Saturday, August 29, 2009

Congratulations Senator Norby Chabert

Congratulations Senator Norby Chabert, who defeated Brent Callais, Saturday, in a match for the Senate District 20 election! Here are the results:


State Senator, 20th Senatorial District 88 of 88 precincts reporting:

8,050
45.67%
Brent Callais, R

9,576
54.33%

"Norby" Chabert, D**

Friday, August 28, 2009

St. Mary Sheriff's Office 8/28



According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 24 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 38 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Cody M. Bancroft-Brownlee 21 yoa of 4111 Francis St., Berwick was arrested on 8-27-2009 at 10:15 am for Off Road Vehicle on Roadway. Deputy was patrolling Zenor Road, when he observed suspect riding an ATV on the roadway. Deputy conducted a traffic stop and placed suspect under arrest and issued him a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Jenarius Green (pictured above right) 19 yoa of 109 Edward Lane, Jeanerette was arrested on 8-26-2009 at 10:06 am on a warrant for Armed Robbery. Arrest stems from a 1-17-2009 an investigation where three suspects came up to victim’s vehicle with a gun and robbed him of his wallet. Suspect was located in the courthouse, placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $150,000.00 bond at this time.

Ashley Dinger 25 yoa of 119 Domino Dr., Patterson was arrested on 8-27-2009 at 1:00 pm on a warrant for Disturbing the Peace. Suspect turned herself into the Morgan City Sheriff’s Office after learning of a warrant for her arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Demetria L. Johnson 31 yoa of 1702 Donna Dr., Franklin was arrested on 8-27-2009 at 4:00 pm on a warrant for Issuing Worthless Checks. Su8spect turned herself into the Sheriff’s Office after learning of a warrant for her arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Marshall D. Bell Jr. 32 yoa of 231 Easy St., Franklin was arrested on 8-27-2009 at 11:05 pm for Driving Under Suspension and Improper Backing. Deputy was parked at the American Legion on Irish Bend Road when he observed suspect vehicle stop in the roadway and began backing down Irish Bend approx. 500 feet and then turn onto Gumpoint Lane. Deputy conducted a traffic stop and learned that suspect was driving under suspension. Suspect was placed under arrest on above charges and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

BREAKING NEWS: MORGAN CITY COUNCIL PASSES UTILTY RATE HIKE

UTILITIES TO START RISING BEGINNING SEPTEMBER 1ST.

MORGAN CITY COUNCILMEN LOU TAMPORELLO, LUKE
MANFRE AND LARRY BERGERON VOTED FOR THE
REQUEST.

MORGAN CITY COUNILMAN TIM HYMEL VOTED NO.

MORGAN CITY COUNCILMAN RON BIAS ABSTAINED,
MEANING HE COULD NOT MAKE UP HIS MIND EITHER
WAY.

THE VOTE WAS 3-1-1.

MORGAN CITY UTILITIES GOING UP SEP 1ST

by: Howard J. Castay, Jr.
(from the Tri-Parish Times)

Is fighting Morgan City Hall’s proposed utility rate hikes akin to shooting spitballs at a battleship?

One Morgan City resident thinks so. Others are mulling a measure seeking to raise utility rates across the board starting Sept. 1.

Mayor Tim Matte pitched the rate hikes in late July. It will be decided at Tuesday's city council meeting following a public hearing.

Matte's proposal will cost residential customers, on average, an additional $20 per month, or $240 annually. Businesses could expect to pay double that - $40 monthly or $480 annually.

The mayor contends he needs the money in order to offset Morgan City's 9 percent drop in sales tax collections. He said funding Morgan City's budgets with the current budget has become a nightmare. Yet, at the end of 2008, the city had a $1.236 million profit in utilities.

It's been two weeks since Matte first proposed the idea. But it isn't sitting well with business owners or residents.

But Annie Keton, a Morgan City homeowner, believes objecting to the utility rate hikes will be as effective as "shooting spitballs at a battleship."

Keton said given the area's declining economy, families and businesses are struggling to keep their heads above water financially. "Our city government should be throwing a life ring, not an anchor," she said.

"I understand that costs are rising and it has been a while since our last increase; but, now is not the time."Many of us have experienced wage cuts, hourly cuts and layoffs. Raising our utility rates , any percentage, could be catastrophic to families and businesses in our area," she added.

Since 1951, Morgan City has relied on utility payments to fund city police and fire budgets and pay public work crews. Dr. Charles Russell Brownell, who was mayor for 32 years, operated the city's first budget that way.

During his four terms as mayor, this is Matte's first proposed utility rate hike.

The last time a Morgan City utility was raised was under Tim Tregle's administration in 2003. The city council approved his request to raise water collection rates.

Prior to Tregle's term, Morgan City last approved a garbage rate hike in the late 1980s during Mayor Cederic Lafleur's term.

Jackie Price, owner of The Frame Shop in Morgan City, said her electric bill this month was $200 higher than her July bill. "And this is before the increase on Sept. 1," she exclaimed.

Price is calling for Matte and city administrators to level with businesses before she forms an opinion on the need for an across-the-board hike. "But unfortunately, I don't think that is going to happen," she said. "I don't think enough people know what's going on, and frankly, maybe they we're not supposed to know what's going on because they (the city) doesn't want us to."

"Also, I believe there are people who live in this city right now who can't afford electricity," she continued. "You heard me. There are people who have running water. But they can't afford the electricity. I don't know who they are, but I've heard the stories."

Similarly, homeowner Max J. Thibodeaux Jr. is skeptical for the need to raise all city utilities. "Matte's proposal to pass an ordinance to increase utility rates because of the shortfall of sales tax revenues is not the answer to the city's lack of economic growth and development," he said.

"If this proposed ordinance is approved by the city council, it will have serious consequences for every resident in this city, especially the poor and the elderly who are on fixed incomes and are struggling to survive from day to day," he added.

Thibodeaux is among those calling for Matte and the Morgan City Council to rethink short-term rate hikes to solve long-term problems." Unless our elected city leaders change directions and begin to provide the type of visionary leadership that will promote innovative ideas with positive goals and objectives that benefit the majority of the people - not just the chosen few amongst the parish's special interest groups - Morgan City is not going to be able to create the type of population base that is needed for future economic growth and development," he said.

"If Morgan City had the right environment, we wouldn't have to be concerned about hunting for new businesses, industries and investors. They would hunt us!" he said.

"Leadership is more than just a word. Leaders solve problems, they don't create them."

Now there are two St. Mary Parish councilmen to join the anti-rate hike fray. Logan Fromenthal, whose parish district includes Morgan City, is strongly opposed to Matte's proposal. He joins Kevin Voisin, who indicated his displeasure earlier.

"I don't agree with these rate hikes at all," he said. "A number of years ago, we passed a $10 million bond issue: $7 million for electricity and $3 million for water improvements. Never has there been a complete explanation of how this money was spent since then."

