District Attorney - News Releases, 22nd Judicial District, Louisiana

Walter P. Reed
District Attorney

22nd Judicial District
News Releases

September 1, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR SEX CHARGE

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Jessie Shelton, 44 of Madisonville, was sentenced by 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia Tuesday, August 31, 2010, to 20 years in prison. Shelton pled guilty as charged to aggravated incest on August 16, 2010. Assistant District Attorneys Julie Knight and Joey Oubre were in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

The victim and several family members attended the sentencing with the victim reading a compelling impact statement in which she stated that she had moved from “victim to survivor.”

Shelton was arrested in March 2010 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the adult female victim reported the sexual abuse. The victim advised that the sexual abuse had happened over the years from the time she was a minor until she was 18 years old. The victim delayed in reporting the crimes due to fear of the defendant.

Judge Garcia sentenced Shelton to 20 years in prison with 1 year suspended. Judge Garcia further ordered Shelton to never have any contact of any kind with the victim and to serve 5 years of probation once he is released from prison. Aggravated incest is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 5 nor more than 20 years.

August 31, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN GUILTY OF SEX CRIMES

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Robert Friday, 48 of Pearl River, was found guilty as charged of aggravated rape, attempted forcible rape and three counts of molestation of a juvenile. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 2 hours Thursday, August 26, 2010, before returning the guilty verdicts. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato presided over the trial with the states case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall.

Friday was arrested in January 2008 by the Slidell Police Department after the rape was reported by the minor male victim to a social worker. An adult female victim came forward after the rape charge against Friday was made public and Friday was charge with her attempted rape and molestation while she was a juvenile in 1996.

Judge Coady will sentence Straub on September 16, 2010. Whoever commits aggravated rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for life.

August 31, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN GUILTY OF SEX CRIME

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Tony Keith Straub, Jr., 23 of Slidell, was found guilty as charged of aggravated rape on Tuesday, August 24, 2010. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 2 ½ hours before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 2 day trial with the states case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew, Jr.

Straub was arrested in July 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the sexual abuse was reported by the minor female victim. Straub was escorting the victim around the Slidell area selling candy for her school. Straub led her into some woods where the rape occurred.

Judge Coady will sentence Straub on September 16, 2010. Whoever commits aggravated rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for life.

August 19, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ATTEMPTED MURDER

---SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Richard Mccullough, 58 of Slidell, to attempted second degree murder. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady immediately sentenced Mccullough to 30 years in prison. Assistant District Attorneys Jason Cuccia and Scott Gardner were in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Mccullough was arrested in January 2009 after an adult female victim was shot three times. Mccullough had asked the victim to follow him in her car to take his truck to be repaired. Along the way Mccullough stopped his truck and walked back to the victim’s car and shot her. The victim was able to drive away and call police who found her after she wrecked her car.

Whoever commits attempted second degree murder shall be imprisoned for not less than 10 nor more than 50 years.

August 19, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED TO LONG PRISON TERM

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that 22^nd Judicial District William Crain has sentenced Charles Lee, 45 of Slidell, to 20 years in prison as a career criminal. A St. Tammany Parish Jury found Lee guilty as charged of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling and aggravated battery on Thursday, April 29^th, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Lee was arrested in July 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after forcing his way into a Slidell area home. Lee hit the renter’s boyfriend with a stick before fleeing. A Deputy Sheriff and his canine named Gaston followed the defendant’s scent until he was captured nearby.

Lee has previous convictions for possession of cocaine in 2006, 2005, and 2002.

Whoever commits the crime of unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling shall be imprisoned for not more than 6 years. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated battery shall be imprisoned for not more than 10 years.

August 17, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

3 MEN SENTENCED TO PRISON

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain has sentenced Robert Jenkins to 99 years in prison, William Lauga to 65 years in prison, and Skyler Jenkins to 20 years in prison. The three men were sentenced Monday, August 16, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s cases.

Robert Jenkins, 33 of Slidell, was arrested in June 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a man’s wallet and cell phone was stolen. The victim followed Jenkins after the robbery and called police. A K-9 dog was able to locate the victim’s stolen cell phone at the scene where Jenkins was arrested. Jenkins was found guilty as charged of armed robbery on Tuesday, April 6, 2010.

Lauga, 34 of South Beach, Florida, was arrested in Florida in August 2009 by the U.S. Marshall’s service on a warrant from the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. Deputies issued the nationwide warrant for Lauga’s arrest after he robbed a local Slidell bartender at gunpoint in January 2009. Lauga had been living in St. Bernard Parish prior to the robbery and then fled to Florida. Lauga was found guilty as charge of armed robbery on Wednesday, April 28, 2010.

Skyler Jenkins, 20 of Kokomo, Mississippi, was arrested in November 2009 by the Mandeville Police Department after a minor female victim reported to the Children’s Advocacy Center that she was sexually abused by Jenkins. The victim was telling her story about being sexually abused by someone else in another parish when she explained that Jenkins had sexually abused her in June 2009. Jenkins was found guilty as charged of sexual battery and contributing to the delinquency of a juvenile on Tuesday, May 25, 2010.

Whoever commits armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than 10 nor more than 99 years. Whoever commits sexual battery shall be imprisoned for not more than 10 years. Whoever commits contributing to delinquency of a juvenile while involved in the commission of another felony shall be imprisoned for not less than 2 nor more than 10 years.

August 3, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED FOR SEX CRIME

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that 22^nd Judicial Judge Reginald Badeaux sentenced Daniel Rush, Jr., 34 of Slidell, to 25 years in prison. Rush was convicted of aggravated incest April 22, 2010 by a 12 member St. Tammany Jury. Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Rush was arrested in September 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the sexual abuse was reported. The minor female victim was asleep when Rush began sexually abusing her. The victim told her friend’s mom who called police.

Whoever commits the crime of aggravated incest shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than twenty-five years nor more than life. At least twenty-five years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

August 3, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

HIGH SCHOOL SENIOR ELECTED DISTRICT ATTORNEY

AT LOUISIANA BOYS STATE

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Myles Brumfield of Slidell has been elected District Attorney at the annual Boys State program held this summer in Baton Rouge. DA Reed invited Brumfield for a visit on Monday afternoon August 2^nd, 2010, to meet and congratulate him on his election. Brumfield told DA Reed that he hoped to attend LSU and then law school and maybe one day be elected the District Attorney. Brumfield’s father, Jerry, accompanied Myles during the visit and subsequent tour of the District Attorney’s Office in Covington.

(Myles Brumfield can be reached for interview at 649-2080)

August 2, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SECOND DEGREE MURDER

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Amy Thomas, 24 of Bogalusa, pled guilty to second degree murder on Tuesday, July 20, 2010. Thomas was initially charged with first degree murder but pled guilty to second degree to avoid the death penalty. Judge Raymond Childress accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Thomas to life in prison. Assistant District Attorneys Lewis Murray and Scott Gardner were in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Thomas was arrested in March 2008 by the Bogalusa Police Department after the minor female victim died at a New Orleans hospital. Thomas had kept the child for her mother and physically abused it. The child died of blunt force trauma.

Second degree murder is punishable by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

August 2, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEX CRIME

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Donald Thieke, 43 of Mandeville, has pled guilty as charged to aggravated incest on Tuesday, July 13^th, 2010. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Thieke to 15 years in prison. The victim gave a victim impact statement to the court prior to sentencing. Assistant District Attorney Ken Dohre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Thieke was arrested in December 2007 by the Mandeville Police Department after the minor female victim told a friend about the sexual abuse. This incidence of sexual abuse occurred from June through December 2007 when the victim was 13 years old. The friend told the school counselor and the police were notified.

Whoever commits the crime of aggravated incest shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor for not less than five nor more than twenty years.

June 29, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

WOMAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CRIMES

FRANKLINTON-- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Terri Cox, 27 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated rape and molestation of a juvenile. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated 3 hours Friday evening, June 25, 2010, before returning the guilty verdicts. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the four day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Jay Adair.

Cox was arrested in October 2007 by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office after the minor female victim reported the sexual abuse to her grandmother. The sexual abuse occurred when the victim was 5 years old in 2006. The victim was able to testify at the trial by closed circuit television from another location.

Judge Childress will sentence Cox on July 8, 2010. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated rape shall be imprisoned for life at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of molestation of a juvenile under the age of 13 shall be imprisoned for not less than 25 nor more than 99 years with at least 25 years being served without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

June 25, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF THREE CHARGES

---COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Eric Bolton, 39 of Lafayette, has been found guilty as charged of second degree robbery and second degree kidnapping. Bolton was also found guilty of attempted manslaughter which was originally charged as attempted second degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for five hours Wednesday evening June 23, 2010, before returning the guilty verdicts. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight.

Bolton was arrested in November 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after he had beaten, tied up and robbed the female victim at her Covington home. Bolton knew the victim and fled in her car. The victim was able to free herself and call police. Bolton was arrested three days later in Baton Rouge.

A habitual offender hearing will be held August 2, 2010. Bolton could face life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Bolton has prior convictions for simple escape in 2004, simple kidnapping in 1996, and first degree robbery and purse snatching in 1993. Whoever commits second degree robbery shall be imprisoned for not less than 3 nor more than 40 years. Whoever commits second degree kidnapping shall be imprisoned for not less than 5 nor more than 40 years. Whoever commits attempted manslaughter shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than twenty years.

June 21, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED FOR ARMED ROBBERY

------

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Joshua Johnson, 26 of Loranger, has been sentenced to 35 years in prison for armed robbery. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated an hour and a half Wednesday evening, May 5^th, 2010 before returning the guilty verdict. 22^ndJudicial District Judge Allison Penzato presided over the 2 day trial with Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall presenting the State’s case.

Johnson was arrested in September 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after a man was robbed at gunpoint at a local Slidell motel. Johnson burst into the victim’s room early in the morning and pistol whipped him while taking his wallet, cash, cell phone, and watch. Johnson is also awaiting trial for two more robberies he allegedly committed before being arrested by Deputies later that day.

Judge Penzato sentenced Johnson to the 35 years in prison on Monday, June 21, 2010. Johnson could face life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Johnson has two prior drug convictions in Orleans Parish in 2005. Armed robbery is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 10 nor more than 99 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

June 18, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED BATTERY

---COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Marvin Davis, 45 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated battery. A 6 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated on Wednesday evening, June 16, 2010, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^ndJudicial District Judge William Knight presided over the 1day trial with Assistant District Attorney Ken Dohre presenting the State’s case.

Davis was arrested in January 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the adult female victim reported being beaten. Davis and the victim argued over a cell phone in front of the victim’s children which resulted in Davis punching the victim several times with a closed fist. Davis also hit the victim with a kitchen container that lacerated her head.

Judge Knight will sentence Davis July 19, 2010. Davis could face life in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Davis has prior convictions all in Orleans Parish for carnal knowledge of a juvenile in 2001, possession of cocaine in 1999, 1995, and 1989, convicted felon in possession of a firearm in 1989 and 1993, and possession with intent to distribute cocaine in 1989. Aggravated battery is punishable by imprisonment with or without hard labor for not more than 10 years.

June 14, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED TO VOYERISM

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of James Falvey IV, 52 of Pearl River, to video voyeurism. 22^nd Judicial District Court Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea Monday, June 14, 2010, and sentenced Falvey to 5 years in prison. Assistant District Attorney Joey Oubre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Falvey was arrested in February 2010 by the Slidell Police Department after he was reported taking a picture in the female restroom at a local store. The minor female victim told her mother immediately that a man had just taken a picture of her while she was in the bathroom. The store video camera identified Falvey as he entered and exited the lady’s restroom.

Judge Garcia also ordered Falvey to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. Video voyeurism is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 2 nor more than 10 years in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

June 9, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

ESCAPEES PLEAD GUILTY AS CHARGED

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Timothy Murray, 30, Gary Slaydon, Jr., 28, and Jason Gainey, 28, have all pled guilty as charged to simple escape and introduction of contraband into a prison . Murray also pled guilty to aggravated burglary. Murray and Slaydon pled guilty on Monday, June 1, 2010 and Gainey pled guilty on Tuesday, June 2, 2010. 22^ndJudicial District Judge Richard Swartz sentenced Murray and Slaydon to 20 years in prison and Gainey to 10 years in prison. Judge Swartz ordered the sentences to be served in addition to the sentences the defendants are now serving. Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Slaydon and Gainey were arrested on June 19, 2009, and Murray on June 21, 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after escaping from the St. Tammany Parish Jail. The inmates escaped from the jail by using a hacksaw secretly delivered during visitation. Slaydon and Gainey were captured near the jail and Murray was captured after he had broken into a nearby mobile home and armed himself with a knife.

Slaydon is currently serving 67 years in prison for a 2009 conviction for attempted second degree murder, armed robbery and aggravated burglary. Gainey is currently serving 99 years in prison for a 2008 conviction for armed robbery. Murray is awaiting trial on first degree murder charges.

June 3, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED TO LONG PRISON TERM

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kelton Torregano, 34 of Slidell, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for forcible rape and second degree battery. A 12 member St. Tammany Jury deliberated 3 1/2 hours Wednesday, December 2, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady. The state’s case was prepared and presented by Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew, Jr. in the 3 day trial.

Torregano was arrested in January 2009 by the Slidell Police Department after he beat and raped an adult female victim. Torregano and the victim had an argument which resulted in the physical and sexual abuse. The victim was able to escape to a family member’s home after the defendant fell asleep. Family members took the victim to the hospital and the police were notified.

Judge Coady sentenced Torregano as a career criminal after today’s habitual offender hearing. Torregano was ordered to serve twenty years at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Torregano has previous convictions in Georgia in July 1999 for burglary, stalking, false imprisonment, aggravated assault with a firearm, aggravated assault on a police officer, and simple battery. Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

May 28, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

CAREER CRIMINAL COULD BE SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that James Donaldson, 37 of Slidell, was found guilty as charged of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 25 minutes on Thursday May 27, 2010, before returning the unanimous guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case in the 2 day trial.

Donaldson was arrested in August 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office at his home in Slidell. Donaldson had been selling cocaine to a go between who was delivering the drugs to an undercover informant. Police found the marked money used in the buys as well as 67 grams of cocaine in Donaldson’s home.

Judge Crain will sentence Donaldson on August 16^th, 2010. Donaldson could be sentenced to life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Donaldson has previous convictions for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and distribution of cocaine in Federal Court in New Orleans in 2000 and possession of cocaine, second degree battery and simple robbery in 1992 in St. Tammany. Possession with intent to distribute cocaine is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 2 nor more than 30 years.

May 28, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

WOMAN SENTENCED TO LENGTHY PRISON TERM

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight has sentenced Rhonda Goodson, 59 of Cleveland, Texas, to 18 years in prison. Goodson was found guilty of possession of cocaine over 400 grams on Wednesday, April 21, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Ken Dohre prepared and presented the state’s case.

Goodson was arrested on March 12, 2008, by the Louisiana State Police after a traffic stop. Goodson was stopped for speeding on interstate 12 near the Madisonville and Goodbee interchange. Three kilos of cocaine were found hidden in the trunk of her car.

Possession of cocaine over 400 grams is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 15 nor more than 30 years.

May 26, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEXUAL BATTERY

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Skyler Jenkins, 20 of Kokomo, Mississippi, has been found guilty as charged of sexual battery. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated one hour before returning the guilty as charged verdict Tuesday, May 25, 2010. 22^ndJudicial District Judge William Crain presided over the 2 day trial with Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. presenting the State’s case.

Jenkins was arrested in November 2009 by the Mandeville Police Department after the minor female victim reported the sexual abuse during an interview at the Children’s Advocacy Center. The victim was telling her story about being sexually abused by someone else in another parish when she explained that Jenkins had sexually abused her in June 2009.

Judge Crain will sentence Jenkins August 16, 2010. Whoever commits the crime of sexual battery when the victim is under the age of 13 years shall be imprisoned at hard labor from 25 to 99 years with at least 25 years being served without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

May 25, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER

---SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Eric Etienne, 23 of New Orleans, pled guilty to manslaughter on Tuesday, March 16, 2010. Etienne was originally indicted for 2^nd degree murder by a Grand Jury in 2006. The victim’s father sent a victim impact letter to the court and supported the plea agreement. 22^ndJudicial District Judge Allison Penzato accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Etienne to 20 years in prison on Monday, May 24, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Etienne was arrested in January 2006 by the Slidell Police Department after an adult male victim died of a stab womb. Etienne and the victim, who were related, had an argument in their Slidell area motel room. Etienne retrieved a tire repair tool from his truck and stabbed the victim. The victim collapsed and died in the parking lot while Etienne tried to get help.

Manslaughter is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not more than 40 years.

May 14, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO 3 CHARGES

---SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS IN PRSION---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Edgar Jenkins, 39 of Bogalusa, has pled guilty as charged to second degree kidnapping, attempted aggravated rape, and aggravated burglary. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz accepted the guilty plea on Thursday, May 13, 2010 and sentenced Jenkins to 17 years in prison. The victim was in attendance and supported the plea agreement. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Jenkins was arrested August 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after an adult female victim was kidnapped at knifepoint. Jenkins and the victim had previously been in a relationship before Jenkins attempted to rape her at her Covington area home. Jenkins stopped the sexual assault when he was startled by barking dogs but forced the victim into a car and left the parish. Jenkins brought the victim back home later that day and was arrested there later that night after neighbors saw him approaching.

Second degree kidnapping is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 5 nor more than 40 years. Attempted aggravated rape is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 10 nor more than 50 years. Aggravated burglary is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 1 nor more than 30 years.

May 14, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED TO PRISON FOR DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kenneth Woodruff, 48 of Lacombe, was sentenced by 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz Thursday, May 13, 2010, to 15 years in prison. Woodruff was found guilty as charged of 4^th offense domestic violence on March 30, 2010 by a 12 person St. Tammany Parish Jury. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Woodruff was arrested in October 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after Deputies received a domestic violence complaint. Woodruff and the adult female victim argued over family matters. Woodruff punched her in the face when she refused to leave.

Judge Swartz sentenced Batiste to 15 years in prison at hard labor with 8 years suspended resulting in a 7 year prison sentence. Judge Swartz further ordered 3 years of the sentence to be served without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. Domestic violence 4^th offense is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 10 nor more than 30 years.

May 13, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED IN CAR CRASH

---SENTENCED TO 10 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kenneth Allain, 48 of Talisheek, pled guilty as charged to first degree vehicular negligent injuring and driving while intoxicated on Thursday, May 13, 2010. The victim’s son was present and supported the plea agreement. 22^ndJudicial District Judge Martin Coady accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Allain to 10 years in prison as a career criminal. Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Allain was arrested in February 2010 by the Louisiana State Police after a two vehicle car crash on highway 41 north of Slidell. Allain drove his car into the rear of the elderly female victim’s car as it was stopped attempting to turn. The victim was transported to the hospital with serious injuries and Allain was found to be impaired.

Judge Coady initially sentenced Allain to 5 years in prison but increased the sentence to 10 years in prison after Allain was found to be a habitual offender. Allain has prior convictions for possession of marijuana in 1986 and possession of methadone in 2002.

First degree vehicular negligent injuring is punishable by imprisonment for not more than 5 years. Driving while intoxicated is punishable by imprisonment for not more than 6 months.

May 6, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

KKK LEADER PLEADS GUILTY TO MURDER

---SENTENCED TO L IFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Raymond Chuck Foster, 45 of Bogalusa, has pled guilty as charged to second degree murder. The trial was in it’s third day when Foster decided to plead guilty. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea and immediately sentenced Foster to life in prison. Assistant District Attorney Joey Oubre prepared and presented the State’s case.

Foster was arrested in November 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after a female victim was shot and killed near Sun. Foster was the leader of a small Klu Klux Klan unit that the victim had come to Louisiana to join. Foster shot the victim after she announced that she was withdrawing from the group and returning home.

Second degree murder is punishable by life in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

May 6, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY

---COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Joshua Johnson, 26 of Loranger, has been found guilty as charged of armed robbery. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated an hour and a half Wednesday evening, May 5^th, 2010 before returning the guilty verdict. 22^ndJudicial District Judge Allison Penzato presided over the 2 day trial with Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall presenting the State’s case.

Judge Penzato will sentence Johnson May 27th, 2010. Johnson could face life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Johnson has two prior drug convictions in Orleans Parish in 2005. Armed robbery is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 10 nor more than 99 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

May 4, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEX CRIMES

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ryan Mizell, 20 of Sun, pled guilty Monday, May 3rd, 2010, to two separate cases of indecent behavior with a juvenile. Mizell had originally been charged with sexual battery in the case of the male victim. The victims supported the plea agreement. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato accepted the guilty pleas and sentenced Mizell to 10 years in prison with 5 years suspended. Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s cases.

ADA Wall gave a victim impact statement for the juvenile female victim that included, “I want Ryan to go to jail because he isn’t safe around kids”. The mother of the juvenile male victim also gave a victim impact statement explaining how this crime has affected her son and family.

Mizell was first arrested in July 2008 by the Sun Police Department after the juvenile female victim’s mother told police of the sexual abuse. The victim advised that Mizell had exposed himself to her. Mizell was arrested again in February 2009 after the first charge was publicized. The juvenile male victim told his mother that Mizell was exposing himself while they were swimming.

Judge Penzato ordered that the first two years of the 5 year prison term be served without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. She also ordered Mizell to register as a sex offender for 15 years after prison. Indecent behavior with a juvenile under the age of thirteen is punishable by imprisonment from 2 to 25 years.

May 3, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

FOUR FOUND GUILTY LAST WEEK

----ONE COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Donnell Thomas, 24 of Bogalusa, William David Lauga, 34 of South Beach, Florida, and Charles Lee, 45 of Slidell, were all found guilty as charged in separate trials last week in Covington. Anthony Joseph Lachute, 36 of Bogalusa, was found guilty in Franklinton.

Thomas was found guilty on Wednesday, April 28, 2010, of distribution of marijuana and hydrocodone. Thomas was arrested in September 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after he sold illegal drugs to undercover agents. 22^ND Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz sentenced Thomas to 7 years in prison. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presented the States case. Distribution of marijuana is punishable by imprisonment for not less that 5 nor more than 30 years. Distribution of hydrocodone is punishable by imprisonment for not more than 10 years.

Lauga was found guilty on Wednesday, April 28, 2010, of armed robbery. Lauga was arrested in Florida in August 2009 by the U.S. Marshall’s service on a warrant from the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. Deputies issued the nationwide warrant for Lauga’s arrest after he robbed a local Slidell bartender at gunpoint in January 2009. Lauga had been living in St. Bernard Parish prior to the robbery and then fled to Florida. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain will sentence Lauga May 24^th, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. presented the State’s case. Armed robbery is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 10 nor more than 99 years.

