Linda Bryant Pope
May 24, 1949 - June 25, 2025
June 27, 2025
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 26, 2025
Chad Blackwell (age 21 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Non-Consensual Disclosure of Private Picture by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $15000.00 bond.
Billy Thorbjornsen (age 58 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Bank Fraud by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Ashley Jones (age 40 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s) and Accessory After the Fact by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Corey Ard (age 21 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of a Firearm or Carrying of a Concealed Weapon by a Person Convicted of Domestic Abuse Battery, Possession of Marijuana, and No Seat Belt by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Misty Stewart (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Criminal Conspiracy by Rayborn Correctional Center. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Watermelon Festival is July 11-13 in Franklinton
Mark Your Calendars! The Washington Parish Watermelon Festival is set for July 11-13, 2025 with a parade, 🍉 Juicy melons, 👑 Festival Queens, 🎶 Live music, 🐎 Ranch Rodeo, 🍉 Watermelon Auction and Contest, 🎆 Fireworks Spectacular! 🎆, 🥘 Food, Vendors & Family fun! And, of course, 🍉🍉WATERMELONS.
Learn all about it on the Washington Parish Watermelon Facebook page
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 4pm and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 92. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Saturday A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 10am. Mostly sunny, with a high near 91. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Sunday A 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 1pm and 4pm, then showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 4pm. High near 90. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 10pm, then a slight chance of showers between 10pm and 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Tropical Disturbances Today
An area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms is over the northwestern Caribbean sea and the adjacent land areas and is expected to move west-northwestward into the Bay of Campeche Saturday or Saturday night, where an area of low pressure could form. Subsequent development is possible on Sunday or Monday if the system remains offshore of the coast of Mexico. Regardless of development, locally heavy rains are possible over portions of Belize, Guatemala, and southeastern Mexico during the next few days. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent. No impacts forecasted for the local area for the next week.
June 26, 2025
Amite Police Arrest Suspect for Theft - Also, Was Wanted Sex Offender
On Wednesday (June 25, 2025), at approximately 3:19 PM, the Amite City Police Department responded to a reported theft at Walmart in Amite, Louisiana.
Upon arrival, officers were provided a description of the suspect, who had fled the store on a bicycle. Officers quickly located the individual traveling westbound on W. Oak Street near the I-55 overpass.
The suspect, later identified as 50 year-old Trace Bell of Roseland, refused to comply with officers and attempted to evade capture by continuing westbound on his bicycle. As an officer exited his patrol unit on the shoulder of the roadway, Bell collided with the vehicle’s driver-side door. He then attempted to flee the scene on foot but was apprehended shortly after.
Bell has been charged with the following: Theft, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Simple Criminal Damage to Property, and Fugitive from the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Department for failing to register as a sex offender.
The Amite City Police Department would like to thank the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Department for their assistance during the apprehension.
Joint Investigation Leads to Two Child Exploitation Arrests
An investigation into child exploitation by the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit, working in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, concluded with the arrest of 23-year-old Caden A. Rampino of Covington and 25-year-old Justin K. Dixon of Plaucheville.
Each individual was charged with Indecent Behavior with Juveniles and Computer-aided Solicitation of a
Minor. In addition to the above charges, Dixon was booked on Attempted Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile. Both were booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center on June 26, 2025. These cases remain under investigation.
The Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit works to rescue and seek justice for victims of child exploitation and human trafficking through partnerships with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as public education. The public plays a crucial role in identifying suspects and reporting criminal or suspicious activity. An anonymous reporting form is available online at http://la-safe.org/ by clicking the “Suspicious Activity” link. Your vigilance helps protect vulnerable members of our communities and supports the fight against exploitation and trafficking.
Washington Parish Sheriff Joins Forces With ADAPT, Inc.
On Wednesday (June 25, 2025), Washington Parish Sheriff Smith and ADAPT, Inc. Executive Director
Rusty Fornea signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) that will bring their organizations together in the battle against substance abuse in Washington Parish. The MOU marks a significant step forward for the Sheriff’s Office as they will now have new tools at their disposal to deal with those suffering from substance abuse and mental health disorders.
The majority of the crimes committed in Washington Parish are linked to the use, sale, or trafficking of illicit drugs. Often, mental health and behavioral disorders are closely tied to illegal drug use and abuse. This puts our Deputies in constant contact with drug addicts and those suffering from mental health disorders in their day-to-day duties.
As a result, the Washington Parish Jail serves as a natural funnel for drug users and abusers, and creates an opportunity for the Sheriff and ADAPT’s rehab specialists to identify and treat individuals for substance use disorder and mental illness. The collaboration, guided by the newly signed MOU under HRSA Grant #G28RH46312, reflects a shared commitment to health-focused public safety strategies.
