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Thirty-year-old Maurice Devon Grant of Haughton has been arrested on multiple felony charges after investigators reportedly uncovered videos showing him sexually assaulting a severely medically disabled, non-verbal student inside a special needs classroom at a Caddo Parish high school.

The investigation began with a CyberTipline report from the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children and led investigators to multiple videos documenting the alleged abuse.

Grant faces 18 felony counts, including three counts each of first-degree rape, prohibited sexual conduct between educator and student, molestation of a person with a physical or mental disability, sexual battery of persons with infirmities, cruelty to elderly and persons with infirmities, and abuse of persons with infirmities through electronic means.

Grant is currently incarcerated at the Bossier Maximum-Security Facility on a separate charge related to the production of child sexual abuse material and is awaiting booking into the Caddo Correctional Center.

The Shreveport Police Department said the investigation involved the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, the Shreveport Police Department and the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

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Shreveport Police arrested Courtery Brunson following an investigation into the destruction of more than 400 feet of fiber optic cable on Buncombe Road.

The damage was discovered Aug. 21 and caused an estimated $10,000 in losses.

Shreveport Police Department Property Crimes investigators reviewed photographs, license plate reader information and other evidence to identify a vehicle believed to have been involved. Just days later, investigators spotted the same vehicle in Shreveport and coordinated with patrol officers to conduct a traffic stop.

Further investigation and a positive witness identification led to Brunson’s arrest for felony simple criminal damage to property.

The Shreveport Police Department said the case was an example of detectives, technology and patrol officers working together to hold offenders accountable.

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Update:

Phoebe Rosemary Bentley has been arrested, Blevins is still wanted.

Original Press Release:

Shreveport Police Department detectives obtained arrest warrants for Wesley Carl Blevins and Phoebe Rosemary Bentley following an investigation into the theft of an employee’s cellphone from Uptown Cheapskate on Line Avenue.

The theft occurred Aug. 6, 2026, when investigators said Blevins and Bentley were standing at the counter while employees sorted through clothing they had brought into the store.

Surveillance video allegedly showed Blevins picking up an Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max and handing it to Bentley. Bentley then put the phone in her pocket and left the business.

Employees identified Blevins through the store’s customer rewards account, and detectives later confirmed his identity.

Blevins was charged with theft as a habitual offender due to two prior theft convictions in Shreveport. He was also already out on bond in connection with multiple alleged package thefts from earlier this year.

Bentley was wanted for theft.

The Shreveport Police Department asked anyone who knew the whereabouts of Blevins or Bentley to contact the department.

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By DAVID ERSOFF, Journal Contributor

Both my daughters attended Centenary College, so for eight years I found myself in and around that part of town, whether dropping something off or going to one of their soccer games. When in that area I would frequent Papa & Company, 545 East Washington Street, Shreveport. Sadly, now that my youngest graduated in 2025, I haven’t been back. I just don’t find myself in that area much during the day.

While looking at places to eat this week, I was thinking about burgers, and where I could go to get a good one. It didn’t take much for me to remember one of the best ones I’ve ever had, from Papa’s!

I didn’t have time to eat there as I had some friends coming over to help fix the A/C in my car. It’s good to have friends that know how to do that. I ordered a few items so none of us would go hungry on a hot afternoon.

Papa’s burgers are what I always ordered in the past. That year and a half since I was last there did not cool my love for their burger. This week I ordered the regular cheeseburger, which is a ¾ pound patty on a freshly baked bun. It is a big burger, juicy with a great meat-to-bun ratio (that can make or break a burger) with fresh lettuce, tomato and onion.

I ate half of it and shared the rest with my friends, who had never had Papa’s before. I think they wanted  more! Luckily I ordered Shrimp and Crawfish Po-Boys. Those were really what I ordered for them. I did cut a little taste of both for me to try before they grabbed theirs.

The Po-Boys were very good, cooked perfectly. Both have a good kick to them, The lettuce and tomato were very fresh and the remoulade sauce added a nice touch to the Po-Boys. Papa’s also bakes their Po-Boy buns fresh daily, and that puts these in the elite category.

These meals all come with fries that are very tasty. I chose to upgrade one of them to funnel cake fries, something I’ve seen on menus before but had never tried. The funnel cake fries were good and sweet. There was an almost dessert-like flavor that satisfied my sweet tooth for the day.

