Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 19, 2025

Jermaine Walker (age 49 with Slidell, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released December 19, 2025, no bond information.

Ricky Applewhite (age 36 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Resisting an Officer by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Corey Dykes (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Injuring Public Records, Misrepresentation During Issuance of a Misdemeanor Summons or Preparation, Resisting an Officer, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Stacey Grimes (age 56 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving During Darkness With Parking Lights, Expired License Plate, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Melvin Lowe (age 47 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Theft of Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $150000.00.

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

Obituary

Dorothy Rae Baham

May 16, 1950 - December 19, 2025

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

2025 Blueberry Variety Demonstration Update

Last year, I wrote about the 2024 yields of the 31 blueberry varieties in our demonstration at the Hammond Research Station. This past summer, we again harvested blueberries and weighed them to quantify yields. Here, I’m providing information about 2025 season yields and the two-season averages.

Weights are per-plant yields in pounds, averaged over three (or two, in the case of Centurion) plants of each variety. All were planted in November of 2020. Because this is a demonstration and not a true research project, all plants of a given variety are next to each other, rather than replicated randomly within the area. Therefore, it’s likely that some of the variation in yields is due to factors other than the varieties themselves, such as soil conditions in the spots where they’re planted. Nevertheless, the data we’ve collected does provide some useful information.

The top yielders in 2025 largely overlapped with 2024’s top performers, though the exact ranking was different. Premier (15.3 lb), Brightwell (13.3 lb), Tifblue (12.0 lb), Ochlockonee (11.7 lb), Austin (11.0 lb), Alapaha (8.7 lb), and Powderblue (7.6 lb) – all rabbiteye varieties – were top-10 yielders both years. Three varieties – Farthing (9.2 lb), Suziblue (8.0 lb), and Onslow (7.6 lb) – that didn’t crack the top 10 in 2024 did so in 2025, replacing three others – Centurion, Legacy, and DeSoto – that were top-10 yielders in 2024.

We harvested from April 18, when Patrecia, Paloma, and Farthing had ripe fruit (at least 10 grams per plant) until June 30, when Ochlockonee, DeSoto, Onslow, and Centurion still had at least that amount of ripe fruit.

In 2025, no variety achieved the 17 to 19 pound yields we saw from Tifblue, Ochlockonee, and Brightwell in 2024. The high yields that year may have been due in part to the very small 2023 crop. A late freeze that year killed most blueberry flowers, so plants did not expend energy ripening many berries and likely had some extra carbohydrate reserves that helped the plants make the 2024 crop.

Averaged over two years, the top 10 producers were Tifblue, Brightwell, Ochlockonee, Premier, Austin, Alapaha, Powderblue, Legacy, Farthing, and Centurion. All of these are rabbiteye varieties except Legacy and Farthing.

The per-plant yields (lb) of the rabbiteye and related varieties averaged over the 2024 and 2025 seasons were as follows: Tifblue (15.6), Brightwell (15.4), Ochlockonee (15.0), Premier (13.7), Austin (11.6), Alapaha (9.2), Powderblue (8.4), Centurion (6.7), DeSoto (6.5), Onslow (6.5), Delite (5.8), Climax (5.1), Vernon (5.1), Columbus (3.6), Pink Lemonade (2.9), Titan (2.7), Krewer (1.9), and Robeson (1.8).

(I strongly suspect that one or more of the plants in the DeSoto and Robeson plots are not actually DeSoto and Robeson, even they were labeled as such. So, the stated yields of those may not be entirely reflective of those varieties’ potential.)

These are the per-plant yields (lb) of the southern highbush varieties, averaged over the 2024 and 2025 seasons: Legacy (7.2), Farthing (6.9), Suziblue (5.9), Gupton (5.6), Pearl (5.3), Keecrisp (3.7), Emerald (3.5), Camellia (1.6), Colibri (1.5), Miss Lilly (1.4), Patrecia (1.2), Paloma (1.2), and Star (0.8).

Of course, yield isn’t the only thing we care about when choosing blueberry varieties. We did some informal taste testing over the past two seasons, but in 2026, I plan to do some more organized evaluations of consumer preferences.

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

Myra Dedon Roberts

November 9, 1960 - December 18, 2025

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. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Increasing clouds, with a low around 57. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Sunday   Showers likely, mainly after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 75. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch possible.

Sunday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 59. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.

Monday   A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 70. Southeast wind around 5 mph.

Monday Night   Partly cloudy, with a low around 54. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Obituary

Shirley Goodman

September 28, 1936 - December 19, 2025

Obituary

Vivian Janice Morgan Robertson

February 26, 1942 - December 19, 2025

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 17-18, 2025

Darryl Douglas (age 22 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Alicia Buras (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Undreay Jackson (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 25000 or More by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Amanda Whitten (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 25000 or More by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Santanna Ratley (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Alante Berger (age 29 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Jeremy Cordwell (age 41 with Ashland, Ky. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

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

Suspects Sought in Roseland Dollar General Theft

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs the public’s help identifying and locating two suspects in December 4, 2025 theft at the Dollar General store in Roseland. 

