22-year-old Holden Matthews of Opelousas has pleaded guilty in federal and state court to burning down three historically black St. Landry Parish baptist churches last spring. As part of the deal, Matthews pleaded guilty to three federal counts of intentional damage to religious property, a hate crime under the 1996 Church Arson Prevention Act. Former US Attorney Harry Rosenberg expects Matthews will receive a lengthy sentence.
Cut 13 (10) “…sentences.”
Matthews will be sentenced in federal court on May 22nd.

State Police is investigating a fatal police shooting in Lafayette. It happened at an apartment complex on Kaliste Saloom Road. Authorities say two Lafayette Police officers responded to the area in reference to a disturbance involving a weapon. A subject approached the officer and a physical confrontation ensued which led to the suspect being fatally shot.

State lawmakers will once again this year discuss legislation aimed at eliminating the death penalty…
Cut 1 (33) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

In the American Lung Association State of Tobacco Control report, Louisiana receives an “F” for funding for State Tobacco Prevention Programs and Minimum Age of Sale for Tobacco Products. State Director Ashley Livery says a new federal law banning the sale of nicotine products to those under 21 should help, but there is confusion with this new law…
cut 12 (09) “…of the land”