Charles James Ruberts
February 22, 1953 — January 24, 2026
January 31, 2026
Five Arrested in St. Tammany on Child Exploitation Charges
Updated February 2, 2026 with information from Covington Police Department and St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office as to identities and images of those arrested.
On Friday (January 30, 2025), the Louisiana State Police Special Victims Unit (LSP/SVU), working in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Covington Police Department, concluded a multi-day investigation into child exploitation that resulted in the arrest of five individuals on charges related to child sexual exploitation.Arrested by LSP SVU detectives were 26-year-old Kevin M. Pierre of Folsom and 44-year-old Mayfield J. Lee of Metairie. Each was charged with Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, Computer-aided Solicitation of a Minor, and Attempted Carnal Knowledge of a Juvenile. Both were booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.
Arrested by Covington Police were 20-year-old Emmanuel Carl Hill of Covington, 38-year-old Waylon Scott Byers of Madisonville, and 47-year-old Lewis David Peacock of Baton Rouge. Each was booked on the charges of Indecent Behavior With Juveniles and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor. Byers was additionally charged with Attempted Production/Possession of Pornography Involving Juveniles. Peacock was additionally charged with Child Grooming. All were booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
This investigation highlights the continued collaboration among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in combating sexual crimes that threaten the safety of Louisiana children.
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.
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 34. Wind chill values as low as 6. Breezy, with a north wind 20 to 25 mph.
Tonight Widespread frost after 4am. Otherwise, clear, with a low around 18. Wind chill values as low as 9. North wind 10 to 15 mph decreasing to 5 to 10 mph after midnight.
Sunday Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 45. Wind chill values as low as 14 early. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm.
Sunday Night Widespread frost after 10pm. Otherwise, clear, with a low around 25. Calm wind.
Monday Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 60. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Monday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 39. Calm wind.
January 30, 2026
Mardi Gras Decorating Contest in Bogalusa
From the Washington Chamber of Commerce
The Washington Chamber of Commerce is excited to bring the Mardi Gras Decorating Contest to Bogalusa, and we cannot wait to see our businesses and community show off their creativity. Businesses, individuals, medical offices, and window displays are invited to participate. Registration is required by February 2 at 5:00 pm, and entry numbers will be provided once your form is submitted. Click here to register. Email washingtonchamberofcommerce@gmail.com with any questions.
Glaucoma: The “silent thief of sight”
Source: Riverside Medical Center
Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness, but the good news is that early detection can make a big difference. Glaucoma happens when pressure builds up inside the eye and damages the optic nerve. Most people don’t notice symptoms at first, which is why it’s often called the “silent thief of sight.”
What you can do:
👁️ Get regular eye exams, especially if you’re over 40 or have a family history of eye disease.
🩺 Talk with your doctor if you notice changes in your vision.
💊 Follow treatment plans if you've been diagnosed—early care can help protect your sight.
Taking small steps now can help keep your eyes healthy for years to come. Let’s spread awareness and encourage our community to make eye health a priority! 💙👓
LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message
What to Do After the Cold Weather, and Tips for Future Cold Events
As I prepare this, we’re getting ready for the coldest temperatures we’ve had so far this winter. It doesn’t look like they’ll get close to the low teens or single digits that we had last year, but the anticipated low 20s are still cold by our standards.
Parts of herbaceous (non-woody) plants that are brown and obviously dead can be cut back soon, though there doesn't need to be a rush to do so, and leaving some of the plant tissue may help protect them from cold weather later in the season. Research has found that pollinators and other beneficial insects often live in perennials’ dead stems that have been allowed to remain in place for the following growing season. Based on this, it’s been suggested to leave the first 1 to 2 feet of dead stems for insect habitat.
For woody plants and palms, waiting is advised.
On citrus trees, you may not be able to tell the full extent of cold damage until sometime in the summer. Branches or trunks that look damaged may end up putting out new growth. At the same time, cold-damaged trees may put out flushes of new growth that later collapse. Waiting until July or August, after the second annual flush of growth has occurred, gives you more time to see the full extent of cold damage. At that time, you can remove dead wood.
Also remember to remove rootstock growth from below the graft union as citrus plants recover. Most rootstocks have trifoliate leaves (leaves with three leaflets), so their foliage looks different than that originating from the scion (top part of the grafted tree).
