Washington Parish Council Meeting: Final Entergy Report, State Park Trails Issue, & Polling Places

The Washington Parish Council met Monday (January 24, 2022) evening and 

• received the final report from Entergy on noise abatement at their plant outside of Bogalusa
• approved an ordinance adding Palestine Church Roa to the “No Thru Truck Routes”
• introduced two ordinances: one to amend the permit fee for telecommunications towers and one to amend the WPG Employees' Handbook concerning premium pay
• approved two resolutions: one to authorize the signing of the Louisiana Compliance Questionnaire for the audit of WPG for the year ended December 31, 2021 and one to make permanent the changing of certain polling places. See http://www.washingtonparishalerts.org/files/135006346.pdf
• postponed action on a resolution to enter into a contract with Flowmotion Trail Builders, LLC for additional mountain bike trails at the Bogue Chitto State Park

Entergy representative Patrick Hamby provided a final report (beginning at 2:00 into video of the meeting) on noise level mitigation efforts at their power plant outside of Bogalusa City limits. Hamby reported that the noise level has been reduced to around 45 decibels. The noise issue was first raised at an October, 2020 meeting of the Council. Complaints from residents near the plant were of noise levels in excess of 70 decibels. At the time, Calpine was the owner/operator of the plant and Entergy later took ownership of the plant. Aggressive action was requested and the Entergy representative committed to investigating and cooperating with the Council and residents to resolve problem. Entergy proceeded to investigate, made substantial investment in needed equipment, installed the equipment, and provided regular progress reports to the Council. The Council complimented Entergy on their efforts and indicated they were satisfied. Hamby thanked the Council and reiterated that Entergy is a “community partner” with Bogalusa and the Parish of Washington. Click here for previous related stories

Beginning at 8:00 into video of the meeting, the resolution to enter into a contract with Flowmotion Trail Builders, LLC for additional mountain bike trails at the Bogue Chitto State Park was considered and, ultimately, Council action on the resolution was postponed. At issue was conflicts with the mountain bike trails and horseback riding trails. Several persons who use the horseback riding trails spoke, with concerns of safety being prominent. The Council repeatedly advised that activities at the State Park is governed by the State – not the Council and that the Council encourages all to enjoy the State Park. The resolution before the Council was only to consider a $25,000 funding request. The Council postponed action to encourage a resolution of the conflict. 

Administrative reports were provided beginning at 35:00 into video of the meeting. 

Public Works Director provided COVID statistics with regard to positivity rate (declining), confirmed cases, deaths (one), vaccination rates, and encouraged all to be vaccinated. Wheat also provided information on parish bridges and expected substantial funding to repair/replace bridges.

Finance Director Donna Graham announced purchases to be made soon of needed equipment.

Donnell Merritt reported on work done by public work crews and described equipment obtained by Parish Government over the years to better serve the Parish. 

WP Council 01242022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 23-24, 2022

Benjamin Jacob (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $1500.00 bond.

Brandon Watts (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Illegal Discharge/Use of Weapon and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $8500.00 bond.

Shaun Hobgood (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Off-Road Vehicles Prohibited on Hwy, Possession of Heroin, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd Offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Christopher Schilling (Brookhaven, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Obstructing Public Passage(s), Resisting Arrest (2 counts), and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Cleotha Martin (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Reckless Operation of a Motor Vehicle, Resisting an Officer, Resisting Arrest, Obstruction of Justice, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (3 counts), Driving Under Suspension, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (2 counts), Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm (8 counts), Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule V Drugs, Possession of Contraband in a Correctional Facility (2 counts), an Probation an Parole Hold by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $305,000.00.

Bobby Starkey (Tickfaw, La. address) was booked on the charge of Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Justin Taylor (Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Joshua Abelseth (Hammond, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (3 counts) and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Obituary

Donald Christopher "Chris" Mitchell

May 27, 1968 - January 22, 2022

Obituary

James Allen Hartfield

March 31, 1978 - January 24, 2022

Today's Message From ADAPT

Learn more and "Like" ADAPT's Facebook page and visit their website. 

ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are 

1. To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
2. To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
3. To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Gov. Edwards Budget Priorities for Next Fiscal Year

Today (January 24, 2022), Gov. John Bel Edwards highlighted his budget priorities for the next fiscal year, which include significant new, recurring investments in education at every level, including at least a $1500 pay raise for teachers and monumental new investments in infrastructure across Louisiana.