On December 4, 2025, two men entered the Dollar General store around 7 p.m. The men, seen in the attached surveillance images, presented the clerk with a fraudulent prepaid Visa card that they tricked her into transferring to a new prepaid Visa card worth $1,000.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who these suspects are, or their whereabouts, to contact Det. Earl McFarland at 985-514-8181 or 985-351-8942.

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! Tips submitted through Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.

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

Hammond Woman Killed in Crash on Hwy 16 Near Amite

On December 16, 2025, at approximately 10:20 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a two-vehicle crash on LA Highway 16 near Dykes Lane in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 35-year-old Jalisa S. Alexander of Hammond.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2022 Chevrolet Malibu, driven by Alexander, was traveling east on LA Highway 16. At the same time, a 2012 Kia Sorento was traveling west on LA Highway 16. For reasons still under investigation, the Kia crossed the center line and struck the Chevrolet head-on.

Alexander, who was properly restrained, sustained serious injuries and died on scene. Alexander’s passenger was also properly restrained, suffered minor injuries, and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. The driver of the Kia, who was properly restrained, sustained serious injuries and was transported to a local hospital. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were collected from both drivers for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Far too often, Troopers see the tragic results of preventable crashes. While not all crashes are survivable, wearing seatbelts correctly can significantly improve your chances of survival and reduce the severity of injuries. Ensure the seatbelt is correctly positioned across your hips and shoulders, and ensure children are securely fastened in appropriate car seats. These measures are crucial for arriving at your destination safely. Additionally, distracted and inattentive driving remains a leading cause of crashes in our state. Adhering to these simple precautions and all traffic laws can significantly enhance road safety.

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture

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 59. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 38. Calm wind.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 71. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Saturday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers after midnight. Increasing clouds, with a low around 55. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Sunday   A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 72. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   A 40 percent chance of showers, mainly before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 56. East wind around 5 mph.

Slidell Man Found Guilty of Brutal Battery of Dating Partner

District Attorney Collin Sims announces that on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, a St. Tammany Parish jury found Christian Jarrel Harrison, age 31 and of Slidell, guilty of multiple felony charges stemming from a horrific two-day period of domestic violence in June 2023. Following a three-day trial in the courtroom of the Honorable Judge Alan A. Zaunbrecher, Division H, the jury returned guilty verdicts on the following counts: Battery of a Dating Partner by Burning, Battery of a Dating Partner with Serious Bodily Injury, Possession of a Firearm by a Person Convicted of Certain Felonies, and Aggravated Assault

The investigation began on June 6, 2023, after the victim was brought to New Orleans East Hospital by her mother for treatment of severe injuries. Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office took over the investigation into the incident, which occurred at Harrison’s residence on Chicory Court in Slidell.

Evidence presented during the trial revealed that on June 3, 2023, Harrison became violent, accusing the victim of sharing his Wi-Fi password. Over the course of two days, Harrison subjected the victim to a series of brutal acts, including punching her repeatedly in the face and body and burning the top of her hand with a lit cigarette. He put a gun to her forehead and into her mouth and told her to pull the trigger. In an act of extreme degradation, Harrison also forced the victim to consume his urine from a beer bottle.

Detectives noted that the victim initially had difficulty detailing the abuse due to the trauma of the event and her desire to shield her parents from the graphic nature of the violence she endured.

“This verdict ensures that a dangerous individual is held accountable for the unimaginable cruelty he inflicted upon someone he was in a relationship with.” said District Attorney Collin Sims. “Domestic violence is not just a private matter; it is a violent crime that tears at the fabric of our community. My office remains committed to standing with survivors and ensuring that those who use fear and violence as tools of control face the full weight of the law.”

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Amanda Gritten and Zachary Popovich. District Attorney Sims extended his gratitude to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office for their thorough investigation and for the bravery of the victim in coming forward to testify.

Harrison faces significant prison time, particularly given his status as a prior felon. He was previously convicted of Simple Burglary, three times, in St. Tammany Parish in 2015. A sentencing date has been set for January 06, 2026.

62-Year-Old Covington Man Sentenced to 30 Years for 2020 Murder

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on Wednesday, December 17, 2025, 62-year-old Robert Clyde Dickerson Jr., of Covington, pleaded guilty to Manslaughter before District Judge Richard Swartz in Division C. Following the plea, Dickerson was sentenced to 30 years in the Department of Corrections.

The case dates back to August 12, 2020. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a 911 call at a residence on Wilson Road, where a male voice was heard pleading for help. Upon arrival, deputies discovered the victim, Everett W. Finley, suffering from a gunshot wound to the chest. Mr. Finley was rushed to St. Tammany Parish Hospital by EMS, where he later succumbed to his injuries.

Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office utilized surveillance footage from cameras mounted on the victim’s trailer to piece together the events. The recordings revealed: a masked gunman wearing a headlamp approaching the rear of the trailer at approximately 2:33 AM, the suspect fleeing the scene seconds after the shooting, and a vehicle parked in the driveway in the hours leading up to the murder.

Through their investigation, detectives learned that Dickerson had previously worked with the victim and harbored deep resentment, blaming Finley for his termination from their place of employment.

During questioning, Dickerson confessed to the murder, providing specific details that had not been released to the public. He further directed investigators to the murder weapon – a handgun he had transported to a residence in Waynesboro, Mississippi. Detectives successfully recovered the firearm from an individual identified as Melissa Smith.

In addition to the homicide, the investigation led to charges involving the possession of a stolen firearm belonging to another individual and the possession of an unregistered weapon.

“This was a calculated act of violence fueled by workplace grievance,” said District Attorney Collin Sims. “The 30-year sentence ensures that the defendant is held accountable for the life he took and the trauma he inflicted on the Finley family and the community. I want to commend the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office for their meticulous investigative work and Assistant District Attorney Christina Fisher for her dedication to seeking justice for the Finley family.”

Obituary

Andre' Anthony Cerigny

March 7, 1952 - December 8, 2025

Obituary

Ester Lee Jackson Magee

September 26, 1946 - December 5, 2025

Obituary

Richard Clarke Dennison

November 26, 1952 - November 30, 2025

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   A 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms.  Areas of dense fog before noon. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 74. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight   A 20 percent chance of showers before 7pm. Mostly cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 42. West wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 60. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Friday Night   Clear, with a low around 39. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 71. South wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 55. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Covington Man Gets 2 Concurrent 20-Year Sentences Without Parole for Sexual Abuse of Teenager

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on Thursday, December 12, 2025, Winston Bradford Patterson, age 40 and of Covington, was sentenced to two 20-year sentences – to run concurrently, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence, by District Judge Scott Gardner. 

Patterson’s sentencing follows his conviction by a St. Tammany Parish jury on October 16, 2025, for Oral Sexual Battery of a Victim Under 15 and Molestation of a Juvenile. Assistant District Attorneys Taylor Nicholson and Gary Tromblay prosecuted the case. The jury delivered the guilty verdict after a four-day trial.

The charges stem from sexual crimes Patterson committed against his then-fiancée’s teenage daughter in 2022. A 13-year-old girl disclosed the abuse to a trusted adult, initiating an investigation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, led by then-Detective Nicholas Fishel.

Forensic interviewer Cally Huggins with the Children’s Advocacy Center’s Hope House conducted a critical interview with the victim. The victim detailed how Patterson initially gained her trust before progressively coercing her into various sexual acts over an extended period.

Patterson, when questioned, acknowledged having an improper relationship with the victim. Family members described Patterson as being “overly interested” in the victim and found his interactions “odd.”

At the sentencing hearing, Judge Gardner noted the heinous nature of the abuse of trust and authority by Patterson against a vulnerable family member. Due to Patterson’s two convictions and taking into account his history of prior drug-related convictions, Judge Gardner imposed the maximum sentences possible under the law, resulting in the 20-year sentence without parole eligibility.

District Attorney Sims stated, “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the offenses and the profound breach of trust involved. While it ensures the offender will be incarcerated for a significant period of time, the lasting harm inflicted on the victim cannot be measured by any term of imprisonment. Our office remains committed to pursuing accountability and justice in every case involving the exploitation of children.”

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 16, 2025

Megan Crain (age 36 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Unlawful Ownership of a Dangerous Dog and Criminal Damage by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $500.00 bond.

Lacristin Wells (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting a Police Officer With Force or Violence, Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present. No bond set at this time.

Jidarren Mobley (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Simple Assault, and Contempt of Court. No bond set at this time.

James Blackwell (age 57 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Probation Violation. No bond set at this time.

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

Obituary

Donald Ray Davis, Sr.

April 2, 1963 - December 15, 2025

Amite Jail Escapee Back in Jail With New Charges

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office reports that on Monday (December 15, 2025) morning, 18-year-old  Donnie Stevenson, a jail inmate, escaped custody from a transport vehicle at the courthouse in Amite. Stevenson is now back in custody with new charges of Simple Escape and Resisting an Officer. Stevenson had been in jail since March, 2025 awaiting trial for 1st Degree Rape, Aggravated Kidnapping, Armed Robbery and Illegal Possession of Stolen Things.

The investigation has revealed that shortly before 9 a.m. on Monday, a transport vehicle arrived to the courthouse from the jail. The vehicle parked in the outside loading dock area and the security gate to the area was closed. Over the next hour, as is standard procedure, small groups of inmates were escorted at different times from the vehicle into the courthouse until the vehicle was empty.