According to Fromenthal, voters were told the bond issue was essential because Morgan City's filtration plant had just received word that it was not up to state Department of Environmental Quality codes.

Before receiving the bond money, Fromenthal said Morgan City was forced to buy an "exorbitant amount" of chemicals to treat the water to meet state quality standards.

"Where is the savings from this?" he asked."Look, I really don't know what the city's budget is now. I haven't seen it. But I think they could tighten up their purse strings a bit," Fromenthal contended.

"If they're faced with having to spend $10, I think they could get by with spending $7."The savings, he reasoned, would add up.

Home and business owner Frank "Boo" Grizzaffi III, who faced Matte in the 2008 mayoral election, is also questioning the timing of the current mayor's rate hike request.

"One of (Morgan City's) biggest problems is that the city's infrastructure is deteriorating," he said. "But now is not the time for a utility rate hike with the economy upside down and jobs in danger."Grizzaffi said utility customers and residents should demand a line-by-line examination of the city government's budget before supporting a rate hike.

"Before you go to the public for money, you have to have a clean house," he said.

"If you haven't looked at yourself for money, you can't look at anyone else."

Matte told the Tri-Parish Times in an interview last week that raising utility rates was a last resort. He said the move would delay having to adjust city employees to a shorter workweek or laying off staff. "That would curtail us from providing the best service that we can to our residents," the mayor explained.

Tuesday's regular city council meeting begins at 6 p.m. in the city council chamber, which is located at the corner of U.S. Highway 90 and Myrtle Street. The date is August 25th.

St Mary Police - 8/25

According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 24 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 33 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Christina M. Randle 24 yoa of 1811 MLK Dr., Jeanerette was arrested on 8-24-2009 at 5:59 am on a warrant for Iberia Parish for Failure to Appear on the charge of Simple Battery. Deputy was called to 248 Edmond Lane in reference a disturbance. Upon Deputy’s arrival a warrants check was conducted with above suspect being placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail and later transferred to Iberia Parish Jail.

Billy Aucoin 34 yoa of 10842 Hwy 182 East, Franklin was arrested on 8-24-2009 at 1:58 pm on a warrant for Criminal Damage to Property. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Steven Broussard 34 yoa of 147 Big Bear Lane, Franklin was arrested on 8-24-2009 at 2:56 pm on a warrant for Criminal Neglect of Family. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Anthony Albert 26 yoa of 1617 Canal St., Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-24-2009 at 5:49 pm on warrants for Aggravated Assault and a Failure to Appear on the charges of Driving Under Suspension and No Drivers License on Person. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $4000.00 bond and was later released.

James L. Percle 28 yoa of 147 Ann St., Berwick was arrested on 8-24-2009 at 7:44 pm on a warrant for Berwick Police Department for Simple Criminal Damage to Property. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when he located above suspect on Field St., and a warrants check was conducted with above suspect being placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail and later transferred to Berwick Police Department.

Kenneth Gregory 23 yoa of 304 Field St, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-24-2009 at 7:49 pm for Resisting an Officer. Deputies were conducting an arrest on Field St., when they were attempting to retrieve arrested subject’s identification from 304 Field St., when they made contact with above suspect. Suspect went into the residence and retrieved identification of Percle and when Deputy went to retrieve the card above suspect became Agitated and began cursing and refusing to release the identification. Above suspect was then placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $1000.00 bond and was later released.

Gersson Salvador Viniegra 24 yoa of 309 Camile Dr., Patterson was arrested on 8-25-2009 at 2:14 am on a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charge of No Seat Belt. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when he located above suspect on Moon Road and Hwy 182. During investigation it was learned of a warrant for suspect’s arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $100.00 cash bond and was later released.

Friday, August 21, 2009

St. Mary Sheriff's Office 8/21

The St. Mary Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force reports the following arrest:

Lorenzo Marks 22 yoa of 330 Sorrell Railroad Row Road, Jeanerette was arrested on 8-20-2009 at 1:34 pm on a warrant for Possession of Cocaine. Agent of the Narcotics Task Force learned that suspect was in the Patterson Police Department Jail on unrelated charges. Suspect was placed under arrest and is being held at the Patterson Police Department Jail with no bond at this time.

The St. Mary Parish Sheriffs' Office Reports these arrests:

According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 24 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 47 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Roman P. Bagley 19 yoa of 302 Carol Road, Apt. # 7, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-20-2009 at 7:24 am on a warrant for Theft. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $500.00 bond and was later released.

On 8-20-2009 at 12:42 pm a Female Juvenile 14 yoa was arrested on the charge of Runaway. Deputy was called to a residence on Hemlock Dr. in Patterson in reference to complainant advising that her juvenile daughter had run away. During investigation information was learned that suspect could be at another juvenile’s residence on Hayes Lane in Patterson. Deputy went to location and located runaway juvenile. Juvenile was placed under arrest, processed and released to guardian pending juvenile court proceedings.

Mark A. Sterling 51 yoa of 4492 Hwy 83, Franklin was arrested on 8-20-2009 at 2:03 pm on a warrant for Domestic Abuse Battery. Deputy received information that above suspect was at Grandwood Apartments Apt. # 26 in Patterson and we held a warrant for his arrest. Suspect was located at the residence, placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $1500.00 bond at this time.

Tiesha R. Carbins 17 yoa of 135 Village Lane, Amelia was arrested on 8-20-2009 at 4:55 pm for Theft by Shoplifting. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference to a shoplifter. Upon Deputy’s arrival store security advised that above suspect was observed concealing clothing items in a purse with a value of $25.92. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Jared P. Duplechin 32 yoa of 716 Teche Road, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-20-2009 at 10:00 pm for DWI and Improper Lane Usage. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when he conducted a traffic stop on Southeast Blvd and Middle Road. Upon Deputy coming into contact with suspect an odor of alcoholic beverage was observed upon his person. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and transported to the Berwick Police Department to run on the Intoxilyzer 5000. Suspect had a test result of .160g%. Suspect was booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Janet C. Hufsteler 46 yoa of 3001 Karen Dr., Morgan City was arrested on 8-21-2009 at 1:53 am for Driving Under Suspension and Failure to Use Signal. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he conducted a traffic stop at Lake Palourde Road and Friendship Alley. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Thursday, August 20, 2009

St. Mary Major Drug Bust

The St. Mary Multi-Jurisdictional Task Force together with the FBI and the state arrested members of a major drug trafficking organization called the Hater Hurterz (pronounced Hurters), after a 21 count indictment by a grand jury.

The bust was part a two and a half year investigation.

