Drug Arrests made by Sheriff’s Department January 30, 2021 Evangeline Parish Sheriff Charles Guillory reported to KVPI News the following drug arrests: On Thursday January 28 the sheriff’s department criminal patrol unit was working in the Lone Pine-Blood Bend area of the parish. The following suspects were arrested: Heather Lea Taylor age 23 of St. Landry was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia; Brad Otis Hernandez age 46 of Bunkie charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia and Hebert Wayne Prather age 47 of St. Landry arrested on six outstanding warrants and Dennis Randall Book age 44 of St. Landry charged with possession of methamphetamine. In other case on Friday the sheriff’s office detective division went to execute an arrest warrant on a subject. When deputies announced their presence, the subject took off running on foot. The subject was captured and charged as follows: Tyrese Hebert age 22 of Ville Platte charged with :Domestic Abuse of a Dating Partner, Criminal damage to property, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of drug paraphernalia and resisting an officer. Deputies recovered over 22 grams of marijuana and over $1600 in US currency. As always Sheriff Guillory and the sheriff’s office is always seeking information on criminal activity and urges the public to contact their investigation department at 363-2161.

Mamou Police Chief Brent Zackery announced today that in conjunction with the Town of Mamou, the Mamou Police Department has acquired a K-9 Officer. Phoenix is a three year old female Belgian Malinois, which has been formally trained for drug detection, attack and search and rescue. Handlers, Chief Zackery and Assistant Chief Drew Fruge have trained and received certifications to handle Officer Phoneix from LA K-9. Phoenix is now formally on duty and ready to get to work. Chief Zackery added a special thank you to Walmart Distribution Center for a grant and to Green Mule Services,LLC for its donation which helped in the purchase and training of the newest member of the Mamou Police Department. Pictured is Chief Brent Zackery, Phoenix and Assistant Chief Drew Fruge.

On January 26th, 2021 Pine Prairie Police was notified by Pine Prairie Elementary School about a possible Child abuse incident that occurred at 1516 Ash Street in Pine Prairie. Upon investigation Police found a 6 year old male juvenile was being abused by his mother. Due to the injuries on the child, the Department of Children and Family Services was contacted and a joint investigation into this matter was conducted by DCFS and Pine Prairie Police. Once the investigation was completed by both agencies, the mother, Alysha Brook Rodriguez of Pine Prairie was arrested for Domestic Abuse Battery by Strangulation and Cruelty to a Juvenile. Rodriguez was booked into the Evangeline Parish Jail on said charges signed by Judge Ortego. Chief Deshotel wants to remind the public, if you see something say something. You can report any suspicious activity to his office by calling 337-599-2708 or if it is an emergency then dial 911.

Sheriff Arrests January 27, 2021 Evangeline Parish Sheriff Charles Guillory reported to KVPI News the following arrests: Last Thursday, January 21, The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department in conjunction with the Mamou Police Department conducted an investigation into illegal drug sales at 1021 East Street in Mamou. When deputies arrived, the suspect attempted to flee the scene. Deputies were able to detain him and two female suspects. The following arrests were made following a search: Shelton Treymone Robinson age 36 of 1021 East Street Mamou, Abigail Elizabeth Smith age 20 of 2453 7th , Mamou and Courtney Renee Doucet age 20 of 1431 Huey Road, Mamou..all three were charged with possession with intent to distribute Heroin, possession of Methamphetamine, possession of synthetic marijuana, possession of schedule two pills and possession of drug paraphernalia. In other action, last Tuesday January 19, the sheriff's department criminal patrol unit conducted a traffic on a vehicle driven by Robert J. Dupre in Pine Prairie. The driver showed signs of extreme nervousness. After receiving permission to search the vehicle, the deputy located narcotics. The suspect was identified as Robert J. Dupre age 62 of 1519 Pecan Street, Pine Prairie charged with possession of Methamphetamine, possession of Temazepam, possession of Diazepam and possession of drug paraphernalia. Also on January 19, deputies stopped a truck on Shuff road for a traffic violation. Deputies smelled marijuana in the vehicle. The K-9 Drug dog, Diego was called in. Arrested was Christopher Sanchez Thomas age 35 of 1852 Rider Road, Ville Platte charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Sheriff Guillory and the sheriff's office is always seeking information on criminal activity and urges the public to contact their investigations unit at 363-2161.