When the time comes to fertilize citrus trees in late winter or early spring, if it appears that you have cold injury, you can reduce the amount of fertilizer in proportion to the part of the tree that appears damaged and, instead of applying it all at once, divide the total amount of fertilizer up into several smaller applications. Be sure not to fertilize after the end of June, though, since late fertilizer application can predispose citrus trees to cold damage the following winter.
On cold damaged palms, it’s recommended to let brown leaves remain until no further hard freezes are likely to occur. Survival of palms depends on survival of the growing tip (meristem) at the top of the plant. Dead or injured leaves can still help protect the growing tip from remaining cold events. Since palms do not put out new growth until later than many other plants, wait until July to make the call about whether or not a palm is dead.
When you buy new plants, remember to choose ones that are cold hardy in your area, if you don’t want to have to protect them. Since the 2023 update to the USDA Hardiness Zone map, most of Tangipahoa and Washington Parishes have been in Zone 9A. There are still some patches of Zone 8B in northern Tangipahoa Parish and western and north-central Washington Parish.
Hardiness Zone 9A indicates average minimum temperatures of 20 to 25 degrees F. Since hardiness zones are based on average minimums, we occasionally experience temperatures lower than that range, as we did last year. If you want to play it safe, you can continue to select plants that are hardy enough for Zone 8B.
When a freeze is expected, make sure that plants have adequate water. Moist soil retains more heat than dry soil. Also, if the water around a plant’s roots freezes, the plant will not be able to take it up while it’s frozen, so it needs to have sufficient water beforehand.
Mulch is desirable in many situations and can help protect plant roots from cold temperatures, if the roots are the part of concern. However, with citrus trees, the rootstock is very cold hardy. It’s the scion that’s more cold sensitive. Bare soil heats up more during the day than soil that is covered with mulch and therefore can provide more heat at night. For marginally hardy citrus trees, one thing you can do to provide a small amount of cold protection is to remove weeds, grass, and mulch under the plant. For this to be useful, the soil needs time to heat up, so don’t wait until late afternoon of the day before the freeze to do it.
When temperatures are expected to get colder than a particular plant can withstand, covering plants is sometimes an option. The cover should extend to the ground. A variety of materials can be used, but try to avoid having direct contact between the plant and the cover, especially if it’s plastic. Also, if you use a plastic cover, make sure to take it off or vent it during the day so that the plant won’t get too hot.
For additional cold protection, an incandescent light bulb can be placed under the cover. Make sure the light won’t get wet, and avoid direct contact between the light and either the tree or the cover.
For citrus in particular, a final thing you can do is to protect the trunk from the base to some point above the graft union with an insulating material. If part of the scion survives, the tree is likely to be able to regrow from it.
Let me know if you have questions.
Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages
Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Patchy frost before 8am. Otherwise, partly sunny, with a high near 53. Light west wind becoming north 10 to 15 mph in the morning.
Tonight Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 22. Wind chill values as low as 12. North wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.
Saturday Sunny, with a high near 33. Wind chill values as low as 7. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph.
Saturday Night Widespread frost after 4am. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 18. Wind chill values as low as 10. North wind 5 to 15 mph.
Sunday Widespread frost before 7am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 45. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the afternoon.
Sunday Night Widespread frost after 9pm. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 23. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
January 29, 2026
Judge Burris Announces Candidacy for Louisiana Supreme Court
Franklinton, LA — Judge William H. “Billy” Burris, a conservative jurist and lifelong Republican, announced his campaign for the Louisiana Supreme Court, District 1. Judge Burris brings decades of legal experience on the bench and in private practice, has a proven record of judicial leadership, and a firm commitment to the rule of law and judicial restraint. Judge Burris said his judicial philosophy reflects the tough-minded respect for law and order that conservative voters demand, adding that he will enforce the law as written, protect communities, advocate for victims’ rights, and reject judicial activism.
“Like President Trump’s judicial appointees, I believe the role of a judge is not to make law, but to apply it faithfully,” Judge Burris said. “Louisiana deserves justices who are firm, fair, and unafraid to uphold the Constitution, even when it’s unpopular. I prioritize public safety, insist on personal responsibility, and treat every litigant with equal respect under the law. I will bring that same steady, principled approach to the Supreme Court.”