Lee was found guilty on Thursday, April 29, 2010, of unauthorized entry and simple battery. Lee was arrested in July 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after forcing his way into a Slidell area home. Lee hit the renter’s boyfriend with a stick before fleeing. A Deputy Sheriff and his canine, Gaston, followed the defendant’s scent until he was captured nearby. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain will sentence Lee on June 28, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. presented the State’s case. Lee could face life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Lee has prior convictions for possession of marijuana in 2009, possession of cocaine in 2006, and 3 convictions for possession of cocaine in 2002.

Lachute was found guilty Tuesday, April 27, 2010, of attempted cruelty to a juvenile. Lachute was arrested in May 2007 by the Bogalusa Police Department after the juvenile female victim had trouble walking at school. A school staff member noticed the victim’s physical trouble and called the Office of Community Services. The OCS and Bogalusa Police went to Lachute’s home and arrested him. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress will sentence Lachute on May 5, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Jay Adair presented the State’s case. Attempted cruelty to a juvenile is punishable by imprisonment for not more than 5 years.

April 20, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER

---SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Karolina Glover, 74 of Mandeville, has pled guilty to manslaughter. Glover was originally indicted for 2^nd degree murder by a Grand Jury in 2007. 22^d Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Glover to 30 years in prison. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Glover was arrested in November 2006 by the Mandeville Police Department after the elderly female victim died at a local hospital. The murder occurred at a local nursing home where Glover and the victim were sharing a room together. Glover used a metal drawer handle to strike the victim several times causing her death.

Manslaughter is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not more than 40 years.

April 7, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY

---COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Robert Jenkins, 32 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of armed robbery. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated one hour before returning the guilty as charged verdict Tuesday, April 6, 2010. 22^ndJudicial District Judge William Crain presided over the 2 day trial with Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. presenting the State’s case.

Jenkins was arrested in June 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a man’s wallet and cell phone was stolen. The victim followed Jenkins after the robbery and called police. A K-9 dog was able to locate the victim’s stolen cell phone at the scene where Jenkins was arrested.

Judge Crain will sentence Jenkins May 24^th, 2010. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor from 10 to 99 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Mitchell will face from 99 years to life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Jenkins has five prior convictions for drugs from 2002 to 2007.

April 7, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CRIME

---Defendant Waives Jury---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Joseph Hampton, 43 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated rape. Hampton requested a judge trial and 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato heard the case on Tuesday, April 6, 2010. The trial lasted 3 hours in the morning before Judge Penzato found Hampton guilty in her ruling after lunch. The state’s case was prepared and presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Leigh Anne Wall.

Hampton was arrested in September 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the minor female victim reported the rapes to her mother. The sexual abuse began when the victim was 12 years old and lasted for 5 months.

Judge Penzato will sentence Hampton April 22, 2010. Aggravated rape is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor, without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

March 26, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FORCIBLE RAPE

---COULD FACE 80 YEARS IN PRISON---

FRANKLINTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Sadat El-Amin, 38 of Franklinton, has been found guilty as charged of 2 counts of forcible rape. A 12 member Washington Jury deliberated 50 minutes Thursday March 25, 2010, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Burris presided over the 2 day trial with the state’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Jay Adair.

El-Amin was arrested in August 2008 by the Franklinton Police Department after the rapes were reported. The minor female victim told El-Amin no repeatedly but was held down and raped twice. The female victim told her mother about the sex abuse and the police were notified.

Judge Burris will sentence El-Amin on June 7, 2010. El-Amin will face up to 80 years in prison if found to be a habitual offender. El-Amin has a previous conviction for bank fraud in 2009. Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

March 19, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED TO VEHICULAR HOMICIDE

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Leo Batiste, 49 of Lacombe, has pled guilty as charged to vehicular homicide and two counts of vehicular negligent injuring. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain accepted the guilty plea on Monday, March 15, 2010. The victim’s father and daughter gave victim impact statements prior to sentencing. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Batiste was arrested in March 2009 by the Louisiana State Police after a vehicle crash on the Highway 11 bridge near Slidell. Batiste’s pickup truck crossed the center line and and crashed head on into the victim’s sport utility vehicle. The victim was pronounced dead at the scene and his wife and daughter survived the crash and were taken to a local hospital.

Judge Crain sentenced Batiste to 7 years in prison for vehicular homicide and 6 months in prison for each count of vehicular negligent injuring. Judge Crain ordered that the sentences run consecutively resulting in a total sentence of 8 years in prison. Vehicular homicide is punishable by imprisonment with or without hard labor for not less than five years nor more than thirty years. Vehicular negligent injuring is punishable by 6 months in prison.

March 18, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CHARGE

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that James Tate, 25 of Franklinton, has been found guilty Wednesday night, March 17, 2010, of indecent behavior with a juvenile after a 1 day trial. A 12 member St. Tammany Jury deliberated 2 hours before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux. Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Tate was arrested in August 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the sex abuse was reported. The minor female victim’s mother discovered the indecent sexual texting on the victim’s telephone and contacted police. Tate had randomly called the victim and began texting her sexually explicit photos and suggestions.

Judge Badeaux will sentence Tate on April 5, 2010. Whoever commits the crime of indecent behavior with a juvenile shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than two nor more than twenty-five years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

March 18, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CHARGE

March 12, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Jody Swafford, 30 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of first degree murder with no death penalty. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for two hours Wednesday evening, March 10, 2010, before returning the unanimous guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr.

Swafford was arrested in November 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a local Slidell man was found dead. Swafford had worked for the victim in his tree cutting business and had gone to the victim’s home to rob him. During the robbery the victim was murdered.

Timothy Murray, 30 of North Carolina, is awaiting trial for allegedly being Swafford’s accomplice in the murder.

First degree murder without the death penalty is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

March 3, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

CAREER CRIMINAL SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that James Holts, 43 of Slidell,

was sentenced to life in prison, yesterday, March 2, 2010, after 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady found him to be a habitual offender. Holts was found guilty as charged of forcible rape by a 12 member St. Tammany Jury on Thursday October 15, 2009. Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Holts was arrested in November 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the sexual abuse was reported. The female victim was asleep when Holts began sexually abusing her. The victim awoke and screamed for Holts to stop but he continued with his hand over the victim’s mouth. Another person in the trailer came to the victim’s aid and the police were called.

Holts was found to be a habitual offender due to previous convictions for possession with intent to distribute prescription drugs in 2009, simple robbery in 2005, theft twice in 1986, and illegal possession of stolen things in 1984. Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

March 3, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

MAN SENTENCED TO 40 YEARS IN PRISON

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain has sentenced Kevin Williams, 39 of Baton Rouge, to life in prison for second degree murder and Alonzo Gonzales, 20 of Slidell to 40 years in prison for armed robbery. The two men were sentenced Monday, March 1, 2010. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s cases.

Williams was arrested July 14, 2008, by the Covington Police Department after an elderly female victim was found dead in her home. Williams forged some of the victim’s checks and drove her car after the murder. Williams DNA was found on the victim’s clothing. Williams was recorded asking himself why he had killed the victim. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 6 minutes Wednesday afternoon, January 27, 2010, before returning the guilty as charged verdict.

Gonzales was arrested in August 2005 by the Slidell Police Department after a local restaurant employee was robbed at gun point in the store’s parking lot. Gonzales believed the victim had the store deposit but she was carrying a bag of food. Gonzales was found guilty as charged on Thursday August the 27, 2009, by a twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury after a 4 day trial.

Second degree murder is punishable by life in prison at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Armed robbery is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence for not less than 10 nor more than 99 years.

March 1, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER

---SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Leonard Burkholder, 28 of Slidell, pled guilty to manslaughter on Friday, February 26, 2010. Burkholder was originally indicted for 2^nd degree murder by a Grand Jury in 2006. The victim’s family was present and agreed with the plea agreement. 22^ndJudicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Burkholder to 30 years in prison. Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Burkholder was arrested in July 2005 by the Slidell Police Department after an adult male victim died of a drug overdose in October 2004. The victim overdosed on drugs sold to him by Burkholder. Laboratory results also revealed the presence of other drugs in the victim’s body.

Manslaughter is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not more than 40 years.

February 24, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

WASHINGTON PARISH MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CRIME

FRANKLINTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Warren Pounds, 32 of Bogalusa, was found guilty Tuesday, February 23rd, 2010, of indecent behavior with a juvenile. The six person jury deliberated 45 minutes before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress. Assistant District Attorney Jay Adair was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case for the two day trial.

Pounds was arrested in January 2008 by the Bogalusa Police Department after the juvenile female victim’s mother told police of the sexual abuse. The victim’s mother noticed the victim having discomfort and asked her if there was a problem. The victim explained to her mother what had happened.

Judge Childress will sentence Pounds on March 10, 2010. Indecent behavior with a juvenile is punishable by imprisonment for not more than 7 years. If Pounds is found to be a habitual offender he could face up to 14 years in prison. Pounds has a prior conviction for possession of cocaine while possessing a firearm in 2008.

February 8, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Jared Graham, 20 of Lacombe, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for three hours Friday night, February 5, 2010, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge A. J. Hand presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing.

Graham was arrested in December 2005 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after he shot a male victim who died at the hospital. The victim had beaten Graham during a fight earlier in the day near a local Lacombe store. Graham went home to get his weapons and relocated to the victim’s home. Graham shot the victim with a 44 magnum pistol and two blasts from a shotgun.

Judge Hand will sentence Graham March 25, 2010. Second degree murder is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

January 29, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

ACCOMPLICE SENTENCED TO 40 YEARS IN PRISON

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain has sentenced Damon Caliste, 35, to life in prison and Darien Hinkel, 36, to 40 years in prison. The two Baton Rouge men were sentenced Friday night, January 22, 2010, after Judge Crain found them to be career criminals.

Caliste and Hinkel were arrested on Wednesday, November 19, 2008, by the Slidell Police Department after a local business noticed that items were missing. The store surveillance cameras revealed two men taking the items off the shelves on Tuesday, November 18, 2009. The two men were identified and arrested the next day when they returned to the store to shop.

Caliste and Hinkel were found guilty as charged of theft on Wednesday, July 29^th, 2009.

A 6 person St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 2 hours before returning the guilty verdict to Judge Crain. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. presented the states case in the 2 day trial.

Theft is punishable by not more than ten years in prison, however, Caliste and Hinkel faced from 20 years to life in prison due to their past convictions and the court finding them to be habitual offenders under the “three strikes” career criminal law. Caliste has prior convictions in New Orleans for possession with intent to distribute cocaine in 1993, forgery in 1995, and armed robbery in 1996. Hinkel has prior convictions in New Orleans for distribution of cocaine in 1994, possession of opium/opiates in 1999, and conspiracy to commit simple burglary in 2002.

January 28, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MURDER

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kevin Williams, 39 of Baton Rouge, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 6 minutes Wednesday afternoon, January 27, 2010, before returning the guilty verdicts to 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. prepared and presented the State’s case in the three day trial.

Second degree murder is punishable by life in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

January 19, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

PEARL RIVER MAN FOUND GUILTY OF DWI

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports Clifford Watts, 44 of Pearl River, was found guilty as charged, January 14, 2009, of 3^rd offense DWI. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 25 minutes before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Watts was arrested July 8, 2009, by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office in the Pearl River area. A Deputy observed several empty beer cans in Watt’s vehicle. Watts testified that he had had a few beers, refused the breath test, and failed the standard field sobriety test.

Judge Crain will sentence Watts February 3, 2010. 3^rd offense dwi is punishable by imprisonment from 1 to 5 years.

January 19, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MEN FOUND GUILTY OF FIRST DEGREE MURDER

----FOUR VICTIMS----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kelvin Kaigler, 28 of Slidell, and James Bishop, 42 of Slidell, have been found guilty as charged of 4 counts of non capital first degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 6 hours, Friday, January 15, 2010, before returning the guilty verdict. The Jury was selected on Wednesday January 6, 2010, with the trial beginning Monday, January 11, 2010. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Harold Bartholomew, Jr.

Bishop and Kaigler were arrested in August 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after four people were murdered on June 27, 2006, in Slidell. Bishop and Kaigler were driven to the murder scene by Frank Knight who remained in the car while the murders took place. Frank Knight pled guilty to accessory after the fact to first degree murder and testified against Bishop and Kaigler at the trial. The murders were the result of the illegal drug business.

Judge Coady will sentence Kaigler and Bishop on February 11, 2010. Non capital first degree murder is punishable by life in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

January 14, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED RAPE

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Craig Wager, 39 of Abita Springs, was found guilty as charged, January 13^th, 2010, of aggravated rape. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 3 hours before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the three day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt.

Wager was arrested in January 2009 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after a minor female victim told her mother about the sexual abuse. The rape occurred while the victim and her younger brother were spending the night at the defendant’s home.

Aggravated rape is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

January 14, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF 1995 MURDERS

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ronald Bickham, 43 of Lacombe, has been found guilty as charged of 2 counts of non capital first degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated an hour Wednesday afternoon, January 13, 2010, before returning the guilty verdicts to 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. prepared and presented the State’s case in the three day trial.

Bickham was indicted in May 2008 by a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury for this 1995 double murder while serving a 60 year prison sentence for a 1997 armed robbery conviction. The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested Bickham in March 2008 for the 1995 crimes after a DNA match revealed Bickham’s blood on the female victim’s clothes. The murders of the man and woman occurred just east of Covington.

Judge Crain will officially sentence Bickham on February 3, 2010. Non capital first degree murder is punishable by life in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

January 12, 2010

NEWS RELEASE

WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED

---SENTENCED TO 35 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kimberlin Edwards, 41 of Slidell, pled guilty as charged, August 18, 2009, to vehicular homicide, possession of cocaine, and possession of marijuana. The 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury had been selected before Edwards chose to plead guilty. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato accepted the plea and Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Edwards was arrested in October 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after she crashed her SUV into a man driving a motor operated scooter on Donya Street in Slidell. The man died from his injuries. Edwards was found to be impaired and cocaine and marijuana were found in her vehicle.

Judge Penzato sentenced Edwards to 35 years in prison on Monday, January 11, 2010. Edwards was sentenced as a career criminal due to 3 prior convictions for possession of cocaine in 2005 and 3 counts of armed robbery in 1993 in New Orleans.

Vehicular homicide is punishable by not less than 5 nor more than 30 years in prison. Possession of cocaine is punishable by up to 5 years in prison.

December 7, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

WASHINGTON PARISH MEN FOUND GUILTY OF ABUSE

FRANKLINTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the convictions of Ben Rester and Jonathan Gerald in separate trials last week before 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress. Rester, 59 of Bogalusa, was found guilty December 1, 2009, of attempted cruelty to a juvenile and indecent behavior with a juvenile. The six person jury deliberated 30 minutes before returning the guilty verdicts. Gerald, 24 of Bogalusa, was found guilty December 3, 2009, of molestation of a juvenile. The six person jury deliberated an hour and a half before returning the guilty verdict. Assistant District Attorney Jay Adair was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case in each trial.

Rester was arrested in August 2007 by the Bogalusa Police Department after the male and female victims told a counselor about the physical and sexual abuse that happened in 2004 and 2005. Both victims testified during the trial.

Gerald was arrested in December 2006 by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office after the female victim disclosed the sexual abuse to her best friend. The victim’s mother was notified and she reported the abuse to the police.

Judge Childress will sentence Rester and Gerald on February 3^rd, 2010. Indecent behavior with a juvenile is punishable by imprisonment for not more than 7 years. Attempted cruelty to a juvenile is punishable by imprisonment for not more than 5 years.

Molestation of a juvenile is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 1 nor more than 10 years.

December 3, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FORCIBLE RAPE AND SECOND DEGREE BATTERY

---FACES UP TO 80 YEARS IN PRSION---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kelton Torregano, 34 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of forcible rape and second degree battery. A 12 member St. Tammany Jury deliberated 3 1/2 hours Wednesday, December 2, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 3 day trial with the state’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew, Jr.

Torregano was arrested in January 2009 by the Slidell Police Department after he beat and raped his girl friend. Torregano and the victim had an argument which resulted in the physical and sexual abuse. The victim was able to escape to a family member’s home after the defendant fell asleep. Family members took the victim to the hospital and the police were notified.

Judge Coady will sentence Torregano on December 17, 2009. Torregano faces from 20 up to 80 years in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Torregano has a previous conviction in Georgia in July 1999 for burglary, stalking, false imprisonment, aggravated assault with a firearm, aggravated assault on a police officer, and simple battery. Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

November 13, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CRIME

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Harold Jenkins, 76 of Abita Springs, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated rape. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 40 minutes Thursday, November 12, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain presided over the three day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr.

Jenkins was arrested in July 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the female victim reported the sexual abuse to her mother. The sexual abuse began when the victim was 20 years old in 2004.

Judge Crain sentenced Jenkins to life in prison. Aggravated rape is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor, without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

November 12, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN GUILTY OF CHILD PORNOGRAPHY AND DRUG CHARGES

--- COULD GET LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Andrew Galatas, 43 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of pornography involving juveniles and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 2 hours before returning the guilty verdicts. 22^nd Judicial District Court Judge William Knight presided over the 2 day trial with Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Galatas was arrested in April 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s office after it was reported to the FBI that Galatas’ computer contained child pornography. A search of Galatas’ home revealed the child pornography on Galatas’ computer and also nearly a pound of marijuana.

Judge Knight will sentence Galatas on November 30, 2009. Galatas faces up to life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Galatas has prior convictions for molestation of a juvenile in 1999, possession of stolen property and issuing worthless checks in 1996, and possession of stolen property in 1987 in Orleans Parish.

Pornography involving juveniles is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 2 nor more than 10 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Possession with intent to distribute marijuana is punishable by imprisonment for up to 20 years.

November 10, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

ALABAMA MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Eric Buras, 31 of Irvington, Alabama, pled guilty as charged to second degree murder on Monday, September 28, 2009. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain sentenced Buras to life in prison on Monday, October 26, 2009. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Buras was arrested on December 28, 2005, by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a lifeless female victim was found on November 13, 2005, floating in the West Pearl River. A truck driver traveling on interstate 59 called authorities after noticing the body in the water. Buras brought the victim to Louisiana from Alabama on a day trip and bound the victim before drowning her in the river near the I-59 Pearl River turnaround. The out-of-state victim was later identified by a family member from Alabama after the press release. Witnesses and crime scene evidence linked the defendant to the murder.

Second degree murder is punishable by life in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

October 21, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN SENTENCED TO JAIL FOR FOURTH OFFENSE DWI

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports Yilver Moradel Ponce, 38 of Covington, has been sentenced to 15 years in prison after being found guilty as charged of a fourth and subsequent offense DWI. A 12 person St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty verdict Friday August 28, 2009. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Donald Fendlason presided over the case with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Ponce was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a traffic stop near Abita Springs. Ponce smelled of alcohol and failed the standard field sobriety test. Ponce also failed the chemical alcohol test administered at the police station.

Judge Fendlason sentenced Ponce to the 15 years in prison yesterday October 20, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of a fourth and subsequent offense DWI shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten nor more than thirty years.

October 30, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN SENTENCED TO LONG PRISON TERM

FOR SEX CRIMES

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Daniel Joseph Moore, 33 of Slidell, was sentenced yesterday, October 29, 2009 to three consecutive life sentences. Moore was found guilty September 2, 2009 of 3 counts of aggravated rape and acquitted of 1 count of attempted aggravated rape. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 3 hours before returning the guilty verdicts. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato presided over the three day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Leigh Anne Wall.

Moore was arrested in May 2004 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after a letter was found at a Slidell area school describing the sexual abuse. The male victims ranged in age from 5 to 11 and the rapes occurred over an eight year period from 1996 to 2004.

Aggravated rape is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

October 29, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEX CHARGES

---SENTENCED TO LONG PRISON TERM---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Yultton Mendoza, 35 of Slidell, has pled guilty to attempted aggravated rape and attempted aggravated incest. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz accepted the guilty pleas on Monday, October 26, 2009. Mendoza had originally been indicted for aggravated rape and aggravated incest. The victims and their families agreed with the plea to the lesser charges. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Mendoza was arrested in August 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs office after a minor female victim reported the sexual abuse to her parents. Another minor female victim confirmed that Mendoza had sexually abused her also.

Judge Swartz sentenced Mendoza to 32 years in prison. Attempted aggravated rape and attempted aggravated incest are punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than ten nor more than fifty years without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

October 20, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FIRST DEGREE MURDER

---- JURY’S VERDICT IS DEATH PENALTY----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that James Magee, 32 of Pearl River, has been found guilty as charged of 2 counts of first degree murder and 2 counts of attempted first degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 2 hours Saturday night, October 17, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. The Jury deliberated 3 hours on Monday evening, October 19, 2009, before deciding for the death penalty. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the 8 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Ken Dohre.

Magee was arrested in April 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after he murdered his 5 year old son and estranged wife and wounded one of his 2 young daughters. Magee’s wife and 3 children were traveling in their vehicle near Mandeville when Magee forced them off the roadway and into a tree. Magee shot his wife, son, and one daughter. Magee fled to Alabama where he was arrested hours later.

Judge Knight will sentence Magee on Monday, November 30, 2009. First degree murder is punishable by death or life in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Attempted first degree murder is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 10 nor more than 50 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

October 16, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

INMATE FOUND GUILTY OF 2^ND DEGREE BATTERY

---COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Troy Batiste, 46 of Lacombe, has been found guilty as charged of second degree battery. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty verdict Thursday October 15, 2009, after one hour of deliberation. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the 1 day trial with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presenting the State’s case.

Batiste was observed beating a fellow prisoner in October 2008 while in jail awaiting sentencing for an August 2008, conviction for second degree battery and aggravated criminal damage to property. Batiste and the other inmate were watching television when Batiste became angry at him for misuse of the remote control. Batiste hit his fellow inmate several times knocking him unconscious.

The August 2008 conviction stemmed from a road rage incident where Batiste rammed a motorist and beat him for allegedly cutting Batiste off in traffic. 22^nd Judicial District Judge A. J. Hand presided over that trial and Batiste was found guilty as charged on August 1, 2008. Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew, Jr. presented the State’s case. Sentencing is scheduled for October 28, 2009, and Batiste is facing life in prison as a career criminal.