Ville Platte Rotary Club January 26, 2021 Evangeline Parish Registrar of Voters Lucas Buller and Clerk of Court Randy Deshotel were the guest speakers at today's (Tuesday) meeting of the Ville Platte Rotary Club Meeting. Buller and Deshotel discussed the recent elections and what's coming up in the election calendar in Evangeline Parish. There are 22,009 registered voters with 10,200 Democratic voters and 7254 registered as Republican. The other 4500 voters are independent or no party. It was announced that the next election is on March 20 where the Pine Prairie and Lone Pine fire districts will have a fire tax renewal. The police jury has also called for three cemetery tax renewals. Due to Covid 19, Louisiana voters were given additional days and longer hours to vote early. The recent Presidential election had a 70 percent voter turnout in Evangeline Parish compared to around 40 percent for an average local election. It was reported the large number of people who have registered as Republican in the past four years while Trump was president. There were some 3254 Republican voters when Trump became president and currently there are 7254. Clerk of Court Randy Deshotel reported to club members that his day on Election day begins at 5:00am when he travels to visit all 56 voting precincts in the parish. He is back in the office by 4;00pm with the Board of Election Supervisors as they certify all of the Early votes and they are sequestered until the polls close at 8:00pm. Both speakers were the guests of Rotarian Kip Manuel. In other rotary club news, Renee Brown reported that the downtown clean up day was a big success last weekend. Volunteers helped clean the store front in front of the Wyble Collection. Still to come, will be clean up efforts at the Care and Share Center and at Ardoin Salvage Store. The project is a joint effort of the Evangeline Parish Chamber of Commerce and the Acosta Foundation.

2021 Evangeline Parish Students of the Year January 21, 2021 In an interview with Interim Elementary Supervisor Cherie Fontenot recorded today at KVPI Studios, the names of this year's students of the year at each parish school were announced along with those who were honored at the District level. Here are the school winners for Students of the Year: Landon Papillion for Firth Grade and Josie McDaniel for the 8th grade; James Stephens Montessori-Estella Thomas, 5th Grade winner; Ville Platte Elementary -Alexis Keirra Dunn, 5th Grade Winner; Vidrine Elementary- Rylee Guillory, 5th grade winner, Julie Mable 8th grade winner; Bayou Chicot Elementary- Cain Davis, 5th Grade Winner and Evelyn Grace Holsomback,8th Grade Winner; Ville Platte High Prisha Makey, 8th Grade Winner and Jade Alfred, 12th Grade Winner; Mamou High School -Collin Aguillard, 5th Grade Winner, Jaidan Richard, 8th Grade Winner and Desataya Tezeno, 12th Grade Winner; Pine Prairie High- Kamryn West, 12th Grade Winner; Basile High School- Abigail Butts, 5th Grade Winner, Jackson Courville 8th Grade Winner and Jose Palacios 12th Grade Winner. In the Work Based Learning program- Justin Gulley, 11th Grade student at Mamou High; JAG Program at Ville Platte High-Branson Fontenot and the JAG Program at Bayou Chicot Elementary-Gage Ardoin. The District Wide Winners are: 5th Grade- Landon Papillion from Chataignier Elementary; 8th Grade -Jackson Courville from Basile High School and 12th Grade winner is Kamryn West from Pine Prairie High School. These three winners will advance and compete at the regional level. Students must have a cumulative grade point average of 3.1 on a 4.0 scale. The student must be in good standing in matters of discipline and attendance. The student should be on that demonstrates leadership and citizenship. The student should be able to speak and write well. They will be interviewed and will be asked to compose and submit an autobiographical sketch. You can hear the interview with Cherie Fontenot Friday at 12:30 on KVPI. KVPI is making plans to interview the three District Student of the Year winners.