“This is a budget I am proud of, this is a budget the Louisiana people can be proud of, and this is a budget I believe the Legislature can proudly support,” Gov. Edwards said.

Commissioner of Administration Jay Dardenne will formally present the budget to the Joint Legislative Committee on the Budget on Tuesday, January 25, 2022.

Click here to read the full press release

Inmate Death Reported at St. Tammany Parish Jail

On Sunday (January 23, 2022), a St. Tammany Parish Jail inmate was transported to a local area hospital, after suffering from an unknown medical condition. The inmate was pronounced deceased after being treated at the local area hospital.

Deputies observed the inmate, identified as 52-year-old Marcus Morris, to be in need of medical attention. Deputies and medical staff responded to the dorm, where Morris was located, and rendered first aid. Acadian ambulance responded and transported Morris to the local area hospital where medical personnel continued to provide medical treatment. Morris was pronounced deceased by the hospital staff.

The death is under investigation and pending the results of an autopsy by the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office. Further updates will be provided when more information is obtained.

Obituary

Melvin Remington

January 21, 1927 - January 22, 2022

Obituary

Barry Seal

January 19, 1952 - January 21, 2022

Obituary

Margie Ann Miller Stewart

October 1, 1939 - January 20, 2022

Obituary

Margarette Duke Galley

April 6, 1947 - January 21, 2022

Woman Dies Following Franklinton Mobile Home Fire

State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies continue investigating the circumstances surrounding a mobile home fire in Franklinton that claimed the life of a disabled woman. 

Just before 5:15 a.m. on Sunday, January 23, 2022, the Franklinton Fire Department responded to a report of a residential fire located in the 45000 block of Jamieson Creek Road. Firefighters were informed there was a woman inside who was unable to escape due to a disability. Tragically, the victim died before she could be rescued. While official identification and cause of death are pending with the coroner’s office, the victim is believed to be the 51-year-old homeowner.

Following an assessment of the scene, deputies determined the fire began in the bedroom where the victim was located. While the official cause of this fire remains undetermined at this time, SFM investigators are unable to rule out the possibility of an electrical malfunction due to improper and/or aged wiring.

In addition, deputies confirmed the mobile home did not have working smoke alarms. Smoke alarms are a proven tool to alert residents to a fire danger in order to escape safely, even in a mobile home. If you need assistance obtaining smoke alarms for your home, Operations Save-A-Life can help. The program partners with local fire departments to install smoke alarms for free. To learn more about Operation Save-A-Life, visit our website at lasfm.org.

Obituary

Shakerian Tremaine "Trey" Allen

August 13, 1993 - January 18, 2022

Obituary

Betty Ann Robinson

September 16, 1952 - January 11, 2022

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Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 20-22, 2022

John Thierry (Orlando, Fl. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Aggravated Flight from an Officer (2 counts), Improper Lane Usage, and Ran Stop Sign by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $7500.00 bond.

Kristien Copeland (Bush, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Shae Lacey (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment, Cruelty to a Juvenile(s), and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bon set at $1654.00.

Cathy Knight (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Distribution of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $75000.00.

Obituary

Betty Lynn Byrd Adams

August 17, 1934 - January 22, 2022

Obituary

Lloyd Timothy Thomas

August 29, 1937 - January 21, 2022

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Bicyclist from Angie Killed in Crash

Shortly before 7:00 p.m. on January 21, 2022, Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a bicyclist on LA Hwy 21 south of LA Hwy 436 in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of 70-year-old Barry Seal of Angie.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as Seal was traveling south on LA Hwy 21 on his bicycle. At the same time, a 2012 Chevrolet Traverse was traveling south on LA Hwy 21 behind Seal. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet struck the rear of the bicycle. 

Seal sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. All occupants in the Chevrolet were properly restrained and were not injured. As part of the ongoing investigation, toxicology samples were obtained from the driver and Seal for analysis.

Louisiana State Troopers wish to remind bicyclists to never assume that a motorist can see you. Simple precautions such as wearing an approved bicycle helmet, reflective materials, and avoiding distractions are key to preventing crashes and avoiding injuries. Louisiana law requires bicyclists to remain as close to the right of side of the roadway as practicable and obey all traffic laws.

