Pedestrian Killed in Secondary Crash Near Amite

On Sunday (October 6, 2024), at approximately 6:45 a.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L began investigating a fatal crash involving a pedestrian on Interstate 55 near LA Hwy 16 in Tangipahoa Parish. The crash claimed the life of 29-year-old Cierra Porche of Hammond.

The initial investigation showed that two separate crashes occurred in the same general location along Interstate 55 northbound, only minutes apart. The first crash involved a 2007 Saturn Vue, driven by Porche. The Saturn was traveling northbound in the left lane. Simultaneously, a 2022 Ford Edge was traveling northbound in the right lane. Preliminary findings indicate the Saturn crossed into the right lane and struck the rear left side of the Ford. As a result, the Ford came to rest in the median, while the Saturn stopped in the right northbound lane’s ditch.

Following the initial crash and before emergency personnel arrived, Porche exited her vehicle and walked from the right side of the roadway to the median. After leaving the median, Porche was walking into the left lane of Interstate 55 when a 2022 GMC 2500, which was traveling northbound in the left lane, struck Porche.

Porche sustained fatal injuries as a result of the second crash and was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the GMC was properly restrained and uninjured. Impairment is not suspected on the part of the GMC driver who provided a breath sample of .000g%. A routine toxicology sample was obtained from Porche for analysis as part of the ongoing investigation.

Troopers urge pedestrians to exercise caution when walking near roadways. Wearing reflective materials, avoiding distractions, and keeping a safe distance from traffic lanes while facing oncoming vehicles can help prevent pedestrian-related crashes. Motorists should also stay alert when approaching disabled vehicles or pedestrians on the roadside. If you witness any hazardous situations, please dial *LSP (577) to report it to the Louisiana State Police.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 3-6, 2024

Note: Some bookings may have been omitted for October 3-5, 2024 due to our error.

Nicholas Little (age 46 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Protective Order Violation (2 counts). Released on $3500.00 bond.

Delaris Jenkins (age 34 with Franklinton, La. adress) was booked on the charges of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, Driving Under Suspension, Switched MVI, and License Plate Light Required by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Barbra Thompson (age 73 with Slidell, La. address) was booked on the charges of Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute and Possession of Marijuana by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Lodansin McClain (age 31 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Access Device Fraud, Theft Less Than 1000 (2 counts), Failure to Honor Written Promise (2 counts), Contempt of Court, Attempted Theft by Shoplifting, and Introduction of Contraband to Correctional Facility by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Kristen Barber (age 44 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Expired License Plate, No Drivers License, and No Proof of Insurance by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

The photo of persons pictured were released by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with their updated policy, guided by legal and ethical considerations. 

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Hurricane Milton is appears to be no threat to our area but sure is to Florida. Milton is rapidly strengthening and is currently located about 745 miles WSW of Tampa, Florida moving ESE at 8 MPH with 125 MPH maximum sustained winds. Milton is a category 3 hurricane. Further strengthening is expected, and Milton is forecast to become an extremely dangerous category 4 hurricane later today and maintain that intensity for the next couple of days.  An eastward to east-southeastward motion is forecast through tonight, followed by a turn toward the east and northeast on Tuesday and Wednesday.  On the forecast track, Milton is forecast to approach the west coast of the Florida Peninsula by Wednesday.

Disturbance 2. Hurricane Kirk is no threat to our area. Kirk is way out in the Atlantic and moving toward Europe with 75 MPH maximum sustained winds. Although gradual weakening is expected, Kirk is forecast tobecome a large and strong extratropical low during the next couple of days.

Disturbance 3. Hurricane Leslie is also not a threat to our area. Leslie is way out in the Atlantic packing 90 MPH maximum sustained winds. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Gradual weakening is forecast to commence soon and continue through the week.

Disturbance 4. Far Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa in a few days.  Afterward, environmental conditions appear marginally favorable for some slow development of this system while it moves westward or west-northwestward across the eastern tropical Atlantic. The system is expected to move near or over the Cabo Verde Islands on Thursday or early Friday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 90. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 61. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 83. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 59. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 85. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Wednesday Night   Clear, with a low around 61. North wind around 5 mph.

Frankie Crosby, Sr. Found Deceased

This morning (Sunday, October 6, 2024), the Franklinton Police Department was notified of a possible
death at 1424 Parker St. in Franklinton. Upon arrival, officers discovered the body of 67 year-old Frankie Lee Crosby, Sr. inside his vehicle.

The Franklinton Police Department, in conjunction with the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab and LSP Detectives, are currently investigating the case.

No manner of death has been determined at this time.

Crosby was a well-known personality in Franklinton. He served on the Washington Parish School Board and was also a candidate for Alderman in the upcoming election.

