Bogalusa Council Appoints Crime Prevention Commission Chairman

Dr. Charles T. Kelly, Jr., a resident of Bogalusa and 37- year law enforcement veteran, was appointed Chairman of the Crime Prevention Commission at the Tuesday (June 7, 2022) meeting of the Bogalusa City Council. The Commission will be composed of nine members (appointed to two year terms) plus the Mayor and Police Chief. The Commission is to serve as an advisory body whose purpose will be to advise the City Council on matters pertaining to the reduction of crime, to assist the police department and other law enforcement agencies, and to generate citizen support and participation in effective community crime prevention programs. Persons interested in serving on the Commission should contact their Councilperson or via email to the Bogalusa city council office attention Brenda.ford@bogalusa.org.

Hopefully, the steps being taken to create and organize the Crime Prevention Commission will lead to effectively addressing and reducing the level of crime that exists in the City. Appointing Dr. Kelly, an extremely qualified professional, and organizing the Commission's membership are important first steps. Everyone wants a safer City. Again, hopefully, the Commission, the Police Department, the Sheriff's Office, the Council, and the Mayor can effectively work together to find answers.

Following action on mostly routine matters on the Agenda, the Council heard from a number residents during Public Participation (beginning at 20:45 into video of the meeting), regarding various problems. Of particular note is unresolved problems at Bogalusa Cemetery that includes exposed vaults and maintenance. Council members, the Mayor, and the Public Works Director responded to the issues. 

During Administrative Remarks, reports were made (beginning at 54:00 into video of the meeting) for Parks and Recreation, the Police Department, and Public Works. Mayor Perrette provided additional comments and updates beginning 1:12:40 into video of the meeting. THESE REPORTS AND THE MAYOR'S REMARKS PROVIDE VALUABLE INFORMATION AND PERSPECTIVE. PLEASE WATCH.

Dr. Kelly spoke briefly – meet him – at 1:22:20 into video of the meeting.

Following remarks by the Council, the meeting was adjourned.

Bogalusa Council 06072022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 9, 2022

Jeffery Brumfield (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (4 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Johnathan Williams (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (4 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $800.00.

Lamont Perkins (Slidell, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Stolen Property (2 counts) and Motor Vehicle Alteration or Removal of Identifying Numbers by the Bogalusa Police Department. Released on $1500.00 bond.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Justice Department to Investigate Louisiana State Police

The Justice Department announced today (June 9, 2022) that is has opened a pattern or practice investigation into the Louisiana State Police (LSP). This civil investigation will assess whether LSP uses excessive force and whether it engages in racially discriminatory policing. The investigation will include a comprehensive review of LSP policies, training, supervision, and force investigations, as well as LSP’s systems of accountability, including misconduct complaint intake, investigation, review, disposition, and discipline.

Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke for the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division said (in part), “Based on an extensive review of publicly available information and information provided to us, we find significant justification to investigate whether Louisiana State Police engages in excessive force and engages in racially discriminatory policing against Black residents and other people of color.”

The investigation is separate from any federal criminal investigation of LSP troopers. 

Prior to the announcement, department officials informed Governor John Bel Edwards, Colonel Lamar Davis, and Deputy General Counsel Gail Holland of the investigation. They pledged to cooperate with the investigation. As part of this investigation, the department officials will reach out to community groups and members of the public to learn about their experiences with LSP.

Individuals with relevant information are encouraged to contact the Department of Justice via email at Community.Louisiana@usdoj.gov or by phone at (202) 353-0684. Individuals can also report civil rights violations regarding this or other matters using the Civil Rights Division’s reporting portal, available at civilrights.justice.gov.

Click here to read the entire press release

Click here for statements from Gov. John Bel Edwards and Col. Lamar Davis

LSU AgCenter Will Hold Watermelon Weed Management Demonstration

Weed management is one of a multitude of challenges that vegetable growers face. LSU AgCenter weed scientist Dr. Ron Strahan and research associate Mr. David Sexton have applied different herbicide treatments to plots in Mr. Perry Talley’s watermelon field in the Rio community of Washington Parish to demonstrate their comparative effectiveness. A demonstration of the results of these treatments will be held at 9:00 AM on Thursday, June 16, 2022. 