Judge Swartz will sentence Batiste November 13, 2009. Batiste will face life in prison again if found to be a career criminal. Batiste has prior convictions for disturbing the peace in 1999, second degree battery in 1991, aggravated battery in 1987, and illegal use of weapons in 1982

October 16, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF AGGRAVATED INCEST

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the conviction of Michael Anthony Wright, 38 of Lake Charles, for aggravated incest. A 6 person St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated Wednesday, October 14, 2009, for one hour before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22^ndJudicial District Judge William Crain presided over the 3 day trial with the state’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr.

Wright was arrested in September 2007 by the Slidell Police Department after the victim told a family member about the sexual abuse. The defendant and victim were staying in Slidell while attending Mardi Gras in February 2007 when the abuse took place. Months after the abuse the victim was able to get away from Wright to stay with a family member where the abuse was disclosed and the Police were contacted.

Judge Crain will sentence Wright December 14, 2009. Aggravated incest is punishable by imprisonment for not less than 5 nor more than nor more than 20 years in prison with or without hard labor.

October 16, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FORCIBLE RAPE

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that James Holts, 43 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of forcible rape. A 12 member St. Tammany Jury deliberated 2 hours Thursday October 15, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 3 day trial with the state’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew, Jr.

Judge Coady will sentence Holts on November 4, 2009. Holts will face life in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Holts has previous convictions for possession with intent to distribute prescription drugs in 2009, simple robbery in 2005, theft twice in 1986, and illegal possession of stolen things in 1984. Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

October 15, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MANSLAUGHTER

---2 ACCOMPLICES PREVIOUSLY PROSECUTED---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Jace Washington, 21 of Slidell, has been found guilty of manslaughter. Washington was originally indicted for 2^nd degree murder by a Grand Jury in 2007. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 3 hours Wednesday night October 14, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^d Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Special Assistant District Attorney Gerry Alonzo and Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt.

Washington and three accomplices were arrested in May 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office for the murder of a male victim. The shooting occurred near Slidell during a robbery attempt at a trailer that housed several workers. One accomplice, Glen Carter, 19 of New Orleans, was found guilty as charged, August 4, 2008, and is serving a life sentence in prison. Another accomplice, Edric Cooper, 21 of Slidell, pled guilty just before his trial was to begin to manslaughter on Monday, August 11, 2008.

The other alleged accomplice, Grant Gethers, 20 of New Orleans is awaiting trial on second degree murder charges.

Judge Swartz will sentence Washington December 14, 2009. Manslaughter is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not more than 40 years.

October 15, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN GUILTY OF SEX CRIMES

---WIFE GUILTY OF HELPING HUSBAND AVOID ARREST---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Frances Reed, 42 of Covington, was found guilty as charged of 2 counts of aggravated rape on September 11, 2009. Frances Reed’s wife Sonja, 41 of Covington, pled guilty yesterday to 2 counts of accessory after the fact.

22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over Frances Reed’s trial in September with the states case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Joey Oubre and Julie Knight. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux accepted Sonja Reed’s guilty plea and sentenced her to 6 years in prison. Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Frances Reed was arrested in March 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the sexual abuse was reported on May 6, 2005. One of the victims told their school counselor about the abuse and the authorities were immediately notified. Sonja Reed was arrested on May 20, 2005, for helping her husband avoid being arrested.

Judge Garcia sentenced Frances Reed to life in prison October 8, 2009. Aggravated Rape is punishable by life in prison at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Judge Badeaux sentenced Sonja Reed to 6 years in prison after she pled guilty to a multiple offender bill. Sonja Reed has a prior conviction for prescription drug fraud in 2001. Accessory after the fact is punishable with or without hard labor for not more than 5 years in prison.

September 4, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SECOND DEGREE MURDER

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Damien Dyson, 29 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated 45 minutes Thursday, September 4, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Lewis Murray.

Dyson was arrested in January 2008 by the Bogalusa Police Department after a male victim was found murdered on Redmond Street in north Bogalusa. Dyson and the victim had argued earlier in the day and Dyson left the area. Dyson returned hours later and shot the victim who died at the hospital. The victim was trying to get away from Dyson as he was hit with the fatal bullet. Eye witnesses to the murder testified during the trial.

Judge Childress will sentence Dyson September 22, 2009. Second degree murder is punishable by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

September 3, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CRIMES

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Daniel Joseph Moore, 33 of Slidell, has been found guilty of 3 counts of aggravated rape. Moore was acquitted of 1 count of attempted aggravated rape. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 3 hours Wednesday afternoon, September 2, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato presided over the three day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Leigh Anne Wall.

Judge Penzato will sentence Moore on October 29, 2009. Aggravated rape is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

August 18, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FIRST DEGREE MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ranall Mauldin, 31 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of first degree murder without the death penalty. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated, August 18, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge A.J. Hand presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing.

Mauldin was arrested in February 2008 by the Bogalusa Police after a man was found murdered. The victim was a paraplegic war veteran and was shot twice in the back of the head. He was discovered with his wheelchair on top of him and his pockets turned inside out. Mauldin threw the gun in the woods and used the victim’s ATM card to make withdrawals. Mauldin confessed to the murder and showed Police where to find the gun and the ATM card.

Judge Hand will sentence Mauldin September 14, 2009. First degree murder without the death penalty is punishable by or life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

August 18, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

WOMAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED AFTER JURY SELECTED

---COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Kimberlin Edwards, 41 of Slidell, to vehicular homicide and possession of cocaine and marijuana. Edwards pled guilty after the jury was empanelled but before any testimony had been given. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato accepted the guilty plea on Tuesday, August 18, 2009. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Edwards was arrested in October 2008 by the Louisiana State Police after a vehicle crash on Donya Street near Slidell. Edwards lost control of her sport utility vehicle and ran over the victim who was riding on a handicap scooter. The victim died at the scene. Police found Edwards to be alcohol impaired and cocaine and marijuana in Edward’s vehicle.

Judge Penzato today sentenced Edwards to 17 years in prison for vehicular homicide, five years in prison for possession of cocaine, and six months in prison for possession of marijuana to run concurrently. Judge Penzato could sentence Edwards to life in prison as a career criminal on September 22, 2009. Edwards has prior convictions for armed robbery and attempted armed robbery in 1993 in New Orleans and possession of cocaine in 2005. Vehicular homicide is punishable by imprisonment with or without hard labor for not less than five years nor more than thirty years.

August 14, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

FOLSOM MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Edward “Eddie” McCray, 42 of Folsom, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for an hour and a half Thursday, August 14^th, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the 4 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight.

McCray was arrested in August 2005 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a man died from head injuries. McCray and the victim were in an argument over drugs near Folsom when McCray struck him several times with a hammer resulting in the victim’s death. McCray forced a neighbor to drive him away from the scene but Deputies found him two days later in abandoned trailer in Tangipahoa Parish.

Judge Badeaux will sentence McCray September 29, 2009. Second degree murder is punishable by imprisonment for life at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

August 6, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY TWICE IN SEPARATE TRIALS

---COULD FACE 60 YEARS IN PRISON ---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Antoine Mills, 23 of Slidell, was found guilty as charged Tuesday, August 3^rd and Wednesday August 4th, 2009. Mills was found guilty on Tuesday of a felon in possession of a firearm and on Wednesday of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Two twelve member St. Tammany Parish Juries returned each guilty verdict in less than 20 minutes. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the trials with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s cases.

In the Tuesday case, Mills was arrested in January 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after a traffic stop in which the Deputy observed a firearm in plain view.

In the Wednesday case, Mills was arrested at his home in January 2008 by the Slidell Police Department on a warrant for possession of a stolen firearm. Crack cocaine and over three thousand dollars was found in a safe where the stolen firearm was located.

A felon in possession of a firearm is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 5 nor more than 10 years. Possession with intent to distribute cocaine is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 10 nor more than 30 years. Mills faces from 15 to 60 years in prison if found to be a career criminal. Mills has a prior conviction for carnal knowledge in 2007.

July 30, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

TWO MEN FOUND GUILTY OF THEFT

--COULD FACE LIFE SENTENCES--

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that two Baton Rouge men, Damon Caliste, 35, and Darien Hinkel, 36, were found guilty as charged of theft on Wednesday July 29^th, 2009. A 6 person St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 2 hours before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain. Assistant District Attorney Nick Noriea, Jr. presented the states case in the 2 day trial.

Judge Crain will sentence Caliste and Hinkel on September 28, 2009. Theft is punishable by not more than ten years in prison, however, Caliste and Hinkel could face life in prison if Judge Crain finds them to be career criminals. Caliste has prior convictions in New Orleans for possession with intent to distribute cocaine in 1993, forgery in 1995, and armed robbery in 1996. Hinkel has prior convictions in New Orleans for distribution of cocaine in 1994, possession of opium/opiates in 1999, and conspiracy to commit simple burglary in 2002.

July 29, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO PORNOGRAPHY CHARGES

--- GETS 20 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of George Bunch, 52 of Covington, to 7 counts of pornography involving juveniles and 3rd offense possession of marijuana. 22^nd Judicial District Court Judge Richard Swartz accepted the guilty plea Tuesday, July 28, 2009, and sentenced Bunch to 20 years in prison as a career criminal. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Bunch was arrested in April 2009 by the Covington Police Department after a suspicious man was reported looking up pornography at the local library. Bunch was located behind the library and was found to possess marijuana and sexually explicit writings involving juveniles. Police found child pornography while searching Bunch’s living quarters.

Judge Swartz sentenced Bunch to 20 years in prison as a career criminal for the pornography charges and 20 years in prison for the marijuana charge to be served concurrently. Pornography involving juveniles is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 2 nor more than 10 years in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Third offense marijuana possession is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Bunch has a prior conviction for obscenity in 2005 in East Baton Rouge Parish.

July 21, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

FRANKLINTON MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ATTEMPTED MURDER

----COULD FACE 100 YEARS----

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kenneth “Pickle” McClain, 22 of Franklinton, has been found guilty as charged of attempted first degree murder of a Franklinton Policeman. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for one hour Friday, July 17th, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Lewis Murray.

McClain was arrested in September 2007 by the Franklinton Police after an officer was shot during a foot pursuit. McClain ran from Police and fought with the officer that caught him. McClain shot the officer and ran away. The officer was temporarily immobilized by the bullet but has fully recovered and identified McClain as the shooter.

Judge Childress will sentence McClain August 14, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of attempted first degree murder of a policeman shall be punished by imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence for not less than 20 nor more than 50 years in prison. If McClain is found to be a habitual offender he would face not less than 25 nor more than 100 years in prison. McClain has a prior conviction for possession of cocaine in 2007.

July 14, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

----FOURTH CONVICTION RESULTS IN LIFE SENTENCE ----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Nicky Landor, 35 of Lacombe, was sentenced to life in prison Monday July 13, 2009, as a career criminal. Landor was found guilty of manslaughter by a 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury Thursday evening May 28, 2009. Landor was originally indicted by a Grand Jury in January 2007 for second degree murder. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Harold Batholomew, Jr.

Landor was arrested in October 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a man was killed by a gunshot near Lacombe. Landor knew the male victim and the two became involved in an argument over money. Landor produced a jack handle before the victim fired a warning shot and then the victim struck Landor with the gun. The two began fighting and Landor took the gun from the victim. Landor shot the victim in the leg as the gun jammed. Landor cocked the gun and shot him again while he was on the ground killing him.

Judge Coady sentenced Landor June 18, 2009, to 25 years in prison manslaughter. Landor was found to be a career criminal at his habitual offender hearing yesterday and was sentenced by Judge Coady to life in prison. Landor has prior convictions for distribution of cocaine in 1998, issuing worthless checks in 1994, and second degree battery in 1993.

June 22, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY IN ABSENCE

---COURT ISSUES WARRANT FOR HIS ARRREST---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Terry Allen, 24 of Covington, was found guilty as charged Tuesday, June 16, 2009, of distribution of cocaine. The court broke for lunch and the defendant did not return as the trial proceeded. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated about 20 minutes before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the one day trial and Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Allen was arrested in July 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after deputies video and audio taped Allen selling cocaine to an undercover policeman. The buy took place in March 2008 in a local supermarket parking lot.

Whoever commits the crime of distribution of cocaine shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than two nor more than thirty years. Jones faces 20 to 60 years in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Jones has prior convictions for possession of cocaine in 2003 and aggravated flight in 2007.

June 4, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

JURY CAN’T DECIDE IN SEXUAL BATTERY CASE

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that a mistrial was declared by 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux in the State versus Jacinto Martinez. Martinez, 75 of Slidell, was arrested in December 2007 for sexual battery by Slidell Police Department after a child victim told her mother about the alleged sexual abuse. Deliberations of a six member St. Tammany Parish Jury resulted in the mistrial. The jurors reported they could not reach a unanimous verdict.

A decision as to whether to retry the case has not been made.

June 3, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEX CRIME

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Charles E. Howard, 59 of Mandeville, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated oral sexual battery. Howard also faces a charge of molestation of a juvenile. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 50 minutes Tuesday evening, June 2, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the two day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Jack Hoffstadt and Scott Gardner.

Howard was arrested in February 2002 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the female victim reported the sexual abuse to her mother. The sexual abuse began when the victim was 6 years old in 1991 and continued until the victim was 13 years old in 1998.

Judge Swartz will sentence Howard on July 28, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated oral sexual battery shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence, for not more than twenty years.

May 29, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MANSLAUGHTER

----COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON ----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Nicky Landor, 35 of Lacombe, has been found guilty of manslaughter. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated three hours Thursday evening May 28, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. Landor was originally indicted by a Grand Jury in January 2007 for second degree murder. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Harold Batholomew, Jr.

Judge Coady will sentence Landor June 18, 2009. Whoever commits manslaughter shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than forty years. Landor could face life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Landor has prior convictions for distribution of cocaine in 1998, issuing worthless checks in 1994, and second degree battery in 1993.

May 26, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

SCHOOL PROJECT

COVINGTON FAKE ROBBERY CHARGES DISMISSED

District Attorney Walter Reed reports that the charges filed against several Covington High School students and a local store owner have been dismissed. The students were working on a film project assigned to them by a teacher at Covington High. The fake robbery was staged at a local Covington jewelry store when a passing motorist observed and reported the incident as the students were acting out their roles for the film project. The Covington Police Department responded appropriately and secured the scene. The District Attorney has reviewed the violations submitted by the police department and has dismissed all charges based upon insufficient evidence.

May 22, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY

---COULD FACE 198 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Larry Mitchell, 37 of New Orleans, has been found guilty as charged of armed robbery. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated one hour before returning the guilty as charged verdict Thursday, May 21, 2009. 22^ndJudicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over the 2 day trial with Assistant District Attorney Joey Oubre presenting the State’s case.

Mitchell was arrested in June 2008 by the Slidell and New Orleans Police Departments after a local Slidell convenience store was robbed. An employee observed Mitchell use a garbage bag to take items from the store and grabbed the bag from Mitchell outside the store. Mitchell brandished his gun, took the bag from the employee, and fled. The employee observed the license plate and the getaway car was found in New Orleans.

During the trial, a witness in the case reported to D.A. Investigator Louis Dabdoub that a man was making threats just outside the trial courtroom. After further investigation, the man was arrested and ordered by Judge Garcia to be held without bail.

Judge Garcia will sentence Mitchell June 17, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor from 10 to 99 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Mitchell will face from 50 to 198 years in prison if found to be a career criminal. Mitchell has prior convictions in New Orleans for theft in 2003 and drugs in 1994.

May 20, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY IN VEHICLE CRASH

---COULD FACE UP TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- The 22^nd Judicial District Attorney Office reports that Ghazir Lacayo, 39 of Slidell, has been found guilty of aggravated criminal damage to property. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty verdict Tuesday afternoon, May 19, 2009, after one hour of deliberation. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain presided over the trial with Assistant District Attorney Karen Middleton presenting the State’s case.

Lacayo was arrested in June 2006 by the Slidell Police Department after he intentionally rammed his super duty Ford 350 pickup truck into two vehicles at a local business in the Slidell area. Lacayo ran into a Volvo driven by his ex wife and pushed it into another one. Lacayo jump out of his vehicle and pulled his ex wife from her badly damaged Volvo began hitting and screaming at her.

District Attorney Walter Reed commented, “this type of violent behavior has no place in our world….people must learn to work out problems peacefully.”

Judge Crain will sentence Lacayo Wednesday May 20, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated criminal damage to property shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not less than one nor more than fifteen years. If Lacayo is found to be a career criminal his sentence would be from 15 years to 30 years in prison. Lacayo has a prior conviction for aggravated battery in 1992.

May 20, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SEXUAL BATTERY

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Donald Searcy, 61 of Slidell, has been found guilty of sexual battery. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty verdict Wednesday evening, May 13, 2009, after two hours of deliberation. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the trial with Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight presenting the State’s case.

Searcy was arrested in December 2008 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs office after an adult female victim reported the sexual abuse. The incident occurred at a local business in the Slidell area. Searcy grabbed the victim from behind and rubbed her in an inappropriate sexual manner.

Judge Badeaux sentenced Searcy Wednesday May 20, 2009, to 3 years in prison and further ordered Searcy to complete a sex offender program and register as a sex offender. Whoever commits the crime of sexual battery shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence, for not more than 10 years.

May 19, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEX CHARGE

---FACES 25 YEARS TO LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that John Skias, 80 of Mandeville, has pled guilty as charged to aggravated incest. 22^nd Judicial District Judge A. J. Hand accepted the guilty plea on Monday May 18, 2009 as the case was going to trial. Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Skias was arrested in June 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs office after a minor female victim reported the sexual abuse to her father.

Judge Hand will sentence Skias August 4, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated incest of a victim under the age of 13 years shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than 25 years up to life in prison. At least 25 years must serve without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

May 18, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

CHILD RAPIST SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON PLUS 20

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Dino Jay Schwertz, 42 of Slidell, was sentenced on Friday May 15, 2009, to life in prison for aggravated rape and twenty years in prison for molestation of a juvenile. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain sentenced Schwertz and also ordered the sentences to be served consecutively. Schwertz was found guilty as charged of aggravated rape and molestation of a juvenile April 2, 2009 by a twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury. Victim impact statements were heard in court prior to the sentencing. Judge Crain presided over the four day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Karen Middleton.

Schwertz was arrested in March 2008 by the Slidell Police Department after the two minor male victims reported the sexual abuse to their parents. The abuse took place between September and December 2007 at the victims’ school where Schwertz was employed as a janitor.

Whoever commits the crime of aggravated rape shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of molestation of a juvenile shall be punished by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 1 nor more than 20 years in prison.

May 12, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF AGGRAVATED BATTERY

----COULD FACE 10 YEARS IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Richard Pramann, 48 of Covington, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated battery. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated into Monday evening May 11, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the one day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Ken Dohre.

Pramann was arrested in January 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after a male adult victim was taken to the hospital with knife wounds. Pramann and the victim were at the defendant’s house in Covington when they began fighting. Pramann stabbed the victim with the knife before the victim ran out and back to his home next door.

Judge Knight will sentence Pramann July 8, 2008. Whoever commits aggravated battery shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars, imprisoned for at hard labor for not more than ten years, or both.

May 8, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

CAREER CRIMINAL FOUND GUILTY OF ROBBERY

---FACES LIFE IN PRISON---

Covington---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Jason Walstrum, 39 of Mandeville, was found guilty of two counts of armed robbery. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty verdict after 25 minutes of deliberation Thursday, May 7, 2009. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Rick Swartz presided over the trial with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presenting the States case.

Walstrum was arrested in July 2008 by the Mandeville Police Department after employees at a local Mandeville restaurant were robbed at gun point. Walstrum threatened to spray the restaurant with bullets if anyone tried to follow him. The sobbing victims identified the defendant in court and told how they feared for their lives.

Judge Swartz will sentence Walstrum June 23, 2009. Walstrum could face life in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Walstrum has prior convictions for intent to sell drugs in 2006 in Mississippi, burglary and aggravated assault in 1994 in Florida, and grand theft in Florida in 1991.

May 8, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

WOMAN FOUND GUILTY IN TWO CAR CRASH

--COULD FACE 10 YEARS IN PRISON—

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Callan Gill, 24 of Bush, has been found guilty as charged of first degree vehicular negligent injuring. A six member St. Tammany Jury returned the guilty verdict May 6, 2009 after 20 minutes of deliberation. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz presided over the one day trial with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presenting of the states case.

Gill was arrested in May 2008 by the Louisiana State Police after a two vehicle crash on Fish Hatchery Road north of U.S. highway 190 near Lacombe. Gill crossed the center line and hit the victim’s vehicle head on. Gill was found to be impaired from the use of alcohol.

Judge Swartz will sentence Gill May 23, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of first degree vehicular negligent injuring shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than five years. Gill could face 10 years in prison if found to be a career criminal. Gill has a prior conviction for illegal possession of prescription drugs in 2004. Gill is also awaiting trial for a 2006 arrest for possession of cocaine that could lengthen her prison sentence further.

April 30, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

LOCAL MAN FOUND GUILTY OF THREE FELONIES

---FACES UP TO 198 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Gary Wayne Slaydon, Jr., 27 of Pear River, has been found guilty as charged of armed robbery, attempted second degree murder and aggravated burglary. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 2 hours Wednesday afternoon, April 29, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the three day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Julie Knight.

Slaydon and an accomplice, Paul Gafford, 23 of Slidell, were arrested in November 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a Slidell man was beaten with a stick and robbed in his home. The victim sustained serious injuries but was able to escape by swimming across a bayou to a neighbor’s home. Gafford pled guilty as charged in November 2008 and was sentenced to 15 years in prison.

Judge Badeaux will sentence Slaydon May 20, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned from 10 to 99 years, attempted second degree murder from 10 to 50 years and aggravated burglary for not more than 30 years. If Slaydon is found to be a career criminal for his armed robbery conviction he will be imprisoned from 491/2 to 198 years. Slaydon has prior convictions for simple escape and unauthorized use of motor vehicle in 2003 and burglary of an inhabited dwelling in 2002.

April 28, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED

---SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Vasilios Pappas, 46 of Slidell, to three counts of second degree sexual battery, two counts of second degree kidnapping, four counts of false imprisonment with a dangerous weapon, five counts of aggravated battery and one count of second degree battery. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea on Monday, April 27, 2009, after hearing from two victims in open court. The victims both said that they were satisfied with the plea versus going to trial. Assistant District Attorneys Joey Oubre and Gerry Alonzo were in charge of the preparation and presentation of the states case.

Pappas was arrested in October 2004 by Slidell Police after an adult female victim complained that Pappas had sexually and physically abused her. Two other adult female victims came forward after hearing of the arrest to complain that they too were abused by the defendant. The fourth adult female victim made a complaint in March 2008. Pappas and the victims had a normal relationship initially and then it would degenerate into sexual and physical abuse.