More information will be provided when available.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Milton is not likely an immediate threat to our area but poses a serious threat to our neighbors east of us. Milton is located about 860 miles west-southwest of Tampa moving east at 5 MPH with maximum sustained winds of 60 MPH. An eastward to east-northeastward motion is forecast during the next couple of days, followed by a faster northeastward motion.  On the forecast track, Milton is forecast to move across the Gulf of Mexico and approach the west coast of the Florida Peninsula by midweek.

Disturbance 2. Hurricane Kirk  is no threat to our area but is a major hurricane located way out in the open waters of the Atlantic. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Although weakening is expected through midweek, Kirk will remain a large hurricane for the next day or so before transitioning to an extratropical cyclone by early Tuesday.

Disturbance 3. Hurricane Leslie is no threat to our area, located way out in the Atlantic. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Weakening is forecast to begin on Monday and continue through midweek.

Disturbance 4. Far Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa in a few days.  Some development of this system is possible thereafter while it moves westward or west-northwestward across the eastern tropical Atlantic.  The system is expected to move near or over the Cabo Verde Islands on Wednesday and Thursday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 88. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 67. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 89. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday Night   Clear, with a low around 61. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 82. North wind around 10 mph.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 59. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

MISSING CHILD ALERT

The Washington Parish Sheriff's Office has advised that a child (pictured here) is missing. He was last seen this morning (Sunday, October 6, 2024) at 5:00 AM at home near 52231 LA-10 about 1 mile west of intersection of LA-62 and LA-10 at Sheridan. He was wearing  grey shorts and grey t-shirt.

The child is non-verbal and may have wandered away from home.

Deputies are currently searching surrounding area. If found or you have information about child’s whereabouts, please call 911 immediately. 

Bogalusa Man Dies in St. Tammany Crash

On Thursday (October 3, 2024), at approximately 10:00 p.m., Troopers with Louisiana State Police Troop L were notified of a two-vehicle crash on LA Hwy 21 near Cleland Street in St. Tammany Parish. The crash ultimately claimed the life of 35-year-old Glenn Wells of Bogalusa.

The preliminary investigation revealed that Wells was driving a 2006 Nissan Sentra northbound on LA Hwy 21, while a 2015 GMC Canyon was traveling southbound. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan crossed the centerline and collided head-on with the GMC.

Wells, who was unrestrained, was pronounced deceased at the scene. The driver of the GMC was properly restrained, sustained moderate injuries, and was transported to a local hospital. As part of the ongoing investigation, routine toxicology samples were obtained from both drivers for analysis.

While not all crashes are survivable, properly wearing seat belts can significantly improve your chances of survival and reduce injury severity. Additionally, impaired and distracted driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state. Troopers urge motorists to never drive under the influence and to remain attentive behind the wheel. Following these simple precautions and adhering to all traffic laws can greatly enhance road safety.

Two Murder Cases Under Investigation in Tangipahoa Parish

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) was called to investigate two different homicides on Friday (October 4, 2024). At this time, one has resulted in an arrest while the other is ongoing.

Case 1. Just before 9:30 p.m., TPSO was called to the 12000 block of Oak Hill Road in Kentwood for reports of a fight. Upon arrival, deputies located 38-year-old Renaldo Brumfield shot multiple times. He did not survive. Immediately, 41-year-old Gerald Harvey (pictured right) was identified as the suspect in the case. By 11:30 p.m., Harvey was in custody on 2nd Degree Murder charges.

Case 2. Earlier in the day, just before 9 a.m. the Independence Police Department (IPD) was called to an apartment complex on 1st Street for a report of an unresponsive person. Officers arrived at one of the duplex units to discover a female victim dead from what appeared to be a gunshot wound. The IPD then requested TPSO to partner with them on the investigation. This victim has been identified as 18-year-old Le'Airrah Dupard. At this time, detectives believe the victim was standing near the window of her home when a bullet entered through the window. It is not believed that she was the intended target. TPSO and IPD are actively working this investigation but could use the public’s help. Anyone with information about this crime and/or those responsible can contact the Criminal Investigations Office at 985-902-2008. If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

Mandeville-area Man Arrested for Animal Cruelty (11 counts)

Antino McKendell, age 52 and of the Mandeville-area, was arrested Friday (October 4, 2024) morning on animal cruelty charges after eleven emaciated dogs were located at his residence.

A patrol deputy with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s 2nd District was at a neighboring residence on an unrelated call when he observed several dogs in very poor condition in the yard of a residence in the 27000 block of Jackson Street near Mandeville. The deputy relocated to that residence, and there he found eleven dogs, who all appeared to be severely emaciated, unfed and in very poor condition.