Those who would like to view these plots and discuss watermelon weed management are welcome to attend. If you plan to come, please contact horticulture agent Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson (mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850) for directions to the field or for accommodations for persons with disabilities. 

The LSU AgCenter and LSU provide equal opportunities in programs and employment. 

Note that Mr. Talley’s farm is wholesale only and does not offer watermelon sales to individuals.

Obituary

Micheal Anthony Wallace

May 10, 1975 - June 4, 2022

Washington Parish Government Accepting Bids for Surplus Equipment

From Washington Parish Government Director of Finance Donna W. Graham

“Washington Parish Government will be accepting SEALED BIDS on used, surplus equipment until 10:00 a.m. on Friday July 1, 2022. Each bid should be submitted on our “Official Bid Form” clearly  identifying the piece of equipment, amount of bid, bidder’s name and contact information and should be enclosed in a sealed envelope. Official bid forms are available at Washington Parish Government’s Administrative Office located at 909 Pearl Street, Franklinton, LA, or may be requested by email at btoney@wpgov.org. The sealed envelope should be plainly marked on the outside with the following information:

• “sealed bid – Surplus Property Sale”

• Equipment number or numbers 

Bids should be delivered to the Washington Parish Government Administrative offices located at 909 Pearl Street in Franklinton, LA, no later than 10:00 a.m., Friday, July 1, 2022.

Items may be viewed at Location 2 which is located at 23052 YACC Rd Franklinton, LA 70438 Monday-Friday between 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Additional information concerning the equipment may be obtained by contacting the Fleet Equipment Manager, Brad Toney at 985.335.1309."

Washington Parish Government Accepting RFP's for Disaster Debris Monitoring and Management Services

Washington Parish Government is interested in procuring the services of a company to assist with Disaster Debris Monitoring and Management Services. Request for proposals will be received by the Washington Parish Government at the Washington Parish Government Office, 909 Pearl Street, Franklinton LA,70438 no later than 4:00 p.m. on Wednesday, June 29, 2022.

All responses received will be evaluated in accordance with the selection criteria identified in the request for proposals packet. The packet also contains the scope of services to be performed by the selected company. The Parish will award the contract to the respondent obtaining the highest  recommendation based upon a parish selection committee review of the written Request for Proposals.

Interested parties are invited to secure a proposal package from Ken Wheat, Department of Public Works for Washington Parish Government, 909 Pearl Street, Franklinton LA, 70438, 985.335.1312, email kwheat@wpgov.org, or Donna Graham 985.335.1301, email dgraham@wpgov.org.

Washington Parish Government provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation and training.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 8, 2022

Devin Knight (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of License Plate Required, Open Container in Vehicle, Contributing to Delinquency of a Juvenile, Possession of CDS in Presence of Juvenile, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, and Possession of Schedule 1/Tetrahydrocannabinols or Synthetic Cannabinoids by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Jeffery Talley (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contributing to Delinquency of a Juvenile, Possession of CDS in Presence of Juvenile, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Possession of Schedule 1/Tetrahydrocannabinols or Synthetic Cannabinoids, and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5500.00 bond.

Samantha Creel (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released June 8, 2022.

Jeremy Dickerson (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.

James Morgan (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Lane Usage, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Michael Briggs (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Cathy Knight (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Distribution of Schedule II CDS by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $75000.00.

Timothy Wood (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Crime Against Nature by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Update from Our Legislators is June 14th - Open to the Public - Sponsored by Rotary

Obituary

Lorraine Talbot Keller

August 4, 1937 - June 7, 2022

Covington Police to Enforce Juvenile Curfews

Statement from Covington Police Department 

“With school being out for the  summer, the Covington Police Department has seen an increase in juvenile curfew violations since the summer has begun. Normally there is nothing good that happens in the middle of the night, and there is no reason for juveniles to be wandering the streets during the late-night hours. For this reason, you will see an increase in juvenile curfew enforcement.

According to the City of Covington Ordinance Sec 66-112, any person under the age of 17 years of age and younger must follow the following curfew hours:

Sunday – Thursday: 11:00 PM – 5:00 AM

Friday – Saturday: 12:01 AM – 5:00 AM

Any juvenile found in violation of this ordinance may be relocated to the Covington Police Department, where we will contact the guardian of the juvenile. Once the guardian arrives to pick up their child, we may cite that guardian for violation of this ordinance.”

