Arrest Made in Lacombe-area Murder

This morning (October 16, 2024), the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's reported the arrest on October 15, 2024 of 17 year-old Caleb Gasery of Lacombe for the murder of Jason Sumner on October 9, 2024. 

Shortly before 10 p.m. on October 9, 2024, STPSO deputies were dispatched to a residence in the 26000 block of E. Jackson St. in Lacombe in reference to a subject who had possibly been shot. Patrol deputies located a man, who had sustained an apparent gunshot wound, lying near the porch of the residence. Life-saving measures were attempted but were unsuccessful. The body was turned over to the St. Tammany Parish Coroner’s Office.

The investigation by Detectives with the St Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Major Crimes Unit led to the arrest of Gasery on the charge of Second-Degree Murder. 

“I want to thank the hard-working men and women of our Major Crimes Unit who have worked around the clock to identify and arrest the individual responsible for this crime,” Sheriff Randy Smith said. “This arrest helps to bring some closure to the Sumner family and the Lacombe community.”

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Western Caribbean Sea: A broad area of low pressure is over the southwestern Caribbean Sea. Some gradual development is possible if the system stays over water while it moves slowly northwestward towards Central America. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

Disturbance 2. Central Tropical Atlantic (AL94): A broad area of low pressure is located over the central tropical Atlantic. This system is forecast to move generally westward to west-northwestward, and environmental conditions appear marginally conducive for gradual development during the latter part of this week. A tropical depression could form as the system moves near the Leeward and Virgin Islands late this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 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 68. Northeast wind around 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 42. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 70. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 44. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 75. East wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 48. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Obituary

Charline Goings Cefalu

May 11, 1932 - October 15, 2024

Obituary

Elton "Coach" Shaw

May 21, 1933 - October 12, 2024

Obituary

Tommie Joyce Herring Lea 

February 9, 1924 – October 14, 2024

What could this winter look like?

A weak La Niña is expected to develop, according to an article on cnn.com. Click here for the full article

La Niña's typical influence on the winter in the Lower 48 is shown below.

Message from Washington Parish Sheriff's Office: We're Hiring!

Good Morning,

Our office is currently accepting applications for communications deputies (dispatch), corrections deputies, and POST-1 certified patrol deputies. If you’re looking for a career with excellent benefits and opportunities for advancements and you’re ready to make a difference in your community, give us a call or fill out an online application.

• Communication Deputies are an essential part of our team, fielding calls from the public, coordinating response efforts between units, and managing the computer and phone systems that allow us to relay vital information in order to better serve the public. Must be 18 to apply, and possess a valid driver’s license and high school diploma or GED. The ideal candidate will have strong communication and multitasking skills, and be able to work on rotating shifts. Pay is $16/hr.

• Corrections Deputies work in the Washington Parish Jail, providing safety and security to our inmates while maintaining law and order within the facility. Our team works together to keep the facility humming along, and a functioning jail is critical to maintaining law and order within the community. Must be 18 to apply, and possess a valid driver’s license and high school diploma or GED. Pay is $14.25/hr.

• Patrol Deputies are our front-line team members, working with the public to maintain peace and safety within our community. Deputies who are already POST certified will be preferentially hired, but anyone interested in a career in law enforcement is encouraged to apply. Non-certified applicants may work in the jail until they are offered a slot at our training academy to become POST certified patrol deputies. Base pay depends on experience and certifications.

All positions come with a competitive benefits package, including medical coverage, pension, vacation, and opportunities for advancement within the organization. Applications can be found on our website, https://www.wpso.la.gov/

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 14, 2024

Deonta Nelson (age 23 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS
With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $40000.00.

Trey Smith (age 29 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Failure to Appear by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $41309.00.

Paul Courtney (age 30 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Lajerek Toomer (age 27 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Cedric Greely (age 59 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Resisting an Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Possession of Schedule II Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $6000.00.

Halley Ross (age 38 with Biloxi, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, and Possession of Schedule III Drugs by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $5000.00.

