Louisiana is seeing an increase in the number of people infected with Vibrio vulnificus, commonly called flesh eating bacteria. State epidemiologist, Theresa Sokol says most of those infected are through wounds. Typically, at this time of year we see less than ten cases but so far this year, 20 people have been hospitalized. She says Vibrio thrives in warm Gulf waters.

Cut 13 (10) “…Vibrio infections.”

A Port Allen man is accused of trying to set fire to a Baton Rouge home with four children inside early Tuesday morning. Baton Rouge Fire Department spokesperson Justin Hill says the suspect, 46-year-old Alfred Jarvis had two restraining orders again him and allegedly threatened the occupants of the home two days before he tried to set the fire. Jarvis have been charged with four counts of attempted first degree murder…

Cut 11 (12) “…witnesses said.”

A New Orleans Police officer has been arrested for allegedly hire sex workers while on duty in the French Quarter. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Jeff Palermo”

An effort to raise the 75-thousand-dollar homestead exemption set in 1980 failed in the last legislative session. St. Tammany Parish assessor Louis Fitzmorris says in the 80s and 90s, you could purchase a home and not pay property taxes. He purchased a home in Abita Springs in the 90s for 48-thousand dollars…

Cut 3 (05) “…200-thousand dollars”

He says the 75-thousand-dollar homestead exemption is a stealth tax increase on homeowners and if the homestead exemption kept up with inflation from 1980 it would need to be about $300,000.