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 7, 2022

Kelvin Thomas (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Drivers License Not on Person, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5500.00 bond.

Bobby Williams (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $500.00.

Damon Brown (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Home Invasion/Vanalism/Destruction, Obstructing Public Passage(s), and Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $15000.00.

Kimberly Smith (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

James Singletary (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 1000-5000 by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Donna Rogers (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $2500.00 bond.

Obituary

John Wesley "Johnny" Penton

March 28, 1973 - June 3, 2022

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Obituary

Brandon Dewitt Readlinger

September 27, 1979 - June 5, 2022

Obituary

Nather Lee Bell

August 9, 1948 - June 6, 2022   

Obituary

Priscilla Crain Dyson

September 16, 1950 - June 3, 2022

Obituary

Margaret Miller Ryals

December 29, 1934 - June 5, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 6, 2022

Nevers Nichols (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS, Distribution of Schedule II CDS, Contempt of Court, an Transactions Involving Proceeds From Drug Offenses by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $251000.00.

Christopher Pounds (Covington, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Home Invasion, Simple Battery, and Resisting an Officer by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $25000.00.

Thomas Allemand (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Hit and Run, Driving Under Suspension, Switched License Plates, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Probation and Parole Hold by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Justin Richard (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jennifer Hulin (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Turn Signals, Child Restraint Violation, No Seat Belt, Resisting an Officer, Failure to Appear (2 counts), Contempt of Court (2 counts), and Driving Under Suspension by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Reminder: Canine Carnival is Saturday at the Fairgrounds

Obituary

Michael Allen Smith

May 4, 1948 - June 3, 2022

Obituary

Doralee Naquin Authement

February 12, 1942 - June 4, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 3-5, 2022

Randi McGrew (Slidell, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Domestic Violence Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Matthew Perry (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Contempt of Court and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jason Conerly (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked In From Court

Justin Castilow (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Pay Fine by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $150.00.

Kayla Levi (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Battery of Infirm and Purse Snatching by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $30000.00.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Toddler Killed in Washington Parish Crash

This morning (June 5, 2022), shortly after 10:30 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a one vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 440, near LA Hwy 450, in Washington Parish. The crash claimed the life of one-year-old Caisen Williams of Mount Hermon.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as a 2008 Chevrolet Impala, driven by Catlin Williams of Mount Hermon, was westbound on LA Hwy 440. For reasons still under investigation, the Chevrolet traveled off of the roadway to the right. After leaving the roadway, the Chevrolet became airborne and overturned. During the crash, Caisen was ejected from the vehicle. 

Caisen Williams was unrestrained and sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. He was pronounced deceased on the scene. Catlin Williams was also unrestrained and sustained serious injuries as a result of the crash. He was transported to an area hospital. 

Impairment is not suspected to be a factor in this crash. A toxicology sample was obtained for analysis. This crash remains under investigation and Troopers will forward their findings to the Washington Parish District Attorney’s office for consultation of criminal and/or traffic violations pending the completion of the investigation. 

Every occupant in a motor vehicle is required by Louisiana law to be properly restrained in a seat belt or child restraint. It is proven that car seats and booster seats save lives and prevent injuries. Child safety seats offer the best protection for children in the event of a crash; however, approximately 3 out of 4 car seats are not used correctly. 

Troop L headquarters is a nationally recognized Child Seat Fitting Station. Certified car seat technicians are available every Tuesday from 2:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. at 2600 North Causeway Blvd. in Mandeville, no appointment necessary. If you have questions about your child’s seat or would like to ensure your seat is installed correctly, please visit Troop L headquarters. You can also visit: Louisiana Highway Safety Commission to find the nearest fitting station in your area. Please view all statewide events and updated safety information at BuckleUpLouisiana.com. 