Judge Garcia sentenced Pappas to 15 years in prison for each count of second degree sexual battery, 15 years in prison for each count of second degree kidnapping, 10 years in prison for each count of false imprisonment with a deadly weapon, 10 years in prison for each count of aggravated battery and 5 years in prison for one count of second degree battery. Judge Garcia ordered the sentences to be served concurrently and that Pappas must register as a sex offender upon release from prison.

April 21, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

LACOMBE MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED

---SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Troy Kilroy, 33 of Lacombe, to vehicular homicide and possession of hydrocodone. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea on Tuesday, April 21, 2009, and heard victim impact statements from the victim’s family before sentencing. Assistant District Attorney Joey Oubre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Kilroy was arrested in July 2008 by the Louisiana State Police after a single vehicle crash on Louisiana highway 435 near Abita Springs. Kilroy was traveling southbound in a Toyota Camry near mile marker 3.4 when he lost control of his vehicle and ran into a cement bridge rail. A 32 year old male front seat passenger was ejected from the vehicle and later died after being transported to a local hospital. Kilroy was found to be impaired from the use of alcohol and prescription drugs.

Judge Garcia sentenced Kilroy to 20 years in prison with 14 years being suspended. Kilroy must serve the remaining 6 years in prison with 5 of those years to be served without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. Kilroy will be placed on supervised probation upon release from prison and must complete a court appointed substance abuse program, and have an interlock device installed on his vehicle. Judge Garcia sentenced Kilroy to 5 years for possession of hydrocodone with the sentences to be served concurrently.

Whoever commits the crime of vehicular homicide shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than five years nor more than thirty years. Whoever commits the crime of possession of hydrocodone shall be imprisoned for not more than 5 years.

April 15, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

TWO HAMMOND MEN SENTENCED TO LONG PRISON TERMS FOR

ARMED ROBBERY

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Willard Brumfield, 31, and Tyronne Morris, 25, both of Hammond, pled guilty as charged February 2, 2009, to armed robbery. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Richard Swartz set the sentencing for Brumfield and Morris for Wednesday, April 15, 2009. The victims of the armed robbery gave victim impact statements to the court prior to Judge Swartz sentencing Brumfield to 50 years in prison and Morris to 15 years in prison. The states case was prepared and presented by Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt.

Brumfield and Morris were arrested in June 2008 by the Louisiana State Police after a Mandeville loan business was robbed at gun point. Brumfield was armed with a pistol as he and Morris entered the business and demanded money from the employees. The robbers took the money in a blue bank bag and got away in a red Ford Expedition. State Troopers heard the description of the getaway car on the radio and identified the red Ford Expedition heading west on I-12 near Robert. The traffic stop was made and a blue bank bag and pistol were found. The two occupants were identified by the victims.

Morris and Brumfield must serve their sentences at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor from 10 to 99 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

April 9, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

BUSH MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED AFTER PROSECUTION RESTS

---GETS 25 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Gregory Dean Cowart, 42 of Bush, to aggravated burglary, two counts of indecent behavior with juveniles, 6 counts of voyeurism, and 4 counts of peeping tom. 22^nd Judicial District Court Judge Martin Coady accepted the guilty plea Wednesday, April 8, 2009, after the trial had been in progress for three days. The prosecution had rested when the defendant decided to plead guilty as charged. Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Harold Bartholomew, Jr. were in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Cowart was arrested in September 2007 by the Covington Police Department after he was caught near a home that had reported an intruder. Police found Cowart’s vehicle in a nearby parking and arrested him as he drove away. A knife was found in the vehicle that was taken from the complainant home.

Judge Coady sentenced Cowart as a career criminal to 25 years in prison at hard labor for aggravated burglary, a total of 24 years in prison for the two counts of indecent behavior with juveniles, and 6 months in prison for each of the 6 counts of voyeurism and 4 counts of peeping tom. Cowart has 4 prior convictions from 1997 to 2005 in Florida for burglary, prowling, resisting arrest, and aggravated assault. All sentences were ordered to be served concurrently.

Whoever commits the crime of aggravated burglary shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than one year nor more than thirty years. Whoever commits the crime of indecent behavior with a juvenile shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than two years nor more than twenty-five years.

April 8, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED CRIMINAL

DAMAGE TO PROPERTY WHERE LIFE IS ENDANGERED

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Tony Lambert, 36 of Covington, has been found guilty as charged of four counts of aggravated criminal damage to property and one count of illegal use of a weapon. Lambert was found not guilty of two counts of attempted first degree murder. Judge Martin Coady heard the case Wednesday, March 17, 2009, and Thursday, March 18, 2009, and rendered his verdict Wednesday April 8, 2009. The State’s case was presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Joey Oubre.

Lambert was arrested in March 2006 by the Covington Police Department after shots were fired outside a local restaurant in downtown Covington. Lambert was subdued immediately after he had fired rifle rounds into the side of the restaurant building and vehicles parked nearby.

Judge Coady ordered a pre-sentence investigation from probation and parole and will sentence Lambert May 18, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated criminal damage to property shall be fined not more than ten thousand dollars, imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than one nor more than fifteen years or both. Whoever commits the crime of illegal use of a weapon shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten nor more than twenty years without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

April 3, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED RAPE AND

MOLESTATION OF A JUVENILE

---FACES MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Dino Jay Schwertz, 42 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated rape and molestation of a juvenile. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 2 1/2 hours Thursday afternoon, April 2, 2009, before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Crain presided over the four day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Karen Middleton.

Judge Crain will sentence Schwertz on May 13, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated rape shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of molestation of a juvenile under age 13 shall be punished by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than 25 years and up to life in prison.

March 19, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MOTHER FOUND GUILTY OF SECOND DEGREE MURDER

----VICTIM IS HER THREE MONTH OLD SON----

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Lakeisha Adams, 22 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for about four hours Saturday, March 14th, 2009, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Burris presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Lewis Murray.

Adams was arrested in December 2005 by the Bogalusa Police for the murder of her son. Adams placed the baby in her clothes dryer where the child died of head trauma and burns. Adams pled not guilty by reason of insanity after she initially told police that she had seen someone else come into her home and commit the crime.

Judge Burris will sentence Adams Wednesday, March 25th, 2009. Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

March 6, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO DRUG CHARGES

---SENTENCED TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Zachary Martin, 33 of Covington, to distribution of cocaine. A 12 person St. Tammany Parish Jury had been selected and evidence presented before Martin decided to plead guilty as charged Thursday March 5, 2009. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Allison Penzato accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Martin to 20 years in prison at hard labor. Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Martin and three others were arrested by St. Tammany Sheriffs Deputies in July 2007 near Covington after they were recorded selling cocaine. Martin was the driver of the vehicle that was observed fronting the cocaine to a street middleman, Sally Miley, 53 of Covington. Miley sold the illegal drugs to undercover agents. Miley pled guilty to distribution of cocaine April 28, 2008, and was sentenced to 5 years in prison. The two other passengers in Martin’s car were James Davidson, 19 of Covington, and Darren Cousan, Jr., 24 of Abita Springs. Davidson pled guilty to possession of marijuana September 16, 2008, and was sentenced to 6 months in jail. Cousan failed to appear for his trial date and a warrant has been issued for his arrest.

Whoever commits the crime of distribution of cocaine shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than two nor more than thirty years.

February 6, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

CAREER CRIMINAL FOUND GUILTY OF DRUG CHARGE

---FACES LIFE IN PRISON---

Covington---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Wyrick Tyson, 30 of Mandeville, was found guilty of possession of cocaine. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty verdict after 9 minutes of deliberation Thursday, February 5, 2009. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Rick Swartz presided over the trial with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presenting the States case.

Tyson was arrested on July 31, 2007, by St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Deputies at his residence in Mandeville after he was caught on video and audio recordings making an illegal drug transaction in April 2007. When Deputies went to arrest Tyson they found cocaine in Tyson’s possession.

Judge Swartz will sentence Tyson March 16, 2009. Tyson could face life in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Tyson has prior convictions for possession of marijuana in 2002 and burglary in 1996.

February 5, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO DRUG CHARGES

WHILE JURY WAS DELIBERATING

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Tristan Laurent, 23 of Slidell, has pled guilty as charged to possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Laurent’s guilty plea came Tuesday, February 3^rd, 2009, while the Jury was in its 5^th hour of deliberation. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Rick Swartz accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Laurent to 12 years in prison at hard labor. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Laurent was arrested in March 2008 after a traffic stop was conducted by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office. Deputies found 45 grams of marijuana hidden on the defendant and in the defendant’s vehicle. Deputies also found a set of scales in the defendant’s vehicle.

Whoever commits the crime of possession with intent to distribute marijuana shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than thirty years and pay a fine of not more than fifty thousand dollars.

January 26, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

TWO MEN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED

----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Stacey Barsock, 33 of Slidell, and Zachary Martin, 32 of Covington, were both found guilty as charged in separate trials last week.

Barsock was found guilty on Friday, January 23, 2009, of possession of cocaine, battery of a police officer and resisting arrest. Barsock was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office on July 18, 2007 after deputies observed Barsock drop cocaine to the ground. Barsock became combative as deputies arrested him. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Rick Swartz presided over the trial with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presenting the States case. Whoever commits the crime of possession of cocaine shall be imprisoned up to five years and required to pay a fine of up to five thousand dollars. Barsock could face life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Basock has prior convictions for simple burglary of an inhabited dwelling in 2005, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling in 2005, and aggravated battery in 1996.

Martin was found guilty on Wednesday, January 21, 2009, of aggravated flight from an officer and possession of marijuana. Martin was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office on July 6, 2008, after he fled the scene of a traffic stop June 30, 2008. Martin refused to pull over and deputies finally stopped Martin’s car after a chase and crash. Martin dropped a bag of drugs as he ran from the scene on foot. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Rick Swartz presided over the trial with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presenting the States case. Whoever commits aggravated flight from an officer shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than two years. Martin is facing up to 4 years in prison if found to be a career criminal. Martin has a prior convictions for second degree battery in 2007, illegal possession of stolen things in 1999, aggravated flight from an officer in 1999, simple criminal damage to property in 1999, unauthorized use of a motor vehicle in 1999, and aggravated battery in 1999.

Both defendants will be sentenced by Judge Swartz on February 27, 2009.

January 9, 2009

NEWS RELEASE

TWO SLIDELL MEN PLEAD GUILTY AS CHARGED

---BOTH SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty pleas of Trevon Miller, 26, to attempted second degree murder and Damien McDaniels, 28, to forcible rape. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty pleas on Monday, January 5, 2009, with Assistant District Attorney Joey Oubre in charge of preparation and presentation of the states cases.

Miller was arrested in August 2008 by Slidell Police after he shot his girlfriend’s father with a hand gun. The victim was parked in his van at his sister’s house in Slidell in May 2008 when Miller and his girlfriend arrived. The victim left the van as Miller approached with a gun hidden by a towel. Miller shot at the victim hitting him in the leg. The victim made it to the hospital where the shooting was reported to the police.

McDaniels was arrested in Brookhaven, Mississippi, in January 2008 after he raped a female victim near Slidell. The victim was in town visiting friends when McDaniels arrived at the trailer in August 2007. The victim’s friends went inside to sleep and left McDaniels and the victim alone. McDaniels sexually assaulted the victim who was able to finally get away and wake up her friends. McDaniels fled to Mississippi while the victim went to the hospital and called police.

Judge Garcia sentenced Miller to 15 years in prison without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence and sentenced McDaniels to 15 years in prison with 2 years to be served without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. Attempted second degree murder is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than ten nor more than fifty years in prison without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Forcible rape is punishable by imprisonment at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years in prison with at least two years to be served without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

December 4, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY OF

MADISONVILLE MAYOR

----Could Face 198 Years in Prison----

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Charles Holcombe, 32 of Covington, was found guilty as charged of armed robbery of Mayor Peter Gitz, 73 of Madisonville. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for less than an hour before returning the guilty as charged verdict Thursday, November 20, 2008. 22^ndJudicial District Judge William Knight presided over the trial with Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall presenting the State’s case.

Holcombe was arrested at a traffic stop by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office in June 2006 after Mayor Gitz had been beaten and robbed. Gitz was closing his Madisonville restaurant for the day when Holcombe attacked him with a blunt instrument and took his wallet. Gitz spent time in the hospital and endured surgery to recover from his injuries.

In addition, Holcombe had illegals drugs in his vehicle when arrested at the traffic stop. Holcombe was found guilty in October 2007 for possession of those drugs and was sentence to 5 years in prison October 22, 2007.

Judge Knight will sentence Holcombe on December 10, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor from 10 to 99 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Holcombe could face sentencing from 49 ½ to 198 years in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Holcombe was convicted of aggravated battery in 1998.

December 4, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

BUSH MAN FOUND GUILTY OF OBSTRUCTION OF JUSTICE

----INVOLVED IN MURDER COVER-UP----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Zlatco “Zack” Brujic, 33 of Bush, has been found guilty as charged of obstruction of justice. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for less than an hour Wednesday, November 19, 2008, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Bruce Dearing.

Brujic was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office in connection with the 2001 murder of a female victim near Mandeville. Brujic used his vehicle to transport the killer out of the area.

Judge Childress will sentence Brujic December 16, 2008. Whoever commits obstruction of justice that involves a murder shall be imprisoned for up to 40 years at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence. If Brujic is found to be a habitual offender he could face 20 to 80 years in prison. Brujic was convicted of a felony drug charge in 2004, theft in 1998, and illegal possession of stolen things in 1998 all in Jefferson Parish.

November 6, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

22^ND DISTRICT COURT HAS BUSY WEEK

---THREE MEN FOUND GUILTY----ONE MAN PLEADS GUILTY---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Troy Jordan, 38 of Lafayette, Eddie Negron, 29 of Lacombe, and Randy Carson, 46 of Folsom, were all found guilty as charged in separate jury trials last week. Juan Toledo, 26 of Pearl River, pled guilty as charged prior to the start of the trial.

Jordan was found guilty as charged on Wednesday, October 29th, 2008, of possession of cocaine. Jordan was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office in November 2007 after the defendant was observed trying to discard cocaine as the police approached. Jordan and others were exiting a suspected cocaine distribution trailer when confronted by the police. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Burris presided over the one day trial with Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing presenting the States case. Judge Burris will sentence Jordan November 24, 2008. He faces 20 years to life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Jordan has prior convictions for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana in 2004, possession with intent to distribute marijuana in 2000, attempted first degree murder in 1996, and illegal possession of stolen things in 1988.

Negron was found guilty as charged on Thursday, October 30^th, 2008, of battery of a correctional facility officer. Negron was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office in September 2007 after he struck a jailer at the St. Tammany Parish Jail. Judge William Burris presided over the one day trial while Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the State’s case. Negron faces 20 years to life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Negron has prior convictions for burglary of an inhabited dwelling in 1999 and 1997, aggravated battery in 1997, simple burglary in 1997, and unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling in 1997.

Carson was found guilty as charged on Friday, October 31^st, 2008, of possession of cocaine, hydrocodone, oxycodone, and clonazepam. Carson was arrested by the Covington Police in June 2007 after his vehicle rear ended another vehicle. Illegal drugs were found in Carson’s trunk after a search by police. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Burris presided over the one day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing. If Carson is found to be a career criminal he could face 20 years to life in prison. Carson’s prior convictions include possession of cocaine in 2000 and distribution of chemicals in Florida in 1999. He also has numerous other Florida convictions and the state of Louisiana will file appropriate habitual offender charges on this defendant.

Toledo pled guilty as charged to vehicular homicide on Monday October 27, 2008. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green accepted the guilty plea and set sentencing for December 15, 2008. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case. Toledo was arrested by the Louisiana State Police in August 2006 after the passenger in his car was killed due to a crash. Toledo’s car sideswiped another car and then plunged off the twin spans into Lake Pontchartrain near Slidell. Toledo’s drug test revealed that he was driving under the influence of controlled dangerous substances. Whoever commits the crime of vehicular homicide shall be fined not less than two thousand dollars nor more than fifteen thousand dollars and shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than two years nor more than thirty years. At least one year of the sentence of imprisonment shall be imposed without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

November 6, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MAN FOUND GUILTY OF CRUELTY TO A JUVENILE

---Experts Testify Regarding “Shaken Baby Syndrome”---

Franklinton--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Julius Joseph “Jay” Smith, 35 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of second degree cruelty to a juvenile. A 12 member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for 2 hours Friday, October 31, 2008, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Julie Knight and Leigh Anne Wall.

Smith was arrested in December 2005 by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office for the physical abuse of a 2 ½ year old male victim. The offense took place on November 7, 2005, near Bogalusa while the defendant was babysitting the victim. The victim suffered from “shaken baby syndrome” and was rushed unconscious to the hospital in Bogalusa and then to Children’s Hospital in New Orleans for surgery. The child has permanent injuries due to this incident.

Judge Badeaux will sentence Smith December 1, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of second degree cruelty to a juvenile shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than forty years.

September 25, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN’S PRISON SENTENCE INCREASED

-----CAREER CRIMINAL GETS 90 YEARS -----

COVINGTON-- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Douglas Smith, 34 of Slidell, was sentenced September 18, 2008, to 90 years in prison at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia handed down the increased sentence after Smith was found to be a career criminal resulting from his habitual offender hearing. Smith was originally sentenced to 30 years in prison in December 2007 after being found guilty in November 2007 of attempted first degree robbery and three counts of armed robbery. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated ninety minutes before returning the guilty verdict to Judge Garcia. The State’s case was presented by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre.

Smith was arrested in November 2006 by Slidell Police after a four day crime spree. Smith robbed three people at gunpoint and attempted to rob someone else by threatening to have a gun before a victim was able to identify him from a picture in a yearbook. Police spotted Smith in a vehicle and gave chase arresting him after it crashed.

Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than 10 years and for not more than 99 years, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of attempted first degree robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than 20 years. Smith qualified as a career criminal due to prior convictions in 2001 for possession of schedule I drugs and fourth offense DWI.

September 18, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED TO ARMED ROBBERY

---GETS 35 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Mack Powe, Jr., 22 of Slidell, pled guilty as charged to armed robbery Thursday, September 18, 2007. The guilty plea was accepted by 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux after the jury was impaneled. Assistant District Attorneys Julie Knight and Leigh Anne Wall were in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s case.

Powe and an accomplice, Sydni Abernathy, 22 of Slidell, were arrested by Slidell Police in March 2008 after Powe used a pistol to rob a customer at a Slidell truck stop. Powe texted Abernathy, a cashier at the truck stop, to see if she thought he could come in and rob the customer. Abernathy allegedly sent a text reply to Powe telling him to proceed. Abernathy is awaiting trial on armed robbery charges.

Judge Badeaux sentenced Powe to 35 years in prison at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence for armed robbery. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than 10 nor more than 99 years without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

September 11, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

LACOMBE MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED RAPE

---FACES MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that John R. Crumholt, 58 of Lacombe, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated rape. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 3 hours Wednesday afternoon, September 10, 2008, before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Patricia Hedges presided over the three day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Ken Dohre and Gerald Alonzo.

Crumholt was arrested in March 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the minor female victim reported the sexual abuse to a family friend. The victim’s mother took the victim to the hospital and reported the incident to the police. The sexual abuse occurred from 2003 to 2007.

Judge Hedges will sentence Crumholt on November 5, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated rape shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

September 4, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

ALABAMA MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Joseph A. Martin, 33 of Shelby, Alabama, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 1 hour Thursday August 31, 2008, before returning the unanimous guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall.

Martin was arrested on September 8, 2006, by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office for the murder of a male victim near Slidell. The victim was struck several times in the head with a hammer causing massive injuries and then death. Drug usage was a major factor in the crime. The lifeless victim was found Wednesday, August 23, 2006, by family members at a storage facility after a four day search. Martin was arrested sixteen days later in Mississippi.

Judge Knight will sentence Smith October 13, 2008. Whoever commits second degree murder shall be imprisoned for life at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

August 26, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

WASHINGTON PARISH MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED

---SENTENCED TO 25 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Troy Seeger, 43 of Franklinton, to vehicular homicide and vehicular negligent injuring. Seeger also pled guilty to possession of a control dangerous substance by fraud in a separate case. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty pleas on Monday, August 25th, 2008, and heard a victim impact statement from the victim’s family before sentencing. Assistant District Attorney Joey Oubre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Seeger was arrested in August 2005 by Causeway Police after a two vehicle crash on the Causeway. Seeger was traveling north bound in a van near mile marker 19 when he ran into the back of a car that was moving slowly due to a flat tire. The driver of the car died and a passenger was injured due to the collision. Seeger was found to be driving under the influence of drugs. Seeger was arrested in April 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after a federal investigation revealed that he gained possession of controlled drugs by fraud in March 2005.

Judge Garcia sentenced Seeger to 25 years in prison with 5 years to be served without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence for vehicular homicide, 5 years in prison for vehicular negligent injuring, and 5 years in prison for possession of a controlled dangerous substance by fraud. Judge Garcia ordered the sentences to be served concurrently.

August 12, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

NEW ORLEANS MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

---ACCOMPLICE PLEADS GUILTY TO MANSLAUGHTER----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Glen Carter, 18 of New Orleans, has been found guilty as charged of 2nd degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 14 hours before returning the guilty verdict Saturday Morning at 2 A.M. 22^d Judicial District Judge William Burris presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Special Assistant District Attorney Gerry Alonzo.

Carter and three accomplices were arrested in May 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office for the murder of a male victim. The shooting occurred near Slidell during a robbery attempt at a trailer that housed several workers. One accomplice, Edric Cooper, 20 of Slidell, pled guilty to manslaughter on Monday, August 11, 2008, before his trial was scheduled to begin. The two other alleged accomplices, Grant Gethers, 19 of New Orleans, and Jace Colby Washington, 20 of Slidell, are awaiting trial on second degree murder charges.

Judge Burris will sentence Carter September 12, 2008. Whoever commits 2nd degree murder shall be imprisoned for life without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence. No date has been set for Cooper to be sentenced for manslaughter. Whoever commits manslaughter shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than forty years.

