By Pat Culverhouse

An early Friday morning search for a Claiborne Parish man wound its way into Webster Parish where Minden narcotics detectives and police officers located the suspect along with illegal narcotics and a large amount of cash.

Chief of Police Jared McIver said MPD narcotics investigators were contacted by Louisiana State Police who were searching for 33-year-old Georgerick Ja’Tedias Coleman of Haynesville, who was named in an LSP warrant on charges of racketeering activities.

A 6 a.m. raid on a Haynesville residence by LSP troopers and Claiborne Sheriff’s deputies had failed to locate Coleman, and MPD assistance was requested to check a local address where the suspect might be found.

Shortly after 6:15 a.m., Minden officers reportedly discovered the suspect’s vehicle at a residence in the 900 block of Madison Ave. and surrounded the location. Coleman reportedly was called out of the house and taken into custody without incident.

Because Coleman’s racketeering warrant indicated potential co-conspirators, Minden officers entered the residence to perform a safety sweep. While in the process of checking inside, an officer noticed several vacuum sealed bags in a basement closet.

After he had been Mirandized, Coleman reportedly told investigators the bags contained narcotics that belonged to him. A search warrant was secured, and inside the residence officers found four large vacuum sealed bags, each containing approximately two pounds of natural marijuana with a street value totaling nearly $13,000.

In addition to the marijuana, police found $3,590 in cash located in a bedroom and a money counting machine.

Coleman was booked on the racketeering activity warrant issued by Louisiana State Police and for possession of CDS Sch. I (marijuana) with intent to distribute.

McIver said Coleman’s arrest is one more example of the effectiveness of cooperation between multiple agencies.

“I can’t emphasize strongly enough how important it is to have this type of agency cooperation,” McIver said. “Our narcotics detectives, Lt. Shane Griffith and Lt. Kenny James, have a great relationship with other agencies and it’s paying off in arrests like this one.”

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Coordinated raids of separate local residences during the early morning hours Thursday netted Minden police a pair of 17-year-old suspects wanted on warrants in connection with a firearm-related assault.

Police identified the pair as Derrian Markray, a resident of the 1000 block of Tillman Dr. and Jaylen Shine, who resides in the 100 block of Millard Fuller Dr.  Armed with search warrants, Minden police officers and members of the department’s Special Response Team struck both residences simultaneously just before 6:30 a.m. Thursday.

Both suspects were taken into custody without incident, Chief of Police Jared McIver said.

Markray is charged with criminal conspiracy to aggravated second degree battery, aggravated second degree battery and aggravated assault with a firearm. He reportedly is being held on a total bond of $110,000.

Shine’s charges include criminal conspiracy to aggravated second degree battery, principal to aggravated second degree battery and principal to aggravated assault with a firearm. His bond has been set at a total of $70,000.

Both were sought for allegedly pistol-whipping a victim earlier this month, then chasing him as he tried to escape a further beating.

Police searched both residences for weapons and reportedly found multiple magazines for different caliber firearms and an upper part for an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle.

McIver said lead investigator on the case Det. Matthew Hicks is still gathering information on activities of the pair.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

In an effort to put Minden on the federal government map, Mayor Nick Cox and councilmen Andy Pendergrass, Michael Roy and Carleton Myles spent several days in Washington DC recently with lobbyist Alex Holland networking with those that can help the city grow with projects funded by grants.

Cox said with Holland’s help, the group made presentations to the U.S. Department of Transportation, Department of Agriculture Rural Development, Department of Housing and Urban Development and Delta Regional Authority.

They also met with representatives for Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, Sen. John Kennedy and Sen. Bill Cassidy.

“Minden’s on the rise,” Cox said. “For the first time … maybe ever … a Speaker of the House knows the Minden Mayor by name. In the scheme of things … in the timeline … this was the time to ask for help with projects.”

And they did.

Minden’s contingency requested aid for several projects that could actually be funded by more than one department in a layering move referred to as “Capital Stacking.”

Some of those include a three-phase water project, a new road connecting Lewisville Road to Methodist Camp Road, sidewalks for Sheppard Street, a lift station to service Robertson Mobile Home Park and industrial businesses on Davenport Drive and a new water plant built through a cooperative agreement with Louisiana Tech and funded totally with a grant.

(Editor’s note: Watch Webster Parish Journal for stories on these projects in the coming days.)

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Dedrick Erving is wanted for one count of Simple Battery and one count of Felony Theft.

The theft charge is a result of Dedrick stealing a very expensive stereo. The Simple Battery charge is a result of Dedrick striking the victim in the face over the power being turned off at a shared residence.

Anyone with knowledge of the whereabouts of Dedrick Erving is urged to contact MPD Det. Sgt. Jason Lee at Office: (318) 371-4226 ext. 482; Cell: (318) 268-7044 or email jlee@mindenusa.com.

All information will be confidential.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Friday

Sunny, with a high near 64. South wind 5 to 15 mph becoming west in the afternoon.

Friday Night

Clear, with a low around 40. West wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 66. Calm wind becoming southeast around 5 mph.

Saturday Night

Clear, with a low around 43.

Sunday

Sunny, with a high near 72.

Sunday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 53.

Monday

Mostly sunny, with a high near 76.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service.

