Janice "Sue" Knight
April 15, 1949 - May 5, 2025
May 06, 2025
Man Featured in STPSO ‘WhoDat Wednesday’ Post Arrested
A New Orleans man who was featured last month in one of the popular “Whodat Wednesday” posts of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office Facebook page has been arrested.
A man identified as 24 year-old Basil Martin, Jr. of New Orleans was featured after he was caught on camera stealing more than $2,000 worth of high-end curling irons, styling tools and perfumes from a Covington-area retailer.
An investigation into the theft resulted in STPSO Property Crimes detectives learning that an individual had stole merchandise valued at $2203.89 from the Covington-area retailer on March 7 and returned on March 10 with an accomplice to steal another $1571.91 worth of merchandise. It was also discovered on March 10, the same two men also stole merchandise valued at $65.98 from a neighboring business.
STPSO detectives identified the two men as Martin and his partner, 25 year-old Keith Gutter of Chalmette. They then requested the help of the New Orleans Police Department, who located Martin at has New Orleans residence on April 22, 2025 and booked him as fugitive.
Martin was then transported to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail where he was booked on warrants for committing similar crimes in Hammond. On April 29, 2025 he was transported to the St. Tammany Parish Jail, where he was booked on one count of Theft under $1,000 and two counts of theft between $1,000 and $5,000.
Gutter is still at large and is wanted for one count of Theft under $1,000 and one count of Theft between $1,000 and $5,000. Anyone with information about his whereabouts is asked to contact Property Crimes Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office by calling 985-276-1331.
Bogalusa City Council Agenda for May 6, 2025
The Bogalusa City Council will meet at 5:30 PM on May 6, 2025 at City Hall. The meeting will be streamed live at https://www.facebook.com/mthermonwebtv
The Agenda includes the following:
ADOPTIONS OF RESOLUTIONS:
- A RESOLUTION to hire Engineering Services for the City of Bogalusa relative to FY2026-2027 State of Louisiana Community Development Block Grants. LCDBG.
- A RESOLUTION authorizing the Fiscal Administrator to submit a pre-application and application to the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality to borrow up to $1,750,000 from the DEQ Clean Water Revolving Loan Fund to make repairs to the City's sewerage system.
- A RESOLUTION of the City of Bogalusa Purchasing And Disbursements Policy
INTRODUCTION OF ORDINANCES: NONE
PUBLIC HEARIINGS & ADOPTION OF ORDINANCES:
- AN ORDINANCE to abandon the alleyway in between the 1100 block of Church Street and the 1100 block of Convenience Street with the exception of servitude rights for public use.
- AN ORDINANCE setting AD Valorem Tax Rates and Levying such taxes for 2025, as required by Law.
- AN ORDINANCE to approve Walmart of Bogalusa Planned Site Improvement Project located at 401 Ontario Avenue as presented from the Bogalusa Planning and Zoning Commission.
- AN ORDINANCE to abandon the alleyway between the 1000 blocks of N. Redmond Street and the 1000 blocks of Convenience except for servitude rights for public use (Request at 1000 N. Royal Street).
Public Participation
Administrative Remarks
Other Council Discussion
Announcements: Next Council Meeting will be held on May 20, 2025 at 5:30 P.M.
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Termite Swarms Remind Us That These Creatures Are Nearby
Formosan subterranean termites swarm between April and July in Louisiana. Some drywood termites also swarm during this time. Swarms are made up of winged male and female termites (“alates”) that are searching for a mate. They lose their wings and go off with a partner to find a nesting site. Many die in this process, but those that succeed become the king and queen of a new colony.
Because Formosan termites swarm in the evenings and are attracted to lights, one way to minimize personal contact with them is to turn off outdoor lights during this time.
Most people who live in Louisiana are aware that steps need to be taken to prevent termite damage to houses and other buildings. Some of these things require a professional, but there are also steps we can take in the landscape to further reduce the chances of termite infestations.
When working in the landscape, avoid disturbing or covering the soil within one foot of the base of the house. A termiticide will typically have been applied in this area at the time of construction or under the terms of a termite contract, and activities in this area can reduce the protection it provides.
Landscape mulches are great in many circumstances, but don’t put them directly next to the base of the house. Termites can feed on mulches with wood or other cellulose-containing materials (cardboard, paper, etc.), and all types of mulch help maintain moist conditions that favor subterranean termites. Likewise, situate landscape plants so that, after they grow to their mature sizes, they’re still far enough from the house to allow you to easily check for signs of termite activity.