Obituary

Cicero Josuke Holmes

October 20, 2021 - January 19, 2022

Obituary

Donna Brooks

November 16, 1957 - January 20, 2022

Obituary

Ricky Roach

March 29, 1955 - January 21, 2022

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Obituary

Ilene Murriel Peters

December 2, 1927 - January 20, 2022

Obituary

Andrew Judson Drummond

December 30, 1947 - January 14, 2022

Obituary

Oscar Roland Seal, Jr.

May 14, 1932 - January 20, 2022

Obituary

Joseph "J.V." Vincent Giacone

July 6, 1933 - January 18, 2022

Obituary

Apostle Willie B. Robinson

September 24, 1942 - January 12, 2022

Obituary

Nan Edwards Welch

December 30, 1954 - January 19, 2022

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Bogalusa Police Arrests 2 / Seize Drug and Cash

In January, 2022, the Bogalusa Police Department Violent Crimes Task Force began an investigation into illegal drug distribution by Cleon Lotts, from a residence in the 1100 block of East 7th Street in Bogalusa. After receiving information that Lotts was in Possession of a large quantity of illegal narcotics, a search warrant for his residence was obtained. On January 18, 2022, Task Force Officers, Detectives, and Criminal Patrol Officers executed the search warrant.

Officers located Cleon Lotts and Kimberly Owens inside the residence, and both were detained while a search was conducted. Lotts was emerging from the bathroom when officers entered the residence, and there was evidence that he flushed an amount of
crack cocaine. But the search of the entire residence revealed a variety of illegal narcotics throughout. 

The following illegal narcotics were seized: An amount of heroin, methamphetamine, crack cocaine, ecstasy (MDMA), three different types of Scheduled Narcotics, and over five pounds of marijuana. Additionally, $6,333 in U.S. Currency, suspected proceeds from the sale of illegal narcotics, was seized.

Cleon Lotts was charged with the following: Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession with Intent to Distribute Heroin, Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession with Intent to Distribute MDMA, 3 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule III Narcotics, 2 counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Narcotics, Possession of a Controlled Dangerous Substance in a Drug Free Zone, Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses, Obstruction of Justice – Felony, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Kimberly Owens was charged with Possession of Heroin and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. 

This is Lotts' ninth arrest by the Bogalusa Police Department. He is a convicted felon and has prior narcotics history. Lotts was booked into the Bogalusa City Jail and transferred to the Washington Parish Jail. The case will be forwarded to District Attorney Warren Montgomery’s office for prosecution.

Obituary

Sherry Traywick Hyde

November 03, 1960 - January 17, 2022

Obituary

Paulette Ann Prejeant Hymel

January 12, 1949 - January 19, 2022

Obituary

Kristina Marie Moak Stone

April 23, 1981 - January 17, 2022

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Vehicle Crashes During High-Speed Chase on Hwy. 25

Wednesday (January 19, 2021) afternoon, two Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies traveled to the intersection of Highway 25 north and Highway 38 in reference to reports of an unresponsive driver behind the wheel of a vehicle with the engine running. Once there, the deputies encountered a male in the driver’s seat who appeared to be asleep or passed out. After several attempts, the officers were able to arouse the man who appeared to be very confused.

The driver produced a Florida driver’s license identifying him as John Carl Brian Thierry, a resident of Orlando. He was instructed to exit the vehicle, at which time he sped off heading west on
Highway 38. With deputies in pursuit, he made a sudden stop and 
U-turn, heading east on Highway 38. At the intersection with Highway 25, he failed to stop and turned south on Highway 25 reaching speeds of 90 miles per hour and forcing other vehicles off of the roadway. As the pursuing officer closed in on him, Thierry slammed on brakes and made another U-turn heading north on Highway 25. He then made yet another sudden U-turn, heading south again. By this time, other Sheriff’s Office deputies had responded and were in the vicinity.

Suddenly, while traveling south, Thierry crossed the northbound lane onto the shoulder and struck a culvert before his vehicle went airborne and came to rest in the yard of a residence. Thierry was removed from the vehicle and handcuffed.