August 8, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEX CRIMES

---SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed announces the guilty pleas of Rickey Odom, 37 of Alabaster, Alabama, to forcible rape and attempted forcible rape. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress accepted the guilty pleas on Friday August 8, 2008, and sentenced Odom to 15 years in prison on each charge. Odom was originally charged with aggravated rape and attempted aggravated rape. The female victim, now 19, agreed with the plea agreement and made a victim impact statement. Judge Childress ordered the sentences to run concurrently. Assistant District Attorney Ken Dohre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Odom was arrested in July 2003 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the sexual abuse was reported by the victim’s mother. The victim was afraid to report the abuse that happened in late March and early April 2003 until the defendant had fled to Alabama. The U.S. Marshall’s Service caught Odom in Alabama and returned him to Louisiana.

Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of attempted forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more that 20 years.

August 7, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

TWO MEN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Marty Lee, 45 of Lumberton, Mississippi, and Manuel Sam Webber, 48 of Lacombe, were both found guilty as charged in separate trials this week.

Lee was found guilty on Tuesday, August 5, 2008, of simple robbery. Lee was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office in March 2008 after he took a male victim’s wallet from his back pocket and ran out the door of a local Covington restaurant. The victim was able to catch Lee and hold him until deputies arrived. A six person St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated about an hour before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presented the States case. Whoever commits simple robbery shall be fined not more than three thousand dollars, imprisoned with or with hard labor for not more than seven years, or both. Lee is facing up to 14 years in prison if found to be a career criminal. Lee has a prior conviction for possession of cocaine in 2007

Webber was found guilty on Wednesday, August 6th, 2008, of theft. Webber was arrested by Slidell Police in August 2006 after he and two accomplices shoplifted a local department store. Webber was observed by police carrying stolen items to his car. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated less than thirty minutes before returning the guilty verdict to Judge Green. Assistant District Attorney Hoffstadt presented the States case. The two accomplices, Shantrelle Boutrin, 29 of Slidell, and Webber’s sister, Debbie Webber, 38 of Slidell, pled guilty to theft in July 2007 and were both sentenced to 3 years probation. Boutrin was the lookout and Debbie Webber drove the car.

Whoever commits the crime of theft shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not more than 10 years, or may be fined not more than three thousand dollars, or both. Webber could face 20 years to life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Webber has prior convictions for manslaughter in 1988, purse snatching in 1988 and unauthorized use of an access card in 1988.

August 4, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

FORMER STATE PROBATION OFFICER PLEADS GUILTY

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Shannon Stewart, 40 of Franklinton, pled guilty as charged Monday, August 4^th, 2008, to three counts of sexual battery and four counts of malfeasance in office. The jury trial was about to begin when the defendant decided to plead guilty. 22^nd Judicial Judge Reggie Badeaux sentenced Stewart to 5 years in prison on each count and ordered the prison terms to be served concurrently. Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Stewart was indicted by a St. Tammany Parish Grand Jury on August 16, 2006, after an investigation by Louisiana Probation and Parole. Stewart was a former Probation Officer who sexually abused three female victims he was supervising. The malfeasance charges involved his conduct as a public officer and violating rules dealing with improper handling of seized drugs and drug paraphernalia and stalking and threatening victims.

This case investigation began when another former Probation Officer, Scott Weiler, was charged and pled guilty to malfeasance in office and obstruction of justice charges earlier in 2006 and 2007. Weiler had phone sex with a female victim he was supervising, helped her avoid bad drug screens, gave her jewelry, and did not arrest her for committing crimes. Weiler served two years in prison and began serving five years of supervised probation upon his release.

August 4, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

THREE MEN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED LAST WEEK

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Randy Desalvo, 39 of Slidell, Darryl Johnson, 22 of Ponchatoula, and Troy Batiste, 44 of Lacombe, were all found guilty as charged in separate trials last week.

Desalvo was found guilty on Tuesday, July 29^th, 2008, of a convicted felon possessing a firearm and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Desalvo was arrested by Slidell Police in February 2008 after a traffic stop. Police saw a gun and smelled marijuana. Several guns and a pound of marijuana were found. A 12 member St.Tammany Parish Jury deliberated two hours before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge Donald Fendlason. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presented the States case. Judge Fendlason sentenced Desalvo to 10 years in prison for each charge and ordered that they be served concurrently.

Johnson was found guilty on Wednesday, July 30^th, 2008, of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. Johnson was arrested by Mandeville Police in May 2007 after a traffic stop for not having the license plate properly displayed on his motorcycle. The motorcycle was found to be stolen out of Tangipahoa Parish. A 6 member jury returned the guilty verdict to Judge Fendlason. Assistant District Attorney Hoffstadt presented the States case. Whoever commits the crime of unauthorized use of a motor vehicle shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than ten years or both.

Batiste was found guilty on Friday, August 1^st, 2008, of second degree battery and aggravated criminal damage to property. Batiste was arrested in July 2001 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’ Office after he beat a man and damaged his vehicle due to road rage. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about 2 hours Friday, before returning the guilty verdicts. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Elaine DiMiceli presided over the 4 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew Jr. If Batiste is found to be a career criminal he could face life in prison. Batiste’s prior convictions include aggravated battery in 1987, second degree battery in 1991, and illegal use of weapons in 1982.

July 31, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Virgil Smith, 47 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of first degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 2 hours Friday July 25, 2008, before returning the unanimous guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner.

Smith was arrested in 2001 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office for the murder of a female victim. The victim was found lifeless on the floor of her mobile home by family members. Smith fled to Arizona where he was arrested 3 weeks later. Smith is presently serving life in prison as a career criminal for unrelated convictions.

Judge Coady will sentence Smith August 20, 2008. Whoever commits first degree murder shall be imprisoned for life without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

July 22, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

Legislative Delegation Receives Praise from District Attorney Reed

District Attorney Walter P. Reed of Washington and St. Tammany Parishes thanked the members of the Legislative Delegation for all of their support for the District Attorney’s Legislative Package during the recent session.

“Working together on law enforcement and prosecution issues that benefit the entire State as well as our local communities was successful this past session.” Reed stated. Representative John Schroder was a primary author on four (4) of the endorsed District Attorney Bills and all members of the Delegation moved these Bills through Committees and House and Senate Floors with great skill.

“I was able to personally meet with our entire Delegation through the efforts of Senator Jack Donahue on a regular basis. All of our Senators and Representatives were available, easy to contact and ready for Bill presentations during the progress of the Legislative session.” Reed continued.

“The energetic new members of our Delegation and the experience of our veteran members established new laws for two (2) Assistant District Attorney positions for our District as well as new statutes for the Children’s Advocacy Center and sex abuse cases along with the expansion of victim services.

A major feature of this recent session was the funding of toxicology laboratories in order to reduce Court delays statewide. I appreciate their hard work and interest in law enforcement and prosecution issues.” Reed concluded.

CONTACT: RICK WOOD 985-809-8366

July 11, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

FRANKLINTON MAN FOUND GUILTY OF TWO AGGRAVATED RAPES

---FACES MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON---

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Boris Stogner, 28 of Franklinton, has been found guilty as charged of two aggravated rapes. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for nearly two hours Thursday afternoon, July 10, 2008, before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the four day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall.

Stogner was arrested in February 2006 by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office after one of the two female victims reported the sexual abuse to her principal at school. The office of community services and the Sheriffs office were notified. The sexual abuse began in 2005 and continued until 2006.

Judge Knight will sentence Stogner on August 12, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated rape shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

July 8, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

MISSISSIPPI MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED

---SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Steven Cortez, 36 of Kiln, Mississippi, to vehicular homicide and hit and run driving. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green accepted the guilty plea on Monday, July 7, 2008, after hearing three victim impact statements from the victim’s family. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Cortez was arrested in August 2006, by Slidell Police after he ran over a pedestrian in west Slidell. The female victim was walking home from work just after midnight near a highway 190 bridge when she was hit by the defendant’s vehicle and died as a result. Cortez left the scene after the crash and proceeded home. Cortez was arrested a few days later admitting to the crime and that he had been drinking that night.

Judge Green sentenced Cortez to 15 years in prison with 5 years to be served without the benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. Judge Green also sentenced Cortez to 10 years in prison for hit and run driving and ordered the two sentences to be served concurrently. Judge Green also ordered Cortez to pay a fine of five thousand dollars and make restitution to the victim’s family.

Whoever commits the crime of vehicular homicide shall be fined not less than two thousand dollars nor more than fifteen thousand dollars and be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than two years nor more than thirty years. At least one year of the sentence of imprisonment shall be imposed without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

July 3, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

GUILTY VERDICTS IN EACH PARISH

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Roderick Griffin, 37 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of distribution of cocaine. Griffin was convicted of this crime in October 2006 but appealed and was granted a new trial. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for an hour Wednesday, June 24, 2008, before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Elaine Dimiceli presided over the two day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Harold Bartholomew.

Griffin was arrested in May 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Deputies after he was caught on video tape selling cocaine. An undercover deputy bought cocaine from Griffin while under surveillance. 28.6 grams of cocaine were found in Griffin’s vehicle.

Judge Dimiceli will sentence Griffin on July 22, 2008. Griffin was found to be a career criminal in 2006 and has been in jail serving 30 years for the first conviction. Whoever commits the crime of distribution of cocaine shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than two nor more than thirty years, with the first two years of said sentence being without benefit or parole, probation, or suspension of sentence, and may, in addition, be sentenced to pay a fine of not more than fifty thousand dollars

FRANKLINTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Demetri Brown, 41 of Franklinton, was found guilty Tuesday, June 24, 2008, of aggravated battery. The Washington Parish Jury deliberated two hours before returning the guilty verdict to Twenty-Second Judicial District Judge William Burris. Assistant District Attorney Shea Penton presented the State’s case.

Brown was arrested on December 10, 2006 by Washington Parish Sheriffs Deputies after a shooting at a local bar. Brown fired ten shots and hit the victim seven times. The Deputies found Brown punched out on the floor when they arrived.

Judge Burris will sentence Brown on August 22, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated battery shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars, imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than ten years, or both.

June 19, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA CAREER CRIMINAL FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED

--COULD FACE LIFE IN PRISON--

FRANKLINTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ronald Kyles, 43 of Bogalusa, was found guilty as charged Tuesday, June 17, 2008, of simple burglary. A six person Washington Parish Jury deliberated ninety minutes before returning the guilty verdict to Twenty-Second Judicial District Judge Elaine Dimiceli. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the State’s case.

Kyles was arrested on February 9, 2006 by Bogalusa Police after a burglary at a local residence. A neighbor called police when she saw Kyles taking a television from the residence to a car. Kyles was arrested later that day at a friends home after the getaway car was spotted parked outside.

Judge Dimiceli will sentence Kyles on July 21, 2008. Kyles will face life in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Kyles has prior convictions for theft in 1998, possession of stolen property twice in 1995, and burglary in 1995 and 1994.

Whoever commits the crime of simple burglary shall be fined not more than two thousand dollars, imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than twelve years, or both.

June 6, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports a very busy week for the 22^ndJudicial District Court.

• Robert Smith, 30 of Harvey, Cornell Moore, 26 of New Orleans, and Ronnie Carter, 19 of New Orleans pled guilty as charged Monday, June 2, 2008, to armed robbery with a firearm. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia sentenced each of the three men to 25 years in prison at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Each defendant was sentenced to 20 years for the armed robberies and an extra 5 years for the use of a firearm. The three men and Kerri Smith, 22 of New Orleans, robbed a Slidell bank in September 2006. Kerri Smith was found guilty as charged by a St. Tammany Jury on April 23, 2008, and was sentenced May 12, 2008, to 35 years in prison by 22^ndJudicial District Judge Peter Garcia. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

• Dino Schwertz, 41 of Slidell, pled guilty as charged to bank fraud in September 1993 and has been serving 5 years probation. Schwertz’s probation was revoked on Tuesday, June 3, 2008, by Judge Peter Garcia due to Schwertz being arrested in March 2008 for aggravated rape. Judge Garcia sentenced Schwertz to 10 years in prison.

• Patrick Ducre, 39 of Slidell, was sentenced Tuesday, June 3, 2008, as a career criminal to life in prison at hard labor without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence by 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia. Ducre has convictions for attempted possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of marijuana 2^nd offense in April 2008, possession of cocaine in July 2002, and distribution of cocaine in July 2002.

FRANKLINTON---

• Eric Brister, 39 of Bogalusa, was sentenced Wednesday, June 4, 2008, as a career criminal to life in prison at hard labor without the possibility of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence by 22^nd Judicial District Judge Donald Fendlason. Brister was arrested by Bogalusa Police in July 2004 after an undercover policeman bought cocaine from him while under video surveillance. As a result, Brister pled guilty to distribution of cocaine in April 2007 and also pled guilty to a June 2003 charge of distribution of cocaine. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner was in charge of preparation and presentation of the States case. Brister also has convictions for conspiracy to distribute cocaine in 2004, three convictions for distribution of cocaine in 1997, and two convictions for possession of cocaine in 1997.

May 27, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

NEW ORLEANS FIREMAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED FLIGHT

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Irving Bubeck, 59 of St. Rose, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated flight from an officer. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the half-day trial, Monday, May 27, 2008, with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight.

Bubeck was arrested in March 2007 by the Louisiana State Police after a chase on interstate 12 in western St. Tammany Parish. Bubeck was riding his motorcycle on I-12 traveling east in Tangipahoa Parish when he came upon slow traffic due to an accident. Bubeck and another motorcyclist were passing the line of traffic on the shoulder when State Troopers ordered them to stop. The other cyclist stopped but Bubeck sped off and ran from Troopers at a speed in excess of 100 miles per hour while weaving in and out of traffic. State Troopers pursued Bubeck and were finally able to stop him after several miles into St. Tammany Parish.

Judge Badeaux sentenced Bubeck to 10 days in jail, 1 year probation, drug screens, and a $250 fine. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated flight from an officer shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than 2 years.

May 27, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF DRUG CHARGES

---FACING 20 YEARS TO LIFE AS CAREER CRIMINAL--

FRANKLINTON --- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Leonard Blackburn, 43 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of hydrocodone. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for about an hour Thursday, May 22, 2008, before returning the guilty verdicts. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the 2 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall.

Blackburn and Jasmine Brown, 26 of Bogalusa, were arrested in January 2008 after a traffic stop was made in south Bogalusa by the Bogalusa Police Street Crimes Unit and Washington Parish Drug Task Force. Officers pulled Brown’s car over after she was identified as wanted on drug charges. The officers found cocaine and hydrocodone in the vehicle. Brown pled guilty to possession of cocaine and possession of hydrocodone Monday May 19, 2008 and Judge Knight sentenced her to 5 years probation and drug court.

Judge Knight will sentence Blackburn, June 17, 2008. Blackburn faces 20 years to life in prison if found to be a career criminal. Blackburn has prior convictions for possession of cocaine and marijuana in 2004, possession of cocaine in 2001, and possession of cocaine in 1999.

Whoever is convicted of possession with intent to distribute cocaine shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than 2 nor more than 30 years, with the first two years of said sentence being without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence; and may, in addition, be sentenced to pay a fine of not more than fifty thousand dollars. Whoever is convicted of possession of hydrocodone shall be imprisoned for up to 5 years and may be required to pay a fine of not more than five thousand dollars.

May 22, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

PEARL RIVER MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ROBBERY

--COULD FACE UP TO 80 YEARS AS A CAREER CRIMINAL--

COVINGTON-- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Gary Perez, 40 of Pearl River, was found guilty of first degree robbery Tuesday, May 20, 2008. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated two hours, before returning the guilty verdict to 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Burris. The State’s case was presented by Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing.

Perez was arrested in June 2005 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the robbery of a convenience store with a stun gun. Perez was originally charged with armed robbery but was found guilty of first degree robbery when the stun gun was deemed not to be a dangerous weapon. Perez ran from the store with about $200 into an apartment complex and was later identified from photos captured by the store cameras.

Judge Burris will sentence Perez on August 8, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of attempted first degree robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than 3 nor more than 40 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of imposition or execution of sentence.

The defendant could face from 27 to 80 years in prison if found to be a habitual offender. Perez has prior convictions for unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling in 1997 in St. Bernard Parish, and for possession of cocaine and marijuana in 1999 in Orleans Parish.

May 12, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

FOLSOM MAN FOUND GUILTY OF TWO AGGRAVATED RAPES

---FACES MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Clarence Sanders, 55 of Folsom, has been found guilty as charged of two aggravated rapes. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about 50 minutes Friday afternoon, May 9, 2008, before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Donald Fendlason presided over the four day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Gerald Alonzo and Scott Gardner.

Sanders was arrested in November 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after one of the victims reported the sexual abuse to her parents. They called the father of the other victim who called the police. The sexual abuse began in 2004 and continued until 2006.

Judge Fendlason will sentence Sanders on June 19, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated rape shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

April 28, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

NEW ORLEANS MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY

---ADDITIONAL FIREARM PENALTY INCLUDED---

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kerri Smith, 22 of New Orleans, was found guilty as charged of armed robbery and commission of an armed robbery with a firearm by a 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury. The jury deliberated about 10 minutes before returning the guilty verdict Wednesday April 23, 2008 to 22^ndJudicial District Judge Peter Garcia. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre presented the State’s case.

Smith was arrested in September 2006 just after an armed robbery occurred at a local bank in Slidell. Smith and 3 accomplices held up the bank at gunpoint and left with about $40,000 dollars. An off duty police officer called the Slidell Police and followed the robbers as they fled the area. The robbers ran a red light and crashed into another vehicle and were soon apprehended.

Judge Garcia will sentence Smith on May 12, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor from 10 to 99 years without the benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. When a firearm is used in the commission of the armed robbery, the offender shall be imprisoned at hard labor for an additional period of 5 years without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. The additional penalty shall be served consecutively to the sentence imposed for the armed robbery.

April 25, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

MANDEVILLE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO SEX CRIME

---SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Kenneth Sargent, 35 formerly of Mandeville, to forcible rape. 22^nd Judicial District Judge William Knight accepted the guilty plea on Wednesday April 23, 2008, and sentenced Sargent to 30 years in prison at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

Sargent was arrested for aggravated rape by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office in July 2006 while serving 10 years in prison for a 2003 aggravated battery conviction. The female victim reported to a friend in early 2006 that she had been raped by the defendant in 2001. The victim and her family agreed with the plea agreement and were present in the courtroom for sentencing.

April 22, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

Franklinton--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Darrin Raiford, 27 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A 12 member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for 3 hours Wednesday evening, April 16, 2008, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Elaine DiMiceli presided over the trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Gregg Briese.

Raiford was arrested in July 2006 by the Bogalusa Police Department for the murder of Dagrick Moses of Bogalusa. The murder took place in the Sunset Acres Apartments area of west Bogalusa. An apartment resident saw Raiford fire several shots into the victim’s vehicle.

Judge DiMiceli will sentence Raiford May 15, 2008. Whoever commits second degree murder shall be imprisoned for life without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

April 1, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

MISSISSIPPI MAN PLEAD GUILTY TO SEX CRIMES

---SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed announces the guilty plea of Daniel Homola, 35 of Laurel, MS, to forcible rape, attempted forcible rape, and two charges of molestation of juveniles. A 12 person St. Tammany Parish Jury had been selected when Homola decided to plead guilty as charged Monday, March 31, 2008. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Homola to 30 years in prison for forcible rape, 20 years in prison for attempted forcible rape, and 15 years in prison for each molestation of a juvenile charge. Judge Garcia ordered the sentences to run concurrently. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the states case.

The two female victims, 22 and 23, were present in court and heard the defendant admit to the charges. Each victim told the court that they agreed with the proceedings and were satisfied with the sentence.

Homola was arrested in May 2006 after the sexual abuse was reported in 2001. The crimes were committed from 1997 to 2001 when the victims were able to get away from the defendant and go to a neighbor who called police. Homola avoided arrest until 2006 when he was caught in Mississippi.

Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation parole, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of attempted forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more that 20 years. Whoever commits the crime of molestation of a juvenile shall be imprisoned for not less than one nor more than 15 years.

March 28, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO BATTERIES

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Willie Earl Johnson, Jr., 38 of Covington, has pled guilty as charged to second degree battery, aggravated battery, and crime against a person 65 years old or older. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green accepted the guilty plea and Assistant District Attorney Gerald Alonzo was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Johnson was arrested in May 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after he beat his girlfriend and her father. Johnson went home and began arguing with the woman and hit her in the face. Her elderly father came to her assistance and Johnson hit him in the head with a pistol. Both victims were transported to the hospital and Johnson was arrested at a traffic stop a short time later.

Judge Green sentenced Johnson to 5 years in prison for second degree battery, 7 years in prison for aggravated battery, and 3 years in prison for crime against a person 65 years of age or older. The sentences were ordered to run concurrently. Johnson was found to be a habitual offender due to a prior conviction for obscenity in 2001 and therefore will serve all 7 years with no benefits.

March 28, 2008

NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER

----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Daniel Richardson, 21 of Covington, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for 2 hours Wednesday evening, March 26, 2008, before returning the guilty verdict. 22^nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Julie Knight and Scott Gardner.

Richardson was arrested in October 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office for the murder of Quincy White, 28 of Covington. The murder took place in the Nursery Subdivision where Richardson and White lived. This subdivision is located near Abita Springs off Highway 36 but has a Covington address. The two argued on several occasions during the day and Richardson went home to get a gun. Richardson returned and was confronted by several people who tried to prevent him from attacking White. Richardson shot White several times and White died at the hospital.

Judge Badeaux will sentence Richardson April 19, 2008. Whoever commits second degree murder shall be imprisoned for life without benefit of parole, probation or suspension of sentence.

March 7, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED BATTERY
--FACES UP TO 20 YEARS IN PRISON--

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Larry Taylor, 28 of Covington, was found guilty on Thursday, March 6, 2008, of aggravated battery. 22nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux accepted the guilty verdict from the 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury. Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight presented the State’s case.

Taylor was arrested in June 2005 by the St.Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after he hit another man with an aluminum bat. The victim was helping Taylor’s estranged wife remove her belongings from the family mobile home in a Covington trailer park. Taylor went after the victim with the bat striking him several times and causing broken bones in his arm that required three surgeries.

Judge Badeaux will sentence Taylor on March 19, 2008. Whoever commits an aggravated battery shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars, imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than ten years, or both. Taylor was also convicted of aggravated battery in 2001 and could face an enhanced sentence of five to twenty years in prison if found to be a habitual offender.

March 7, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON MAN FOUND GUILTY OF COCAINE POSSESSION
--FACES 10 YEARS AS CAREER CRIMINAL—

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Cecil Pouncey, 43 of Covington, has been found guilty as charged of possession of cocaine. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about an hour Tuesday, March 4, 2008, before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over the trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Joseph Oubre and Brian Trainor.