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Howard Pryor McMurrian, 73, of Minden, Louisiana passed away on January 24, 2025 in Shreveport after a brief illness.

Howard was born in Monroe, Louisiana on May 4, 1951 to William Chapman and Ethel Auger McMurrian.  While growing up in Farmerville, Howard was an Eagle Scout and an avid high school basketball player.  He graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Louisiana Tech University and earned his Certified Public Accountant credential soon after.  He moved to Shreveport and was a partner at the firm Cole, Evans & Peterson.  He was very proud to serve his profession as a member of the Auditing Standards Board of the AICPA .

Throughout his life he lived and worked in many places including Fort Worth, Texas,  Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Redmond, Washington and Sibley, Louisiana.  He owned multiple businesses including GEM Shavings and FunRent in Washington and most recently Country Market in Sibley.  He loved getting to know all the folks who ultimately became not just customers, but his dear friends. The staff were not just employees, but family.  Howard was always about helping people to develop to their maximum potential. 

Howard loved his church, St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minden.  He served in many capacities including multiple terms as Sr. Warden. He cherished the friendships he had with many of the members.

Howard is survived by his beloved wife, Nancy Gray McMurrian, stepdaughter, Kirsten Pilgrim (John) of Junction City, Kansas, son, Wesley McMurrian of Monroe, Washington, daughter, Claire Kappa (David) of Cincinnati, Ohio, their stepmother, Sara Schaefer McMurrian and grandchildren, William, Celeste and Camille Kappa and Holland Pilgrim.  He was preceded in death by his parents, his sister, Harriet Cooke and his brother, Robert McMurrian.

Services will be held at 2:00 PM on Tuesday, February 4 at St. John’s Episcopal Church in Minden with a reception to follow in the parish hall. 

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St. John’s Episcopal Church, 1107 Broadway Street, Minden, LA 71055, stjohnsminden.org, the Humane Society of Northwest Louisiana, 2544 Linwood Ave, Shreveport, LA 71103, hsnwla.com, or the charity of your choice.

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By Pat Culverhouse

A Bossier City man allegedly trespassing through a residential area of Sibley has managed to walk his way into the parish prison after law enforcement officers found him in possession of illegal narcotics.

Webster Parish Sheriff’s detectives Lt. Chase Wimberly and Sgt. Josh McCormick arrived just before 8:30 p.m. Wednesday to assist Sibley police officers with a call concerning a male subject allegedly walking through yards along 6th Avenue in Sibley.

Officers identified the man as 53-year-old Christopher E. Richard of Bossier City, and learned from WPSO dispatch that he was the subject of an outstanding warrant in Webster Parish for aggravated flight from an officer.

While he was detained, deputies asked and received consent to search a large travel bag in the suspect’s possession. In the search, the deputies found a plastic bag containing methamphetamine and used syringes.

Richard was booked into Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center on the outstanding warrant and additional charges of possession of CDS Sch. II (methamphetamines) and possession of drug paraphernalia. He reportedly is being held on a $1,000 bond.

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(UPDATE 1/30/2025) – DOTD advises motorists that the below referenced interstate closure has been postponed and will be rescheduled at a later date. An update will be issued when that date has been finalized.

Original notification:

The Louisiana Department of Transportation and Development advises motorists that on the night of Saturday, February 1, 2025, I-20 in both the eastbound and westbound directions at the LA 531 interchange near Minden in Webster Parish will be closed.

This closure is scheduled to take place from 7:00 p.m. on February 1st to 6:00 a.m. on February 2nd, and is necessary to allow the contractor for the ongoing LA 531 overpass replacement project to remove temporary formwork on the newly constructed bridge. This ensures the work can be carried out safely without risk to the traveling public.

Through traffic on I-20 will be diverted to the off-ramps, and back onto the interstate via the on-ramps at the interchange.

The project is currently about 73 percent complete, with work underway on the roundabouts that will help improve traffic flow onto and off the interstate ramps. Much of the major construction work on the new overpass is finished. Once traffic is swapped to the new bridge, the contractor will begin removal of the old structure.

The entire project is anticipated to wrap up in Summer 2025, weather permitting.

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By Pat Culverhouse

An apparent verbal argument became physical early Thursday morning and a 59-year-old Minden man is currently behind bars facing a domestic abuse charge.

Minden Chief of Police Jared McIver said Roy Anthony White, who lists an address in the 500 block of Graveyard St., has been booked for domestic abuse battery with a dangerous weapon as a result of the incident. He reportedly is being held at Bayou Dorcheat Correctional Center. No bond has been set.

Officers reportedly arrived at the Graveyard St. address shortly before 3 a.m. Thursday and found the alleged victim with noticeable injuries on her forehead and arms. During their interview, officers were told the victim and White began arguing and that confrontation became physical.

During the alleged fight, the victim claimed White kicked her with steel-toed boots and tried to choke her. The victim reportedly also claimed the suspect struck her with a hard object, leaving her unconscious.

White reportedly left the residence before officers arrived, but information gained from the victim led police to a residence on Angelee St. There, MPD officers Jessica Thompson, Dedrick Anderson and Sgt. Anthony Miller located the suspect.

