2016 was a tragic one for law enforcement around the country, as 135 police officers were killed in the line of duty. That’s according to President of the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, Craig Floyd, who says Louisiana was third in the nation for most cops killed this year. He blames a growing disrespect for the rule of law as cops are, visible, vulnerable symbols of authority…:
cut 4 (08) “the enemy”
He says more education is needed to let the community know about the important role of law enforcement in our society.

State Police have made an arrest in a deadly pedestrian hit and run incident that happened on December 20th in Livingston Parish. The crash claimed the life of 36-year-old Corey Peeples of Denham Springs, and a search for the driver went on for more than a week. Troopers said an investigation lead them to 49-year-old Debra Ridges who they believe hit Peeples as he was walking, then fled. Bridges is charged with hit and run and obstruction.

A barn at the New Orleans Fair Grounds Racetrack is under quarantine for a case of Equine Herpes virus, according to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture. Ag Commissioner Mike Strain says one horse at the location developed the neurological disease and was humanely euthanized by a veterinarian. He says, though not transmissible to humans, this virus is highly to contagious to horses and there is no vaccine to prevent it…:
Cut 6 (06)”highly infectious”
Horse owners are reminded to be vigilant and practice preventative measures.

The son of Avoyelles Parish DA Charles Riddle III has been booked into jail on counts of allegedly possessing counterfeit money and trashing a hotel room. The Advocate reports the arrest of 36-year-old John Riddle was addressed by his father in an emotional Facebook post saying his office was an alleged target and that the DA himself made the complaint. The elder Riddle emphasized that his office would be recused from prosecuting any case filed against his son.