5:30 (17) 8:30 (20)

Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s deputies have arrested 61-year-old Jeffery Brant of Ville Platte after he was allegedly found in bed with a seven-year-old girl in Bunkie Tuesday morning.  Captain Tim Ryan says the girl’s parents held Brant at gunpoint until they arrived, and it doesn’t appear that anyone was harmed, including the seven-year-old or her four-year-old sister.

Cut 4 (10)  “…by Mr. Brant” 

Brant faces multiple charges that include indecent behavior with juveniles.

Republican Senator Bill Cassidy says his “No Surprises Act” has saved 9 million Americans from receiving surprise medical bills this year alone. Cassidy authored the legislation that went into effect at the beginning of the year.

Cut 6 (07)  “…Americans.”

According to the National Retail Federation, a record 197 million consumers shopped either in a store or on the internet over the Thanksgiving Holiday weekend, which included Cyber Monday. N-R-F President Matthew Shay says the kick-off to the holiday shopping season saw a big increase of in-store shoppers…
Cut 9 (10 “…last year”
The average price for a gallon of regular gas in Louisiana is $3.03 today, that’s down 28 cents from this time last month. And AAA spokesperson Nick Chabarria (Cha-BEAR-ee-uh) credits a drop in crude oil prices for relief at the pump. He says crude oil prices account about for 50 to 60 percent of what motorists pay at the pump.

Cut 13 (10) “…last year.”  

He says the statewide average for gas should drop be $3.00 this week.

Lake Charles Police are investigating a mass shooting that took place around 1:30 this morning at a lounge in the 500 block of Broad Street. Police says at this time there are eight known victims. Their injuries range from critical to stable and two victims have been treated and released from the hospital. One person is in custody and the investigation is ongoing.

Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s deputies have arrested 61-year-old Jeffery Brant of Ville Platte after he was allegedly found in bed with a seven-year-old girl in Bunkie Tuesday morning.  Captain Tim Ryan says the girl’s parents held Brant at gunpoint until they arrived, and it doesn’t appear that anyone was harmed, including the seven-year-old or her four-year-old sister.

Cut 4 (10)  “…by Mr. Brant” 

Bran faces multiple charges that include indecent behavior with juveniles.

Republican Senator Bill Cassidy says his “No Surprises Act” has saved 9 million Americans from receiving surprise medical bills this year.

Cut 7 (09)  “…facing Americans.”

Cassidy co-authored the bipartisan legislation and the law went into effect January 1^st.

The National Weather Services says it appears that an EF-3 tornado touched down in Caldwell Parish. The sheriff’s office reports two were injured in their home as a result.  The front that moved through the southeast was responsible for damage in Mississippi and claimed two lives Alabama.

Covington Police have identified one of the two victims that were burned beyond recognition. Police say one of the victims is 71-year-old retired Catholic priest Otis Young. The other victim has yet to be identified however Young was reported missing along with St. Peter Catholic Church Administrator Ruth Prats just hours before the bodies were discovered on Monday. Antonio Tyson has been arrested and charged in the case.

Governor Edwards has endorsed state senator Greg Tarver in the Shreveport mayoral race. Tarver a black Democrat is facing white a Republican in the race, Tom Arceneaux. Political consultant Roy Fletcher says Shreveport is a majority black, majority democrat city, so Edwards endorsement is probably unnecessary…

Cut 8 (10)  “…getting black votes.”
Greg Bowser with the Louisiana Chemical Association fears a freight rail strike could have dire consequences for the chemical industry and the country. He says water treatment facilities depend on chlorine and the ag industry on fertilizer. And because Louisiana is one of the country’s largest chemical producers, it could hurt the state’s economy.

Cut 12 (09) “…losing jobs.”

Rail workers are holding out for higher wages and more vacation time.

The 2022 hurricane season ends today and despite a predicted above-average season, Louisiana was spared this year. State Climatologist Berry Keim says Ian will go down as the signature storm after landfall in Florida.

Cut 14 (08)  “…big deal.”

Six weeks later Nicole followed a similar path. The 2022 season anticipated 21 named storms and only 14 were produced.

A Livingston Parish woman has been arrested and charged with 20 counts related to allegedly placing recording devices at her special needs child’s public school. 39-yaer-old Amanda Carter has been booked and released on bond. Livingston Sheriff Jason Ard says several devices were found at the school over the course of the semester. The investigation is ongoing.

