Downtown Alexandria was the place to be for holiday magic as the Alexandria Museum of Art held it’s 10^th annual Illuminated Procession Friday, December 5. Twenty-four fanciful “Iluminaries” wore handmade costumes lit by LED lights and portraying everything from Santa and polar bears to the ghosts of Christmas from Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”. The Iluminaries seem to float as the marchers dance and move through the procession. They were joined by Miss Fete, Gracen Beebe. Ms. Beebe is the first person chosen as Miss Fete and is an Agricultural Education major at LSUA. The procession was led by the indefatigable young men and women of the Pineville Elementary School Drumline. These talented musicians kept up a steady drumbeat throughout the procession.

Winterfete is a delightful local tradition in its 10^th year that sets the standard for economical family enjoyment. In addition to the AMoA’s Illuminated Procession, there is an ice-skating rink, jumpy castles, food truck, a lighted maze, and the opportunity for children to meet Santa and Mrs. Claus and fill them in on their Christmas wishes. There are also a variety of live music and arts and craft booths at the Indie Village as well as superb drone and fireworks shows. There is no admission fee to attend Winterfete.

The Beaver Lake Renewable Energy project in Pineville is emerging as one of the most significant industrial investments in Central Louisiana in decades.

Positioned on the former International Paper mill site on Williams Lake Road, the project is set to transform an idle industrial footprint into a next-generation wood-to-methanol production facility, backed by $2.5 billion in private capital and extensive local support.

Announced publicly in 2023, the Beaver Lake project has steadily advanced through engineering, permitting, community engagement, and supply-chain planning. According to Louisiana Economic Development (LED), the facility is projected to generate more than 650 high-wage direct and indirect jobs paying approximately 60 percent above the regional average, along with more than 1,100 construction jobs at peak activity. The plant is expected to begin construction next year.

Once online, the facility will convert roughly 2.5 million tons of sustainable wood fiber annually into more than 530,000 tons of low-carbon methanol. That product will travel by barge down the Red River to Gulf Coast ports, where it will enter markets with strong demand for cleaner fuels. To meet customer requirements, the project will capture and transport approximately half of its CO₂ emissions to a licensed sequestration site more than 50 miles away.

Local business leaders and forestry industry executives have expressed strong support for what the project means for the region’s timber economy.

“This project represents a major long-term commitment to Louisiana’s forestry sector,” said Scott Poole, President and COO of Roy O. Martin. “A facility of this scale strengthens markets for landowners, loggers, and mills alike. It brings stability to our supply chain and creates new opportunities for working families across Central Louisiana.”

The Louisiana Forestry Association echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the economic ripple effects the project is expected to generate.

“Forestry is an important part of Central Louisiana. Beaver Lake is exactly the kind of investment that helps rural economies thrive,” said Buck Vandersteen, Executive Director of the Louisiana Forestry Association. “From landowners, loggers and truckers to equipment dealers and service providers, this project benefits every link in the forestry value chain. It keeps our forests working, our people employed, and our communities growing.”

Over the past six months, Beaver Lake has been active in hosting small-group briefings, community meetings, and discussions with civic organizations. Local businesses have also begun early engagement with the company, preparing for supplier and vendor opportunities as construction nears.

Beaver Lake leaders say that transparency and community access will remain core principles throughout construction and long-term operations.

“We are committed to being good neighbors and open partners,” said Dan LeFevers, Vice President of External Affairs at Beaver Lake Renewable Energy. “Our team has spent months in conversations with residents, businesses, and civic groups, and we’ll continue offering those meetings to anyone who wants to learn more about the project or ask questions directly.”

A vendor fair is planned for 2026, giving Central Louisiana businesses the opportunity to participate in both the construction and operational phases of the facility. Beaver Lake has repeatedly expressed its intent to prioritize local companies whenever possible.

The Beaver Lake project positions Central Louisiana for sustained growth beyond the direct jobs created at the facility, the project is expected to spur new business investment, strengthen the forestry supply chain, and generate long-term economic activity across Rapides Parish and surrounding areas.

With construction approaching and local support continuing to grow, Beaver Lake Renewable Energy is on track to become a major driver of economic opportunity, industrial innovation, and community partnership in Central Louisiana.

The Alexandria Lions Club hosted representatives from Boudreaux’s Animal Rescue Krewe during its December 3 meeting, welcoming guest speakers Jillian Donaghey and Eva Long for a discussion on their work rescuing animals across the region.