Sometimes it’s easy to forget the places that have been around for a long time, and my visit back to Papa’s reminded me that these places have been in business for a reason — their food is good. I think Papa’s gained a couple new customers, with my friends having finished every last bite of their food, then asking where Papa’s is located.

Lunch was well worth it, as my A/C is back to blowing ice cold air.

Contact David at dersoff@bellsouth.net

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SporTran Launches Louisiana’s First Autonomous Public Transit Vehicle

SporTran Transit unveiled Shreveport-Bossier’s first autonomous public transit vehicle Thursday, becoming the first transit authority in Louisiana to operate a self-driving bus. The 12-passenger vehicle is part of a pilot program and will cycle through different routes across the Shreveport-Bossier area. A driver remains behind the wheel during this initial phase to monitor the vehicle’s performance. SporTran CEO Dinero Washington said the agency plans to expand the autonomous program across the region as confidence in the technology grows. The bus was purchased using federal transit funds.

Bossier City Attorney Charles Jacobs Steps Down Today

Bossier City Attorney Charles Jacobs submitted his resignation last week, with today, Aug. 31, being his last day on the job. The city has not released a reason for his departure and is actively accepting applications to fill the position. Jacobs served as city attorney through several significant legal matters, including the long-running U.L. Coleman federal consent decree that reached its final phase earlier this year.

Louisiana AG Murrill Appeals Caddo Commission Open Meetings Case

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill has formally appealed the district court ruling in her office’s open meetings lawsuit against seven Caddo Parish Commissioners. The case stems from a June 2025 incident in which some commissioners prepared and issued a resolution welcoming U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders to Shreveport without holding a formal public meeting. The lawsuit was dismissed in January 2026 by Special Judge John C. Davidson, who later ordered Murrill’s office to pay nearly $245,000 in attorney’s fees and sanctions to the Caddo Commission. Murrill is contesting both the dismissal and the fee award. The appeal is now before the Louisiana Second Circuit Court of Appeal.

Reminder: Bossier Parish Restroom Ordinance Public Hearing Tomorrow

The Bossier Parish Police Jury holds its public hearing on Ordinance No. 5127 tomorrow, Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 9 a.m. at the Bossier Parish Courthouse in Benton. The proposed ordinance would criminalize the use of parish-owned restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities that do not correspond with a person’s biological sex assigned at birth. Opponents include the ACLU of Louisiana, Louisiana Trans Advocates, and more than 270 individuals and organizations statewide. No final vote is expected at tomorrow’s hearing.

Plain Dealing – This morning, at approximately 12:25 a.m., Troopers from Louisiana State Police Troop G responded to a single-vehicle crash on Demoss Hill Road near Old Plain Dealing Road. The crash claimed the life of 31-year-old Amelia Swindell of Tulsa, OK.

The preliminary investigation revealed that a 2013 Nissan Sentra, driven by Swindell, was traveling west on Demoss Hill Road. For reasons still under investigation, the Nissan exited the roadway and collided with a tree.

Swindell, who was unrestrained at the time of the crash, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced deceased at the scene. A passenger in the vehicle, who was unrestrained, sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital for treatment. 

Impairment on the part of Swindell is suspected. Standard toxicology samples were taken and submitted for analysis. This crash remains under investigation.

Troopers wish to remind motorists of the importance of making good decisions while in motor vehicles. Never drive while impaired, fatigued, or distracted. Additionally, Louisiana law requires that every person inside a motor vehicle, regardless of seating position, always remain properly restrained. While not all crashes are survivable, taking simple precautions like these can mean the difference between life and death.

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Three Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies have graduated from the 49th D.A.R.E. Officer Training School at the Louisiana D.A.R.E. Training Center in Livingston Parish.

Deputies Gavin Muller, Marcus Clark, and Megan Rasmussen, successfully completed the training and are now certified to teach the D.A.R.E. curriculum to students in Bossier Parish schools.

D.A.R.E., which stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education, provides students with the knowledge and skills to make positive decisions and resist the dangers associated with drugs, alcohol, tobacco, violence and other challenges facing today’s youth. Bullying prevention and making healthy, responsible choices are also important components of the program.

During the 49th Officer Training Graduation, Louisiana D.A.R.E. Training Center Director Lt. Gene Higginbotham welcomed guests and recognized the graduating officers.