McKendell, the owner of those dogs, was arrested for 11 counts of Cruelty to Animals. A twelfth dog was also located at the residence. It appeared to be neglected but not in as severe condition as the others. Its owner was issued a citation for Cruelty to Animals.

All of the dogs were turned over to St. Tammany Parish Animal Control.

Obituary

Sandra Nell Wicker

November 10, 1941 - October 4, 2024

Obituary

David Lee Magee

August 7, 1981 - September 21, 2024

Obituary

Mary Bell Hart

September 14, 1941 - September 22, 2024

Obituary

Zenell "Nell" Raborn Ott

January 26, 1931 - October 4, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

See Kirk and Leslie below

Disturbance 1. Gulf of Mexico (AL92): A broad area of low pressure is located over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico and is gradually becoming better organized.  Development of this system is expected, and a tropical depression or storm is likely to form later today or on Sunday while it moves slowly eastward over the southwestern Gulf of Mexico.  By early next week, the system is forecast to move faster eastward or northeastward across the central and eastern Gulf of Mexico where additional strengthening is likely.  Formation chance through 48 hours...high...70 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...90 percent.

Disturbance 2. Hurricane Kirk is no threat to our area and is way out there in the Atlantic and moving NNW at 13 MPH toward Europe. A turn to the north is expected today, followed by a faster northeastward motion on Sunday and Monday. Kirk remains a powerful storm with 125 MPH maximum sustained winds. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 3. Hurricane Leslie is not likely a threat to our as it moves WNW across the eastern Atlantic. A gradual weakening trend is forecast to begin on Sunday. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 4. Far Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa on Monday or Tuesday.  Some development of this system is possible thereafter while it moves westward or west-northwestward across the eastern tropical Atlantic.  The system is expected to move near or over the Cabo Verde Islands on Wednesday and Thursday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Partly sunny, with a high near 86. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Mostly cloudy, then gradually becoming mostly clear, with a low around 68. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 88. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 66. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Monday   Sunny, with a high near 88. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Monday Night   Clear, with a low around 59. North wind around 10 mph.

STPSO Arrests Couple: Gun & Drugs Discovered in Repossessed Car

A New Orleans-area couple, 32-year-old Rashad Davalie and 32-year-old Charlesnisha Johnson, were arrested Wednesday (October 2, 2024) after drugs and a firearm were located in their repossessed vehicle that a Slidell based repossession company had repossessed on the morning of October 1, 2024. 

Detectives with the Narcotics Unit obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and located more than 9 pounds of marijuana, 18 grams of psilocybin mushrooms, packaging materials for street level drug distribution and a semi-automatic handgun inside. A warrant was issued for the arrest of Davalie after it was learned he had made several attempts to retrieve his “personal belongings” from the vehicle after it arrived at the Slidell storage yard.

On Wednesday (October 2, 2024), detectives were at the storage yard following up on their investigation, when Davalie and Johnson showed up to retrieve their belongs from the car. Both Davalie and Johnson were taken into custody without incident.

A search of the vehicle the couple arrived in was conducted, and detectives discovered additional marijuana and seven Ecstasy pills containing methamphetamine.

As a result of the investigation, Davalie and Johnson were booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.

“I want to thank the employees at the storage yard who contacted us when they observed something suspicious,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “We appreciate the residents and business owners who work together with law enforcement to help keep St. Tammany safe.”

WPSS Hiring School Bus Drivers!

Do you love working with children and want to make a positive impact on your community? Join our team as a school bus driver! We're looking for responsible, dedicated individuals to help safely transport our students to and from school each day.

Help shape the future by driving the next generation! Apply today at wpsb.org/careers

Reception at Riverside Medical Center Introduces New Physicians

Message from Riverside Medical Center

We at Riverside Medical Center are dedicated to fulfilling our to mission to provide high quality healthcare services in a safe, compassionate and cost-efficient environment to our residents of Washington Parish and surrounding areas. There is nothing more important in meeting this mission than having the Team to do it. And that is what we are doing here at RMC! 

Yesterday evening, October 2nd, we had the great honor of introducing and recognizing not only our New Onboarding Physicians, Dr. Nika Vinson, Dr. Adam Ramsey, and the Rural Physicians Hospitalist Group, but also recognizing our dedicated RMC staffed CRNAs, PAs, NPs, and Physicians. 

• Dr. Nika Vinson is an OBGYN specialized in Urogynecology and Female Pelvic and Reconstructive Surgery. The woman in Washington Parish and surrounding areas now have the option of meeting these specialists needs right here at home! 

• Dr. Adam Ramsey is Family Practice Physician and specializes in addictive medicine treatment. More primary care options and knowledge of specialized addictive medicine treatments is a vastly needed service to our community! 