Mason Buff (age 31 with Bay City, Tx. address) was booked on the charge of Expired Drivers License by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $1500.00.

Vijay Bhuschan (age 48 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jeremy Forbes (age 41 with Sandy Hook, Ms. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule 1 Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Jonathan Peters (age 22 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm, and Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $75000.00.

Allen Peterson (age 42 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of CDS
With Weapon Present, Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Marijuana, Drug Free Zone Violation, Possession of a Stolen Firearm, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Fugitive Other Jurisdiction, and Convicted Felon in Possession of Firearm 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***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Western Caribbean Sea: A broad area of low pressure could develop over the southwestern Caribbean Sea by the middle to latter portions of this week. Some gradual development is possible thereafter if the system stays over water while it moves slowly west-northwestward towards northern Central America. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...near 0 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Disturbance 2. Central Tropical Atlantic (AL94): An area of low pressure is located over the central tropical Atlantic. This system is forecast to move generally westward, and environmental conditions could become more conducive for gradual development by the middle to latter part of this week. A tropical depression could form as the system begins moving west-northwestward and approaches or moves near the Leeward Islands late this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...60 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Today   Partly sunny, then gradually becoming sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming northwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 48. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 69. Northeast wind around 15 mph.

Wednesday Night   Clear, with a low around 43. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 71. East wind around 5 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 45. Calm wind becoming east around 5 mph after midnight.

Is Washington Parish Ready for the Truth? Investigating The Murder Of Donna Arceneaux. Episode 3

Donna had a history of regular visits to the local hospital - those records uncover a completely new theory in her death. While trying to make contact with Clay, Tucker finally reaches Donna's spiritual counselor, and she doesn't hold back.
 

See the introduction and related links here.

Listen to Episode 1 here.

Listen to Episode 2 here.

WPSS is Hiring Teachers!

Are you passionate about making a difference in students' lives? Consider joining the Washington Parish School System! 

We offer a comprehensive benefits package, including:

✅ A selection of HMO health plans  

✅ Group life insurance  

✅ State-supported retirement  

✅ Credit union access  

✅ Dental care plans  

✅ Flexible spending accounts and tax-deferred annuities

Ready to make an impact? Click below to explore our job opportunities!  

📲 985.839.3436

Former STPSO Employee Arrested for Financial Crimes

The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office reports the arrest Monday (October 14, 2024) of  Andrea Baragona, age 38 and a former school resource officer with the STPSO on the charges of Theft Over $25,000 (felony), Money Laundering $20,000-$100,000 (felony), False Accounting (misdemeanor), Injuring Public Records (felony) and Malfeasance in Office (felony).  She will be booked into the St. Tammany Parish Correctional Center.   

Baragona has been employed with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office since April 2013. The report states that these crimes in no way involved Sheriff’s Office or School Board funds.

This investigation is ongoing.

“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

Susan Diane Magee

September 29, 1966 - October 12, 2024

Obituary

Lindoris R. Bickham

November 9, 1952 - October 3, 2024

Franklinton Police Apprehend Suspect After Vehicle and Foot Chases

Before daylight on Sunday (October 13,2024) morning, at approximately 3:45 AM, Franklinton Police Officers were dispatched to Riverside Medical Center about a report of female being involved in a domestic violence incident and being struck in the head by a pistol. 

Officers then went to 1209 Bene Street in attempt to locate the suspect, 24 year-old Damain Barnes. Officers found several bullet holes inside the residence and blood throughout the house. A projectile and casing was recovered on the front porch. 

While the investigation was being conducted, a vehicle matching the description that Barnes fled in was observed traveling back near the residence. When Officers attempted to stop the vehicle, the vehicle fled but crashed in the 900 block of Bene St.. The driver bailed out on foot, fleeing from officers, wearing dark-colored jeans and white t-shirt.  

Later, a citizen observed a subject matching the description, walking on Hwy 25. 2.7 miles north of Franklinton. The civilian called FPD and Officers responded to the reported sighting. The subject jumped off the Hays Creek bridge and fled on foot again from officers. Officers pursued the him through the brush and creek and apprehended Barnes. 

