Oak Hill releases July call data, issues reminder of summer raffle

Oak Hill Fire Department has released its data relating to calls made between July 20 and July 26.

Medical – 2
Traffic Hazard – 1
 
This makes for a total of 3 calls for the reporting period and a total of 274 calls for the year so far.
 
The Oak Hill Fire Department wants to remind everyone not to forget Summer Raffle 2025. All of the firefighters and volunteers have tickets for this raffle. Tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. These are some of the firefighters that have tickets and would appreciate support: Travis Cutts, Blake Horton, Shawnta & Nick Bolinger, Amanda & Columbus Rhame, Melissa Rhame, Jordan Jones, Ryan Carr, Robert Carraway, and Nikki Carlock.

As a reminder, there are four prizes this year up for grabs. They are as follows.

  • Oak Hill Fire Department T-shirt Blanket
  • American Flag Crocheted Blanket
  • $200 gift card to Sissy’s Restaurant
  • 2 large pizzas and 1 2-liter drink from Leebo’s Hineston

Three young Alexandria men hit with $3 million bail each on six attempted murder charges; Two suspects arrested for fourth OWIs, draw six-figure bails

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Aug. 3

Ladarrius Dajon Bush, 22, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Mackinley Slayde Elder, 24, Marksville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Kista Keontae Garrett, 26, Alexandria – battery of a dating partner, probation violation, three counts contempt of court, $7,500 bail;

Laken Gaspard, 29, Baton Rouge – OWI first offense, speeding, no child restraint system, $1,200 bail;

Scott Patrick Lewis, 20, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, improper turn, $1,200 bail;

Logan Reese Perry, 27, Iowa – OWI second offense, running a red light, $1,600 bail;

Jose Romero 26, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, no driver’s license, $1,200 bail.

 

Aug. 2

Megail Lee Austin, 24, Alexandria – simple burglary, contempt of court, $20,000 bail;

Daniel Noah Bakies, 43, Alexandria – unauthorized entry into an inhabited dwelling, battery of a dating partner, criminal damage to property, criminal mischief, $1,000 bail;

Mario Valdez Hernandez, 44, Alexandria – OWI second offense, contempt of court, possession of drug paraphernalia, illegal carrying of weapons, reckless operation of a vehicle, $5,500 bail;

Lindsie Michelle Moras, 22, Marksville – OWI first offense, speeding, expired MVI sticker, tail lamps, $1,300 bail;

Nachia Renee Stafford, 37, Alexandria – simple burglary, contempt of court, $2,000 bail;

Brayan Steven, 22, New Orleans – illegal possession of a stolen firearm, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, no driver’s license, improper display vehicle license plate, $1,200 bail.

 

Aug. 1

Anthony Charles Ashby, 56, Alexandria – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, $1,100 bail;

Paula Rena Barton, 43, Alexandria – three counts possession of fentanyl, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, paraphernalia, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, four counts contempt of court, $11,000 bail;

Queneshia Barton 24, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, two counts possession of fentanyl, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, paraphernalia, $1,000 bail;

Brooke Lindsay Benson, 32, Willis, Texas – possession of CDS, improper turn, paraphernalia, $1,600 bail;

Latonya Marsalis Collins, 44, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, paraphernalia, two counts possession of fentanyl, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, eight counts contempt of court, $16,000 bail;

Makari Kieon Cotton, 20, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, paraphernalia, probation violation, $500 bail;

Kwame Ankro Davis Jr, 29, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, paraphernalia, use of CDS in presence of minor, no child restraint system, modified exhaust, $1,200 bail;

Gregory Dale Hattaway, 64, Pineville – possession of CDS, obstruction of driver’s view, two counts contempt of court, $52,600 bail;

D’antay R. Henderson, 24, Alexandria – possession of firearm by convicted felon, probation violation, $5,100 bail;

Daequan Holmes, 29, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, two counts possession of fentanyl, two counts possession of synthetic cannabinoid, two counts possession of CDS, contempt of court, probation violation, $9,000 bail;

Travis Darnell James Sr., 53, Alexandria – possession of CDS, contempt of court, $6,500 bail;

Mallory Kade McGoogan, 22, Alexandria – simple burglary, four counts possession of CDS, obscenity, $11,500 bail;

Michael Anthony Miles Jr, 18, Boyce – second degree murder, possession of handgun by juvenile, aggravated second degree battery, criminal conspiracy, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, simple battery, $450,500 bail;

Marlene G. Norman, 57, Forest Hill – OWI fourth offense, $100,000 bail;

Nicholas Benjamin Odom Jr, 22, Pineville – possession of a firearm by convicted felon, safety belt violation, contempt of court, $1,600 bail;

Derrick Smith, 47, Alexandria – possession of fentanyl, possession of marijuana, possession of fentanyl, possession of synthetic cannabinoid, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, two counts contempt of court, $64,500 bail;

Anthony Taylor, 47, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, three counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Cedric Latrell Thomas, 45, Glenmora – two counts possession of CDS, use of CDS in presence of minor, legend drug possession, $1,500 bail;

J’Marion Williams, 21, Alexandria – six counts attempted second degree murder, criminal conspiracy, $3.05 million bail.

