Five parish softball teams home today in LHSAA playoffs

The traditional strength of Rapides Parish high school softball is on display today when five teams host regional round playoff games.

The highest-seeded local, No. 2 Pineville, got things started Monday evening with a run-rule victory over Captain Shreve.

ASH, Buckeye, Menard, Plainview and Tioga host playoff games this afternoon.

Monday’s score 

Select Division I

Pineville 13, Captain Shreve 3 (5 innings)

Today’s games

Select Division I

No. 9 Teurlings Catholic at No. 8 ASH, 5:30

No. 10 Acadiana at No. 7 Tioga, 5:30 (Ward 10 Complex)

Select Division II 

No. 11 Loranger at No. 6 Buckeye, 5:00

Select Division IV 

No. 10 Ouachita Christian at No. 7 Menard, 5:30

Class B

No. 16 Grace Christian at No. 1 Stanley, 6:00

No. 14 Oak Hill at No. 3 Hicks, 5:30

Class C

No. 10 Evans at No. 7 Plainview, 5:00


Body of missing boater recovered from Red River

Photo: File Photo

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries are investigating a fatal boating incident that took place in Rapides Parish on April 18.

The body of Gregory S. Kile, 45, of Deville, was recovered from the Red River around 8 a.m. on April 20. His body was turned over to the Rapides Parish Coroner’s Office to determine an official cause of death.

LDWF agents received information about a missing boater in the Red River near Pineville around 11:30 p.m. on April 18 and immediately began searching. The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, Pineville Fire Department, the Alexandria Fire Department, and the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office also assisted in the search.

Agents learned from the survivors that three boaters departed the Buhlow Recreational Landing on the Red River around 9 p.m. on April 18. Shortly after launching, the vessel struck a rock jetty, which caused the vessel to capsize and sink forcing the three occupants into the water. Two of the boaters were able to swim to safety and call for help.

The LDWF Enforcement Division will be the lead investigative agency for this fatal boating incident. The three boaters were not wearing personal flotation devices at the time of the incident.


Sheriff warns of impersonation scam targeting parish residents

Authorities urge public to ignore messages claiming to be Sheriff Mark Wood

By Journal Staff

The Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving someone impersonating Sheriff Mark Wood through text messages.

According to a statement posted on the sheriff’s official Facebook page, an individual is reportedly using a prepaid phone to contact residents while posing as Wood. The messages claim the sender has lost their phone and ask recipients to save a new number.

Authorities said the messages are fraudulent and advised residents not to respond or share personal information.

The Sheriff’s Office said it is investigating the incident.

Residents are encouraged to share the warning, particularly with older adults who are often targeted in scams.

What to know

  • Law enforcement will not request information through unsolicited text messages
  • Messages asking recipients to save a “new number” should be treated as suspicious
  • Do not respond or provide personal information
  • Report suspicious activity to local law enforcement

An impersonation scam is circulating in the parish, and residents are urged to remain cautious, avoid engaging with suspicious messages and help raise awareness.

Sources: Sheriff Mark Wood official Facebook page


Buhlow Boat Ramp reopens following search and recovery operation

The Red River Waterway Commission announced the Buhlow Boat Ramp on the Red River is reopened as of Tuesday, April 21, 2026, at 8 a.m.

The ramp had been temporarily closed to the public during a recent search and recovery operation in the area.

Officials expressed appreciation to Red River Waterway personnel for their assistance throughout the operation.


LCU receives grant from The Rapides Foundation

Louisiana Christian University has been awarded a grant from The Rapides Foundation for $25,700 for the Beyond Graduation Program, a project designed to close the gap between high school seniors who graduate and apply to postsecondary institutions and those who enroll and complete a postsecondary certificate or degree.

Beyond Graduation is a partnership between Career Compass of Louisiana, school districts in nine central Louisiana parishes, and six post-secondary institutions.  Beyond Graduation is funded by a grant from The Rapides Foundation.

“The Rapides Foundation welcomes Louisiana Christian University as a partner with the Beyond Graduation Project. This expansion is vital in giving more students in Central Louisiana the opportunity and support they need to succeed from enrollment through completion,” said Ashley Stewart, director of programs for the Foundation. 