Barnes was charged with Home Invasion, Aggravated Second Degree Battery (2 counts), Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, and Possession of Firearm With Obliterated Serial Number. Barnes was booked into the Washington Parish Jail at 8:18 AM. The booking report showed Barnes as a resident of Dickerson Lane, Kentwood, Louisiana. No bond had been set at press time.

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

LSU AgCenter's Weekly Message

Plant at the Right Time to Grow Garlic and Bulb Onions

Garlic and most types of bulb-forming onions need to be exposed to cool temperatures followed by longer days to form bulbs of the desired sizes. The time of planting is therefore important.

Garlic planted between September and October produces usable bulbs approximately 7 to 8 months after planting, or around mid-April to June.

Bulb onion transplants can be planted between mid-December and January for harvest around May. The size of onion transplants is important. Ones that are too large at the time of planting are likely to bolt (flower). At the same time, if they’re too small, they may not survive. Choose transplants that have a diameter less than that of a pencil but at least three true leaves.

Since both take a relatively long time to mature, garlic and onions can be planted along the edge of the garden, so that the rest of the garden can be prepared for spring planting.

Three types of garlic grown in Louisiana are elephant or Tahiti garlic (mild-flavored, large, dark-colored cloves), Creole garlic (white cloves intermediate with respect to size and pungency), and Italian garlic (strong-flavored, small, pink-skinned cloves). Elephant garlic is actually a different species from regular garlic and is more closely related to leeks. Both elephant and Italian garlic store well.

Bulb onion varieties to consider include Candy, Red Burgundy, Savannah Sweet, Texas Grano 1015Y, Texas Grano 502, White Granex, and Yellow Granex. If you want an onion that stores well and sweetness isn’t a priority, look for Red Creole.

Plant individual garlic cloves 2 to 3 inches deep and 3 to 6 inches apart. Be sure that the top ends are pointed upwards. Space bulb-forming onion transplants 2 to 4 inches apart. The base of the transplant should be 0.5 to 0.75 inch deep. When planted in rows, garlic and onion can be “double drilled.” In other words, two (or more) “drills” (rows) of plants can be spaced about 1 foot apart within each row.

Before planting garlic, 0.5 pound (1 cup) of 13-13-13 or 0.4 pound (0.8 cup) of 8-24-24 can be mixed into the soil, for every 10 feet of row or 30 square feet. For the same area, 0.25 pound (0.5 cup) 13-13-13 or 8-24-24 can be mixed into the soil before planting bulb-forming onions. Avoid overfertilizing onions, since doing so can encourage them to bolt.

Side-dress garlic plants when shoots emerge from the soil (about 3 to 4 weeks after planting), when new growth begins in late winter (around mid-February), and then three to four weeks after that (around early March). Wait until about mid-February to side-dress onions, and then side-dress every two to three weeks, for a total of three to four applications. When side-dressing, 0.1 pound (0.2 cups or 3 tablespoons) of 33-0-0, 0.15 pound (0.25 cup or 4 tablespoons) of ammonium sulfate, or 0.2 pound (0.33 cup or 5 tablespoons) of calcium nitrate can be used each time, per 10 feet of row or 30 square feet.

Pay attention to weeds, and don’t let them get out of control. They can be hard to manage among closely spaced plants.

It’s time to harvest garlic and bulb onions when leaves turn yellow and when 50 to 60 percent of tops have fallen over, respectively.

When growing green onions, leeks, and shallots (for the tops rather than for bulbs), you have more flexibility with respect to planting time. These can be planted, using transplants or sets, between August and February. Chives, which we generally think of as an herb more so than a vegetable, are perennial and can be transplanted just about any time. Planting between fall and mid-spring gives them a chance to get established before the weather gets really hot.

Let me know if you have questions.

Click here for previous LSU AgCenter's Weekly Messages

Dr. Mary Helen Ferguson is an Extension Agent with the LSU AgCenter, with horticulture responsibilities in Washington and Tangipahoa Parishes. Contact Mary Helen at mhferguson@agcenter.lsu.edu or 985-277-1850 (Hammond) or 985-839-7855 (Franklinton).