During questioning, White reportedly denied the allegations, claiming he had been at the Angelee St. address all night. That claim reportedly was not substantiated during interviews with a resident at the address.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

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Funeral services for Alan Douglas Watkins will be held Sunday, February 2, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. at First Baptist Church Minden with Bro. Leland Crawford and Bro. Steve Gilley officiating. Interment will follow at Gardens of Memory in Minden, Louisiana under the direction of Rose Neath Funeral Home in Minden. The family will receive friends from 5:00 until 7:00 p.m. Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Rose Neath Funeral Home in Minden.

Alan was born September 26, 1952, in Pine Bluff, Arkansas and went to be with the Lord on January 29, 2025, in Minden, Louisiana.

He was preceded in death by his father, Roy Douglas Watkins, mother, Dorothy Wright Watkins, and sister, Gayle Watkins Barnard.

Alan graduated valedictorian from Ferriday High School, attended the US Military Academy at West Point, NY, and earned a degree in Accounting from Louisiana Tech University. He accepted a position as the Controller of the Louisiana Army Ammunition Plant in 1980, and Minden became home for Alan and his loving wife and kids. For 45 years, that community has surrounded his family with love and grace.

Alan was a true family man. He adored his, kids, grandkids, and his dog captain, just the latest in a long line of dogs, horses and cows he loved to care for. One of his fondest memories was riding his grandchildren on his John Deere tractor. He was his kids and grandkids’ biggest fan and spent his days cheering them on at their sporting events, rodeos and recitals. He will be dearly missed.

He is survived by his wife Libbey Watkins of Minden, sons, Case (Kristin) Watkins of Harrisonburg, Virginia, Lou Watkins (Ashleigh), of Lindale, Texas, and Jacob Watkins (Emily) of Benton, daughter, Maggie McMillian (Jonathan) of Lindale, Texas, brother, Mark Watkins (Beverly) of Little Rock, Arkansas, and Jim Watkins of Ruston, brother-in-law, Ben Barnard of Raleigh, North Carolina, and grandchildren, Ellie, Emma, Max, Crew, Hallie, Lucy, Ella, Mae, Sofia, and Emmie.

Pallbearers will be Alex Collins, Steve Cooper, Gary Jackson, Steve Leitch, Wesley Mandino, Billy Moseley, Matthew Moseley, Chris Odom, Stan Strobel, and Ross Thevenot.

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Send non-profit calendar events to wpjnewsla@gmail.com .

February 1

1 p.m. Take Your Child to the Library Day Minden Library Branch. Call Latishia Smith at 318-371-3080 ext. 110 for more details.

February 5

9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Evaluation Day for Upward Soccer at North Acres Baptist Church. K5-5th Boys and Girls. Come and go. Season begins March 10th-May 3rd. Practices will be Tuesday evenings and games Saturday mornings. There will be two Tuesday games towards the end of season. If you have any questions, please email nabcsoccer@gmail.com

February 15

11 a.m. MLK Black History Parade/Youth Rally, Downtown Minden.

5 p.m. Minden Mardi Gras parade rolls. Face painting begins at 3:30 p.m.

February 22

8:30 a.m. Piney Hills Louisiana Master Gardeners, Buds & Blooms registration. Speakers begin at 9. First Methodist Church, 903 Broadway, Minden. Proceeds used for 4-H Youth Gardening and 4-H Scholarships.

March 22

Noon  until 3:30 p.m. MVP Room Minden Rec Center, 1000 Recreation Drive, Minden, Hearts & Halos, a heartfelt and creative event honoring families who have experienced infant or pregnancy loss. This free event is designed to offer healing through creativity, support, and connection. Spaces are limited to 30 attendees (plus 1 optional guest per registrant). RSVP is required to secure your spot. Register here: https://forms.gle/qwm5TLhhbNN5Ujbx9 

For more information: https://www.facebook.com/share/19MTtduPTF/

March 31

DEADLINE FOR THE FOLLOWING:

Meriwether Wealth and Planning is proud to support local students by offering four (4) $1,000 scholarships to eligible graduating high school seniors. They are able to double their scholarship offerings this year thanks to the generosity of their clients.

Applications are available at https://www.meriwether.com/resources and must be received by Monday, March 31, 2025 at 5 p.m.

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Courtesy of Louisiana State Police

Louisiana State Troopers are gearing up for an exciting and highly anticipated Super Bowl week in February 2025. With large crowds expected, safety in and around the French Quarter is paramount. Law enforcement officials are announcing that additional safety guidelines have been implemented for this event.

From February 5, 2025, through February 10, 2025, there will be a French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone (FQESZ) from Canal Street to St. Ann Street between Royal Street and Dauphine Street. (Please view the attached FQESZ map for a visual of the area.) 

The following guidelines are in place for the FQESZ:

Backpack coolers and ice chests are prohibited within the FQESZ.

Anything larger than 4.5” x 6.5” (the size of a clutch handbag) are discouraged and subject to search by law enforcement prior to entering the FQESZ.

Vehicles will be prohibited from entering the FQESZ except for emergency purposes.  Beginning February 5, 2025, any vehicles parked in the FQESZ will be towed.

