WPSO Responds to Distress Call – One Arrested for Assault With Firearm

Franklinton: On Sunday (February 4, 2024), the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office responded to a distress call on Highway 438. Deputy Zachary Brown was dispatched to the location after receiving a 911 call reporting a disturbance involving a hysterical woman and a crying baby.

Upon arriving at the scene, Deputy Brown encountered Ra’shad Dillon, who was identified as the apparent suspect. Dillon informed Deputy Brown that he and his sister had been arguing, but the altercation had occurred approximately 30 minutes prior to the deputy's arrival. Sergeant Easterling also arrived at the scene to assist with the investigation.

The victim revealed that her brother had forcibly entered her room, damaging the door in the process. The victim stated that she tried to protect her baby from Dillon’s hostility. She further recounted how Dillon forcibly took the baby from her, prompting her to scream for help. The victim’s older brother intervened in an attempt to protect the baby. However, Dillon forcefully grabbed the baby back.

During the altercation, Dillon physically assaulted the victim, dragging her across the bed and causing the bed to break. Hearing the commotion, the victim’s mother and grandmother rushed to the bedroom, and the mother took hold of the baby. In response, the victim retrieved a firearm for her protection. Dillon, noticing this, retrieved a shotgun from his grandfather's room and made a threatening statement about harming everyone in the room, including the baby.

R. Dillon has been arrested on charges of two counts of Aggravated Assault with a Firearm, Simple Battery, and Criminal Damage to Property. He was subsequently transported to the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office for processing and documentation.

“We emphasize our commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all residents within this parish. This incident underscores the importance of timely and professional law enforcement response in maintaining public safety,” says Sheriff Randy “Country” Seal.