Obituary

Michael Wayne Breland

July 31, 1964 - October 8, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 13, 2024

Damain Barnes (age 24 with Kentwood, La. address) was booked on the charges of Home Invasion, Aggravated Second Degree Battery (2 counts), Domestic Abuse Battery/Strangulation, Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Aggravated Assault With a Firearm, Illegal Use of Weapons or Dangerous Instrumentalities, Resisting by Flight/Aggravated Flight, Resisting an Officer/Flight on Foot, and Possession of Firearm With Obliterated Serial Number by the Franklinton Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Shannon Temples (age 51 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Video Voyeurism by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. 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

Central Tropical Atlantic (AL94): A well-defined area of low pressure is located several hundred miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands. This system is currently embedded in a dry environment, and development is unlikely over the next couple of days. However, this system is forecast to move generally westward toward warmer waters, and environmental conditions could become more favorable for gradual development by the middle to latter part of this week. A tropical depression could form as the system begins moving west-northwestward and approaches or moves near the Leeward Islands late this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...50 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Columbus Day   Sunny, with a high near 87. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Mostly clear, with a low around 60. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm after midnight.

Tuesday   Sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 50. Northeast wind 5 to 15 mph.

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 69. Northeast wind 10 to 15 mph.

Wednesday Night   Clear, with a low around 44. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 12, 2024

William Straughter (age 36 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (4 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $11531.00.

Rodrick/Rogerick Jamal Jones (age 33 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft of a Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Tommie Primes (age 68 with Madisonville, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Angela Breland (age 56 with Folsom, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Medhat Alhashimi (age 34 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Simple Burglary by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

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

Obituary

Ricky Joe Edwards

June 4, 1965 - October 11, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL94): An area of low pressure is located a few hundred miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands. While the system is currently embedded in an environment that is not favorable for development over the next couple of days, the system is forecast to move generally westward to west-southwestward across the tropical Atlantic, where environmental conditions could become more favorable for gradual development in the central Tropical Atlantic by the mid to latter part of this week. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 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. Light southwest wind increasing to 5 to 10 mph in the afternoon.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 64. South wind around 5 mph.

Columbus Day   Sunny, with a high near 88. Northwest wind around 5 mph.

Monday Night   Mostly clear, with a low around 61. North wind around 5 mph.

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

Tuesday Night   Clear, with a low around 52. Northeast wind 5 to 10 mph, with gusts as high as 20 mph.

Obituary

Geraldine "Jeri" Gunulfsen

September 7, 1946 - October 11, 2024

Introducing FREEZE FRAME: The Murder of Donna Arceneaux

Former reality TV executive and Washington Parish native Tucker Simmons returns to his South Louisiana hometown to dig into long-standing rumors of corruption, intimidation, and drug trafficking. Not only are politicians and religious leaders implicated—his own family is rumored to be involved. But when a tip uncovers the truth about the 2017 death of Donna Smith Arceneaux, everything changes. Freeze Frame is a documentary-style series exposing a tangled web of betrayal, blackmail, and murder buried for years in a small town where nothing is as it seems.

Go to https://www.freezeframepodcast.com/ for all available episodes and  click here for the Facebook page.

Click here for the initial story of her death and Click here for her obituary.

Bogalusa Police Arrest Six on Firearms & Narcotics Offenses

The Bogalusa Police Department has reported the arrest on Friday (October 11, 2024) evening of six persons on a variety of firearm and narcotic related offenses after officers responded to a report of shots being fired near a residence off of Sullivan Drive.

The investigation subsequently led to a search warrant being executed at a nearby residence. During the search, Officers located 5 firearms, with one being reported stolen, along with an amount of suspected cocaine and marijuana. 

This matter is currently being investigated and additional details may be released at a later time.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 10-11, 2024

Colby Seal (age 19 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2
counts). No bond set at this time.