Remove fallen limbs and other dead wood from around the house, and take steps to prevent excessively moist conditions near the house.
Termites sometimes infest trees. While most types of termites only feed on dead or injured trees, Formosan termites readily feed on living trees and can increase their risk of falling. Shelter or mud tubes are one sign that a tree is likely to be infested. You can also use a trowel to check for termites in the soil near the base of the tree, next to the root flare. If an infested tree has a large pruning scar where a limb has been removed, “mud” and, during swarming season, winged termites can often be seen there.
If Formosan termites are identified from a tree that is not yet compromised to the extent that it is at an unacceptable risk of falling, a licensed pest control operator can be hired to inject an insecticide-containing foam into the tree.
Formosan termites seem to prefer some tree species to others. Pecan is one that they seem to like. Pecan trees tend to drop limbs and fall in storms, and their attractiveness to termites is another reason not to let them grow close to buildings.
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 May 4-5, 2025
Reshard Chisley (age 24 with Monroe, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.
Kevin Blackwell (age 45 with Bush, La. address) was booked on the charges of Brake Lights and Turn Signal Required/2, Expired License Plate, No Proof of Insurance, Driving Under Suspension, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
April Rayborn (age 43 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts), Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Dalton Caves (age 25 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Tavares Harrell (age 30 with Kenner, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted Simple Burglary, Criminal Damage, Resisting an Officer, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Possession of a Stolen Firearm (2 counts). No bond set at this time.
***All persons are 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 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. East wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight A 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 65. East wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between 2 and 3 inches possible.
Wednesday A 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 78. South wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.
Wednesday Night A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Thursday A 80% chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 78. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Thursday Night A 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 63. Calm wind.
May 05, 2025
Another Arrest by TPSO's Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, in its latest operation, has arrested 27 year-old Herman Landry IV who has been booked on 28 counts of Pornography Involving Juveniles as well as being a Fugitive from Jasper County, South Carolina, where he has three outstanding warrants for the same type of crimes.
Last month, the TPSO ICAC Unit started investigating the uploading of pornography involving juveniles onto a social media platform. Detectives determined Landry, who recently moved to Ponchatoula, was behind the uploads and was operating under several profiles on the same platform. During the investigation, it was learned that South Carolina's Jasper County Sheriff’s Office was also looking into one of the other profiles and, since Landry now resides in Tangipahoa Parish, all cases were forwarded to our ICAC team.
Landry was taken into custody May 1, 2025 and booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail. He will eventually be extradited to South Carolina to face those charges as well.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
This activity is part of TPSO’s partnership with Attorney General Liz Murrill’s Office and their ICAC Task Force which includes a collaboration with numerous local law enforcement agencies.
Click here for stories of other arrests by ICAC
The TPSO would like to thank the Jasper County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance with this case.
Reward Offered in Missing Person Cold Case (see the video)
The family of a missing Amite-area man is offering a $10,000 reward for information leading to finding
him—living or otherwise.
Click here for previous related stories
Christopher “Do Man” Brewer, age 36, was last seen in March 2020. He is a white male with red hair and green eyes standing 5’6” and weighing between 140-165 lbs. Brewer has tattoos on his neck, face, abdomen and both arms as well as one on his chest that reads ‘Ride or Die For My Family.’
On February 20, 2020, Brewer last saw his family when he committed to seeking help for his drug addiction through Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office's Operation Angel program. Unfortunately, the next day, he walked away from the facility in Lacombe. Over the next month, various sightings included the Bolivar area by Wilmer, the Oil Field Road area east of Amite, and Stateline Road in Kentwood. However, since mid-March 2020, there have been no additional reports, sightings, or indications he has made to family that he is around the area.
As another Mother’s Day approaches without her son, Tracy Brewer is now offering a $10,000 reward to encourage more cooperation from the community to find her son.
Anyone with information about Brewer’s last known whereabouts, or where he can be found today, can contact 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!
Information CAN be shared anonymously. You will be eligible for this cash reward if your information leads to the confirmed finding of Christopher Brewer.
