Washington Parish Election Results for December 10, 2022

With early and absentee reporting and all precincts reporting (with the exception of Constitutional Amendments), unofficial results reflect the following:

Washington Parish School Board, District 1

Keith R. Giles was elected with 60% of the vote to defeat Justin Brown

Giles received 344 votes and Brown received 233 votes

Turnout: 27.6%

Washington Parish School Board, District 7

David "Big Dave" Pettit was elected with 55% of the vote to defeat incumbent Lee Alan McCain II 

Pettit received 218 votes and McCain received 175 votes

Turnout: 20.8%     

Washington Parish School Board, District 8

Frankie Crosby, Sr. was elected with 59% of the vote to defeat Sarah Burris 

Crosby received 336 votes and Burris received 238 votes

Turnout: 28.5%   

Councilmen At Large, City of Bogalusa (2 to be elected)

Tamira Moss Smith and Penny Douglas were elected. 

Smith received 526 votes, Douglas received 473 votes, Dupont received 470 votes, and McGehee received 424 votes

Turnout: 14.2%

 Renewal of 1/3 of 1% S&U Tax was approved with 59% of the vote.

The renewal was for 10 years and dedicated solely to providing, maintaining, administering and operating services and facilities in the civil, juvenile and criminal justice system mandated by state statute to be funded by parish governments

Constitutional Amendments

Statewide, all three Constitutional Amendments appears to be headed for approval. Washington Parish approved all three by comfortable margins.

Constitutional Amendment No. 1 (Requires U.S. citizenship in order to register and vote in Louisiana 

Constitutional Amendment No. 2 (Requires Senate confirmation of gubernatorial appointed members of the State Civil Service Commission  

Constitutional Amendment No. 3 (Requires Senate confirmation of certain members of the State Police Commission

Obituary

Carolyn Knight Mixon

January 10, 1946 - December 8, 2022

One Teen Dead, Two Wounded in Bogalusa Shooting

A 15 year-old male died and two 14 year-old males were wounded Friday (December 9, 2022) night at approximately 9:40 PM in Bogalusa, Louisiana.

Bogalusa Police Department responded to the 800 Block of Warren St. in reference to shots being fired. It was determined that a large group of individuals were gathered for a birthday party, when shots rang out and police were called. Officers located one subject on the ground suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. Officers also located a second victim suffering from a gunshot wound to the upper leg. Both subjects were turned over to the B.F.D. and E.M.S. personnel upon their arrival. 

Officers then attempted to secure the scene and locate witnesses. There was still an extremely large crowd of people in the area. Officers learned that a third victim had been transported to the Emergency Room by a vehicle. 

At this time, one of the victims, a 15 year-old black male has succumbed to his injuries. One victim is still being treated in a local hospital (14 year-old black male) and the other victim (14 year-old black male) has been released. 

This is an ongoing investigation and Officers are working to solve this tragic incident. If you or someone you know has information that would help with this investigation, please call the Bogalusa Police Department @ 985-732-3611 or Crime Stoppers @ 504-482-1111.

Possible Severe Weather Coming!

Rain is back in our forecast, plus a strong cold front and associated showers and storms is expected to move through southeast Louisiana and southern Mississippi late Tuesday into early Wednesday. Potential impacts include damaging winds, large hail, isolated tornadoes, and intense rain leading to localized flooding.

Bogalusa Mayor-Elect Announces Transition Team

Bogalusa Mayor-Elect Tyrin Truong announced his transition team yesterday (December 9, 2022). See the announcement below.

“Today, I am announcing my transition team. This team comprises some of the best and brightest minds in our City with diverse backgrounds. They’re all passionate about improving Bogalusa and uniting our divisions. Together, we will produce my administration’s ”First 100 Days Plan”, focused on charting a better path forward. I’m honored and grateful to each of them for joining the team! 

-Attorney Kelvin May has practiced law since 2007 and is active in the community through youth sports coaching and philanthropy. 

-Representative Malinda White has represented District 75 since 2015. 

-Councilman Drummond has served on the Bogalusa City Council since 2010. 

-Ms. Tonyah Jefferson currently serves as the Principal of Byrd Avenue Primary School. 

-District Attorney Warren Montgomery has served the 22nd Judicial District since 2014. 

-Mrs. Deloris Walker currently serves as Director of Finance at Bogalusa City Schools. 

We will be revealing the Administration soon, stay tuned!”