Beyond Graduation college and career coaches assist high school students with college/university admissions, financial aid, and other enrollment services during high school. The Beyond Graduation staff at participating postsecondary institutions provide ongoing services to participants during the summer months before college/university enrollment and during their college tenure to ensure that they progress toward a certificate or degree completion.

“We are so excited to have Louisiana Christian University join the Beyond Graduation Program,” said Dr. Chris Maggio, Beyond Graduation project manager. “With the addition of LCU, central Louisiana students now have six post-secondary institutions with dedicated Beyond Graduation college coaches to provide ongoing services to students. Louisiana Christian University provides quality academic options for students, and its caring faculty and staff make LCU a perfect choice for many central Louisiana students.”

To be eligible for the program at LCU, students must be from one of the following parishes: 

Allen, Avoyelles, Catahoula, Grant, LaSalle, Natchitoches, Rapides, Vernon, and Winn. Students must also meet one of the following criteria: be first-generation college students, have economic hardship, have a qualifying academic record and related factors, or have a referral from an administrator, teacher, counselor, or Career Compass coach. 

“When I first heard about this opportunity last year, I was new in my role as president and needed time to fully understand our university and our direction,” said LCU President Dr. Mark Johnson. “Over the past year, that clarity has come. Now, I’m excited to partner with The Rapides Foundation and Career Compass of Louisiana, who care deeply about students and their success. The Beyond Graduation Program aligns with our mission and helps ensure students not only enroll but thrive and complete their journey. We’re grateful to be part of this important work.”

For more information about the services available through this program at LCU, contact Beyond Graduation coach Emily Couvillion at emily.couvillion@lcuniversity.edu. 

Career Compass is a nonprofit organization whose purpose is to ensure that all high school students have a pathway to college and a rewarding career. 

The Rapides Foundation is an organization whose vision is to positively impact Central Louisiana by deploying resources to improve key factors of health status. 


Remember This: Easy Money

Troyal wanted to be a professional athlete.  “The only thing that stopped me,” Troyal said, “was my professional athletic ability.”  At Yukon High School, Troyal played football, baseball, and ran track and field.  He was especially talented at the javelin throw.  When he graduated in 1980, he attended Oklahoma State University in Stillwater on a track and field scholarship.  Troyal knew he wanted to play sports in college, but he was unsure what to study.  Troyal finally decided to study advertising.  As a child, his parents and siblings held casual weekly talent nights.  Everyone had to participate.  Because of this, Troyal learned to play banjo and guitar.  Troyal used his talent to write jingles and commercials for his advertising classes.  

In 1984, Troyal walked across the stage at Oklahoma State University and received his diploma.  Shortly after he graduated with his degree in advertising, he learned that he had not completed the requirements for his degree.  He was one college hour short.  The clerical error was discovered after he walked.  Troyal had no choice but to take another class, but his student loan and scholarship money ended the moment he walked across that stage.  Troyal was from a large family who could not afford to pay his tuition for the single class, so he had to work to pay for the class.        

All through college, Troyal worked odd jobs including roofing houses and working as a bouncer at a nightclub.  One night while working to pay for the remaining class, Troyal asked Dolly, an employee at Willie’s Saloon in Stillwater, Oklahoma, to allow him to play his guitar and sing for the audience.  Dolly agreed.  The first night went so well that she asked him to play the following night.  The crowds grew and drink sales increased, so Dolly kept Troyal on stage.  What could have been just a one-off thing turned into a five-night a week job.  One day, Troyal said to himself, “Hey, maybe this is what you’re supposed to be doing.”     

Troyal had hoped to become a professional athlete, but he sang instead.  One of the songs he sang had the line “Sometimes I thank God for unanswered prayers.”  If his prayers to become an athlete had been answered, you might know Troyal in a whole different way.  You know Troyal.  His full name is Troyal Garth Brooks.

