Ouachita Parish Sheriff Deputies working perimeter security and surveillance at the Ouachita Parish Correctional Center observed suspicious activity at the exterior perimeter fence.  As Compound Security Deputies began converging on the location, the suspect vehicle fled.  After a short chase and crash the driver was apprehended.  Deputies located the packages that the driver, Jeremy Black, had planned to deliver.  The packages contained a large amount of Marijuana and electronic equipment (contraband).  The driver was arrested for the following charges and will be booked at OCC following his release from the hospital;

Attempted Introduction of contraband to a penal facility,  Poss. Of Marijuana WITD, Conspiracy to Dist Marijuana, and Aggravated Flight From an Officer.

The investigation is ongoing with more arrests possible.

On June 12^th around 5:30 pm, an off-duty OPSO deputy observed several suspicious people near a residence on Forty Oaks Farm Road in West Monroe. A subsequent investigation revealed that Noah Miller, 17, and a 14 year old juvenile, both of West Monroe were responsible for 5 vehicle burglaries in and around this neighborhood. Deputies were able to recover 2 firearms, ammunition, knives, a flashlight and personal documents from these suspects.

The investigation confirmed that on or around May 28^ththat Miller and the juvenile had entered unlocked vehicles on Lakewood Drive, East Ironwood Drive and Oakwood Drive. Both were arrested with the juvenile being taken to Green Oaks Detention Center and Miller being booked into OCC on simple burglary charges. Sheriff Jay Russell commends the work of these deputies in quickly apprehending the suspects and recovering the stolen property.

Noah Miller

An investigation involving severe burns to a 2 year old victim has resulted in the arrest of a Monroe man.  Jonathan D. Wilson, age 23, has been charged with one count of Cruelty to a Juvenile.  Ouachita Sheriff’s Investigators believe the victim received severe burns in a bathtub of hot water at a Curve Drive residence June 15^th, 2014.   Investigation revealed that Wilson failed to seek medical treatment for the victim and returned the child to his mother the following day.  The victim was airlifted to a Shreveport hospital for what is believed to be non-life threatening injuries.

The investigation is ongoing with the possibility of additional charges.

Ouachita Parish Sheriff Deputies are currently investigating a hit and run accident involving a pedestrian that occurred on Ole Highway 15 in western Ouachita Parish on June 10, 2014 at approximately 7:25 a.m.   The suspect vehicle has been described as a 2000 or similar year model General Motors fleet side extended cab truck, either Chevrolet or GMC. Vehicle is described as being a light tan or gold metallic color with Louisiana Handicap license plates, numerals unknown at this time.  Vehicle also had a Handicap Permit attached to the inside rear view mirror. Damage to the truck will be on the right front quarter panel area and the passenger side outside mirror may  be missing, as one  was recovered at the scene.  The driver has been described as a white male, approximately 65 years of age, with medium length white hair and white facial hair. The photograph of the truck below is believed to be similar to the suspect vehicle, possibly a slight color variance and minor cosmetic differences.

Anyone with any information regarding this accident is asked to contact the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, 318-329-1200.

Similiar style truck

Steven Casey Morris, 29, of West Monroe is wanted by the OPSO for one count of Arson.   What began as an investigation of a motor vehicle theft that occurred in Union Parish has led to a warrant being issued in Ouachita Parish for the suspect on the charge.  Morris is also wanted by Union Parish authorities for First Degree Robbery, Theft of a Motor vehicle and Domestic Abuse Battery.  The investigations are continuing and more charges are expected.

Anyone with any information on the suspect is asked to contact the Ouachita Parish Sheriffs Office.

Steven Casey Morris

UPDATE:  West Monroe man charged with pornography

An investigation conducted by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Special Victims Unit, assisted by the FBI and Louisiana State Police, has resulted in the arrest of a West Monroe man on pornography charges.  Michael Hunt, age 39, 111 Violet Street, West Monroe, has been booked at OCC on the charge of Possession of Pornography Involving a Juvenile.

While conducting an investigation into child pornography, deputies of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Special Victims Unit went to the residence of 111 Violet St. in West Monroe to contact Michael Hunt, age 39.  Upon observing the deputies arriving at the residence, Hunt closed the door and would not communicate with the deputies.  Several attempts were made to contact Hunt and after a short period of time, he voluntarily surrendered to deputies without incident.  The investigation is continuing and charges are pending.