Pouncey was arrested in October 2007 by the Covington Police Department after a traffic stop. Police observed Pouncey conducting a drug transaction from his vehicle in Covington. Police followed Pouncey and made the traffic stop after Pouncey committed two driving violations. Cocaine was found in Pouncey’s cigarette case.

Judge Garcia will sentence Pouncey on March 18, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of possession of cocaine shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than five years, and a fine of not more than five thousand dollars, or both. Pouncey was also convicted of cocaine possession in 2002. If Pouncey is found to be a habitual offender he could face an enhanced sentence of two and one half years to ten years in prison.

February 26, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ARMED ROBBERY
---SENTENCED TO 12 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Mohammed Diokhane, 18 of Slidell, pled guilty as charged on Monday, February 11, 2008, to armed robbery. 22nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Diokhane to12 years in prison at hard labor. Assistant District Attorney Gerald Alonzo was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case.

Diokhane was arrested in August 2005 by the Slidell Police Department after he and two accomplices robbed a local Slidell restaurant employee at gunpoint. Diokhane and the gunman confronted the employee in the parking lot after receiving a call from the third man who was inside the restaurant. The caller advised Diokhane and the gunman that the employee had a bag of cash disguised as a bag of food and was taking it to her car. The gunman took the bag from the employee and he and Diokhane fled the scene. The two robbers quickly discovered that the bag only contained food and left a trail of food packaging along their escape route. Slidell Police and St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Deputies caught Diokhane and the gunman shortly after in a nearby subdivision. The caller was arrested a few months later. The caller and gunman are awaiting trial.

Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten nor more than ninety-nine years.

February 26, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ATTEMPTED RAPE
---SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that John Q. Burris, 35 of Slidell, pled guilty on Monday, February 11, 2008, to attempted aggravated rape. 22nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Burris to 30 years in prison at hard labor. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case. The victim and her family were present in court and agreed with the plea agreement.

Burris was arrested in December 2006 by the St.Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office for the sexual abuse that occurred in August 2006. The victim told family members about the sexual abuse and it was subsequently reported to the Sheriff’s Office.

Whoever commits the crime of attempted aggravated rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten nor more than fifty years.

February 25, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL CONTRACTOR PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED
---DEFENDANT SENTENCED TO TEN (10) YEARS IN PRISON---

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Lamont Miles, 42, recently of Slidell but formerly of Orlando, Florida, has pled guilty as charged to 16 counts of theft over $500 and 1 count of issuing a worthless check. 22nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady accepted the guilty plea Monday, February 11, 2008. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre was in charge of preparation and presentation of the State’s case. Judge Coady sentenced Miles to 10 years in prison on each charge. The court ordered the sentences to be served simultaneously.

Miles was arrested in May 2006 by Slidell Police and originally charged with three counts of theft. Miles was in Slidell following Hurricane Katrina to do home repair. Miles entered into contracts with homeowners and took deposits but never did any work. Thirteen other charges involving thirteen additional victims were added to the case once the defendant’s name was publicized.

Whoever commits the crime of theft over $500 shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not more than ten years, or may be fined not more than three thousand dollars, or both. Whoever commits the crime of issuing worthless checks over $500 shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not more than ten years, or may be fined not more than three thousand dollars, or both.

February 19, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

FORMER MANDEVILLE MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FORCIBLE RAPE

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ehab Ahab Mohamed, 35 of Charleston, South Carolina, formerly of Mandeville, has been found guilty as charged of forcible rape. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about eight hours Wednesday, February 13, 2008, before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the three day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall.

Mohamed fled the country as the victim reported the rape to the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office in January 2007. The FBI arrested Mohamed in August of 2007 in South Carolina after he reentered the country. Mohamed was the manager of a local restaurant where the victim was an employee. Mohamed volunteered to drive the victim to look at used cars and to take her home. After looking at the cars Mohamed took the victim to his apartment near Mandeville where the rape occurred.

Judge Knight will sentence Mohamed on March 17, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of forcible rape shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than five nor more than forty years. At least two years of the sentence imposed shall be without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

February 15, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA CAREER THIEF GETS 12 YEARS

FRANKLINTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Jimmy Lee Brown, 51 of Bogalusa, pled guilty as charged to burglary of an inhabited dwelling, two counts of theft, and four counts of simple burglary Monday, February 11, 2008. Twenty-Second Judicial District Judge Patricia Hedges accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Brown to twelve years in prison. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner was in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s case.

Brown was arrested by Bogalusa Police in September 2007 after he was caught burglarizing an inhabited home. In 2006 and 2004 Brown was arrested for shoplifting at two different Bogalusa businesses. In 2005 Brown was arrested for simple burglary of a Bogalusa home. Police found that Brown had also burglarized three other homes in the Bogalusa area.

Judge Hedges sentenced Brown to twelve years in prison for burglary of an inhabited dwelling, two years on the theft counts, and twelve years for each charge of simple burglary. The Court ordered that the sentences to run concurrently.

Whoever commits the crime of burglary of an inhabited dwelling shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than one year nor more than twelve years. Whoever commits the crime of theft shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than two years, may be fined not more than two thousand dollars, or both. Whoever commits the crime of simple burglary shall be fined not more than two thousand dollars, imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than twelve years, or both.

January 31, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

COVINGTON BROTHERS PLEAD GUILTY TO POSSESSION OF MORE THAT 400 GRAMS OF COCAINE

---DEFENDANTS DECIDE DURING TRIAL---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Robert McQueen, 29 of Covington, pled guilty to possession of over 400 grams of cocaine and trafficking in proceeds from drug offenses. Damien McQueen, 27of Covington, pled guilty to possession of over 400 grams of cocaine and illegal carrying of weapons by a convicted felon. The trial was in its third day and the court had heard testimony from several witnesses for the state before the McQueens chose to plead guilty Wednesday, January 30, 2008. 22nd Judicial District Judge Donald Fendlason sentenced Robert McQueen to 20 years in prison at hard labor and Damien McQueen to 18 years in prison at hard labor. Both defendants were convicted as habitual offenders and are not eligible for parole for the first 15 years of their sentences. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

The McQueen brothers were arrested by St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Deputies in March 2006 after Deputies caught Damien McQueen in the act of receiving a shipment of 3 kilos (3000 grams or 6.6 pounds) of cocaine for his brother Robert. Damien McQueen threw his gun down as he ran from the crime scene but was caught after a short chase.

Whoever commits the crime of possession of over 400 grams of cocaine shall be sentenced to serve a term of imprisonment at hard labor of not less than fifteen years, nor more than thirty years and to pay a fine of not less than two hundred fifty thousand dollars, nor more than six hundred thousand dollars. The fines were suspended due to the lengthy jail sentences imposed.

January 14, 2008
NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SECOND DEGREE MURDER

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kyle Harry, 33 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for about two hours Friday, January 11, 2008, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight.

Harry was arrested in January 2006 by the Bogalusa Police for the murder of a Bogalusa man. Harry believed the victim had stolen some illegal drugs from him. Harry and another man went to the victim’s residence in the Oneal Apartments on Magee Street in north Bogalusa. Harry murdered the victim by shooting him several times with a pistol. Harry and his accomplice got away before Police arrived.

Judge Badeaux will sentence Harry Thursday, February 7, 2008. Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

December 13, 2007
NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN SENTENCED TO 30 YEARS IN PRISON
--COULD FACE MORE AS CAREER CRIMINAL—

COVINGTON-- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Douglas Smith, 33 of Slidell, was sentenced to thirty years in prison for attempted first degree robbery and three counts of armed robbery. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated ninety minutes on November 6, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict to 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia. The State’s case was presented by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre.

Judge Garcia sentenced Smith to 30 years in prison on December 12, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than 10 years and for not more than 99 years, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of attempted first degree robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than 20 years.

The defendant could face from fifty to one hundred and sixty-eight years in prison if found to be a habitual offender at an upcoming hearing.

December 13, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Anson Holley, Jr., 38 of Slidell, was sentenced Wednesday, December 12, 2007, to 15 years in prison for molestation of a juvenile. A St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about an hour and a half Wednesday afternoon, October 24, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over the 2 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre.

Holley was arrested in January 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after the victim reported the sexual abuse to her father. The juvenile victim recalled and reported the abuse from 1999 after seeing the defendant for the first time in years.

Judge Garcia sentenced Holley to fifteen years in prison and suspended three years. Holley is to serve 5 years of probation upon release and register as a sex offender. Whoever commits the crime of molestation of a juvenile shall be fined not more than ten thousand dollars or imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not less than one nor more than fifteen years, or both.

December 5, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN SENTENCED TO 35 YEARS IN PRISON
--MAY FACE LIFE IN PRISON--

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Carl England, 46 of Slidell, was found guilty as charged of attempted second degree murder and aggravated burglary. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for two hours Wednesday, November 28, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the two day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall.

England was arrested in Gulfport, Mississippi, in February 2005 a week after he attacked a female victim near Slidell. England broke into the victim’s mobile home stabbing her several times. England also hit the victim with a hammer before fleeing to Mississippi. The St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office located England and the Gulfport Police returned him here to face the charges.

Judge Knight sentenced England on Tuesday December 4th, 2007, to thirty-five years in prison for attempted murder and fifteen years in prison for aggravated burglary. Judge Knight ordered the sentences to run concurrently. England could face life in prison if found to be a habitual offender at an upcoming hearing.

Whoever commits the crime of attempted second degree murder shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten nor more than fifty years without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated burglary shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than one nor more than thirty years.

November 27, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

FRANKLINTON MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED RAPE

FRANKLINTON --- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Buddy Marvin Hicks, 63 of Franklinton, has been found guilty as charged of 3 counts of aggravated rape by a 12 person Washington Parish Jury. The trial lasted 4 days from Tuesday November 13 through Friday November 16, 2007. The Jury deliberated nearly five hours before returning the guilty verdict to 22nd Judicial District Judge William Burris. Assistant District Attorney Shea Penton was in charge of preparing and presenting the State’s case.

Hicks was arrested in July 2006 by the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office after the sexual abuse that occurred in September 2005. The victim was observed by a family member acting out a sex act. The victim explained that the defendant had taught her to do that and the police were notified.

Judge Burris will sentence Hicks on December 12, 2007. If the district attorney does not seek a capital verdict, the offender shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

November 15, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

HAMMOND MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY

COVINGTON-- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Robert Latroy White, 41 of Hammond, has been found guilty as charged of armed robbery. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 20 minutes before returning the unanimous guilty verdict Wednesday November 14, 2007. 22nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green presided over the trial with the State’s case presented by Assistant District Attorney Gerry Alonzo.

White was arrested in May 2007 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after he committed an armed robbery near Covington. White was seen shoplifting some items at a local store and was confronted outside by the victim. White wielded a knife and was able to get away. The victim identified White from a photo lineup.

Judge Green will sentence White December 4th, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten years and for not more than ninety-nine years, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

November 15, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY

COVINGTON-- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Douglass Smith, 33 of Slidell, has been found guilty of attempted 1st degree robbery and 3 counts of armed robbery. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated 90 minutes before returning the guilty verdict to 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia. The State’s case was presented by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre.

Judge Garcia will sentence Smith on December 12, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than 10 years and for not more than 99 years, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of attempted 1st degree robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than 20 years.

November 15, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SUN MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Tommy Rowell, Sr., 39 of Sun, was sentenced to life in prison at hard labor Wednesday November 14, 2007, by 22nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress. Rowell was found guilty as charged of second degree murder by a 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury October 25th, 2007. The trial lasted 3 days with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Jack Hoffstadt and Scott Gardner.

Rowell was arrested in December 2004 by Covington Police for the murder of Thomas Talley, 30 of Covington. Rowell and Talley’s wife were out partying all night in New Orleans. Early the next morning they arrived at the Talley home in Covington Point subdivision and blew the vehicle horn until the victim came out of the house. Rowell shot Talley several times and exited the vehicle to shoot him twice in the head at close range.

October 29, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SUN MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF MURDER
----MANDATORY LIFE IN PRISON----

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Tommy Rowell, Sr., 39 of Sun, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for less than an hour Thursday evening, October 25th, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Raymond
Childress presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Jack Hoffstadt and Scott Gardner.

Judge Childress will sentence Rowell to mandatory life in prison at hard labor November 14, 2007.

October 24, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MOLESTATION OF A JUVENILE

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Anson Holley, Jr., 38 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of molestation of a juvenile. A St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about an hour and a half Wednesday afternoon, October 24, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over the 2 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre.

Judge Garcia remanded the defendant to the parish jail and will sentence him on December 12, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of indecent behavior with juveniles shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not more than seven years, or both.

October 24, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MANDEVILLE MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO NEGLIGENT HOMICIDE
---DEFENDANT DECIDES DURING TRIAL---

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Bradford Moore, 21 of Mandeville, to negligent homicide. The court had heard the testimony of the victim’s wife and several other witnesses for the state before Moore chose to plead guilty as charged. The victim’s wife agreed with the plea and gave a victim impact statement prior to 22nd Judicial District Court Judge William Knight’s sentencing. Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case.

Moore was arrested by the Louisiana State Police in February 2005 after he caused a collision with another vehicle. Moore’s vehicle crossed the center line and hit another car head on killing the driver. The crash happened on Highway 59 south of 1088 near Mandeville.

Judge Knight sentenced Moore to 2 years in prison at hard labor suspended and 3 years of active supervised probation. Judge Knight also ordered Moore to pay the victim’s funeral and monument costs, submit to random drug and alcohol screening every two months, and perform 40 hours of community service in a program that provides therapy to physically challenged children.

Whoever commits the crime of negligent homicide shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than five years, fine not more than five thousand dollars, or both.

October 24, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ECSTACY POSSESSION
--HABITUAL OFFENDER FACES LIFE IN PRISON--

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Tyree Young, Jr., 28 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of possession of the Schedule I drug ECSTASY. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for less than half an hour Tuesday, October 16th, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Elaine DiMiceli presided over the 1 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing.

Young appealed the 2005 conviction for this charge to the 1st Circuit Court of Appeal who granted him a new trial. The Appeal Court decided that Young should have had a twelve member instead of a six member jury and that the court could impose a life sentence.

Young was arrested on July 23, 2003, in Slidell by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after being found with illegal drugs. A Louisiana Probation Officer observed illegal drugs while arresting another man at a Slidell area residence. The sheriff’s office conducted a comprehensive search of the house and occupants and found Young with ECSTASY hidden in his shoe as well as cocaine in his possession. Young was found guilty as charged for the possession of cocaine in 2005.

Judge Dimiceli will sentence Young on November 16th, 2007. Young has prior convictions for possession of cocaine, possession of stolen things, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, and distribution of cocaine in 1997, and again for distribution of cocaine in 1999. Young is an habitual offender and faces up to life in prison due to these convictions.

October 10, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

KENNER MAN FOUND GUILTY OF FIRST DEGREE ROBBERY
--HABITUAL OFFENDER COULD RECEIVE LIFE IN PRISON---

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kenneth Jackson, 41 of Kenner, was found guilty of first degree robbery by a 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury. The jury deliberated an hour and a half before returning the guilty verdict Tuesday evening October 9, 2007, to 22nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the State’s case.
Jackson was arrested in Mississippi on November 2, 2006, for a robbery that occurred at a local mall parking lot. Jackson met the victim at the parking lot on October 2, 2006, to purchase a puppy but took all the animals in possession of the victim and fled. Jackson was originally charged with armed robbery because the victim originally reported she saw a gun.

Judge Coady will sentence Jackson on November 5, 2007. Jackson has prior convictions for possession of cocaine in 1998, burglary in 1992, possession of stolen property and theft in 1990, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling in 1988, and armed robbery in 1983. Jackson is an habitual offender and faces up to life in prison due to these convictions.

October 9, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MANDEVILLE MAN FOUND GUILTY OF 4TH DWI

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Harris Mentel, 28 of Mandeville, was found guilty as charged of a DWI, fourth offense or greater, and simple escape from the custody of the Mandeville Police Department. A 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the unanimous guilty verdict Thursday, September 27th, 2007, to 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre presented the State’s case.

Mentel was arrested by Mandeville Police April 19, 2007, after he caused a head-on crash on highway 59 near the Tammany Trace. Mentel admitted to drinking six or seven beers and failed the field sobriety test. A search of Mentel’s vehicle revealed open and unopened cans of beer.

Mentel will be sentenced October 17, 2007, by Judge Garcia. Whoever is convicted of a DWI fourth offense or greater shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than ten years nor more than thirty years and pay a fine of five thousand dollars.

October 3, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

RECENT GUILTY PLEAS RESULT IN LONG JAIL TERMS

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that David Dobbs, 28 of Slidell, was sentenced to 33 years in jail for forcible rape and Dennis Sawyer, 34 of Slidell, was sentenced to 20 years in jail for aggravated burglary in unrelated cases.

Dobbs pled guilty to forcible rape, an amended charge, after review of the evidence and consultation with the victims. 22nd Judicial District Court Judge Elaine DiMiceli accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Dobbs on Monday, September 10, 2007. Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing was in charge of the state’s case.

Dobbs was arrested in June 2005 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after being called by the mother of the female child victim. Dobbs was babysitting the victim when the sexual abuse occurred. The victim reported the abuse to her mother and law enforcement conducted the investigation which concluded with the arrest of Dobbs.

In the other case, Sawyer pled guilty on Monday, April 23, 2007, to the amended charge of aggravated burglary. Twenty-Second Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea in April and on Wednesday, September 5, 2007, sentenced Sawyer to 20 years in prison at hard labor. The male victim gave a verbal impact statement and the female victim’s impact statement was read by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre who presented the state’s case.

Sawyer was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office on August 1, 2005, after he unlawfully entered the residence of his estranged wife. Sawyer was armed with a gun as both occupants were awakened by the noise and found the defendant pointing his pistol at both of them. The man jumped at the defendant and wrestled the gun away as two shots were fired. The man and woman fled the residence and called for help. Sawyer was picked up a short time later.

“The amount of time and effort in preparing these cases for trial by my Assistant District Attorneys played a major role in the successful prosecution of these two offenders” DA Reed stated. “Without the long hours put in to collect evidence, interview witnesses, research the law, and in general to prepare for these complex cases, these long prison sentences could not have been imposed by the court” Reed concluded.

NEWS RELEASE
DISTRICT ATTORNEY WALTER REED
ANNOUNCES JURY TRIAL STATISTICS

Over the past nine (9) years the 22nd Judicial District covering Washington and St. Tammany Parishes has had over 100 jury trials per year throughout the District. District Attorney Walter Reed commended the felony division and all of its assistant district attorneys for this fine work. "We have maintained our goal of bringing to trial serious felony cases and the number of cases presented to a jury reflects a strong prosecutor's office and a devoted judiciary willing to protect our citizens," the DA commented.

The following statistics are reproduced from the Louisiana Supreme Court's Annual report.

Rank	Year	Parish	# of Trials

Rank 1	2006	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	103
Rank 2	2006	Orleans	92
Rank 3	2006	Caddo	73

Rank 1	2005	Orleans Parish	192
Rank 2	2005	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	109
Rank 3	2005	Jefferson	77

Rank 1	2004	Orleans Parish	221
Rank 2	2004	Jefferson Parish	178
Rank 3	2004	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	103

Rank 1	2003	Orleans Parish	172
Rank 2	2003	Jefferson Parish	170
Rank 3	2003	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	107

Rank 1	2002	Orleans	374
Rank 2	2002	Jefferson	200
Rank 3	2002	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	114

Rank 1	2001	Orleans	364
Rank 2	2001	Jefferson	204
Rank 3	2001	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	107

Rank 1	2000	Orleans	366
Rank 2	2000	Jefferson	200
Rank 3	2000	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	107

Rank 1	1999	Orleans	486
Rank 2	1999	Jefferson	206
Rank 3	1999	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	112

Rank 1	1998	Orleans	595
Rank 2	1998	Jefferson	220
Rank 3	1998	St. Tammany & Washington Parishes	103

The following is a link shows the trends in court activity in the State of Louisiana. Click here to view (.pdf format)

September 4, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MISSISSIPPI MAN FOUND GUILTY OF ARMED ROBBERY

AND MANSLAUGHTER

FRANKLINTON-- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Antwine Magee, 29 of Tylertown, Mississippi, has been found guilty of armed robbery and manslaughter. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for about four hours Friday, August 17, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22 nd Judicial District Judge Patricia Hedges presided over the week-long trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Lewis Murray.

Magee was arrested in January 2005 by the Washington Parish Sheriffs Office for his participation in the robbery and murder of a Washington Parish man. Magee and three others were at the victim’s residence to rob him and one of the other men shot the victim. Magee admitted to law enforcement his involvement in the crime.

Judge Hedges will sentence Magee October 8, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten years and for not more than ninety-nine years, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Whoever commits the crime of manslaughter shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more than forty years.

September 4, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

EX-MANDEVILLE COACH FOUND GUILTY OF INDECENT BEHAVIOR WITH A JUVENILE

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Nelson “Skip” Curtis, 58 of Covington, has been found guilty as charged of indecent behavior with a juvenile. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about 2 hours Friday, August 24, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22 nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over the 2 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre.

Curtis, a former Mandeville High School coach, was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office on February 10, 2007, after a complaint was lodged against him by a female juvenile employee. The victim worked for Curtis at the Boule’ Prime House Restaurant and told Deputies that Curtis had touched her in a sexually inappropriate way while at work.

Judge Garcia will sentence Curtis on September 25, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of indecent behavior with juveniles shall be fined not more than five thousand dollars or imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not more than seven years, or both.

August 17, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MICHIGAN MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Tony Massie, 44 of Plymouth, Michigan, was sentenced to life in prison Wednesday, August 15 th, 2007, by 22 nd Judicial District Court Judge Larry Green. Massie had been found guilty as charged of attempted simple robbery May 22, 2007. Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the state’s case.

Massie was arrested in May 2006 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after he attempted to rob a female victim that was giving him a ride home near Madisonville. Massie grabbed for the car keys and the victim fought him off and blew the horn until a passing motorist stopped. Massie fled the scene and was arrested the next day.

Massie was sentenced as a 4 th offense career criminal under the Habitual Offender Law. Massie has prior convictions in Michigan for unlawful driving away of an automobile, fleeing a police officer, criminal sexual conduct, and breaking and entering.

August 17, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

CAREER CRIMINAL GETS 25 YEAR PRISON SENTENCE

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Michael Small, 32 of Jacksonville, Florida to possession of over 400 grams of cocaine. The 7 th juror had just been selected when Small chose to plead guilty as charged. Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner was in charge of preparation and presentation of the state’s case before 22 nd Judicial District Court Judge Martin Coady.