Judge Burris has served as District Judge, Division E, of the 22nd Judicial District Court, covering Washington and St. Tammany Parishes, since 2018. A native of Franklinton, he is an LSU alumnus and graduated magna cum laude from Southern University Law Center. During his time on the bench, Judge Burris has overseen both civil and criminal dockets and has presided over 49 jury trials. He routinely handles some of the court’s most complex matters, including nine life without parole cases and three major sex-offender trials, resulting in sentences ranging from 80 to 200 years. In addition, Judge Burris has played a key role in launching specialty courts focused on accountability and rehabilitation, and he has earned statewide respect through his leadership on multiple judicial committees.
Judge Burris’s record on the district court has earned the confidence of Louisiana’s leading job creators and business advocates. His proven commitment to fairness and stability has earned him the endorsement of the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry’s SouthPAC, the Louisiana Motor Transport Association’s TruckPAC, the Louisiana Oil & Gas Association’s LOGPAC, and the Louisiana Mid-Continent Oil & Gas Association’s MCPAC. These organizations represent thousands of employers and workers across the state.
“As a faithful conservative and originalist, I believe judges must respect the proper role of the Legislature and resist attempts to legislate from the bench,” Judge Burris added. “My judicial philosophy is rooted in common sense, restraint, and fidelity to the Constitution.”
Judge Burris is active in his community and Christian faith. He is a member of the Federalist Society, a lifetime member of the National Rifle Association, a former president of the Washington Parish Bar Association, and an ordained deacon at First Baptist Church of Franklinton. He and his wife, Lacy, are raising two daughters in Franklinton.
The Republican primary is scheduled for Saturday, May 16. Learn more about Judge Billy Burris at www.JudgeBurris.com
Suspect Wanted For Biting Off Part of Woman’s Face
UPDATE: TPSO advised at 11:14 PM on January 30, 2026 that Brandon Patrick is in custody.
Original Story
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office is asking the public to be on the lookout for 31-year-old Brandon Patrick, a dangerous suspect who is wanted in connection with a gruesome domestic violence case that occurred Tuesday (January 27, 2026).Patrick is wanted for biting off a portion of a female victim’s face during a domestic dispute. According to the TPSO report, the victim had been held against her will for days. The injury occurred during her escape. The victim is still hospitalized and undergoing treatment for her extensive injuries.
Patrick is currently wanted on one count of Domestic Abuse Battery with Serious Bodily Injury and False Imprisonment. This investigation is ongoing with additional and/or increased charges pending.
Note: Patrick is an identical twin, but has several distinctive marks and tattoos to help correctly identify him, including an old stab wound on his right hand and a left arm half-sleeve of tattoos with a house and scroll. His right arm has a full sleeve of tattoos. Patrick is a convicted felon with a known local-gang affiliation and is considered dangerous. Patrick does not have a vehicle and may attempt to request transportation from strangers.
If you know where Patrick is, please contact TPSOs 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! Tips submitted directly through Crimestoppers may be eligible for a cash reward.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Major Drug Bust in Tangipahoa Parish - $1.5 Million in Cocaine, Gun, Cash Seized
On January 27, 2026, Louisiana State Police Troopers and Criminal Investigators assigned to the Louisiana State Police Narcotics / Violent Crime Task Force, along with personnel from Troop L and Special Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, participated in a joint narcotics investigation in Tangipahoa Parish targeting members of a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) involved in the interstate distribution of cocaine.
Coordinated enforcement actions resulted in the seizure of approximately twenty (20) kilograms of cocaine, valued at an estimated street value of $1,500,000.00 one Glock handgun, and approximately $7,150.00 in United States currency.
As a result of the investigation, three individuals were arrested and booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on state narcotics and firearms violations. Arrested were 19-year-old Jorge Lira, 38-year-old Eliberto Guajardo, and 44-year-old Brice Strain, Jr., all from Texas.
This investigation highlights the continued collaboration among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies in disrupting large-scale drug trafficking operations that threaten the safety of Louisiana communities.
The Louisiana State Police Narcotics / Violent Crime Task Force is comprised of Louisiana State Police Troopers and Criminal Investigators, along with law enforcement personnel from the Saint Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Hammond Police Department, the 22nd Judicial District Attorney’s Office, the United States Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
The Louisiana State Police remains the lead investigative agency in this ongoing case. Additional arrests are possible as the investigation continues.
The Louisiana State Police urges anyone with information related to illegal narcotics activity to report it through the secure online reporting system at www.lsp.org or by contacting the Louisiana State Police Fusion Center Hotline at 1-800-434-8007.
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 56. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.
Tonight Increasing clouds, with a low around 37. Calm wind.
