Former St. Tammany Parish District Attorney Walter Reed’s corruption trial begins today. Halen Doughty reports the longtime DA faces 19 criminal counts..:
CUT 1 (28) “I’m Halen Doughty”

State Police Col Mike Edmonson wrote a letter to the lawyer of the man accused in the shooting and killing of former Saints player Will Smith, saying they will not take over the murder investigation. John Fuller, attorney for 28-year-old Cardell Hayes, made the request of state police. Edmonson says he’s confident city police can conduct an objective and professional investigation. Smith was allegedly gunned down by Hayes last weekend in what police call a road-rage incident.

One of Louisiana’s longest-living citizens and retired police officer died in a house fire in Ville Platte, according to the state Fire Marshal’s Office. They say investigators continue to piece together what could have started the blaze that claimed the life of 106-year-old Edward “Knotoe” Thomas Jr. The victim was home alone when the fire apparently broke out Saturday in the attic. Thomas is survived by five of his 10 children, 37 grandchildren, 74 great grandchildren and 56 great great grandchildren.

St. Joseph residents are seeking help from the state about their water, which has been yellow to dark brown for years. They went before the House Natural Resources Committee and gave emotional testimony. Rev. Dr. Samuel Johnson says the water is causing health issues in the small Tensas Parish town…:
CUT 7 (11) “entire town”
They want the state to intervene in the water problems.