Northshore EMS, responded to the scene and medically evaluated and treated Thierry. Ambulance personnel then transported him to a hospital in St. Tammany Parish for further treatment.

Thierry’s vehicle was inventoried by deputies on the scene. Three firearms and more than six hundred dollars in loose bills scattered throughout the vehicle were recovered and placed in evidence for safekeeping.

A warrant for Thierry’s arrest was obtained through a 22nd Judicial District Court Judge. Upon Thierry’s release from the hospital, he will be arrested and jailed on charges of aggravated flight from an officer, resisting an officer, reckless operation of a motor vehicle, traveling at an unsafe speed and other traffic offenses. Bond will be set by the Magistrate Judge.

“What a blessing that no officers or other motorists were injured during Mr. Thierry’s episode of senseless behavior,” stated Sheriff Randy Seal. “What was he doing in Washington Parish? Why was he asleep at the wheel? Why did he flee? These are questions that, hopefully, can be answered one day as he stands before a judge. His behavior certainly jeopardized the safety of numerous persons and he must be held accountable.”

Obituary

Rhonda Jean Morris Richard

June 21, 1957 - January 17, 2022

Today's Message From ADAPT

Learn more and "Like" ADAPT's Facebook page and visit their website. 

ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are 

1. To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
2. To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
3. To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 19, 2022

Dona Spears (Poplarville, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Devion Dean (New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Chandler Stokes (New Orleans, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, and Illegal Carrying of Weapon by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kimberly Owens (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Heroin by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Cleon Lotts (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs (3 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs (5 counts), Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule IV Drugs (2 counts), Drug Free Zone Violation, Transactions Involving Proceeds from Drug Offenses, Obstruction of Justice/Damage/Conceal/Vandalism, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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One Bogalusan Arrested / One Wanted in Foxworth Murder

January 20, 2022 Update: Marion County Sheriff's Office reports that Jerliyah Pinestraw has been located and interviewed by Investigators. The Sheriff’s Office is no longer seeking her whereabouts.

On Tuesday (January 18, 2022) at 11:38 p.m., Marion County (MS) deputies were dispatched to a reported shooting at 171 Highway 587, Foxworth, Mississippi. Deputies arrived to find multiple victims suffering from gunshot wounds. Witnesses advised that two suspects fled the scene on foot.

Deputies found Hannah Gomez (age 21 and of Foxworth) injured during the shooting. She was transported to a local hospital, then airlifted to a trauma center in critical condition for treatment. Divontay Lashad Davis was treated and released from a local hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. An unresponsive female, identified as Jada Jefferson (age 20 and of Foxworth), suffered multiple gunshot wounds and was pronounced deceased. 

A responding Investigator made contact with Kyndall Carter, age 19 and of Bogalusa, nearby on foot. Carter matched the description of one of the suspects and witnesses advised that Carter was involved in the shooting. Carter was placed into custody, transported to the Marion County Sheriff's Office to be interviewed. Carter was later charged with Murder and 2 counts of Aggravated Assault. 

Investigators are actively searching for person of interest Jerliyah Keishali Pinestraw of Bogalusa, Louisiana.

Assisting the Marion County Sheriff's Office was the Hattiesburg Police Department Crime Scene Unit, Columbia Police Department, Marion County Coroner Jesse Graham, the 15th Judicial District Attorney's Office, AAA Ambulance Service, and the Foxworth Fire Department.

The Investigation is ongoing and if you have any information regarding this incident or know the whereabouts of Pinestraw, contact the Marion County Sheriff's Office at (601) 736-5051.

Order Free At-Home COVID-19 Tests

Residential households in the U.S. can order one set of 4 free at-home tests. The order includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests and will ship free starting in late January.

Click here to order

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 15-18, 2022

Shamar Alexander (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Non-Consensual Disclosure of Private Picture by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Paytrin Rivers (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Richard Kuhn (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Treyvion Tate (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $7500.00 bond.

Christopher Tyson (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Negligent Homicide and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $30750.00 bond.

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

Jeffery Quave (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd Offense) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

William McCrory (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Burglary of Inhabited Dwelling, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia (3rd Offense), and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Christopher Gutierrez (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Speeding 11-20 Over Limit, Failure of Non-Res to Secure Registration in La., and Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Today's Message From ADAPT

Learn more and "Like" ADAPT's Facebook page and visit their website. 

ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are 

1. To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
2. To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
3. To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

Obituary

Betty Bankston Westmoreland

January 18, 1938 - January 17, 2022

Schools in WPSS to be Virtual Jan. 19-21

Obituary

Marie M. Mizell

May 9, 1930 - January 17, 2022

Obituary

Gary Wayne Pittman, Sr.

November 8, 1955 - January 15, 2022

Obituary

Melvin Freeman

October 14, 1938 - January 17, 2022

Obituary

Margaret Rudolph Sartin

April 4, 1939 - January 13, 2022

Obituaries

Jayden Terrell Williams and Jalen Trumine Williams

January 9, 2022 - January 9, 2022

Obituary

Juanita Travillion Brown

January 1, 1921 - January 13, 2022

LSU AgCenter Will Hold Watermelon Education Meeting

The LSU AgCenter will hold a meeting for watermelon growers from 6:00 to 8:00 PM on Thursday, January 27, 2022, at the AgCenter’s Washington Parish office (1104-B Bene St., Franklinton). Weed, disease, and insect management, as well as fertilization and pollination will be addressed. Speakers will include Drs. Mary Helen Ferguson and Ron Strahan of the LSU AgCenter and Mr. Perry Talley of the newly formed Washington Parish Watermelon, Fruit, and Vegetable Association.

Please RSVP to Horticulture Agent Mary Helen Ferguson (mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu, 985-277-1850, or 985-839-7855) if you plan to come. For accommodations for persons with disabilities, please contact her at least one week before the event.

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Obituary

Mary Elizabeth Knight Ewell

July 2, 1935 - January 16, 2022

Washington Parish COVID Self-Test Locations

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Obituary

Jerry Everette Spillman, Jr.

November 21, 1941 - January 14, 2022

Obituary

Reginald Lynn "Reggie" Stogner

October 29, 1959 - January 15, 2022

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Obituary

Candice Louise Bennett

November 23, 1980 - January 14, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 14, 2022

Darryl Singleton (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass, Resisting Arrest by Flight, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Contempt of Court, and Theft Less Than 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Cara McLendon (Foxworth, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Garath Brown (Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Battery of a Dating Partner and Theft 1000-5000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Two Wanted by Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office is asking for your assistance in locating 32-year-old Jordan Anthony of Loranger and 27-year-old Damarco Addison of Independence. 

Anthony is wanted for a Failure to Appear warrant and for questioning in the theft of a motor vehicle from a church on E Cooper Road in Loranger which occurred on January 10, 2022. Detective Foster is the lead investigator on this case and can be reached at 985-902-2035.

Addison is wanted on warrants charging him with Convicted felon in Possession of a Firearm, Illegal Possession of Stolen Firearms, and Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Narcotics. On January 11, 2022, TPSO Detectives alongside United States Marshals executed a search warrant at the residency of Damarco Addison (B/M 27-years-old) of Independence, La. Inside the residence, detectives located a stolen AR-15 rifle, a large amount of suspected Marijuana, and items typically used in the distribution/sale of illegal narcotics. Sergeant McGovern is the lead investigator on this case and can be reached at 985-748-3337.

Chief Jimmy Travis asks if you have any information on the whereabouts of Anthony or Addison to please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips. 

Every person accused of any crime is considered innocent until proven guilty.

Two St. Tammany Teens Arrested for Terrorizing

Two teens have been arrested on charges of Terrorizing and Obstruction following an investigation by St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives.

Just after midnight on Thursday, January 13, 2022, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office received information from the school board indicating that a 15 year old female from Lacombe made threats of violence towards local area schools. During the course of the investigation, it was determined a 15 year old female from the Slidell area was also involved. Both juveniles were quickly apprehended by detectives.

The 15 year old female from Lacombe was charged with Terrorizing and Obstruction. The Slidell area 15 year old female was charged with Terrorizing. It was determined both juveniles are former students of the St. Tammany Parish School System. Furthermore, detectives concluded that, other than the threats being made, none of the local area schools in question were in danger during this time period. 

Both juveniles were booked into the Florida Parishes Detention Center. Due to the age of the suspects, no further information will be released regarding this incident.