Indicted are:

*30 year old Cornelius James Kelly of Patterson, who faces a minimum of 20 years in federal prison;

*42 year old Roderick Wayne Caraway of Houston, who is the uncle of Cornelius Kelly - he faces a minimum of 10 years in prison;

*25 year old Tiffany Nicole Williams of Patterson, who faces 10 years;

*27 year old Kim James Butler, Jr., of Patterson, who faces life in prison;

*33 year old Ty Anthony Williams of Patterson, who faces life in prison;

*20 year old Richard Lamon Cross Jr. of Siracusaville, who faces a minimum of 10 years in prison;

*21 year old Jahmar Kelly of Siracusaville, who faces 10 years in prison.

*32 year old Harold Anthony Holly of Centerville, who faces life in prison.

*21 year old Patrick Ray of Siracusaville, who also faces life in prison.

*29 year old Willie Alfred Jr of Jeanerette, who faces 20 years in prison.

U.S. Attorney Donald Washington states that the drug ring was pushing multiple kilos
on a week to week basis.

Wednesday, August 19, 2009

Homicide In Houma

INCIDENT-HOMICIDE

On 07-18-09 at 8:24pm Houma Police responded to a report of gunfire in the area of Park Avenue near Prince Collins Street.

Upon arrival officers discovered an 18 year-old male victim lying in an empty field suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. He had been shot in the chest area. He was transported to Terrebonne General Medical Center where he died from the injuries he sustained in the shooting. The victim’s name will not be released until family notification.

Houma Police Detectives were called to investigate. The investigation is ongoing as witness information and evidence are still being gathered. The investigation is in its infant stages. However, detectives believe an arrest will be made soon.

If anyone has information regarding this shooting please call Houma Police at 873-6371.

Thursday, August 13, 2009

Countdown to the Morgan City Utility Rate Hike?

by: Howard J. Castay, Jr.
(from the Tri-Parish Times)

A measure to hike utility bills an average of $20 monthly in Morgan City is drawing fire from city officials.

Mayor Tim Matte's proposal, which will be decided at the city council's Aug. 25 meeting, could have residents and business owners digging deeper in their pocketbook beginning Sept. 1 to pay utility bills.

The money, the mayor contends, is needed to offset Morgan City's 9 percent drop in sales tax collections. Funding the city's police and fire departments, utility work crews, retirement and worker's compensation insurance for city employees with the current budget has become a nightmare, Matte said.

At the city council's July 28 meeting, Matte unveiled a proposal to increase utility bills across the board. The measure would cost residential customers, on average, an additional $20 per month, or $240 annually, he said. Businesses could expect to pay double that - $40 monthly or $480 annually, according to the proposal.

In the week since Matte pitched the idea, officials remain split on the move.

Bill Cefalu, the city's director of utilities, said the rate hike on electricity is long overdue. Morgan City last raised electricity rates in the mid-1970s.The mayor's $20 monthly estimate for residential users, however, may be high, according to Cefalu. He predicts the hike will amount to just over 5 percent.

Regardless of the percentage, St. Mary Parish Councilman Kevin Voisin, who represents Morgan City, is adamantly opposed to a hike."I'm against raising utilities, period," he said. "The city's timing of (the proposed hike) with the downturn in the national and local economies couldn't be worse."

Advocating for Morgan City's senior citizen and low-income population, Voisin said a utility hike could create an undue hardship for citizens."Right now, many of our elderly are choosing between eating and buying their medicine," he argued. "Ten, 20 dollars, whatever it is more a month, it's going to put a hardship on them and I'm against that."

Voisin is questioning how city leaders have spent excess sales tax revenue collected since 2005. Across the region, sales tax collections spiked after Hurricane Katrina thrashed the area. "I think the city needs to do some belt tightening," he said.

According to figures provided by Matte, Morgan City's sales tax receipts indicate $3.349 million in revenues were collected in 2006. The figure rose to $3.525 million in 2007, and fell slightly to $3.501 million in 2008. During the first six months of this year, $1.702 million has been collected.

Last year, the city spent $1.717 million on its utility payroll, a significant jump from past years.

Matte said the city paid $1.102 million in 2001. In addition, the city paid UtiliServe Inc. of Monroe $137,000 to read users' electric meters after reliable local workers couldn't be found to do the work.

Matte said the city's budget includes $144,000 for UtiliServe Inc. to do the job this year.Morgan City's utility payroll includes 43 city workers - 10 assigned to administration, 11 in the electric department and 32 in gas, water, wastewater and sewage. The figures include workmen's compensation insurance costs, "which have skyrocketed," Matte said. "We've really been hit hard in this area."The city experienced a $1.39 million loss last year in garbage and sanitation costs. "We're losing money to tipping fees, which keep going up and up," the mayor said.

"The city needs an increase in population or in new economic development projects in order to continue to maintain our current level of service." Raising utility rates, he said, would delay shortening the work week or, even less palatable, laying off city employees. "That would curtail us from providing the best service that we can to our residents," Matte explained.

But Matte's utilities director said the concept is needed "simply because it's long overdue."

According to Cefalu, other electric companies are legally allowed to raise rates as needed.
"We can't according to the city charter," he said. "I think if the city council would have seen the need way back when, they would have realized that there needs to be an annual evaluation of our rates on electricity as well as water and gas. Perhaps, maybe then, we would not be in the shape we're in."

During his tenure as utilities director, Cefalu said his staffers have battled aging vehicles and equipment to do their job. "Some of my work crews are driving trucks that are at least 30 years old," he said. "Our tools and machinery... it's all just old."

Matte concedes that the timing of a rate hike is unfortunate given the current economic climate. "It's never a good time for a rate increase," he admitted. But long-term plans to fight the city's shrinking city utility fund are in short supply.

Raising sales taxes, he said, is not an option. "I've always been opposed to any sales tax increases. The problem is not so much what we're collecting," he said, noting that many residents leave the parish to shop, depriving Morgan City of much-needed sales tax collections.

"We need to get our residents to shop here more," the mayor said. "That would raise our sales tax revenue. So many of our folks live here but work out of the area and, therefore, spend money elsewhere due to convenience."

Since 1951, Morgan City has relied on utility payments to fund city police and fire budgets and pay public work crews. Dr. Charles Russell Brownell, who held the office for 32 years, operated the city's first budget that way.

During his four terms as mayor, this is the first utility rate hike proposed by Matte.

The last time a Morgan City utility was raised was under Tim Tregle's administration in 2003. The city council approved his request to raise water collection rates.

When asked about the across-the-board hike proposed by Matte, Tregle refused comment.Payroll totals during Tregle's administration, however, were far lower, according to sales tax numbers between 2001 and 2004.

In 2001, Morgan City's employee payroll was $1.102 million. It increased each subsequent year: $1.296 million in 2002; $2.375 million in 2003; and $1.501 million in 2004.

The city budget peaked during Tregle's last year in office at $2.310 million. When Matte was elected in 2005, employee payroll was $1.597 million.