 

July 31

Derek Lydell Beauregard, 20, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, contempt of court, $6,500 bail;

Diquaris Deshunn Dixon, 26, Alexandria – home invasion, $10,000 bail;

Derek Jarmell Green, 44, Colfax – four counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS and fentanyl with intent, paraphernalia, Louisiana fugitive, $55,500 bail;

Kenneth L. Kingston, 63, Dry Prong – two counts bank fraud, theft, Louisiana fugitive, $15,000 bail;

Aaron Lee Macy, 26, Pineville – OWI first offense, open container, $1,100 bail;

Derrick Moore, 28, Alexandria – Louisiana fugitive, six counts contempt of court, $300,000 bail;

Bradrick Jeron Smith, 47, Alexandria – pedestrians on highways, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $3,100 bail;

Allen Lee Taylor, 38, Alexandria – possession of CDS, bicycle reflectors, contempt of court, $4,600 bail.

 

July 30

Kevin Brown 61, Alexandria – OWI fourth offense, safety belt, open container, unlawful refusal to submit to chemical test, operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, $200,600 bail;

Isaiah Burns, 17, Alexandria – six counts attempted second degree murder, criminal conspiracy, $3.05 million bail;

John Willis Bynog, 36, Alexandria – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, parole violations, $3,000 bail;

Bobby Ray Cheney Jr, 50, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, trespassing, paraphernalia, contempt of court, $8,000 bail;

Briviante Datwan Conston, 33, Pineville – illegal carrying of a weapon, aggravated assault domestic abuse, possession of firearm by convicted felon, probation violation, $40,500 bail;

William Jerald Cook, 59, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, simple kidnapping, sexual battery, simple battery, resisting an officer, flight from an officer, possession of CDS, possession of drug paraphernalia, $295,500 bail;

Catriona Nichole Cooper, 29, Simmesport – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, flight from an officer, resisting an officer, $4,000 bail;

Therman Early Davion Jr, 50, Boyce – possession of CDS, possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, headlights required, expired MVI sticker, safety belt violation, $3,800 bail;

Bernard Ellis III, 19, Alexandria — six counts attempted second degree murder, criminal conspiracy, contempt of court, $3.052 million bail;

Quantavius D’Shaun Frazier, 30, Alexandria – criminal trespass, resisting an officer, two counts possession of CDS, parole violations, $4,000 bail;

John T. Jones Jr., 22, Pineville – four counts contempt of court, probation violation, failure to appear, $18,000 bail;

Lauren Lynne Meynard, 43, Alexandria – switched license plate, driving under suspension, safety belt violation, two counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $4,800 bail;

Dwight Edwin Poole, 69, Boyce – simple escape, four counts contempt of court, $120,000 bail;

Steven Jo Ray, 48, Alexandria – violation of protective orders, $25,000 bail;

Mitchell A. St. Julien Jr., 48, Alexandria – aggravated arson, $100,000 bail;

Katie Renee Sweat, 32, Elizabeth – possession of CDS, three counts contempt of court, $154,000 bail.


Save the date: Author of the Month Mike Wynne book signing at RPL Aug. 14

Mike Wynne will be doing a book signing at Westside Regional Library for his latest book, Haunted Central Louisiana, on Thursday, Aug. 14, 11am-12:30pm. 
 
The public will have the opportunity to be the very first to obtain noted author Michael Wynne’s new book, Haunted Central Louisiana, the complete and true story of the ghosts and spirits who roam forever through Central Louisiana.
 
New Orleans doesn’t hold a monopoly on Louisiana’s haunted lore. Souls who brave the shadows along the bayous and byways of Central Louisiana will encounter a haunted heritage centuries in the making. From the legends swirling about Alexandria’s historic Hotel Bentley and the Old Pineville City Hall to an exploration of an abandoned speakeasy in downtown Alexandria, explore the spirted legacy of the Crossroads of Louisiana.
 
Contact 318-442-2483 for more information.

Notice of Death – August 3, 2025

Lisa Marie Pilgrim
October 26, 1972 – August 1, 2025
Service: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 11am at Tioga First Baptist Church, Pineville. 

Opra Sanchez
October 18, 1944 – August 1, 2025
Service: Tuesday, August 5, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Alfred Lamar McBroom
December 4, 1935 – July 31, 2025
Service: Monday, August 4, 2025, 2pm at Faith Baptist Church, Tioga.

Karen Marie Taylor
July 27, 1939 – July 30, 2025
Service: Thursday, August 7, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Herbert Lee Cole
February 9, 1948 – July 29, 2025
Service: Monday, August 4, 2025, 10am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Billy Ray Strother
December 18, 1931 – July 29, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 9, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Cecilia Jean Berlin Hotard
April 19, 1949 – July 27, 2025
Service: Monday August 4, 2025, 12pm at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Edward L. McGuire
June 7, 1937 – July 17, 2025
Service: Friday, August 8, 2025, 12pm at Gallagher Funeral Home, Ball. 