Evangeline Parish Sheriff Charles Guillory reported to KVPI News his deputies arrested three suspects on drug charges last Thursday night January 14 after executing a search warrant at a home on Chicot Park Road. The sheriff said the arrest warrant stems from several complaints and several months of surveillance. The suspects were identified as Corey Hebert age 44 of 1869 Chicot Park Road and Mary Alaina Lee age 29 of the same address. The two were each charged with Possession with intent to distribute heroin, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a minor, possession of a firearm in the presence of controlled dangerous substances and possession of drug paraphernalia. Also, the two were charged with failure to appear in court. Corey Hebert is also wanted in Allen parish on other charges. The third suspect was identified as Megan Cummings age 26 of 208 Johnny Street, Ville Platte. She was charged with possession with intent to distribute 9.8 grams of methamphetamine and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a minor. Deputies seized over 175 grams of methamphetamine, 41.66 grams of heroin, two handguns and over $8,000 in cash. As always, Sheriff Guillory urges the general public to continue contacting his investigations department to report any criminal activity at 337-363-2161.

Ville Platte Rotary Club meeting January 19, 2021 The Ville Platte Rotary Club today (Tuesday) heard from guest speaker, Tobin Deville, executive director of the Evangeline Parish Chamber of Commerce. He spoke about his early radio career at KVPI, his move to Boise, Idaho and later his work in leadership training to groups. Deville reminded club members about the "Refresh, Rebuild and Reconnect" kickoff Saturday to help cleanup downtown Ville Platte. Volunteers are asked to meet for the project beginning at 8:30am. He announced that a number of businesses have joined in the effort including the Wyble Collection, Care and Share Center and Ardoin Salvage. Deville also touched on a number of subjects including improving customer service. He was the special guest of Rotarian Bob Manuel.

Evangeline Parish 4-H Jr. Market Animal Sale and Show January 16, 2020 The 2021 Evangeline Parish 4-H Jr. Market Animal Show and Sale ended today (Saturday) at the Chauncey Pitre Ag Arena. The weather was perfect with a cool northerly breeze. One of the highlights at the start of the annual sale was the auctioning off of a 4-H cake donated by Police Juror Keith Saucier. The pineapple and chocolate cake was sold and put back on the auction block six times raising some $2350 total for the 4-H club in the parish. Sheriff Charles Guillory was the last successful bidder and he asked the cake be divided to offer slices for everyone in attendance. Keith Saucier is continuing the tradition that began with his late mother, Frenella Saucier who baked a special cake each year for 31 years. Her cakes raised over $30,000 through the years. Once again, the auctioneer for the animal sale was Col. Ricky Duhon of Basile who has been donating his services for many years. His young assistant was Jose Deshotel. The KVPI road crew, Mike P:erron and Mark Layne, were there doing live reports and talking with 4-H Agent Kim Deville, Sheriff Charles Guillory and others. We also covered the first hour of the auction for friends and family members who could not attend. Most of those who showed their animals in the parish show will advance and compete in the District Show in Lake Charles the week of February 1. The state livestock show is scheduled for the week of February 15. KVPI will be getting special reports at both of the District and State shows. Here are some of the grand champion winners: Olivia Soileau, the daughter of Gabe and Caroline Soileau with the grand champion hog; Greg Zaunbrecher of Basile, the son of Mark and Melissa Zaunbrecher with the grand champion Lamb; Dane Fontenot, son of Neal and Shelly Fontenot with the grand champion goat and Samantha Vidrine of Ville Platte High , daughter of Dustin and Kristie Vidrine with the Grand Champion Broiler.

Ville Platte – Evangeline Parish Investigators are releasing the photo of a person of interest involved in a Robbery/Battery being investigated from last Thursday night. Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Deputies were called out to the 100th Block of Burkley Street in Ville Platte for a Robbery/Battery at approximately 9:30 p.m. January 7, 2021. The victim was robbed of cash money and drugged with the suspect's vehicle for a short distance before being able to set himself free. The victim suffered injuries to his lower back, right and left shoulder blades, and his left hand. This person of interest has not been identified by name, but is known to the victim as D-man. Investigators are seeking assistance from the public in identifying the person in the photo. Investigators would like to speak with this person in regards to this incident. He is known to be armed. KVPI News has posted the photo on our website and social sites. If anyone has any information on the person in the photo name, address, whereabouts etc.; please contact the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Investigations Division at 337-363-2161.