It climbed to $1.679 million in 2006; $1.654 million in 2007; and $1.717 million last year.

Prior to Tregle's term, Morgan City last approved a garbage rate hike in the late 1980s during Mayor Cederic Lafleur's term.

A longtime proponent of government consolidation, Lafleur said in a previous interview with the Tri-Parish Times that economic development will determine Morgan City's fate.

By consolidating with St. Mary Parish's government, Lafleur said Morgan City could better position itself to survive in the long haul."We've got to consolidate with the other two cities on the east end of the parish and, maybe, with the two cities on the west end as well," he said.

"No one wants to hear this."Government consolidation," he added, "look at what it has done for Terrebonne."Because of land availability, Houma quickly developed into a regional shopping mecca.

"No one here (in Morgan City) wants to give up their property and no one in other cities - Berwick and Patterson - wants to give up their area to a consolidated government," LaFleur explained.

"So what do you do?" he asked. "Houma works because it is at a crossroads," he said. "Thibodaux works because of Nicholls and the hospital."

Matte understands LaFleur's reasoning. Economic development, he agreed, is critical to offset dropping sales tax collections."I think the other cities don't want to discuss this simply because they feel their identity would be lost," he said. "Also, people might see that as a take-over."

St. Mary Sheriff's Office 8/13

According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 24 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 43 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Jeffery J. Green 21 yoa of 109 Edwards Lane, Jeanerette was arrested on 8-12-2009 at 10:28 am on warrants for Simple Robbery, Carjacking and Simple Battery. Arrest stems from a May 9-2009 incident were a victim was beat up and robed of cash and his vehicle at Landry’s Truck Stop parking lot. Information was gathered that suspect was at 155 Glenn and Becky Lane in Sorrell. Suspect was located in the residence hiding in a cabinet. Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $75,000.00 bond at this time.

Lance M. Justillien 47 yoa of 122 Marin Lane, Patterson was arrested on 8-12-2009 at 1:45 pm on a warrant for Simple Battery. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest on warrants and booked into the parish jail with a $500.00 bond and was later released.

Tamika Jackson 34 yoa of 306 Martin Luther King Blvd., Franklin was arrested on 8-12-2009 at 9:20 pm for Theft by Shoplifting, Simple Battery and a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charge of Theft. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference a shoplifter. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from store security that above suspect was observed concealing items in her purse and when security attempted to stop suspect she pushed security and ran from the store with the security officer grabbing her purse and retrieving the items. Deputy attempted to locate suspect but to no avail. Suspect later turned herself into the Sheriff’s Office after learning that Deputy was looking for her. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Harris J. Swan 42 yoa of 522 Clark Road, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-12-2009 at 8:44 pm on a warrant for Issuing Worthless Checks. Deputy was patrolling the Berwick area and conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 90. During investigation it was learned of a warrant for suspect’s arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Audra Hebert 39 yoa of 118 Charles Lane, Baldwin was arrested on 8-12-2009 at 9:41 pm on a warrant for Disturbing the Peace. Deputy was called to Charles Lane in reference to a suspicious vehicle. During investigation Deputy came into contact with above subject and learned of a warrant for her arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Allie Arcemont 18 yoa of 3229 Hwy 70, Pierre Part, La. and Colette Breaux 18 yoa of 115 Mike St., Pierre Part, La. were arrested on 8-12-2009 at 10:59 pm for Theft by Shoplifting. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou vista in reference to shoplifters. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from store security that above suspects were observed concealing items in their purses. After investigation suspects were placed under arrest and issued summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Preston C. Landry Jr. 48 yoa of 6553 Hwy 87, Charenton was arrested on 8-13-2009 at 1:04 am for DWI and Careless Operation. Deputy was called to Katy Bridge Approach Road in reference to an accident. Upon Deputy’s arrival contact was made with above suspect and an odor of alcoholic beverage was observed upon his person. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and transported to Franklin Police Department to run on the Intoxilizer 5000. Suspect had a test result of .085g%. Suspect was booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

St. Mary Sheriff's Office 8/11

The St. Mary Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force reports the following arrest:

Kevin Favors 43 yoa of 3118 Sixth St., Berwick was arrested on 8-11-2009 at 5:45 pm for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute, Possession of a Firearm in the Presence of CDS, Keeping a Disorderly Place and Violation of Drug Free Zone (Church). Agents of the Narcotics Task Force executed a search warrant at 3118 Sixth St. in Berwick. Upon a search of the premises Agents located suspected crack cocaine in a shed on the property, $1500.00 in U.S. Currency in a bedroom, a Hand gun on a table in the Living Room. Agents also located a small amount of cocaine on the seat of suspect’s vehicle. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 24 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 33 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Juliet N. Druilhet 24 yoa of 140 Bodin Road, Franklin was arrested on 8-11-2009 at 9:00 am on a warrant for Violation of a Protective Order. Suspect turned herself into the Sheriff’s Office after learning of a warrant for her arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Fred L. Williams 21 yoa of 635 Eighth St., Franklin was arrested on 8-11-2009 at 9:30 am on warrants for Failure to Appear on the charge of Driving Under Suspension and Failure to Appear on the charge of Theft. Suspect was located in the courthouse, placed under arrest on warrants and booked into the parish jail with a $2000.00 bond and was later released.

Jereith Jamal Narcisse Callery 22 yoa of 110 Isabella St., Franklin was arrested on 8-11-2009 at 11:19 pm on warrants for Failure to Appear on the charges of Stop Sign Violation and No Drivers License, Three warrants for Failure to Appear for Revocation Hearing for Drug Court and was additionally charged with Obstruction of Justice and Resisting an Officer. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he conducted an investigative stop on suspect walking on Hwy 182 near James St. Upon Deputy making contact with suspect he gave the name Jamal Narcisse, a warrants check was conducted with suspect being placed under arrest for Failure to Appear on traffic violations. Upon Suspect being booked into the parish jail it was learned that suspect had given a false name and had three other warrants for drug court. Suspect was booked into the parish jail on above charges with no bond at this time.

Tuesday, August 11, 2009

St. Mary Sheriffs' Office 8/11/09

The St. Mary Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force reports the following arrest:

Blaine Gros 38 yoa of 514 Main Project Road, Schriever, La. was arrested on 8-10-2009 at 5:34 pm for Possession of Cocaine and a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charge of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Agents of the Narcotics Task Force were patrolling the Siracusa area, when they conducted an investigative stop on suspect walking down James St… During investigation a search of suspect’s person was conducted with Agents locating a rock of crack cocaine in a cigarette pack on suspect’s person. Suspect was placed under arrest on above charges and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.