Bogalusa Police Catches One Burglary Suspect, Looking for Another
On Monday (May 5, 2025) shortly after midnight, the Bogalusa Police Department received an alarm call at the Chevron Quick Shop located on Marshall Richardson Rd. Upon Officers arrival, two black males were seen fleeing the store on foot. A brief foot chase followed and one suspect was taken into custody. He was identified as 30 year-old Tavares Harrell of Kenner.
Officers continued to search for the second suspect but were unable to locate him. Two firearms, listed as stolen through NCIC, were located in the immediate vicinity of the suspects.
This is an ongoing investigation and BPD urges anyone who may have information about this incident to contact the Bogalusa Police Department Criminal Investigation Division at 985-732-6238
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 80. Calm wind.
Tonight A 20% chance of showers between 3am and 4am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 59. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 76. East wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Tuesday Night A 80% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 66. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.
Wednesday A 90% chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 78. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
Wednesday Night A 70% chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
May 04, 2025
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 3, 2025
Daniel Soloman (age 31 with Tulsa, Ok. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (3rd Offense), Possession of Marijuana, and No Drivers License by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $15000.00.
Stephanie LeBlanc (age 53 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Open Container in Vehicle, and Obstructing Public Passages by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.
Jessie Rupe (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Comply With Sex Offender Registration Requirements (3 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Kevin Boston (age 37 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting Arrest by Flight, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Possession of Marijuana, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Graylon Dillon (age 48 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Prohibited Acts/Schedule II (2 counts) and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
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 77. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Clear, with a low around 51. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Monday Sunny, with a high near 80. Calm wind.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. Calm wind.
Tuesday A 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 80. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Tuesday Night A 90% chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Low around 67. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
May 03, 2025
Suspect Captured in Kentwood-Area Homicide
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office reports that, this afternoon (May 3, 2025), K-9 Thor took 32-year-old murder suspect Willie Elzy Wells, Jr. into custody at a residence in the Village of Tangipahoa. Wells, Jr. was wanted on one count each of 1st Degree Murder, Armed Robbery and Felon in Possession of a Firearm.
Just before 1 a.m. Saturday (April 5, 2025) morning, a shooting was reported at a home in the 26000 block of Mount Hennan Cut Road in the Kentwood area. Antonio Famularo, age 42 and a resident of the home, was found dead on the scene.
Detectives determined the incident stemmed from a drug-related dispute and that Wells was the suspect in the case. Deputies had been actively trying to locate Wells and he was the source of a manhunt on April 17, 2025 around the Tangipahoa River Bridge in the Kentwood area.
Click here for previous related story
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 2, 2025
Scipio Burton (age 25 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Careless Operation,
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Driving While Intoxicated by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Tyler Hart (age 31 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation Violation and Contempt of Court by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Raymond Magee (age 22 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Yield Right of Way, Ran Stop Sign, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, No Drivers License, Aggravated Obstruction of Commerce/Roadway, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $1750.00.
Trent Mestayer (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts). No bond set at this time.
***All persons are 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 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1pm. Cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly sunny, with a high near 77. West wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Tonight Mostly clear, with a low around 54. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Sunday Sunny, with a high near 77. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the morning.
Sunday Night Clear, with a low around 52. Northwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Monday Sunny, with a high near 80. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 60. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.
May 02, 2025
Master Gardener Course Planned for Washington Parish
Are you interested in learning more about gardening and lawn care? Do you want to serve others by helping the LSU AgCenter provide education in these areas? A Louisiana Master Gardener training course is scheduled for Washington Parish on Tuesdays (9:00 AM till noon), from August 12 through November 18, 2025, with exception of October 14. Trainees will read specified materials, watch videoed lectures, and attend in-person meetings. Most classes will be held at the LSU AgCenter office in Franklinton (1104-B Bene St.).
To get an application or ask questions, interested individuals may contact Horticulture Agent Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson (mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850). Applications are due Friday, June 13, 2025. A fee of $175 and a background check will be required for those who are accepted and choose to enroll in the program.
Individuals in the Louisiana Master Gardener program help the LSU AgCenter provide education about gardening and lawn care. To become a Certified Louisiana Master Gardener, individuals must complete the training course, pass an examination, and volunteer forty or more hours of service with the LSU AgCenter within the year following completion of the course.
For accommodations for persons with disabilities, please inform Mary Helen of your needs when you submit your application. The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment.