Around 10 a.m., deputies were informed by a courthouse employee of a suspicious person just seen wearing a gray sweat suit and orange flip-flops walking from behind the courthouse. While some deputies began an active pursuit of this individual, deputies inside the courthouse began a headcount of the inmates.

The chase led to a nearby neighborhood where several residents helped direct deputies to follow the individual they had seen running and pulling on vehicle and home door handles. Around 10:45 a.m., K-9 Thor located the individual, now wearing a black sweatsuit, hiding alongside a mobile home. 

Once in custody, it was determined the individual had a waist chain on underneath his clothes and one hand still restrained by the handcuffs attached to the waist chain. The individual was then positively identified as Donnie Stevenson. Following medical treatment, Stevenson was returned to the jail and rebooked on one count of Simple Escape and one count of Resisting an Officer. Stevenson is in the process of being transferred to another facility.

At this time, it is believed that Stevenson hid in the transport vehicle until everyone had gone inside, removed the orange jail uniform to remain in the gray thermal clothing provided for warmth, got one hand out of the handcuffs, and exited the van. From there, it is believed that Stevenson slid underneath the security gate of the loading dock area, which is when he was immediately spotted and reported. It is currently unknown how or where Stevenson acquired the black clothing he was wearing when captured.

As the investigation into the incident continues, TPSO is also reviewing the policies and procedures surrounding our transport process.

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 after 5pm. Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 64. East wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   A 40 percent chance of showers, with thunderstorms also possible after 3am. Patchy fog before midnight, then patchy fog after 3am. Otherwise, cloudy, with a low around 54. East wind around 5 mph. 

Thursday   A 70 percent chance of showers, and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. Patchy fog before noon. Otherwise, cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 73. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Thursday Night   A 30 percent chance of showers before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42. West wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 60. North wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 39. Calm wind.

Wanted in Pike County MS for Theft of Wreaths at Cemetery

Update: Pike County Sheriff's Office reported late Tuesday (December 16, 2025) evening that Angie Dillon is in custody

The Pike  County Sheriff’s Office reports that Angie Dillon is wanted in connection with the theft of wreaths that were placed at Osyka Cemetery in honor of fallen soldiers. These wreaths, meant to honor heroes, were unlawfully taken.

Dillon is wanted on the charges of Petty Larceny, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Minor, and Receiving Stolen Property.

If you have any information about the whereabouts of Angie Dillon, please contact the Pike County Sheriff’s Office at (601) 783-6767 or Crimestoppers of South-Central Mississippi at 888-755-8810. 

Obituary

Tinie May Skiffer Magee

September 15, 1952 - December 4, 2025

Neighbor Shoots Man Who Was Attacking Girlfriend in Mandeville Area

A man was killed by a neighbor as he attacked his girlfriend in a Mandeville-area subdivision early Monday (December 15, 2025) morning.

Shortly before 3 a.m. Monday, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to Richland Drive in the Greenleaves Subdivision near Mandeville in reference to gunshots and located a deceased male in a yard in the 200 block of East Richland Drive and a female suffering from apparent stab wounds.

Detectives with the STPSO Major Crimes Unit learned that the female had exited through a window of a residence and was attempting to get help from neighbors after her boyfriend attacked her inside the home. The boyfriend was attacking the female victim with a knife when a neighbor exited his residence and demanded he stop.  When the suspect refused and continued the attack his girlfriend, the neighbor fired his weapon, striking the suspect. The suspect was pronounced deceased at the scene. The deceased suspect has been identified by St. Tammany Parish Coroner Dr. Christopher Tape as 49-year-old Shawn Quinn. 

The female was transported to a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries.

The incident is still under investigation, and no charges have been filed at this time.  

“This was a violent and extremely dangerous situation that unfolded in local neighborhood during early morning hours,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “Based on the information we have at this time, the neighbor’s actions appear to have prevented further serious injury or loss of life. Our detectives will continue to thoroughly investigate to ensure all facts are reviewed.”

23-Year-Old Slidell Man Arrested on Numerous Child Sexual Abuse Material Charges

District Attorney Collin Sims announced yesterday (December 15, 2025) the arrest of 23-year-old Cameron Powell of Slidell, following a cyber tip regarding the illegal possession and dissemination of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), which led to further felony charges within the 22nd Judicial District.

On Monday, December 1, 2025, the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office Special Victims Unit (SVU) Task Force received a cyber tip from the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office involving an individual suspected of possessing and sharing CSAM in the jurisdiction. Investigators immediately acted on the information, which led to the identification of Powell.