Drug Arrests January 12, 2021 Evangeline Parish Sheriff Charles Guillory reported to KVPI news the following drug arrests: On Tuesday, January 12, the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office K-9 Unit stopped a vehicle for a traffic violation. When deputies approached the vehicle, they could smell marijuana. They deployed the drug dog, Diego, who gave several positive alerts. The vehicle was searched and narcotics was found. The driver was identified as Jerry Mitchell Dupre age 30 of Mamou. He was charged with Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Marijuana and Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Also on January 12, the K-9 Unit stopped a different vehicle. While speaking to the driver, there were indications of possible narcotics in the vehicle. The deputy deployed the drug dog, Diego, who gave positive alerts. This led to the following arrests: Vashawnty Kelly Thomas age 22 of Ville Platte charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of a dangerous substance, possession of a firearm by a felon, possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a minor and proper equipment required. Also arrested was Corian Anthony Burkett age 20 of Ville Platte charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance, and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in the presence of a minor. On Monday, January 11 the sheriff's department criminal patrol unit stopped a car for a traffic violation. When deputies approached the car, they see the subjects smoking a cigarette laced with PCP. The passenger in the car became very combative with deputies The following subjects were arrested by sheriff's deputies: Corey Griffin age 44 Ville Platte charged with Possession of PCP, Resisting an Officer and Improper Lane Usage and Shamus Hilton LeDay age 42 of Ville Platte charged with Possession of PCP and four counts of Resisting an Officer with force and Violence. In another case on Monday January 11, deputies with the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department conducted a search warrant on a residence at 410 North Latour in Ville Platte. Deputies located PCP, marijuana and a handgun. The following subject was arrested: Herman Soileau age 35 of 410 North Latour Street, Ville Platte. He was charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession with Intent to distribute PCP, Possession of Alprazolam, Possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance and Possession of drug paraphernalia. Sheriff Charles Guillory and the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office is always seeking information on criminal activity and urges the public to contact the Investigations Department at 363-2161.

Ville Platte City Council Meeting January 12, 2021 The Ville Platte City Council, Tuesday, received news that a compromise was reached between Mayor Jennifer Vidrine and Fr. Mitchel Guidry, pastor of Our Lady Queen of All Saints on the annual Walk for Life. Each year, local and area Christians participate in the annual Walk for Life to stand up for the unborn. The walk begins at Our Lady Queen of All Saints and ends at Sacred Heart Church. Fr. Guidry announced that Police Chief Neal Lartigue gave approval for the march. However, the mayor turned down the march because of concerns over Covid-19 and for the safety of those in the walk. Fr. Guidry said a compromise was reached by moving the walk entirely on the Sacred Heart Church grounds on Sunday January 24. Mayor Jennifer Vidrine said her decision against the march had nothing to do with religion or politics but strictly on the health and safety of the walkers. She told Fr. Guidry that she will participate at the new march site. Fr. Guidry said "We are pro life in Ville Platte and we believe in the dignity of human life. The mayor and I just sat down and talked and came to an agreement." The city council was advised by Mayor Vidrine that the following streets are scheduled for improvements: St. Marie, McArthur, Edward Notto, Demoruelle, Dr. Carver, , Martin Luther King, Northeast Railroad,, Southeast Railroad, Jack Milller, Demoncheveaux, Fuselier, Reed, East Washington, West Desoto, Magnolia and Hickory Streets. The road work includes new construction, rebuilding, patching and overlay using grant money and local funds. Mayor Jennifer Vidrine announced that Dirk Deville was appointed as the new City Chief Administrative Officer. Deville served local residents as Tax Assessor and State Representative. The Mayor reported that the city has received 75 applicants for a new city payroll clerk and 22 applicants for a city accountant. For the first time ever, the city council witnessed the pinning of a new fire fighter. Daniel Andrus was sworn in as a new full time paid firefighter, Daniel Andrus who just completed fire fighter training. He was given his firefighter pin by his mother. The city council also approved hiring a new firefighter, Dennis Scott from Eunice. Fire Chief Chris Soileau reported that the number of fire calls dropped by 30 over the same time a year ago from 252 calls compared to 280 a year ago. Also, the council approved a quote to purchase a new back hoe for the street department at a cost of $99,136. Also, the council appointed two new patrol officers: Josh Estes and Zack Kelly and Ashley Smith as a part timer jailer for the police department. Police Chief Neal Lartigue reported that for the year 2020, there were 3745 police calls, 1788 misdemeanor arrests and 172 felony arrests, 250 citations and police worked 329 traffic accidents. The council voted to apply for $50,000 in a state grant to fund a new welcome entrance to the city including lighting and a fountain.