Visitors staying at hotels on Bourbon Street should access their hotel using the Royal Street or Dauphine Street entrances.  Visitors will be allowed access with luggage at the nearest barrier/cross street if the hotel does not have access to those streets.  Those visitors must provide proof of hotel reservation and identification.

Anyone refusing a search will be denied entry to the FQESZ.

Beginning February 5, 2025, only those vehicles dropping off visitors to hotels, residents of the area, and emergency vehicles will be allowed into the area from Canal Street to St. Ann Street between Decatur Street and North Rampart Street. Residents and hotel visitors must provide proof of hotel reservation/residency prior to entry.

Residents and visitors should be aware of these key reminders:

The Caesars Superdome is a “No Drone Zone” for the Super Bowl.

Concealed weapons are prohibited in bars, casinos, government buildings and venues such as the Superdome.

If carrying a concealed handgun, you must not be under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and you should never handle the firearm in a way that could cause harm to others.

When interacting with law enforcement officers, it is your responsibility to notify them if you are armed.

Troopers will be assigned to the French Quarter, Central Business District, and key roadways and event locations, including the Caesars Superdome, providing high-visibility vehicle and foot patrols throughout the week.

Please remember to utilize the “See Something, Send Something” app to report real-time activity to the appropriate investigators. The app is found listed as See Send by My Mobile Witness, Inc. and is a nationwide suspicious activity reporting tool for citizens. Both text and/or pictures may be submitted directly to public safety personnel.

“Super Bowl LIX is the perfect opportunity to showcase New Orleans as the world class city it is. In order to do this, we must prioritize the safety of every single visitor and resident in the city. Today’s action demonstrates the commitment of federal, state, and local officials to make sure the Super Bowl flows seamlessly and safely. These security measures were put in place to balance the security of everyone with the freedoms we all enjoy in this country,” said Governor Jeff Landry.

Residents and visitors can also follow Louisiana State Police on our social media pages.

Louisiana State Police wants everyone to remain safe, make good decisions, and have a fun and exciting Super Bowl week! To report possibly impaired and/or aggressive drivers, please dial *LSP (*577) from your cell phone.

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The following persons are scheduled to appear in 26th Judicial District Court on Monday, February 3:

BAGGETT, MARCUS LAMON

98860-CT.1 Vehicular Homicide

98860-CT.2 First Degree Vehicular Negligent Injuring

BAILEY, ROBBY

96621A Resisting An Officer

BANKS, ASHLEY FERRELL

99264 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

BATTON, JAWORSKI R.

98614-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

98614-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

BAUGH, JERESTIN L

99339 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

99339A Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

OC 12/9 Trial 3/24

BLACK, TORRANCE ARDELL

98636 Forgery

98636A Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

BROWN, KATHLEEN NICOLE

99133 Simple Battery

BROWN, KATHLEEN NICOLE

T019824 Speeding 11-15 MPH

T019824A Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

BURNS, AZENDE JEREZZ

99435 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

BUSSEY, BENJAMIN

99429 Unauthorized Entry Of An Inhabited Dwelling

BUTLER, ARNO ADAM

99004 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

CANTRELL, KRISTIAN KOREY

INCOMING Misd Illegal Possession Stolen Things

Co-def: M. Cantrell

CASEY, DONTAY DEWAYNE

98547 Illegal Possession Of Stolen Firearms

CASTILLO, ERNESTO

99121 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

CAULEY, JAMI LYNN

99004A Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

CIBLEY, JARED MAURICE

89722-CT.2 Attempted Sexual Battery

89722-CT.1 Indecent Behavior With A Juvenile

COLLINS, WILLIAM DWAYNE

99342 Felony Illegal Possession of Stolen Things ($1,000 – $5,000)

COOPER, BOBBY

98410-CT.1 Possession of a CDS I Marijuana (Fourteen Grams or Less)

COOPER, BOBBY

99006A-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

99006A-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

99006A-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

COOPER, BOBBY

99006A-CT.1 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

99006A-CT.2 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

99006A-CT.3 Distribution of a Schedule II CDS

Codef: A. Morales

COX, LAPATRICK

99459 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

CROW, VALARIE

99206 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

DAVIS, ASEAN LAWENDELL

99455 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

DAVIS, SHEENA

99008 Exploitation of the Infirmed

DILDY, WILLIAM B.

98390 Aggravated Assault

DUNN, RONNY PAUL

98684 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

EVANS, DAVENGELO LAJUAN

97438-CT.1 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Valued At $1,000 Or More But Under $50,000

97438-CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property

Valued At $1,000.00 Or More But Under $50,000

Restitution owed to the victims- $7,554.23, plus $1,133.13 fee= $8,687.36 Balance as of 1/29/25 is $5,528.36

FARRELL, CRYSTAL

99451 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

Codef: L. Magee

FLINT, JAMES WILLIAM

97873 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

FLOURNOY, COURTNEY RAY

99431 Possession of Drug Paraphernalia – First Offense

FRAZIER, YASMIES

INCOMING Aggravated Battery

GAGE, TAMEIKA

99391 Resisting An Officer

GARCIE, TRICIA MICHELLE

96240 Theft Under $1,000

Restitution owed to Sams Eatery $729, plus $109.35 fee = $838.35 total

GARCIE, TRICIA MICHELLE

97650- Ct. 1 Theft Under $1,000

97650 CT.2 Simple Criminal Damage To Property Under $1,000

Restitution owed to Cypress Water System- $648.08, plus $97.21 fee = $745.29 total