Obituary

Charles Dewayne Harris

August 24, 1963 - December 8, 2022

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Slidell Man Sentenced to 10 Years on Obstruction of Justice Charge Related to a Murder in Pearl River

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on December 9, 2022, Jawaun Jaylin Gaines, age 20 and of Slidell, pled and was sentenced by District Judge Alan Zaunbrecher to 10 years in prison for obstruction of justice by tampering with evidence in a murder investigation.

On May 21, 2021, close to midnight, a shooting occurred at a party on Mike Talley Road in Pearl River. This shooting claimed the life of 20-year-old Nicholas Livingston.

Click here for our previous related story

Jawaun Gaines removed the murder weapon from the scene and attempted to persuade another witness to testify falsely. Both of those acts constitute obstruction of justice.

At the sentencing hearing, in a packed courtroom, the State, represented by Assistant District Attorney Amanda Gritten, presented the Court with a Motion for Maximum Sentence supported by testimony from the lead detective, a jail call that had been made by the defendant and presented the Court with multiple emails from members of the community advocating for justice for Nick.

Additionally, Nick’s mother, father and step-mother gave compelling “victim impact” statements in Court. Nick’s mother Jolyn said, “You may not have pulled the trigger, but you are no different than your friend who did. Every time your cell door slams shut, may it be a reminder to you of what you were a part of.” After the proceedings concluded, Karen and Jason, the father and step-mother of Nick said on their social media: “We got a small victory today in the pursuit of justice for Nick.”

This murder is still being prosecuted and two more defendants have trials pending, therefore further details on the incident will not be included here.

Slidell Man Found Guilty of Sexual Battery Against Victim Under Age Thirteen

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Thursday (December 8, 2022), a St. Tammany Parish jury unanimously found Nelson Joel Torres, age 39 and of Slidell, guilty as charged of sexual battery of a child under the age of thirteen. District Judge William Burris presided over the case. Torres faces between 25-99 years in prison when he is sentenced on December 19, 2022.

On October 25, 2019 the Slidell Police Department received a complaint from the victim’s aunt/guardian. She stated that she’d left her niece and 1 other young child with the defendant, (her live-in boyfriend), while she worked. She stated that when she arrived home she found her niece texting the defendant via a tablet computer. She also saw blood on the victim’s clothes and body. The defendant had left the home.

The victim told police, through a translator, that while she was cleaning the kitchen, the defendant “picked [her] up and carried [her] into the bedroom” and sexually assaulted her. The victim was taken to Children’s Hospital in New Orleans for a medical exam and DNA was collected from her body and clothing. The victim turned over her tablet to police.

The defendant returned home and was taken into custody. When questioned, he chose to remain silent. During the execution of a search warrant, crime scene technicians collected bloodied laundry belonging to the victim and bedding from the room where the abuse reportedly took place.

Examination of the victim’s tablet revealed many messages from defendant’s phone to the victim’s device including instructions from the defendant to "delete messages" and "erase everything." The victim testified that the defendant also sent her “videos of people doing intimate things.”

The defendant testified as well, denying that he was even at home that morning and that the DNA found on the bedding was there because the kids were “always in that bed.” He said the messaging was between him and his partner, who also used the tablet. He didn’t have a response as to why the DNA, consistent with his, was found on the victim’s body and underwear.

A DNA expert testified that the probability that the DNA was from a random male person outside of the defendant’s family line, would be 1 in an amount double the population of the world.

Assistant District Attorney Iain Dover wants to thank the jury. “We want to make sure that when children come forward, they are heard, believed and that going forward they will be protected. And that’s what this jury has done.”

Assistant District Attorneys Iain Dover and Elizabeth Authement prosecuted the case.

Lacombe Man Sentenced for an Automobile-Bicycle Accident Resulting in Death

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on December 9, 2022, Andre J. Damiens, age 31 and of Lacombe, was sentenced by District Judge Ellen Creel on charges of vehicular homicide and hit and run driving resulting in death

Click here for our previous related story.

In July of 2021, Louisiana State Police responded to a call that a deceased male was lying on the shoulder at US 190 in Lacombe. The body was identified and a heavily damaged Huffy bicycle was found. A witness told police that a vehicle had drifted to the right onto the shoulder and hit the rear tire of a bicycle with its front bumper, causing the victim to become airborne. The body struck the hood, windshield and roof of the vehicle. Investigators determined that the bicycle traveled approximately 149 feet and the victim traveled approximately 250 feet.