• Our new Hospitalist Group, Rural Physicians Group, was founded by a hospitalist physician and specialized specifically for rural communities and hospitals like RMC. With huge success, group is now in over 40 hospitals across the country. We have recently partnered with 4 new physicians that will be providing hospitalist care here at RMC from the RPG Group: Dr. Kumar, Dr. Jeter, Dr. Power, and Dr. Orta. 

With these providers, for the first time in many years, every patient that visits our Clinics or ER that is in need of an admission to our hospital will be seen and cared for from our hospitalist physicians 24/7/365!! Yes, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and 365 days of the year the hospitalists are on site to care for any needs that may arise!! 

Again, we at RMC are dedicated to fulfilling our Mission to provide high quality healthcare services in a safe, compassionate, and cost-efficient environment to the residents of Washington Parish and surrounding areas. We are building the team to do just that!! 

Thank you to everyone that was able to join us yesterday for this exciting introductory event!

RMC's Facebook page and RMC's Website

Obituary

Stephen Keith Lee

October 31, 1960 - September 21, 2024

Obituary

Joseph "Joe" Hampton Johnson

November 25, 1937 - October 4, 2024

One Dead, Five Injured, One Arrested in Independence Crash

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) Major Crash team is asking the public for information about a fatal crash that resulted in one arrest so far.

Just before 6 p.m. on Saturday (September 28, 2024), TPSO was notified of a crash in the 54000 block of N Larussa Lane in Independence.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2003 Ford Expedition, driven by 45 year-old Antonino Reyes Carcamo of Independence, lost control while making a left-hand turn and hit a tree causing it to overturn. There were six people, including Carcamo, in the vehicle at the time. Five people experienced varying levels of injury, and unfortunately, 23 year-old Marisol Carcamo Vargas died at the scene.

Following his release from the hospital, Carcamo was arrested for Vehicular Homicide, Driving While Intoxicated and Reckless Operation of a Vehicle.

This investigation is ongoing with additional charges pending. Anyone with information about this case can contact our Major Crash Investigations Team at 985-748-3333.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Gulf of Mexico: Disorganized showers and thunderstorms located over the western Gulf of Mexico are associated with a trough of low pressure. A broad area of low pressure is expected to form over the southwestern or south-central Gulf of Mexico this weekend, and thereafter some gradual development is possible while the low moves slowly eastward or northeastward. A tropical or subtropical depression or storm could form during the early to middle part of next week if the low remains separate from a frontal boundary that is forecast to extend across the Gulf of Mexico next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.

Disturbance 2. Hurricane Kirk is no threat to our area but remains a large and powerful hurricane way out in the Atlantic. Weakening is forecast to begin on Saturday and continue through early next week. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 3. Tropical Storm Leslie is not likely a threat to our area. Leslie has gotten a little stronger. Leslie is currently about 645 miles west-southwest of the southernmosst Cabo Verde Islands moving west at 6 mph with 60 mph maximum sustained winds. A turn toward the west-northwest is expected later today, followed by a turn toward the northwest and an increase in forward speed early Sunday into Monday. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   A 70% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 82. East wind 5 to 10 mph. New rainfall amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms.

Tonight   A 30% chance of showers before 7pm. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 68. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Saturday   Partly sunny, with a high near 86. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 67. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 87. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Sunday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 66. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

UPDATE: Tangipahoa Murder Suspect in Custody in Texas

The East Baton Rouge Sheriff's Office has assumed the homicide investigation for 69-year-old William Nicholas Abraham of Baton Rouge after discovering evidence in East Baton Rouge Parish consistent with foul play.

Click here for previous related stories

Terryon Thomas (age 20), who is currently in custody in Dallas, Texas is charged with Second Degree Murder and Obstruction of Justice. 

"I appreciate the work done by the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office, Baton Rouge Police Department, U.S. Marshal's Service and all others involved," Sheriff Sid Gautreaux said. "This is an ongoing investigation that will take time to gather further evidence. I hope that this arrest may bring some closure and assurance to friends and family." 

“I am incredibly proud of the TPSO team, and the public, for working together so quickly to lead to this strong case closure. We are confident EBRSO’s continuous work going forward will find the answers many of us would like to have and we stand ready to assist with that effort at any point," Tangipahoa Sheriff Gerald Sticker said. 

The relationship of the suspect to the victim and the murder motive are still under investigation. At this time, there is no evidence to suggest that Thomas was a client of Abraham. 

This incident is under investigation and further updates will be provided when available for release. 

Thomas will be extradited to EBR for court at a later date.