Members of the Covington Police Department, Slidell Police Department, and the United States Homeland Security Investigations executed an arrest warrant for Powell the morning of Monday, December 15, 2025. A forensic examination of his electronic devices allegedly revealed numerous images of CSAM involving victims under the age of 13 and provided evidence that some of material was allegedly produced and distributed by Powell. During an interview, Powell allegedly admitted to possessing, producing, and distributing illegal material online.

Powell was arrested and booked on the charges of Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material Involving Victims Under the Age of 13 (313 counts),  Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material Involving Victims Under the Age of 13 (3 counts), Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material Involving Victims Under the Age of 13 (3 counts), Sexual Battery Involving Juveniles Under the Age of 13 (2 counts), Molestation of a Juvenile Involving Victim Under the Age of 13 (1 count), and Video Voyeuris (1 count). 

If convicted, Powell faces a sentencing range of 25 to 99 years in prison.

District Attorney Collin Sims issued the following statement: “Prior to the establishment of the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office SVU Task Force, this offender likely would not have been arrested due to the high volume of National Center for Missing and Exploited Children tips and the limited personnel available to address them. Special thanks go to DA Investigator/Covington Police Department Detective Brian Brown, the Slidell Police Department, and U.S. Homeland Security Investigations for investigating the case and effecting the arrest.”

The investigation remains ongoing, and additional charges or arrests are possible. This arrest is in affiliation with the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, led by Attorney General Liz Murrill.

Violent Offenses Earn Slidell Man a 35-Year Enhanced Sentence

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, a sentencing hearing was held in St. Tammany Parish for Dwight Ambo, age 35 and of Slidell. Ambo was sentenced to 35 years in the Department of Corrections without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence, following his conviction at trial for Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm.

Ambo was convicted on August 20, 2025 of the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Second Degree Battery, and Attempted Aggravated Assault with a Firearm. 

The court found Ambo to be a second felony offender on the Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm charge, resulting in the enhanced sentence of 35 years. Ambo also received concurrent sentences of 5 years in the Department of Corrections on the charges of Attempted Aggravated Assault with a Firearm and Second Degree Battery.

The conviction stems from an incident that occurred on July 17, 2023. Click here for the previous related article The defendant, Dwight Ambo, arrived at the home of the victim. The defendant began aggressively yelling and banging on the front door. A 13-year-old boy, the son of the victim’s girlfriend, began to open the door, and the defendant forcibly pushed his way inside the residence. Once inside, Dwight Ambo brandished a firearm and threatened to kill the victim before striking the victim in the face, breaking his nose. The defendant then fled the scene.

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Deputies who responded to the scene observed that the victim had multiple facial lacerations and was bleeding. The victim was transported to St. Tammany Parish Hospital (SMH) where he was diagnosed with a broken nose. The accounts given by the victim, his girlfriend, and her son were consistent. Video footage from the front door corroborated the accounts, showing the defendant yelling, banging on the door, and forcibly entering the home. The grip of a firearm was also visible in his pocket in the video.

Dwight Ambo was arrested a few weeks after the incident. He has an extensive criminal record including a prior conviction for manslaughter.

Assistant District Attorneys Luke Lancaster and Jason Cuccia handled the case. The case was investigated by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.

“The 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office is committed to seeking justice for victims of violent crime,” said District Attorney Collin Sims. “The lengthy sentence imposed in this case reflects the severity of Dwight Ambo’s actions and his history of criminal behavior. We will continue to aggressively prosecute those who use violence and weapons in our community.”

Obituary

Betty Jane Hatcher Edwards

May 16, 1944 - December 15, 2025

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 14-15, 2025

Alexis Delvalle (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Battery of a Dating Partner by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

Jessica Castleberry (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery (2 counts) and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (5 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Dallas Magee (age 29 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Eddie Roberts (age 50 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold. No bond set at this time.

Franchesca Davis (age 28 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

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

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 59. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.

Tonight   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. Calm wind.

Wednesday   A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Patchy fog after 5pm. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night   A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly after midnight. Patchy fog. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a low around 54. Southeast wind around 5 mph.

Thursday   A 60 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm after noon. Patchy dense fog before 11am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, with a high near 74. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon. 

Thursday Night   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before midnight. Partly cloudy, with a low around 42. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming north after midnight. 

Franklinton Man Found Guilty of Sex Crimes and More

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on Friday, December 12, 2025, a Washington Parish jury unanimously found Lindsey M. Dykes, age 32 and of Franklinton, guilty on all four counts brought against him. The verdict was returned late Friday afternoon following a four-day trial in the courtroom of Judge William H. Burris in Division E. The defendant was immediately remanded into custody of the Washington Parish Sheriff.

Dykes was found guilty of Felony Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile, Production of Child Pornography of a Juvenile, Possession of a Firearm by a Felon Convicted of Certain Felonies, namely attempted simple rape, and Possession of Controlled Dangerous Substance, Schedule I (Marijuana).