Donaghey and Long highlighted the growing challenge of pet overpopulation and emphasized the importance of spaying and neutering as a key step in reducing the strain on local shelters and rescue groups.

During the meeting, the Lions Club presented BARK with an $800 donation to assist the nonprofit in continuing its rescue and outreach efforts. In addition to the presentation, BARK delivered two bags of linens to support the club’s ongoing initiative to provide supplies for the Pineville Animal Shelter.

The organization’s partnership reflects a shared commitment to community service and the welfare of animals in Central Louisiana.

Louisiana Christian University Department of Psychology hosted the Great Minds Forum: A Celebration of Student Research on Wednesday at the Granberry Conference Center. This annual event highlights the scholarly accomplishments of psychology majors as they present original research addressing diverse issues in psychological science, mental health and applied practice.

“All eleven of our students demonstrated exceptional skill in both their research and presentations,” said Dr. Mollie Wise, assistant professor of psychology. “They represented the LCU Psychology Department with excellence and professionalism. It has been a privilege to work alongside these students throughout their research process.”

Undergraduate researchers delivered 15–20 minute presentations followed by faculty-led Q&A, demonstrating strong critical thinking, methodological skill, and academic professionalism. Topics ranged from sport psychology and adolescent development to digital media, counseling approaches, and the impact of professorial support on student mental health.

The 2025 research award recipients were as follows:

1st Place — Harrison Waxley, a senior from Bossier City
Certificate of Distinguished Excellence in Psychological Research

Awarded for exceptional methodological rigor, originality, and meaningful contribution to the discipline.
2nd Place — Morgan Mills, a senior from Opelousas
Certificate of Merit in Psychological Research

Recognized for strong scientific practice, thoughtful inquiry, and commendable research design.
3rd Place — Cassidy Spears, a senior from Franklinton
Certificate of Achievement in Psychological Research

Honored for noteworthy research efforts, sound methodology, and dedication to advancing psychological understanding.

The Pineville Police Department is asking residents to assist in an active investigation following reports of vehicle burglaries in the Deer Trace area early Thursday morning, Dec. 4.

Residents with home surveillance systems are encouraged to review their footage for any suspicious activity. Video clips or information can be submitted through Facebook Messenger or emailed to jswanson@pineville.net.

Police say community-submitted footage could play a critical role in identifying those responsible and preventing additional incidents. The department thanked the public for its support in helping maintain safety throughout Pineville.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Dec. 7

Moody D. Clark, 41, Alexandria – simple assault, possession of drug paraphernalia, resisting an officer, remaining premises, $2,000 bail;

Douglas Domino, 19, Alexandria – second degree murder, $1,000,000 bail;

Brandi Lynn Rutter, 53, Alexandria – OWI first offense, obstructing public passages, improper parking, $1,600 bail.

Dec. 6

Alyssa Cagle, 19, Monroe – possession of CDS, paraphernalia, marijuana, $2,500 bail;

Ethan Dubreull, 17, Alexandria – possession of handgun by juvenile, resisting an officer, $500 bail;

Michael John Durison Jr., 38, Pineville – theft of a motor vehicle, no bail data;

Henry Fisher, 72, Lecompte – OWI, open container, no signals, $1,800 bail;

Marcus Dylan Huff, 34, Deville – OWI second offense, modified exhaust, driver’s license not in possession, $1,700 bail;

Joshua William Jones, 40, Alexandria – improper bicycle operation, resisting an officer, all other stop/yield sign, six counts contempt of court, $14,705 bail;

Krystal Lamkin, 30, Pineville – theft of a motor vehicle, no bail data;

Micah Loran Meche Jr., 24, Pineville – OWI third offense, no MVI sticker, driver’s license not in possession, possession of marijuana, contempt of court, $700 bail;

Christopher James Tanner, 19, Alexandria – legend drug possession, possession marijuana, concealed negligent carry handgun, $1,500 bail.

