After serving nearly 45 years in prison, Vincent Simmons is going home. Simmons, who is Black, was convicted of the attempted aggravated rape of 14-year-old white twin sisters in 1977. Avoyelles Parish District Attorney Charlie Riddle says with today’s sentencing guidelines it would reduce the 100-year sentence against Simmons, and it’s time to move on.
Cut 12 (11) “…can be released.”
A recent ruling says key evidence was not shared with the defense.
Governor Edwards will renew the Public Health emergency order today and says there will be no mention of face masks in the order and the department of health’s guideline for K-12 schools will relax indoor masking. But masks are still required in healthcare settings.
Shreveport area Congressman Mike Johnson says it’s time to permanently make Fentanyl a Schedule I controlled substance. Kevin Gallagher reports on his bill to do just that:
Cut 2 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”
Due to the ongoing drought, a statewide burn ban is in effect. The State Fire Marshal’s Office along with Agriculture and Forestry issued the ban that remains in effect until rescinded. A spokesperson for the Fire Marshal says firemen have been overwhelmed with burns that accidentally get out of control due to the drought.