Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Deputies responded to assist the Louisiana Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) in reference to a report of alleged cruelty to juveniles in the Alexandria area on June 9. Deputies took the initial report and Sheriff’s Detectives assigned to the Special Victims Unit (SVU) were assigned the case for further investigation.
SVU Detectives assisted DCFS with their investigation as well as gathering additional evidence of other alleged crimes for the investigation through RPSO. As their investigation continued, Detectives were able to establish sufficient probable cause that supported allegations of misconduct involving juveniles by the suspects, identified as Melinda Gayle Baldwin, 47, and Richard Anthony Carlino, 61.
Detectives obtained warrants for the arrest of both Baldwin and Carlino.
On July 13 an operation was conducted by SVU Detectives along with the assistance of RADE Agents and RPSO SWAT, at the suspects residence at 2312 Willowood Lane in Alexandria. Both suspects were located and taken into custody without incident and booked into Rapides Parish Detention Center. Both Baldwin and Carlino were arrested for two counts Cruelty to Juveniles and two counts Illegal use of controlled dangerous substance in the presence of persons under 17. Carlino was released the following day on a $40,000 bond. Baldwin was released on July 18th on a $40,000 bond.
Detectives state their investigation is ongoing and if anyone has any information relating to this investigation, you are asked to contact SVU Detective Paulk at 318-473-6727.
“ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW OR ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION.”
Arrestee:
Melinda Gayle Baldwin, 47
2312 Willowood Lane, Alexandria LA
Charge(s):
Two counts – Cruelty to Juveniles
Two counts – Illegal use of controlled dangerous substance in the presence of persons under 17
Arrestee:
Richard Anthony, 61
2312 Willowood Lane, Alexandria, LA
Charge(s):
Two counts – Cruelty to Juveniles
Two counts – Illegal use of controlled dangerous substance in the presence of persons under 17