnes. 

Barnes was charged with Home Invasion, Aggravated Second Degree Battery (2 counts), Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, and Possession of Firearm With Obliterated Serial Number. Barnes was booked into the Washington Parish Jail at 8:18 AM. The booking report showed Barnes as a resident of Dickerson Lane, Kentwood, Louisiana. No bond had been set at press time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Plant at the Right Time to Grow Garlic and Bulb Onions

Garlic and most types of bulb-forming onions need to be exposed to cool temperatures followed by longer days to form bulbs of the desired sizes. The time of planting is therefore important.

Garlic planted between September and October produces usable bulbs approximately 7 to 8 months after planting, or around mid-April to June.

Bulb onion transplants can be planted between mid-December and January for harvest around May. The size of onion transplants is important. Ones that are too large at the time of planting are likely to bolt (flower). At the same time, if they’re too small, they may not survive. Choose transplants that have a diameter less than that of a pencil but at least three true leaves.

Since both take a relatively long time to mature, garlic and onions can be planted along the edge of the garden, so that the rest of the garden can be prepared for spring planting.

Three types of garlic grown in Louisiana are elephant or Tahiti garlic (mild-flavored, large, dark-colored cloves), Creole garlic (white cloves intermediate with respect to size and pungency), and Italian garlic (strong-flavored, small, pink-skinned cloves). Elephant garlic is actually a different species from regular garlic and is more closely related to leeks. Both elephant and Italian garlic store well.

Bulb onion varieties to consider include Candy, Red Burgundy, Savannah Sweet, Texas Grano 1015Y, Texas Grano 502, White Granex, and Yellow Granex. If you want an onion that stores well and sweetness isn’t a priority, look for Red Creole.

Plant individual garlic cloves 2 to 3 inches deep and 3 to 6 inches apart. Be sure that the top ends are pointed upwards. Space bulb-forming onion transplants 2 to 4 inches apart. The base of the transplant should be 0.5 to 0.75 inch deep. When planted in rows, garlic and onion can be “double drilled.” In other words, two (or more) “drills” (rows) of plants can be spaced about 1 foot apart within each row.

Before planting garlic, 0.5 pound (1 cup) of 13-13-13 or 0.4 pound (0.8 cup) of 8-24-24 can be mixed into the soil, for every 10 feet of row or 30 square feet. For the same area, 0.25 pound (0.5 cup) 13-13-13 or 8-24-24 can be mixed into the soil before planting bulb-forming onions. Avoid overfertilizing onions, since doing so can encourage them to bolt.

Side-dress garlic plants when shoots emerge from the soil (about 3 to 4 weeks after planting), when new growth begins in late winter (around mid-February), and then three to four weeks after that (around early March). Wait until about mid-February to side-dress onions, and then side-dress every two to three weeks, for a total of three to four applications. When side-dressing, 0.1 pound (0.2 cups or 3 tablespoons) of 33-0-0, 0.15 pound (0.25 cup or 4 tablespoons) of ammonium sulfate, or 0.2 pound (0.33 cup or 5 tablespoons) of calcium nitrate can be used each time, per 10 feet of row or 30 square feet.

Pay attention to weeds, and don’t let them get out of control. They can be hard to manage among closely spaced plants.

It’s time to harvest garlic and bulb onions when leaves turn yellow and when 50 to 60 percent of tops have fallen over, respectively.

When growing green onions, leeks, and shallots (for the tops rather than for bulbs), you have more flexibility with respect to planting time. These can be planted, using transplants or sets, between August and February. Chives, which we generally think of as an herb more so than a vegetable, are perennial and can be transplanted just about any time. Planting between fall and mid-spring gives them a chance to get established before the weather gets really hot.

Let me know if you have questions.

Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages

Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).