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
Pruning Plants that Bloom in the Spring
We prune plants for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, we prefer or feel obligated to maintain a certain appearance, such as a raised canopy on a plant that naturally produces growth near the base or a small number of trunks on a potentially multi-trunked plant.
Often, we prune because a plant was put in a place for which it eventually got too large – close to a house, under a window or power line, etc. This type pruning is largely preventable by attention to mature plant size and placement, prior to planting.
One reason to train young trees, particularly, is so that they’ll have good structure and not have the narrow crotch angles and included bark that make branch attachments weak. (If you’ve ever wondered why ‘Bradford’ pear trees tend to break apart in storms, this is why.)
Removing crossing limbs to prevent damage and removing already damaged or diseased parts of plants are other reasons to prune.
When it comes to fruiting plants, we may prune to make picking easier, to increase sunlight penetration and air movement, and to improve fruit quality.
There are several things to consider when deciding if, when, and how to prune. One of the primary considerations regarding when to prune is flowering time and, relatedly, whether a plant flowers on new (current season’s) or old growth.
Ornamental plants that bloom in the late winter and early spring generally bloom on shoots that grew in a previous season. Many of our azaleas, like the southern Indica hybrids (‘Formosa’, ‘George Lindley Tabor’, etc.), are poster children for this. To avoid sacrificing blooms, these should be pruned after flowering.
I’ve been asked how late is too late to prune azaleas. The end of June or first of July is sometimes mentioned as a cut-off date, after which flower buds are likely to be forming for the following year. However, I don’t know exactly when flower bud formation starts here in southern Louisiana. (This stage of bud formation is something that happens within the plant – not something we can see on the outside of a branch.)
Rather than putting off pruning until the end of the window for doing so, if you need to prune your azaleas, you might go ahead and do it fairly soon after blooms fade. This gives plants more time to recover before the weather gets hot.
Other plants that bloom on old growth and should be pruned soon, if needed, include camellias, primrose jasmine, Carolina jessamine, and bridal wreath spirea.
Crape myrtles, chaste trees (vitex), and American beautyberry are examples of the opposite situation. They produce blooms on new shoot growth and so can be pruned in late winter, while dormant, without removing flower buds.
Some groups have species with both types of plants. Among the hydrangeas, mophead or “French” hydrangeas generally bloom on old growth, although there are exceptions (such as the Endless Summer
series). Mophead hydrangeas are unusual among the old-growth bloomers in that they bloom relatively late in the season. Oakleaf hydrangeas bloom on old growth as well, while panicle hydrangeas, like ‘Limelight’, bloom on new growth and can be pruned in late winter.
Many roses bloom on new growth, which is why they’re often pruned in late January or early February. There are some roses, though, that bloom once per year on old growth and should be pruned after flowering. These include the Cherokee rose and Lady Banks rose.
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).
Arrest Made in February Shooting & a Message from FPD Chief Justin Brown
On Tuesday, February 25, 2025, the Franklinton Police Department was notified by Riverside Medical Center in reference to a gunshot victim.
Subsequent investigation revealed the victim was shot by 22 year-old Jeremy Dickerson, a Franklinton resident, at the intersection of 15th and Parker Streets. The shooting occurred following a reported physical altercation. A warrant for Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Obstruction of Justice was sought against Dickerson.
On Wednesday (April 30, 2025), Jeremy Dickerson was located and arrested on the attempted murder warrant and other charges. At the time of arrest, Dickerson was in possession of Schedule I and II (Fentanyl) narcotics along with second Possession of a Firearm by a convicted felon. Dickerson was turned over to the Washington Parish Jail with a probation hold.
Chief Justin Brown offered the following statement regarding the arrest. "What we are experiencing in today's society and with young people is an inability to practice conflict resolution and find emotional balance. Everything, it seems, is a crisis of emotion and our youth and communities are suffering because of it. When people begin to understand their lack of emotional self regulation leads to them being controlled by others, then and only then will we, as a community and nation begin to change. Not everything or everyone is worth your time, thought or action. Most conflicts can be resolved through the simple acknowledgement of prioritizing what's important and what's not. For example, bettering yourself, your family and community could be a positive priority. Arguing on social media, fighting, selling drugs and shooting people, especially if you're already a convicted felon, probably not so much."
All persons are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 1, 2025
Steven Tew (age 26 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by
Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Savannah Atkinson (age 27 with Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Turn Signals, Possession of Marijuana, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $1000.00.