According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 24 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 44 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Brandy Gray 24 yoa of 303 BDC Lane, Franklin and Candy Hebert 26 yoa of 220 Universe St., Bayou Vista were arrested on 8-10-2009 at 9:59 am for Disturbing the Peace by Fighting. Deputy was called to Plantation Inn in Bayou Vista in reference to a battery. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from suspect Candy Hebert that she and suspect were arguing when suspect pushed her down. Upon Deputy locating Brandy Gray it was learned from her that she and Hebert were arguing when suspect scratched her so she pushed her away. After investigation both suspect’s were placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $250.00 bond and were later released.

Denise Mason 33 yoa of 1156 River Road, Berwick was arrested on 8-10-2009 at 12:09 pm for Theft by Shoplifting. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference to a shoplifter. Upon Deputy’s arrival Wal-mart security advised that above suspect was observed concealing items in her purse. Value of Item’s taken were $32.72. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Lowanda D. Ruffin 24 yoa of 2707 Shaw St. Apt. # 16, Morgan City was arrested on 8-10-2009 at 4:00 pm for Theft. Arrest stems from an investigation into above suspect an employee of Wal-mart that was observed on surveillance cameras allowing store employees and customers to get items by under ringing the merchandise. After investigation above suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $1500.00 bond and was later released.

Michael P. Lovell 41 yoa of 109 Stacy St., Morgan City was arrested on 8-10-2009 at 11:07 pm on a warrant for Issuing Worthless Checks. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he came into contact with above suspect. During investigation it was learned of a warrant for his arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Rene Villarreal 39 yoa of 1014 Hwy 182 East, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-10-2009 at 11:29 pm for Disturbing the Peace Intoxicated and Resisting an Officer. Deputy was called to above location in reference to a disturbance. Upon Deputy’s arrival above suspect was observed yelling and causing a disturbance with another subject on the front porch. Upon Deputy attempting to speak with subjects above suspect continued to yell and cause a disturbance. Suspect was placed under arrest and transported to the parish jail. While Deputy attempted to get booking information from suspect he refused to cooperate and was additionally charged. Suspect was booked into the parish jail with a $1250.00 bond at this time.

Clay Guillory 32 yoa of 5336 Hwy 182, Patterson was arrested on 8-11-2009 at 2:47 am for Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he conducted an investigative stop on Friendship Alley and Lake Palourde Road on two subjects standing on the corner. Upon Deputy making contact one of the suspects fled on foot. Above suspect was detained and upon Deputy conducted a pat down of suspects person drug paraphernalia was located. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Monday, August 10, 2009

St. Mary Sheriffs' Office - 8/10/09

Dennis J. Bordelon 50 yoa of 376 Verdun Lane, Verdunville was arrested on 8-7-2009 at 11:49 am on a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charge of Speeding and Open Alcoholic Container. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest on warrant and booked into the parish jail with a $1500.00 bond and was later released.

Joseph P. Shifflett 22 yoa of 7719 Hwy 182, Morgan City was arrested on 8-7-2009 at 12:36 pm on a warrant for East Baton Rouge Parish for Theft. Suspect was located at above address, placed under arrest on warrant and booked into the parish jail awaiting transfer to East Baton Rouge Parish.

Marketa Jones 24 yoa of 1120 Grace St., Morgan City was arrested on 8-7-2009 at 2:47 pm for Theft. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference to an employee theft. Upon Deputy’s arrival Wal-mart security advised that above suspect was observed purchasing merchandise at the register by being under charged. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

On 8-7-2009 at 5:35 pm a Juvenile Male 10 yoa of Bayou Vista was arrested for Theft by Shoplifting. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference to a shoplifter. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from Wal-mart security that above juvenile was observed taking a video game off the shelf and concealing it in his pants pocket. Value of item take was $19.96. Juvenile was placed under arrest, processed and released to guardian pending juvenile court proceedings.

Daniel R. Archangel 44 yoa of 431 St. Peter St., Jeanerette and Willie C. Lumpkin 30 yoa were arrested on 8-7-2009 at 7:21 pm with Archangel being arrested on a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charges of Switched License Plate, Driving Under Suspension and Expired Inspection Sticker and Lumpkin being arrested on warrants for Failure to Appear on the charge of Expired Inspection Sticker and Failure to Appear on the charges of Speeding and No Drivers License. Deputy was called to above location in reference a disturbance. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned of warrants for the above suspect’s arrest. Suspect’s were placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with Archangel having no bond at this time and Lumpkin having a $562.00 cash bond and was later released.

Kristie L. Blanchard 31 yoa of 11675 Greenwood Spring Ridge Road, Shreveport,La. was arrested on 8-7-2009 at 8:02 pm on a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charges of Illegal Possession of Stolen Things, Expired Drivers License and Authorized Use of a Movable. Deputy was patrolling Hwy 182 in the Amelia area, when he conducted a traffic stop on suspect vehicle for a burnt headlight. During investigation it was learned of a warrant for suspect’s arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $2500.00 bond at this time.

Michael Maturin 18 yoa of 234 Jones Road # 1, Jeanerette was arrested on 8-7-2009 at 10:45 pm for Theft. Suspect turned himself into the Sheriff’s Office in reference to the theft of a Sim card from a computer. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Marshall D. Spires 42 yoa of 1212 Clements Lane, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-8-2009 at 3:15 am for Loud Music from a Vehicle Prohibited. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when he observed suspect vehicle sitting in a parking lot on Field St. playing loud music. Deputy conducted a stop and after investigation, placed suspect under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Dawn Mayon 25 yoa of 180 Elaine St., Morgan City was arrested on 8-8-2009 at 7:22 pm for Domestic Abuse Battery, Criminal Damage to Property and Disturbing the Peace Intoxicated. Deputy was called to 621 Teche Road in Bayou Vista in reference to a disturbance. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from complainant and witness that complainant and suspect were arguing when suspect began hitting complainant and broke the laptop of complainant. When advised that complainant was calling the police suspect left the residence and fled into the cane field. After leaving the residence Deputy was called back to the residence advising suspect had returned. Upon Deputy’s arrival suspect was located and after investigation, placed her under arrest and booked her into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Junius Spot Jr. 48 yoa of 117 Martin Lane, Amelia was arrested on 8-8-2009 at 9:52 pm for DWI, No Drivers License, Speeding and No Insurance. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he observed suspect vehicle speeding on Hwy 182 and conducted a traffic stop. Upon making contact with suspect an odor of alcoholic beverage was observed upon his person. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and transported to Berwick Police Department to run on the Intoxilyzer 5000. Suspect had a test result of .164g%. Suspect was booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Valerie Anderson 50 yoa of 117 Martin Lane, Amelia and Quincy Deboue 29 yoa were arrested on 8-8-2009 at 10:00 pm for Open Alcoholic Container in a Motor Vehicle. Deputy had conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 182 in the Amelia area, and while conducting investigation the two suspect’s passengers in the vehicle both had open alcoholic beverages. Both suspects were placed under arrest and issued summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Roderick Burgess 36 yoa of 434 Lagonda St., Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-9-2009 at 9:02 am on a warrant for Issuing Worthless Checks. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009,

Mark Landry 49 yoa of 214 Bowman St., Morgan City was arrested on 8-9-2009 at 10:14 am on a warrant for Issuing Worthless Checks. Suspect was located at his residence, placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Kathy E. Schaub 28 yoa of 509 General McArthur Dr., Morgan City was arrested on 8-9-2009 at 10:34 am on warrants for Failure to Appear on the charge of Rolling Road Block Prohibited and Failure to Appear on the charges of Expired License Plate, Expired Inspection Sticker and Driving Under Suspension. Suspect was located at her residence, placed under arrest on warrants and booked into the parish jail with a $5268.50 bond and was later released.