Witnesses had taken down the license number of the fleeing vehicle which led officers to the vehicle and the defendant. The vehicle had damage consistent with being involved in the crash. The defendant had just reported the accident to police, telling dispatch that he’d hit a pole. Officers interviewed him and detected an odor of alcohol on his breath and testing confirmed his impairment.

The defendant addressed the Judge before sentencing and said that “not a day goes by that I don’t pray for [them;] I am ready to pay back the debt that I owe society.”

The victim’s family was out of state and could not be present in court but their impact statements were read aloud. They said that the victim “was a practicing Christian and was shining his light and witnessing to those around him” and they graciously told the defendant, “I forgive you, as I know it's what he would have wanted.” And, “I pray you are able to make something of your life when you are released from prison and have a purpose moving forward.”

Judge Creel, before announcing the sentence, told the defendant that those family members were more generous than she would have been had it been her family member, but that she was taking their statements into consideration. She then sentenced the defendant to 10 years in prison, seven of which were suspended and three to be served without benefit of probation, parole, and suspension of sentence. She also ordered three additional years of probation, a scram device and attendance at AA meetings until she was satisfied.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jason Cuccia.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Obituary

Mildred S. Crockett

August 26, 1927 - December 6, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 5-7, 2022

Brandon Ishee (age 24 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

Danny Woodward (age 43 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Michael Wilson (age 49 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Disturbing the Peace/Drunkenness, Intentional Littering, Attempted Criminal Damage to Property, and Threatening a Public Official by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Devon Cotton (age 33 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Heather Miller (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Ritchie Martin (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Entry/Remain on Premises After Being Forbidden, Disturbing the Peace/Loud & Abusive Language, and Resisting an Officer by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

Washington Parish Animal Shelter's Secret Santa Program

The Washington Parish Animal Shelter has announced their Secret Santa Program for their wonderful shelter pups! Here are a few things you need to know:

*  To become a Secret Santa, please message the shelter with the name of the pup you would like to be Santa for. (985)-205-2023

*  You can drop off your donated items to your pup during our business hours. Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday from 10am- 4pm. 

Here are some things the pups would love: collars, leashes, enrichment items, beds (any shapes, sizes, colors), sheets, toys (hard or soft, but please no raw hides. They are a major choking hazard),  treats (hard bones or soft chewy ones), dry dog food (Purina), wet dog food (any brand), towels, and any other type of bedding (please not human made electric blankets as they are not waterproof).

From the folks at the Animal Shelter: “As always, we are so greatly appreciative to all who donate and participate in our programs for our pups. Happy Holidays and we look forward to seeing all our Santa's.”

Learn more and be sure to "Like" their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/Washingtonparishanimalshelter/

Washington Parish Native Graduates From FBI National Academy

The Covington Police Department has announced the graduation of Lieutenant Bret Miller from the FBI National Academy Session 284. 

Lieutenant Miller has spent the last 10 weeks in Quantico, Virginia, at the FBI Training Center, where law, behavioral science, forensic science, the terrorist mindset, communication, health and fitness, and leadership development are covered. 

Bret is a native of Washington Parish, the son of Denver Miller and grandson of Carruth and Junie Belle Leggett Miller. After Denver's death, Bret was raised by David and Jo Ann in Mt. Hermon where he graduated from High School. After serving his country in the U.S. Army, Bret was employed with the Covington Police Department. He resides in Abita Springs with his family, wife Nancy and their three children.

Obituary

Robert Lee Bickham

September 6, 1949 - December 2, 2022

AG Landry Warns of Child Products Recently Recalled

As part of his efforts to make Louisiana a safer state for all citizens, Attorney General Jeff Landry is warning Louisiana parents and guardians to take note of several child products that have been recently recalled.