Source:

1.     “Garth Brooks appears on ‘Late Show’ with Stephen Colbert, discusses time at OSU,” 2 News Oklahoma, November 30, 2018, accessed April 12, 2026, https://www.kjrh.com/news/local-news/garth-brooks-appears-on-late-show-with-stephen-colbert-discusses-time-at-osu.


Remembering Shelton Don “Pookie” Reed

Shelton Don “Pookie” Reed, 82, of Deville, LA, passed away peacefully on April 18, 2026. Born on May 23, 1943, Shelton was a dedicated husband, father, grandfather, great-grandfather, brother, community member, and servant of the Lord.

Funeral services will be held at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, April 23, 2026, at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville, with Brother Willie Welch officiating. Burial will follow in Big Island Baptist Church Cemetery, Deville.

Visitation will be held at Hixson Brothers Funeral Home, Pineville, on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, from 5:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

Pallbearers honored to serve will be Robert Reed, David Reed, Garrett Hoffpauir, Kameron Hoffpauir, Shelton Ray Reed, and Kenny Smith. Honorary pallbearers will be Dexter Coco, Albert Rayner, Hayden Paul, Philip Anderson, Gavin Hoffpauir, and Hunter Rollins.

Shelton lived his life with unwavering faith and devotion. He was a well-respected member of the Deville Community all his life. His contributions to the community were significant; a member of the El Karubah Shrine Club, he served as past president of the Cenla Shrine Club and was a past master and an active member of the W.D. Fisher Masonic Lodge 480 and past master of Solomon Lodge 221. Shelton took immense pride in his participation in the Shriners organization, always finding joy in helping children through his charitable work.

Shelton loved his community and poured his heart into everything he did, especially when it came to supporting children. He believed in making a difference, and his legacy will continue through the lives he touched.

Those left to cherish his memory include sons, Robert Reed (Loretta) and David “Tater” Reed (Robyn); daughters, Angela Issman (Matt) and Kimberly Hoffpauir (Garrett); 10 grandchildren; 11 great-grandchildren; brothers, Lloyd Reed and Matt Reed, Jr.; sisters, Vernell McCarty and Neva Nell Belgard, and a host of extended family and friends.

He was preceded in death by his parents, Matt Edward Reed and Nula Lucas Reed; wife of 57 years, Joyce Rae Smith Reed; brothers, Clyde Reed, Carlton Reed, Ezra Reed, D.H. Reed, and sisters, Evie Beaubouef, Ethel Sims, Edna Beaubouef, and Ellen Reed.

In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations be made to Shriners Children’s Hospital, 2900 Rocky Point Drive, Tampa, Florida 33607, or online at http://www.shrinerschildren.org, and St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, Tennessee 38105, or online at http://www.stjude.org, a cause close to his heart.

He brought warmth, laughter, and kindness wherever he went, and his spirit will live on in the hearts of all who knew him.


Remembering James Edwin “Big Dog” Frazier I

James Edwin Frazier I, affectionately known as “Turkey Frazier,” peacefully departed this life on April 11, 2026, at home, surrounded by his loving family.

Born November 3, 1954, in Louisiana, James was a man of love, service, and joy. He was the beloved son of the late Agelice and Arthur Frazier and was preceded in death by his brother, John Davis, and grandmother, Mahalia Davis.

In 1975, he married the love of his life, Sharon Frazier. Together, they built a life rooted in love and faith and raised two children, Kayla Frazier and James Frazier II. He was a proud grandfather to Aysha Robertson, Alexus Robertson, Aliyah Robertson, and Alayah Robertson, and great-grandfather to Taylon French and Kalu Chukwudoro, who added joy to his days and warmth to his heart.

James was a proud graduate of Bolton High School, Class of 1973. He went on to serve honorably in the United States Air Force, reflecting his strong commitment to service, before beginning a fulfilling career. He later studied small motor electronics at Alexandria Trade School and worked at Glick Textiles in Houston. He also impacted many young lives while working at the Boys and Girls Club of Central Louisiana and the Renaissance Home for Youth. His career culminated at the Rapides Parish Police Department, where he ascended to the rank of lieutenant, retiring with the respect and admiration of his peers.