Eleven Pounds of Fentanyl Located During Slidell-area Traffic Stop - Street Value of $388,000

Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Narcotics Division located 11 pounds of fentanyl during a traffic stop on Saturday (September 28, 2024) and arrested four men, whom detectives learned were traveling from Florida to Louisiana with the fentanyl.  The illegal drugs had an estimated street value of approximately $388,000.

Detectives with the STPSO Narcotics Unit and Proactive Enforcement Unit conducted traffic stops on two Florida registered vehicles as they were traveling westbound on Interstate 12 near Slidell. With the assistance of Homeland Security Investigations and a United States Border Patrol drug detection K-9, detectives searched both vehicles. They located and seized 5 kilograms (11 pounds) of fentanyl hidden within secret compartments inside one of the vehicles.

Arrested and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Facility were

• Mervin Cruz of Saint Cloud, Fla.: Charges of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (Fentanyl), Possession of Schedule I CDS (Marijuana), and Improper Lane Use.

• Alexis Cintron of Davenport, Fla.: Charges of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (Fentanyl) and Littering.

• Shaquan Stridiron of Orlando, Fla.: Charge of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (Fentanyl)

• Yoscari Lizardo of Kissimmee, Fla.: Charges of Possession with the Intent to Distribute Schedule II CDS (Fentanyl and Turn Signal required.

Fentanyl is a very dangerous drug,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “This was a very large bust and I am proud of the work the detectives with our Narcotics Division do every day, working with Homeland Security and the Border Patrol to identify and arrest those individuals who are bringing it into our community.”

Former State Police Employee Arrested for Theft

Detectives with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Property Crimes Division have arrested a former employee of the Louisiana State Police after he was caught “skip scanning” items at a Covington-area retailer.

(Editor's note: Skip scanning is a self-checkout theft technique that occurs when a customer pretends to scan an item before putting it in a bag or basket or uses a bar code from an item of lesser value and quickly bags the more expensive item.)

Huey Galmiche, age 50 and of Covington, was arrested Wednesday (October 2, 2024) and booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center for one count each of Misdemeanor Theft and Malfeasance in Office.

Galmiche, who recently retired from Louisiana State Police, committed the crimes while on duty and while dressed in his State Police uniform.

“We hold all law enforcement officers to a higher standard and if they break the law they will be arrested,” Sheriff Randy Smith said.

“Sgt. Huey Galmiche resigned his position with Louisiana State Police effective today,” said Colonel Robert Hodges, State Police Superintendent.  “Upon learning of the ongoing investigation, Sgt. Galmiche was immediately placed on administrative leave with all his law enforcement property recovered by Troop L supervisors.  Professionalism and accountability are paramount within our agency and the entire public safety profession.  When those expectations are not met, we owe it to ourselves and the public we serve to ensure the appropriate legal action.  Sgt. Galmiche made the decision to retire after 26 years of service and now must follow the legal process inclusive of his right to be innocent until proven guilty.”

Obituary

Neta Von Dykes Duncan

February 14, 1938 - October 2, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 1-2, 2024

Patrick Brewer (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2
counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10000.00.

Rachel Galiano (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Theft Less Than 1000, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Schedule III Drugs, Possession of Schedule IV Drugs, Bank Fraud, and Access Device Fraud by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $17500.00.

Paul Kates (age 38 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Driving While Intoxicated, Improper Turn/Accident, No Drivers License, and Open Container in Vehicle by the Louisiana State Police. Released on $3500.00 bond.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

“Garbage Can Bandit” Sought in Tangipahoa Parish

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) needs your help identifying and locating a man dubbed as the “Garbage Can Bandit.” (See more images below)

On September 18, 2024, the man seen in the attached still images went into the Dollar General store in the 19000 block of Highway 22 in Ponchatoula and was seen taking a large garbage can from a shelf then filling it with washing detergent and other items. The man then walked out of the store without paying for any of the items and got into a black SUV with a tire mounted on the back of the vehicle.

This same individual committed the exact same crimes at the Dollar General in the 27000 block of Highway 22 on September 23, 2024 and at the Family Dollar on Highway 22 the next day (September, 24, 2024).

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about who this suspect is, or his whereabouts, to contact the Criminal Investigations Office at 985-345-6150. 

If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Obituary

Kenneth R. McGriggs, Jr.