Friday Partly sunny, with a high near 52. Light and variable wind becoming north 10 to 15 mph in the morning.
Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 22. Wind chill values as low as 12. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
Saturday Sunny, with a high near 33. Breezy, with a north wind 15 to 20 mph, with gusts as high as 30 mph.
Saturday Night Clear, with a low around 18. North wind 5 to 10 mph.
January 28, 2026
Pearl River Man Gets Life Sentence for Child Rape
District Attorney Collin Sims announces that today, George Starks, 32, of Pearl River, Louisiana, was sentenced to a mandatory term of life imprisonment for the brutal rape and sexual battery of a child. The sentencing follows a December 2025 conviction where a St. Tammany Parish jury took only 19 minutes to return a unanimous guilty verdict. Judge Tara Zeller of Division B handed down the following sentences:
Count 1: First-Degree Rape of a Child Under Thirteen – Life imprisonment at hard labor, without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.
Count 2: Sexual Battery Involving a Victim Under Thirteen – 50 years at hard labor, without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.
The court ordered that these sentences be served concurrently.
The conviction stems from a July 2022 incident in Slidell. Evidence presented by Assistant District Attorneys Iain Dover and Tiffany Dover detailed how Starks lured the victim into his vehicle before driving her to a secluded area at the dead end of Bull Run. There, he forcibly removed her from the car and committed the rape and assault.
Click here for previous related stories
The investigation, led by Detective Patrick Rigney of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, was bolstered by surveillance footage from a local Shell station and definitive DNA evidence from the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office. Despite Starks’ evolving and contradictory claims during the trial – including a claim that the victim forced his DNA into her possession – the jury found the evidence of his guilt overwhelming.
District Attorney Collin Sims issued the following statement regarding today’s sentencing:
“Today’s sentence ensures that a dangerous predator will never again have the opportunity to harm a child in our community. The victim’s bravery throughout this process remained the foundation of this case. This life sentence is the only just outcome for such heinous acts.”
DA Sims again extended his gratitude to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office, Hope House, and the Morgan Rae Center for Hope for their roles in securing this conviction and supporting the victim.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 27, 2026
Travis Parrott (age 38 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the
Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $768.00 bond.
Jace Crosby (age 30 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation, Terrorizing, and Unlawful Disruption of a School Operation by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Cletis Parson (age 64 with Bogalusa, 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 Widespread frost, mainly before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 52. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Tonight Widespread frost, mainly after 10pm. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 26. Calm wind.
Thursday Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, mostly sunny, with a high near 55. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.
Thursday Night Increasing clouds, with a low around 37. Calm wind.
Friday Mostly cloudy, with a high near 51. Light northwest wind becoming north 10 to 15 mph in the morning.
Friday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 21. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
January 27, 2026
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 26, 2026
Eugine Tyson (age 43 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II
Drugs (2 counts) and Possession of Contraband in Correctional Facility by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $12000.00.
Tommy Lewis (age 29 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Indecent Behavior With Juvenile(s) by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $50000.00.
Didnell Howard (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Entry/Remain on Premises After Being Forbidden and Possession of Schedule III Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $12000.00
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny, with a high near 49. Calm wind becoming west around 5 mph.
Tonight Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 27. Calm wind.
Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 54. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 26. Calm wind.
Thursday Mostly sunny, with a high near 57. Calm wind becoming south around 5 mph.
Thursday Night A 50 percent chance of showers after midnight. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 38. Calm wind becoming northeast around 5 mph after midnight.
January 26, 2026
Statement from Washington Parish President Ryan Seal
“We continue to closely monitor the extreme cold weather impacting Washington Parish, and I want to assure our residents that parish operations remain stable and prepared.
At this time, there are no travel concerns, and our public buildings are safe. Our Department of Public Works crews began salting bridges Sunday as soon as weather conditions allowed, treating approximately 50 bridges across the parish, including the emergency entrance at Riverside Medical Center. Crews were back out this morning checking bridges and roads, and no issues have been reported. Our teams remain ready to respond and will salt again if conditions require it.
Washington Parish remains under an Extreme Cold Warning through noon Tuesday, with dangerously
cold wind chills expected to remain in the single digits to lower teens. While we anticipate a very cold start to Tuesday, we are forecasted to see several hours above freezing, with a high near 48 degrees. Sub-freezing temperatures are expected to continue into Wednesday.