Attorney General Landry listed the following recalled products:

• Shake Look Touch Books by Scholastic
• Kidoozie Play Tents and Playhouses by Epoch Everlasting Play
• Toy Box with Bins by Monti Kids
• Silicone Baby Toy Bear Activity Toys by Konges Sløjd Denmark A/S
• First Choice Glass Baby Bottles by NUK (sold exclusively on Amazon.com)
• Ride-On Toys by Huffy Corporation Children’s Outdoor Kitchens by Big Game Hunters (imported by DOM Sports and sold exclusively at Amazon.com)
• Kidoozie Activity Desk Toys by Epoch Everlasting Play
• Children’s Hooded Sweatshirts with Drawstrings by Hard Rock
• MamaRoo and RockaRoo Infant Swings and Rockers by 4moms
• Children’s HearMuffs by Hearing Lab Technology/Lucid Audio
• Children’s Sandals by Kolan (sold exclusively on Amazon.com)
• Infant Bath Seats by Yuboloo (sold exclusively on Amazon.com)
• RIDGE Jogging Strollers by UPPAbaby
• Miffy First Lights by Mr Maria
• Cityscape Travel Jogger Strollers by Baby Trend
• Flynn Twin Full Bunk Beds With Ladder by Hillsdale Furniture(sold only at Value City Furniture and American Signature Furniture Stores)
• Toddleroo Rotating Cabinet Latches by North States Industries
• Children’s Hairclips by BE Jewel Accessories
• Ladders Sold With Bunk Bed and Hutch Sets by Canyon Furniture Company (sold exclusively at Rooms To Go)

For more information on these recalled products (including pictures and descriptions) and remedies for their consumers, view the Fall 2022 Safety Box at agjefflandry.com/safetybox.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Man Caught Trying to Steal STPSO Hummer Outside of Jail – Dumbest Criminal Award?

Tuesday (December 6, 2022) morning two employees with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Maintenance Department were walking around the back of the jail when they observed a man climb into the driver’s seat of a marked STPSO Hummer, which was parked behind the jail. 

When the two employees approached the man and asked what he was doing, he told them he was a lieutenant with the STPSO Narcotics Division, and he was taking the hummer to be serviced.   

Knowing this information to be false, the STPSO employees alerted a nearby supervisor with the STPSO Operations Division who took the man, 52 year-old Pete Dunhurst of Covington, into custody and called for a patrol deputy to make a report.

The patrol deputy who responded knew Dunhurst, having arrested the man last month when he was caught breaking into a residence near Covington. He claimed to be a lieutenant with the STPSO Narcotics Division during that incident as well.  

STPSO reports that Dunhurst is not employed and has never been employed with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office or any law enforcement agency.

To add to his problems, Dunhurst was found to be in possession of a pistol with an obliterated serial number. Dunhurst was arrested and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center on the charges of Vehicle Burglary, Impersonating a Law Enforcement Officer, and Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number.  

Obituary

Mary Nell Jacobs - Mingo

September 17, 1932 - December 3, 2022

Obituary

Johnny Ray Fields

January 11, 1954 - November 22, 2022

Suspect Sought in Fluker Murder

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office Chief Jimmy Travis reports this morning (December 7, 2022) that Jywan Jones of Independence remains at large and wanted for a murder that occurred on November 22, 2022 in Fluker. 

This is apparently related to a previous story we reported (click here to read); however, there are inconsistencies regarding the date the murder occurred and an issue regarding custody of the suspect. We are working to clarify the inconsistencies.

Chief Travis asks anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Jones, to call the Sheriff's Office at 985-345-6150, OR if you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1.800.554.5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

15 Year-Old Missing Kentwood Girl

Sue Ann Williams, age 15 and of Kentwood, was last seen leaving Sumner High School around 9:00 a.m. on December 3, 2022. Sue Ann is a white female, 5'2 tall and approximately 110 pounds with brown hair and brown eyes. 

Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office's Chief Travis advises this morning (December 7, 2022) that Sue Ann is still missing and asks the public's assistance in locating her. 

Chief Travis asks anyone with information regarding the whereabouts of Williams, to call the Sheriff's Office at 985-345-6150, OR if you wish to remain anonymous, please call Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s anonymous tip line at 1.800.554.5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip!

Two From Covington Die in Crash Near Loranger

Tuesday (December 6, 2022) shortly after 4:00 p.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a single vehicle fatal crash on LA Hwy 40 near LA Hwy 445 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the lives of 67-year-old John Bitter and 64-year-old Janice Pellegrin, both of Covington.

The initial investigation revealed the crash occurred as the driver, John Bitter, was eastbound on LA Hwy 40 in a 2011 Nissan Sentra. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan crossed the center-line and exited the roadway. After leaving the roadway, the Nissan impacted a tree.