James was baptized early in life and enjoyed the simple things: fishing, nature drives, and keeping his yard in top shape. Known as the “king of cooking,” his barbecue and fried fish brought people together. He loved games, music, and watching TV, especially Dallas Cowboys football, basketball, car shows, nature programs, and his hats. He also cherished time spent sharing word searches and puzzles with his son.

James carried himself with strength and a sharp sense of humor. His confident, outgoing nature and ability to make others laugh earned him the nickname “Big Dog,” a reflection of the respect and love he received. He had a steady, comforting presence, a laugh that filled the room, and an unwavering devotion to his family. Deeply loved and respected, his presence will be deeply missed.

He leaves behind a legacy of love and laughter, survived by his wife, Sharon; children, Kayla and James II; grandchildren, Aysha Robertson, Alexus Robertson, Aliyah Robertson, and Alayah Robertson; great-grandchildren, Taylon French and Kalu Chukwudoro; siblings, Marietta Smith (Vernon), Tom Davis, Gloria Hill, Sarah Frazier, and Lisa Gray; a host of nieces, nephew, other relatives and friends; last but not least, his beloved dog, Toby.

Funeral services for James Edwin Frazier I will be held on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. at Mt. Zion Missionary Baptist Church, 11 16th Street, Alexandria, Louisiana 71306. Public viewing and visitation will be held from 10:00 a.m. until the start of the service. Interment will follow at Garden of Memories Cemetery, 2733 Eddie Williams Avenue, Alexandria, Louisiana 71302.

As we celebrate the life of James Edwin Frazier I, we remember a man who lived fully, loved deeply, and laughed often. His spirit will continue to guide and inspire all who were fortunate enough to know him. May his memory be a blessing and his soul rest in eternal peace.


England panel to get confidential data center update

By JIM BUTLER

An England Authority executive session today to discuss a data center locating near Boyce seems certain to raise the hackles of skeptics.

A number of them posed questions about the project’s potential impact on water supply and electricity costs, among other topics, at the Authority’s February meeting. 

Assurances of no ill effects from those familiar with the dynamics of the proposal didn’t seem to mollify the objectors. 

At the time, it was said, back and forth with Applied Digital was ongoing, with many blanks left to fill.

Today’s confidential update, allowed by current interpretation of the public meetings law, regards that dialogue, according to the posted agenda. 

Also in the crowd in February were several elected officials from jurisdictions with a common interest though not expressed on the record – how payments in lieu of property taxes would be distributed and how much.

The property acquisition alone ($25 million) increases the total parish valuation, as will assessed value of the finished product which in turn affects ad valorem receipts. 

Will all payment in lieu go to public bodies? Will part go elsewhere? What mechanics are proposed? Such were the concerns informally raised One thing is certain – construction is underway on the 600+ acres site. 

The executive session “to discuss certain economic development negotiations related to Project Lightning and receive attorney-client privileged communications”is the only matter on today’s agenda. A two-thirds yes vote is required to hold the closed discussion. 

The Authority’s regular April meeting is scheduled for 4 p.m. Thursday.


Search continues for missing boater after Red River incident near Buhlow Landing

Search and recovery efforts continued after a boat capsized late Saturday night on the Red River near Buhlow Landing, leaving one missing.

According to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office, deputies received a call around 11:30 p.m. on April 18, 2026, reporting an overturned boat with three occupants. Two individuals were able to make it safely to shore and were recovered without injuries, while a third remains missing.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is leading the search and recovery operation, with assistance from the RPSO Special Operations Group and multiple local agencies.

Assisting agencies include the Pineville Police Department, Pineville Fire Department, Alexandria Fire Department, Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, Pafford Ambulance Service and the Red River Waterway Commission.

Officials say the Buhlow Red River Boat Landing will remain closed to civilian traffic until further notice as crews continue search efforts.

Authorities have not released additional details at this time and said further updates will come from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries.


GAEDA to consider new post, and discuss another

By JIM BUTLER

GAEDA members will consider creating a new position at their Tuesday morning meeting as well as airing some concerns regarding an existing one. 

The Greater Alexandria Economic Development Authority’s agenda includes creating a director of strategic initiatives job description along with posting of the opening and solicitation for applications. 