Through this collaboration:
- ADAPT will provide WPSO officers with specialized training in harm reduction, overdose response using naloxone (Narcan), trauma-informed approaches, and Mental Health First Aid.
- Narcan kits and fentanyl test strips will be made available to WPSO deputies to use in emergency overdose situations.
- WPSO personnel will work closely with Project ADAPT’s peer support specialists to identify incarcerated individuals who may benefit from recovery services and assist in comprehensive reentry planning.
- Both organizations will advocate for improved access to treatment for incarcerated individuals and share community resource information to streamline referrals to housing, employment, and recovery support.
“This is about saving lives,” said Sheriff Smith. “Our Deputies are on the front lines every day, and with the training and resources provided by ADAPT, we’ll be better equipped to respond to overdose emergencies and support individuals on a path to recovery.”
The agreement will remain in effect through August 31, 2026, with both organizations committed to ongoing evaluation, open communication, and strengthening this essential alliance.
For more information on Project ADAPT or available resources, visit www.adaptwp.org or call (985) 735-0160.
Washington Parish Sheriff Welcomes Four New Deputies
On Tuesday (June 24, 2025), four Washington Parish Deputy Sheriffs completed their POST-1 certification at C.A.R.T.A. (Capital Region Training Academy), hosted by the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. They will now transition to three months of one-on-one field training with an experienced supervisor to gain the necessary skills and insight required of Washington Parish Deputy Sheriffs.
The POST-1 certification academy consists of four months of intense training that prepares Law Enforcement Professionals for success in their fields. Recruits are put through rigorous courses in Law Enforcement, emergency management, medical triage, crime scene investigation, firearms and non-lethal training, physical fitness and self-defense training, and the ethics and philosophies that will guide them in their duties.
Congratulations to Deputies Hunter Cook, Darius Martinez, Alex Martin, and James Seal on this milestone in their careers, and welcome aboard. From everyone here at the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, thank you for the hard work and dedication you’ve shown up to this point. Now it’s time to get to work!
Pictured above left to right: Lieutenant Geoff Crowe, Chief Deputy Kyle Varnado, Deputy Alex Martin, Deputy James Seal, Captain Corbet Hunt, Deputy Hunter Cook, Deputy Darius Martinez, Captain Kevin Bond, and Sergeant Stan Heinrich.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 25, 2025
Gregory Vernon (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Simple Battery, and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Damarea Gay (age 24 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Careless Operation With Accident and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
William Rosamond (age 36 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Stolen Things 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $12000.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Bogalusa City Council Meeting Re-Scheduled
The Tuesday (July 1, 2025) meeting of the Bogalusa City Council has been cancelled and re-scheduled for Thursday, July 3, 2025.
Today's Message from ADAPT
Did you know your brain keeps developing into your late 20s? That’s why what you do now matters. When teens use marijuana, it can interfere with the growth of the prefrontal cortex — the part of the brain responsible for decision-making, motivation, and judgment. Your brain is building the foundation for your future. Protect it. Choose wisely.
ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are
- To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
- To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
- To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
- To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse.
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 and thunderstorms, mainly between 2pm and 5pm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.
Tonight A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 9pm. Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Friday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Saturday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Saturday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
June 25, 2025
Three Arrested in Grandmother’s Shooting Death
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has arrested a Tickfaw man and two others in connection with the shooting death of his grandmother, 65 year-old Annette Jackson of Tickfaw, over the weekend.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Around 8:45 p.m. Saturday (June 21, 2025) night, a shooting was reported at a home in the 14000 block of Pine Road in the Tickfaw area. Deputies arrived to find Jackson outside of the her home suffering from a gunshot wound to the neck. She was transported to an area hospital, but did not survive.
During the investigation, detectives learned Dillon, who lived at the home with Jackson, his grandmother, shot her through the closed, locked front door as she was returning to the home from the grocery store. Dillon then fled the scene without alerting anyone about the incident or trying to get Jackson any medical help. Following a warrant issued for his arrest, Dillon turned himself in Sunday afternoon. In the following days, Nijah Dillon, Jaiden’s sister, and her boyfriend, Benjamin White, were also arrested for helping Dillon evade arrest.
This investigation is still ongoing and Sheriff Gerald Sticker asks anyone with information about this incident to contact our Criminal Investigations Division at 985-902-2088.
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 directly to Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.
Amite Jail Sweep Nets Contraband - Arrests Coming!
Drugs, weapons, and various other types of contraband have been uncovered in a multi-agency shakedown effort at the Tangipahoa Parish Jail that is expected to lead to multiple arrests.
On Tuesday (June 24, 2025) morning, more than 100 law enforcement personnel from TPSO, Rayburn Correctional Center and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office conducted a full-scale search of the entire facility. The operation turned up drugs, makeshift weapons and other prohibited items like cellphones.