Small was arrested in August 2005 by the Louisiana State Police after a traffic stop. Small and the other occupant gave conflicting stories about their trip from Arizona to Florida and a search of the vehicle produced the 9 pounds of cocaine from under the back seat.

District Attorney Reed commented that “a lifetime player in the cocaine game is now removed from this community. We must never slow down our efforts to stop illegal drugs,” Reed concluded.

Judge Coady sentenced Small to 25 years in prison as a 3 rd offense career criminal at hard labor with no parole or good time under the Habitual Offender Law. Small has prior convictions in Florida for cocaine trafficking and possession of cocaine.

August 8, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ARMED ROBBERY AT FOLSOM PHARMACY

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Timothy John Williams, Jr., 20 of Bogalusa, pled guilty as charged to 3 counts of armed robbery on Wednesday, August 1, 2007. Twenty-Second Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Williams, who had no prior felony convictions, to 10 years in prison without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Assistant District Attorney Julie Knight was in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s case.

Williams Jr. was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office in January 2007 after 3 people were robbed at gunpoint by two masked gunmen at a Folsom pharmacy. A large amount of drugs as well as the purse and car keys of a customer were stolen. One robber fled in a truck and the other robber followed in the customer’s stolen car. The car crashed a few miles down the road and the driver was picked up by the truck and the two robbers got away. The arrests were made a couple of weeks later after an intensive investigation.

The mastermind of these 3 armed robberies, Timothy Williams, Sr., is scheduled to go to trial before Judge Badeaux on Monday, November 26, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of armed robbery shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than ten years and for not more than ninety-nine years, without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

August 8, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

DOMESTIC VIOLENCE RESULTS IN SECOND DEGREE BATTERY

PEARL RIVER MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Jerry Allen, 51 of Pearl River, has been found guilty as charged of second degree battery that resulted from domestic violence. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about 2 hours Wednesday, August 1, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22 nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the 1 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt.

Allen was arrested by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office in March 2007 after he was involved in a domestic incident. Allen became angry during an argument and choked the victim until she became unconscious. The victim awoke and was able to escape to a family member’s home.

Judge Childress will sentence Allen October 4, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of second degree battery shall be fined not more than two thousand dollars or imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not more than five years or both.

July 18, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY AFTER SECOND WITNESS

District Attorney Walter Reed announces the guilty plea of James McKinley Miller, 39 of Slidell. Miller pled guilty as charged yesterday, July 17, 2007, during his trial for distribution of heroin and two counts of distribution of cocaine. The second witness for the state had finished testifying when the defendant decided to plead guilty. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presented the state’s case before 22 nd Judicial District Court Judge Patricia Hedges.

Miller was arrested in December 2006 by narcotics officers after they bought illegal drugs from him near Slidell. The undercover agents called Miller and were able to buy cocaine from him. The agents called Miller a second time a few days later and bought heroin and cocaine.

Judge Hedges sentenced Miller to 12 1/2 years in prison as a result of the guilty plea. Any person who is convicted of distribution of heroin shall be sentenced to imprisonment for not less that five nor more than fifty years at hard labor at least five years of which shall be served without benefit of probation, or suspension of sentence, and may, in addition, be required to pay a fine of not more than fifty thousand dollars. Any person convicted of distribution of cocaine shall be sentenced to a term of imprisonment at hard labor for not less than two years nor more than thirty years, with the first two years of said sentence being without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence and may, in addition, be sentenced to pay a fine of not more than fifty thousand dollars.

July 6, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

PURSE SNATCHER TARGETS ELDERLY

GETS 12 YEARS

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Curtis Fletcher, 43 of Slidell, pled guilty as charged to purse snatching Thursday, July 5, 2007. Twenty-Second Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Fletcher to 12 years in prison. The victim was in court ready and prepared to testify. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s case.

Fletcher was arrested by Slidell Police in March 2007 after he snatched the purse from an elderly victim. The 80 year old female victim was on a shopping trip and was heading back to her vehicle in the parking lot when Fletcher came from behind and took her purse. The victim was knocked to the ground but quickly got up to yell for help. Several “Good Samaritans” helped police to identify and capture the defendant as he was trying to flee.

“We pay particular attention to crime against our senior citizens,” D.A. Reed commented. “Our special unit for prosecution of offenders who prey on the elderly will continue to be aggressive with these type of cases,” Reed concluded.

Whoever commits the crime of purse snatching shall be imprisoned, with or without hard labor, for not less than two years and for not more than twenty years.

July 6, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

PEARL RIVER MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO RAPE

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Anthony Odom, 43 of Pearl River, pled guilty to forcible rape Thursday July 5, 2007. Twenty-Second Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress accepted the guilty plea and sentenced Odom to 20 years in prison at hard labor. The state presented to the court a victim impact statement through testimony from the victim who had to return to Louisiana from Alabama prior to the sentencing. Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt was in charge of preparing and presenting the State’s case.

Odom was arrested in May 2003 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office after he confessed to rape charges stemming from a rape that occurred just outside Pearl River in December 2000. The rape came to light after the victim had surgery and doctors reported to the victim’s family that there were signs of possible sexual abuse.

June 29, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MANDEVILLE MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that William Wayne Lee, 34 of Mandeville, has been sentenced to life in prison by 22 nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia. Lee was found guilty as charged of second degree murder Friday, February 9, 2007, by a twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury. The State’s case in the 5 day trial was presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Joseph Oubre.

Lee was arrested September 16, 2003 for the September 12, 2003, murder of his girlfriend, Audra Bland, 38 of Hammond. Lee and Bland were partying into the morning on the Mississippi gulf coast when they had a disagreement over Bland’s behavior. The two came to Lee’s parent’s residence in Mandeville around sunrise. Lee admitted putting an unconscious Bland to bed at 6 AM but was unsure what had happened to her. Lee had guests over all day but didn’t mention anything about Bland. Bland remained in bed all day until 911 was called too late at 9 PM. The autopsy revealed that Bland died from a blow to the back of the head.

Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

June 29, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF MURDER

FRANKLINTON --- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Waylon Turnage, 30 of Franklinton, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for about 45 minutes Thursday, June 28, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22 nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the 4 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Lewis Murray.

Turnage was arrested in April 2006 after he turned himself in to the Washington Parish Sheriffs Office. Turnage went to the victim’s home and armed himself with the victim’s pistol. Turnage shot the victim twice and took the gun, shell casings, and some of the victim’s personal items and left. Turnage confessed to the crime and led police to the murder weapon and other items he had taken from the victim’s home.

Judge Childress will sentence Turnage July 18, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

June 13, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MAN GETS LONG PRISON TERM

FRANKLINTON-----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that August Varnado, 59 of Bogalusa, was sentenced Monday, June 11, 2007, to 20 years in prison. 22 nd Judicial District Court Judge Raymond Childress gave Varnado the prison time after he was found guilty as charged in March 2007 on three counts of attempted aggravated kidnapping. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the states case.

Varnado was arrested by Bogalusa Police and Louisiana Probation and Parole Officers in July 2005 after he tried to lure 3 minor victims into his car. The mother of two of the victims reported the incidents to police. Over the next 24 hours Bogalusa Police were able to identify the suspect from victim descriptions and vehicle information collected from witnesses. Two Probation Officers were notified that the suspect was on probation and they immediately came to Bogalusa to aid in the arrest. Varnado is a registered sex offender.

Varnado has a prior conviction for obscenity in 2004 and the current convictions on 3 counts of attempted aggravated kidnapping qualified him for the D. A. career criminal program as a multiple offender. Judge Childress gave Varnado 10 years for count 1, 10 years for count 2, and 20 years for count three due to the habitual offender law. Judge Childress ordered all three sentences to run simultaneously.

June 6, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

CAREER CRIMINAL DIVISION ACTIVE WITH PROSECUTIONS

LONG PRISON TERMS IMPOSED

COVINGTON-----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that CHRISTOPHER BUCKENBERGER, 53 of Shreveport, DAVID SOSA, 36 of Houston, and RICHARD LAY, 48 of Covington, were recently sentenced in unrelated cases in 22 nd Judicial District Court. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the states cases.

Judge Elaine DiMiceli sentenced defendant Buckenberger to life in prison without benefit of parole for attempted 2 nd degree murder, attempted forcible rape, and second degree kidnapping. Buckenberger was arrested in February 2006 by a Madisonville Policeman who observed Buckenberger attacking the kidnapped female victim at the Madisonville boat launch. A witness stepped forward to testify that Buckenberger had earlier tried to run over her with his vehicle. Buckenberger was found guilty March 15, 2007, and sentenced May 29, 2007. Buckenberger has prior convictions for second degree battery, escape, forcible rape, and sexual battery.

Judge Martin Coady sentenced defendant Sosa to 35 years in prison with 5 years without benefit of parole for possession of cocaine. Sosa was arrested in January 2005 by the Louisiana State Police after a traffic stop. A search of Sosa’s vehicle produced 400 grams of cocaine hidden under the hood of the car. Sosa was found guilty August 24, 2006, and sentenced May 30, 2007. Sosa has prior convictions for aggravated robbery, possession of marijuana, resisting arrest, and possession of stolen property, and evading arrest.

Judge Coady also sentenced defendant Lay to 20 years in prison for attempted possession of cocaine. Lay was arrested in April 2004 by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriffs Office after attempting to purchase cocaine from an undercover narcotics officer. Lay was found guilty March 29, 2007, and sentenced May 31, 2007. Lay has prior convictions for possession of cocaine in a school zone, theft, possession of stolen property, and forgery.

“These defendants have shown that they cannot live by the rules of society,” D.A. Reed commented. “The long prison terms are justified and appropriate for the crimes committed and the previous criminal behavior of these individuals,” Reed concluded.

June 6, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

DRIVE-BY SHOOTER FOUND GUILTY

Covington--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that WILLIAM PANTER, 26 of Slidell, has been found guilty as charged of 2 counts of drive-by-shooting. A six member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated less than two hours Tuesday, June 5, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22 nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the 2 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre.

Panter was arrested in December 2006 by Slidell Police after he fired several shots into a car occupied by a male driver and his ex-girlfriend. Panter pulled up to the car and demanded it pull over. The driver refused and Panter shot the car several times and fled.

Judge Coady will sentence Panter July 16, 2007. Whoever commits an assault by drive-by-shooting shall be imprisoned for not less than 1 year nor more than five years, with or without hard labor, and without benefit of suspension of sentence.

May 14, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

JURY TRIALS STARTED IN 22 ND JUDICIAL DISTRICT---DEFENDANTS PLEAD GUILTY AFTER CASES BEGIN

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty pleas of Lacombe residents James “Pigeon” Ducre, 52, and Adrian Fleming, 20 in separate cases tried in District Court last week. Both defendants pled guilty after their jury trials had begun. Ducre pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine before 22 nd Judicial District Judge Bill Burris with Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presenting the states case. Fleming pled guilty to two counts of simple burglary, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine, aggravated burglary, and possession of schedule IV, II, and I drugs. 22 nd Judicial District Judge Patricia Hedges accepted Fleming’s guilty plea with Assistant District Attorney Jack Hoffstadt presenting the states case.

Ducre was arrested in May 2006 by St. Tammany Sheriffs Deputies after 20 grams of cocaine and digital scales were found behind his residence, and in his car. The deputies were on patrol when they observed an unusual gathering of people and a known drug addict in front of Ducre’s home. The cocaine and scales were found after Ducre consented to a search of his property. Judge Burris sentenced Ducre to 15 years in prison with the Department of Corrections.

Fleming who had multiple arrests over the past two years, entered his plea to two counts of simple burglary, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine, aggravated burglary, and possession of schedule IV, II, and I drugs and received a 10 year sentence in prison with the Department of Corrections by Judge Hedges.

May 7, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MAN GETS 20 YEARS FOR DWI PLEA AND REVOCATION

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the guilty plea of Clinton Desroche, 37 of Madisonville, to a 2 nd fourth offense DWI. A St. Tammany Parish Jury had been selected when the defendant decided to plead guilty as charged Thursday April 26, 2007. 22 nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea and Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre was in charge of preparing and presenting the State’s case.

Desroche was arrested in February 2006 by the Louisiana State Police after he crashed his car into a ditch on the edge of Lonesome Road near Mandeville. Desroche had slurred speech, droopy eyelids, and was unable to pass the standard field sobriety test. Desroche admitted to taking several prescription drugs and toxicology tests revealed that he had also taken oxycontin.

Judge Garcia sentenced Desroche to 10 years in prison. In addition, Desroche was already on probation for his 1 st fourth offense DWI. Judge William Knight on Monday, April 30 th, 2007, revoked this probation and gave Desroche 10 years more in prison. The two sentences were ordered to be served consecutively for a total of 20 years.

April 26, 2007

NEWS RELEASE

MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO AGGRAVATED BURGLARY

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed announces the guilty plea of Dennis Sawyer, 34 of Slidell, to aggravated burglary, domestic abuse battery, and false imprisonment. Sawyer was originally charged with attempted murder but the charge was amended to aggravated burglary after further review of the evidence and consultation with the victims. 22 nd Judicial District Court Judge Peter Garcia accepted the guilty plea Monday, April 23, 2007. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre was in charge of the states case.

Sawyer was arrested in August 2005 after he broke into his estranged wife’s home and threatened her and another man with a firearm. The other man was able to wrestle the gun away from Sawyer as shots were fired. 911 was called and the gun was dropped outside as the two victims escaped the residence. Sawyer first came after the victims but then fled in his vehicle. St Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Deputies arrested Sawyer shortly after on a nearby roadway.

Judge Garcia will sentence Sawyer on June 28 th, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated burglary shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not less than one year nor more than thirty years. Domestic abuse battery is punishable by a fine of not less than $300 and not more than $1000 and shall be imprisoned for not less than ten days nor more than six months. False imprisonment is punishable by a fine of not more than $200 and imprisoned for not more than six months or both.

April 4, 2007

C0-WORKER PLEADS GUILITY TO ATTEMPTED MURDER

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Shaun Dale Warren, 26 of Bogalusa, pled guilty as charged to attempted 2 nd degree murder and to a felon in possession a gun. The guilty plea was accepted by 22 nd Judicial District William Burris with Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s case.

Warren was arrested by Abita Springs Police in May 2006 while he was running from the attempted murder. Warren and a co-worker had an argument in a business parking lot near Mandeville that ended in Warren shooting the victim in the chest. The victim was able to drive himself to the hospital.

Judge Burris sentenced Warren to 10 years in prison without benefit of probation or parole for each charge. The two sentences were ordered to run simultaneously.

March 21, 2007

BOGALUSA MAN GETS 25 YEARS FOR POSSESSION OF CHILD PORN

Franklinton--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ross Irwin, 60 of Bogalusa, pled guilty Monday, March 19th, 2007, to 200 counts of possession of child pornography. Irwin’s guilty plea was accepted by 22 nd Judicial District Judge William Knight. Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall was in charge of the State’s case.

Irwin was arrested in February 2006 at his home near Bogalusa after a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Deputy was sent there to check the welfare of a juvenile. The Deputy found the defendant alone but observed pornographic pictures in plain view. The Deputy left and reported to the Juvenile Officer who obtained a search warrant and alerted the Louisiana State Attorney Generals Office. Irwin was arrested after illegal pornographic pictures were collected from his walls, refrigerator, and computer. Irwin’s business cards depicting illegal pornography were also discovered during the search. The evidence was taken to the Attorney Generals Office in Baton Rouge for processing.

Judge Knight sentenced Irwin to 10 years in prison each for counts 1 and 2 and 5 years in prison for count 3 to run consecutively resulting in the 25 year sentence. Judge Knight also sentenced Irwin to 10 years in prison on each of the remaining 197 counts to run concurrently with the 25 years.

March 8, 2007
MISSISSIPPI MAN FOUND GUILTY OF AGGRAVATED RAPE

COVINGTON --- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Eric Jett, 38 of Picayune, Mississippi, has been found guilty as charged of aggravated rape. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about 2 1/2 hours Wednesday, March 7, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Leigh Anne Wall and Justin Marquez.

Jett was arrested in July 2004 by Slidell Police after the 75 year old victim identified him as her attacker. The victim was awakened after midnight by noise and turned on her bedroom light to find the defendant holding a pair of scissors. The victim grabbed the telephone but was stopped by the defendant’s death threat. Jett then raped the victim and threatened to kill her again. For about two hours the victim begged the defendant not to harm her. Finally Jett took $20 and left on foot. The victim gave police a description of her attacker that led to Jett’s capture about a half mile away. Police brought Jett back to the victim’s home where she positively identified him. Jett admitted to police that he had attacked the victim and his taped confession was played for the Jury.

A few days earlier the victim had made Jett a sandwich when he requested work for food. The victim said she didn’t have any work or money for the defendant but that she didn’t want him to go away hungry.

Judge Knight sentenced Jett Friday, March 9th, 2007, to life in prison at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MAN FOUND GUILTY OF 3 COUNTS OF ATTEMPTED AGGRAVATED KIDNAPPING

FRANKLINTON--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that August Varnado, 59 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of 3 counts of attempted aggravated kidnapping of a child under 12. A twelve member Washington Parish Jury deliberated for about 20 minutes Wednesday, March 8, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Raymond Childress presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner.

Judge Childress will sentence Varnado on June 11, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of attempted aggravated kidnapping shall be imprisoned at hard labor for up to 50 years without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

NEWS RELEASE

March 2, 2007
MISSISSIPPI MAN SENTENCED TO 15 YEARS IN PRISON

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kevin Forbes, 52 of Sandy Hook, Mississippi, was sentenced Thursday March 1, 2007, to 15 years in prison for two counts of vehicular homicide and one count of vehicle negligent injuring. Forbes pled guilty to the charges on February 12, 2007 before 22nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre was in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s case.

Forbes was arrested by State Police in February 2004 after he crossed the yellow line north of Covington on LA 21 and crashed into an oncoming vehicle. The first car coming was able to swerve and miss the defendant but the next vehicle crashed head on resulting in the deaths of the two occupants. Another vehicle was able to avoid crashing into the rear of the victim’s car by swerving into a ditch which caused injuries to the driver. Toxicology reports revealed the presence of cocaine, morphine, and marijuana in the defendant at the time of the crash.

February 27, 2007

FORMER PROBATION OFFICER GETS JAIL TIME

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that a former State Probation Officer received a five (5) year probated sentence and two (2) years in jail for offenses occurring while he was supervising a female probationer. Edward Scott Weiler, 44 of Slidell, pled guilty as charged to malfeasance in office and obstruction of justice Monday February 26, 2007. The guilty plea was accepted by 22nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green with Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s cases.

Weiler was arrested after a complaint was filed by an attorney on behalf of a probationer he supervised. The original complaint was reported to the District Attorney’s office who then notified officials with Probation and Parole of the State Department of Corrections and local law enforcement. A Grand Jury reviewed the case and charged Weiler with the offenses. Weiler found drugs in the probationer’s possession through a routine search but did not report it which resulted in the obstruction of justice charge. Weiler also substituted his urine for the probationer’s urine for a drug test resulting in the malfeasance in office charge. Weiler also gave her jewelry and money and engaged in sexual telephone conversations which were recorded.

Judge Green sentenced Weiler to 5 years in prison and suspended 3 years resulting in prison for two years. He will serve 5 years probation upon his release from prison. The two sentences were ordered to run simultaneously.

February 9, 2007

MANDEVILLE MAN FOUND GUILTY OF GIRLFRIEND’S MURDER

COVINGTON --- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that William Wayne Lee, 34 of Mandeville, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about 3 hours Friday, February 9, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Joseph Oubre.

Lee was arrested September 16, 2003 for the September 12, 2003, murder of his girlfriend, Audra Bland, 38 of Hammond. Lee and Bland were at a casino on the Mississippi gulf coast when they had a disagreement over Bland’s behavior. The two came to Lee’s parent’s residence in Mandeville around sunrise. Lee admitted putting an unconscious Bland to bed at 6 AM but was unsure what had happened to her. Lee later admitted to police that Bland had fallen and he could not revive her. Lee had guests over all day but didn’t mention anything about Bland. Bland remained in bed all day until 911 was called at 9 PM. The autopsy revealed that Bland died from a blow to the back of the head.

Judge Garcia will sentence Lee on April 2nd, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

February 5, 2007

SECOND MAN FOUND GULITY IN BACK TO BACK TRIALS

Covington--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Walter Copeland, 20 of Slidell, has been found guilty of manslaughter. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about 6 hours Saturday, February 3, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green presided over the 6 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Gerry Alonzo.

Copeland was arrested March 13, 2005, for the March 11, 2005, murder of a Slidell man. Copeland and Michael Wayne Richardson, 23 of Bogalusa, were charged with murder after the victim died of a gunshot wound during a robbery attempt. The two gunmen entered the home by firing through a glass patio door, shot the victim, and stole $700 from the victim’s girlfriend who was unhurt. Richardson was found guilty as charged of 2nd degree murder on Friday, January 26, 2007, after a 5 day trial. Richardson will be sentenced to life in prison February 21, 2007.

Judge Green will sentence Copeland March 19, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of manslaughter shall be imprisonment at hard labor for not more than 40 years

January 31, 2007

LACOMBE MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SECOND DEGREE MURDER

Covington--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Robert Marshall, 23 of Lacombe, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about an hour Wednesday, January 31, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the 3 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Leigh Anne Wall.

Marshall was arrested in May 2004 for the murder of a Lacombe man. Marshall was at the victim’s residence in Lacombe and shot him while on the front porch. The victim was airlifted to a Slidell hospital and was able to name the defendant as the one who shot him before he passed away. The victim’s girlfriend was an eyewitness to the shooting incident.

Judge Knight will sentence Marshall Friday, February 2, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

January 30, 2007

District Attorney Walter Reed announces that a decision was rendered by the Louisiana Supreme Court in a St. Tammany Parish distribution of heroin case prosecuted in 1999. This decision supports the State’s position that the life imprisonment at hard labor sentence without benefit of probation or suspension of the sentence imposed in the Wesley Dick case was correct after his conviction for distribution of heroin.

BY KNOLL, J.:

2006-KP-2223 STATE OF LOUISIANA v. WESLEY DICK (Parish of St. Tammany)
(Distribution of Heroin)
C/W 2006-KP-2226 STATE OF LOUISIANA v. MELVIN SMITH (Parish of Orleans)
(Possession With Intent to Distribute Heroin)
Accordingly, the judgment of the First Circuit Court of Appeal is affirmed. The State v. Dick matter is remanded to the district court for execution of the original sentence, in accordance with the court of appeal's ruling. The appellate court decision in State v. Smith is reversed; defendant's original sentence of life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of probation or suspension of sentence is reinstated and the case is remanded to the district court for execution
of sentence.