Despite both occupants being properly restrained, they both sustained fatal injuries as a result of the crash. Bitter was pronounced deceased on the scene. Pellegrin was transported to a local hospital where she was later pronounced deceased. Impairment is unknown, but a standard toxicology sample was obtained from the driver for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Kentwood Man ID'd as Suspect in Abita-area Homicide

St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office detectives have obtained a warrant for the arrest of 27 year-old Tyrus Brock of Kentwood in connection with the May 2, 2022 homicide which occurred on Pansy Street in the Abita Nursery Subdivision. Click here for the original story

Brock is currently being held in the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on unrelated charges. A hold has been placed on him by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Once he fulfills his requirements in Tangipahoa Parish, Brock will be transported to the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center, where he will be booked on one count of Second-degree Murder.

As reported previously, STPSO deputies were dispatched to the area of Pansy and Progress Streets on May 2, 2022 in reference to gunshots being heard. Responding deputies located a deceased black male, with what appeared to be gunshot wounds, inside a vehicle on Pansy Street. The St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office identified the victim as Kawon Moore.

As a result of their investigation, STPSO detectives have identified Brock as one of the individuals responsible in Moore’s death. The case is still being actively investigated and additional arrests may come at a later time.

“This arrest brings our homicide clearance rate for 2022 to 100 percent,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “This is a testament to the hard work and dedication shown by the detectives in our Major Crimes Unit.  We truly have the best of the best working to keep the citizens of St. Tammany safe.”

Obituary

Naomi "Ms. Lou" Kemp

November 3, 1933 - December 5, 2022

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Bogalusa City Council Meeting of December 6, 2022

Maintaining order was difficult during the Bogalusa Council meeting Tuesday (December 6, 2022) evening, especially following the introduction of a Resolution "supporting the investigation regarding the Eric Nelson and the Bogalusa Police Department incident December 2021". Bogalusa Police Officers escorted some from the courtroom/council chambers and Mayor Wendy Perrette closed the door behind them. Council President Kenny Kellis effectively communicated and acted to restore order and proceed with the Council's business.  Click here and Click here for related articles and background and see the video beginning at 23:30.

The Council did address a full Agenda and heard from residents regarding other issues. More on the meeting will be provided later.

Bogalusa Council 12062022.wmv from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day

Pearl Harbor Remembrance Day is observed annually in the United States on December 7, to remember and honor the 2,403 Americans who were killed in the Japanese surprise attack on Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on December 7, 1941, which led to the United States declaring war on Japan the next day and thus entering World War II.

WPSS: EIS Parapro Assessment is December 15th

WPSS Hiring School Food Service Worker

Obituary

Elizabeth "Ann" Hopkins

January 9, 1948 - December 2, 2022

Obituary

Aaron Jerry Lee Cox

January 1, 1982 - December 3, 2022

Obituary

Rufus Warren, Jr.

May 18, 1942 - November 28, 2022

Franklinton's Boil Water Advisory Lifted

Franklinton's Mayor Gregory Route has issued the following Press Release:

The BOIL WATER advisory has been lifted for the Town of Franklinton. We apologize for the inconvenience this may have caused and appreciate your patience while we resolved the issues.

Obituary

Rebecca Oden Beebe

June 30, 1936 - December 5, 2022

Obituary

Carolyn Munn Smotherman

June 6, 1943 - December 4, 2022

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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Santa Coming to Franklinton Town Hall on Dec. 16th

S

Obituary

Jeanette Singleton McGehee

December 18, 1930 - December 3, 2022

Obituary

Wayne Bryant

September 21, 1961 - December 4, 2022

Obituary

Mattie Odeal Mizell Sharp

July 25, 1926 - December 4, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 4, 2022

Gary Spears (age 48 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Careless Operation, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Driving Under Suspension, Failure to Change/Secure Registration, No MVI, No License Plate, Obstruction of Justice/Evidence Tampering, and Intentional Littering by Wildlife and Fisheries. Bond set at $7500.00.

Theresa Prizie (age 57 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $8500.00.

Fields Hartzog (age 46 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Second Degree Battery and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $7500.00.

Jyren Roberts (age 21 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs/Tetrahydrocannabinols or Synthetic Cannabinoids and Possession of CDS With Weapon Present by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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Obituary

William L. Bedwell

February 3, 1946 - December 1, 2022

Obituary

Herbert Ray Brooks, Sr.