The jail sweep had been in planning for several weeks as it is part of TPSO’s new operational standards for the jail under Sheriff Gerald Sticker.
Investigations into the introduction of the contraband located in this effort are underway and are expected to result in additional charges for involved inmates as well any non-inmates identified as having played a part in the facilitation or distribution of the contraband.
The TPSO would like to express our sincere gratitude to the law enforcement partners who assisted with this effort for their dedication and diligence through the operation.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 24, 2025
Rayfus Burris (age 61 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Pay Old Fine and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $200.00 bond.
Jon Mooney (age 35 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Kayla Morris (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (4 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, No Seat Belt, and Driving Under Suspension by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
William Brumfield (age 25 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (4 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts), and No Seat Belt by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Kyle Gornor (age 38 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. 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 Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Thursday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind.
Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Friday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind.
Friday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
June 24, 2025
𝗙𝗿𝗲𝗲 𝗢𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗛𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗘𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗡𝗼𝘄 𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲!
The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries has partnered with the NRA - National Rifle Association of America to offer 𝗳𝗿𝗲𝗲, 𝗼𝗻𝗹𝗶𝗻𝗲 𝗵𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝗱𝘂𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗰𝗲𝗿𝘁𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 for Louisiana residents!
This award-winning course is designed and provided by the organization that built the first-ever hunter education program in the U.S. in 1949! With 𝟭𝟱 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗶𝘃𝗲 𝗰𝗵𝗮𝗽𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀 packed with engaging videos, graphics, and real-life visuals, you can complete it 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘁𝗶𝗺𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝘆𝘄𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲—𝗮𝘁 𝗻𝗼 𝗰𝗼𝘀𝘁.
💬 𝗟𝗗𝗪𝗙 𝗦𝗲𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘆 𝗧𝘆𝗹𝗲𝗿 𝗕𝗼𝘀𝘄𝗼𝗿𝘁𝗵 𝘀𝗮𝗶𝗱:
”Promoting safe and ethical hunting is our priority. That’s why LDWF is proud to partner with the NRA to offer the public a free online option for hunter education certification. This partnership expands access to this required course, giving more people the opportunity to get certified conveniently and at no cost.”
Louisiana AG Liz Murrill Announces Major Legal Action Against CVS
Today (June 24, 2025), Attorney General Liz Murrill announced three separate lawsuits against CVS Health Corp, CaremarkPCS Health, LLC, and their affiliated entities for unfair, deceptive, and unlawful practices that have harmed Louisiana patients, independent pharmacies, and the public at large. The State is seeking both injunctive relief and restitution.
“Today, I have filed multiple lawsuits against CVS Health Corp, CaremarkPCS Health, LLC, and their affiliated entities for unfair, deceptive, and unlawful practices that have harmed Louisiana patients and independent pharmacies. CVS used their customers' personal information that was given to them to fill their prescription, to lobby for their own corporate interests against pending legislation in the State Legislature. PBM’s are not managing the costs of drugs – they are driving the price up! CVS and other PBM’s continue to hide behind various confidentiality clauses to cover up they way they are manipulating drug prices – it’s wrong and unlawful. CVS will have to account for its actions.” - Attorney General Murrill
Lawsuit 1 – Text Messages
On July 11, 2025, CVS sent urgent text messages to customers—illegitimately using contact information obtained under the guise of prescription and health notifications—to oppose House Bill 358. These texts and other forms of communication were inaccurate, misleading, and deceptive. They were clearly intended to incite fear among vulnerable people regarding their medical needs to garner their support to lobby the legislature against pending legislation that CVS opposed. In every respect, CVS’s use of its pharmacy customers’ contact information to send text messages spreading lies to serve its own political agenda of maintaining its anti-competitive economic position—to the obvious detriment of the public interest—creates unethical and deceptive acts, in violation of public policy and established standards of decency.
Lawsuit 2 – PBM Abuse
CVS Caremark controls multiple, interlocking stages of the pharmaceutical supply and reimbursement chain—from insurance to drug pricing, to pharmacy distribution and dispensing. This structure gives it market power not just horizontally (as one of the largest PBMs), but vertically across multiple tiers of the healthcare system. For Example:
CVS Caremark acquired Aetna in 2018—one of the largest health insurers in the United States. Through Aetna, CVS designs and manages plans that use Caremark as the PBM and CVS as the pharmacy. Aetna operates in Louisiana across multiple plan types, including: Medicaid, Medicare, individual and small business
CVS operates MinuteClinics, HealthHUBs, and home infusion services, and provides chronic care and medication adherence programs (run through the PBM and pharmacy), and therefore has vertical control over diagnosis, prescription, and fulfillment.