For those in need of warmth, four warming centers remain open at least through Wednesday, January 28. We are grateful to our fire districts and community partners for making these facilities available. The Poplas Quarters Community Center assisted six residents, and we continue to encourage neighbors to check on one another during this cold weather.
The safety of our citizens remains our top priority. We will continue working with our departments and partners to monitor conditions and provide updates as needed. Please stay warm, stay safe, and continue to look out for one another.”
— President Ryan Seal
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 24-25, 2026
Joseph Simmons (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by
the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released January 24, 2026.
Jasmine Magee (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Resisting an Officer, and Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language by the Franklinton Police Department. Bond set at $12000.00.
Kendria Warren (age 21 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.
Edna Mestayer (age 65 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Prohibited Acts/Schedule II and Possession of Schedule IV Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $7500.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Sunny, with a high near 38. Wind chill values as low as 9. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
Tonight Clear, with a low around 17. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.
Tuesday Sunny, with a high near 48. Calm wind.
Tuesday Night Partly cloudy, with a low around 24. Calm wind.
Wednesday Sunny, with a high near 51. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph.
Wednesday Night Mostly clear, with a low around 23. Calm wind.
January 25, 2026
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly before 1pm. Some of the storms could produce heavy rainfall. Temperature falling to around 34 by 5pm. Northwest wind 10 to 15 mph. New precipitation amounts between three quarters and one inch possible.
Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 20. Wind chill values as low as 10. North wind around 15 mph.
Monday Sunny, with a high near 39. Wind chill values as low as 7. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
Monday Night Widespread frost after 11pm. Otherwise, clear, with a low around 16. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light after midnight.
Tuesday Widespread frost before 9am. Otherwise, sunny, with a high near 48. Calm wind.
Tuesday Night Widespread frost after 8pm. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 21. Calm wind.
January 24, 2026
Emergency Declaration Signed by Parish President Seal
From the desk of Parish President Seal
Washington Parish is currently under an Extreme Cold Warning with a Winter Weather Watch in effect. Rain is expected tomorrow, followed by extremely cold temperatures and hazardous conditions.
Out of an abundance of caution, I have signed an emergency declaration (see below) to aid in response and recovery should the need arise and with the safety of our residents as our top priority, Washington Parish Government offices will be closed on Monday, January 26. The Choctaw Landfill anticipates opening at 10:00 a.m., weather permitting.
“Our biggest concern is the safety of our community,” said Parish President Ryan Seal. “We are actively monitoring weather conditions and taking steps to protect our residents. Warming centers will be available for those in need, and I strongly encourage everyone to limit travel, prepare their homes, and check on elderly neighbors and those who may need assistance.”
Warming Center Locations:
- Washington Parish Fire Protection District #2, 39618 Hwy. 10, Franklinton, LA 70438. Chief Wyman – 985-415-7693
- Poplas Quarters Community Center, 1 J.J. Piper Street, Bogalusa, LA. Larry Brown – 985-750-5368
- Washington Parish Fire Protection District #4, 53091 Hwy. 62, Franklinton, LA. 985-515-2397
- Washington Parish Fire Protection District #9, 36023 Hwy. 1055, Mt. Hermon, LA. 985-877-5029 or 985-335-6533
⏰ Open 24/7 — must call prior to arrival
Residents are encouraged to first work with family, friends, and neighbors before utilizing warming centers. Those who use a warming center should bring food, clothing, bedding, and medications.
A limited amount of snacks will be provided. No contraband or weapons will be permitted and will be confiscated prior to entry.
The Washington Parish Public Works Department will begin salting bridges and critical roadways tomorrow afternoon once rain has cleared.
Residents are strongly encouraged to stay off the roads to allow first responders, utility crews, and parish personnel to safely respond to service calls.
Washington Parish Government will continue to monitor conditions and provide updates as they become available.
Notice From Washington Parish School System
Due to winter weather concerns, Monday will be a Virtual Learning Day (no in-person classes) for all Washington Parish School System schools.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 23, 2026
Timothy Rogers (age 40 with Covington, La. address) was booked on the charge of Residential Contractor Fraud Over $500 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $20000.00 bond.
Nicole Wilson (age 31 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Malfeasance in Office by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Daylan Thomas (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Speeding 31-40 Over Limit, Open Container in Vehicle, and No Drivers License by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm after 3pm. High near 54. East wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Tonight A 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Low around 40. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming southwest after midnight. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Sunday A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Temperature rising to near 55 by 9am, then falling to around 39 during the remainder of the day. South wind 5 to 15 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. New rainfall amounts between 1 and 2 inches possible.
Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 20. Wind chill values as low as 7. Northwest wind around 15 mph.
Monday Sunny, with a high near 37. North wind 10 to 15 mph.
Monday Night Widespread frost after 8pm. Otherwise, mostly clear, with a low around 15. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming light after midnight.
January 23, 2026
Tickfaw Man Guilty of Distribution of Kilograms of Fentanyl
Turner was dealing drugs in Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, and Washington Parishes. The U.S. Attorney praised the work of a number of agencies, including the 22nd JDC District Attorney's Office, the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office, and the Bogalusa Police Department.
Larry G. Turner, age 41 and of Tangipahoa Parish, pled guilty on January 15, 2026 before U.S. District Judge Barry W Ashe to Conspiracy to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, more than 400 grams of fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney David I. Courcelle.
Judge Ashe scheduled sentencing for April 9, 2026. At sentencing, Turner faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten (10) years and up to life imprisonment, up to a $10,000,000 fine, and at least five (5) years of supervised release. There is also a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
According to the indictment, beginning on a time unknown but continuing until at least June 26, 2025, Turner and several other individuals conspired to distribute, and possess with intent to distribute, multiple kilograms of fentanyl throughout the Tangipahoa, St. Tammany, and Washington Parishes region of the Eastern District of Louisiana. The conspiracy mainly revolved around Turner’s residence in Tickfaw, Louisiana. The execution of a federal search warrant at Turner’s residence led to the recovery of over five (5) kilograms of fentanyl in counterfeit pill form, along with multiple firearms.
U.S. Attorney Courcelle praised the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), Hammond Police Department, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, 22nd JDC District Attorney’s Office, Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Louisiana National Guard. FORT was also assisted by the Louisiana State Police, Bogalusa Police Department, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Stuart Theriot of the Narcotics Unit.
Warming Centers and Other Community Information
Washington Parish is under a Winter Storm Watch from Sunday midnight through Sunday 6pm and Extreme Cold Watch from Sunday evening through Tuesday morning.
Beginning Sunday, January 25, 2026, through Wednesday, January 28, 2025, citizens can utilize the following warming centers starting at 5:00P.M, Sunday. Once checked in, citizens must stay overnight.
- Washington Parish Fire District #2, 39618 Hwy 10, Franklinton LA 70438. Chief Wyman, 985-415-7693
- Poplas Quarters Community Center, 1 J J Piper St, Bogalusa LA 70427. Larry Brown, 985-750-5368
- Washington Parish Fire District #9, 36023 Hwy 1055, Mt. Hermon, LA 70450/ 985-877-5029 or 985-335-6533 24/7.
- Washington Parish Fire District #4, 53091 Hwy 62, Franklinton LA 70438. 985-515-2397
You must call before arrival
Citizens are encouraged to work with their family, friends and neighbors before using theses warming centers. Citizens should bring anything they need including food, clothing, bedding and medicine. A limited amount of snacks will be provided. No contraband or weapons will be allowed and will be confiscated before entering.
Road closures can be found at 511la.org
Additional community information and resources can be found by dialing 211 or text your zip code to 898-211.
Parish President Seal strongly urges citizens to take the following precautions:
- Dress in layers including a hat, face mask, and gloves if you must go outside.
- To prevent water pipes from freezing; wrap or drain or allow them to drip slowly.
- Keep pets indoors as much as possible.
- Make sure outdoor animals have a warm, dry shelter, food, and unfrozen water.
- Make frequent checks on older family, friends, and neighbors.
- Ensure portable heaters are used correctly.
- Use approved indoor heaters on level surfaces, keep 3 feet from combustibles, and keep an extinguisher near fireplaces.
- Do not use generators or grills inside.
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 22, 2026
Qwandarious Rowe (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
David Bonnette (age 58 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Obstructing Public Passage(s) and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Keri Thomas (age 59 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Tail Light on Bicycle, Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Failure to Appear (3 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Kristen Barber (age 45 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Lionel Lotts (age 42 with New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Speeds Unsafe for Posted Zones, Driving Under Suspension, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Possession of Marijuana, Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, and Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Marcus Youngblood (age 34 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Burglary/Inhabited Dwelling and Resisting an Officer by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Now’s a Good Time to Plant Blueberries
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In Louisiana, fall through early spring is the perfect time to plant a host of trees and shrubs —
including blueberries. While these plants won’t bear their delicious fruit for a few more months, it’s best to get them in the ground (or containers!) while the weather is cool. This gives them plenty of time to establish before the arrival of stressful summer heat. Blueberries are among the easiest fruit crops home gardeners can grow. But there are a few things you should know before you purchase and plant the shrubs.