Bossier Parish Sheriff Julian Whittington addressed the graduates, reminding them that they are setting an example for the students they teach and spoke about the lasting impact D.A.R.E. officers can have on young people, sharing that after 39 years in law enforcement, some of the students he once taught through D.A.R.E. have gone on to become members of the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Bossier Sheriff Deputy Megan Rasmussen received additional recognition during the graduation, being named the Overall Top Student of the training class. She was awarded the D.A.R.E. Lion, a distinction each team competed for throughout the week, and was also recognized as the Most Outstanding Team Member.

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By DOUG IRELAND, Journal Sports

ATLANTA – With three birdies in a six-hole stretch in the middle of his final round Sunday at the Tour Championship, Sam Burns was not only in position for another top 10 finish, but was only three shots off the lead.

Then East Lake Golf Club and windy conditions did to Burns what it most of the 29 finalists in the FedEx Cup playoffs on Sunday – and the Shreveport native backed up on the leaderboard.

Burns was 4-over on the last eight holes, beginning with a bogey on the par-3 11^th. He had to take a pair of penalty strokes, one from a ball into the water hazard around the island green on the par-3 15^th, and the other on an unplayable lie in a bunker on the 17^th  on the way to a double bogey.

The damage dumped him to a tie for 18^th, nine spots below where he started Sunday’s round. Burns finished with a two-over 72 and 7-under for the week (66-68-67-72 – 273), earning a $460,000 share of the $40 million purse.

But in the PGA Tour’s restructured bonus system, taking into account season-long play, it was a better day for the 30-year-old Shreveport native. He collected a $1.7 million bonus and will receive another $700,000 in deferred money.

He stands ninth in the Official World Golf Rankings and is fourth in the U.S. Presidents Cup rankings. The top six, once officially confirmed, receive automatic berths on the USA roster for that international competition Sept. 24-27 in Medinah, Ill., at fabled Medinah Country Club.

It will be his fifth straight international competition at the professional level.

World No. 1 Scottie Scheffler won the $10 million first place prize, and added another $23 million in bonus money, as he shot a 4-under 66 in the final round and won with a 16-under par score. The rest of the field averaged 2.5 more strokes in Sunday’s final round than it did on Saturday due to the wind and hardened greens and fairways.

Contact Doug at sbjdoug@gmail.com

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JOURNAL SPORTS

Airline’s comeback win over Parkway was easily the most competitive contest in weekend high school football jamboree action.

The Vikings got a quarterback keeper by Chase Williams with nine seconds remaining to complete a rally from a 15-0 deficit to edge their South Bossier rivals in the Bossier Lions Club Jamboree at Airline’s M.D. Ray Stadium.

The only other one-score outcome was Green Oaks’ 7-0 win over Woodlawn, with the only score coming on a fumble return by Giants’ senior defensive end Jakerrious Smith in the Caddo Parish Jamboree at Independence Stadium.

Most of the jamboree competition was matchups of two 12-minute quarters.

Regular-season games begin Thursday night.

THURSDAY’S SCORES

Captain Shreve 49, Byrd 21

Huntington 45, Northwood 33

FRIDAY’S SCORES

Haughton 21, Benton 7

Bossier 18 Plain Dealing 0 (one quarter)

Airline 26, Parkway 23

Booker T. Washington 16, Magnolia School of Excellence 0

Southwood 14, North Caddo 0

Green Oaks 7, Woodlawn 0

Loyola 28, Montgomery 0 (one quarter)

Loyola 20, Glenbrook 0 (one quarter)

Calvary 35, Red River 0

SATURDAY’S SCORE

Ruston 49, Evangel 7

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By T. SCOTT BOATRIGHT, Lincoln Parish Journal

GRAMBLING — Junior running back Tony Phillips was a big figure for Grambling State’s football team all month — all 5-7 and 150 pounds of him — heading into Saturday evening’s season opener against NAIA foe Clark Atlanta University.

So, it wasn’t any surprise that Phillps turned in the two biggest plays for the G-Men as the Tigers roared to a 49-7 over the Panthers at Eddie G. Robinson Stadium.

Phillips stormed out of the gates on the opening kickoff, taking it 89 yards to paydirt before adding the second score of the night for the Tigers on a 20-yard scamper through the left B-Gap to push Grambling State’s advantage to 14-0 only six seconds into the second quarter.

“Tony had the best camp than any player on offense or defense,” said GSU coach Mickey Joseph. “Tony showed up every day in camp. Tony really got better off the field — Tony’s a 4.0 student now. And Tony’s trying to gain weight. Tony’s probably the toughest kid on this team pound-for-pound.

