The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office has arrested 11 people this week involved in the theft of dozens of cell phones from Mardi Gras revelers in New Orleans. Chief Deputy Jimmy Travis says the suspects are members of a Colombian theft ring and they are trying to return stolen phones to the owners…

Cut 3 (09) “…bring your phone” 

Phone numbers are listed on the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Facebook page.

Alexandria Senator Jay Luneau is reintroducing legislation to keep auto insurance companies from unfairly discriminating against one’s gender. He says in Louisiana women often pay more than men. Last time the bill failed to make it out of committee because some members thought the legislation would cause insurance rates for men to increase.

Cut 11 (05)  “…that way.”

The regular session begins on April 10^th.

Morgan City Police arrest a New York man, who’s also convicted sex offender after he was selling candy and novelty items along the Hera (Hair-ah) Parade route. Thomas Devaul did not have a permit and he also failed to report his move to St. Mary’s Parish. Among his are charges of soliciting without a permit, and failure to register as a sex offender.

With the start of Lent today, we look in on the Louisiana seafood industry. How ready are they for the additional demand…?

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

It was 33 years ago when 15-year-old Tammy Call disappeared from Leesville High School and seven years later, her remains were found in the Sandy Hill area. On the anniversary of her disappearance, Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft made a post on social media to encourage anyone with information to contact them.

Cut 3 (12) “…they may know.” 

He says one clue could help them find a break in this cold case.

Its Fat Tuesday, a tradition like no other in the world here in Louisiana. There are parades across south Louisiana and in New Orleans, the party will go until midnight and these revelers on historic St. Charles Avenue are ready….

Cut 6 (06)  “…never enough” 

And if you missed out, you won’t have to wait as long next year with Fat Tuesday on February 13^th.

Shreveport Police and State Police have been fast and transparent in the recent officer-involved shooting death of 43-year-old Alonzo Bagley; releasing body cam footage & other evidence to the public quickly. This contrasts with the 2019 case of Ronald Greene, wherein body cam footage was suppressed for over a year before it leaked to the public. Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney Franz Borghardt says there’s no comparison…:

Cut 11 (13)  “…apples and papayas.”

Borhardt can only speculate but says quite possibly lessons learned from the Greene case have inspired law enforcement to be more forthcoming with information going forward.

LSU wide receiver Malik Nabers was arrested on a weapons-related charge in New Orleans Monday. Details of the arrest are yet unavailable, but we do know the charge was “illegally carrying a weapon” and that he has been released from jail as of this afternoon. So far no comment from the university.

Authorities have arrested a 19-year-old in connection with the Sunday night shooting death 19-year-old Ashton Money of Broussard. Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Katherine Breaux says Caiden Sheridan was arrested by Lake Charles police Monday evening.

Cut 9 (08) “…second-degree murder.”

It was 33 years ago when 15-year-old Tammy Call disappeared from Leesville High School and yet the case is still cold. Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft is asking the public for any tips about Call. In 1997 a hunter found human remains in the Fort Polk area.

Cut 5 (12) “…suspicious at the time.”

You’re asked to contact the Vernon Parish Sheriff’s office if you have any information whatsoever.

Shreveport Police and State Police have been fast and transparent in the recent officer-involved shooting death of 43-year-old Alonzo Bagley compared to the 2019 case of Ronald Green.  Shreveport Police Officer Alexander Tyler has been charged with negligent homicide. Baton Rouge criminal defense attorney Franz Borghardt says, in this case, releasing the body cam video was the right choice…:

Cut 13 (10) “…a good thing.” 

Everywhere else in the country today it’s Tuesday, but here in Louisiana its Fat Tuesday, a tradition like no other. There are parades and celebrations across the state today. Visitors from all over come to Louisiana for carnival season. These folks from Texas are enjoying their first Fat Tuesday in the Big Easy…

Cut 8 (08)  “…overturn.” 

Mardi Gras next year will arrive even sooner, with Fat Tuesday, February 13th.

New Orleans Police have arrested a man in connection with a shooting that killed one man and injured four others including a four-year-girl and charged him with second-degree murder. It happened around 9:30 last night towards the end of the Krewe of Bacchus Parade. At a press conference this afternoon Acting NOPD Superintendent Michelle Woodfork says they’ve arrested Mansour Mbodj.