Latonia S. Ausama 30 yoa of 239 Robin St., Morgan City was arrested on 8-9-2009 at 1:50 pm on a warrant for Issuing Worthless Checks. Suspect was located at her residence, placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Chris L. Haynes 26 yoa of 103 Morrin St., Patterson was arrested on 8-9-2009 at 9:19 pm on a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charges of Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, DWI, Careless Operation and Expired Inspection Sticker. Deputy was called to above location in reference to a complaint, during investigation it was learned of a warrant for above suspect’s arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $13,000.00 bond and was later released.

Randall J. Driskill 40 yoa of 911 Teche Road, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-9-2009 at 9:20 pm for DWI 2nd and Speeding. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area when he conducted a traffic stop on above suspect vehicle speeding. Upon Deputy coming into contact with suspect an odor of alcoholic beverage was observed upon his person. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and transported to Berwick Police Department to run on the Intoxilyzer 5000. Suspect had a test result of .250g%. Suspect was booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Friday, August 7, 2009

St. Mary Sheriff's Office 8/7

Date: August 7, 2009

The St. Mary Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force reports the following arrest:

Courtland Francois 18 yoa of 1015 Belleview St. Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-6-2009 at 8:46 pm for Possession of Marijuana with Intent to Distribute and Possession of CDS in the Presence of a Juvenile. Agents of the Narcotics Task Force were patrolling Levee Road in Morgan City when they observed suspect vehicle to have a burnt brake light and conducted a traffic stop on Elm St. During investigation consent to search vehicle was obtained with Agents located two bags of marijuana. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest on above charges and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Sheriff David Naquin reports these arrests:

Wilton Crappell 49 yoa of 916 Hwy 182, Bayou Vista was arrested on 8-6-2009 at 11:15 am for Driving Under Suspension and Stop Sign Violation. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when he conducted a traffic stop on Venus and Middle Road. During investigation it was also learned that suspect was driving under suspension. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Brett Sanders 18 yoa, Chase Sanders 18 yoa both of 428 Lagonda Road, Bayou Vista and Chase Rebardi 17 yoa of 3190 Fourth St., Berwick were arrested on 8-6-2009 at 2:54 pm for Disturbing the Peace by Fighting with Brett Sanders also being charged with Criminal Damage to Property. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when he was flagged down by a subject stating subject’s area fighting in the front yard at 428 Lagonda Road. Upon Deputy’s arrival several subjects were located on the side of residence with a subject being held on the ground. Upon Deputy conducting investigation it was learned that the two brothers were fighting when Rebardi became involved. After investigation above suspects were placed under arrest. While Brett Sanders was in the Deputy’s unit he began hitting the window causing damage to it and was additionally charged. Suspects were booked into the parish jail with Brett Sanders having a $500.00 bond and Chase Sanders and Chase Rebardi having a $250.00 bond, all were later released.

Tajh J. Guilbeau 18 yoa of 237 Easy St., Franklin was arrested on 8-6-2009 at 5:38 pm for Aggravated Obstruction of a Highway of Commerce, Aggravated Flight from an Officer, Reckless Operation, Resisting an Officer by Flight, Off Road Vehicle Prohibited on a Roadway and Failure to Stop at a Stop Sign. Deputy was called to Easy St in Franklin in reference four wheelers on the roadway. Upon Deputy’s arrival, four wheeler was riding in the roadway. Deputy attempted to conduct a traffic stop with suspect driving reckless on the roadway and failing to stop at stop sign turning onto Irish Bend Road. Deputy pursued suspect with him driving onto a cane field road. The Four Wheeler broke down and suspect then fled on foot with Deputy giving chase and apprehending suspect. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Thursday, August 6, 2009

ACTION - MORGAN CITY UTILITY RATES

If you disagree with the Morgan City Utility Rate increases, e-mail anyone in the City of Morgan City administration, including your councilmen, by visiting this link
here.


Click here to listen to MAYOR TIM MATTE’S 15 MINUTE PRESENTATION at the City Council Meeting on July 28th!

UPDATE - MC UTILITY RATES ON THE RISE?

MC Utility rates on the rise?
By: Howard J. Castay, Jr.
(from the Tri-Parish Times)

Morgan City residents may have to dig deeper next month to pay their utility bills, if the city council grants Mayor Tim Matte’s wish to approve a utility rate hike.

The increase, according to the mayor’s estimate, could cost a residential customer with an average utility bill, an extra $20 a month, or at least $240 a year, and it could cost a business customer with an average utility bill, an extra $40 a month, or at least $480 a year.

Morgan City uses revenue from its utility payments to fund police and fire budgets, along with public work crews. This practice dates back to Dr. Charles Russell Brownell, who was mayor for 32 years, from the 1951 through 1982.

Matte said he wants to hike up utility rates on electricity, water, gas and garbage collection, because utility funds are contributing less and less to the city budget, yet at the end of 2008, the city had a $1.236 million profit in utilities.

Matte explained his reasons for the rate hikes last Tuesday before the city council. On August 25th, residents and business owners will have an opportunity to weigh in on the issue, before the city council votes on the matter.

But while introducing the ordinances detailing the plans for the increases on electricity, water and gas last week, Matte told the city council, “We will not be pricing ourselves out of the market as far as new residents or businesses are concerned.”

But he said another reason for the utility hikes is that the city is now experiencing dwindling sales tax collections, after experiencing a huge increase in tax collections.

“I can assure you that every day we look at all of our expenditures and it’s not as if we’re continuing to go out and spend. Last fall, our cash position was dangerously low…working capital was also dangerously low, as we had extended hundreds of thousands of dollars for hurricane recovery, and we had to wait to be reimbursed by FEMA…It’s never a good time for a rate increase,” he said.

Matte said these high collection rates have been one reason why the city has been able to postpone a rate hike. “But now, obviously this is not going to happen with what we see going on in the nation’s economy,” he said.