According to different web sites,  such a slot concentrates on specific projects and partnerships. After that action, the board proposes to go into executive session to discuss the character, professional competence or physical or mental health of a person, presumably an employee. 

Written notice to the person is required at least 24 hours in advance. Under Louisiana law, the person has the right to have the discussion in open session. 

A two-thirds vote is required to enter executive session. 

The 8:30 meeting is at GAEDA’s Murray Street building.


Broadband expansion brings high-speed internet to hundreds in Rapides Parish

State and local leaders joined ConnectLA in Woodworth to mark the completion of a broadband expansion project that will bring high-speed internet access to hundreds of households and businesses in Rapides Parish.

Provided by Optimum, the project connects 865 households and 68 businesses in areas that previously lacked reliable service. The expansion is part of the Granting Underserved Municipalities Broadband Opportunities (GUMBO) 1.0 program, an initiative aimed at achieving full broadband coverage across Louisiana.

Gov. Jeff Landry said continued investment in broadband infrastructure is critical for rural communities and credited federal and congressional support for helping make projects like this possible.

Veneeth Iyengar, executive director of ConnectLA, said the project reflects the state’s broader mission to ensure every community has access to quality broadband. He noted that more than 90 percent of Louisiana is now covered, with the state on track to close the digital divide by 2028 or sooner.

Area legislators emphasized the project’s long-term impact on residents and economic development. State Sen. Heather Cloud described high-speed internet as an essential utility that will improve daily life, while State Rep. Michael T. Johnson said the investment will support families, students and employers. State Rep. Jason DeWitt added that expanding broadband access helps drive job growth, innovation and opportunity across the region.

Sean O’Connell, senior vice president and regional general manager at Optimum, said the company remains committed to expanding reliable, high-speed internet to underserved communities and supporting local growth.

The project is funded through the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Capital Projects Fund and administered by ConnectLA.


Detectives seek public’s assistance on locating stolen four wheeler

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division is requesting the public’s assistance for any information leading to the recovery of a Honda four-wheeler, stolen during the month of March 2026 from a hunting camp in the Kolin area.

The four-wheeler is a 2004 Honda Rubicon 500, yellow in color, with aftermarket cargo baskets affixed to the front and rear.

If anyone has any information about his theft, they are asked to contact Detective John T. DeVille, Criminal Investigations Division-Kolin Substation at 318-484-7350, Main Office at 318-473-6700 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.


Pineville softball opens playoffs at home today

The second-seeded Pineville Lady Rebels open the state playoffs at home today at 5:30 against 15th-seeded Captain Shreve.

Pineville is 25-9. Captain Shreve is 17-15. Shreve beat Edna Karr 14-0 last Thursday while Pineville had a first-round bye in Select Division I.

First-round results over the weekend for Rapides Parish teams in the LHSAA playoffs:

SOFTBALL

Class B

Grace Christian 7, Glenmora 5

BASEBALL

Select Division I 

Pineville over Riverdale 2-0 (12-1, 8-1, at Riverdale)


Alexandria man facing murder, drug charges

Arrests are accusations, not convictions.

April 19

Detriavon D. Green, 25, Alexandria – indecent behavior with juveniles, misdemeanor sexual battery, $500 bail;

Christopher Lynn Neal, 49, Boyce – aggravated battery, domestic abuse battery with child present, cruelty to juveniles, no bail data;

Ladier Lanay Newman, 37, Alexandria – aggravated battery, no bail data.