Dec. 5                           

Nydreck De’sean Burns, 26, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, illegal carry firearms with guns, use of CDS in presence of minors, no child restraint system, driving under suspension, illegal use of weapons, two counts second degree battery, $55,700 bail;

Fredi A. Caballero, 29, Forest Hill – domestic abuse battery strangulation, no bail data;

Jessica Lynn Carter, 40, Pineville – theft, criminal damage to property, Louisiana fugitive, failure to appear, $1,500 bail;

Austin Auzlle Maxwell, 27, Dry Prong – two counts violation of protective orders, criminal trespass, open container state law, stalking, home invasion, two counts contempt of court, $150,600 bail;

Elisha Chenyenne Mazerolle, 28, Pineville – first degree murder, second degree cruelty to juveniles, $200,000 bail;

Robert Sparks, 49, Bowie, Maryland – OWI second offense, careless operation of a vehicle, open container state law, $1,700 bail.

Dec. 4

James Clifford Brooks, 29, Alexandria – simple battery on the infirmed, $500 bail;

Karen Gauthier, 63, Pineville – OWI first offense, child desertion, $1,500 bail.

Olevia Derelene Nichols Carr, age 86, of Hineston, passed away peacefully on December 4, 2025. She was born on January 23, 1939, to the late Durwood Nichols and Carrie Olevia Merchant in the Hammock Community.

Visitation will be held. at the Hineston Tabernacle on Monday, December 8, 2025, from 5:00-8:00 p.m and on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 10:00 a.m. until the time of service at the same location.

Funeral services will be conducted at 2:00 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, in the sanctuary of the Hineston Tabernacle with burial following in the Mount Moriah Cemetery.Serving as pallbearers will be Ryan Carr, Brock Dunn, Kyle Dunn, Travis Howell, Tanner Lewis and Joe Richey. Honorary pallbearers will be Joshua Dunn and Justin MeDaniel.

Throughout her life, Olevia worked in several professions, including accounting, adoption services, Dresser Industries, and as a dedicated school bus driver. No matter where she worked, her strong work ethic and genuine care for others left a lasting impression on those around her.

Olevia was deeply family oriented and found her greatest joy in the company of her loved ones. She was known for her warm hospitality, her door was always open, and she loved welcoming friends and family into her home. Her kitchen was often filled with the comforting aromas of her cooking, and her hands were rarely still, always tending to her flowers or working on her beautiful quilts. She also enjoyed traveling and cherished the memories made of her many adventures.

In addition to her parents, she is preceded in death by her husband, Billy Wayne Carr, and her brother, Rodney Cupples.

Those left to cherish her memory include her daughter, Marguerite (Rodney) Poe; her “bonus” son, Ryan (Brittany) Carr; grandchildren Olevia Nicole (Justin McDaniel) McNeely-Lewis, Jacquelyn Rae (Joshua) McNeely-Dunn, Katherine Elizabeth McNeely; and Kayce Carr. Great-grandchildren Tanner Lewis, Hannah Lewis, Lainey Howell, Brock Dunn, Kyle Dunn, Terik McDaniel, and Tanner McDaniel.

Olevia’s life was a reflection of faith, love, and generosity. Her presence will be dearly missed, but her kindness and spirit will live on in all who knew and loved her.

Funeral services for Miss Melissa Ann Jenkins will be held at 2 p.m. on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, with Reverend Dexter Goynes officiating. Interment will follow in Flatwoods Cemetery, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Melissa, 45, of Lena, entered eternal rest on Thursday, December 4, 2025.

She was a loving daughter and granddaughter. She enjoyed spending time on her computer and her phone. She adored cats, especially the love of her life, Memow. She was a kind, caring soul, and a friend for life. She will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved her.

She was preceded in death by her father, Ted Ivan Jenkins; her mother, Deborah Sue Mooney; and one sister, Patricia Ann Mooney.

Those left to mourn her loss and cherish her memory include her grandmother, Julia Ann Gauthier (Frank) of Lena; numerous aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews; and a host of friends.

A time of visitation will be held at Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Monday, December 8, 2025, from 5-8 p.m. Visitation will resume in the Chapel of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville, on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, at 10 a.m. until time of service.

Acting United States Attorney Michael M. Simpson announced that Corey Johnson, 35, of Alexandria, was indicted on Nov. 20 for willfully conveying a bomb threat, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 844(e).

According to court documents, Johnson was arrested at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport on Nov. 7 after making bomb threats to airport operations following a dispute over unpaid parking fees. JOHNSON called AVCOM twice to announce the presence of a bomb in the airport. Additionally, he threatened to harm the AVCOM operator. This action prompted an investigation by the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation that identified JOHNSON as the caller from the earlier parking lot incident.

