06:30 LRN Newscast January 28

Louisiana officially joins 18 other states at 8 a.m. this morning in allowing mobile sports betting. David Grubb has more…:

CUT 01(33)      “…David Grubb.”

The government of the Concordia Parish town of Ferriday has shut down, after town officals failed to approve an annual operating budget. Police and fire departments, everything was shut down after a proposed budget was voted down by the aldermen on Wednesday. Mayor Rydell Turner scheduled another budget meeting for Monday at 6 p.m.

 

Law enforcement officials in Southwest Louisiana announce a new Human Trafficking Task Force. Made up of local, state and federal LEO’s, prosecutors and service agencies and non-profits … the group will work to prevent sexual exploitation and aid victims. Brandon Brown is U.S. Attorney for the state’s Western District…:

CUT 07(13)      “…what looks funny.”

Brown says human trafficking is equal to modern-day slavery. The Task Force will seek to identify victims faster, get them to a safe haven and prosecute their captors to the extent of the law.

According to the Louisiana Department of Health, in addition to COVID cases on the downward trend, the most recent reporting week also shows flu cases declining. State Epidemiologist, Teresa Sokol says however the flu season is still active…:

CUT 10(10)      “…more weeks.”