Cut 3 ongoing. :12

Police are still gathering evidence including surveillance footage from individuals and homes in the area. Woodfork wouldn’t say if it was a targeted attack or if he was the sole gunman, only that he’s been arrested.

Cut 4 with a judge. :08

The ages of the victims range from four years to 24 years old.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office says the fire that destroyed the New Friendship Baptist Church in Grant Parish Thursday is not suspicious. SFMO spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says investigators have determined the blaze began in a mechanical room and they are trying to determine if it was electric or weather-related.

Cut 13 (09) “…it is not.” 

Church members plan to rebuild the more than 70-year-old building.

State Wildlife & Fisheries agents have arrested 23-year-old Luis Garcia for allegedly catching and selling over $350-thousand worth of Louisiana oysters. LDWF spokesman Adam Einck (“EYE-kn”) says it the investigation started last November when Garcia, without a license was stopped by agents on Lake Borgne. As for those who purchased the oyster, Einck says none of the customers are being charged, at this time.

Cut 12 (08) “…still under investigation.”

In his proposed state budget for the 2023-24 fiscal year, Governor Edwards wants $3000 pay raises for all public-school teachers. The actual Executive Budget calls for $2000 salary bumps, but Edwards feels lawmakers will be able to find revenue to fund the higher figure…:

Cut 10 (12) “…more than sufficient.” 

A West Monroe couple faces aggravated arson, criminal conspiracy, and insurance fraud charges after allegedly setting their mobile home on fire in December of 2021. State Fire Marshal’s spokesperson Ashley Rodrigue says it was originally believed to be accidental, but a tip sparked further investigation…:

Cut 12 (12) “…insurance money.”

Charles Robertson and Tonya Scott were arrested on Valentine’s.

Gubernatorial candidates turned in up-to-date campaign finance reports this week and Hunter Lundy of Lake Charles shows one-point-six million on hand after lending himself one-point-four million dollars. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says Lundy’s “no party” designation on the ballot can only take him so far.

Cut  4 (04)  “…in Louisiana” 

Attorney General Jeff Landry has the most money on hand at five million dollars.

It’s the last weekend of carnival season and Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser says they are expecting huge crowds across the state this Mardi Gras. Nungesser says before COVID Louisiana had five record-breaking tourism years in a row and he’s grateful that parades are back to their pre-pandemic routes and krewes.

Cut 6 (11)  “…festival season.” 

A Shreveport Police officer is charged in the shooting death of an unarmed man earlier this month. Alexander Tyler is charged with negligent homicide in the death of Alonzo Bagley. This is from a body cam video of an officer on the scene trying to render first aid to Bagley.

Cut 10 (10) “…respond” 

Tyler is 23 years old and has been with the Shreveport PD for just under two years.

The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking for your help in locating 32-year-old Trey Rentrop of Raceland. LPSO Captain Brennan Matherne says after an iPad was discovered in the home of a woman with two children recording them.

Cut 3 (11) “…aware of it.” 

You’re asked to call Crimestoppers.

The Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over Campaign is in effect for the last weekend of carnival season. That means officers will be on the lookout for impaired and unsafe drivers. Mark Lambert, with the state Highway Safety Commission, says alcohol accounts for most crashes during this time of year…:

Cut 7 (14)  “…destructive decisions.” 

With DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson’s announced retirement we asked the question that’s on everyone’s mind, will he run for governor. Wilson wouldn’t say if he is or isn’t running but he did hint that an announcement is forthcoming.

Cut 13 (12) “…a public servant.” 

Wilson says he won’t make an announcement until he retires which is March 4^th.

In Shreveport an arrest warrant has been issued for police officer Alexander Tyler who was involved in the shooting death of 43-year-old Alonzo Bagley. Officer Tyler is white and is to be held without bond for negligent homicide after Bagley, a Black man was killed on February 3^rd, Bagley was unarmed.

At least three lawmakers will file bills for the upcoming session to head off kids accessing adult content at public libraries; an issue the governor feels is a “solution in search of a problem.”

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

The Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking for your help in locating 32-year-old Trey Rentrop of Raceland. LPSO Captain Brennan Matherne says after an iPad was discovered in the home of a woman with two children recording them.

Cut 3 (12) “…aware of it.” 

Rentrop has also failed to register as a sex offender and faces numerous charges. If you have any information, you’re asked to call Crimestoppers.

State Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson has told Governor John Bel Edwards that he will retire from state service effective March 4th, fueling speculation the Democrat will enter the governor’s race. Edwards says Wilson has been the most effective DOTD secretary in state history and would make a great governor, if he chooses to run…

Cut 5 (10) “…for him.”
Edwards made those comments on his monthly Ask the Governor Show.

The announcement of DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson’s retirement has many speculating about his intent to run for governor. Governor Edwards made the announcement Wednesday that Wilson is stepping down on March 4^th. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says the timing is foreshadowing.

Cut 4 (11)  “…those expectations.”

It’s become a hot-button issue for Republicans nationally and three Louisiana lawmakers are filing legislation to make public libraries more accountable for children and the possibility of them accessing adult materials, Governor Edwards says there is no known case in Louisiana, but many candidates are making it important.

Cut 8 (13)  “…corrected out there.”

Optimism among small business owners increased ever so slightly, that’s according to the latest National Federation of Independent Business survey. Louisiana NFIB spokesman Todd Pack says inflation continues to impact small businesses and it’s the uncertainty that has many small business owners unable to plan for the future.

Cut 14 (11)  “…stay healthy.”

Food Scientists at the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans tested popular parade food and their tendency of bacteria growth when food is left out for longer periods. They took samples of food in an ice chest and checked on them every two hours for eight hours for bacteria and pathogen growth. Food Science Program Director Dr. Darryl Holliday…

Cut 10 (11)  “…hugely significant.”

Ham and cheese sandwiches performed the worst.

The announcement of DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson’s March retirement has some speculating he’s running for governor. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (30)  “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

_______________________________________________

At least three lawmakers will file bills for the spring legislature to head off kids accessing adult content at public libraries; an issue the governor feels is a “solution in search of a problem”…:

Cut 2 (32)  “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

_______________________________________________

The University of Holy Cross in New Orleans tested the growth of foodborne bacteria and pathogens on parade route favorites over an eight-hour period. Kace Kieschnick has the story…

Cut 3 (33) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.” 

_____________________________________________

The announcement of DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson’s retirement has many speculating about his intent to run for governor. Governor Edwards made the announcement on his monthly radio call-in show that Wilsons is stepping down on March 4^th. LaPolitics.com publisher Jeremy Alford says the timing is foreshadowing.

Cut 4 (11)  “…those expectations.”

Alford says another indicator that Wilson will seek to succeed his current boss, was Edwards praising the fellow democrat’s tenure at DOTD and his leadership. Edwards says he’ll let Wilson announce his intentions and that he didn’t want to get ahead of him.

Cut 5 (10) “…for him.”

And yet another clue that Wilson will throw his hat in the ring for governor Alford says is Democratic Party Chair Katie Bernhardt’s announcement that she’s not running.

Cut 6 (08)  “…are a Democrat.” 

Wilson has served as Transportation Secretary for seven years and received national recognition as the first African American president of the American Association of State highway and Transportation Officials in 2020.

_____________________________________________

A third state lawmaker says he will file legislation to make public libraries more accountable for children possibly accessing adult materials. Mandeville Rep. Paul Hollis, Carencro Rep. Julie Emerson, and Turkey Creek Senator Heather Cloud all plan to tackle the issue with bills. During his Monthly “Ask the Governor” radio show, Governor John bel Edwards said it’s a hot issue for conservatives, but not a real problem for Louisiana…:

Cut 7 (07) “…our libraries work.”

Bills filed would give the local government power to remove library control board members, if need be. Another bill would set up restricted, adults-only lending cards. Edwards says there is no known case of a child accessing adult materials in a Louisiana public library, but it’s an issue many candidates are making important…:

Cut 8 (13)  “…corrected out there.”

The governor says this year is a two-month “fiscal only” session, wherein lawmakers are only allowed to file 5 non-fiscal bills. He feels lawmakers are jumping on a conservative “bandwagon” with the issue, when the state has other real problems to address…:

Cut 9 (09)  “…use of our time.”

As for his possible veto of any such bills passed, Edwards says he’ll wait to see what they actually say and do before deciding.

_______________________________________________

Food Scientists at the University of Holy Cross in New Orleans tested popular parade foods to learn more about foodborne bacteria growth on favorites left out throughout the day. Researchers left food and ice chest samples out at room temperature and checked them every two hours for eight hours for bacteria and pathogen growth. UHC Food Science Program Director Dr. Darryl Holliday has the results….