Anthony Dillon (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Second Degree Battery, Intimidating of a Witness, and Terrorizing by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Neal Guidry (age 45 with Fordoche, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Expired License Plate, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $4700.00.
***All persons are 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 40% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Tonight A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. Southwest wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Saturday A 90% chance of showers and thunderstorms. High near 79. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the morning. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Saturday Night A 30% chance of thunderstorms before 7pm. Mostly clear, with a low around 56. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Sunday Sunny, with a high near 78. North wind around 5 mph.
Sunday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 53. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
May 01, 2025
Two More Arrests in Fentanyl Overdose Death of Tickfaw Man
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has made two more arrests associated with the drug overdose death of a Tickfaw man.
- 45 year-old Joshua Thompson has been booked on one count each of 2nd Degree Murder, Distribution of Fentanyl, Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Obstruction of Justice.
- 21 year-old Mary Kate Fitzsimons was booked on one count each of Possession of Heroin, Possession of Methamphetamines, and Failure to Seek Medical Assistance.
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On April 8, 2025, first responders received a call about an unresponsive man at a home on John’s Drive in Tickfaw. Despite life-saving efforts, the 29-year-old died.
Following an autopsy confirming the death as the result of an overdose, the TPSO Narcotics team began a criminal investigation. Their efforts, supported by evidence and cooperation from the community, led to the arrest of Jordan Kenyatta Spears and Heather Simms for 2nd Degree Murder, Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin and Fentanyl as well as weapons-related charges.
Click here for that previous related story
As the investigation continued, TPSO investigators learned that Thompson was Spears’ supplier. A search warrant of his home and vehicle on Whiskey Lane in Tickfaw uncovered several illegal narcotics and evidence of a drug operation. Additional investigative efforts confirmed a connection with this death investigation and subsequently led to his arrest.
In addition, the investigation also revealed that Fitzsimons, the victim’s girlfriend, failed to seek timely help for him as he was overdosing. As a result, she was arrested in connection with his death as well.
TPSO participates with the Operation Angel program which offers those struggling with addiction to turn to the sheriff’s office to seek treatment, at no charge, without fear of consequences. If you, or a loved one, wants help through Operation Angel, individuals can come to any TPSO office or call 985-747-9696.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
Domestic Violence Suspect Sought in Kentwood Area
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs your help locating 36 year-old Dexter Viverette, a domestic violence suspect. Viverette is wanted for two new counts of Violation of a Protective Order on top of five outstanding warrants on the same charge. He also has outstanding warrants for Resisting by Flight- Aggravated and Resisting an Officer.
While it is unknown where Viverette is currently staying, he is believed to be either in the Kentwood area or just over the state line in Mississippi.
Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about Viverette’s whereabouts to contact our Criminal Investigations Office 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! You may be eligible for a reward.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 29-30, 2025
Tyler Pritchard (age 37 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Careless Operation
and Driving While Intoxicated by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.
Devin Lewis (age 29 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS (2 counts), Distribution of Schedule II CDS (7 counts), and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Louisiana State Police. Bond set at $250000.00.
Ray Head (age 47 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation and Intimidating of a Witness by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Jeremy Dickerson (age 24 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (2 counts), Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Marijuana by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Richard Payne (age 47 with New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (2nd Offense), Improper Lane Usage, and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jeremia Burkhalter (age 27 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Neil Kelly (age 39 with Folsom, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly after 3pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 87. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph. Chance of precipitation is 70%. New rainfall amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.
Tonight Showers and thunderstorms likely, mainly before 8pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Friday Showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New rainfall amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.
Friday Night Showers and thunderstorms likely before 10pm, then showers likely and possibly a thunderstorm between 10pm and 1am, then a chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. Chance of precipitation is 60%.
Saturday Showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 78. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 80%.
Saturday Night A slight chance of showers and thunderstorms before 10pm, then a slight chance of showers between 10pm and 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 55. North wind around 5 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%.
April 30, 2025
Can You Help ID Suspects in SLU Vehicle Burglaries
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The Southeastern Louisiana University Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying two suspects involved in a series of vehicle burglaries and the theft of a vehicle that occurred on campus early in the morning on April 25, 2025.
Surveillance footage from multiple campus cameras captured two unidentified black males entering the parking lot at approximately 4:22 AM. Over the next 25 minutes, the suspects were seen attempting to burglarize several vehicles before stealing one and fleeing the scene.