In addition, CVS’s rebate system causes drugs to cost more than they would in a properly functioning competitive market. In a competitive market, price competition should drive lower prices over time, especially when generic or biosimilar alternatives are available. Through the use of a foreign group purchasing organization, CVS can even obscure actual net drug costs and enable double dipping of rebates and administration fees.
Lawsuit 3 – Harm to Louisiana Independent Pharmacies
CVS’s business practices with the independent pharmacies of Louisiana constitute unfair competition, and are deceptive and substantially harmful to the public, in violation of La. R.S. 51:1405. Specifically, CVS’s abuse of its enormous market power to impose unethical and exceedingly high fees on independent pharmacies—under threat of being expelled from the CVS network—amounts to unfair competition and unfair trade practice. CVS is abusing its enormous market power to engage in covert spread pricing to further enrich itself at the expense of the independent pharmacies in its network.
“For too long, big drug middlemen called PBMS, have inflated drug prices and taken advantage of Louisianans. I’m proud to stand with Attorney General Liz Murrill in holding them accountable. This month, CVS went too far by sending a politically charged and unethical message to its customers, and we won’t let that go unanswered. In Louisiana, we refuse to be intimidated by the fear tactics of these middlemen. Our focus remains on lowering drug prices and ensuring a fair, transparent pharmaceutical market," said Governor Landry.
Click here for the press release and links to supporting documents
Three Arrested for Intimidation of a Witness at Washington Parish Courthouse
During a murder trial yesterday (June 24, 2025) at the Washington Parish Courthouse, three individuals allegedly made verbal threats to several witnesses in the case just outside the courtroom.
Deputies were initially notified of a possible situation occurring at the courthouse, across the street from the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and quickly responded. Upon arrival, the witnesses stated that three individuals had said to them, “I’ll do you something,” and “I’ll roll up on you,” as they were leaving the courtroom. Several people, including court officials, heard the statements come from the group of men.
22 year-old Camryn Hausey, 22 year-old Neolandd Erin Archie, and 21 year-old Chaz Elijah Nobles, all of Baton Rouge, were subsequently arrested as they waited outside the courthouse, and each was charged with Intimidation of a Witness. All three individuals are being held at the Washington Parish Jail. No Bonds have been set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Some Licenses and Certifications Related to Landscape Horticulture Work
I occasionally get questions from people who are interested in getting into landscape-related work for pay. The easiest type to get into is general yard work, including mowing, edging, and hand-weeding. Without a state license, as long as the work is not on commercial property, one can also engage in “trimming of hedges and shrubbery, under the direction and responsibility of the owner of the property” and pruning trees “under the specific direction and responsibility of the owner of the property” if “the branch to be removed is two inches or less in diameter and is within ten feet of ground level.”
If a person is paid a fee for doing landscape work beyond what is described above, Louisiana generally requires a license. A Landscape Horticulturist license allows a person to do things such as preparing beds, installing landscape plants or sod, giving advice on plant selection and placement, fertilizing, and doing shrub pruning beyond what is described in the above paragraph. Licensing requires passing an exam administered by the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) and paying a fee. The study guide for the exam is called The Louisiana Manual for the Environmental Horticulture Industry and can be ordered from the Louisiana Nursery and Landscape Association.
It’s not required by law, but some people who do landscaping work also choose to get Certified Nursery and Landscape Professional (CNLP) certification through the Louisiana Nursery and Landscape Association (LNLA). The study guide for this is the same one for the state license exam. LNLA hosts CNLP manual review and exam sessions.
One thing that a Landscape Horticulturist license does not allow people to do is to be paid for a landscape plan itself. While a Landscape Horticulturist can draw plans while preparing to install plants, they cannot sell a landscape design itself. In Louisiana, to do this, one must be licensed as a Landscape Architect. (Describing what’s required to become a landscape architect is beyond the scope of this article.)
Another profession for which state licensure is required is arborists. These are people who, as well as removing trees, care for them by doing things such as pruning, fertilizing, and cabling. As with the Landscape Horticulturist license, to attain the Arborist license, one must pass an exam and pay a fee. The study guide for this exam is the Arborists' Certification Study Guide from the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA). There is a separate certification, Utility Arborist, for those who remove trees or prune “along utility rights of way.”
There are also options to get tree work credentials beyond the required state license. For example, some people choose to become Certified Arborists through ISA.