September 14, 1969 - September 24, 2024

Obituary

Larry Donnell Johnson

September 24, 1955 - September 23, 2024

Obituary

Johnnie Ray Thomas

July 15, 1947 - October 2, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Gulf of Mexico: Disorganized showers and thunderstorms over portions of the Gulf of  Mexico are associated with a surface trough.  A broad area of low pressure is likely to develop over the Gulf of Mexico late this weekend or early next week, but subsequent tropical or subtropical development could be limited by the system's potential interaction with a frontal boundary.  Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent an formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Disturbance 2. Hurricane Kirk is no threat to our area. Kirk is located about 1185 miles east of the northern Leeward Islands moving northwest at 10 mph with maximum sustained winds of 120 mph. A turn toward the north and north-northeast at a faster forward speed is forecast over the weekend. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 3. Tropical Storm Leslie should not be a threat to our area but is forecast to strengthen into a hurricane during the next couple of days. Leslie is located about 515 miles southwest of the southernmost Cape Verde Islands moving west at 6 mph with maximum sustained winds of 40 mph. A slow westward motion is expected through tonight, followed by a slightly faster west-northwestward motion Friday through Saturday. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 88. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph in the morning.

Tonight   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 3am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Friday   A 40 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms, mainly after 7am. Partly sunny, with a high near 85. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Friday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East wind around 5 mph.

Saturday   Partly sunny, with a high near 86. East wind 5 to 10 mph.

Saturday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 69. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Former Tangipahoa Parish Jail Nurse Indicted on Federal Charges for Fraud, Drug Distribution, and Perjury

United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today (October 2, 2024) that Tonya Denise Brown, age 48 and of Tangipahoa Parish, a licensed practical nurse, has been charged on September 26, 2024 in a nine-count indictment.

The indictment charges Brown with four counts of wire fraud, with each count alleging a different scheme.  In one alleged scheme, Brown obtained money with false promises of assistance with state criminal prosecutions.  The indictment alleges that Brown used a nursing job at the Tangipahoa Parish Jail to conduct the scheme.  The other three alleged schemes relate to disaster assistance.  Specifically, Brown is accused of defrauding people by claiming that, in exchange for money, she would help them obtain disaster assistance benefits.  Brown is also accused of defrauding the HUD-funded Restore Louisiana Homeowner Assistance Program, which provided grant funding to homeowners affected by disasters.  Additionally, Brown is accused of defrauding FEMA’s rental assistance program that provided grants to help displaced disaster victims pay their rent.  Brown is also charged with Aggravated Identity Theft for allegedly misusing a notary’s identity in the rental assistance scheme.

Further, Brown is charged with two counts related to the sale of controlled substances.  Specifically, she is charged with Use of a Facility in Interstate Commerce in Aid of an Unlawful Activity, by using the internet to sell drugs, including oxycodone and dextroamphetamine-amphetamine.  She is also charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance by offering to sell oxycodone hydrochloride pills.

Finally, Brown is charged with two counts regarding false statements.  One count charges Brown with making a False Statement to the FBI.  The other count charges her for making a False Declaration Before the Court by allegedly lying to a judge.

The wire fraud counts alleging false promises of assistance with state criminal cases and false promises of assistance with disaster benefits are each punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release.  The wire fraud counts related to the Restore program and the FEMA rental assistance program are each punishable by up to 30 years’ imprisonment and five years’ supervised release due to enhanced penalties for fraud involving disaster benefits.  The aggravated identity theft count is punishable by two years’ imprisonment and up to one year’s supervised release.  The False Statement count, the False Declaration Before the Court count, and the Use of a Facility in Interstate Commerce in Aid of an Unlawful Activity count are each punishable by up to five years’ imprisonment and three years’ supervised release.  A fine of up to $250,000 may be imposed for each count except the Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance count, for which a fine of up to $1,000,000 may be imposed.  As to each charged count, Brown also faces payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.              

United States Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the defendant’s guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

United States Attorney Evans thanked the FEMA Fraud Investigations & Internal Inspections Division, Fraud Prevention and Investigations Branch for its assistance in this matter.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Office of Inspector General - U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.  Assistant U.S.  Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.

Obituary

Barbara Ann Cutrer

October 7, 1947 - October 2, 2024

Is Washington Parish Ready for the Truth? Investigating The Murder Of Donna Arceneaux

I’ve spent years investigating a lifetime of disturbing allegations in my hometown, and now I’m inviting you to join me as this chillingly personal story unfolds into a murder investigation of 40-year-old single mom Donna Arceneaux. Join me as each episode unfolds, just as my investigation did in real time. – Tucker Simmons, Host

PREVENTION AT WORK!!!

Press Release from ADAPT, Inc. 

Learn more about ADAPT at https://www.adaptwp.org/ and more about the Washington Parish Youth Coalition at https://www.facebook.com/WPYouth17

Washington Parish Youth Coalition members joined forces with the Franklinton Police Department and the Bridge Store, to implement the National Sticker Shock Campaign on Monday, September 30, 2024. This campaign is aimed at educating, informing, and reminding the public that it is against the law to purchase alcohol for underaged individuals. 

We would like to thank the Bridge Store for their compliance and support of Louisiana law RS 14:93.11 and the Franklinton Police Department for helping enforce this program. 