April 18

Alisa Michelle Parker Albert, 56, Pineville – three counts domestic abuse aggravated assault child endangerment, no bail data;

Alyssa Cagle, 20, Alexandria – two counts possession of CDS, misrepresentation during booking, paraphernalia, tobacco unlawful sale/purchase under 18 years old, $3,500 bail;

Skyler Coco, 29, Marksville – OWI first offense, $1,000 bail;

Trevon Shavez Coulter, 31, Alexandria – theft, five counts contempt of court, $16,500 bail;

Marcus Dylan Huff, 34, Deville – home invasion, aggravated assault upon a dating partner, criminal damage to property, possession of marijuana, $15,500 bail;

Danette Michelle Jowers, 47, Boyce – OWI first offense, careless operation, $1,100 bail;

Mario Lotts, 53, Pineville – OWI second offense, improper lane usage, $1,600 bail;

Shelton Morris Ray Jr. 49, Lecompte – four counts theft, three counts criminal trespass, aggravated resisting police officer with force or violence, three counts flight from an officer, $5,000 bail;

Amber Nelson, 28, Marksville – OWI first offense, improper lane usage, canceled plate violation, speeding, $1,300 bail;

Anthony Jerrod Perry Jr., 19, Alexandria – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, tail lamps must emit red light, $2,100 bail;

Dontay Anthony Ross, 31, Alexandria – armed robbery, parole violations, $50,000 bail;

Bailey S. Summerlin, 23, Pineville – second degree battery, simple battery, probation violation, $5,500 bail.

April 17

Christin Leon Angel, 24, Ball – simple burglary, possession of firearm by convicted felon, $50,000 bail;

Daniel Lee Burns, 42, Pineville – two counts simple burglary, parole violations, four counts contempt of court, $42,000 bail;

Tianto Clark Sr., 41, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS with intent, four counts possession of CDS, parole violations, $19,000 bail;

Bradley Wayne Davis, 43, Pineville – possession of CDS, bicycle reflectors, resisting an officer, simple littering, probation violation, $2,600 bail;

Quashikula Holmes, 30, Alexandria – theft, five counts contempt of court, $205,000 bail;

Charles Edward Jemison Jr., 55, Alexandria – OWI, reckless operation, $1,300 bail;

Derius Dayonn Long, 29, Alexandria – 10 counts producing manufacturing distributing CDS, 11 counts taking contraband to and from penal institutions, $220,000 bail;

Erick Dustin Love, 38, Alexandria – two counts contempt of court, $100,000 bail;

Darin Joseph Mayberry, 38, Alexandria – OWI first offense, open container, improper parking, $1,200 bail;

Derrick Dewayne Moore Sr., 47, Alexandria – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, possession of CDS, obstruction of justice, switched license plate, parole violations, resisting an officer, $2,700 bail;

Jason Chad Smith, 55, Alexandria – no insurance, obstruction of driver’s view, driving under suspension, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of marijuana, possession of CDS, legend drug possession, parole violations, $3,300 bail;

Thawri Sameer Zeidan, 23, Alexandria – possession of CDS, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, paraphernalia, probation violation, $55,500 bail.

April 16

Jamir Yasin Baxter, 25, Pineville – theft, criminal damage to property, use of CDS in person under 17 year-old, aggravated assault domestic abuse, simple escape, possession of CDS, domestic abuse battery with child present, obstruction of justice, $42,000 bail;

Austin Rayshun Byrd, 30, Alexandria – domestic abuse battery with child present, domestic abuse battery, car jacking, flight from an officer, unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, parole violations, two counts contempt of court, $72,000 bail;

Conner Ray Coker, 22, Pineville – theft of a motor vehicle, unauthorized use of a movable, criminal trespass, probation violation, contempt of court, $9,000 bail;

Erik Jermaine Fontenot, 46, Maringoulin – flight from an officer, possession of CDS, $31,500 bail;

Ian Scott Gaspard, 22, Alexandria – aggravated assault domestic abuse, domestic abuse battery, $8,000 bail;

Troyvonta Deonta Green, 28, Alexandria – second degree murder, possession of firearm by convicted felon, parole violations, criminal damage to property, simple escape, producing manufacturing distributing CDS with intent, producing manufacturing distributing marijuana, taking contraband to and from penal institutions, criminal conspiracy, simple battery, $575,000 bail;

Malik Hampton, 22, Alexandria – manufacture transfer or possession of machine guns, possession of marijuana, $200,000 bail;

Freddie Henton, 50, Alexandria – three counts producing manufacturing distributing cocaine, producing manufacturing distributing CDS, legend drug imprint, paraphernalia, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal carry firearm with drugs, $80,500 bail;