Splatter Beat is July 23rd at Cassidy Park

For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/bogalusaparksrecreationandculture

FOAM PARTY is July 23rd in Cassidy Park

For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/bogalusaparksrecreationandculture

"Scooters, Skateboards & Skates" is June 18th in Bogalusa

For more information, go to https://www.facebook.com/bogalusaparksrecreationandculture

Obituary

Margaret “Sissy” Allen Lawson Oliver

May 28, 1932 - June 4, 2022

Tropical Disturbances Today

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Obituary

Sarah Leuna Kitchens Peterson

July 15, 1938 - June 4, 2022

Motorcyclist Dies in Crash Near Folsom

A 49-year-old Hammond man has died following a crash that occurred Friday (June 3, 2022) evening near Folsom. Deputies with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Traffic Division are investigating the crash of the victim's motorcycle into the back of a trailer being pulled behind a truck on Willie Road shortly before 7 p.m. The truck pulling the trailer was westbound on Willie Road, when it slowed down to pull into a private driveway on the north side of Willie Road near the intersection of Booth Road. For unknown reasons, the motorcycle collided with the rear of the trailer. 

Emergency medical personnel transported the driver of the motorcycle to a local hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries. 

Intoxication is not suspected, but toxicology is pending, and the crash is still under investigation.

The identity of the motorcycle driver is not being released at this time, pending notification of family members.  

Juneteenth Event is Next Saturday in Bogalusa

Obituary

William H Freeman

January 9, 1968 - June 2, 2022

Tropical Disturbances Today

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Kentwood Arson Suspect Finally Caught

Agents with the Louisiana Office of Forestry report that 32 year-old John Grady Davidson has been arrested in the arson investigation regarding numerous wildfires on Olon Bankston Road in Kentwood.

On May 2, 2022, agents obtained four arrest warrants for Davidson related to arson. On May 3, 2022, forestry agents and deputies from the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) observed Davidson’s vehicle on Highway 1054 near Highway 16 in Amite; however, Davidson had fled on foot prior to the vehicle stopping along the dark roadway. After attempting to evade law enforcement, the driver, Michael Warren of Loranger, was detained and found to be in possession of suspected  methamphetamine.

On June 2, 2022, TPSO deputies located Davidson, took him into custody on unrelated charges and transported him to the TPSO Jail. Forestry agents arrived at the jail and booked Davidson on the four outstanding felony warrants for Simple Arson.

“Arson is a very serious crime. Unintentionally starting a fire or worse, deliberately setting a fire, during a drought like much of South Louisiana is experiencing, could have wide and catastrophic repercussions,” said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain, DVM. “LDAF enforcement agents take agriculture and forestry-related crimes seriously and they will seek justice when individuals break the law.”

If convicted, Davidson could face fines of not more than $15,000 and imprisoned at hard labor for not more than 15 years.

Note: All persons accused of any crime are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The public is urged to report any and all forestry-related crimes to the LDAF 24-hr hotline at 1-855-452-5323.

Obituary

Jean Jones

October 1, 1947 - June 2, 2022

Bogalusan Damion Thompson Gets Life in Prison for Murder

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Thursday (June 2, 2022), Damion D. Thompson, age 30 and of Bogalusa, was sentenced by District Judge Raymond Childress to life in prison without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence for 2nd degree murder in the death of Marcus Tennison, a 36-year-old Bogalusa man. In addition, Thompson was sentenced to 2 years for illegal use of a weapon and 10 years for aggravated battery. The sentences are to run consecutive to each other. A jury unanimously found him guilty on February 22, 2022.

In August of 2020, the Bogalusa Police Department received a report of multiple gun shots in the area of Austin Street at Coburn Street. The victim had been shot multiple times and pronounced deceased on the scene. Law enforcement was able to locate eye witnesses, and one told police that they had seen the defendant shoot the victim outside of a bar. A second victim in this matter, a 40-year-old Bogalusa man, was shot in the hand as he happened to be in the line of fire.

ADA’s Luke Lancaster and Tiffany Dover prosecuted the case.

Click here for more details and previous related stories

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 2, 2022

Brandon Ishee (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Arson by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Shannon Caples (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft 1000-5000 and Terrorizing by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $12500.00.

Crystal Duncan (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $49000.00.

Carey Gendron (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Simple Burglary and Criminal Trespass by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5159.00.

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.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. No threat to our neck of the woods. The National Hurricane Center is issuing advisories on Potential Tropical Cyclone One, located near the northeastern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula.  The disturbance is expected to become a tropical storm over the southeastern Gulf of Mexico later today. Tropical storm conditions are expected in western Cuba today and tonight, in Florida tonight and Saturday, and the Bahamas on Saturday. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 90%. Formation chance through 5 days is also at 90%. 