If convicted, JOHNSON faces a maximum penalty of up to ten years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

Acting U.S. Attorney Simpson praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Saint Charles Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

By JIM BUTLER

An indication of problems encountered in the latest Boyce audit is it is for the year ending May 31, 2023.

Rozier, McKay & Willis reports being unable to obtain sufficient appropriate data to provide a basis for an audit opinion.

And the auditors as well as the town raise the possibility of it being no longer able to operate relatively soon.

The upside: since those September 5 conclusions, posted this week, the town has authorized start of the process to build a new town hall and is applying for funding to upgrade its water system.

Current town officials took office after Fall 2022 elections, about three-quarters of the way through the fiscal year just audited.

Responding to auditors’ litany of adverse remarks they note internal changes made since or under way as a result of the findings.

All concerned acknowledge the elephant in the room — about $1.13 million the state Municipal Police Employees Retirement System claims it is owed by the town.

MPERS is also pursuing additional claims associated with the February 2024 of the layoff of all police other than the elected chief.

(The retirement system is not new to pursuing cities, towns and villages for alleged contribution improprieties.)

The town contracted with the Sheriff’s Office to provide law enforcement following the layoffs.

According to the audit report, town officials have serious doubts about the town’s ability to operate should MPERS prevail in court, as do the auditors. 

But life goes on – the town will apply this month for a Community Development Block Grant of $2 million for water system improvements. Public comment is being received through December 13.

(The audit report shows the water system with $167,000 revenue and $288,000 expenses in themJune 1, 2022-May 31, 2023 fiscal year.)

Pan American Engineers recently received the go-ahead to seek a 75/25 grant for a new town hall.

The audit indicates total town revenue was $3.5 million in the 12 months reviewed and expenses were $3.8 million.

Pineville High School honored a local legend. The basketball court was officially dedicated to Coach Bobby Rucker, whose 22 years of leadership and mentorship from 1966 to 1988 shaped countless student-athletes.

The amazing turnout of alumni, community members, and supporters was a testament to Coach Rucker’s impact. For generations of players, he was more than a coach—he was a mentor, a role model, and a steady presence who believed in their potential both on and off the court.

Coach Rucker’s dedication to high school basketball in Central Louisiana continues to inspire, and this dedication ensures that his legacy will be remembered!

Pineville High School students took part in Rapides Parish EMS Day on Tuesday, joining a hands-on learning event designed to connect education with emergency response agencies.

The practical, cross-agency program offered students the opportunity to engage directly with Emergency Response Professionals through a series of real-world activities. Students practiced trauma scenarios with Rapides Hospital, competed in CPR races with St. Francis Cabrini Hospital, and participated in turnout gear drills led by the Alpine Fire Department. They also spent time exploring a Blackhawk helicopter and interacting with representatives from Pafford and Acadian Ambulance.

School officials said the event helped build critical skills, teamwork, and awareness of career pathways in emergency services. Pineville High thanked its community partners for providing students with meaningful and impactful learning experiences.

The Beaver Lake Renewable Energy project in Pineville is emerging as one of the most significant industrial investments in Central Louisiana in decades.

Positioned on the former International Paper mill site on Williams Lake Road, the project is set to transform an idle industrial footprint into a next-generation wood-to-methanol production facility, backed by $2.5 billion in private capital and extensive local support.

Announced publicly in 2023, the Beaver Lake project has steadily advanced through engineering, permitting, community engagement, and supply-chain planning. According to Louisiana Economic Development (LED), the facility is projected to generate more than 650 high-wage direct and indirect jobs paying approximately 60 percent above the regional average, along with more than 1,100 construction jobs at peak activity. The plant is expected to begin construction next year.

Once online, the facility will convert roughly 2.5 million tons of sustainable wood fiber annually into more than 530,000 tons of low-carbon methanol. That product will travel by barge down the Red River to Gulf Coast ports, where it will enter markets with strong demand for cleaner fuels. To meet customer requirements, the project will capture and transport approximately half of its CO₂ emissions to a licensed sequestration site more than 50 miles away.

Local business leaders and forestry industry executives have expressed strong support for what the project means for the region’s timber economy.

“This project represents a major long-term commitment to Louisiana’s forestry sector,” said Scott Poole, President and COO of Roy O. Martin. “A facility of this scale strengthens markets for landowners, loggers, and mills alike. It brings stability to our supply chain and creates new opportunities for working families across Central Louisiana.”

The Louisiana Forestry Association echoed that sentiment, emphasizing the economic ripple effects the project is expected to generate.