Mary Helen Ferguson, an LSU AgCenter horticulture agent, offers these tips for blueberry success.
Choose plants carefully
Most people in Louisiana grow one of two kinds of blueberries: rabbiteye or southern highbush. Ferguson generally recommends rabbiteye blueberries, which ripen between May and July. They are more disease resistant and more forgiving when it comes to soil requirements. “Rabbiteye varieties are well suited for most places in Louisiana,” Ferguson said. “Along the coast and in the New Orleans area might be a bit of an exception.” In those areas, southern highbush varieties — some of which require fewer chilling hours than rabbiteyes and ripen earlier — may be a better choice. Regardless of which type of blueberry you decide to grow, be sure to purchase more than one plant. Cross pollination between different varieties is important for fruit production. Try to get two to three varieties, which helps improve yields and quality. Ferguson has had the highest yields with Tifblue, Brightwell, Ochlockonee, Premier and Austin — all rabbiteye varieties — in a demonstration at the AgCenter Hammond Research Station.
Site selection and soil preparation
“When we plant rabbiteye blueberries, site selection and soil preparation are important,” Ferguson said. “We want to choose a location that has full sun, ideally, and is well drained and has relatively acidic soil.” Blueberries prefer a pH between about 4.5 and 5.2 (up to 5.5 is OK for rabbiteye plants). Much of Louisiana has soils that naturally fall within this range, but in some areas, the pH will need to be adjusted. Typical potting mixes also are not acidic enough for blueberries’ liking.
So, how do you make soil more acidic? When the pH only needs to be reduced a little bit, an easy way is to incorporate a 2-to-4-inch layer of aged pine bark into the ground before planting. This helps improve drainage, too. Where pH needs to come down more, elemental sulfur can be applied based on soil test results. “If you’re planting in a container, use aged pine bark or a combination of this and other materials instead of using a standard potting mix since these usually have lime,” Ferguson said.
Giving the plants enough room to grow is crucial. When planting in the ground, space rabbiteye blueberries 5 to 6 feet apart. Southern highbush plants can be spaced 4 feet apart. Select adequately sized pots for container-grown blueberries.
Finally, mulch around the plants with more pine bark to maintain moisture and reduce competition with weeds for nutrients and water.
“Blueberries are shallow rooted, so weed management is important,” Ferguson said.
What next?
After you’ve planted your blueberries, keep them well watered — but not soggy. Consider installing a drip irrigation system if you’re planting a large number of bushes in fast-draining, sandy soil.
Newly planted blueberries are susceptible to overfertilization. Wait until leaves are fully expanded in the spring before making a light fertilizer application using something like 1 tablespoon of 13-13-13 or 2 tablespoons of cottonseed meal, Ferguson said. Spread fertilizer in a circle, keeping it several inches away from the base of the plant. Up to three more fertilizer applications can be made, at least four to six weeks apart, during spring and summer. Alternative fertilizers include 1/2 tablespoon of 33-0-0 or 2 teaspoons of ammonium sulfate. Plants in pots likely will need fertilizer that contains secondary and micronutrients as well, Ferguson said.
Residential Fire in Bogalusa Claims Life of 41-Year-Old Woman
The Louisiana Office of State Fire Marshal (SFM) reported Thursday (January 22, 2025) that the SFM is investigating a residential fire that claimed the life of a 41-year-old Bogalusa woman.
Washington Parish Fire District #6 responded at 7:04 a.m. Tuesday (January 20, 2026) to a structure fire in the 62000 block of Brown Road in Bogalusa. The cause of the fire remains under investigation, and officials have not ruled out space heaters or lithium-ion batteries as possible ignition sources. The identity of the victim has not been officially released.
The State Fire Marshal’s Office is reminding residents to practice home heating safety.
- If using a space heater, make sure it’s placed 3-5 feet away from objects that can catch fire easily like blankets and furniture.
- Ensure space heaters are plugged directly into a wall outlet as opposed to an extension cord or power strip.
- Space heaters should also always be turned off when you're going to sleep or leaving the room and/or home.
- Do not use ovens or stoves to heat your home.