“I told Tony today he was going to run the first kickoff back. I’m impressed with Tony. I’m pleased with what Tony’s doing. The whole running back room is young and I thought they all ran the ball well.”

Joseph admitted he had trouble sleeping Friday night because he knew very little about the Clark Atlanta football team.

“We talked about a couple of things (in the locker room),” Joseph said. “We talked about wanting to go 1-0 this weekend and we accomplished that. And then we talked about playing within the rules because we knew nothing about (Clark Atlanta). Their coach got released in May and then they hired Terry (Sims), who got there in July. And we didn’t get a roster on them until Thursday. 

“Usually this team prepares by watching film so we can see what they do (opposing teams). So, we had no clue about what (Clark Atlanta) would be doing. We had to go on rules and go on trust — I take my hat to the team and our coaches for preparing. But disappointed in seeing too many penalties again, starting the season off like that — too many penalties.

“Everything that went bad today, we can clean up, But at the end of the story, we won the same and that’s what we came to do.”

Joseph had said last week that he would likely again use multiple quarterbacks in the contest. It ended up being four, with Jackobe Robinson, a transfer from the University of Mississippi, taking the first offensive snap for the Tigers. 

Redshirt senior Ashton Frye was the next QB in for GSU, followed by redshirt junior transfer Reginald Johnson from Florida A&M-via-UMass. Late in the game, GSU’s fourth starting quarterback last season, Hayden Benoit, also played, completing 2-of-2 passes for 34 yards while conducting a touchdown drive.

Johnson fared best at quarterback for Grambling, completing 15-of-17 passes for 133 yards including an 11-yard scoring strike to redshirt sophomore receiver Tyson George.

“RJ was 7-of-7 at one time and I think he finished 15-of-17 ,” Joseph said. “We’ve got to get him to be better. He’s got to settle down. But remember, RJ just got here, so RJ really doesn’t have the system down the rest of the kids do. So, RJ can’t do anything but get better. I was pleased with the way he played. He played with some poise.”

None of Grambling’s quarterbacks fared poorly. Robinson completed 7-of-11 passes for 71 yards, including a 7-yard touchdown pass to running back Byron Eaton, Jr. with 17 seconds left in the second quarter to give GSU a 28-0 halftime advantage while Frye connected on 2-of-5 passes for 26 yards while adding 24 rushing yards on three carries.

Andre Crews led Grambling’s running backs with 50 yards on six carries while DeShun Ford, a transfer from Louisiana-Monroe, added 41 yards on six carries, including a 2-yard plunge to paydirt with 5:42 remaining. Clyde McClendon Jr. added 24 more rushing yards for GSU, including a 21-yard scoring scamper.

Save for one blown coverage resulting in Clark Atlanta’s lone score of the game on a 64-yard scoring pass less than two minutes into the second period, GSU’s defense dominated the Panthers.

“They played well,” Joseph said of his defense. “But they gave up too many first downs. They gave up 10 first downs. But (CAU) was 1-of-13 on third-down attempts. The kids played well. And if you know my kids and this generation, they’re visual learners. They need film. We couldn’t show them film, and that was killing us.

“I didn’t sleep last night because I thought (CAU) might come out with this awesome transfer portal roster because of all the kids out there right now that can only go (Division II) or NAIA right now.”

Contact Scott at tscottboatright@gmail.com

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Hays Cahn of Legacy Elementary has been selected for the 2026 National Math Stars Pathfinder Cohort.

National Math Stars is a program that identifies and supports students who demonstrate exceptional mathematical potential. The program provides opportunities for talented young mathematicians to continue developing their skills through advanced learning experiences and a community of students who share their love and talent for math.

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Jody A Webb, 59, of Shreveport, LA, passed away peacefully at his home in Shreveport, on August 22, 2026, after a long battle with Appendiceal Cancer/Pseudomyxoma Peritonei.

Jody was born April 5, 1967 in Monroe, Louisiana to Jackie (Webb) Pardue (nee Johnson). He grew up in Louisiana and Arkansas, and attended college at the University of Central Arkansas in Conway, AR.

Through the years, Jody taught History and other related subjects. He also coached Football and Field and Track. He was dedicated to helping as many “young people” as possible – encouraging them, listening to them, advising them, and helping them achieve their goals.

