The small town of Melville in St. Landry Parish is in shock after a man used a machete to attack a priest. Police Chief Phillip Lucas says 58-year-old Johnny Neely of Melville is in custody after the alleged attack on a St. John the Evangelist Catholic Church priest Thursday night. Lucas says he could also be charged with a hate crime…:

CUT 07(07)      “…head today.”

The priest is being treated for cuts to his head and body.

The police chief in Grand Coteau has been arrested. Authorities received a tip that Chief Jeff Guilbeau was involved in the use and distribution of illegal narcotics. St Landry Parish Sheriff Bobby Guidroz says they began surveillance and verified the information…:

CUT 12(05)      “…been doing.”

Guilbeau is charged with distribution, theft, obstruction of justice, and malfeasance in office.

Lawmakers will return to the State Capitol Tuesday for a veto override session. House Speaker Clay Schexnayder says Governor Edwards vetoed 25 bills and specific items in three different budget bills…:

CUT 03(12)      “…vote as well.”

Schexnayder says the governor’s veto of a bill to ban gender affirming care of transgender minors has motivated Conservative lawmakers to try veto overrides for a third straight year.

Some positive cancer-related bills NOT vetoed by the Governor are being celebrated. Julie Stokes, with the Louisiana Oncology Society, is glad the Governor signed a bill assuring insurance covers new and developing treatments…:

CUT 09(08)      “…from last year.”

Another new law provides for fertility preservation for people undergoing cancer treatments. And another lets you select “bone marrow donor” on your driver’s license.