The Shreveport Police Department is aware of an incident that recently surfaced on social media involving one of their officers. The video in question shows an officer returning items to a local store. This matter was first brought to their attention by local news outlet KSLA, and once made aware, the department immediately initiated both a criminal investigation and an administrative investigation to address the concerns raised.

Chief Wayne Smith acted swiftly upon receiving this information. Out of an abundance of caution and in the interest of maintaining public trust, Chief Smith placed three Shreveport Police Department officers on administrative leave. These officers were directly involved in responding to the initial incident.

Administrative leave is a standard procedure that ensures a fair and thorough investigation can take place while protecting the integrity of both the process and the department. 

After a thorough investigation, three officers have been arrested and charged with theft and malfeasance in office in connection with this incident. The investigation determined that the officers were originally called to a local casino by a vehicle recovery agency. During the repossession process, the recovery agent observed a large quantity of items inside the vehicle. The criminal allegations involve items taken from within that vehicle—some of which were recovered and returned, while others were located in the Shreveport Police Department property room.

The officers arrested include:

• Officer Kourtney Jackson, hired as a dispatcher in 2018 and transitioned to a police officer in 2023.
• Corporal Shanora Gipson Ross, employed with the department since 2016.
• Corporal Tarogie Jones, employed with the department since 2016.

These officers were booked into the Caddo Correctional Center on Friday, Sept. 5.

Chief Wayne Smith and the Shreveport Police Department remain committed to accountability and transparency. While it is painful to address misconduct within their own ranks, SPD acknowledges that they must hold themselves to the highest standards in order to serve the community with honor and integrity. No one is above the law, and when policies or laws are violated, appropriate action will always be taken.

SPD thanked KSLA for promptly bringing this matter to their attention, which allowed them to act quickly and decisively.