On June 28^th, while off-duty, Deputy Jonathan Hankins heard screaming coming from the pool area of an apartment complex.  While responding to that area, he was advised someone was drowning in the pool.  Arriving at the pool, he observed the young female victim completely submerged in the water.  Deputy Hankins entered the pool and pulled the victim out.  She appeared to be unconscious and not breathing on her own.  Deputy Hankins immediately began administering CPR, which restored breathing and the victim regained consciousnesses. The responding West Monroe PD officer arrived at this time and assisted in rendering further aid.   Deputy Hankins’s quick response and life-saving efforts saved the life of the young swimmer. Sheriff Russell and the deputies of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office are proud of the actions of Deputy Jonathan Hankins.

Deputy Jonathan Hankins

A month long investigation into stolen property and illegal narcotics has led to the arrest of Byron Castor, 34, of West Monroe.  Information developed during this investigation indicated Castor was trading illegal narcotics for property.  It is believed the majority of the property is related to burglaries and thefts in Ouachita Parish.   Early this morning, members of the OPSO Swat Team executed a search warrant at Castor’s residence.

A search of the residence led to the recovery of a stolen ATV. Deputies also seized a large quantity of electronics, including flat screen televisions, computers and cell phones.  Castor was found to be in possession of Methamphetamine, Marijuana and drug paraphernalia. 

Castor has been booked into OCC for 2 counts of Illegal Possession of Stolen things, Possession of Marijuana, Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute, 2 counts of Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Distribution of Methamphetamine.  Additional arrests and charges are pending.

Sheriff Jay Russell commends the deputies of the Sheriff’s Investigations Division, SCAT Team and Metro Narcotics personnel for working together to make the arrest.

Recovered Property

Byron Castor

Ouachita Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating attempted child abduction in the Bawcomville area of West Monroe.  Investigation revealed two young children were playing near Brown St. in Bawcomville earlier today.

The unknown suspect parked a vehicle near the children, exited the vehicle and attempted to grab them.  The children resisted and were able to break free from the suspect.  The suspect then left the scene in the vehicle.

The suspect is described as a white female, thin build, ruddy complexion with reddish-orange hair.  Observed in the vehicle was a white male, thin build with brown hair.  Three young children were also observed in the vehicle with the white male.

The suspect vehicle is described as a 4 door white car, no other information at this time.  The vehicle was last seen in the Hinton Street area of Bawcomville.

Anyone with any information concerning this incident or observing anyone or a vehicle matching the description is asked to contact the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, 318-329-1200.

Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Investigators are currently investigating a theft of a 2011 Polaris Ranger Razor UTV.  The UTV is described as a 4 seat model, black in color, with dual exhausts and a roof panel.  The right rear fender is missing.

Based on witness testimony, the theft occurred during daylight hours on July 22, 2014 from the Treasure Island Subdivision area.  The suspect is described as a white male with a goatee.  The suspect vehicle is described as a dark colored dually truck with a tow hitch attached, pulling a trailer.  The truck reportedly had a yellow light on the cab but no visible marking identifying company ownership.

Based on witness testimony concerning the actions of the suspect and the truck used, it appears the suspect may be a posing as a repossession company to commit the theft and avoid attention.

Anyone with information concerning this theft or similar activity is asked to contact the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, 318-329-1200.

Photo of stolen UTV

        UPDATE:  Both juveniles have been located.

Ouachita Sheriff’s Deputies are asking your help in locating two reported runaway juveniles from the Calhoun Area.  Chyanne Taylor, age 12 and William Taylor, age 13, reportedly left their residence during the early morning hours of Wednesday, July 23^rd, 2014.  Anyone with information on these two juveniles is asked to call the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, 318-329-1200.

Chyanne and William Taylor

 Ouachita Sheriff’s Deputies are investigating the theft of a Kawasaki 650 Brute Force ATV.  It is described as being black in color with Kawasaki green front and rear racks.  The ATV was taken from a residence in the Slocum Road area on or about July 22-23, 2014.  Anyone with any information concerning this theft is asked to contact the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-329-1200.

