Former-Angola Warden Burl Cain defends himself amid allegations he used prison labor for work at his private residence. A legislative audit found at least three employees worked on Cain’s home while on the clock. Cain told Talk 107.3 in Baton Rouge that at times, employees would volunteer to help, but not while working.

Cut 14 (10) “took leave”

Lawmakers are struggling to come up with a plan for filling a $304 million budget hole without raising taxes. One option would be to broaden the base of the clean penny that was added to the sales tax last year, but Oil City Representative Jim Morris doesn’t want to put a bigger burden on taxpayers.

Cut 6 (12) “to consider it”

New Orleans officials plan to install more than 200 cameras around the city to try and reduce crime. But crime analyst Jeff Asher is skeptical. He says while the cameras might be effective, it will depend on NOPD’s ability to respond quickly.

Cut 9 (11) “about it”

Asher says the best way to reduce crime in the Crescent City is more uniformed officers.

A Covington man is dead after he lit his home on fire during a drunken dispute with his father. That’s according to Deputy Chief Brant Thompson with the state Fire Marshal’s Office, who says Brandon Kellum’s father, Jamie, has burns to 85% of his body.

Cut 11 (10) “his body”

Thompson says toxicology results are pending.