Disturbance 2. No threat to our neck of the woods. A small area of low pressure located more than 200 miles west-southwest of Bermuda is producing a small area of showers and thunderstorms. This system only has a brief window for further development today before environmental conditions become increasingly unfavorable by this weekend. This system is expected to move generally eastward to the south of Bermuda. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 10% and formation chance through 5 days is also at 10%. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

STPSO Warning: Mail Thefts Leading to Bank Fraud

After experiencing what appears to be an uptick in bank fraud cases tied to mail thefts, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Randy Smith is warning residents to take extra precautions when mailing checks and other documents with personal identifying information.

The blue mail collection boxes, commonly seen outside post offices and at other locations, have become a target for thieves who steal and alter mailed checks and money orders. Criminals use the banking information obtained from the stolen mail to create fake checks and drain victims’ accounts.

While this has been an issue nationwide for years, detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Property Crimes Division, working together with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the local police departments, have seen an increase in these thefts locally, prompting Sheriff Smith to encourage residents to refrain from using the blue mail collection boxes when mailing checks or money orders.

Instead of using the blue collection boxes for outgoing mail, Sheriff Smith suggested the following tips:

• Place outgoing mail into the mail slot inside the lobby of local post office or hand it directly to a postal service worker at the counter.
• If you use a blue collection box, place mail in the box just before the last collection time of the day. This time is usually displayed on the box. The longer mail stays in the box, the more susceptible it is to theft.
• After mailing a check or a money order, confirm with the recipient that they have received it.

Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Property Crimes Division said they have also had reports of mail being stolen out of clustered mailboxes outside of apartment complexes and businesses.  

Most of these thefts also occur during the nighttime hours. To help protect your mail from being stolen, never leave mail sitting in your box overnight. Check your mailbox as soon as you get home in the evening and wait until morning to leave your outgoing mail.

Obscenity Suspect Surrenders in Covington

Today (Thursday, June 2, 2022), 28 year-old Bryan Paul Guillerman turned himself into the Covington Police Department and has been charged with Obscenity, a felony. He was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail and bond has been set at $10,000.00.

Covington Police reported that on Tuesday (May 17, 2022), at approximately 11:00 AM, CPD responded to a call about a white male walking up to the cashier at Big Lots, located at 1200 US Business Highway 190, with his genitals exposed while paying for a drink. 

CPD secured footage of the incident, posted images on their Facebook page, and requested the public's assistance. Guillerman was identified as the suspect and a warrant was obtained for his arrest.

Summer Meals Being Served at Bogalusa City Schools

Obituary

Shirley Ann Burr

May 15, 1935 - June 1, 2022

Obituary

Perry Martin Keen

June 17, 1953 - May 31, 2022

Obituary

Jessica LeAnn Jenkins

January 26, 1981 - May 30, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for June 1, 2022

William Beal (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse Battery and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Edward Taylor (Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Latrevious Lucas (Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $200000.00.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. A broad area of low pressure located over the northeastern portion of the Yucatan Peninsula continues to produce a large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and Yucatan Peninsula.  This system is likely to become a tropical depression or tropical storm while it moves slowly northeastward over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and southeastern Gulf of Mexico during the next day or two.  Interests in western Cuba, the Florida Keys, and the Florida Peninsula should monitor the progress of this system, and tropical storm watches or warnings could be required for some of these areas later today. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 80% and formation chance through 5 days is also at 80%. 

Disturbance 2. A weak surface trough is located about 200 miles east-northeast of the northwestern Bahamas has diminished. Development of this system is not expected. Formation chance through 48 hours is near 0% and formation chance through 5 days is also near 0%. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

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.

Message From Parish President Thomas on Hurricane Season

“Today, June 1, 2022, marks the beginning of hurricane season. NOAA has predicted an above average hurricane season with 14-21 named storms, 6-10 hurricanes and 3-6 major hurricanes. 

Early preparation is key, and I urge each and every citizen to begin preparing now to be self-sufficient for at least 3 days by putting together an emergency kit. You can download your emergency kit checklist at: https://www.ready.gov/kit. Conducting drills are very important so that every person in your household knows where the safe location is for each type of emergency, and the best evacuation route from your home should the situation warrant. 