Ashwell Scott (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear (2 counts) by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Released on October 11, 2024.

Jennifer McDaniel (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked In From Court

E'Merous Anders (age 25 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Theft 5000-25000 by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $5000.00.

Georgia Dial (age 35 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Cruelty to a Juvenile(s)/ 2 counts. Bond set at $75000.00.

Lisa Beard (age 53 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Protective Order Violation by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $2500.00.

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. Tropical Storm Leslie is no threat to our area, located way out in the Atlantic, and there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Leslie is likely to gradually weaken and become an extratropical cyclone tonight or Sunday.

Disturbance 2. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL94): The circulation associated with an area of low pressure located a couple of hundred miles west of the Cabo Verde Islands appears to have become slightly better defined this morning. However, environmental conditions are expected to become less conducive for further development later today. A short-lived tropical depression could still form at any time today while the system moves generally westward. After that time, the system is forecast to continue moving westward across the central tropical Atlantic, but further development is not anticipated through at least the middle of next week. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...40 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 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 86. Calm wind.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 59. Calm wind.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 88. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   Clear, with a low around 63. South wind around 5 mph.

Columbus Day   Sunny, with a high near 88. Northwest wind 5 to 10 mph.

Monday Night   Clear, with a low around 58. North wind around 5 mph.

Bike Ride & Parade in Franklinton - Raising Awareness About Breast Cancer

This Week in Louisiana Agriculture - Featuring 4-H

In honor of National 4-H Week, Louisiana 4-H State Officers have taken over the TWILA desk to share their own stories about this outstanding organization. From livestock and vocational programs, to fashion and health- the 4-H program offers something for everyone, and equips youth with skills for the future while meeting them where they are today. Take a look at this week’s special episode to learn how the 4-H organization inspires families, shapes careers, and impacts communities across the country! 

Tropical Disturbances Today - REMINDER: The Atlantic hurricane season runs until November 30.

Disturbance 1. Tropical Storm Leslie is no threat to our area, located way out in the Atlantic, and there are no coastal watches or warnings in effect. Gradual weakening is forecast to continue and Leslie is expected to become a post-tropical cyclone in a couple of days.

Disturbance 2. Eastern Tropical Atlantic (AL94): Satellite imagery indicates that shower and thunderstorm activity is currently displaced to the east of the low-level center of an area of low pressure located over the southwestern portion of the Cabo Verde Islands.  Some additional development is possible, and a short-lived tropical depression or tropical storm could form while the system moves westward or west-northwestward at 10 to 15 mph across the Cabo Verde Islands and eastern tropical Atlantic today.  On Saturday, environmental conditions are forecast to become less conducive, and further development appears unlikely after that time. Formation chance through 48 hours...medium...40 percent and formation chance through 7 days...medium...40 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 85. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 57. Calm wind.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 87. Calm wind.

Saturday Night   Clear, with a low around 59. Calm wind.

Sunday   Sunny, with a high near 88. Calm wind becoming southwest around 5 mph in the afternoon.

Sunday Night   Clear, with a low around 63. South wind around 5 mph.

WPSS Job Opening: Custodian at Wesley Ray Elementary

Fundraiser for Hope House & Mission to End Child Abuse

Dear Friends and Colleagues,

It's that time of year that we come together to support our partner organization Hope House, in its annual fundraiser, Heroes Who Cook. This event is consistently one of the most anticipated and rewarding in our community. This year, I have teamed up with Tavi Restaurant, to prepare tastings for the attendees. We hope our participation will result in raising funds critically needed to sustain the mission of Hope House.

The event is on November 3rd from 4PM-7PM on the rooftop of the Justice Center Parking Garage in Covington. If you would like to donate, please see the QR code to the left. If you would like to join us at the Gala, tickets are available for purchase on the website. 

Thank you for your support, Collin

Scan the code above to Donate or CLICK HERE For More Information and Photos. 

