9:30 am Newscast

A new Louisiana Law allowing surgical castration of child rapists becomes active this month. Under it, males and females over the age of 17 convicted of sexual abuse of a child under 13 could face surgical castration. Some argue the punishment is cruel and unusual, but judges will have discretion. Still there are others who say the threat surgery won’t deter all offenders and  Baton Rouge Senator Regina Barrow-who authored the bill- says that may be true of some.

Cut 8 (12) “…(x2) them incarcerated.”
Shreveport police this morning are investigating a shooting that happened just before midnight last night. The incident happened on Fairfax Avenue. Officials say a juvenile was shot and taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries. So far, there’s been no word on motive or suspect in the shooting.

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Unemployment claims are down once again in Louisiana. In fact, according to the latest numbers from WalletHub that seems to be becoming a trend in the Bayou State. Wallet Hub Analyst Cassandra Happe says says employees seem to be more engaged and she believes that’s a good sign.

Cut 6 (09) “…further down.”

New special needs playgrounds are coming to two of Louisiana’s State Parks. Bogue Chitto and Fontainebleau state parks are the ones getting the upgrades, including amenities for special needs in cabins. Lieutenant Governor Billy Nungesser says the goal is to make sure everyone can enjoy Louisiana state parks.

Cut 12 (12) “…special need.”

The playgrounds are expected to be completed in October.