06-KP-2223 AFFIRMED.

06-KK-2226 REVERSED AND REMANDED.

CALOGERO, C.J., concurs in the result and assigns reasons.
JOHNSON, J., dissents and assigns reasons.
TRAYLOR, J., concurs in the result and assigns reasons.

NEWS RELEASE

BOGALUSA MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SECOND DEGREE MURDER

Covington--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Michael Wayne Richardson, 23 of Bogalusa, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated for about an hour Friday, January 26, 2007, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Larry Green presided over the 5 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Gerry Alonzo.

Richardson was arrested March 13, 2005, for the March 11, 2005, murder of a Slidell man. Richardson and Walter Copeland, 20 of Slidell, were charged with murder after shooting the victim during a robbery attempt. The two gunmen entered the home by firing through a glass patio door, shot the victim, and stole $700 from the victim’s girlfriend who was unhurt. Copeland’s trial began Monday, January 29,2007.

Judge Green will sentence Richardson February 21, 2007. Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

January 29, 2007

Franklinton--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ethon Henry, 40 of Bogalusa, pled guilty as charged Wednesday, January 17, 2007, to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Henry’s guilty plea was accepted by 22nd Judicial Judge Peter Garcia after the jury had been selected. Assistant District Attorney Shea Penton was in charge of the State’s case.

Henry was arrested in February 2006 after a home check by State Probation and Parole Agents. During the random residence visit the agents caught Henry trying to flush cocaine down a toilet.

Judge Garcia sentenced Henry to 7 years in prison with 5 of those years suspended. After serving the remaining 2 years in prison, Henry will be placed on 5 years supervised probation. Official sentencing will take place on February 13, 2007.

BOGALUSA MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO A DRUG CHARGE

Franklinton--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that David Lynn Jones, 44 of Bogalusa, pled guilty as charged Monday, January 22, 2007, to possession of alprazolam (xanax). Jone’s guilty plea was accepted by 22nd Judicial Judge William Burris after the jury had been selected. Assistant District Attorney Shea Penton was in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s case.

Jones was arrested by Bogalusa Police in February 2006 after he was found in possession of the Schedule IV drugs. Jones was found asleep in his car in a Bogalusa cemetery and had the illegal drugs in his lap. Jones was ordered by Judge Burris to surrender his driver’s license until sentencing.

Judge Burris will sentence Jones on April 4th, 2007. Any person convicted of possession of alprazolam shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not more than five years and may be required to pay a fine of not more than five thousand dollars.

BOGALUSA WOMAN FOUND GUILTY OF 4TH OFFENSE DWI

Franklinton--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Venessa Fedele, 36 of Bogalusa, was found guilty as charged Monday, January 24, 2007, of 4th offense DWI. 22nd Judicial Judge William Burris presided over the two day trial with Assistant District Attorney Shea Penton presenting the State’s case. The six member jury deliberated about 1 hour before returning the guilty as charged verdict.

Fedele was arrested by a Washington Parish Sheriff’s Deputy in October 2004 after a one car crash. Fedele ran through a stop sign and entered a field striking a tree. The Deputy arrived at the crash scene and found that Fedele had already been transported to the hospital. At the hospital the Deputy noticed Fedele’s slurred speech and initiated a standard field sobriety test.

Judge Burris ordered Fedele remanded to jail until her sentencing, March 20, 2007. Whoever is convicted of a 4th offense DWI shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than ten years nor more than thirty years and shall be fined five thousand dollars. Sixty days of the sentence of imprisonment shall be imposed without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence.

January 26, 2007

PEARL RIVER MAN PLEADS GUILTY AS CHARGED TO ARMED ROBBERY AND POSSESSION OF COCAINE

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Raymond Scott Nealy, 27 of Pearl River, pled guilty as charged to armed robbery and possession of cocaine Monday, January 22, 2007. The guilty pleas were accepted by 22nd Judicial District Judge Elaine Dimiceli with Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing in charge of preparation and trial of the State’s cases.

Nealy was arrested by Slidell Police at his FEMA trailer in Pearl River March 21, 2006, after he used a knife to rob a convenience store in Slidell March 8, 2006. Nealy told the clerk he had a drug problem and needed money. The armed robbery was captured by a surveillance camera and the clerk identified Nealy as a former customer that lived just down the road in the FEMA trailer park.

In the other case, Nealy, Daniel Lopez, 21 of Pearl River, and the homeowner, Keith Fulton, 37 of Pearl River, were all charged by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office with possession of cocaine in January 2006. Sheriff’s Deputies knocked on Fulton’s door looking for a female fugitive when they were invited in to search. The deputies immediately arrested Lopez on an outstanding warrant and found crack cocaine, a crack pipe, and drug paraphernalia in the kitchen. All three were charged with possession of cocaine. Lopez and Fulton are awaiting trial scheduled for March 12, 2007.

Judge Dimiceli sentenced Nealy to 11 years in prison without benefit of parole for armed robbery and 3 years in prison for possession of cocaine. The two sentences were ordered to run simultaneously.

November 20, 2006

SHOOTER FOUND GUILTY OF MANSLAUGHTER

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed reports the conviction of Brent Lewis, 22 of Covington, for manslaughter. 22nd Judicial District Judge Reginald Badeaux found Lewis guilty Friday night, November 17, 2006, 30 minutes after the conclusion of the 2 day judge trial. Assistant District Attorneys Julie Knight and Bruce Dearing presented the State’s case.

Lewis was arrested in June 2005 and charged with 2nd degree murder after a Lacombe shooting incident. The victim fired a gun into the air to get people’s attention to move the cars that were blocking him from leaving. The gun was retrieved by a female witness as the victim attempted to back out of the driveway. Lewis and another man were in a vehicle that was bumped by the victim’s. The victim tried to back out again and bumped Lewis’ vehicle a second time. Lewis took the gun from the female witness and fired a shot into the windshield of the victim’s truck and then fired a shot into the driver’s door that struck the victim who died a short time later at a Slidell Hospital.

Judge Badeaux will sentence Lewis on January 4, 2007. The law provides that whoever commits manslaughter shall be imprisoned at hard labor for not more that forty years.

October 27, 2006

DRUG DEALER FACES POSSIBLE LIFE SENTENCE AS CAREER CRIMINAL

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Milton Wilson, 48 of Slidell, was found guilty as charged Tuesday, October 24, 2006, of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. A St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty as charged verdict to 22nd Judicial District Judge Elaine Dimiceli. Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the State’s case.

Wilson was arrested in April 2006 after a traffic stop for speeding by Sheriff’s deputies. Deputies learned that there was a warrant for Wilson’s arrest for failure to appear in court and ordered him to exit the vehicle. Wilson hesitated and was observed trying to hide a cup by his feet as the deputy opened the car door. The deputy saw several pieces of crack cocaine in plain view on the vehicle floorboard. Two baggies each containing several pieces of crack cocaine were found in the cup. A search of the defendant produced $3250 in cash.

Wilson will be sentenced by Judge Dimiceli on December 21, 2006. If found to be a habitual offender Wilson faces the possibility of life in prison Wilson has prior convictions for contraband in a penal institution, 2 counts of distribution of cocaine, possession of stolen property twice, possession of cocaine twice, attempted possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and attempted distribution of cocaine

September 26, 2006

MAN FOUND GUILTY OF SECOND DEGREE MURDER

Covington--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Ronald Ulfers, 53 of Covington, has been found guilty as charged of second degree murder. A twelve member St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated less than two hours Sunday, September 24, 2006, before returning the guilty verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Peter Garcia presided over the 7 day trial with the State’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Joseph Oubre.

Ulfers was arrested in September 2002 for a September 1996 murder of his wife, Debbie Ulfers. The victim’s death was initially ruled as unclassified but was reclassified as a homicide after a review by another forensic pathologist. The presence of Ulfers’s DNA under the victim’s fingernail played a significant role in proving the defendant’s guilt.

Judge Garcia will sentence Ulfers October 11, 2006. Whoever commits the crime of second degree murder shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

September 25, 2006

FLORIDA MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CAREER CRIMINAL—GETS 38 YEARS

Covington--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Thadeus Williamson, 41 of Pensacola, Florida, has been found guilty of possession of cocaine. The defendant requested a Judge Trial and 22nd Judicial District Judge William Burris found Williamson guilty July 7, 2006. The State’s case was presented by Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing.

Williamson was arrested in August 2005 after he was observed throwing a baggie of cocaine under a house. The residence had been under police surveillance and 4 controlled buys of cocaine had been made by confidential informants. Police arrived at the residence to execute a search warrant and saw the defendant discard the illegal drugs.

Judge Burris found Williamson to be a Habitual Offender and sentence him Thursday, September 21, 2006, to 38 years in prison. Williamson’s prior convictions include armed robbery, second degree kidnapping, distribution of cocaine, and possession of cocaine.

September 5, 2006

MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED OF RAPE

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed announces the conviction of Donald Thompson, 46 of Slidell, on 2 counts of aggravated rape. A St. Tammany Parish Jury deliberated Friday evening, September 2, 2006, for about 2 ½ hours before returning the guilty as charged verdict. 22nd Judicial District Judge Elaine DiMiceli presided over the trial with the state’s case being presented by Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing.

Thompson was arrested April 28, 2005, after one of the two victims disclosed the sexual abuse to a school counselor. Both victims eventually made disclosures of sexual abuse that occurred over a long period of time.

Judge DiMiceli will sentence Thompson September 11, 2006. Whoever commits the crime of aggravated rape shall be punished by life imprisonment at hard labor without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

August 30, 2006

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY----GETS LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed announces the guilty plea of Ronald McNeil, 46, of Slidell. McNeil pled guilty Thursday, August 24, 2006, to aggravated rape. Assistant District Attorney Gerry Alonzo represented the state before 22nd Judicial District Court Judge Donald Fendlason.

McNeil was arrested in July 2004 after the victim told police about the sexual abuse. McNeil confessed to police and has been in jail ever since. McNeil pled guilty just prior to the beginning of the trial.

“It is unusual that a defendant pleads guilty to a life sentence in these cases, commented
District Attorney Reed. However, the weight of the evidence was significant and he was questioned very carefully by the Judge about the consequences of his plea. The State is pleased with this result, but very sad a victim had to suffer so much.” Reed concluded.

Judge Fendlason sentenced McNeil to life in prison without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

August 29, 2006

3 MEN GUILTY AS CHARGED FOR ILLEGAL DRUGS – REPEAT OFFENDERS RECEIVE LONG PRISON TERMS

Covington--- District Attorney Walter Reed reports that David Jarrell, 47 of Slidell, and David Sosa, 34 of Houston, were found guilty as charged by St. Tammany Parish Juries and Hardin Palmer, 55 of Lacombe, pled guilty as charged after the jury had been selected in recent 22nd Judicial District Court proceedings. 22nd Judicial District Judge William Knight presided over the Palmer and Jarrell cases and 22nd Judicial District Judge Martin Coady presided over the Sosa case. Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the three unrelated drug cases.

Jarrell was convicted of possession of oxycodone and 2nd offense possession of marijuana on August 15, 2006. Police officers arrested Jarrell in May of 2002 after conducting a “knock and talk” based on a Task Force Hotline tip. A search of the house trailer revealed marijuana and oxycodone. Jarrell faces ten years without parole as an habitual offender. Judge Knight will sentence Jarrell October 31, 2006.

Sosa was convicted of possession of 28 to 200 grams of cocaine on August 24, 2006. Sosa was pulled over in January 2005 for following a tanker truck too close and officers noticed several irregularities with his story. A search of his rental car revealed a well-concealed packet of over 125 grams of pure cocaine destined for resale. Sosa now faces life in prison without benefit of parole as an habitual offender. Judge Coady will sentence Sosa October 26, 2006.

Defendant Palmer pled guilty as charged on August 18, 2006, after the jury was selected for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of hydrocodone. Palmer was arrested in November 2005 after a confidential informant made controlled buys of cocaine from the defendant. A quarter ounce of crack cocaine, hydrocodone, and about $3000 was seized after a search of the defendant’s business in Lacombe. Palmer confessed to a Probation Officer while in jail following his arrest. Palmer was sentenced to 15 years in prison on an habitual offender by Judge Knight.

METH MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON

COVINGTON-----District Attorney Walter Reed reports that John Stafford Lindsey, 39 of Bogalusa, was sentenced to life in prison Monday, April 10, 2006. 22nd Judicial District Judge Elaine DiMiceli sentenced the defendant under the habitual offender law. Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the State's case for the life sentence.

Lindsey was arrested in April 2004 after an anonymous source gave St. Tammany Sheriff's Deputies a tip as to his location in a local hotel room. Patrol deputies established surveillance and Lindsey's girlfriend provided a fake ID. Police found that a warrant existed for the person whose ID was provided. The hotel room was entered and the defendant was arrested without incident. The defendant's room and truck were both searched yielding methamphetamine residue, pseudo ephedrine, clandestine drug lab trappings, assault rifles, cash, and counter surveillance. State Probation and Parole Officers helped in outlining the long criminal history of the "METH MAN". The previous convictions that qualified the defendant as an habitual offender include conviction on 5 counts of burglary in 1985, possession of codeine and dihydrocodeine in 1989, attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in 1996, possession of methamphetamine in 2002, and attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in 2002.

District Attorney Reed commented that "Lindsey was one of the biggest Methamphetamine cooks in the region." "It's great to get this drug king off the streets for good and away from our children," Reed concluded.

Lindsey's most recent conviction was December 12, 2005, when he was found guilty of attempting to operate a clandestine drug lab, possession of ephedrine, attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and conspiracy to produce and manufacture methamphetamine.

MONTANA GETS LIFE IN PRISON

Covington---District Attorney Walter Reed reports the sentencing of Leprease Montana, 31, of Covington to life in prison without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence. Judge Elaine DiMiceli sentenced Montana yesterday for the 1998 second degree murder of Roger Nave. Assistant District Attorney Bruce Dearing presented the state's case at trial when Montana was found guilty as charged May 11, 2006. Nave's family was in the court room to hear the sentencing.

Nave had parked his van on a Covington street in November 1998 and began talking to man who had walked up. Montana came toward the van armed with a pistol and wearing a ski mask. Montana stuck the pistol in Nave's face and demanded money. Montana then shot 4 times killing Nave. The man who had walked up to talk to Nave identified Montana by his voice and clothing.

"Keeping this case going all these years took a lot of hard work" D.A. Reed commented. "The victim's family has had a long, tough road and showed great patience" Reed added.

Montana has been in prison on other charges while this case was developed for trial.

SLIDELL MAN PLEADS GUILTY TO ARMED ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTED MURDER OF A POLICEMAN

COVINGTON----District Attorney Walter Reed announces the guilty plea of Cecil Delaughter, 25 of Slidell. Delaughter pled guilty as charged Tuesday, June 13, 2006, to armed robbery and attempted second degree murder after a 12 person jury was selected. Assistant District Attorney Gerry Alonzo represented the state before 22' Judicial District Court Judge Donald Fendlason.

Delaughter and an accomplice robbed a man at gun point in September 2004. The robbery victim was told to run off and a shot was fired over his head. Slidell Police were nearby on another matter and heard the shot. The defendant and accomplice saw the Police and ran off but were knocked down by a clothes line. Delaughter jumped to his feet and fired shots at a Slidell Police Officer. The Police returned fire as Delaughter ran away. Delaughter was arrested the next morning.

Brandon Edwards, 19, of Slidell has been charged as Delaughter's accomplice in the armed robbery and is awaiting trial.
"This type of brazen disregard for law and order concerns us all" D. A. Reed commented. "It's a real victory for all law abiding citizens when a criminal of this caliber is taken off the streets and sent to prison" Reed concluded.

Judge Fendlason sentenced Delaughter to 20 years in prison for attempted murder and 10 years in prison for armed robbery to be served simultaneously without benefit of parole, probation, or suspension of sentence.

MANDEVILLE MAN FOUND GUILTY AS CHARGED--DISCHARGES A WEAPON IN FRONT OF TROOP L

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Joseph Brister, 35, of Mandeville was found guilty as charged of a convicted felon carrying a firearm. A St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty verdict Tuesday, June 13, 2006, after a two day trial. Career Criminal Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the State's case before 22" Judicial District Judge William Burris.

Two State Policemen were booking an unrelated prisoner in front of Louisiana State Police Troop L in Mandeville in March 2005 when they both heard two gun shots. One of the troopers moved toward the shots and saw a third muzzle blast from a car on Hwy 190 just across the service road directly in front of Troop L. The troopers were able to chase down Brister and arrest him without incident.

Judge Burris will sentence Brister August 14, 2006. A multiple offender bill of information has been filed under the Habitual Offender Law. Brister faces 20 years to life in prison if found to be an Habitual Offender. Brister has prior convictions of burglary of an inhabited dwelling, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, and access device fraud.

FLORIDA MAN SENTENCED FOR CARNAL KNOWLEDGE

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Joe Mitchell, 39 of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced today to years in prison. A St. Tammany Parish Jury found Mitchell guilty as charged of carnal knowledge April 25, 2005. 22ºa Judicial District Judge Martin Coady sentenced Mitchell under the Habitual Offender Law that was filed by Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre who presented the State's case.

The defendant was in the Slidell area staying with family when the sexual abuse occurred in July 2002. Mitchell coerced and intimidated the victim into consenting to the sexual abuse. A few months after the incident the victim confided in her mother and the police were notified. Mitchell. was transported from a Florida prison in June 2005 to stand trial for this charge.

Mitchell was found to be an habitual offender today by Judge Coady. Assistant DA Oubre had filed a multiple offender bill of information under the Habitual Offender Law. Mitchell faced 20 years to life in prison if found to be an Habitual Offender. Between 1982 and the present, the defendant has 10 felony theft convictions , 5 felony burglary convictions, an armed robbery conviction, an aggravated assault conviction, a forgery conviction, and a DWI conviction, all in Florida.

COVINGTON MAN FACES UP TO 60 YEARS IN PRISON

COVINGTON--District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Kim Hogan, 41 of Covington was found guilty as charged Thursday, June 22, 2006, of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Assistant District Attorney Scott Gardner presented the state's case before 22nd Judicial District Judge Elaine DiMiceli.

Hogan was arrested in July 2004 after an undercover drug task force investigation by the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office and the Slidell Police Department. Video surveillance of illegal drug purchases resulted in a state search warrant for the defendant's trailer just outside Abita Springs. Seven thousand dollars of drug money was seized along with crack cocaine, digital scales, and drug residue on plenty of drug paraphernalia.
"The Habitual Offender Law has given us the ability to keep career criminals off the streets and in prison", D.A. Reed commented. "It's good to see these drug pushers sent away for a long time", Reed added.

Judge DiMiceli will sentence Hogan September 30, 2006. Hogan was arrested by the DEA and convicted of violating federal drug laws in 1992 and served over ten years in federal prison. Due to this prior felony conviction Hogan faces 15 to 60 years in prison without benefit of probation, parole, or suspension of sentence. A first offense conviction for possession with intent to distribute cocaine is 5 to 30 years in prison.

NOVOA SENTENCED TO LIFE PLUS 26 YEARS IN PRISON

COVINGTON—District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Juan Novoa 40, of Covington was sentenced Monday June 26, 2006, to life in prison plus 26 years. Novoa, was found guilty as charged in two separate trials in May of this year. In the first trial a six member jury found Novoa guilty of failure to register as a sex offender. In the second trial a twelve member jury found Novoa guilty of 2"d degree battery, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, and a felon carrying a concealed weapon. Assistant District Attorneys Scott Gardner and Justin Marquez presented the State's case in the 2 trials before 22nd Judicial District Judge William Knight.

Novoa moved here in late 2005 and never registered as a sex offender. A Massachusetts conviction for sex abuse required the registration with local authorities. The second degree battery occurred in November 2005 and happened in Covington. Novoa slammed the victim against a door edge. The victim was able to call the Covington Police after she regained consciousness. The unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling resulted from Novoa running from police and hiding in a vacant adjoining apartment where he was discovered hiding in a closet. The felon carrying a concealed weapon occurred when police found a large knife concealed on the defendant when he was arrested and searched.

District Attorney Walter Reed commented that "career criminals in this district will feel the full force of the state's habitual offender law when their actions show that they refuse to follow the rule of law and harm others. This life sentence plus 26 years is well deserved for this offender."
Judge Knight sentenced Novoa as a career criminal under the state's habitual offender law in both cases. Novoa has prior convictions for robbery in 1992, assault and battery in 1992, indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 in 1993, larceny in 1997, possession of cocaine in 1997, and another conviction for indecent assault and battery on a child under 14 in 1999 all in Massachusetts.

SLIDELL WOMAN FOUND GUILTY OF 6 COUNTS OF DISTRIBUTION OF COCAINE----FACES 20 YEARS TO LIFE IN PRISON AS HABITUAL OFFENDER

COVINGTON---District Attorney Walter Reed reports that Rose Freeman, 49, of Slidell was found guilty as charged Thursday, July 13, 2006, of 6 counts of distribution of cocaine. The 12 member St. Tammany Parish Jury returned the guilty as charged verdict in less than 1 hour. Assistant District Attorney Joseph Oubre presented the state’s case before 22nd District Judge Peter Garcia.

Rose Freeman, her son Kenneth, 32, and Andrew “Boe” Long, Jr., 35, all of Slidell were arrested in October 2004 after an undercover narcotics officer bought crack cocaine and prescription drugs from them. Slidell Police enlisted a St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Narcotics Deputy to buy the illegal drugs in August through October 2004 after getting intelligence that the two Freemans and Long, Jr. were trafficking illegal drugs in the Slidell area. It was determined that Rose Freeman was the head of the operation and upon arrest she admitted to police that she was going to Orleans to buy more crack and “take care of business” but would not reveal her source. Kenneth Freeman pled guilty as charged after the jury was selected to 5 counts of distribution of cocaine in November 2005 and was sentenced to 25 years in prison. Andrew “Boe” Long, Jr. pled guilty to 2 counts of distribution of cocaine in November 2005 and was sentenced to 10 years in prison.

Rose Freeman will be sentenced by Judge Garcia August 7, 2006 7th. If found to be an habitual offender Freeman will face 20 years to life in prison Freeman has prior convictions for distribution of cocaine in 1997 and 1988, a 1986 conviction for possession of cocaine and stolen property, and a 1986 conviction for shoplifting in Florida.

To contact the District Attorney, send email to dareed@22da.com

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Walter P. Reed District Attorney 22nd Judicial District News Releases

Walter P. Reed
District Attorney

22nd Judicial District
News Releases