- Make sure any open flames, like fireplaces and candles, are never left unattended.
- Have a working smoke alarm!
Investigators have not confirmed whether the home had a working smoke alarm. “Smoke alarms provide early warning and save lives,” said DPS Principal Assistant, Chief Bryan J. Adams. “It’s not the flames that kill, it’s the smoke.”
Residents are urged to check their smoke alarms regularly. Those in need of a free smoke alarm and installation can get one through the SFM’s Operation Save-A-Life program. For more information on fire safety or to request a free smoke alarm and installation, visit lasfm.org or contact your local fire department.
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today Mostly cloudy, with a high near 66. Light northeast wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Tonight Mostly cloudy, with a low around 44. Northeast wind around 10 mph.
Saturday A 90 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 57. East wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible.
Saturday Night A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 39. North wind 5 to 10 mph becoming south after midnight.
Sunday A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. High near 54. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon.
Sunday Night Mostly cloudy, with a low around 20. Northwest wind around 15 mph.
January 22, 2026
Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 19-21, 2026
Calvin Martin (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Bench Warrant/Failure to Appear, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, Driving Under Suspension, and Contempt of Court by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Odie Hughes (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Simple Battery of Infirm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Justin Crosswhite (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Parole Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Micheal James (age 58 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Use Turn Signal 100 FT Prior to Turn, No Taillight, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Gregory Levias (age 69 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Obstructing Public Passage(s), Failure to Use Turn Signal 100 FT Prior to Turn, Expired MVI, Driving Under Suspension, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Cocaine (28 to 200 Grams) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.
Damien Greely (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Tyron Nelson (age 26 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) and Probation and Parole Hold by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jessica Westbrook (age 39 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Contempt of Court by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.
Kaley Moore (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Speeding 21-30 Over Limit, Expired or No Inspection Sticker, Possession of Marijuana, Prohibited Acts/Schedule II, and Prohibited Acts by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.
Jessica Strain (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.
Parrish Holloway (age 44 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Driving Left of Center/Wrong Side of Hwy, No Drivers License, and Intentional Littering by the Louisiana State Police. No bond set at this time.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
Local Forecast for the Next Few Days
For an extended forecast and more details, go to our weather page.
Today A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 69. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.
Tonight A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly between 11pm and 5am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 55. Calm wind.
Friday A 30 percent chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 64. Light northeast wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning.
Friday Night A 30 percent chance of showers, mainly before midnight. Cloudy, with a low around 46. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday A 70 percent chance of showers, mainly after noon. Cloudy, with a high near 60. East wind 5 to 10 mph.
Saturday Night A 100 percent chance of showers and possibly a thunderstorm. Low around 37. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph becoming northwest after midnight.
January 21, 2026
MS Man Captured After 2-Yr. Abducted in Slidell
Orlando Gillum, age 53 and of Mississippi, is in custody after abducting a 2-year-old child, following
a domestic incident in Slidell.
Slidell Police responded last week to a reported domestic disturbance at a residence in the Slidell area. Upon arrival, officers learned that Gillum was involved in a domestic incident with his significant other. As a result of the incident, an adult female, and an infant child, sustained multiple bite wounds.
Following the incident, Gillum took his significant other’s vehicle and fled the scene while a 2-year-old child was still buckled inside. The 2-year-old was later determined not to be related to Gillum.
Slidell Police immediately began working to locate Gillum and determined that he traveled to the Picayune, Mississippi area. With assistance from the Picayune Police Department and the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office, Gillum was located hiding near a residence in Picayune, and was taken into custody without incident. At the time of his arrest, the vehicle and the 2-year-old child were not with him. Within moments, Picayune Police officers located the vehicle abandoned several blocks away, and thankfully found the 2-year-old child safe.
Gillum, who has a lengthy violent criminal history, is being charged with Aggravated Kidnapping of a Child, Domestic Abuse Battery - Child Endangerment, and Cruelty to a Juvenile.
***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***
All involved victims were transported to local hospitals for evaluation.
The Slidell Police Department would like to thank the Picayune Police Department, the Pearl River County Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisiana State Police for their swift assistance. Their coordinated efforts were instrumental in safely taking a violent offender into custody and quickly locating the abducted child, ensuring the child was brought to safety. This incident highlights the importance of strong interagency cooperation in protecting our communities and the most vulnerable among us.
**Note** Officials were in the process of preparing to send an Amber Alert, but the child was located before the need to send the alert.
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