Lastly, I ask that we all be good neighbors, check on your elderly and disabled neighbors to make sure they have prescription medications, non-perishable foods, drinking water, and a list of emergency contact numbers. Remember that many senior citizens are on fixed incomes and may not have the resources to prepare. If you can help, I encourage you to do so.

Stay weather aware and remain vigilant during this season!!!"

Richard N. Thomas, Jr., Parish President

Obituary

Rhonda K. Mitchell

May 13, 1960 - May 23, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for May 30-31, 2022

Otis Jupiter (Baton Rouge, La. address) was booked on the charges of Bond Surrender and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $130000.00.

Hunter Creel (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Domestic Abuse Assault by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Derrick Gibson (Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000, Resisting an Officer, Aggravated Resisting by Flight, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility, and Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jacob Dykes (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Pregnant Woman and Domestic Abuse/Child Endangerment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Wyatt Dugar (Folsom, La. address) was booked on the charges of Improper Equipment, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, No Drivers License, Registration/No Proof/Must Carry, and Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Vernon Lowe (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Jona Hazelwood (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute 1 Drugs and Distribution of Schedule 1 CDS by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $30000.00 bond.

Justin Stafford (Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Criminal Damage to Property Under 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released May 31, 2022.

Obituary

Lennie Jean Alford Mayor

February 3, 1938 - May 30, 2022

Obituary

Betty Jean Goings Magee

October 23, 1937 - May 30, 2022

Obituary

Efrain "Frank" Lugo, Sr.

August 31, 1937 - May 30, 2022

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Near the Yucatan Peninsula and southeastern Gulf of Mexico is a  large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms associated with a broad area of low pressure. This system is likely to become a tropical depression while it moves northeastward over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and southeastern Gulf of Mexico during the next couple of days. Interests in the Yucatan Peninsula, western Cuba, the Florida Keys, and the Florida Peninsula should monitor the progress of this system. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 70% and formation chance through 5 days is at 80%. 

Disturbance 2. A weak surface trough located around 200 miles northeast of the central Bahamas is producing disorganized shower activity as it interacts with an upper-level trough. Significant development of this system appears unlikely as it moves generally east-northeastward over the next several days away from the southeastern United States. Formation chance through 48 hours is at 10% and formation chance through 5 days is at 10%. 

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

(click image below for a clearer picture)

Give Back in Franklinton: Winn-Dixie Community Bag Program

This year, local community non-profits are more in need of support than in any other time in the recent years’ past. Now shoppers can give back to the local community and help to reduce single-use plastics by purchasing a special reusable bag at Winn-Dixie. 

Friends of the Washington Parish Library has been selected by local Winn-Dixie store leadership as the benefiting non-profit in the Winn-Dixie Community Bag Program for the month of June!

The Winn-Dixie Community Bag Program is designed to give back to the local community with every reusable bag purchased. Every $2.99 reusable Community Bag sold supports a non-profit local to the store in which it was purchased. This program offers a way for shoppers to give back as part of the regular weekly routine.

Every month, at every Winn-Dixie location, a different local non-profit is selected to benefit from the sale of these special reusable Community Bags. Friends of the Washington Parish Library was selected as the June beneficiary by local store leadership at the store located at Washington Street. Friends of the Washington Parish Library will receive a $1 donation for every $2.99 reusable Community Bag purchased at this location in June.

“The Library deeply appreciates the support of the Friends of the Washington Parish Library, as well as the support we get from our community,” said Sonnet Ireland, Director of the Washington Parish Library. “Initiatives like the Winn-Dixie Community Bag Program really make a difference.”

Friends of the Washington Parish Library is a non-profit in Washington Parish, focused on actively promoting Library services and resources while sharing their love of books with the community. The Friends foster a positive relationship between the Library and the community, secure volunteers, and raise funds to support the Library. For more information about joining Friends of the Library or their activities, call 985-839-7806. Learn more about the Friends of the Washington Parish Library by visiting https://washingtonparishlibrary.info/friend-of-the-library.

For more information about the Community Bag Program, please visit seg.bags4mycause.com.