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorneys Zack Popovich and Le’Anne Malnar. The case was investigated through a joint effort by Detective Dana Atkins with the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office (EBRSO), Agent Terrence Smith with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Detective Demi Rice with the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO).

“This guilty verdict is a testament to the dedication of our Assistant District Attorneys, and the courage of the victims and witnesses who bravely came forward,” said District Attorney Collin Sims. “We are committed to seeking justice for every child victim in St. Tammany and Washington Parishes, and we will continue to hold accountable those who commit heinous crimes against the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The District Attorney’s Office will not be providing further comment on the specific details of the trial at this time to protect the sensitive nature of the case and the identities of the juvenile victims.

Sentencing for Lindsey M. Dykes has been scheduled for February 11, 2026.

Click here for previous bookings

Obituary

Bobby Don Prine

August 1, 1942 - December 13, 2025

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 48. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Tonight   Widespread frost after 9pm. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 26. Calm wind.

Tuesday   Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, increasing clouds, with a high near 59. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 42. Calm wind.

Wednesday   Partly sunny, with a high near 67. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 53. Southeast wind around 5 mph.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 13, 2025

Ledarvin Mingo (age 38 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (4 counts) and Failure to Pay Fine (6 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Hannah Harp (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Yield/Driveway Road or Alley and Possession of Marijuana by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Justin Davis (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a temperature falling to around 41 by 5pm. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 24. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 49. Wind chill values as low as 17 early. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Monday Night   Widespread frost, mainly after 9pm. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 28. Calm wind.

Tuesday   Widespread frost before 8am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 59. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.

Tuesday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 43. Calm wind.

Obituary

Bryan Thomas Reames

May 16, 1952 - December 12, 2025

Press the Button on Your Smoke Alarm

Most residents are familiar with protecting the traditional “Four P’s” during cold weather, People, Pets, Pipes, and Plants. This weekend, the Louisiana State Fire Marshal's Office is emphasizing a fifth P: Press.

Press the Button on Your Smoke Alarm

Residents are urged to press the test button on their smoke alarms to make sure they are working properly. This simple step can save lives. If the smoke alarm does not work, replace the battery or replace the unit with a newer smoke alarm that comes with 10-year sealed lithium batteries.

So far this year, 82 people have died in 63 house fires. Of those fires, only two homes had working smoke alarms.

These numbers underscore how critical it is for families to have functioning smoke alarms, especially during freezing weather when the use of heaters and other heat sources increases. A working smoke alarm gives families the critical early warning they need to get out safely.

A strong winter blast will push temperatures into the mid to upper 20s. So residents are reminded of the Five P’s:

• People - Dress in layers, check on vulnerable neighbors (elderly, children).

• Pets – Bring them inside or provide warm shelter.

• Pipes – Insulate or drip faucets to prevent freezing.

• Plants – Cover or bring sensitive plants indoors.

• Press – Press the test button on smoke alarms to ensure they are working.

Fire deaths remain high, and functioning smoke alarms are one of the most effective tools for early detection and escape.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 12, 2025

Dionte Fernandez (age 29 with Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Autumn Bonnet (age 29 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Heather McCann (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Jerry Johnson (age 38 with Folsom, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Seat Belt, Driving Under Suspension, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of Schedule III Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Otis Jupiter (age 25 with Baton Rouge, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation. No bond set at this time.

Ernest Frank (age 55 with Poplarville, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2000000.00.

Jamarcus Robinson (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Drugs, Prohibited Acts, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Anna White (age 52 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

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. Widespread dense fog, mainly before 8am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 72. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph. 

Tonight   A 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Patchy fog between midnight and 4am. Otherwise, increasing clouds, with a low around 46. Light and variable wind becoming north 5 to 10 mph after midnight. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Sunday   A 20 percent chance of showers before noon. Cloudy through mid morning, then gradual clearing, with a temperature falling to around 41 by 5pm. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph.

Sunday Night   Clear, with a low around 23. Wind chill values as low as 16. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 48. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.

Monday Night   Widespread frost, mainly after 8pm. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 27. Calm wind.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 10-11, 2025

Jeffrey Harvey (age 69 with Tacoma, Wa. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Careless Operation by the Franklinton Police Department. Released on $2750.00 bond.

Lawrence Fowler (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Prohibited Acts/Schedule II and Parole Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Cedric Bolds (age 26 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Gage Anderson (age 18 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s), Computed Aided Solicitation of a Minor, Pornography Involving Juvenile(s)/4 counts, and Contributing to Delinquency of Juvenile by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jimmie Warren (age 49 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Mark Stevens (age 62 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jonathan Langston (age 23 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Umeko Peters (age 36 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released December 11, 2025, no bond info shown.

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

Safe Haven Baby Box Coming to Franklinton

The Town of Franklinton is proud to support the future location of a Safe Haven Baby Box, a life saving resource that provides a safe, legal, and anonymous option for parents in crisis. These boxes are designed for newborns and allow a baby to be placed safely while immediately alerting first responders so care begins right away.