Bush Man Sentenced to 50 Years For Sexual Assauls Two Girls

District Attorney Collin Sims reports that on October 9, 2024, 33-year-old Edward John Gabriel IV of Bush was sentenced to 50 years in prison after he pled guilty to a variety of charges related to the sexual assault of two young girls who were between the ages of 12 and 15 at the time of the assaults.  A 12-person jury had been selected and witness testimony was about to commence when the defendant changed his plea to guilty.  Assistant District Attorneys Iain Dover and Tiffany Dover prosecuted the case.  Detective Adrianne Bieller with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office was in charge of the investigation.  

Gabriel pled guilty to one count each of second degree rape, oral sexual battery and carnal knowledge and four counts of sexual battery.  Immediately following his guilty plea, Judge Tara Zeller sentenced him to 50 years in prison on two of the sexual battery charges, 30 years in prison on the second degree rape, and 10 years in prison on the remaining charges.  The sentences were ordered to run concurrent.

The defendant first came into contact with the girls in 2020 when he began assisting their mother with repairs around their residence near Covington.  At some point, the mother allowed the defendant to move into a trailer on the property.  Over time, the defendant groomed the two girls, gaining their trust and building emotional bonds with them. The defendant then gradually began sexually exploiting the girls.

The abuse was brought to the attention of authorities in November, 2021, when the Department of Children and Family Services received a complaint that a man named “Eddie Gabriel” was engaging in sex with a female juvenile.  DCFS notified the St Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office and Detective Bieller was assigned to the case.

The investigation revealed Gabriel had sexually abused the two sisters on numerous occasions over an extended period.  It was also learned the girls’ mother became aware of the abuse in late 2020.  At that time, the family responded by forcing Gabriel to move off the property but no one notified authorities.  Soon afterwards, the mother allowed the defendant to move back on the property and, according to the girls, the sexual abuse resumed until DCFS was notified in late 2021.

In addition to Gabriel being arrested, the girls’ mother was arrested for her failure to take proper action when she was informed of the abuse in 2020.  In 2023, she pled guilty to her charges and was sentenced to 12 years in prison.  Her name is being withheld to protect the identity of the girls.

Once authorities became involved in 2021, both girls were provided care by the Children’s Advocacy Center in Covington and the Audrey Hepburn CARE Center affiliated with Children’s Hospital in New Orleans.  District Attorney Collin Sims wishes to acknowledge the vital services these two agencies provide to young victims of abuse in our local communities. 

During Gabriel’s guilty plea, one of the victims was present in court and confirmed she supported the guilty plea and sentencing terms.  Unfortunately, the second victim passed away in 2022 of a Fentanyl drug overdose.  In connection with her death, a St. Tammany Parish grand jury indicted two adults for distributing drugs to a minor and for murder.  Those defendants are set for trial later this year.

Obituary

Henry Harrison Williams II

July 16, 1957 - October 9, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 9, 2024

Kellie Wempren (age 38 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other
Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Joshua Martin (age 41 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession of Schedule II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Nekeilya Pack (age 26 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction and Battery of a Correctional Facility Employee 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***

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Hurricane Milton is pulling away from the east coast of Florida but still with strong gusty winds and heavy rainfall. Milton is currently located about 75 miles ENE of Cape Canaveral moving ENE at 18 MPH with maximum sustained winds of 85 MPH. This general motion is expected to continue today, followed by a turn toward the east tonight.  On the forecast track, the center of Milton will continue to move away from Florida and pass to the north of the Bahamas today. Gradual weakening is expected, but Milton is forecast to become a powerful extratropical low tonight.

Disturbance 2. Hurricane Leslie is no threat to our area, located way out in the Atlantic, and not worth discussing. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 3. Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave has now emerged off of the west coast of Africa. Environmental conditions appear marginal for limited development of this system while it moves westward or west-northwestward across the eastern tropical Atlantic and the Cabo Verde Islands on Friday.  By Saturday, upper-level winds are forecast to become less favorable, and further development is unlikely after that time.  Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 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 86. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 58. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 85. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night   Clear, with a low around 56. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 86. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.

Saturday Night   Clear, with a low around 59. Calm wind.