Rotary Club Meeting January 12, 2021 The Ville Platte Rotary Club today (Tuesday)heard from District 6200 Governor Yvonne Norman of Opelousas. She invited club members to make plans to attend the annual District Conference scheduled for April 15-17 in Opelousas at the Civic Center. One of the highlights of the annual event is the food fest which will be held at the "Vieux Village" welcome area. Club members can either attend in person or attend online in a virtual setting. She urged the Ville Platte club to consider beginning a satellite club of club members that meet at a different time. She suggested the second club could be made up of teachers or medical personnel who because of their professions could not attend the noon meeting. She reported that a satellite club could begin with at least eight people. Governor Norman complimented the Ville Platte club for sponsoring two Interact clubs meeting at Sacred Heart and Ville Platte High Schools. She suggested beginning a Roteract Club for young professionals age 18 and older.

Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department reports new drug arrests January 7, 2020 Evangeline Parish Sheriff Charles Guillory reported to KVPI News on additional drug arrests through his criminal patrol unit. Sheriff Guillory reported five suspects were arrested following a two month long undercover drug buy operation that was conducted in the parish. The following suspects were arrested on December 30: Holly Renee Dupre age 42 of 8032 Veterans Memorial Highway and charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine, two warrants for failure to report for court; John Neal Duplechain age 49 of Ville Platte was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia; Timothy James Vidrine age 31 2055 West Main, Ville Platte charged with possession with intent to distribute Methamphetamine, resisting an officer with force (Three counts), possession of synthetic marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia; Virginia Poullard, age 55 of Ville Platte was charged with distribution of crack cocaine and Thomas Brock Thrasher age 26 of 7859 Veteran Memorial Highway charged with possession of marijuana and four outstanding warrants on other charges. On Tuesday January 5, another arrest was made in connection with the two month undercover drug operation. The sheriff identified the subject as Jody J. Brasseeaux age 52 of Ville Platte and was charged with distribution of methamphetamine. Also arrested on Wednesday January 6, sheriff's deputies and Mamou Police executed two search warrants: Marc Clint Mayer age 46 of Washington charged with distribution of methamphetamine and Jauwon Freeman age 19 of Mamou charged with distribution of methamphetamine and distribution of marijuana. These arrests are from a joint operation conducted from the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department and Mamou Police Department to rid the parish of illegal drugs. On Tuesday January 5, a sheriff's deputy made a routine traffic stop. While speaking to the driver, the deputy could smell a strong odor of marijuana from the vehicle. The deputy received permission to search the vehicle. The deputy recovered marijuana, a handgun and drug paraphernalia. The subject was identified as Jessie Cole Rider age 36 of Ville Platte and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. On Tuesday January 5 the sheriff department criminal patrol unit conducted a search warrant of a residence at 402 Court Street. Deputies located a large amount of crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, guns and illegal US currency from drug sales. The suspect was identified as Roderic Darone Thomas age 30 of Ville Platte. He was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of Controlled Dangerous Substances and possession of a firearm by a felon. Criminal Patrol Agents sized 11.5 ounces of high grade methamphetamine, marijuana, two shotguns and over $2400 in US currency. On January 2, sheriff's deputies received information about narcotics sales from a residence in the Basile area. Deputies executed a search warrant on a residence at 2456 Guillory Street in Basile. The subject was identified as Ray Charles Landry age 67 of Basile and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in presence of minor. Last Saturday January 2, deputies were patrolling in the Basile area when they observed two male subjects passing a hand lit rolled ciagarette. Arrested was Thomas Lopez age 64 of Basile and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Also in Basile, deputies stopped a male subject on a bicycle who appeared to be very nervous. Deputies located two bags of crystal meth and a smoking pipe. The subject was identified as Eric James Melton age 45 of Basile charged with possession of marijuana and cited for traffic laws for bicycle riders; Finally, the sheriff told KVPI News that a Pine Prairie man was arrested following a search warrant on his home at 1818 Fourth Street on December 21. During a search, deputies located a stolen four wheeler, a Marlin 22 rifle with an illegal suppressor, an AK 47 rifle and drug paraphernalia. Deputies arrested Kylan Wayne Ardoin age 28 of Pine Prairie charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a stolen four wheeler and possession of illegal suppressor. The sheriff said this marks the 100th drug arrest since July 1. As always the sheriff and his deputies are always seeking information on criminal activity and urges the public to contact the investigations unit at 363-2161.

Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department reports new drug arrests January 7, 2020 Evangeline Parish Sheriff Charles Guillory reported to KVPI News on additional drug arrests through his criminal patrol unit. Sheriff Guillory reported five suspects were arrested following a two month long undercover drug buy operation that was conducted in the parish. The following suspects were arrested on December 30: Holly Renee Dupre age 42 of 8032 Veterans Memorial Highway and charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine, two warrants for failure to report for court; John Neal Duplechain age 49 of Ville Platte was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia; Timothy James Vidrine age 31 2055 West Main, Ville Platte charged with possession with intent to distribute Methamphetamine, resisting an officer with force (Three counts), possession of synthetic marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia; Virginia Poullard, age 55 of Ville Platte was charged with distribution of crack cocaine and Thomas Brock Thrasher age 26 of 7859 Veteran Memorial Highway charged with possession of marijuana and four outstanding warrants on other charges. On Tuesday January 5, another arrest was made in connection with the two month undercover drug operation. The sheriff identified the subject as Jody J. Brasseeaux age 52 of Ville Platte and was charged with distribution of methamphetamine. Also arrested on Wednesday January 6, sheriff's deputies and Mamou Police executed two search warrants: Marc Clint Mayer age 46 of Washington charged with distribution of methamphetamine and Jauwon Freeman age 19 of Mamou charged with distribution of methamphetamine and distribution of marijuana. These arrests are from a joint operation conducted from the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department and Mamou Police Department to rid the parish of illegal drugs. On Tuesday January 5, a sheriff's deputy made a routine traffic stop. While speaking to the driver, the deputy could smell a strong odor of marijuana from the vehicle. The deputy received permission to search the vehicle. The deputy recovered marijuana, a handgun and drug paraphernalia. The subject was identified as Jessie Cole Rider age 36 of Ville Platte and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. On Tuesday January 5 the sheriff department criminal patrol unit conducted a search warrant of a residence at 402 Court Street. Deputies located a large amount of crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, guns and illegal US currency from drug sales. The suspect was identified as Roderic Darone Thomas age 30 of Ville Platte. He was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of Controlled Dangerous Substances and possession of a firearm by a felon. Criminal Patrol Agents sized 11.5 ounces of high grade methamphetamine, marijuana, two shotguns and over $2400 in US currency. On January 2, sheriff's deputies received information about narcotics sales from a residence in the Basile area. Deputies executed a search warrant on a residence at 2456 Guillory Street in Basile. The subject was identified as Ray Charles Landry age 67 of Basile and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in presence of minor. Last Saturday January 2, deputies were patrolling in the Basile area when they observed two male subjects passing a hand lit rolled ciagarette. Arrested was Thomas Lopez age 64 of Basile and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Also in Basile, deputies stopped a male subject on a bicycle who appeared to be very nervous. Deputies located two bags of crystal meth and a smoking pipe. The subject was identified as Eric James Melton age 45 of Basile charged with possession of marijuana and cited for traffic laws for bicycle riders; Finally, the sheriff told KVPI News that a Pine Prairie man was arrested following a search warrant on his home at 1818 Fourth Street on December 21. During a search, deputies located a stolen four wheeler, a Marlin 22 rifle with an illegal suppressor, an AK 47 rifle and drug paraphernalia. Deputies arrested Kylan Wayne Ardoin age 28 of Pine Prairie charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a stolen four wheeler and possession of illegal suppressor. The sheriff said this marks the 100th drug arrest since July 1. As always the sheriff and his deputies are always seeking information on criminal activity and urges the public to contact the investigations unit at 363-2161.

Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department reports new drug arrests January 7, 2020 Evangeline Parish Sheriff Charles Guillory reported to KVPI News on additional drug arrests through his criminal patrol unit. Sheriff Guillory reported five suspects were arrested following a two month long undercover drug buy operation that was conducted in the parish. The following suspects were arrested on December 30: Holly Renee Dupre age 42 of 8032 Veterans Memorial Highway and charged with Distribution of Methamphetamine, two warrants for failure to report for court; John Neal Duplechain age 49 of Ville Platte was charged with possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia; Timothy James Vidrine age 31 2055 West Main, Ville Platte charged with possession with intent to distribute Methamphetamine, resisting an officer with force (Three counts), possession of synthetic marijuana and possession of drug paraphernalia; Virginia Poullard, age 55 of Ville Platte was charged with distribution of crack cocaine and Thomas Brock Thrasher age 26 of 7859 Veteran Memorial Highway charged with possession of marijuana and four outstanding warrants on other charges. On Tuesday January 5, another arrest was made in connection with the two month undercover drug operation. The sheriff identified the subject as Jody J. Brasseeaux age 52 of Ville Platte and was charged with distribution of methamphetamine. Also arrested on Wednesday January 6, sheriff's deputies and Mamou Police executed two search warrants: Marc Clint Mayer age 46 of Washington charged with distribution of methamphetamine and Jauwon Freeman age 19 of Mamou charged with distribution of methamphetamine and distribution of marijuana. These arrests are from a joint operation conducted from the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Department and Mamou Police Department to rid the parish of illegal drugs. On Tuesday January 5, a sheriff's deputy made a routine traffic stop. While speaking to the driver, the deputy could smell a strong odor of marijuana from the vehicle. The deputy received permission to search the vehicle. The deputy recovered marijuana, a handgun and drug paraphernalia. The subject was identified as Jessie Cole Rider age 36 of Ville Platte and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance and possession of drug paraphernalia. On Tuesday January 5 the sheriff department criminal patrol unit conducted a search warrant of a residence at 402 Court Street. Deputies located a large amount of crystal methamphetamine, marijuana, guns and illegal US currency from drug sales. The suspect was identified as Roderic Darone Thomas age 30 of Ville Platte. He was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Possession of marijuana, possession of a firearm in the presence of Controlled Dangerous Substances and possession of a firearm by a felon. Criminal Patrol Agents sized 11.5 ounces of high grade methamphetamine, marijuana, two shotguns and over $2400 in US currency. On January 2, sheriff's deputies received information about narcotics sales from a residence in the Basile area. Deputies executed a search warrant on a residence at 2456 Guillory Street in Basile. The subject was identified as Ray Charles Landry age 67 of Basile and charged with possession of methamphetamine, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a controlled dangerous substance in presence of minor. Last Saturday January 2, deputies were patrolling in the Basile area when they observed two male subjects passing a hand lit rolled ciagarette. Arrested was Thomas Lopez age 64 of Basile and charged with possession of marijuana, possession of methamphetamine and possession of drug paraphernalia. Also in Basile, deputies stopped a male subject on a bicycle who appeared to be very nervous. Deputies located two bags of crystal meth and a smoking pipe. The subject was identified as Eric James Melton age 45 of Basile charged with possession of marijuana and cited for traffic laws for bicycle riders; Finally, the sheriff told KVPI News that a Pine Prairie man was arrested following a search warrant on his home at 1818 Fourth Street on December 21. During a search, deputies located a stolen four wheeler, a Marlin 22 rifle with an illegal suppressor, an AK 47 rifle and drug paraphernalia. Deputies arrested Kylan Wayne Ardoin age 28 of Pine Prairie charged with possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of a stolen four wheeler and possession of illegal suppressor. The sheriff said this marks the 100th drug arrest since July 1. As always the sheriff and his deputies are always seeking information on criminal activity and urges the public to contact the investigations unit at 363-2161.