February 18, 1947 - December 3, 2022

Obituary

Kenneth Dale Proffitt

April 2, 1942 - December 2, 2022

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for December 2-3, 2022

Zachary Netherland (age 25 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation and Parole Hold by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Keegan Causey (age 30 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Probation Violation by Probation and Parole. No bond set at this time.

Roderick Taylor (age 52 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated (4th Offense), Improper Lane Usage, Proper Equipment Required, Careless Operation, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $100000.00.

Jason Youngblood (age 42 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Bike Headlight and Bench Warrant/Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $400.00 bond.

Alvin Chandler (age 66 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Aggravated Assault with a Firearm and Criminal Trespass by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Man Arrested for Covington Murders Transferred After Escape Attempt

 This afternoon (December 3, 2022), The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's advised that 49 year-old Antonio Tyson, who was booked into the St. Tammany Parish Jail earlier this week by Covington Police, has been transferred to the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola after a failed escape attempt.

Tyson was in St. Tammany Parish Jail accused of murdering and burning the bodies of 71 year-old retired Priest Otis Young and 73 year-old Ruth Prats. Tyson had been arrested November 28, 2022 and charged with First Degree Murder (2 counts), Second Degree Kidnapping (2 counts), Obstruction of Justice (2 counts), Resisting an an Officer, and Illegal Possession of Stolen Things.

Tyson was rebooked on one count of Attempted Escape after he damaged jail property in his attempt to escape from the St. Tammany Parish Jail. Determined to be a flight risk, Tyson was transferred to Angola Saturday (December 3, 2022) morning on an emergency return order.  He was transported without incident.

David Burns (age 72) was arrested for one count of Principle to Attempted Escape after it was learned he assisted Tyson in his escape attempt.  

Franklinton Under Boil Water Advisory - Again

At 3:47 PM today (December 3, 2022), we received a press release from Franklinton Mayor Gregory Route stating the following:

"Out of an abundance of caution the Town of Franklinton will be doing a system wide Boil Water Advisory due to power failure at Mason St. Well. We apologize for the inconvenience this may cause and are working to resolve the issues quickly."

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

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Former STPSO Employee Arrested for Financial Crimes

A former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office employee was arrested today (December 2, 2022) in connection with a fraudulent check investigation.

Carri Artigue, a former employee in the STPSO Occupational Licensing Department, was arrested Friday for one count each of Bank Fraud, Monetary Instrument Abuse and Misdemeanor Money Laundering.  She will be booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.   

Artigue has been employed with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office since 2009, and her crimes were in no way connected to her employment with the agency and did not involve Sheriff’s Office funds.

“I hold all of our employees to the highest standard. When a public servant breaks the law, that individual must face the consequences,” said Sheriff Randy Smith said. 

Obituary

Sharon "Kaye" Moran Callender

January 7, 1952 - December 1, 2022

Obituary

Fredrick "Fred" M. Kirby

December 5, 1952 - November 30, 2022

Obituary

Mary Louise Owens

June 7, 1938 - December 1, 2022    

Storehouse Church Announces Free Community Event

Storehouse Church, located at 950 Ellis Street in Franklinton, has announced a FREE Community Event featuring Live Bluegrass Christmas Music, a Christmas Light Display, hot chocolate, cookie decorating, ornament making, and Country Santa telling the story of Jesus' Birth, photo ops, and more. 

Check it out on Saturday, December 17, 2022 from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM.

Obituary

Rhonda Lee Taylor

August 8, 1979 - November 28, 2022

Franklinton Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Assault on Washington Parish Deputy and Other Charges

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on November 17, 2022, Zarius J. Brown, age 35 and from Franklinton, Louisiana, pleaded guilty as charged before Judge Raymond Childress, to aggravated assault on a peace officer with a motor vehicle, illegal possession of stolen things and aggravated criminal damage to property. He was sentenced to a total of 15 years in prison, without the benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence.

In July of 2018, the Franklinton Police Department received a call from the brother of the victim. He was following a dump truck loaded with a bob cat, both of which had been reported stolen to the New Orleans Police. He tracked down the equipment because they were equipped with a tracking device.

A Washington Parish Sheriff’s Deputy located the truck in Franklinton. He activated his lights and siren to pull the driver over, but the defendant refused to stop. When he finally did stop, the officer exited his unit to approach. The defendant then put the truck in reverse and rammed into the officer’s unit causing the vehicle to slide off of the roadway and pinning the officer between the police unit and the dirt embankment. Fearing for his life, the deputy fired multiple shots at the truck. The defendant then took off on foot and ran into a wooded area. A dog tracking team was called to the scene and the defendant was found nearby and arrested. He had the key to the stolen vehicle in his pants pocket.