“Forestry is an important part of Central Louisiana. Beaver Lake is exactly the kind of investment that helps rural economies thrive,” said Buck Vandersteen, Executive Director of the Louisiana Forestry Association. “From landowners, loggers and truckers to equipment dealers and service providers, this project benefits every link in the forestry value chain. It keeps our forests working, our people employed, and our communities growing.”

Over the past six months, Beaver Lake has been active in hosting small-group briefings, community meetings, and discussions with civic organizations. Local businesses have also begun early engagement with the company, preparing for supplier and vendor opportunities as construction nears.

Beaver Lake leaders say that transparency and community access will remain core principles throughout construction and long-term operations.

“We are committed to being good neighbors and open partners,” said Dan LeFevers, Vice President of External Affairs at Beaver Lake Renewable Energy. “Our team has spent months in conversations with residents, businesses, and civic groups, and we’ll continue offering those meetings to anyone who wants to learn more about the project or ask questions directly.”

A vendor fair is planned for 2026, giving Central Louisiana businesses the opportunity to participate in both the construction and operational phases of the facility. Beaver Lake has repeatedly expressed its intent to prioritize local companies whenever possible.

The Beaver Lake project positions Central Louisiana for sustained growth beyond the direct jobs created at the facility, the project is expected to spur new business investment, strengthen the forestry supply chain, and generate long-term economic activity across Rapides Parish and surrounding areas.

With construction approaching and local support continuing to grow, Beaver Lake Renewable Energy is on track to become a major driver of economic opportunity, industrial innovation, and community partnership in Central Louisiana.

The Pineville Police Department announced that beginning Jan. 1, 2026, officers will be authorized to issue citations for violations of Revised Statute 32:59, the state law governing distracted driving and the use of wireless devices while operating a vehicle.

The department encouraged residents to review the full statute to understand the restrictions and requirements related to mobile device use behind the wheel. Officials emphasized the importance of putting phones down, paying attention to the road, and practicing safe driving habits to reduce preventable accidents.

The updated enforcement marks a continued effort by Pineville Police to promote roadway safety and responsible driving.

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

Dec. 4

Walter Austin Crooks, 29, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery, two counts contempt of court, $55,500 bail;

Takeitha Amira James, 28, Cottonport – three counts contempt of court, $30,000 bail;

Teea Breanne Swasey, 39, Alexandria – contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Brandon Thomas, 21, Pineville – OWI first offense, driving under suspension, no MVI sticker, possession of drug paraphernalia, $1,700 bail;

Derrick Wayne Thompson, 49, Alexandria – seven counts contempt of court, $101,500 bail.

Dec. 3

Landon Gage Ackel, 34, Alexandria – second degree aggravated battery, careless operation of a vehicle, no driver’s license, possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, parole violations, use of CDS in presence of minor, unsafe vehicle, obstruction of driver’s view, safety belt violation, hit and run, $10,000 bail;

Rickey Beauregard, 19, Alexandria – illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, no bail data;

Quashawn Terell Brooks, 28, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery strangulation, $20,000 bail;

John Fred Difulco, 61, Pineville – OWI third offense, no signals, open container, $75,200 bail;

Calvin Wayne Giddings, 56, Deville – first degree rape, $1 million bail;

Antonio Dewayne Lee, 25, Alexandria – illegal use of weapons/dangerous instrumentalities, $5,000 bail;

Demetrius Martez Jackson, 37, Alexandria – three counts possession of CDS, paraphernalia, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, theft, obstruction of justice, contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Rashad O’Neal Jenkins, 32, Alexandria – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal possession of a stolen firearm, Louisiana fugitive, $47,500 bail;

Kelvon Gerald Kyle, 25, Cottonport – flight from an officer, disarming a peace officer, criminal damage to property, two counts contempt of court, $100,500 bail;

Michael Wayne Smith Jr., 26, Pineville – illegal use of weapons, dangerous instrumentalities, $100,000 bail;

Patrick Bruce Thompson Sr., 66, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS with intent, possession of drug paraphernalia, $500 bail;

Barbara Ann Wade, 75, Deville – attempted murder of law officer, accessory after the fact, $1 million bail;

Fredrick Eugene Warren, 29, Lecompte – resisting an officer, unauthorized entry of inhabited dwelling, reckless operation of a vehicle, turn signals required, flight from an officer, no driver’s license, resisting an officer, Louisiana fugitive, two counts contempt of court, $127,100 bail;