Obituary

Michael Wayne Breland

July 31, 1964 - October 8, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 13, 2024

Damain Barnes (age 24 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Home Invasion, Aggravated Second Degree Battery (2 counts), Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, and Possession of Firearm With Obliterated Serial Number by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Shannon Temples (age 51 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Video Voyeurism by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

The photo of persons pictured were released by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with their updated policy, guided by legal and ethical considerations. 

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Central Tropical Atlantic (AL94): A well-defined area of low pressure is located several hundred miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands. This system is currently embedded in a dry environment, and development is unlikely over the next couple of days. However, this system is forecast to move generally westward toward warmer waters, and environmental conditions could become more favorable for gradual development by the middle to latter part of this week. A tropical depression could form as the system begins moving west-northwestward and approaches or moves near the Leeward Islands late this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Columbus Day   Sunny, with a high near 87. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 60. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 50. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 69. Northeast wind 10 to 15 mph.

Wednesday Night   Clear, with a low around 44. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 12, 2024

William Straughter (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (4 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $11531.00.

Rodrick/Rogerick Jamal Jones (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tommie Primes (age 68 with Madisonville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Angela Breland (age 56 with Folsom, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Medhat Alhashimi (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Ricky Joe Edwards

June 4, 1965 - October 11, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL94): An area of low pressure is located a few hundred miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands. While the system is currently embedded in an environment that is not favorable for development over the next couple of days, the system is forecast to move generally westward to west-southwestward across the tropical Atlantic, where environmental conditions could become more favorable for gradual development in the central Tropical Atlantic by the mid to latter part of this week. 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   Sunny, with a high near 88. Light southwest wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph.

Columbus Day   Sunny, with a high near 88. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Monday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 61. North wind around 5 mph.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 83. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 52. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Obituary

Geraldine "Jeri" Gunulfsen

September 7, 1946 - October 11, 2024

Introducing FREEZE FRAME: The Murder of Donna Arceneaux

Former reality TV executive and Washington Parish native Tucker Simmons returns to his South Louisiana hometown to dig into long-standing rumors of corruption, intimidation, and drug trafficking. Not only are politicians and religious leaders implicated—his own family is rumored to be involved. But when a tip uncovers the truth about the 2017 death of Donna Smith Arceneaux, everything changes. Freeze Frame is a documentary-style series exposing a tangled web of betrayal, blackmail, and murder buried for years in a small town where nothing is as it seems.

Go to https://www.freezeframepodcast.com/ for all available episodes and  click here for the Facebook page.

Click here for the initial story of her death and Click here for her obituary.

Bogalusa Police Arrest Six on Firearms & Narcotics Offenses

The Bogalusa Police Department has reported the arrest on Friday (October 11, 2024) evening of six persons on a variety of firearm and narcotic related offenses after officers responded to a report of shots being fired near a residence off of Sullivan Drive.

The investigation subsequently led to a search warrant being executed at a nearby residence. During the search, Officers located 5 firearms, with one being reported stolen, along with an amount of suspected cocaine and marijuana. 

This matter is currently being investigated and additional details may be released at a later time.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 10-11, 2024

Colby Seal (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2
counts). No bond set at this time.

Ashwell Scott (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on October 11, 2024.

Jennifer McDaniel (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

E'Merous Anders (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Georgia Dial (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s)/ 2 counts. Bond set at $75000.00.

Lisa Beard (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Protective Order Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

The photo of persons pictured were released by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with their updated policy, guided by legal and ethical considerations. 

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Leslie is no threat to our area, located way out in the Atlantic, and there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Leslie is likely to gradually weaken and become an extratropical cyclone tonight or Sunday.

Disturbance 2. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL94): The circulation associated with an area of low pressure located a couple of hundred miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands appears to have become slightly better defined this morning. However, environmental conditions are expected to become less conducive for further development later today. A short-lived tropical depression could still form at any time today while the system moves generally westward. After that time, the system is forecast to continue moving westward across the central tropical Atlantic, but further development is not anticipated through at least the middle of next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...40 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.