By Paige Nash
Following the arrest of Homer Police Department (HPD) Chief “Van” McDaniel Monday by Louisiana State Police (LSP) on charges of malfeasance in office and aggravated battery, a second arrest has been made.
HPD Officer Arnold Stephenson was also brought in later yesterday afternoon and is facing charges of possession of Schedule II (ecstasy) with intent to distribute and illegal carrying of a weapon.
Both McDaniel and Stephenson were booked into the Claiborne Parish Detention Center. McDaniel’s bond was set at $200,000 and Stephenson’s at $35,000. Both have bonded out.
The investigation by LSP was brought on following an arrest made by the HPD in December of 2022 following a reported theft in the 1400 block of Arther Street in Homer. Officers assigned to the Patrol Division, including HPD Chief Elvan “Van” McDaniel, encountered and arrested one subject by the name of Gregory Moak. Moak was ultimately booked on numerous charges, including resisting arrest.
A video circulating on Facebook that contained body cam footage from the December arrest, shows Chief McDaniel, tasing Moak multiple times while he was restrained in handcuffs facedown on the ground.
Moak sued McDaniel, Officer Arnold Stephenson, Officer Ted Robinson, an unnamed officer, HPD and the City of Homer in federal court in February, alleging excessive use of force. The latest filing as of April 12 stated that the proceedings are “pending outcome of criminal trial.”
As LSP investigators continue their investigation and gather more information, additional charges and/or arrests are possible. During this time, HPD will be unable to answer calls for service. Therefore, Claiborne Parish Sheriff’s Office (CPSO) will handle all calls for service in the area. Troop G will provide Troopers to assist CPSO.