GARCIE, TRICIA MICHELLE

T004224 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

T004224A Operating A Vehicle with an Expired License Plate

GARMANY, CHANEY MARTIN

99250 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

GARMANY, CHANEY MARTIN

99250 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

GARMANY, CHANEY MARTIN

99250 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

GRIGSBY, MIKIERRA

99377 Simple Escape

GRIM, TIMOTHY MIGUEL

97668-CT.1 False Imprisonment

97668-CT.2 Aggravated Assault

GRIM, TIMOTHY MIGUEL

97353 Disturbing The Peace

GRIM, TIMOTHY MIGUEL

99437 Aggravated Assault Upon a Peace Officer

HALL, CANDACE M.

99449 Simple Burglary

HARRIS, SABRINA RAVEN

98089 Ct. 1 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

98089 Ct. 2 Improper Supervision of a Minor by Parent or Legal Custodian

HAWK, ANTARIO D

98981 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

HAWKINS, LATANYA DIXON

99422 Aggravated Assault

HEWITT, LAVENTE STEPHON

99355 CT. 1 Theft of a Motor Vehicle Amounting to a Sum of Less than $1,000

99355 CT. 2 Theft Under $1,000

HOLIDAY, ANTONIO

99452-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

99452-CT.2 Obstruction of Justice by Tampering with Evidence

HUNTER, CHARLES E.

99439 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Co-Def C. Wiggins

JACKSON, CARLTONIOVONTAE RAVION

99285 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS (Twenty-Eight Grams Or More)

JACKSON, KEITH DEWAYNE

99357 Illegal Discharge Of A Firearm – Crime Of Violence / Uniform Cds Law

JACKSON, RODNEY KARL

99346-CT.1 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

99346-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

JONES, JACOB D

99406 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

JONES, LAGREETA LEE

98397 CT. 1 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98397 CT. 2 Resisting An Officer

98397 CT. 3 Possession Of Alcoholic Beverages In Motor Vehicles

98397 CT. 4 Improper Driving On A One-Way Roadway

98397 CT. 5 Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT

97270 Illegal Discharge And/Or Disposal Of Non-Hazardous Substance

JONES, SR., TERRY WYATT

99179-CT.1 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Two Grams or More But Less Than Twenty-Eight Grams)

99179-CT.2 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

JONES, TORRENCE DONNELL

98773 Unauthorized use of a Movable less than $1,000

LEE, JAQUAN LEKEL

99093-CT.1 Illegal Use/Possession/Control of Weapons – Crime of Violence or CDS

99093-CT.2 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

LI, MIN

99361 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

LIBERTO, JOAN WEBB

99456 Theft Under $1,000

LOTT, VINCENT C.

99389 Theft Under $1,000

Restitution owed to the victim per the report $4,000, plus $600.00 fee = $4,600 total

MAGEE, LORI C

99451 Theft of $1,000 or More but Less than $5000

MARTIN, CARLTON LEE

99060 Simple Battery

Codef: M. Martin

MARTIN, MICHAEL SHANE

99060A Simple Battery

Codef: C. Martin

MARTIN, SHUNTERRA THOMAS

INCOMING Obstructing Highways of Commerce

INCOMING Resisting An Officer

INCOMING Flight From An Officer

INCOMING General Speed Law

INCOMING Operating a Vehicle While License Suspended/Revoked/Cancelled

INCOMING Operating a Vehicle with an Expired Motor Vehicle Inspection

OC 12/30 Please give OC notice for ARR 3/31

MIXON, CAITLIN B.

99316 A Simple Battery

MOORE, DARIEN DANTRELL

98255A Accessory After The Fact

MOYA, SAMUEL PAUL

99409 Aggravated Criminal Damage To Property

PACHUCA, ANDRES

98918 Operating A Vehicle While Intoxicated – First Offense

98918 Careless Operation of a Motor Vehicle

PALMER, CHRISTOPHER ADAM

99449 Simple Burglary

PARKER, JUSTIN MACKENZIE

98578 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

PERRYMAN, JUSTIN W.

98315 Hit & Run Driving Resulting In Death Or Serious Bodily Injury

PINK, ELLIS ALVIN

INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule II CDS

INCOMING Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS

PREUETT, BARRY

99458 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

PRICE, DONAVON COLLIN

99421 Aggravated Assault

REEDER, RALTERRIAN

99103-CT.1 Simple Burglary of a Vehicle

99103-CT.2 Theft Of A Firearm – 1st Offense

99103-CT.3 Simple Burglary of a Vehicle

RHODES, BENNIE

99302 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

RUGLEY, JR., CARL

98984-CT.1 Aggravated Flight From An Officer Where Human Life Is Endangered

98984-CT.2 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

98984-CT.3 Possession Of Firearm Or Carrying Concealed Weapon By Convicted Felon

SHEPPARD, KOBE

99239 Misdemeanor Access Device Fraud

Restitution owed to the victim per the report- $771.23, plus $115.68 fee = $886.91 total