Safe Haven Baby Boxes save lives. They offer protection for infants and peace of mind for parents who may feel they have no other options. No shame. No blame. No names. Just safety, compassion, and a second chance.

This is an important step for Washington parish and a powerful reminder that caring for the most vulnerable has always been part of who we are. It takes a community to make something like this happen, and Franklinton is stepping up in a big way.

You can help bring this life saving resource to our town by donating or sharing this message. Every dollar and every share matters. Sometimes hope looks like a small box with a very big purpose. 

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture

Obituary

Deborah Kay Reynolds

September 22, 1954 - December 11, 2025

Obituary

Donald "Don" Jimmy Slaven

June 9, 1941 - December 10, 2025

Obituary

James Robert Singleton

January 30, 1936 - December 10, 2025

Obituary

Patricia Elaine Miller

December 1, 1956 - December 3, 2025

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Areas of frost before 8am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 59. Calm wind.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 40. Calm wind.

Friday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 68. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.

Friday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers before midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 51. Calm wind.

Saturday   A 20 percent chance of showers after noon. Partly sunny, with a high near 68. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.

Saturday Night   A 50 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 46. Light and variable wind becoming north 5 to 10 mph after midnight.

Tangipahoa Parish Jail Death Under Investigation

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating the death of 55-year-old Eugene Hickerson (pictured below), an inmate at the jail in Amite, on Wednesday afternoon (December 10, 2025).

Around 3 p.m., Hickerson was discovered unresponsive in his assigned dorm. Medical staff immediately began conducting life-saving measures, but unfortunately, he did not survive. Hickerson had been at the jail since October, when he was taken into custody for several counts of Simple Burglary and a Department of Corrections parole violation charge.

While that emergency was underway, another inmate in a separate dorm suffered a minor medical emergency that does not appear to be 
related.

Immediately following these back-to-back incidents, a contraband sweep was conducted in both dorms. No illegal narcotics were found during the operation.

The TPSO Criminal Investigations Division is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding this death, which will include an autopsy to determine the cause.

Obituary

William Herbert Nelson

February 23, 1949 - November 28, 2025

Santa & Mrs. Claus Coming to the Ruritan Club

DA Collin Sims and Law Enforcement Partners Announce Major Reductions in Fentanyl Deaths Across the Northshore

District Attorney Collin Sims has announced that a unified, multi-agency effort between the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and local law enforcement has produced historic reductions in fentanyl-related overdose deaths across the Northshore.

Over the past two years, the multi-agency “Trifecta” model – uniting federal, state, and local resources – has delivered unprecedented results:

•        St. Tammany Parish: 70% reduction in fentanyl overdose deaths.

•        Washington Parish: 58.5% reduction in fentanyl overdose deaths.

•        Tangipahoa Parish: 45.3% reduction in fentanyl overdose deaths.

“These numbers represent lives saved – sons, daughters, parents, and friends,” said District Attorney Collin Sims. “This is what happens when agencies remove silos, share intelligence, and focus relentlessly on stopping the supply chain that is killing our community. We are proud to stand with the DEA and our law enforcement partners to protect our citizens from this poison.”

A Partnership Model That Works

The Trifecta strategy is built on three pillars that directly support public safety in the 22nd Judicial District:

• Transnational Disruption: Targeting the command, control, and financial networks of major drug-trafficking cartels responsible for supplying fentanyl to the region.

• Unbreakable Local Partnerships: Combining DEA, Sheriff’s Offices, Police Departments, the Coroner’s Offices, and the DA’s Office into a unified Fentanyl Overdose Response Team for rapid response and intelligence sharing.

• Local Accountability – Including Murder Charges and Life Sentences: The 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office continues to aggressively pursue second-degree murder charges – which carry mandatory life sentences – against traffickers whose distribution results in death. “If you deal the drug that kills someone in our district, we will seek the highest charges available under Louisiana law,” said DA Sims. “Accountability saves lives, and dealers will be held fully responsible for the devastation they cause.”

Remembering the Lives Lost

Two families – those of Nicholas Platt and Jacob Massi – shared emotional testimony about the loved ones they lost to fentanyl poisoning.

“We owe it to families like these to continue this fight,” DA Sims said. “Their courage strengthens our commitment to holding dealers accountable and preventing future tragedies.”

The public is encouraged to learn more about fentanyl dangers and prevention resources at dea.gov/fentanylfree.