He also served in different churches over the years as Pastor, Interim Pastor, Youth Pastor, and Worship Leader. He was very strong in his faith, loved sharing his testimony and The Word with others, and singing the Lord’s praises.

Jody loved music, especially from the 80’s. He enjoyed Karaoke nights, making special playlists for different occasions, and live music. He was always searching for the next concert or music festival to attend. Trivia was also something he enjoyed. He watched trivia shows, played games, and participated in local trivia nights.

Jody was an avid wrestling fan. He enjoyed watching WWE with his family, and attending shows and matches with his son, who shares his love of the sport. Jody even took his turn in the ring for a while, wrestling in local area wrestling associations.
Jody loved football. The Saints and LSU were his favorites, of course.

Family was very important to Jody. He valued spending time together, attending events together, and finding fun activities for everyone. He was a loving husband, father, son, brother, cousin, nephew, coach, teacher, and preacher. He will be missed by all who knew him.

Jody selflessly donated his body to science in the hope that something can be learned about this rare and devastating disease to help others in the future.

Jody was proceded in death by his grandparents Lois (nee Major) and Jesse Monroe Webb, Les and Mae (nee Kennedy) Johnson, infant sister – Lisa Ann Brown, his beloved Aunt Leona Schinks, cousin Jamon Franks, and Uncle Mike Hale.

Left to cherish his memory are his wife of 12 years, Ramona; son and daughter-in-law Sam Moix and Katie Tracey, and granddaughter Clara – all of Nacogdoches, TX; and daughter Madeline Moix of Shreveport, LA; his mother and step-father – Jackie and Larry Pardue of Downsville, LA; mother-in-law – Jackie Johnson of Warren, AR; sister and brother-in-law – Susan and Sean Boudreaux of Calhoun, LA; brother and sister-in-law – Jay and Rachel Webb, of Pantego, TX; sisters-in-law Kathy Lister of Huntington, WV and Gale Harrelson of New Edinburg, AR; Aunt Johnnie Hale, of Monroe, LA; and Aunt and Uncle Judi and Leroy Rice of Monroe, LA. Other loved ones include all his nieces, nephews, cousins, aunts, and uncles.

The family would like to thank his doctors and caregivers that he had throughout this journey – Dr. Lash, Dr. Davis, Dr. Song, Samantha Edmiston, and Craig Knoll.

A Celebration of his Life will be held September 20, 2026 from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. at Bayou Longbeard Bed and Breakfast, 4006 Bon Aire Drive, Monroe, LA 71203. All who knew and loved him are invited to attend this come-and-go event.

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Marian D. Grimes, beloved wife, mother, grandmother, sister, aunt and friend passed away peacefully on Tuesday, August 25, 2026. Born in Shreveport, Louisiana on May 31, 1954, she will be remembered for her generous heart and deep affection given freely to family and friends. Marian graduated from C.E. Byrd High School and Northeast Louisiana University. She earned a Masters in Education from Centenary College of Shreveport, LA.

She was preceded in death by her parents Herbert Arthur Dinkins and Marie Florence Bourgeois Dinkins, her brother Walter Arthur Dinkins of Dallas, TX, her brother-in-law Jerry Borchert, and niece Katherine Emma Borchert of Denton, TX.

She is survived by her husband of 43 years, William Reid Grimes, MD, her sons William Reid Grimes, Jr., Phd, MBA, and his wife Hannah, DDS, MD, of San Antonio, TX, and Arthur Dinkins Grimes, MD, and his wife Sarah, MD, of Oklahoma City, OK, with their three children, Bennett, Beau, and Wynne.

She is also survived by her sisters Jeannie Dinkins Burgess and husband, Steve of Shreveport, LA, Nancy Dinkins Bagley and husband Pat, Phd, of Baton Rouge, LA, and Martha Dinkins Borchert of Denton, TX. In addition, she leaves behind her nieces Eleanor Bryn Burgess and Elaine Burgess (Jacob) Dickson of Shreveport, LA, Caroline Bagley (Gary) Black of Baton Rouge, LA, Claire Bagley (Tobin) Swope of Dallas, TX, and nephew Stuart Sidney Burgess of Shreveport, LA.

Marian was a member of First Presbyterian Church of Shreveport.

A family service will be held at a later date.

The kindness and support of CHRISTUS Hospice and Professional Sitters Services was greatly appreciated. Marian cherished her multiple physicians and their staffs.

The family suggests memorials be made to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105.