SMITH, RUSSELL GARETH

99428 Simple Burglary

SMITH, TADARION

99098 Ct. 1 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

99098 Ct. 2 Theft Under $1,000

TARAVELLA, HANSON MCHALE

98684 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Codef: R. Dunn

TARAVELLA, HANSON MCHALE

99003 Simple Battery

WEST, DANA MARIE

99337 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

WHEELER, STEFAN ANDRE

99457 Domestic Abuse Battery – 1st Offense

WIGGINS, CYNTHIA GAIL

99438 Possession of a Schedule II CDS (Less than Two Grams)

Co-Def C. Hunter

WILLIS, TROY LAWRENCE

99450 Resisting An Officer With Force Or Violence

WU, QIMING

99361 Possession With Intent to Distribute a Schedule I CDS (Two and One Half Pounds or More)

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The following civil suits were filed with the Webster Parish Clerk of Court the week of January 24 through January 30. Civil suits are public record.

January 24

James Brewer vs. Aimee Brewer, petition.

Fred H. Berry, succession over $125K.

Richard Byron Spencer vs. Recia Fern Spencer, petition.

Weststar Mortgage Corporation vs. Robert Wollschläeger, petition.

January 27

John Dawson Carlisle, succession under $125K.

Emily Dominie Archer vs. Michael Allen Archer, petition.

Dennis Keith Cox, Barbara Cox vs. Patrice Jackson individually and as Natural Tutrix of her minor child, Alicia Patterson, Progressive Security Insurance Co., damages.

January 28

Leslie Ann Meeks vs. Randy Allen Pool, divorce.

Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. Kirk’s Topnotch Automotive LLC, Kirk Toms, petition.

Webster Parish Sales and Use Tax Commission vs. Seth’s Smoke Shack LLC, Fred Poole, petition.

Discover Bank vs. Christopher B. Auster, monies due.

January 29

State of Louisiana vs. Kendrick Loud, forfeiture.

State of Louisiana vs. Damien Rascoe, forfeiture.

State of Louisiana vs. Damien Rascoe, forfeiture.

January 30

Everett Keith Emerson vs. Debra Ann Richardson, divorce.

Blaine Sanders vs. Angel Hammontree, petition.

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Billy Lee Carroll

May 11, 1947 – January 30, 2025

Minden, La.

Memorial service at a later date.

Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

John D. “Johnny” Johnson

June 21, 1942 — January 27, 2025

Minden, La.

Funeral service: 2 p.m. Friday, January, 31, 2025, First Baptist Church, Minden.

Burial: 3:15 p.m. Friday, Gardens of Memory, Minden.

Derrick Marcel Williams, Sr.

August 6, 1958 – January 22, 2025

Minden, La.

Visitation: 5 until 8 p.m. Friday, January 31, 2025, Mt. Zion CME Church, Minden.

Visitation: 10 a.m. Saturday, February 1, 2025, First Baptist Church, Minden.

Celebration of Life: 11 a.m. immediately following visitation, First Baptist Church.

Burial: Point Pleasant Cemetery, under the direction of Rose-Neath Funeral Home, Minden.

Webster Parish Journal publishes paid complete obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $80. Contact your funeral provider or wpjnewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Above death notices are no charge.)

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By Shannon Wright

The Minden St Jude Auction can easily be described as an anomaly among charity fundraising events. Generally, these events take 3-5 years to reach their peak, and they often have a short lifespan. A great run for an event would be 8-10 years.

However, the City of Minden seems to have found the secret sauce when it comes to keeping a charity fundraising event alive. This year Minden will celebrate 50 auctions benefitting St. Jude.

What is that secret sauce? No one has been able to figure it out.

Mary Beth Edwards jokingly said that volunteering to help with the event is a bit of an addiction.

“I took vacation every year from the post office to volunteer to work the phones,” Edwards said. She has been a volunteer for about 30 years now and has no plans to quit any time soon.

Back in 1998 when about 70 percent of the city was without power due to an ice storm, Mike Harper was the chairman of the board, and he suggested that they reschedule the event. The board members told him that it was impossible. People had scheduled their vacations around the event, and many travelled from other states. The show went on!

When asked what he would contribute to the longevity of the event, he said it’s not any one thing – it’s a compilation of many different aspects and many different people who are involved.

“The hospital has sent reps here to try to replicate it in other communities but to my knowledge, no one has done it nearly as successfully as we have,” Harper said.

Whatever it is, Minden has the recipe perfected.

What started from parents’ broken hearts has turned into the heartbeat of this community.

The auction will kick-off Thursday, February 6 and run until Sunday, February 9. The committee is still gathering raffle items. If your business or organization is interested in donating, please reach out to the Minden St Jude Auction Facebook page or email: mindenstjudemerch@gmail.com .

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By Bonnie Culverhouse

Since its opening, Bailee Hurley has been the manager and executive director of one of the largest venues in Webster Parish – Muddy Bottoms ATV & Recreation Park.

It has – and still will be – a very good learning experience and stepping stone for the next phase in her life.

Minden Foundation Board, a nonprofit organization that maintains a fund to provide charitable assistance, recently opened a part-time position for an executive director, and board President Andy Pendergrass said they unanimously decided Hurley’s experience made her perfect to fill the role.