Two young girls and their dog were found safe after a massive search effort in St. Tammany Parish Monday night. Sheriff Randy Smith says the girls – ages 4 and 7, were discovered by a search and rescue K-9 around ten after they were missing for approximately five hours. He says both were in good spirits.

Cut 11 (11)  “…little bit.”

Smith says the girls got lost deep in the woods behind their home and their dog never left their side.

A new poll among Louisiana Republicans shows former President Donald Trump still has strong support here, compared to Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Edgewater Research pollster Ed Chervenak…

Cut 3 (10) “…nomination.” 
The poll asked who Republicans their choice for president in 2024. Chervenak says he considers DeSantis’s numbers show some erosion of support for Trump, considering the Florida governor’s lower name recognition.

Senator Bill Cassidy is among a group of Republicans who’ve criticized former President Donald Trump for having dinner with Kanye West who’s faced backlash for his anti-Semitic remarks. Cassidy’s tweet said hosting racist anti-Semites for dinner encourages other racist anti-Semites.

Cut 6 (07)  “…say something.”

Cassidy’s tweet also said entertaining such persons is not reflective of the Republican party.

There’s a strong possibility for severe weather today. Whitney Thomas spoke with State Climatologist Barry Keim…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

A press conference concerning the double homicide investigation in Covington where the victims were burned beyond recognition has been delayed. Members of St. Peter Catholic Church fear the victims are retired priest Otis Young and his pastoral associate Ruth Prats, who have been missing since Sunday. 49-year-old Antonio Tyson has been charged in the double murder.

Plaquemines Police Chief Kenny Payne resigned from office after pleading “no contest” to two counts of malfeasance and was given a three-year suspended sentence, as part the plea if he resigned. District Attorney Tony Clayton says this is standard practice for a case of this nature…

Cut 11 (05)  “…that office.”

Payne admitted to asking a woman for sex in exchange for dismissing charges against her fiancé and contacting the sheriff to cover up the investigation.

Days after he was re-elected, U.S. Senator John Kennedy announced he was seriously considering a run for governor in 2023. But when should we expect an announcement? University of Louisiana at Monroe political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley expects an announcement soon…

Cut 7 (08) “…running for governor.”
Other potential GOP contenders, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and State Treasurer John Schroder say they will make a final decision next month.

Will he or won’t he run for governor? A political scientist says the sooner Senator John Kennedy announces the better. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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Plaquemines Police Chief Kenny Payne pleaded “no contest” to 2 of 5 criminal charges Monday. Kace Kieschnick speaks with District Attorney Tony Clayton about the case…

Cut 2 (32) “…I’m Kace Kieschnick.”

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There’s a strong possibility for severe weather today. Whitney Thomas spoke with State Climatologist Barry Keim…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Whitney Thomas”

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The Louisiana Department of Health is urging  Louisiana residents to get health screenings to determine if they are pre-diabetic or have diabetes. Director of Well Ahead Louisiana, Melissa Martin says adults over a certain age should be more mindful of the risk of diabetes.

Cut 4 (11)  “…or diabetes..”

LDH says diabetes affects 14% of Louisiana residents. Also about 1 in 3 Louisiana residents are pre-diabetic with blood sugar levels higher than normal.

Martin says residents who are at risk have access to resources with the state’s Well-Ahead program, which partners with six community sites throughout Louisiana to assist residents with diabetes prevention.

Cut 5 (13) “…easier choice.”

Diabetes is a largely preventable condition, Martin says residents can simply visit WellAheadLa.com.

Cut 6 (11)  “…doctor about.” 

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Days after he was re-elected, U.S. Senator John Kennedy announced he was seriously considering a run for governor in 2023. But when should we expect an official announcement? University of Louisiana at Monroe political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley expects an announcement soon…

Cut 7 (08) “…running for governor.”

Other potential GOP contenders, Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and State Treasurer John Schroder say they will make a final decision in January. Stockley says they are not the only ones awaiting Kennedy’s decision.

Cut 8 (11)  “…campaigning for.”

Stockley believes Kennedy is seriously considering a run for the state’s highest office, and because Democrats will have control of the Senate, the hardline Republican can do more in-state versus DC.

Cut 9 (07)  “…opposed to senator.”