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 8, 2024

Nathaniel Varnado (age 18 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Probation
Violation and Theft of a Motor Vehicle 5000-25000 by Probation and Parole. Bond set at $5000.00.

Deonta Lee (age 38 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Distribution of Schedule III CDS, Improper Equipment, Contempt of Court, and Domestic Abuse Battery by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Darris Magee (age 43 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charges of Failure to Appear and Contempt of Court by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $10600.00.

John Holland (age 47 with Slidell, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. No bond set at this time.

Billy Porter (age 49 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs/Principle, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule 1 Drugs/Ecstasy, Possession With Intent to Distribute Schedule II Drugs, Sale Distribution or Possession of Legend Drugs Without Prescription or Order, and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $25000.00.

Cartez Carter (age 28 with Angie, La. address) was booked on the charges of Domestic Abuse/Aggravated Assault, Unauthorized Entry of an Inhabited Dwelling, Battery of Infirm, and Oral Sexual Battery. Bond set at $58500.00.

Virginia Jones (age 68 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Battery of Infirm by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $3500.00.

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***

Obituary

Cedric Tate

April 9, 1961 - September 28, 2024

Obituary

J. C. Cooley

May 8, 1982 - September 28, 2024

Obituary

Mother Clara Jean Magee Graves

December 22, 1949 - October 1, 2024

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Hurricane Milton is growing in size as it moves closer to the west coast of Florida bringing life-threatening storm surge, damaging winds, and flooding rais. Milton is currently about 150 miles SW of Tampa moving NNE at 16 mph with maximum sustained winds of 130 mph. On the forecast track, the center of Milton will make landfall along the west-central coast of Florida tonight, cross the Florida peninsula overnight and early Thursday, and move off the east coast of Florida over the western Atlantic Ocean on Thursday. Milton is a category 4 hurricane and is expected to remain an extremely dangerous major hurricane when it reaches the west-central coast of Florida tonight, and remain at hurricane strength while it moves across the Florida peninsula through Thursday. Gradual weakening is forecast while Milton moves eastward over the western Atlantic, and it is likely to become an extratropical storm by early Friday. Click here for much more detail on watches, warnings, etc,

Disturbance 2. Southwestern Atlantic (AL93): A gale-force non-tropical low pressure system is located less than 300 miles west-southwest of Bermuda and remains disorganized.  Environmental conditions are becoming less favorable for tropical or subtropical development today while the low moves northeastward to east-northeastward at around 15 mph.  Upper-level winds are expected to become too strong for further development tonight or on Thursday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...30 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...30 percent.

Disturbance 3. Hurricane Leslie is no threat to our area, located way out in the Atlantic, and moving away from us. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 4. Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa late tonight or early Thursday.  Afterward, environmental conditions appear only marginally favorable for some limited development of this system while it moves westward or west-northwestward across the eastern tropical Atlantic and through the Cabo Verde Islands on Friday. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...10 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...10 percent.

Local Forecast for the Next Few Days

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

Tonight   Clear, with a low around 59. North wind around 5 mph.

Thursday   Sunny, with a high near 86. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 59. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Friday   Sunny, with a high near 85. Northeast wind around 5 mph.

Friday Night   Clear, with a low around 54. Northeast wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday   Sunny, with a high near 85. Calm wind becoming north around 5 mph.

Obituary

Glenn Cody Wells

February 15, 1989 - October 3, 2024

Washington Parish Jail Bookings for October 7, 2024

Julie Pierce (age 45 with Angie, La. address) was booked In From Court

Adrionne Peters (age 36 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charge of Fugitive Other Jurisdiction by the Bogalusa Police Department. No bond set at this time.

Jason Roach (age 41 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass and Simple Burglary by the Bogalusa Police Department. Bond set at $10000.00.

Mona Champagne (age 65 with Bogalusa, La. address) was booked on the charges of Criminal Trespass and Simple Burglary. Bond set at $10000.00.

Debroxton Warren (age 46 with Franklinton, La. address) was booked on the charge of Bond Surrender by the Washington Parish Sheriff's Office. Bond set at $25000.00.