Hurley’s duties will be focused on the administrative side of the foundation’s major fundraisers – the Minden Charity Classic and Shoot Out – while providing leadership for the foundation as an organization.

“She has the unique skillset to run an event,” Pendergrass said. “All the organizational structure … making sure deadlines are met.”

Hurley said that since having children she has prayed for an opportunity to serve the community in a way that would set an example for them.

“Growing up in Minden and being surrounded by so many people who have a heart for giving, I knew I wanted to find my place to do the same. The Minden Foundation gave me that opportunity in November of 2023, and it felt like the answered prayer I was searching for,” she said, speaking of joining the board of directors. “When I was approached with the opportunity to become the Executive Director of The Minden Foundation I felt ill-equipped to carry such a load, but then I remembered the prayer I had prayed for so many years and knew God was answering that prayer. It is such an honor to have so much support from The Minden Foundation board members, family, and friends. I know without a doubt that I am stepping into a new chapter that God has equipped me for and I look forward to serving our community to the best of my ability.”

Minden Foundation Board Vice President Candi Haynes said she is excited to have Hurley on board as the new executive director.

“She has already proven her passion for our mission as a volunteer board member, and now will have the opportunity to steer our organization in the direction we (current and former board members) have dreamed and planned of going,” Haynes said.

The Minden Foundation has been providing for those in need in the area for more than 20 years, Haynes pointed out.

“Those needs have grown significantly since inception of the foundation,” she said. “With the talent and dedication that Bailee brings to her leadership role as Executive Director, our abilities to further our fundraising efforts will now also be able to grow to meet the needs.”

Foundation Secretary/Treasurer Jeff Lee agrees.

“Her dedication and passion for our community will help expand our mission and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives,” Lee said. “We can’t wait to see all that we’ll achieve together.”

Founding board members Mike Woodard and Mike Harper agree with the current board’s decision.

“They have both communicated their support for the foundation’s direction and Mrs. Hurley’s leadership,” Pendergrass said.

Hurley will start her new position February 1, while continuing her spot with Muddy Bottoms.

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By Pat Culverhouse

Fraudsters posing as Minden Police Department officers have contacted several local residents recently claiming the persons have a payment due by a certain day, and local investigators are looking into the origin of the telephone-based scam.

Det. Lt. Jason Smith said investigators received calls from individuals who reportedly had been contacted over the weekend.

“These calls appear to come from an official MPD phone number, but the scammers are using spoofing technology to disguise their true identity,” Smith said. “None of the persons who reported these calls sent money, but we don’t know if there are more people contacted who did not call us.”

Residents are urged to remember some facts that could prevent the loss of money or personal information:

• Minden Police Department officers never ask anyone to bring large sums of money, especially to any location other than the police department.

• While police officers may contact suspects or victims during investigations, they will never demand a payment in lieu of arrest.

• If a fine or fee is owed, the payment must be made in person at the police department or via its official online portal.

• It is not customary for MPD officers to contact anyone prior to any fines being “due.”

“If you believe you are receiving a fraudulent call, hang up and call the police department directly at 318-377-1212. The personnel there should be able to re-route you back to the person who called you,” Smith said. “If one of these calls is found to be a fraudster, report it immediately to the police department.”

Chief of Police Jared McIver urged residents to remain vigilant and share this information to help protect others in the community.

Continue your article here…

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What do you need to make a parade? Floats … bands … dancers … these days, just about anything or anyone celebrating Mardi Gras is welcome to march, dance, throw beads and party.

Minden Main Street Chairman Shawn Hatcher said the push is on to make this year’s parade the best ever, which means more participants are needed.

“Right now, we have about 28 signed up, which means we are only halfway to our biggest parade,” Hatcher said. “I know people often wait until the last minute – because they are unsure about the weather, but it would be helpful if they would please go ahead and get on our website and register.”

The upcoming parade will roll at 5 p.m. February 15, but the fun starts at 3:30 with face painting, music, food and bounce houses.

“In the past, people who wanted to register their floats found our site hard to navigate and, even though this parade is probably the largest one in Minden, we know it can be even bigger and better,” Hatcher said.

The site is up and active right now.

Head to https://coconut-lizard-42mp.squarespace.com/mardi-gras-fasching-parade and register your float now.

Hatcher said if there are problems registering or if there are any questions, please call him at 318-272-0175. Watch Webster Parish Journal for more information.

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Celebrate Webster Parish Libraries Minden Branch from 1 to 2 p.m. Saturday, February 1. It’s an afternoon of creativity and fun

Activities Include:

Mardi Gras Slime – Make your own colorful, festive slime!

Suncatcher Art – Create art that shines and sparkles!

Marble Hearts – Craft beautiful keepsakes.

Mardi Gras Masks – Design your own mask to celebrate the season!

Take Your Child to the Library Day is a national event designed to help families discover the joy of libraries and build a love of reading and learning. It’s the perfect time to connect with your library and explore what it has to offer!

For more information, call Latishia Smith at (318) 371-3080 x110. Don’t miss out on this fun-filled day.

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Thursday

Showers. High near 73. Southeast wind 10 to 20 mph becoming southwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 30 mph. Chance of precipitation is 90 percent. New precipitation amounts between a half and three quarters of an inch possible.