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Phonetic: /mor·​dant/

Part of Speech: Adjective

Definition

biting and caustic in thought, manner, or style : incisive
a mordant wit

acting as a mordant (as in dyeing)

burning, pungent
mordant pain

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Dan William Malone
November 14, 1945 – August 29, 2026
Service: Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 11am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Barbara Jean Ferguson
July 31, 1929 – August 28, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Joyce L. Witherwax
January 29, 1943 – August 27, 2026
Service: Monday, August 31, 2026, 11am at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Dana Jane Barnes
May 17, 1940 — August 26, 2026
Service: Monday, August 31, 2026, 11am at Rose-Neath Funeral Home Southside, Shreveport.

Eula Pennywell
March 23, 1935 – August 24, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11am at Baptist Temple Baptist Church located at 5024 Greenwood Road, Shreveport

Mabel Louise Johnson
May 10, 1944 — August 23, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Gloria Faye Stiles
May 7, 1939 — August 22, 2026
Service: Wednesday, September 2, 2026, 10:30am at Northwest Louisiana Veterans Cemetery, Shreveport.

Marie Delores Beaudin-McClought
January 2, 1940 — August 21, 2026
Service: Friday, September 4, 2026, 11am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Verdell D. Winzer
April 24, 1930 – August 21, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 11am at Good Samaritan Funeral Home, Shreveport.

David “Randy” Leon Sr.
December 27, 1959 – August 19, 2026
Service: Friday, September 4, 2026, 3pm at Centuries Memorial Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Catherine Thomas
August 13, 1947 — August 19, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 10am at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Donald Pat Pledger
September 2, 1938 — August 18, 2026
Service: Friday, September 11, 2026, 11am at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church, Shreveport.

Patsy Elder
? – August 16, 2026
Service: Monday, August 31, 2026, 10am at Aulds Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Vernon Lorden Doctrove
July 10, 1941 — August 13, 2026
Service: Saturday, September 5, 2026, 3pm at Winnfield Funeral Home, Shreveport.

Helen Christine “Chris” Frazier Belk
October 1, 1953 — August 6, 2026
Service: Saturday, October 3, 2026, 2pm at Broadmoor United Methodist Church, Shreveport.

Ernest Wellsworth
June 2, 1961 — August 4, 2026
Service: Thursday, September 3, 2026, 10:30am at Aulds Funeral Home, Shreveport.

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Ju’Marco Turmane Daniel, a Shreveport man who pleaded guilty to weapons charges in Caddo District Court last month, was sentenced Thursday, August 27, 2026, to serve a total of 20 years in prison at hard labor.

District Judge Donald E. Hathaway Jr., before whom Daniel, 31, pleaded July 22, sentenced him to varying terms for four charges.

For each of two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, he was ordered to serve 10 years at hard labor without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence, those terms to be served concurrently.

For a third count, unlawful handling of a machine gun, he was ordered to serve five years at hard labor. The final count, aggravated flight from an officer, also merited a five-year hard-labor term. The last two counts are to be served consecutive to the first two counts and to each other.

The facts would have shown at trial that on December 13, 2024, an officer with the Shreveport Police Department attempted to make a traffic stop on a 2023 white Nissan Altima near the intersection of Mansfield and Valley View roads. The vehicle, being driven by Daniel, fled from the officer, exceeding 63 mph through residential neighborhoods, running multiple stop signs and against oncoming traffic.

After reaching a dead end, Daniel abandoned the car and fled on foot and was chased by the officer until he was caught and arrested in a nearby canal. Nearby were two Glock handguns and his cellphone. One of the Glocks was modified to be an illegal machine gun. Daniel had prior convictions making it illegal for him to have the guns.

The court also considered a previous domestic violence conviction involving a pregnant victim in its sentencing.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Chase E. Burgess. The Caddo Public Defender’s Office represented Daniel.

The case was docket No. 405729.

Shreveporter Kiandrew McFan was sentenced to 12.5 years at hard labor Thursday, August 27, by Caddo District Judge Donald E. Hathaway Jr., following McFan pleading guilty July 22 after prosecutors announced they were ready for trial.

McFan, 25, faced charges of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and aggravated flight from an officer. For the firearms charge, Judge Hathaway ordered McFan to serve 7.5 years at hard labor without benefit of probation, parole or suspension of sentence. For the flight charge, McFan was ordered to serve five years at hard labor. The sentences are to run consecutively.