  

Stolen Kawasaki Brute Force

The Multi-Jurisdictional Task Force conducted two street crime operations during the past two weeks.  The first was conducted July 21^st, 22^nd and 23^rd.  The second was conducted July 31^st, August 1^st and August 2^nd.   All areas of Ouachita Parish, including the municipalities of Sterlington, Monroe and West Monroe were targeted.  The Task Force was comprised of Sheriff’s Deputies and Police Officers from eight local agencies.                                                              

Statistics for the 6 Day Operation                                                     

 Arrests

Warrant Arrests:                                                            92

Drug Arrests:                                                                 129

Other Felony or Misdemeanor Arrests:                             20

Total Arrests:                                                                  241

Knock and Talks:                                                              6

Citations:                                                                         165

DWI’s:                                                                                   3

Drug Seizures

Seizures reflect one or more arrests with exceptions of ¼ ounce and 1/8 ounce bags of marijuana and marijuana cigarettes in which totals for the month are combined

 Marijuana

(1) pound

(4.5) ounces

(11) ¼ oz. bags

(64) 1/8 oz. bags

(118.5) grams

(1) marijuana plant

(32) marijuana cigarettes

(1) bag synthetic marijuana

Cocaine, Methamphetamine, Heroin Ecstasy, PCP etc.

(10) rocks of crack cocaine

(6.5) grams of cocaine

(121.5) grams of methamphetamine

(2) oz. of PCP

(1) PCP cigarette

Prescription Pills

(305) units of assorted prescription pills

Other Miscellaneous Seizures

$1835.00  cash

(3)  motor vehicles

(17)  firearms

(1) meth lab

 Task Force Agencies Participating: 

Monroe Police Department

West Monroe Police Department

Louisiana State Police

Louisiana Department of Public Safety

ULM Police Department

Sterlington Police Department

Metro Narcotics

Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Department

4^th Judicial District Attorney’s Office

The Metro Narcotics Street Crime Unit, comprised of Metro Narcotics, the Ouachita Sheriff’s SCAT Team and the West Monroe Police Street Crimes Unit, conducted an operation in the 200 block of Wheelis Street in West Monroe August 7, 2014.  The investigation resulted in the arrest of three West Monroe residents on numerous drug related charges and a substantial drug seizure.  All three were booked in OCC on the listed charges.

  Marcus A. Thomas  Age: 42

Chg: 1 ct. Possession of Schedule II Narcotics

   Audrey Blaine Powell  Age: 28

Chgs: 2 cts. Possession of Schedule II Narcotics with Intent to Distribute

1 ct. Possession of Schedule IV Narcotics with Intent to Distribute

1 ct. Possession of Schedule III Narcotics

1 ct. Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

1 ct. Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

1 ct. Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics

 Brittany L. Warner  Age: 27

Chgs: 2 cts. Possession of Schedule II Narcotics with Intent to Distribute

1 ct. Possession of Schedule IV Narcotics with Intent to Distribute

1 ct. Possession of Schedule III Narcotics

1 ct. Possession of Drug Paraphernalia

1 ct. Conspiracy to Distribute Schedule II Narcotics

Seized:

-Approximately 1.47 lbs. of Methamphetamine (est. street value-$66,400)

-Approximately 1.5 oz. of Marijuana

-90 Oxycodone pills

-3 Firearms

On August 9, 2014, deputies with the Metro Narcotics Street Crime Unit initiated a traffic stop of a commercial tractor-trailer car hauler on I-20 near Camp Road in West Monroe.  Subsequent investigation revealed 39 kilos of powder cocaine were in a hidden compartment of one of the vehicles on the hauler.  The driver of the hauler, Esai A. Valencia, age 26 and the passenger, Adan B. Valencia, age 46, were arrested and each booked at OCC on 1 Ct. Possession with Intent to Distribute/Manufacture of CDS II and 1 ct. Criminal Conspiracy.  The estimated street value of the cocaine is $3.9 million dollars.  The Metro Narcotics Street Crime Unit is comprised of Metro Narcotics, the Ouachita Sheriff’s SCAT Team and the West Monroe Police Street Crime Unit.