Stockley says the sooner Kennedy makes his intentions known the better for the state GOP and other potential candidates. So far only Jeff Landry has made his announcement and he’s already received the state party’s endorsement.

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Plaquemines Police Chief Kenny Payne resigned from office after pleading “no contest” to two counts of malfeasance a week after a grand jury indicted him. Payne admitted to asking a woman for sex in exchange for dismissing charges against her fiancé and contacting the sheriff to cover up the investigation. District Attorney Tony Clayton says these two charges were the primary ones in the case against him.

Cut 10 (08) “…of those charges.” 

Payne was given a three-year suspended sentence, and part of his plea deal is that he won’t serve the three years in jail given he resigned by 4:30 Monday and meets a plethora of other requirements set by the judge. Clayton says this is standard practice for a case of this nature…

Cut 11 (05)  “…that office.”

Payne accepted the plea deal and submitted his resignation, avoiding a court case Clayton says could have cost over $600,000 in taxpayer money. Clayton says this case is a perfect example that no one is above the law…

Cut 12 (10) “…but it’s efficient.”

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Forecasters are predicting severe weather conditions for Louisiana today with the biggest concern being Northeast Louisiana. State Climatologist Barry Keim says a collision between warm and cool air masses brings the threat of damaging winds, heavy rainfall, hail, and potential for tornadoes.

Cut 13 (12) “…tornadic activity.”

The weather is expected to worsen around noon today and continue into the night. The National Weather Service has placed the northeast corner of the state at both Moderate (Level 4 out of 5) and Enhanced (Level 3 out of 5) risk categories.

Cut 14 (04)  “…settle in.”

Keim says Northeast Louisiana will face the worst conditions, but  Southeastern Louisiana residents should prepare for extensive rainfall.

Cut 15 (10)  “…is needed.”

Forecasters are urging residents to keep emergency alerts on and charge useful electronic devices ahead of time.

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LSU suffered a disappointing 38-23 loss Saturday to Texas A&M. LSU Coach Brian Kelly says the team knows they didn’t play up to standard and isn’t worried about a let-down game in the upcoming SEC Championship…

Cut  16 (17)  “…their standard.”

With the loss, the Tigers fall to 9-3 on the season, eliminating them from playoff contention. Still the SEC West Champions, LSU will face number one Georgia next week in the SEC Championship. Kelly says an SEC Championship victory in his first season is still a tremendous accomplishment even without the tiger’s playoff hopes…

Cut 17 (20) “…football program.”

The undefeated Bulldogs are the defending National Champs and represented the East in last year’s SEC Championship in a loss to Alabama. Kelly says they will take on a confident Georgia team…

Cut 18 (19) “…overcome that as well.” 

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The Saints fell to 4-8 on the season after a 13-0 loss in San Francisco. The defense showcased impressive red zone defense and the offense was able to move the ball well but had two trips inside the five-yard line resulting in zero points. Head Coach Dennis Allen says the team was successful in creating opportunities but couldn’t capitalize against a good team…

Cut 19 (17) “…has to increase.”

The Saints are last in the NFC South but are only one game behind the 5-6 division-favorite Buccaneers. With five games left in the season, three of which are against NFC South opponents, the Saints are still in the hunt for an NFC South title. Allen says the focus needs to stay on getting ready for Tampa Bay Monday night…

Cut 20 (15) “…has to be.”

Covington Police are investigating an apparent double homicide where two people were burned beyond recognition. Sgt Edwin Masters says they were found in an alleyway behind a glass company.

Cut 9 (06 “…burned they were.” 

Masters says investigators are questioning two people described as persons of interest.

You can now add your conceal carry permit to your LA Wallet app. President of Envoc, Calvin Fabree (Fay-bree) that made the app says they conducted a poll on their website for ideas to add to the wallet in addition to your driver’s and hunting licenses. He says proof of insurance is a popular request.

Cut 5 (10) “…your couch.”

You download the LA Wallet app on your smartphone.

The Cyber Monday hunt for online bargains is on, and Carmen Million, president of the Central-Louisiana Better Business Bureau, says when making an online purchase use your credit card, not a debit card.

Cut 7 (09)  “…pay for it.”

Also, to check your anti-virus software first for updates before you shop online.