John Thomas Iles, 43, Hineston – insurance fraud, $5,000 bail;

Derek Ivan Leimkuhler, 39, Pineville – theft of a motor vehicle, $5,000 bail;

Destiny Marie Rainwater, 24, Ball – three counts contempt of court, $51,500 bail;

Stephen Earnest Sasser, 55, Deville – producing manufacturing distributing CDS, money laundering, criminal conspiracy, illegal carry firearm with drugs, transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, possession of marijuana, possession of firearm by convicted felon, possession of CDS, parole violations, $173,000 bail;

Benjamin Bryant Walding, 29, Boyce – concealed negligent carry, illegal use of weapons, simple battery on the infirmed, $3,000 bail.

April 15

Lindsey Anderson, 43, Pineville – two counts possession of CDS, theft, $3,500 bail;

James Allen Andrews, 31, Boyce – two counts hit and run driving, simple battery, false imprisonment, $2,500 bail;

Dillan Aught, 20, Alexandria – unauthorized entry of an inhabited dwelling, contempt of non-support, $250,000 bail;

James Cleveland Brossett, 43, Pineville – illegal possession of stolen firearms, misuse of temp/dealer tag, $1,100 bail;

Ja’Michael Lawayne Johnson, 18, Alexandria – second degree battery, aggravated assault on a school teacher, disturbing the peace, simple assault resisting an officer, resisting an officer, $16,500 bail;

Jermaine Johnson, 53, Alexandria – possession of CDS, illegal carry firearm with drugs, possession of a firearm by convicted felon, contempt of court, $77,500 bail;

Kimberly Sarah Ekko Juderman, 32, Pineville – possession of fentanyl, possession of CDS, paraphernalia, $7,000 bail.


Remembering Jack Rene’ Richard

Memorial service for Jack Rene’ Richard will be held at 12:00 PM on Saturday, April 25, 2026, at St. Frances Cabrini Catholic Church with Rev. Chad Partain officiating.

Jack Rene’ Richard, 87, of Alexandria, passed away in his home on Wednesday, April 15, 2026.

Jack is preceded in death by his parents, Allen and Sue Richard; sister, Mary Sue Richard Gray and brother, Robin Allen Richard, all of Lake Charles, LA.

Jack graduated from Lake Charles High School in 1957. He went on to study forestry at McNeese State College, earning a Bachelor of Science in Forestry. During the 1964–1965 academic year, he was honored as the Agriculture Department’s Most Outstanding Student. He built a lifelong career with the United States Forest Service as a U.S. Forest Ranger before retiring in 1986. In 1983, he and his wife, Agatha, purchased an Armstrong McCall Beauty Supply franchise, which continues to serve salon professionals throughout central Louisiana.

Jack was an avid outdoorsman who loved fishing and hunting. His favorite fishing spot was “Big Lake,” where he enjoyed catching redfish. He took great pride in managing his small parcel of land and making improvements with his beloved, restored 1955 Jubilee Edition Ford tractor. He also had a passion for collecting antique coal oil lamps, amassing a collection of over 100. Antiquing and exploring vintage shops brought him great joy, especially while traveling across the South. Jack had an old soul and a deep appreciation for history.

He cherished beach vacations with his children and grandchildren, finding joy in surf fishing and watching sunsets over the waves. Above all, Jack was devoted to his family, always striving to care for and provide for them. He was also known for his generosity and compassion toward others in need. Jack was deeply loved and will be greatly missed by all who knew him.

Those left to cherish his memory include his wife, Agatha Fontenot Richard, of Lake Charles; his children, Lisa Richard, Lynnette Richard Colbert, and Jacqueline Richard Hart; and five grandchildren.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the St. Frances Cabrini Flower Fund, 2211 E Texas Ave, Alexandria, LA 71301 or a tree may be planted in his memory.


Remembering Cleo Lewis Dorsey

Mr. Cleo Lewis Dorsey passed away on Sunday April 12, 2026, in Alexandria, Louisiana at the age of 64. He was born on August 5, 1961, in Blytheville, Arkansas to Mrs. Viola Duncan Dorsey and Mr. Robert Dorsey Sr.