Matte said the last time the city raise rates base rates on electric bills was in the mid-to late 70’s. He said the city raised gas rates in the mid 80’s and water rates in 2003.

Matte offered no plans or suggestions to combat what he said is shrinking effort from the city utility fund, like a instituting a four day work week at city hall. Nor did he bring up plans for personnel lay-offs. He said that over the past couple of years, the city has had to eliminate some programs it could no longer afford, and “we will continue to do that, to make the burdens on the tax payers as little as possible.”

Still, a breakdown of the city’s year end 2008 utility fund budget shows the electrical department with a $987,517 profit, and the gas department with a $325,718 profit department. Mosquito

Control expenses even saw a profit at $23,779.

But, there is a $400,000 jump in personnel expenses, from 2001 to 2008, in the electrical department.

The water department saw a loss of $100,775.
Matte is proposing a 15 percent water increase in 2010 and another 15 percent increase in 2011.
Although the city is making progress toward making improvements in its water quality and distribution system, as it just rebuilt a new clarifier, and has applied for stimulus money to build a new water tower, the mayor said, “It’s imperative that we raise the funds to continue to provide good services, and to avoid things like boil water notices.”

Also, Matte said personnel costs in the water system have risen because the city needs to hire persons who are certified in various issues dealing with clean water. “Years ago, this used to be an entry point for persons who wanted to work for the city. That’s not the case anymore,” he said.

Morgan City resident Sara Kidd was the only citizen to address the council last week, on the proposed utility rate hikes. However, she limited her comments to the garbage rate hike as she expressed concerns about discontinuing curbside trash. Kidd is the sister of Morgan City Councilman Luke Manfre.

Kidd agreed that citizens should pay more for garbage collection, particularly because the $1.08 fee per month is less than a price of a snowball. She said that periodically while travelling en route to work, she has noticed everything from baby strollers to sofas placed on curbs for garbage pickup. “Why do we need to look at these things for days,” she said, commenting that they appear to be unsightly in the city’s neighborhoods.

“This is costing the city a fortune,” as she said the city is paying an annual $525,000 in landfill tipping fees. She also urged the council to stop “babysitting,” residents who rely on the city to collect their debris.

St. Mary Sheriff's Office 8/6

The St. Mary Multi-Jurisdictional Drug Task Force, consisting of St. Mary Sheriff Dept., Morgan City Police Dept., Patterson Police Department Franklin Police Dept., Baldwin Police Dept., Berwick Police Dept., and Chitimacha Police Dept., report the following arrests:

Christopher Duval 26 yoa of 1915 River Road, Berwick La. was arrested on 8-5-2009 at 6:02 pm for Possession of Marijuana. Agents of the Narcotics Task Force were patrolling Hwy 70 in the Morgan City area, when they observed suspect vehicle fail to use turn signal and conducted a traffic stop. During investigation a search of suspect vehicle was conducted with a small amount of marijuana being located in the center console. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Franklin Pearce III 24 yoa of 2143 River Road, Berwick was arrested on 8-5-2009 at 10:16 pm on warrants for Possession of Xanax and Issuing Worthless Checks. Agents were patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when they conducted a traffic stop on Jupiter St… Upon Agents making contact with driver it was learned of warrants for his arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Corey D. Steel 39 yoa of 6818 Hwy 90, Morgan City was arrested on 8-5-2009 at 11:18 pm for Possession of Cocaine. Agents of the Narcotics Task Force were patrolling Eleventh St. in the Morgan City area, when they observed suspect vehicle fail to use signal and conducted a traffic stop. During investigation a search of suspect’s vehicle was conducted with Agents locating crack cocaine on the floor of the vehicle. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 24 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 41 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Lisa Trosclair 33 yoa of # 7, Kane Ridge Loop, Houma, La. and Sanae Marshall 28 yoa of 104 Senator Circle, Houma, La. were arrested on 8-5-2009 at 12:28 pm for Theft by Shoplifting. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference to shoplifters. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from store security that above suspects were observed concealing items in bags and were detained after passing the registers. Suspect had taken items valued at $570.24. After investigation suspects were placed under arrest and released on summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Victoria T. Francis 30 yoa of 1014 Ciro St., Morgan City was arrested on 8-5-2009 at 7:51 pm for Loud Music Prohibited. Deputy was patrolling the Siracusaville area, when he observed suspect vehicle playing loud music and conducted a traffic stop. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Alex W. Horton 20 yoa of 133 Lenny’s Lane, Amelia was arrested on 8-5-2009 at 8:35 pm for Loud Music Prohibited. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he observed suspect vehicle playing loud music and conducted a traffic stop. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Corey M. Stevens 23 yoa of 1915 River Road Lot # 16, Berwick, La. was arrested on 8-5-2009 at 11:41 pm on a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charge of Speeding. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he conducted a traffic stop in the Amelia Belle Casino. During investigation it was learned of a warrant for suspect’s arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $308.50 cash bond at this time.

Rollins J. Anslum 21 yoa of 232 Redwood St., Labadieville, La. was arrested on 8-6-2009 at 2:45 am for DWI 2nd, No Drivers License, Improper Lane Usage and Resisting an Officer. Deputy was patrolling Hwy 182 in the Amelia area, when he observed suspect vehicle cross the center line. Deputy conducted a traffic stop and upon coming into contact with suspect an odor of alcoholic beverage was observed upon his person. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and transported to Berwick Police Department to run on the Intoxilyzer 5000. Suspect refused to take the test and was booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Wednesday, August 5, 2009

ST MARY SHERIFF 8/5

Demetrius Paul 31 yoa of 808 Gabriel St., Patterson, Jerome Brown 26 yoa of 530 Bowman St., Morgan City, Shane Todd 33 yoa of 518 Murphy St., Patterson, Kilo White 19 yoa of 404 Williams St., Patterson, Errol Prevot 28 yoa of 315 Cleveland St., Patterson, David Thompson 29 yoa of 403 Verdun Lane, Verdunville, Ceasar Lopez 35 yoa and Tammy Mcilwain 26 yoa both of 2532 Amanda Lane, Patterson were arrested on 8-4-2009 at 8:40 pm for Criminal Trespassing. Deputy was called to Cargill Lane in Calumet in reference to trespassers on complainant’s property. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from complainant that he located four vehicles with several subject fishing on his property. Deputy located suspects and after investigation placed them under arrest and issued summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Monday, August 3, 2009

St Mary Police 8/3/09

According to Sheriff David Naquin during the last 72 hours the Sheriff’s Office responded to 111 complaints and reports the following arrests:

Donovan W. Barrilleaux 19 yoa of 103 Rose Park Lane, Bayou Vista was arrested on 7-31-2009 at 5:20 pm on a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charge of No Seat Belt. Deputy was called to above location in reference a disturbance. During investigation it was learned of a warrant for above suspect’s arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $100.00 cash bond at this time.