People who do landscape work sometimes want to be able to, for example, apply herbicides for lawn weeds or use fungicides or insecticides on landscape plants. State law requires those who apply herbicides, insecticides, fungicides, or other pesticides to others’ landscapes for a fee to have a pesticide applicator’s license and commercial applicator certification. (For Arborists, there is an exception that allows application of “…pesticides only for the purposes of retarding decay or disease.”) Those who will be applying pesticides to landscape plants and turfgrass take a general standards exam and the ornamental and turf pest control exam. The study materials for these are the National Pesticide Applicator Certification Core Manual and the Ornamental and Turf Pest Management study guide, respectively. Both can be ordered from LSU AgCenter’s Online Store.
For more information about Landscape Horticulturist, Arborist, and related licenses and permits, you can check out LDAF’s Nursery and Landscape Licensing website (https://www.ldaf.la.gov/plants/nurseries-landscaping). People interested in hiring someone can also use this website to find names of licensed individuals. For information on pesticide licenses, see LDAF’s Pesticide Licensing website (https://www.ldaf.la.gov/plants/pesticides/pesticide-licensing).
There will likely be other requirements for operating a landscape-related business, such as a business license from the local government entity in which it’s based. Organizations such as the Louisiana Small Business Development Center or your local chamber of commerce can likely provide guidance.
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).
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 23, 2025
Cameryn Hausehy (age 22 with Baton Rouge, La. address) was booked on the charge of Intimidating of a Witness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Nealondd Archie (age 22 with Baton Rouge, La. address) was booked on the charge of Intimidating of a Witness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Chaz Nobles (age 21 with Baton Rouge, La. address) was booked on the charge of Intimidating of a Witness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Patrick Jordan (age 50 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Principle to Criminal Damage by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
James Willie (age 22 with Waveland, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Inspection Sticker/Expired or None, No Insurance, Drivers License Not on Person, Aggravated Obstruction of Commerce/Roadway, Illegal Tinted Windshield/Side Windows, Improper Lane Usage, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Tropical Disturbances Today
A small gale-force low-pressure system is located about 900 miles east-northeast of Bermuda. This system will likely become a short-lived tropical storm later today before more hostile environmental conditions end development by this evening. The low is forecast to move northeastward at around 15 to 20 mph while remaining over the open central Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...70 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...70 percent.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 2pm and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the morning. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 72. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Wednesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 96. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Thursday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph.
Thursday Night A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
June 23, 2025
Woman from Sun Caught With Drugs in Stuffed Monkey
The below is how the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office reported this June 17, 2025 incident:
🎒𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝘾𝙖𝙣'𝙩 𝙋𝙖𝙘𝙠 𝙏𝙝𝙖𝙩, 𝙎𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙞𝙙𝙖🙄
Turns out TSA isn’t the only crew that checks bags.
STPSO Narcotics detectives pulled over a Dodge Challenger near I-12 in Slidell and located a children’s stuffed monkey backpack (𝙔𝙀𝙎 𝙍𝙀𝘼𝙇𝙇𝙔👀) and inside it they located 362 grams of methamphetamine, 28 grams of marijuana, two THC vapes, and drug paraphernalia.
And no, there were no kids in sight. Just 56-year-old Sherida Graham of Sun, who apparently thought she could outsmart law enforcement with a furry decoy from the toy aisle.
She was promptly arrested and escorted to Club St. Tammany🔗. Next time Sherida…try packing snacks …not felonies.
Charges include Possession with Intent to Distribute Meth, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
TPSO's Mounted Division Captures Shoplifter
On Saturday (June 21, 2025), Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) assisted the Ponchatoula Police Department (PPD) with a shoplifting case that occurred during a store’s grand opening.
Theresa Prine, age 35, was issued a summons by PPD for Felony Theft in connection with the incident.
TPSO’s Mounted and Marine division was present at the new Tractor Supply store on I-55 Service Road in Ponchatoula. A woman walked out of the store with a full shopping cart full of tools and equipment she hadn’t paid for. When the store owner confronted the woman, she ran away. But the two TPSO Mounted teams present chased after the woman and were able to detain her until PPD arrived due to the store being in their jurisdiction. It was determined the cart the woman was trying to leave with contained more than $1200 worth of merchandise.
“It may often appear that our Mounted Division comes around just for show and smiles, but these teams are skilled and trained as crime-fighting and prevention resources, including crowd control and, like in this case, foot-versus-hoof pursuits,” said Sheriff Gerald Sticker.
The TPSO stands ready to assist our law enforcement partners at any time and at any type of event.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 21-22, 2025
Walter Fair (age 35 with New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $25000.00 bond.
Kristie McCain (age 32 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.
Dianna Drawdy (age 50 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to Infirm and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $8022.25.
Lonnie Starnes (age 49 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Prohibited Acts/Schedule II and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.
Evanda Hennis (age 37 with Purvis, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Armed Robbery at Dollar General Store in McComb
The Pike County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an armed robbery that occurred at the Dollar General
Store located at 3175 MS Hwy 570, McComb, MS 39648, on June 17, 2025.