On October 13, 2024, an officer with the Shreveport Police Department attempted to make a traffic stop on a Chevrolet Camaro illegally burning out its tires in a nearby parking lot. The vehicle, driven by McFan, pulled out onto Jewella Avenue and continued to be operated in a reckless manner around other motorists. As the officer activated his lights and sirens, the Camaro fled, exceeding 100 mph, driving into oncoming traffic, running multiple red lights and swerving in between other vehicles before it crashed into a fence. McFan then fled on foot.

When searching the car, the officer found a Glock handgun between the driver’s seat and center console. McFan’s driver’s license and vehicle registration were found in the car, linking him to the flight. A past conviction for simple burglary prevented him from possessing a firearm. An arrest warrant was obtained and ultimately, he was arrested in DeSoto Parish.

In his reasoning for sentencing, Judge Hathaway referenced a previous federal conviction for illegal possession of an explosive device, as well as the danger presented by the flight to other motorists.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Chase E. Burgess. McFan was defended by Edward Mouton.

The case was docket No. 407482.

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Caddo Sheriff Henry Whitehorn Sr. held a swearing-in ceremony, bringing in six new deputies.

The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office welcomed:

Corrections Deputy: Alayziah Lewis, Almanik Kelly, Giovanni Smith

CCC Medical Nurse: Mary Jackson

Fines & Bonds Clerk: Lakendra Smith, Betty Perry

The Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Office is currently recruiting new personnel. Applicants aged 21 and older can apply for various positions, including corrections deputies, licensed practical nurses, registered nurses, building and groundskeepers, and part-time courthouse security personnel.

Take up the badge. Be the hero you want in your community. Be the next to be sworn in.

Apply here: https://www.caddosheriff.org/content.php?c=118

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Bossier Parish Restroom Ordinance Faces Growing Legal Challenges Ahead of Tuesday Hearing

The Bossier Parish Police Jury holds its public hearing Tuesday, Sept. 2 at 9 a.m. at the Bossier Parish Courthouse in Benton on Ordinance No. 5127 — a proposal that would criminalize the use of parish-owned restrooms, locker rooms, and changing facilities that do not correspond with a person’s biological sex assigned at birth. Opposition is growing ahead of the hearing. The ACLU of Louisiana has challenged the introduction process, contending the Police Jury violated the state’s Open Meetings Law. A letter signed by 22 organizations and 277 individuals from across Louisiana urges the jury to reject the measure. Louisiana Trans Advocates and a transgender couple who say they were assaulted at Cypress Black Bayou Park in Bossier City in May — and subsequently arrested — are also expected to be present. The ordinance was requested by the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, which said it would give deputies an enforcement tool under a 2024 state law. Penalties range from a $250 fine for a first offense to up to six months in jail for repeated violations.

Two Bossier City Men Sentenced to Federal Prison After Neighbor Called in Complaint

Two Bossier City men received federal prison sentences in a case that began when a neighbor called police to complain about loud music, drug use, and disorderly conduct. Melvin Lee Johnson, 23, and Jarrod De’Angelo Stith, 23, were sentenced Aug. 20 in connection with a May 2025 arrest. When Bossier City Police responded to the complaint, officers observed several people near a black Nissan SUV. Their investigation led to federal drug trafficking and illegal firearms charges. Both men were sentenced in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Louisiana.

Shreveport Political Analyst Arrested on Felony Domestic Abuse Charges

A Shreveport-based political analyst has been arrested on felony domestic abuse charges following a Shreveport Police Department investigation. Additional details on the identity of the suspect and specific charges are expected from the Shreveport Police Department as the case moves through the courts.

Bossier Parish Powerball Player Wins $150,000 at Barksdale Stop N Go

A Bossier City Powerball player is $150,000 richer after purchasing or claiming a winning ticket at the Barksdale Stop N Go at 5412 Barksdale Blvd. The Louisiana Lottery confirmed the winning ticket from the Saturday Powerball drawing. The winner has not been publicly identified.

The Louisiana Department of Education announced the 14 educators who will begin a new term on the Teachers Advisory Council.

Among the educators selected is Monica Speyrer of Caddo Parish School System and C.E. Byrd High.

The group of educators from across Louisiana meets with Louisiana State Superintendent of Education Dr. Cade Brumley and other state leaders to share feedback on education initiatives and issues impacting classrooms.