If your business would like to participate in the National Sticker Shock Campaign, please contact Jana Pounds at Adapt: 985-735-0160.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Northwestern Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico: A broad trough of low pressure is producing a large area of disorganized showers and thunderstorms from the southwestern Caribbean Sea into the southern Gulf of Mexico. Environmental conditions could support some gradual development of this system, and a tropical depression could form over the weekend as the broader disturbance moves fully into the Gulf of Mexico. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.

Disturbance 2. Hurricane Kirk is no threat to us but is strengthening and is expected to become a major hurricane by Thursday. Kirk is located way out in the Atlantic about 1200 miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands moving NW at 14 mph with maximum sustained winds of 80 mph. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 3. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL91): Showers and thunderstorms continue to show signs of organization in association with an area of low pressure located a few hundred miles south-southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands.  Environmental conditions appear conducive for further development of this system, and a tropical depression is expected to form during the next day or so while it moves slowly westward over the eastern tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...90 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...90 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 89. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 66. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Thursday   Increasing clouds, with a high near 88. East wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   A 30% chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. Southeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Friday   A 60% chance of showers and thunderstorms. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 83. East wind 5 to 10 mph. 

Friday Night   Mostly cloudy, with a low around 70. East wind around 5 mph.

Obituary

Harrell Norman Cutrer

September 20, 1948 - September 30, 2024

Tangipahoa Parish Work Release Inmate Re-Arrested After Walk-Off

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has re-arrested a work release inmate after he walked off a job site Tuesday. Ethan Morse, age 22, was re-booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on one count of Simple Escape. Morse was convicted of Simple Burglary, Resisting Arrest by Flight and Resisting an Officer in August 2024. He was serving a 2-year sentence.

Around 6 a.m. today (October 1, 2024), TPSO was notified that Morse did not check in at the end of his overnight shift. Morse was in a program that allows select Department of Corrections inmates to work jobs with partner businesses outside of the jail. Deputies immediately coordinated with area law enforcement partners to make contact with Morse’s relatives and known associates about their knowledge of his whereabouts. Shortly after making those communications, Morse turned himself in.

Additional arrests are expected in this case.

As a result of this incident, new protocols regarding this program’s operations have been put in place including increasing the check-in requirements for inmates.

“We have said it a few times but our jail and its programs are a work in progress” said Sheriff Gerald Sticker, “There are many beneficial operations and programs in place that just require better oversight and management. We are working to identify those every day and we are grateful this scenario ended quickly and safely in order for us to positively learn from it.”

Bogalusa Man Sentenced for Migratory Game Bird Offenses

Trevor Truax, age 29 and of Bogalusa, was sentenced on August 27, 2024, by U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge, Janis van Meerveld, to three years of inactive probation suspending his hunting privileges world-wide, a fine of $15,290.00 and a $40.00 mandatory special assessment fee.

Counts 1 and 2 charged Truax with Taking Migratory Birds During Closed Season; Counts 3 and 4 charged Truax with Taking Migratory Birds Over the Limit. 

According to court documents, Truax admitted to Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries agents that he illegally duck hunted on multiple occasions in Louisiana and Mississippi.  Agents cited Truax for the illegal taking of migratory game birds during the closed season and for taking over the limit of ducks/migratory game birds in Washington Parish, Louisiana.  Truax also previously pled guilty to migratory game bird offenses in the United States District Court for the Southern District of Mississippi.

The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the United States Fish and Wildlife Service and the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries with this matter. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mary Katherine Kaufman of the General Crimes Unit.

Arrest Made Following Mandeville-area Home Invasion

This morning (October 1, 2024), 31 year-old Jaques Dutel was arrested for Home Invasion after he broke into a Mandeville-area residence. 

At approximately 4:30 a.m., a homeowner in the 2000 block of Labarre Street near Mandeville was awakened by the sound of his glass front door shattering. The homeowner located an unknown man inside this residence holding what appeared to be a knife. Upon being confronted by the homeowner, the man fled the residence on foot. He was located a short time later by St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's deputies at a residence where he was staying in the 2000 block of Destin Street.

“This could have ended very badly, I want to applaud and thank the patrol deputies involved and the detectives with our Major Crimes Division for identifying and arresting this perpetrator so quickly,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “They are truly the best of the best and St. Tammany is lucky to have such trained and dedicated investigators serving the peoples of our great parish.”

Obituary

Peter Frank Voltolina, Jr.

January 20, 1934 - September 30, 2024

Early Morning Gunfire Leads to Arrest of Two in Bogalusa

On Sunday (September 29, 2024) at approximately 2:14 am, Bogalusa Police Officers responded to a local establishment on Columbia St in reference to shots fired. On arrival officers encountered a chaotic scene but were able to determine that no one had been struck by gunfire.