Cut 10 (11)  “…hugely significant.”

Holliday recommends either sanitizing your hands before reaching for a beverage or using a wet wipe to decontaminate the rim of the drink to avoid any bacteria that could ruin your Mardi Gras.

Researchers also tested fried chicken, ham and cheese sandwiches, jambalaya, onion dip, and dairy-based daiquiris. Holliday says the hot foods like fried chicken and jambalaya held up well due to the extreme temperatures they’re cooked at, but it’s best to try to keep hot foods warm and cold foods cool throughout the day…

Cut 11 (14)  “…warming oven.”

The worst-performing food was ham and cheese sandwiches which Holliday says offer a breeding ground for foodborne bacteria. With a source of simple carbohydrates from the bread and the natural bacteria found in lunch meat, premade sandwiches can offer an unsanitary combination…

Cut 12 (07) “…ready to eat.”

______________________________________________

Optimism among small business owners increased ever so slightly, that’s according to the latest National Federation of Independent Business survey. For the month of January, it increased a half a point and Louisiana NFIB spokesman Todd Pack says small businesses say inflation continues to be a hurdle.

Cut 13 (06)  “…problem.”

Pack says inflation is impacting the cost of almost everything and small businesses continue to feel the pinch. Pack says it’s the uncertainty that has many small business owners unable to plan for the future.

Cut 14 (11)  “…stay healthy.”

And small businesses continue to face staffing shortages. Pack says small businesses are offering higher wages as a result.

Cut 15 (06)  “…out there.”

NFIB says 45-percent of small businesses indicate staffing issues, up four points from December.

__________________________________________________

Louisiana Tech basketball returns to action tonight against North Texas who is currently second in the Conference USA. The Bulldogs have a 6-8 conference record, but 7 of those losses have been by 7 points or less. Coach Talvin Hester says his young team has bought into the system but is going through some growing pains…

Cut  16 (20)  “…turn to W’s.” 

The Bulldogs fell to the Mean Green in a tight 67-65 game in Texas earlier this year and have lost back-to-back games on the road. Seventh in the conference, Hester says he’s excited to have a chance to defend home court and improve their seeding before the end of the season…

Cut 17 (15) “…than at home.” 

______________________________________________________

The LSU women’s basketball team’s undefeated season came to an end Sunday after falling 88-64 to first-ranked South Carolina. Coach Kim Mulkey says she and her team of course weren’t happy with the result, but the game was still a major moment for the program and the team’s progression…

Cut 18 (19) “…did you learn.” 

The Lady Tigers will host their annual Play4Kay game tonight against Ole Miss. Associate Coach Bob Starkey will be donating a dollar to the Kay Yow fund for every LSU student in attendance. The Rebels are fighting to finish in the top four in the SEC and earn a double bye in the tournament while LSU hopes to finish out the final four games to end the season in second in back-to-back years. Mulkey says it’s an important game for both teams…

Cut 19 (15) “…is to us”

Tip-off in the P-MAC is at 8:00

______________________________________________________

Cut 20 (17)  “… a huge blessing.” 

On his monthly call-in radio show, Ask the Governor, Governor Edwards announced that DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson is retiring March 4^th. Some believe it’s an indication Wilson is throwing his hat for governor and will be the first formidable Democratic candidate. Edwards also sang Wilson’s praises and said the state would be very well served if Wilson chooses to run and is elected.

The Violence Policy Center ranks Louisiana second in the country for overall gun death rates. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30)  “….I’m Jeff Palermo” 

Another round of severe weather will impact the state today and tomorrow. LRN Meteorologist John Wetherbee says north, central, and southwest Louisiana are under a slight risk for severe weather that will linger into tomorrow morning.

Cut 9 (08) “…impact Louisiana”

Mardi Gras parades rolling in the New Orleans area should be fine tonight, but the threat for severe weather exists tomorrow in southeast Louisiana…

The effort to recall New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell has one more week to gather the petition signatures needed, and they say they are very close. On Tuesday, “No LaToya” reports needing just over 1000 names. Group organizer Eileen Carter says New Orleans residents who want change in their city need to act…:

Cut 6 (11)  “…NoLaToya.org.”