Obituary

Ross LeGette Burris

April 13, 1934 - December 12, 2021

A Text-Book Case: Madisonville Burglary Solved & Sentence Imposed Timely

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that Jamie Lynn Bridgewater, age 35 from Ponchatoula, pleaded guilty as charged on Monday, January 10, 2022 to one count of simple burglary. The plea was taken by District Judge Vincent Lobello. He was sentenced to 12 years in the Department of Corrections at hard labor, which is the maximum sentence for simple burglary.

On September 8, 2021, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was dispatched regarding a burglary at a Madisonville business. The victim reported that his box trailer lock had been cut off and that 12 tools including drills, a jigsaw, worm saw, air compressor and other items were stolen. An eye witness had observed a middle-aged black male in a tan sedan backed into a driveway and placing large objects into his car trunk. As he drove off she was able to photograph the vehicle.

The victim was notified shortly thereafter that one of his stolen items had been posted for sale on Facebook Marketplace. Posing as a buyer, the victim contacted the seller/defendant on Facebook. The defendant informed the victim that only an air compressor was still available for sale. The victim asked for the defendant’s location in Ponchatoula and found his stolen air compressor in the defendant’s open trunk. Victim then reported to Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office who picked up the defendant, who subsequently confessed in an interview. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was notified.

ADA Tiffany Dover prosecuted the case. We would like to thank the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office who worked in conjunction with the Tangipahoa Sheriff’s office to investigate the case.

Lacombe Man Dies in House Fire Trying to Rescue Dogs

State Fire Marshal (SFM) deputies continue investigating the circumstances surrounding a house fire in Lacombe that claimed the life of a male resident on Tuesday (January 11, 2022).

In the early morning hours, St. Tammany Fire District #3 responded to a report of a residential fire in the 27000 block of Washington Street in Lacombe. Firefighters arrived on scene to locate one occupant safely evacuated outside of the home and learned there was a second occupant who had originally escaped but reentered the home in an attempt to save pet dogs and never came back out. That victim was located and transported to a local hospital for treatment but unfortunately died the following day. The status of the dogs is unknown at this time.

While official identification and cause of death are pending with the Coroner’s Office, the victim is believed to be a 60-year-old resident of the home.

Following an assessment of the scene, deputies determined the fire began in the home’s living room. 

Quilt Exhibit at the D. A. Varnado Store Museum

Source: Vicki Pichon Knight post to the Tourism Commission FB page

Vicki Pichon Knight shared that “the most popular exhibit”, the Quilt Exhibit, is completed at the D. A. Varnado Store Museum on Pearl Street behind the parish courthouse in Franklinton. 

The many gorgeous quilts, old and new, loaned and part of the Museum's collection may be seen on the weekends in January and February 2022. See the Facebook and web page for hours. Free admission. 

The annual quilt seminar will be held at the Museum Annex on February 19, 2022.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for January 13, 2022

Tommy Freeman (Varnado, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving Under Suspension, Issuing Worthless Checks Under 1000, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Thomas Davis (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Battery of Infirm and Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jessica Poupart (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule II Drugs and Distribution of Schedule 1 Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Michael Wise (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Victoria Kennedy (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery, Bank Fraud (4 counts), Exploitation of the Infirm, and Theft 1000-5000 (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Dynell Dyson (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery, Bank Fraud (4 counts), Exploitation of the Infirm, and Theft 1000-5000 (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Leandrus Brooks (Independence, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment and Unauthorized Use of a Motor Vehicle by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Obituary

Carolyn Helen Rawls Bullock

May 17, 1940 - January 12, 2022

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Today's Message From ADAPT

Learn more and "Like" ADAPT's Facebook page and visit their website. 

ADAPT, INC. is a nonprofit organization whose goals are 

1. To prevent child abuse and neglect before it happens by delivering research based prevention programs.
2. To provide child abuse prevention and direct services to victims which includes a variety of programs and services.
3. To provide sexual assault prevention and direct services to assault victims which includes: operating a 24/7 crisis hotline; providing hospital and law enforcement victim advocates 24/7; providing sexual assault information, prevention education, professional training, awareness campaigns, inter-agency collaboration, and victim support and counseling.
4. To provide prevention and educational services targeting substance abuse. 

Obituary

Shawn Ledell Fox, Sr.

January 15, 1976 - January 8, 2022