At approximately 10:09 PM, a lone male suspect approached the store shortly after closing time, forcing entry through the front door. The suspect, described as approximately 6 feet tall, was masked and demanded cash while brandishing a firearm.
The store's clerk, who was inside during the incident, was threatened and instructed to provide cash from the register. The suspect exited the store with an undisclosed amount of U.S. currency.
We are urging anyone with information regarding this incident to contact the Pike County Sheriff’s Office at 601-783-6767 or to report tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 888-755-8810 where you can remain anonymous. Your assistance is invaluable in helping us bring this matter to a swift resolution.
STPSO Investigating: Two Deceased in Mandeville-area Shooting, One Deceased in Slidell Stabbing
Shooting Incident: The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office is investigating a shooting incident that occurred Friday (June 20, 2025) afternoon on Jasmine Street near Mandeville and that resulted in two fatalities. Immediately upon deputies’ arrival, a male exited the home and fired multiple times in the direction of deputies. Deputies attempted to talk the subject into putting down his weapon, at which time the subject resumed firing upon deputies, who returned fire. The female was located deceased inside the residence, and the male subject was transported to a local hospital. Later, STPSO deputies were notified that the male subject succumbed from his injuries while at the hospital and was pronounced deceased.. The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office has taken possession of the bodies of both decedents, and no more information will be known until after autopsies are completed.
Stabbing Incident: Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office are investigating after a Slidell woman claims she stabbed an acquaintance after he attempted to rape her. The incident occurred Saturday (June 21, 2025) afternoon. STPSO deputies responded to a residence in the 1100 block of Talbot Lane near Slidell and deputies located the distraught woman outside her residence, covered in blood. Inside, they located a deceased male subject with apparent stab wounds.
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 and thunderstorms, mainly after 4pm. Sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the morning.
Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Wednesday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Tropical Disturbances Today
An area of low pressure is located about 600 miles east of Bermuda. Environmental conditions are still marginally favorable for further development, and a short-lived tropical depression could form today. By Tuesday, this system is expected to encounter less favorable environmental conditions, ending its opportunity for development. The system is forecast to move northeastward around 10 mph, remaining over the open central Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...70 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...70 percent.
June 22, 2025
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly between 2pm and 5pm. Increasing clouds, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Calm wind.
Monday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the morning.
Tuesday Night A 30 percent chance of thunderstorms before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 72. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tropical Disturbances Today
A trough of low pressure is located about 500 miles east-southeast of Bermuda. Some slow development of this system is possible during the next couple of days before it moves into a region of strong upper-level winds. This system is expected to move northeastward over the central Atlantic during the next few days. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.
June 21, 2025
Man Wanted for Obscenity in St. Tammany Parish
Here's how the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reported on their Facebook page.
We’re going to keep this as straightforward as possible…because honestly, we wish we weren’t having to post it at all.
The individual pictured arrived at a Slidell area business around 9 p.m. on Father’s Day in a black mid-size SUV. He entered the store, got a bottle of water from the clerk who was closing up for the night, and then stepped back outside and allegedly decided it was the perfect time for a solo magic show. 🪄🙄
𝙎𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙡𝙚𝙧: 𝙄𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩.
This man is now wanted for 𝐨𝐛𝐬𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲 after reportedly engaging in a very inappropriate and illegal act…yes, that one…right there in the parking lot. Not in a private space, not behind closed doors… just out there like it was his own personal stage.
We say this with love: 𝐃𝐨𝐧’𝐭. 𝐃𝐨. 𝐓𝐡𝐚𝐭.
𝐈𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐫𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐠𝐧𝐢𝐳𝐞 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐦𝐚𝐧, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐭𝐚𝐜𝐭 𝐃𝐞𝐭𝐞𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐯𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐞 𝐚𝐭 (𝟗𝟖𝟓) 𝟕𝟐𝟔-𝟕𝟖𝟐𝟗 𝐨𝐫 𝐜𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐨𝐮𝐫 𝐦𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐞 𝐚𝐭 (𝟗𝟖𝟓) 𝟖𝟗𝟖-𝟐𝟑𝟑𝟖.
Let’s work together to keep our public spaces safe, respectful, and free of unsolicited... performances.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office Reports “Fentanyl, Foot Races & Bad Decisions" Incident
Here's how the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office reported a recent incident on their Facebook page.
Michael Daigrepont thought he could outrun the law (𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩'𝙨 𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙚☠️) with a pocket full of syringes, a handful of fentanyl, and a whole lot of bad life choices.
On June 10, this 47 year old Lacombe man decided the best move was to flee from our STPSO Proactive Enforcement Unit🚔 when they tried to stop him near the Lacombe traffic circle. Lights? Sirens? Legal obligations? Nah…he punched it.