The following agencies participate in the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office Opioid Prevention & Awareness (OPA) Initiative: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – including the Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), United States Attorney’s Office, Louisiana State Police – Region I Violent Crimes/Narcotics Division, Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries, 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office, 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Slidell Police Department – Narcotics and Violent Crimes Division, Covington Police Department, Pearl River Police Department, Bogalusa Police Department, Hammond Police Department, Mandeville Police Department, and Fire District No. 1.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 9, 2025

Daniel Crumedy (age 63 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated  Second Degree Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Lonzell Sims (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Negligent Injuring and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Lisa Beard (age 54 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Amwaste and Washington Parish Government Agreement Extended

Source: Press Release from Amwaste

"Amwaste and Washington Parish Government have signed an agreement for another (4) years for solid waste collection. The working relationship between Washington Parish Government, Amwaste and its predecessors has spanned more than two decades and still counting. 

Amwaste has an office located off Highway 16 right outside the town limits of Franklinton, as well as an office in Tangipahoa Parish. The dedicated employees that serve the Washington Parish area have an average tenure of 11.3 years, with one of their employees, Ellis May, recently retiring with over 20 years.

Amwaste is excited to continue this relationship with Washington Parish and look forward to another 4 years."

Amwaste provides residential, commercial and industrial waste services to several parishes in Louisiana. Go to their Facebook page for more information.

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

LSU AgCenter Taking Orders for Sweet Potato "Seed"

Sweet potatoes are well-adapted to our hot, humid summers. Besides the nutritious roots that we normally eat, young leaves of sweet potato can be consumed as well. They can be sautéed, boiled, or even eaten raw.

Growing sweet potatoes is different from growing white (“Irish”) potatoes or vegetables that are grown from true seed. The production cycle begins when sweet potatoes (“seed”) from the previous harvest season are planted in the spring, to produce slips for transplanting.

Gardeners who just want to plant a few hills of sweet potatoes can often find slips for sale at local garden centers. These can be planted between late April and the end of June in southern Louisiana.

Those who plan to plant a large area of sweet potatoes or want a specific variety may prefer to grow their own slips. Sweet potatoes can be bedded for slip production beginning around mid-March in southern Louisiana. Allow six to eight weeks for slips to grow.

It’s important that the roots used for slip production are free of disease and of good quality. The LSU AgCenter’s Sweet Potato Research Station offers seed potatoes grown from virus-tested planting material through its foundation seed program.

The variety Beauregard is available for $25 per 40-pound box or $16 per 20-pound box. Avoyelles, Bayou Belle, Evangeline, and Orleans roots can be purchased in a 40-pound box for $30 or a 20-pound box for $16. Bonita, Bellevue, Murasaki-29, O’Henry, and Sakura are available at $16 per 20-pound box.

The Sweet Potato Research Station will sell slips of most of the above-mentioned varieties as well as several others – Burgundy, Heart-o-Gold, Okinawan, Porto Rico, and Vermilion – in the spring. The price is expected to be $0.45 per slip with a minimum order of 100 slips ($45). This is more than you would likely pay for slips from local retailers, but it gives people a chance to purchase slips of varieties that they might not otherwise be able to find.

Beauregard is a classic Louisiana sweet potato variety that was released by the Louisiana Agricultural Experiment Station in 1987. Orleans is similar to Beauregard but produces more uniform roots. This is important for commercial growers who are trying to maximize production of U.S. No. 1 grade sweet potatoes but probably not that important in a home garden.

Evangeline produces roots that have a high sucrose content and taste especially sweet. While microwaving typically does not result in sweet potatoes that are as sweet as those baked in an oven, because of its high sucrose content, Evangeline sweet potatoes can be microwaved and still taste sweet. From a production standpoint, Evangeline has the advantage of being resistant to southern root knot nematodes.

Avoyelles is the LSU AgCenter sweet potato breeding program’s newest release. It can be harvested earlier than other varieties, with roots maturing in approximately 90 days instead of the 110 to 120 days after slip planting that most varieties need. Like Evangeline, it’s resistant to southern root knot nematodes.

Information about most other varieties can be found on the LSU AgCenter Sweet Potato Research Station’s website.

The Sweet Potato Research Station takes seed orders via an online form (https://lsu.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_es6CkGZzftx4NKe). Orders placed online are due by Friday, January 16, 2026. If you’re in Tangipahoa or Washington Parish and do not have internet access, please contact me by Monday, January 12, 2026, to place your order.

If you want to order slips, contact the Sweet Potato Research Station directly (318-435-2155), beginning in late March.

Under sweet potato weevil quarantine regulations, growers in Louisiana who raise sweet potatoes to sell are required to have a Sweet Potato Dealer’s Permit from the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry. Home gardeners are not required to have a permit but are encouraged to take measures to reduce weevil populations.

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).

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Patchy dense fog before 8am. Patchy frost before 8am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 67. Southwest wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 37. North wind around 5 mph.

Thursday   Areas of frost between 7am and 8am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 60. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 40. Calm wind.

Friday   Mostly sunny, with a high near 70. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.

Friday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 52. Calm wind.