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com)

Get the Rapides Parish Journal each Weekday morning at 6:55am to your inbox – It’s FREE!


Traffic Alert – US 165 & US 167 (Kingsville Interchange) outside travel lanes to close

Beginning Tuesday, Aug. 5, at 9am, the Department of Transportation and Development (DOTD) will close the outside travel lanes of US 165 (northbound and southbound) and all ramps at the US 167 interchange for road reconstruction. 

Work is expected to wrap up by January 2026. The work is being done on Hwy 165 and various lanes will be closed during the entirety of the project.

A 12-ft width restriction will be in place between US 165 Business and US 71.

Allow extra travel time and stay alert in the area.


City of Alexandria issues reminder about storm drains

Ever wonder where stormwater goes? Storm drains in Alexandria lead directly to rivers and bayous — with no treatment or filtering. That’s why it’s so important to keep anything but rainwater out of the system.

When it comes to what goes in, the rule is simple: only rain down the drain.

Let’s work together to keep neighborhoods clean and waterways safe. Learn more about the City’s environmental services and how the public can make a difference: https://www.cityofalexandriala.com/environmental-services


Sayes Annual Youth Fishing Tournament to be held this Saturday

Sayes Office Supply will host its annual Youth Fishing Tournament this Saturday, Aug. 2, from safe daylight to 10:30am at Cotile Lake Park Landing. 

The tournament will feature two age groups – 3-to-8-year-olds and 9-to-14-year-olds. There will be three fish classes: bass, bream, and white perch. The cost to enter is $10 per child. 

The first 400 entries to the tournament will receive a free Zebco rod-and-reel. The Rapides High School Fishing Team will be on site to help contestants with tips and tricks. 

Enter to win bicycles, door prizes, and a lifetime hunting license (must be present to win). 

Hamburgers and drinks will be furnished to all contestants and parents/guardians. 


RPL to host ‘For the Love of Food’ Monday

The Main Library of Rapides Parish Library will host its monthly cooking demonstration by a skilled local chef “For the Love of Food” on Monday, Aug. 4, 5:30-7:30pm. 
 
This month the chef is Amarjit Pillarisetti from Lal Mirch School of Cooking. Participants will enjoy a fun and interactive session where they’ll learn new recipes, sample delicious dishes, and explore cookbooks from the RPL collection. This free event is open to all—come hungry and leave inspired.
 
Seating is limited. Registrations are required. 
 
Contact 318-445-2411 for more information.

PPD seeking the public’s assistance in identifying theft suspect

The Pineville Police Department is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a woman who committed a theft at a local business.

The individual was caught on security camera placing an item into her purse at a local convenience store. 

If anyone recognizes her or has any information, please contact PPD; they can be reached via Facebook. As always, all tips can remain anonymous.

Let’s work together to keep local businesses thriving!


For Sale by Owner: Sibley Lake Waterfront

112 Cypress Cove, Sibley Lake

Beautiful, rare Sibley Lake waterfront lot available in the established neighborhood of Oak Point Estates. Perfect location to build your Dream Home.

Address for lot is 112 Cypress Cove on a quiet cul-de-sac street. Lot has 128 feet of water frontage with picturesque lake views.

Subject to restrictions of the Oak Point Estates Homeowner’s Association.

Single Lot: $82,500.00

Contact Owner:
Cell: 318-393-8536

eMail: mes022@yahoo.com

Ward: One
Type: Real Property
Legal: Lot 57 of Oak Point Estates Subdivision, Phase #3 in Section 47-9-7 (112 Cypress Cove)

Paid Content


Notice of Death – July 31, 2025

Herbert Lee Cole
February 9, 1948 – July 29, 2025
Service: Monday, August 4, 2025, 10am at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Billy Ray Strother
December 18, 1931 – July 29, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 9, 2025, 12pm at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Bradley R. “Pops” Harmson
October 7, 1965 – July 28, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 11:30am at Big Island Baptist Church, Deville.

John Franklin Arledge, Jr.
October 24, 1947 – July 27, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 12:15pm at Forest Lawn Memorial Park Cemetery, Ball.

Cecilia Jean Berlin Hotard
April 19, 1949 – July 27, 2025
Service: Monday August 4, 2025, 12pm at Our Lady of Prompt Succor Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Betty Clair Wilmore
May 9, 1937 – July 27, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 10am at St. Rita Catholic Church, Alexandria.

Bernard Stanley Petroskey
October 10, 1944 – July 26, 2025
Service: Friday, August 1, 2025, 10am at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Doris Lane Brunett
September 8, 1933 – July 25, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 12pm at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville.

Dr. Haywood Berkley Joiner, Jr.
October 12, 1946 – July 23, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 11am at St. Matthew Baptist Church, Boyce.

Juan McNeal
June 11, 1970 – July 21, 2025
Service: Saturday, August 2, 2025, 11am at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, Alexandria. 

The Rapides Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or RPJNewsla@gmail.com . Must be paid in advance of publication. (Notice of Death shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to RPJNewsla@gmail.com)

Get the Rapides Parish Journal each Weekday morning at 6:55am to your inbox – It’s FREE!