The pursuit ended with Daigrepont driving like a fool through a residential neighborhood, blowing past stop signs, plowing through a ditch, and eventually bailing out on foot. Because nothing says “𝙞𝙣𝙣𝙤𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙩” like launching hypodermic needles and fentanyl tablets out of your pockets as you sprint into the woods into a knee deep bayou.
Spoiler alert: We brought him down, despite the mud, the fight, and the chaos.
He’s now cooling off at Club St. Tammany, booked on:
- 🔹 Possession of fentanyl
- 🔹 Possession of drug paraphernalia
- 🔹 Aggravated flight from an officer
- 🔹 Obstruction of justice
- 🔹 Resisting arrest
- 🔹 Driving like Grand Theft Auto is a documentary.
Next time, maybe just pull over. Or don’t…gives us a workout and we sometimes need the cardio.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 19-20, 2025
Candise Breshaers (age 36 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and
Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Eleysecia Bonner (age 30 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jessica Brown (age 32 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $20000.00.
Keldric Harry (age 18 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of 1st Degree Murder, Illegal Possession of a Handgun by a Juvenile, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, Attempted 1st Degree Murder (2 counts), Intimidation and Interference in the Operation of Schools, Hit and Run (2 counts), and No Drivers License. No bond set at this time.
Payton Lewis (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery, Disturbing the Peace/Violent & Tumultuous Manner, Simple Assault, Resisting an Officer, Self Mutilation by a Prisoner, and Intimidating of a Witness by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.
Ashton Greely (age 26 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $6000.00.
Valerie Carroll (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $2500.00.
Michael Weary (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Marijuana by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Killing Unwanted Woody Plants
People occasionally inquire about how to kill woody vines or unwanted shrubs or trees that keep regrowing in spite of being cut back severely.
An easy option that minimizes risk to nearby plants is to make what’s called a “cut stump” treatment using an herbicide that contains the active ingredient triclopyr.
When this type of application is made, the woody stem is cut near the ground, and the herbicide is applied to the freshly cut surface of the stump. Triclopyr moves down into the roots through the plant’s vascular tissue.
A number of triclopyr-containing products are labeled for cut stump application. BioAdvanced Brush Killer Plus Concentrate, Bonide Stump-Out Stump and Vine Killer, Fertilome Brush Killer Stump Killer, Ortho GroundClear Poison Ivy and Tough Brush Killer1, Pathfinder II, and Stump Stop are examples of products that are applied full-strength, without dilution, when used in this manner. (Look for products that are 8 to 13.6% triclopyr. Some products have similar names but much lower concentrations.)
There are also products with higher concentrations of triclopyr that can be used for stump treatment after being diluted.
The phloem tissue that carries the chemical to the roots is along the inner edge of the bark. So, make sure you get the herbicide along the outer edge of the stump surface and not just in the middle.
Triclopyr-containing products will kill or damage many types of plants, so be sure not to get them on plants you don’t want to kill. Also be aware that, if the treated plant shares a root system with another plant (for example, if one is a sucker of the other, or if roots have grafted together), the herbicide can kill or damage the other plant, too.
Be sure to read and follow label instructions when using any herbicide or other pesticide.
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).
Ponchatoula Man Arrested - Accused of Setting House Fire With Three People Inside
The State Fire Marshal's Office reported Friday (June 20, 2025) that SFM deputies arrested 42 year-old Joshua John Lucas on outstanding warrants for setting fire to a house with three people inside. Lucas has been booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on one count of Aggravated Arson and one count of Violation of a Protective Order.
On the afternoon of March 5, 2025, a fire was reported at a mobile home located in the 15000 block of East Hoffman Road in Ponchatoula. Three individuals were inside of the mobile home at the time of the fire, but were able to escape safely.
Following a request for SFM deputies to investigate the fire, it was determined that the origin of the fire was the exterior of the mobile home and that it was intentionally set. Through the investigation, Lucas was identified as the suspect.
The SFM would like to thank the Ponchatoula Fire Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Livingston Parish Sheriff’s Office for their extensive efforts to assist with closing this case.
Any information about this case, or any fire-related crime, can be shared with the SFM by calling our Arson Hotline at 1-844-954-1221 or by submitting an online tip form on lasfm.org. All information can be shared anonymously.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
Convenience Store Owner and Employees Arrested in Tangipahoa Parish
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office reported Friday (June 20, 2025) that TPSO, in collaboration with the Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control, has arrested a convenience store owner and his employees after a routine inspection uncovered dozens of illegal products on the shelves along with a larger-scale narcotics operation.