The following teachers will begin a new term when the council begins meeting during the 2026-2027 school year:

Angela Barfoot | Ouachita Parish Schools | Highland Elementary

Courtney Berthelot | St. Charles Parish Public School System | Destrehan High

Alisha Butler | Louisiana School for the Visually Impaired

Renee Fields | Assumption Parish School System | Assumption High

Breann Lavergne | Calcasieu Parish School System | Dolby Elementary

Mayria Ledet | St. Landry Parish School System | East Elementary

Amy Legendre | Tangipahoa Parish School System | Ponchatoula High

Brianne Loupe | Livingston Parish School System | Denham Springs Junior High

Savannah Richards | Concordia Parish School System | Vidalia Lower Elementary

Mindy Rose | University View Academy

Katherine Scott | West Baton Rouge Parish School System | Brusly Middle

Monica Speyrer | Caddo Parish School System | C.E. Byrd High

Cassidy Tackett | Caldwell Parish School District | Union Central Elementary

Nicolas Williams | DeSoto Parish School System | Mansfield Middle

Teachers Advisory Council members serve four-year terms. The LDOE launched a public application for open seats on the council in May.

Dr. Brumley created the Teachers Advisory Council in response to Senate Concurrent Resolution 33 (2022) to enhance teacher voice and gather educator feedback on current education initiatives and how Louisiana can continue to improve student outcomes.

The council meets with state leaders on a quarterly basis to discuss issues, laws, rules and policies affecting teachers and students. The council has provided feedback on topics including Let Teachers Teach, math, literacy, attendance, accountability, and teacher recruitment and retention.

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The Bossier City Fire Department celebrated its newest recruits with a special lunch at the Bossier City Fire Training Center.

The recruits have been working through the training and dedication required to serve and protect the community. They are now weeks away from taking the next step and officially becoming firefighters.

Graduation Day is September 11.

The Bossier City Fire Department said it is proud of the recruits and looks forward to welcoming them to the department.

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It was a night De’Aumante Johnson will never forget but he’s hoping his Southwood Cowboys can put it behind them and look forward, not backward.

On September 11 last year – in his first game as their head coach – the Cowboys did something they hadn’t “officially” done since 2019: Win a football game.

There was a big celebration, a Gatorade bucket, a few tears of joy and all the other memorable moments you might expect.

As if to prove it wasn’t a fluke, the Cowboys turned around the next week and did it again. So much for a victory hangover.

A few weeks later, Southwood did it again.

No, it wasn’t a total rags-to-riches story as the Cowboys finished 3-6 overall. The last four games were particularly ugly as they lost each one of them by at least 40 points.

Johnson’s goal has been to keep future wins from being such a joyous celebration.

“Winning has to be a habit,” he says. “I’m not saying don’t celebrate it or enjoy it. At the end of the day, it’s still a win and that’s what we play for. But we have to have a 24-hour mindset, and we have to get ready for our next opponent.”

Johnson is hoping that last year becomes an important first step in what the former Bossier coach and Grambling State assistant is trying to accomplish. But if those steps are going to be taken, it will have to come from eliminating one key issue that plagued the Cowboys in 2025.

Turnovers.

“That’s going to be really big,” Johnson says. “We have to keep the chains moving. We have to keep momentum. We cannot turn the ball over, and that’s something that we talked about this whole entire off-season and spring.

“It’s something that Toriano Williams, who’s the new offensive coordinator, talks about to these guys. We have to protect the ball on offense. And these guys have been doing a tremendous job this off-season and rolling into fall camp of not turning the ball over.”

But much of that could depend on players who will never touch the ball.

Part of the optimism for the Cowboys comes from the experience that returns from last year. “The offensive line is going to be the biggest difference,” Johnson says. “They’re very selfless. They’ve been playing with each other since last year. A lot of snaps under their belts. So that unit right there, they’re going to carry this team for sure.”

In scheduling his non-district games, Johnson relied on some of his previous coaching relationships to get his team prepared for the District 1-4A season. The Cowboys will play Green Oaks, Haughton and Wossman before jumping into district play.

“It wasn’t it really wasn’t too difficult for me,” he says. “Just having a great relationship with coaches helped out. Matthew Sewell at Haughton and I are best of friends. I’m great with the coach at Wossman. The Green Oaks coach (Nick Peoples) and I played together at Grambling. So scheduling is very easy for me because I have such a great relationship with these guys.”

Contact JJ at johnjamesmarshall@yahoo.com

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