Hallmark holiday movie fans are getting a Louisiana treat, with My Southern Family Christmas. Filmmaker Daniel Lewis says it was shot and set in Sorrento working with trained film crews in the area is always an added benefit along with the economic boost it brings to shooting locations.

Cut 9 (09)  “…mass audience.”

On Lifetime Saturday, Lewis’s production A New Orleans Christmas Noel premieres.

You can now add your conceal carry permit to your LA Wallet. Envoc, created the app and company president Calvin Fabre says what’s added to the app is influenced by requests in polls on the website, LA Wallet dot com.

Cut 4 (09)  “…votes.” 

Since the conceal carry option when live more than 9,000 have added it to the smartphone app.

It’s Cyber Monday, one of the busiest online shopping days of the year. Carmen Million, president of the Central-Louisiana Better Business Bureau, says before you enter your payment information, do your homework and make sure it’s a legitimate website.

Cut 6 (11)  “…that purchase.”

She says to also check that your anti-virus software is up to date on your computer and/or phone before you make an online purchase.

Early voting is underway and among the runoffs is the third district Public Service Commission Race as New Orleans Democrat Lambert Boissiere seeks a fourth term but is facing a significant challenge from Davante Lewis. Boissiere has been on the PSC since 2005 and he says he’s kept utility rates in check…:

CUT 13(11)      “…they want.”

Lewis says, if elected he’ll push for clean renewable sources of energy…:

CUT 16  (09)        “…the state.”

A Louisiana woman sustained serious, but not life-threatening injuries after a small plane crashed in Maryland. Authorities say two people were rescued this morning six hours after the plane collided into live powerlines in Montgomery County. 66-year-old Janet Williams of Marrero also suffered from hypothermia while waiting to be rescued. The plane originally department White Plains New York. It’s under investigation and the collision caused power outages to 120-thousand customers.

If you have LA Wallet on your phone, you can now add your conceal carry permit to the app. Envoke, created LA Wallet and Calvin Fabre (FAY-BREE) is president of the company.

Cut 3 (07) “…permit.” 

LA Wallet is the app best known as a way to conveniently show your Louisiana driver’s license. Fabre says what’s added to the app is influenced by requests in polls on their website at LA Wallet dot com.

A Louisiana company receives FDA clearance for its chemo-rated nitrile exam gloves. SafeSource Direct partner Steve Mott says the company was founded in January 2021 as a joint venture between Ochsner Health and Trax Development in response to disruptions in the worldwide supply chain.

Cut 11 (09)  “…at risk.”

The FDA approval means the facility located near Broussard can add 13-hundred more jobs.

Hallmark Christmas movie junkies are getting a taste of how Louisiana celebrates the holiday season with “My Southern Family Christmas.” Ascension Parish native and filmmaker Daniel Lewis says it’s a story about a reporter who ends up covering a story about Sorrento’s newest Pere Noel who happens to be her father who left when she was an infant.

Cut 8 (07)  “…about a family.”

This Saturday Lewis’ production A New Orleans Noel debuts on Lifetime.

Early voting is underway and among the runoffs is the third district Public Service Commission Race as New Orleans Democrat Lambert Boissiere seeks a fourth term but is facing a significant challenge from Davante Lewis. Boissiere has been on the PSC since 2005 and he says he’s kept utility rates in check…:

CUT 13(11)      “…they want.”

But challenger Lewis says utilities like Entergy used their monopoly power to generate record profits without making the necessary investments. He says utilities use campaign contributions to buy their way out of regulation.:

CUT 14(09)      “…same entities.”

The third PSC district covers Orleans and Jefferson Parishes, plus the River Parishes and sections of the Baton Rouge area.

A Louisiana company receives FDA clearance for its chemo-rated nitrile exam gloves. SafeSource Direct partner Steve Mott the approval will mean the addition of more than 13 hundred jobs to the Broussard facility, which already employs more than 850 people.

Cut 12 (06) “…them here.”

Currently, more than 90 percent of medical-grade nitrile gloves are manufactured outside the country.

Fans of Hallmark Christmas movies are getting an added spice of Louisiana holiday traditions this year with “My Southern Family Christmas.” Ascension Parish native and filmmaker Daniel Lewis says it’s a sweet film about a family that was set and filmed in Sorrento.

Cut 7 (05) “…tradition.”

Lewis’s production of A New Orleans Noel debuts on Lifetime in December. It features Patti LeBelle.