Earlier this week, an ATC agent, conducting a routine inspection, contacted TPSO after discovering a large amount of illegal products on the shelves of the Stop & Shop on Happywoods Road. The items included marijuana cigarettes and gummies suspected to contain THC, Kratom capsules, and bottles of a product known to replicate the effects of opioids.
As the team was leaving this location, deputies noticed two men running out of a different convenience store nearby, Best Stop Quick Mart #1, with their arms full of merchandise. Deputies responded to find more than $16,000 in cash as well as numerous THC vape pens, chewables, Hookah Lit vapes, Kratom capsules, and assorted other illegal substances in their vehicle. The investigation revealed the men were the store owner and his employee who were trying to hide the illegal products assuming the police activity they saw down the street came into this business. Both businesses are owned by Khuller. A final search at Khuller’s Ponchatoula-area home turned up more than $56,000.
Sunny Mehra, age 20, has been booked with two counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana and THC, along with one count each of Conspiracy to Distribute a Schedule I Controlled Dangerous Substance and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Hallucinogenic Compound.
Paras Khullar, age 20, and Sat Pal, age 47, were booked on the same charges, but both received an additional charge of Obstruction of Justice.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
Sheriff Gerald Sticker wants to thank the ATC for their partnership developing and closing this case.
Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office Hiring School Resource Officer
Message from the WPSO
The Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office is currently looking to fill one full-time School Resource Officer position.
School Resource Officers play a vital role in our organization, providing an invaluable connection between the students in our Parish and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office. In addition to ensuring safety on our campuses, SRO’s are carefully selected and trained to build positive relationships with students, staff, and parents, fostering a peaceful and secure learning environment in our schools. Their presence acts as a deterrent to violence and crimes among students, and they serve as liaisons between the youth of our community and Law Enforcement. Their influence, mentorship, and guidance is something that students take home with them each day, and radiates far beyond the walls of our campuses.
The ideal candidate will be enthusiastic about becoming part of the SRO community, represent themselves and the Sheriff’s Office with honor and pride, and be willing to collaborate with students and staff on ways that Law Enforcement can help them through special programs and events. In order to apply for this position, you must already be POST-1 certified in the State of Louisiana.
To apply, please visit our website at www.wpso.la.gov and click on the “Join our Team” tab, or stop by one of our offices to apply in-person.
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 and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny and hot, with a high near 95. Heat index values as high as 106. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Sunday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Monday A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Monday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 72. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
June 20, 2025
This Week in Louisiana Agriculture
From Jell-O shots that fight hunger to Louisiana-style sushi bowls, this episode of TWILA is full of the people and stories that make our state one of a kind. LSU fans are leading the Jell-O Shot Challenge in Omaha while raising money for food banks back home. Hay producers in Red River Parish turn out for the wet but well-attended inaugural LSU AgCenter Hay Day. We introduce you to the final Louisiana Farm Bureau YF&R Achievement Award finalist, Laura Hebert — a fourth-generation farmer bringing bold ideas and a newborn baby to her family farm. Then we’re off to Ville Platte for a brand new Feasting on Agriculture featuring a Cajun surf and turf sushi bowl. Plus, we celebrate 111 years of 4-H University in this week’s TWILA Boost.
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 and thunderstorms, mainly between 4pm and 5pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 94. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Tonight Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind.
Saturday A 30 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 94. Heat index values as high as 105. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph.
Saturday Night A slight chance of thunderstorms before 7pm. Partly cloudy, with a low around 73. Calm wind. Chance of precipitation is 10%.
Sunday A 50 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Sunny, with a high near 93. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 73. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
June 19, 2025
Another 4,000 Tapentadol Pills Taken Off the Streets in St. Tammany
In response to the recent influx of illegally obtained and distributed Tapentadol pills, detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Narcotics Division, Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Postal Inspection Service, conducted another investigation which led to a search warrant and an arrest.
Wilfred Cousin, age 31 and of Slidell, was arrested June 12, 2025 by detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Narcotics Division after a search warrant was executed at a residence in Slidell. Detectives recovered more than 4,000 Tapentadol pills and more than $900 in cash believed to be proceeds from drug sales. Cousin was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail for the following offenses: Possession with the Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS, Possession of a Schedule I CDS, and Transactions involving drug proceeds. Bond was set at $350,000.00.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
Tapentadol is a powerful and dangerous opioid that is being sold illegally under street names like “Pandas” or “200s.” They are sold on the street for $6-15 per pill. It is being marketed as a party pill and often comes in packaging that resembles over-the-counter medication and is especially dangerous when mixed with alcohol or other substances and has the potential to cause overdose or even death.
Sheriff Randy Smith would like to remind users and prospective users of “party drugs” that “When you purchase drugs off the street, you do not know truly what you are getting. The only safe drugs are those prescribed by a doctor or purchased from a reputable pharmacy.”
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