Esai Aden Valencia

Adan Baltazar Valencia

Seized Cocaine

An arson investigation conducted jointly by the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office Investigators and the Ouachita Parish Fire Department has resulted in the arrest of Laurence William McDonald, age 48 and Jennifer Ann Cormier, age 48, both of Calhoun.  During the investigation of a recent fire damaging an occupied residence in western Ouachita Parish, felony warrants were issued for both suspects.  Earlier today, Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Warrant Division Deputies and Ashley County Deputies located both suspects in Ashley County and both were taken into custody on the warrant charges.  McDonald is charged with 2 cts. of Attempted Second Degree Murder and Aggravated Arson.  Cormier is charged with Accessory After the Fact relating to the 2 cts. of Attempted Murder and Arson charges. Both were booked in the Ashley County, Arkansas Jail and are now being held at OCC on the charges.

Laurence William McDonald

Jennifer Ann Cormier

During the early morning hours of Aug. 20^th, 2014, a Uniform Patrol Deputy conducted a traffic stop on I-20 in West Monroe.  Subsequent investigation revealed the driver, Quontell C. Gilliam, Monroe, LA., had approximately 5.5 lbs. of packaged Marijuana in the car.  Gilliam was arrested and booked at OCC on the charge of Possession with Intent to Distribute Schedule I CDS.

Sheriff Russell commends the work of the deputy and other members of the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Patrol Division for being alert and observant of suspected criminal activity while patrolling Ouachita Parish.

Quontell C. Gilliam

Seized Marijuana

Ouachita Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a reported armed robbery in western Ouachita Parish on August 18, 2014.  The suspect allegedly approached the victim demanding money and her purse. The victim refused and struggled with the suspect, during which he struck the victim several times with a handgun and then fled the scene, without taking the purse or money. Ouachita Sheriff’s Investigators are currently seeking the suspect described in the composite sketch below. 

Armed Robbery Suspect Composite Drawing

 Sheriff Russell reminds drivers that the Louisiana Legislature passed a new law effective August 1, 2014 prohibiting the use of mobile devices in school zones.  “Laws have been in place regarding certain uses of mobile devices while driving for some time, however this new law prohibits any use of a mobile device in a designated school zone with very limited exceptions,” Sheriff Russell said.  “We all recognize the dangers of using a mobile device in general while driving, but the danger is increased dramatically if the driver is in a school zone.  Children’s safety is the reason for this law”, he added.  In an effort to make motorists aware of the new statute and further help insure children’s safety, the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Deputies are placing signs in the parish school zones advising of the new law.

Louisiana Revised Statute Title 32:300.8:

• If you’re driving through a school zone during posted hours, it is against the law to use your cell phone or other mobile device for any reason, including:
• Making a phone call.
• Texting.
• Social networking.

The only exceptions to this rule are if:

• You need to report an emergency (including traffic hazards or accidents).
• Your personal safety is at risk.
• You need to report or avert a criminal act against someone (including yourself).
• You are legally parked.
• You operate an emergency vehicle and must use your cell phone as part of your job.

If you are caught illegally using your cell phone in a school zone, you will be charged with a moving violation. The fine for a first offense is $175 and any second or subsequent offenses carry a fine of up to $500.

On September 3, 2014, Deputies of the Metro Narcotics Street Crime Unit conducted an investigation in the Laura Wilkes Road area in western Ouachita Parish.  The operation resulted in the arrest of two west Ouachita residents.  Demarious Dubose and Dextor Dubose were arrested and booked at OCC on numerous drug charges. Approximately 780 Xanax bars valued at $6,240 and approx. 1/4 lb. of Marijuana was seized.  The Metro Narcotics Street Crime Unit is comprised of the Metro Narcotics, OPSO SCAT Team and the West Monroe Police Street Crime units.

Demarious Dubose

1. Possession of CDS I with Intent to Dist. (Marijuana)

2. Possession of CDS IV with Intent to Dist.  (Xanax)

3. Possession of CDS in Presence of Juveniles

4. Resisting an Officer

5. Aiding and Abetting

6. Obstruction of Justice

Dexter Dubose

1.  Possession of CDS I  with Intent to Dist.  (Marijuana)

2. Possession of  CDS IV with Intent to Dist. (Xanax)

3. Possession of CDS in Presence of Juveniles

4. Resisting an Officer

5.  Obstruction of Justice