Jamie L. Delany 32 yoa of 3500 Division St. Apt 291, Metairie, La. was arrested on 7-31-2009 at 7:37 pm for Speeding and Driving Under Suspension. Deputy was patrolling Hwy 90 in the Franklin area, when he conducted a traffic stop on above suspect. During investigation it was also learned suspect was driving under suspension. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in Court on 10-1-2009.

T.J. Williams III 41 yoa of 114 St. Joseph Lane, Franklin was arrested on 7-31-2009 at 10:22 pm on three warrants for Criminal Neglect of Family. Deputy learned of warrants for above suspect and, a traffic stop was conducted on suspect vehicle on Fourth St. in Franklin. Suspect was placed under arrest on warrants and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Drake Ritter 18 yoa of 212 Shivers St., Patterson, Eddie Gray 17 yoa of 1423 B. Hickory St., Patterson and a Juvenile Male 16 yoa were arrested on 7-31-2009 at 11:19 pm with Ritter being charged with Possession of Marijuana, Possession of CDS in the Presence of a Juvenile and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile, Gray was charged with Possession of Marijuana and Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile, and Juvenile being charged with Possession of Marijuana and Curfew Violation. Deputy was patrolling the Bayou Vista area, when he conducted an investigative stop in the parking lot of Longs Food Mart with several subject in a vehicle. During investigation a search of the vehicle was conducted with two small bags of marijuana being located. After investigation suspects were placed under arrest with Ritter and Gray being booked into the parish jail with no bond and Juvenile being processed and released to guardian pending juvenile court proceedings.

Eder Lopez 29 yoa of 112 Calhoun St., Amelia was arrested on 8-1-2009 at 3:23 am for Possession of Cocaine and a warrant for Failure to Appear on the charges of Disturbing the Peace and Resisting an Officer. Deputy was patrolling the Amelia area, when he conducted a traffic stop for Turn Signal Required. Suspect vehicle was stopped at Bride side R. V. Park in Amelia. While Deputies were conducting an investigation with driver, above suspect a passenger in the vehicle was observed attempting to hide a plastic bag containing cocaine. Suspect was removed from vehicle and the bag of cocaine was recovered. After investigation suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail on above charges with no bond at this time.

Derrick J. Riley 20 yoa of 306 Laura St. # 2, Morgan City was arrested on 8-1-2009 at 2:18 pm for Loud Music Prohibited and Driving Under Suspension. Deputy was in the Wal-mart parking lot when he observed suspect vehicle traveling through the parking lot playing loud music. Suspect vehicle was stopped and during investigation it was also learned that suspect was driving under suspension. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Jeremie Paul 19 yoa of 303 Egle St., Morgan City was arrested on 8-2-2009 at 2:15 pm for Criminal Trespass and Remaining Where Forbidden. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference to suspect being in the store after being banned. Suspect was located and after investigation was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with a $1500.00 bond at this time.

On 8-2-2009 at 3:48 pm a Female Juvenile 13 yoa was arrested for Theft by Shoplifting. Deputy was called to Wal-mart in Bayou Vista in reference to a Juvenile shoplifter. Upon deputy’s arrival it was learned from store security that juvenile was observed concealing clothing items in a purse. Items taken had a value of $115.11. After investigation juvenile was placed under arrest, processed and released to guardian pending juvenile court proceedings.

Brandy M. Williams 23 yoa of 716 Duval St., Amelia was arrested on 8-2-2009 at 8:05 pm on warrants for three counts of Issuing Worthless Checks. Deputy was patrolling Hwy 90 in the Bayou Vista area, when he conducted a traffic stop. During investigation it was learned of warrants for above suspect’s arrest. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Phillip J. Encalade 25 yoa of 201 Trevino St. # 6, Berwick was arrested on 8-2-2009 at 8:50 pm for Loud Music Prohibited and Driving Under Suspension. Deputy was parked in the Parking lot of the Bayou Vista Central Park when he observed suspect vehicle pass playing loud music. Deputy conducted a traffic stop and during investigation learned suspect was also driving under suspension. Suspect was placed under arrest and issued a summons to appear in court on 11-2-2009.

Kevin Lagrange 47 yoa of 2122 Lagrange Robicheaux Road, Franklin was arrested on 8-2-2009 at 9:35 pm for Domestic Abuse Battery. Deputy was called to above location in reference a disturbance. Upon Deputy’s arrival it was learned from victim that she and her boyfriend had and argument when suspect began hitting her. Suspect was located and after investigation suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time.

Reginald Charles 17 yoa of 422 Sixth St., Franklin and a Juvenile Male 15 yoa were arrested on 8-2-2009 at 10:40 pm with Charles being arrested for Possession of Marijuana, Contributing to the Delinquency of a Juvenile, Obstruction of Justice and Resisting an Officer and Juvenile being charged with Curfew Violation. Deputy was patrolling the Franklin area, when he observed the two suspects running from between a building. Deputy conducted an investigative stop on the subjects. While Deputy was attempting to conduct a pat down on Charles he kept pulling his right side of his body away from Deputy attempting to hide something. Deputy was finally able to conduct a pat down for weapons and detained suspect in his unit awaiting assistance of other units. Upon arrival of other units Deputy went to speak with Charles and observed him bending over to his right side with a plastic bag containing marijuana and suspect was eating the marijuana. Suspect was removed from unit and plastic bag with a small amount of marijuana was recovered. After investigation Suspect was placed under arrest and booked into the parish jail with no bond at this time. Juvenile was placed under arrest for curfew violation, processed and released to guardian pending juvenile court proceedings.

Sunday, August 2, 2009

GHEENS CRASH KILLS ONE, INJURES ANOTHER

TROOP C- NEWS RELEASE For Immediate ReleaseDate: August 2, 2009

A single vehicle crash in the community of Gheens killed a Lockport man and injured a 16 year old.

Jacob Chaisson (W/M, 20, of Lockport, LA) was driving a 2003 Buick Rendezvous east on LA 654 when his vehicle left the road to the right and overturned several times. He and his passenger (16 year old female from Raceland, LA) were not wearing their seat belts and were ejected from the vehicle. The vehicle and ejected occupants came to rest off the road in a cane field.

Chaisson received critical injuries and was transported to Ochsner St. Anne General Hospital by Acadian Ambulance. Chaisson died later at the hospital. Arabie received moderate injuries and was transported to Terrebonne General by Acadian Ambulance.

Alcohol is suspected to be a factor in the crash. Blood was drawn from Chaisson and will be sent to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. Charges in the crash are pending.

Impairment is suspected to be a factor in the crash and blood drawn will be sent to the Louisiana State Police Crime Lab for analysis. This crash occurred on Sunday, August 02, 2009 at approximately 4:40 AM. Troopers are continuing their investigation.