Later that day, the stolen vehicle was located with the assistance of the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office. Additionally, CCTV footage from Rende’s Gas Station, located near the campus, shows the same two individuals entering the store shortly before the thefts, this time without face coverings, providing a clearer view of their features.
SLUPD asks anyone with additional information about this incident to contact our office at 985-549-2222 and speak to an Investigator. Please reference SLUPD case 25-000290.
If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for the cash reward if your information leads to an arrest and conviction in this case.
Another Big Arrest in Tangipahoa Parish - Drugs, Guns, Cash Seized
On April 25, 2024, the Hammond Police Department Narcotics Division, with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office (TPSO), arrested 49 year-old Tallys White of Hammond.
White had been the subject of an ongoing narcotics investigation. The TPSO SWAT team executed a search warrant on White's residence, located off Old Baton Rouge Highway. During this search, White was located inside the residence along with:
- Multiple firearms (2 reported stolen)
- Large bags of marijuana
- Numerous pills
- Bottles of promethazine
- A bag of suspected ecstasy (MDMA) pills
- A large sum of US Currency
- Multiple digital scales
White was placed under arrest and booked accordingly.
During their investigation, detectives learned that the narcotics White was suspected of selling were making their way into Hammond. A joint investigation facilitated White's arrest and the end of his drug trafficking. Additionally, the firearms removed from White's residence now no longer have the potential to be involved in crimes.
All subjects are innocent until proven guilty.
Feasting on Agriculture: Southern Maids Goat Dairy
In this Feasting on Agriculture, Kristen Oaks White visits Southern Maids Dairy in Franklinton, Louisiana—home to the state’s largest goat dairy. What started as a simple anniversary gift has grown into a thriving farm helping moms and kids with fresh, easy-to-digest goat milk. Meet the goats, the family, and the passion behind this unique agricultural journey.
Promotions at Rayburn Correctional Center
On Friday, April 11, 2025, Warden Travis Day announced the following promotions and details at Rayburn Correctional Center. Lt. Col. Tylan Self promoted to Colonel; Major Johnny Hill promoted to Lieutenant Colonel; Captains Jules Herbert and Randall Williams promoted to Major; Lieutenants Jessie Williams and Lloyd Spears promoted to Captain; Master Sergeants Bruce Spears, Dustin Luper, Steve Merritt, and Colby Pierce promoted to Lieutenant; and Master Sergeants Colter Brumfield and Malik Powell detailed to Lieutenants.
Warden Day and the Rayburn Correctional Center staff congratulated these officers for their achievements and their promotions. We are excited to see them entering into their new roles and looking forward to the contributions each of these officers will bring to the RCC Team.
2024-2025 WPSO Deputy of the Year Recognized
On Tuesday (April 29, 2025), Sgt. Jonathan Shane Hickman of the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office
was recognized as the 2024-2025 Deputy of the Year by the Bogalusa Rotary Club. Hickman was promoted to Sgt. last month, and has been a Deputy Sheriff for two years. He is also a veteran of the United States Army, serving as an Airborne Cavalry Scout.
Sheriff Smith said before presenting the award, “Hickman has been instrumental in changing the mindset here at the Sheriff’s Office and has shown true leadership in his position. We usually reserve promotions for Deputy’s who have been here longer, but he exemplifies the leadership traits that are going to bring this organization into the future and deserves to be recognized for that. Congratulations, and we hope to get a lot more work out of you.”
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. South wind 5 to 10 mph increasing to 10 to 15 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Thursday A 50% chance of showers thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. South wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Thursday Night A 20% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 65. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Friday A 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 1pm. Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the afternoon.
Friday Night A 50% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
April 29, 2025
Amwaste Announces Retirement of Ellis M of Franklinton
Amwaste of Louisiana has announced the retirement of Ellis M who has "dedicated the last 17 years to his community on the back of a truck!"
Amwaste wishes Ellis a well-deserved, Happy Retirement!
Midway Mega Show is May 2&3 at the Fairgrounds
Message from the Town of Franklinton
Join us at the Washington Parish Fairgrounds for the Midway Mega Show on May 2-3! (Visit their event page for more details)
🚗 Friday Cruise Night
- Gates open at 5PM
- Live music from Dylan Varnado, Justin Blackwell, and Joel Galloway starting at 6PM!