Dec. 2

Darrell Stewart Age, 66, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, soliciting, $1,500 bail;

Brady Lee Bordelon, 46, Pineville – four counts possession of CDS, two counts contempt of court, three counts theft of a firearm, theft, $57,000 bail;

Jamison D. Boyd, 42, Alexandria – possession of firearm by convicted felon, violation of protective orders, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, resisting an officer, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of marijuana, $8,000 bail;

Martha Monae Davis, 35, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $10,000 bail;

Raydrian Jaquan Fisher, 19, Alexandria – attempted second degree murder, firearm-free zone, second degree battery, contempt of court, $177,000 bail;

Stephen DeMarco Fitzgerald, 51, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, soliciting, $1,500 bail;

William Clayton Folse, 30, Pineville – theft of a motor vehicle, theft, $20,500 bail;

Michael Carroll Guillory, 43, Pineville – simple burglary, $10,000 bail;

Demoreo Nifine Hall, 38, Alexandria – 14 counts of theft, Louisiana fugitive, two counts disturbing the peace, two counts criminal damage to property, two counts criminal conspiracy, battery of a dating partner, illegal possession of stolen things, three counts contempt of court, two counts contributing to the delinquency of juveniles, $73,000 bail;

Terrance Tyrell Hamilton, 36, Pineville – aggravated burglary, aggravated assault with a firearm, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $150,000 bail;

Terrance Erickson, 40, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, paraphernalia, soliciting, $1,500 bail;

Donald Ray Jones, 53, Colfax – nine counts contempt of court, parole violations, $81,500 bail;

Horace Roberson, 60, Shreveport – OWI second offense, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, resisting an officer, $2,500 bail;

Charles Wayne Tharp, 46, Pineville – operating a vehicle while under suspension for certain prior offenses, reckless operation of a vehicle, flight from an officer, speeding, $1,600 bail;

Joseph Thomas, 47, Lafayette – Louisiana fugitive, no bail data;

Christi Michelle Wells-Marler, 44, New Iberia – simple burglary, $1,000 bail;

Kameron Zuriel Williams, 25, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia, two counts possession of weapon by convicted felon, parole violations, $36,000 bail.

Dec. 1

Ashley Nicole Cannon, 43, Alexandria – criminal damage to property, $1,000 bail;

Daequan Jemarcuse Holmes, 30, 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, $63,500 bail;

Jackie Ray Johnson Jr., 25, Alexandria – possession of marijuana, resisting an officer, tail lights, Louisiana fugitive, $1,600 bail;

Nicholas Lofton, 24, Alexandria – criminal trespass, disturbing the peace, resisting an officer, $1,500 bail;

Timarian Dewayne Logan, 23, Pineville – producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, illegal possession of stolen firearms, eight counts illegal carry firearm with drugs, paraphernalia, resisting an officer, $151,000 bail;

Lacey Danae Meaux, 42, Pineville – possession of fentanyl, paraphernalia, obstruction of justice, switched license plate, no insurance, $6,100 bail;

Eric Matthew Meginley II, 26, Alexandria – domestic abuse aggravated assault with child endangerment, cruelty to juveniles, $20,000 bail;

Jamar Phillips, 22, Montgomery – second degree battery, $25,000 bail;

Calesha Lashun Smith, 25, Alexandria – resisting an officer, obstruction of justice, four counts contempt of court, $15,000 bail;

Nathaniel Kevin Smith, 34, Deville – simple burglary, two counts contempt of court, $61,000 bail;

Jeremie Lee Suire, 41, Pineville – speeding, driving under suspension, failure to appear, $700 bail;

Kaely Nachelle Toney, 26, Alexandria – burglary of inhabited dwelling, $2,000 bail.

Nov. 30

Riggous Rashard Allcutt, 41, Alexandria – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Patricia Dianne Barrow, 54, Pineville – theft, legend drug possession, $1,000 bail;

Ethan Issac Croft, 23, Delhi – OWI first offense, improper backing, $1,100 bail;

Chad Leon Goleman, 38, Hineston – Louisiana fugitive, three counts contempt of court, $103,000 bail;

Brenden Hebert, 20, Pineville – simple burglary, $5,000 bail;

James Jeromy Keene, 56, Alexandria – simple burglary, $5,000 bail;

Jamar Mullins, 18, Pineville – two counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, criminal conspiracy, obstruction of justice, aggravated criminal damage, two counts aggravated assault with a firearm, $117,000 bail;

Colby Daniel Vance II, 34, Ball – simple burglary, OWI first offense, open container, switched license plate, driving under suspension/revocation, eight counts contempt of court, $62,800 bail.