Cleo was a warm and loving father, brother, uncle, and friend. He always wanted to see us happy and make us laugh. We all have a funny story to tell of his jokes. He will be terribly missed.

Mr. Dorsey served in the United States Air Force as a firefighter where he received an honorable discharge where he went on to become a radiology technician for Saint Francis Cabrini Hospital in Alexandria, Louisiana.

He is preceded in death by his parents, four brothers, B.B. Owens, Robert Dorsey Jr., Bordy Dorsey, and Jessie Dorsey. Three sisters, Betty Owens, Luella Owens, and Milinda Franklin.

He leaves to mourn his death one daughter Brittany (Andre) Clark, two granddaughters Jaila Johnson and Kyli White all of Alexandria, Louisiana; one brother Climmie (Glenda) Dorsey of Gary, Indiana; Five sisters Mae Jackson, Ethel Dorsey, Priscilla Lewis, Roberta Goins all of Blytheville, Arkansas and Gracie Golden of West Memphis, Arkansas; his favorite aunt Rosie Myers of Saint Louis, Missouri. Countless cousins, nieces, nephews and friends who all loved him dearly.

Visitation will be on Friday April 24, 2026, from 6-8pm at Wilson Funeral Home Chapel in Blytheville, Arkansas. Funeral will be on April 25,2026 at 10:00am at the Wilson Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will be at Memory Gardens in Blytheville, Arkansas.


Disturbance, gunfire reported at Cheneyville softball game, no injuries

A disturbance at a community softball game in Cheneyville Sunday evening led to multiple arrests and reports of gunfire, according to the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Authorities said dispatchers received a call around 7:15 p.m. on April 19, 2026, reporting a large disturbance involving several groups of individuals at the game.

When deputies arrived, they identified four individuals involved in the altercation and took them into custody without incident. One of those individuals was reportedly armed with a knife.

While deputies were still on scene, a separate incident caused panic among those gathered when a suspect described as a Black male wearing a blue hoodie allegedly fired approximately five rounds into the air. The suspect fled into a nearby subdivision and was not located despite a search of the area.

Deputies recovered shell casings at the scene, which will be submitted for fingerprint and DNA analysis.

No injuries were reported in either incident.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-473-6700 or Crime Stoppers at 318-443-7867.


Rapides Parish Police Jury to hold special meeting April 20

The Rapides Parish Police Jury has scheduled a special meeting for Monday, April 20, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. at the Police Jury Room in the Rapides Parish Courthouse.

The meeting will include consideration of authorizing the parish purchasing agent to advertise and receive bids for three used dump trucks for the Rapides Parish Public Works Department.

Jurors will also consider amending a motion previously passed on April 13, 2026, to allow for the advertisement and receipt of bids for off-road and on-road diesel fuel, as well as storage tanks for the Public Works Department. The proposed storage tank locations include the Area 1 Public Works Main Office, Area 2 Esler Field site and Area 3 Glenmora work site.

The meeting will conclude with adjournment.


LPB series LA64 to spotlight Rapides Parish in upcoming episode

Louisiana Public Broadcasting will continue its statewide travel series LA64 with a new episode airing Monday, April 20 at 8 p.m., featuring Rapides Parish.

Hosted by Louisiana native and travel journalist Karen LeBlanc, the series explores all 64 parishes across the state, highlighting the food, culture, history and daily life unique to each region.

The upcoming episode focuses on Rapides Parish, described as a central point where Louisiana’s landscapes and history meet. The program includes stops in Alexandria and Pineville, as well as visits to the historic lumber town of Long Leaf and the former World War II training site, Camp Claiborne.

The episode highlights the region’s connections to agriculture, military history and small-town development, offering viewers a look at the parish’s role at the geographic and cultural center of the state.

LA64 is part of Louisiana Public Broadcasting’s 50th anniversary programming. Previous episodes of the series are available for streaming online and on LPB’s YouTube channel.

Support for the series is provided by the Office of Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser, Keep Louisiana Beautiful, the Louisiana Office of Tourism and several regional and educational organizations.