🚜 Saturday Fun
- Touch-a-Truck: 10AM–3PM
- Eggroll Eating Contest, Cornhole Tournament, Car Show Awards
- Live music from Dean King Band and Walker Wilson from 5PM–9:30PM!
Family fun, live music, and memories you won’t want to miss!
Mark your calendars and come out to support this awesome event! 🎶🎉
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 26-28, 2025
Crystal Hoffman (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $3000.00 bond.
Tricia Wright (age 36 with Ponchatoula, La. address) was booked on the charge of Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.
Giovanni Fields (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Jeremy Meyn (age 39 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Battery of Infirm, Theft Less Than 1000, Theft of Firearm, Second Degree Battery, and 2nd Degree Rape/Vaginal. Bond set at $215000.00.
Blake Jenkins (age 38 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Hannah Spears (age 37 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Christopher Magee (age 40 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and No Seat Belt. Bond set at $3250.00.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Mostly sunny, with a high near 87. Light east wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 67. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 87. Light southeast wind becoming south 10 to 15 mph in the morning.
Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. Southeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
Thursday A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly sunny, with a high near 86. South wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.
Thursday Night A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Partly cloudy, with a low around 65. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
April 28, 2025
Slidell Woman Sentenced to 40 Years for Role in Drug Overdose Death of Fellow Inmate
District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on April 21, 2025, 40-year-old Sarah Blackmon of Slidell was sentenced by Judge Alan Black to 40 years in prison after she pled guilty to Manslaughter for her role in the drug overdose death of a fellow inmate in the Slidell City Jail. Blackmon also pled guilty to related charges of Introduction of a controlled dangerous substance into a correctional facility and Failure to seek assistance resulting in death. She was sentenced to five years in prison on each of those charges, to run concurrent with the manslaughter sentence. Assistant District Attorney Luke Lancaster prosecuted the case.
Click here for previous related stories
On November 22, 2023, a correctional officer with the Slidell Police Department was conducting his usual morning routine of waking inmates. One of the female inmates did not respond to him. After making entry into the inmate’s cell, the correctional officer noticed the 25-year-old inmate was deceased. An autopsy revealed the inmate had died of a Fentanyl overdose.
Detectives with Slidell Police Department reviewed video footage from the jail’s surveillance system and noted that on the previous day, inmate Sarah Blackmon had been moved into the same jail cell occupied by the now deceased inmate. Within minutes of being placed into the cell, Blackmon is seen removing something from a body cavity and eventually passing it to the victim. Later, Blackmon is observed stepping toward the victim who is lying on a bed. Blackmon lifted the victim’s arm and let it go. The victim’s arm immediately fell back to the bed. Blackmon covered the victim with a blanket and became visibly emotional.
Detectives questioned Blackmon and she eventually admitted when she was booked into the jail the previous day, correctional officers conducted a strip search of her but did not detect drugs she had concealed in a body cavity. Once she was placed into the cell with now deceased inmate, she removed the drugs, consumed some and shared the remainder with the other inmate. Blackmon acknowledged that at a later point, she approached the victim and did not observe any signs of life in her. Blackmon said she believed the inmate was deceased but did not seek any assistance because she knew she was the one who provided the drugs that likely caused the victim’s death.
Under Louisiana law, if a person distributes a controlled dangerous substance which is the direct cause of death of the recipient who ingested the controlled dangerous substance, that person is criminally liable for homicide.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Patchy fog before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 88. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 67. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
Tuesday Mostly sunny, with a high near 86. Light southeast wind becoming south 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Tuesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 66. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Wednesday Partly sunny, with a high near 87. South wind 5 to 15 mph.
Wednesday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. South wind 5 to 10 mph.
April 27, 2025
April 26, 2025
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for April 24-25, 2025
Stacy Wood (age 56 with Robert, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana,
Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2000.00 bond.
Brian Wheat (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Louis Antion Tate (age 35 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000 and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $750.00.
John Busby (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Accessory After the Fact, Possession of Heroin, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $1000.00.