Jose Ortiz (age not listed with Mt. Hermon, La. address) was booked on the charge of Bond Surrender. Bond set at $5000.00.

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

Obituary

Phillip "Dude" Slocum

August 5, 1960 - October 7, 2024

Folsom Man Arrested for Rape

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office (TPSO) has arrested Dakota Anderson,  a 24 year-old Folsom man,  accused of raping two teenage girls on separate occasions. Anderson was booked into the Tangipahoa Parish Jail on Friday (October 4, 2024) on two counts of 2nd Degree Rape.

TPSO was recently notified about allegations that Anderson raped a 17-year-old girl back in June, and a week later, raped a 16-year-old girl. The crimes reportedly occurred at the same home in Loranger where one of the victims lives. The victims are friends. Anderson was a friend of one of the victims’ relatives and both girls reported being afraid to initially reveal the assaults before now.

Sheriff Gerald Sticker encourages any victims of violence, especially children, to report these crimes to TPSO for investigation. The Criminal Investigations Division can be reached at 985-902-2008 or, as always, in the case of an emergency, call 911.

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

Is Washington Parish Ready for the Truth? Investigating The Murder Of Donna Arceneaux. Episode 2

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

Donna was a mother, a sister, a daughter. Her upbringing was anything but ordinary and those experiences influenced every decision she made. But does any of that matter, and is it relevant to her murder?

Tropical Disturbances Today

Disturbance 1. Hurricane Milton is is a category 4 hurricane currently located about 520 miles SW of Tampa, Florida moving ENE at 9 MPH with maximum sustained winds of 150 MPH. A turn toward the northeast with an increase in forward speed is expected to begin later today and continue through Thursday.  On the forecast track, the center of Milton will move across the eastern Gulf of Mexico and approach the west-central coast of Florida through Wednesday.  The center is likely to make landfall along the west-central coast of Florida on Wednesday night, and move east-northeastward across central Florida through Thursday. Click here for a much more detailed Advisory

Disturbance 2. Southwestern Atlantic:  A broad area of low pressure is near the northern Bahamas with disorganized shower and thunderstorm activity.  Some development of this system is possible during the next day or so while the low moves northeastward to east-northeastward around 15 mph.  Upper-level winds are likely to increase later in the week, which should limit further development. Formation chance through 48 hours...low...20 percent and formation chance through 7 days...low...20 percent.

Disturbance 3. Tropical Storm Leslie is no threat to our area. Leslie is located about 145 miles WNW of the southernmost Cabo Verde Islands moving NW at 13 mph with maximum sustained winds of 70 MPH. There are no coastal watches or warnings in effect.

Disturbance 4. Eastern Tropical Atlantic: A tropical wave is expected to move off the west coast of Africa in a couple of days. Afterward, environmental conditions appear only marginally favorable for some limited development of this system while it moves westward or west-northwestward across the eastern tropical Atlantic, moving near 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...20 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 82. North wind around 10 mph.

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

Wednesday   Sunny, with a high near 86. North wind 5 to 10 mph.

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

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

Thursday Night   Clear, with a low around 58. North wind around 5 mph.

Obituary

Wilma Warner Seal

February 26, 1938 - October 7, 2024

Qualifying for Town of Franklinton Aldermen Reopened

Due to the death of Franklinton Aldermen Candidate Frankie Crosby, the Louisiana Secretary of State's Office has advised that qualifying must be reopened. Qualifying will reopen Tuesday, October 8, 2024 and continue October 9, 2024, and October 10, 2024 until 4:30 p.m. This pursuant to R.S.18:469(A).

Our understanding is that if no additional candidates qualify for the position of Town of Franklinton Aldermen, the election will be held November 5, 2024 as scheduled. If an additional candidate or candidates qualify, the election will be held December 7, 2024. 

The notice below is posted on the Washington Parish Clerk of Court's website.

Obituary

Cynthia Diane Magee

October 24, 1955 - October 4, 2024