Help Locate This Wanted Slidell Man

The Slidell Police Department is asking for the public’s assistance with locating 46-year-old
Michael Ratcliff, who fled from a traffic stop last Wednesday (November 27, 2024). An officer with the Slidell Police Department conducted a traffic stop in the area of West Hall and Carroll Road on a vehicle that failed to display a license plate. As the officer was conducting his investigation, he noticed the vehicle’s operator toss a bag of suspected narcotics on the ground. This bag was later discovered to contain a distribution amount of crack cocaine. 

As the officer attempted to detain the subject, who is identified as 46-year-old Michael Ratcliff of Slidell, a struggle ensued. During the struggle, the officer received an injury to his shoulder, which allowed Michael Ratcliff to flee from the scene on foot. 

Officers quickly set up a perimeter around the immediate area and utilized a Slidell Police canine to track and attempt to locate Ratcliff, but it is suspected that Ratcliff was able to seek refuge inside one of several nearby homes he associates with. 

Ratcliff is now wanted by the Slidell Police Department on the charges of Possession with Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS (Crack Cocaine), Resisting an Officer by Force or Violence Causing Injury, Obstruction of Justice, and Failure to Display a License Plate. Michael Ratcliff is also wanted on a pre-existing warrant for Aggravated Battery. 

Ratcliff is currently out on parole from a prior prison sentencing until 2033, and has failed to abide by his parole terms and conditions. 

The injured officer was transported to a local area hospital for treatment and was discharged the same evening. 

The Slidell Police Department is asking anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Michael Ratcliff to contact the Slidell Police Department at 985-643-3131 or Crimestoppers at 504-822-1111. You can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a cash reward.