Christian Herring (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Accessory After the Fact, Possession of Heroin, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Blanca Martinez (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Johnny Morrow (age 59 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are innocent until proven guilty***
This Week's Episode of TWILA
From Capitol Hill to crawfish ponds, we're covering agriculture from every angle. This week on This Week in Louisiana Agriculture, we follow Congressman Troy Carter as he visits farmers in his district to hear firsthand about the urgent need for a Farm Bill. We also explore a new state-of-the-art sawmill revitalizing a small town, dive into Louisiana's booming agritourism scene, and continue our Road to Leadership series with Marty Wooldridge. Plus, we celebrate Black Farmers and Growers Day, stomp grapes at Landry Vineyards, and get a reality check on farming in the John Deere Challenge. Catch all that and more in this edition of TWILA!
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Patchy fog before 10am. Otherwise, mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind.
Tonight Patchy fog after 1am. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a low around 65. Calm wind.
Sunday Areas of fog before 10am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 88. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.
Sunday Night Patchy fog after 3am. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 63. Calm wind.
Monday Patchy fog before 8am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 88. Light south wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.
Monday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 65. South wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.
April 25, 2025
Pair Arrested on Murder Charges in Tangipahoa Parish Following Fentanyl Overdose Death
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has arrested 30 year-old Jordan Kenyatta “Clutch” Spears and 33 year-old Heather Simms, both from Hammond, in connection with the drug overdose death of a 29 year-old Tickfaw man on April 8, 2025.
Spears has been booked on one count each of 2nd Degree Murder, Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Distribution of a Schedule II narcotic.
Simms has been booked on one count each of Principle to 2nd Degree Murder, Conspiracy to Distribute Heroin, Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Obstruction of Justice.
First responders received a call about an unresponsive man at a home on John’s Drive in Tickfaw. Despite life-saving efforts, the 29-year-old victim died. Following an autopsy confirming the death as the result of an overdose, the TPSO Narcotics team began a criminal investigation. Their efforts, supported by evidence and cooperation from the community, identified Spears as the person who sold the victim the drugs that killed him.
Additional evidence was secured and an arrest warrant for Spears’ was obtained. Thanks to assistance from Louisiana State Police- Troop A and the East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office, Spears was taken into custody on Wednesday, April 23, 2025 and was transferred to the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on April 25, 2025. At the time of his booking, he also had two outstanding felony warrants.
During a search of his apartment, Simms, Spears’ girlfriend, was taken into custody after evidence of a drug distribution operation was found as well as a stolen gun.
“This agency is committed to not only ridding our parish’s streets of deadly drugs, as well as those who spread them through the community, but also holding those drug dealers accountable when the poison they push steals the lives of people struggling with addiction,” said Sheriff Gerald Sticker.
2 Year-Old Killed in St. Tammany Parish Crash
Covington – Shortly before 11:50 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L responded to a single-vehicle crash on Interstate 12, west of the LA Hwy 59 exit in St. Tammany Parish. The crash tragically claimed the life of 2-year-old Preston Ordone of Slidell.
The preliminary investigation indicates that a 2011 Ford F-150 was traveling eastbound on I-12 when, for reasons still under investigation, the vehicle veered off the roadway to the right and struck a tree.
The driver and front passenger, who were both properly restrained, sustained serious injuries and were transported to a local hospital. Preston, who was seated in the rear, but improperly restrained in a child safety seat, also sustained serious injuries and was transported to the hospital, where he later succumbed to his injuries. As part of the ongoing investigation, a routine toxicology sample was collected from the driver for analysis.
Louisiana State Police stress that proper restraint use significantly reduces the risk of serious injury or death in a crash. Louisiana law requires all occupants, regardless of seating position, to be properly restrained at all times. The proper use of seat belts and child safety seats can be the difference between life and death. Parents and caregivers who are unsure about their child’s car seat installation are encouraged to visit any Louisiana State Police Troop or contact the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission to locate the nearest fitting station. Ensuring correct installation and usage of car seats and booster seats is critical to preventing injuries and saving lives.
Louisiana State Police urge all motorists to drive responsibly, obey traffic laws, and avoid driving while impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Always ensure every occupant in the vehicle is properly restrained. To report hazardous driving, dial *LSP (*577).
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 after 1pm. Partly sunny, with a high near 84. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph in the morning. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tonight A 10 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms before 7pm. Patchy fog after 11pm. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a low around 64. Calm wind.
Saturday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Patchy fog before 10am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.
Saturday Night Patchy fog after 1am. Otherwise, partly cloudy, with a low around 64. Calm wind.
Sunday A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1pm. Areas of fog before 8am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 88. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.
Sunday Night Patchy fog after 3am. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 62. Calm wind.
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