Private Graveside Services were held for Mr. Matthew Paul Miller on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at Butterfield Cemetery, Dry Prong, with Reverends Will Butterfield and Steve Hutchinson officiating, under the direction of Rush Funeral Home, Pineville.

Mr. Miller, 35, of Sulphur, entered eternal rest on Friday, November 28, 2025, at West Calcasieu Cameron Hospital, Sulphur, LA.

He was a loving son and the light of his family’s life. He enjoyed music and the guitar, and he was always such a joy to meet. He had an amazing smile that brightened any room and a giggle that touched your heart. He will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.

He was preceded in death by his grandparents, David and Betty Miller.

Those left to mourn his loss and cherish his memory include his loving mother, Angela Hutchinson (Steve) of Many; one brother, Austin Ramey (Stephanie) of Dupo, Illinois; his grandmother, Liz Miller of Alexandria; and the John and Tina Butterfield Family.

Joseph Calvert LaCaze, Jr., affectionately known as Jay, passed away peacefully on Wednesday, December 3, 2025, at the age of 72, leaving behind a legacy of hard work, adventure, and unshakeable kindness. Born with a natural curiosity and a gift for working with his hands, he built a life defined by service, craftsmanship, and a deep love for the people and world around him.

Visitation for Jay will be held at Gallagher Funeral Home in Ball, Louisiana on Tuesday, December 9, 2025, from 9:00-10:00 am. A memorial service will take place at 10:00 am at the funeral home with Dr. Steve Speer officiating.

A true outdoorsman at heart, he found joy in the quiet crackle of a campfire, the thrill of water skiing across a glassy lake, and the simple peace of being surrounded by nature. These passions shaped some of his happiest memories and were often shared with family and friends.

His talents extended far beyond the wilderness. A licensed aircraft mechanic, he spent his career mastering the complexities of helicopters and aviation technology. His expertise carried him around the world, where he worked on helicopters in distant cities, remote work sites, and places most people only dream of seeing. He later founded Helicopter Work Aids, a company born from his ingenuity and commitment to helping others in his profession. His contributions to the field and his willingness to teach, guide, and support others made him widely respected within the aviation community.

His competitive spirit shone just as brightly-he was proud to be a Louisiana State Champion in Cowboy Fast Draw, a title earned through skill, focus, and a love of sport’s camaraderie.

At home, he was known as the person who could fix anything. Generous with his time and talents, he became a trusted neighbor and friend, always ready with a tool in hand and a smile on his face. His mechanical ability was remarkable, but it was his kindness and eagerness to help that made him beloved in the community. Of all his accomplishments, none meant more to him than his family. He was a devoted husband, a proud father and grandfather, a supportive uncle, and a loyal friend. His love was steady, his advice thoughtful, and his presence a source of comfort and strength. He leaves behind countless memories of laughter, mentorship, and unwavering affection.

He is survived by his loving wife of almost 42 years, Neuly LaCaze; sons, Joseph LaCaze, III (Kathryn) and Allan LaCaze (Tainna); grandchildren, Vivian LaCaze, Jospeh “J.J.” LaCaze, IV, Louise LaCaze, and Liz LaCaze; brothers, Paul LaCaze (Janet) and Greg LaCaze (Lorrie); nieces and nephews, Julia LaCaze, John LaCaze, James LaCaze, Jamie Phillips (Dakota)and Caol Gomes (Douglas); great nieces, Claire Phillips and Isabella Gomes; and a host of extended family and friends who will forever cherish the lessons he taught, the adventures he shared, and the love he gave so freely.

He is preceded in death by his parents, Joseph “J.C.” LaCaze, Sr. and Frances LaCaze.

His life was one of purpose, craftsmanship, and heart. He will be deeply missed and fondly remembered by all who were fortunate enough to know him.

To send flowers to the family or plant a tree in memory of Joseph “Jay”, please visit our floral store.

Phonetic: /kənˈfɪskətəri/
Part of Speech: adjective

Definition

Government action: A confiscatory power is the state’s ability to seize property, such as assets obtained through a crime or property used to further a criminal enterprise.