Once officers gained control of the scene, the investigation revealed that an altercation had taken place between two groups of females. One of the females introduced a firearm but the firearm was then taken from her by an accomplice and fired at the other parties involved in the initial altercation. Officers recovered physical evidence as well as video evidence and statements from witnesses present. One person sustained minor injuries as a result of the incident.

24 year-old Chazity Lia Magee (pictured above right) of Mt. Hermon, Louisiana was arrested and booked with Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Illegal use of Weapons, Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, and Aggravated Battery. Bond has been set at $125,000.00.

32 year-old Chantel Jannece Walker (pictured above left) of Angie, Louisiana was also arrested and charged with Possession of a Weapon by a Convicted Felon. Bond .has been set at $50,000.00

Happy Older Persons Day!

"Ageing is just another word for living." - Cindy Joseph

"We are always the same age inside." - Gertrude Stein

"The best tunes are played on the oldest fiddles!" - Ralph Waldo Emerson

"One day you will look back and see that all along you were blooming." - Morgan Harper Nichols

"Getting old is like climbing a mountain; you get a little out of breath, but the view is much better!" - Ingrid Bergman

"It matters not how long we live but how." - Philip James Bailey

"Age is simply the number of years the world has been enjoying you!" - Unknown

"It's important to have a twinkle in your wrinkle." - Unknown

“Age is a question of mind over matter. If you don't mind, it doesn't matter.” – Leroy “Satchel” Paige

“Wrinkles mean you laughed, gray hair means you cared, and scars tell you lived.” - Unknown

Obituary

David Lawrence Steinwinder

September 26, 1931 - September 19, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for September 30, 2024

Kacie Kihneman (age 45 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Introduction of Contraband to Penal Institute, Speed Unsafe for Road Conditions, No Taillight, and Driving Under Suspension by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Patrick Mizell (age 49 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Beverly Pace (age 68 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs (2 counts) by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Chantel Walker (age 32 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Chazity Magee (age 24 with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charges of Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Illegal Carrying and Discharge of Weapon, Aggravated Criminal Damage to Property, and Aggravated Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Isaiah Alexander (age 26 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charge of Aggravated Battery by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

The photo of persons pictured were released by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office in accordance with their updated policy guided by legal and ethical considerations. 

***All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty***

Person of Interest Sought in Tangipahoa Homicide

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) is asking the public to help identify a person of interest in the homicide investigation of a Baton Rouge man.

Click here for our previous story

Detectives believe the individual seen in these store surveillance pictures is the last person known to have been driving 69-year-old William Nicholas Abraham’s vehicle. The vehicle was located by Baton Rouge Police Monday (September 30, 2024) afternoon. The driver of the vehicle, at the time, sped away from a traffic stop and ultimately ran away after crashing the car.

Abraham’s body was found Sunday (September 29, 2024) morning  wrapped in a tarp on the side of Highway 51 between Fluker and the Village of Tangipahoa. The Coroner’s Office has ruled Abraham was killed by blunt force trauma.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages anyone with information about the person seen in these pictures to contact the Criminal Investigations Office at 985-902-2008. 

If you’d prefer to share information anonymously, you can do so through Crime Stoppers of Tangipahoa’s tip line at 1-800-554-5245 or visit www.tangicrimestoppers.com and click on the P3 Tips icon or Submit A Tip! You may be eligible for a cash reward.

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Northwestern Caribbean Sea and Gulf of Mexico: Disorganized showers and thunderstorms located over the southwestern Caribbean Sea are associated with a trough of low pressure. Environmental conditions could support some gradual development of this system, and a tropical depression could form towards the end of this week or this weekend while it moves generally northwestward over the northwestern Caribbean Sea and into the Gulf of Mexico. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 percent.

Disturbance 2. Tropical Storm Kirk is no threat to our area. Kirk is located way out in the Atlantic moving WNW at 14 mph with 60 mph maximum sustained winds. Kirk is likely to strengthen into a hurricane by tonight and could become a major hurricane on Thursday. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 3. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL91): Showers and thunderstorms continue to show signs organization in association with a broad area of low pressure located a few hundred miles south-southwest of the Cabo Verde Islands.  Environmental conditions appear conducive for further development of this system, and a tropical depression is expected to form during the next couple of days while it moves slowly westward over the eastern tropical Atlantic. Formation chance through 48 hours...high...80 percent and formation chance through 7 days...high...90 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Sunny, with a high near 87. Light north wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the morning.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 66. North wind around 5 mph.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 87. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Wednesday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 65. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 89. East wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   A 20 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1am. Partly cloudy, with a low around 69. East wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.