Thursday Night

A 50 percent chance of showers before midnight. Cloudy during the early evening, then gradual clearing, with a low around 48. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph, with gusts as high as 25 mph.

Friday

Sunny, with a high near 65. Southwest wind 10 to 15 mph becoming northwest in the afternoon. Winds could gust as high as 20 mph.

Friday Night

Mostly clear, with a low around 41.

Saturday

Sunny, with a high near 66.

* Information provided by the National Weather Service.

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By Jessica Gorman

The Bloom Cemetery is located on private property in Webster Parish. To protect from trespassers, the exact location will not be disclosed in this article. There are three known graves located in the cemetery. 

Matthew Bloom was born in Germany and died on 15 October 1847 in what was then Claiborne Parish. The only record related to Matthew that has been found is an 1840 census record. It indicates that he was between the ages of 20 and 29 and that a female of similar age was also living in the household. The assumption would be that this record would indicate a married couple. No other record of Matthew Bloom has been found. With his death occurring in 1847 and the Claiborne Parish courthouse being lost to fire in 1849, it is likely any local record would have been destroyed. 

Also buried there are two infants, Mathew L. and James, both grandsons of Matthew Bloom. Their parents were Sebastian and Caroline Bloom. Mathew L. would have been their first-born. He was born 8 Sep 1866, only living seven months, before his death on 10 April 1867. After the death of their first child, it would seem that Mrs. Bloom soon found herself pregnant again. That child being James who sadly, just ten months later, was born and died on 4 Feb 1868. 

This is a perfect example of one of those situations that highlight why caring for our cemeteries is so important. The only information we have for Matthew Bloom and his two grandsons is what is on their gravestones. That is all that is left to say they even existed. 

The boys’ father, Sebastian, is the only verified child of Matthew Bloom, as of yet. He was only 5 years old at the time of his father’s death. It is unknown what happened to his mother or even who she was. No trace of Sebastian has been found in census records for either 1850 or 1860, although a page-by-page search has not yet been completed. The next record found for Sebastian is his enlistment in the Civil War. He was conscripted in August 1862 and was captured at the siege of Vicksburg on 4 July 1863.  

After the war, Sebastian was married to Caroline Nickerson. In October 1866, he purchased 80 acres of land from Cynthia Logan and established the Bloom homeplace on Old Arcadia Road. As previously indicated, their first two children died in 1867 and 1868. The couple’s third child, Emma, was born 29 January 1869. She lived to adulthood, but died at the age of 30, never having married. She is buried at Mt. Zion cemetery. It is likely that the couple’s next child was Pearl, born 13 June 1871. She married Benjamin Gruner. Then came Sallie Elizabeth, born 14 July 1873, who married John Craton. 

The details of the family get a little fuzzier from here. I have yet to find them on the 1880 census, but again, a page-by-page search is still needed. It is known that Ruth Bloom was born 6 Feb 1880. She never married and died at the age of 28. A son, Sebastian Bloom, Jr., was born 6 Sep 1882, but like his older brothers, he only lived a short time and died at only ten months old. Also during the 1880s, Sebastian expanded the family homeplace adding 120 acres in 1884 and another 40 acres in 1888. 

We again lose track of the family until 1900. In that year, the household consisted of Sebastian, Caroline, and daughter Ruth who was then 20 years old. Daughters Pearl and Sallie had both married. The census record for that year reveals a sad statistic. It indicates that Caroline was the mother of ten children, but only three were living. If this is correct, there were four other children who have not been accounted for. Caroline herself died just two years later. Ruth followed in 1908. 

Sebastian Bloom outlived his entire family with the exception of one daughter, Pearl Gruner. He died 23 December 1931. He had just celebrated his 90th birthday. He and other members of the Bloom family are buried at Mt. Zion Cemetery just east of Minden.

(Jessica Gorman is Executive Director of the Dorcheat Historical Association Museum, Webster Parish Historian, and an avid genealogist.)

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Springhill, LA – The Cajun Gypsy celebrated its official grand opening recently with a ribbon-cutting event at 807 North Arkansas Street. The ceremony drew an enthusiastic crowd, including local leaders, business representatives, and community members.

Several prominent members of the Springhill Chamber of Commerce were in attendance, including Board Vice President Courtney Hash, representing Bonvenu Bank, and Brandy White, representing First Baptist Church. Members of the Krewe of Artemis and staff from Springhill Post Acute and Rehabilitation also showed their support, making the event a true community celebration.

Amber Cobb, Executive Director of the Springhill North Webster Chamber of Commerce, shared her excitement live on air during a broadcast with KBEF Radio and HD Ainsworth, highlighting the significance of a new restaurant on Highway 371. She praised the Cajun Gypsy for its convenient location with ample parking, an enticing menu, and an exceptional team, confidently stating that it is poised to become a local favorite.

The event marked an important milestone for Cajun Gypsy as it opened its doors to serve the Springhill community. The restaurants’ launch reflects the areas’ vibrant growth and shared commitment to fostering new businesses.

For more information about Cajun Gypsy, visit 807 South Arkansas Street or find them on Facebook, @CajunGypsyCatering.

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