Ville Platte Mayor Jennifer Vidrine released the following news release to KVPI News. "Starting tomorrow we will be turning off delinquent utility bills. Due to Covid 19 we have not turned utility bills off. We will start tomorrow. You can pay on line, drop box, drive thru or in person in city hall. Call me if you have any questions."

VILLE PLATTE, LA – The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office needs the public assistance in locating a missing person. On Monday, January 4, 2021 reporting person (Rebecca Robertson) reported her daughter Alicia Denise Robertson (DOB 08-05-1981) as missing. She last seen her daughter at their residence (1066 John F Kennedy St Ville Platte, LA) at approximately 7:00 a.m. that morning. Alicia Robertson was headed to her place of employment at 1009 W. Lincoln Street Ville Platte, LA (Unlimited Health Care). She appeared to have been in a calm mood. She was wearing her work uniform, black medical scrubs. Alicia D Robertson (DOB 8-5-1981) is described as a black female, approximately 5'2 in height, weighs approximately 250 lbs., black hair, brown eyes with a fair skin tone. She drives a 2015 red Nissan Altima bearing Louisiana License Plate #ZUS820. The vehicle windows are lightly tinted. A photo of Alicia has been included below. If anyone has any information or comes into contact with Alicia D. Robertson is asked to contact the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office Investigations Division at 337-363-2161.

VILLE PLATTE, LA – The Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office needs the public assistance in locating a missing person. On Monday, January 4, 2021 reporting person (Rebecca Robertson) reported her daughter Alicia Denise Robertson (DOB 08-05-1981) as missing. She last seen her daughter at their residence (1066 John F Kennedy St Ville Platte, LA) at approximately 7:00 a.m. that morning. Alicia Robertson was headed to her place of employment at 1009 W. Lincoln Street Ville Platte, LA (Unlimited Health Care). She appeared to have been in a calm mood. She was wearing her work uniform, black medical scrubs. Alicia D Robertson (DOB 8-5-1981) is described as a black female, approximately 5'2 in height, weighs approximately 250 lbs., black hair, brown eyes with a fair skin tone. She drives a 2015 red Nissan Altima bearing Louisiana License Plate #ZUS820. The vehicle windows are lightly tinted. A photo of Alicia has been included below. If anyone has any information or comes into contact with Alicia D. Robertson is asked to contact the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office Investigations Division at 337-363-2161.

Pine Prairie Police Chief L.C. Deshotel released the following news story to KVPI: On Monday December 28th, 2020 Pine Prairie Police received a complaint of an ATV riding around Archie Chapman Road near the Ball Park. A citizen heard the ATV and went to see. He noticed 2 male juveniles on the ATV around 2 a.m. and followed the subjects where the juveniles attempted to hide the ATV in the wooded area behind the Community Center. With the assistance of the Evangeline Parish Sheriff's Office, the owner was located and it was determined that it had just been stolen within the hour. The ATV was returned to the owner undamaged. Later during the morning, 2 bicycles were also discovered stolen but recovered from a residence on Railroad Street. It was also learned that a golf cart was tampered with where it appears that someone attempted to take it out of a yard on Walnut Street. Through investigation, video surveillance was recovered of the incidents and 3 male juveniles were identified. Contact was made with the parents of one of the juveniles where he was brought in and charged for the incidents, released to the custody of his parents and the file will be sent over to the Evangeline Parish District Attorney's Office. The two other suspects will be charged with the incidents pending contact with the parents. Chief Deshotel wants to remind the public to report any and all suspicious activity to the Pine Prairie Police Department.