Click here for previous related stories

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Luke Lancaster.

Texas Man Indicted for Rape of Victim Under the Age 13

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, a St. Tammany Parish grand jury indicted Ahmad Hassan Smith, age 31 and of Texas on 1 Count of Aggravated Rape of a victim under the age 13.

Smith is accused of sexually abusing the victim from 2008 to 2010 in Slidell. The Defendant fled in 2010 and was not located until he was pulled over in New Orleans in a stolen car in 2022.

Assistant District Attorney Ysonde Boland presented the case to the grand jury.

Two Indicted in St. Tammany Murder of Jon McIntyre

District Attorney Warren Montgomery reports that on Wednesday, November 30, 2022, a St. Tammany Parish grand jury returned an indictment against Dain Robert McCann, age 25 and of Abita Springs, for the August 29, 2022 Second-Degree Murder of Jon Paul McIntyre and Obstruction of Justice. The grand jury also returned an indictment in the same case against Jacob Sloan, age 27 and of Abita Springs, for Obstruction of Justice and Accessory after the Fact to Second-Degree Murder.

Previous reporting (click here to read) indicated that shortly before midnight, St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 73000 block of Tee Street near Talisheek after a neighbor reported hearing gunshots and observed a man who appeared to be deceased outside a neighboring residence. The neighbor also reported seeing a vehicle fleeing the area. Responding deputies located the body of the male victim, later identified as Jon McIntyre, lying by the front door of the residence.

Deputies had interactions with McCann and Sloan earlier in the day in connection with an ongoing argument between the McIntyre and one of the men. STPSO deputies located McCann and Sloan and they were taken into custody without incident. Evidence from the scene and statements provided during the investigation identified McCann as the shooter and that Sloan had provided assistance by bringing McCann to and from the location.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for November 30 - December 1, 2022

Timothy Corkern (age 41 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to Infirm and Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $30000.00.

Angelia Ezell (age 60 with Carriere, Ms. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Second Degree Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $5000.00 bond.

Christopher Williams (age 30 with Tylertown, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Marijuana (3rd Offense) and Improper Equipment by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $4000.00.

Brenda Snowden (age 61 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS in Presence of Juvenile (2 counts) and Possession of Schedule III Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on $3500.00 bond.

Nikki Hall (age 27 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of No Insurance, Smoking in Motor Vehicle Prohibited (2 counts), Contempt of Court and Failure to Appear by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2550.00.

Jermaine Barnes (age 31 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Pay Fine, Contempt of Court (3 counts), Following Too Close, Driving Under Suspension, and No Insurance by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $26370.00.

Kenneth Reed (age 65 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft Less Than 1000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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Obituary

Luther Kevin Whatley

November 24, 1966 - December 1, 2022

Obituary

Cheryl Ann "Coonie" Coon

April 13, 1966 - November 29, 2022

Fugitive Sought, 2 Arrested After Escape in McComb

The Pike County MS Sheriff's Office reports the arrests of two in connection with the escape of Javier Marsiyia Kidd on Monday (November 28, 2022). Kidd jumped out of the Pike County Sheriff's Office transport van after being picked up at the McComb Police Department. 

On Tuesday (November 29, 2022) morning, Deputies arrested Xavier Ramos (age 19 and of McComb) and Ramos was charged with Accessory After the Fact of a Felony with Intent to Aid an Inmate with Escape or to Avoid Arrest. Later that evening, Fransheka Mark (age 27 and of McComb) was arrested on a warrant charging her with Accessory After the Fact of a Felony with Intent to Aid an Inmate with Escape or to Avoid Arrest. Bond remain in the Pike County Jail with bond set at $40,000.00 for each. 

The Pike County Sheriff’s Office is currently working to locate Javier Kidd and asking anyone with any information to call Central Dispatch at 601-783-2323, The Pike County Sheriff’s Office at 601-783-6767, Pike County Crime Stoppers at 601-869-7141, or leave a tip on the Crime Stoppers of South Central Mississippi Facebook page.

We also want to remind those individuals that attempt to aid and abet a fugitive from the law is a serious offense and you will be charged accordingly.

All suspects are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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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