A grand jury in East Feliciana Parish will hear the case against a couple accused of neglecting their adult daughter to death. More from Kevin Gallagher…:

Cut 1 (33) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.”

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A bill to test Louisiana students for reading proficiency before being promoted to 4th grade is set to be heard in the House this week. Brooke Thorington has more…

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.” 

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The death penalty still has the support of most Louisianans, but could we see it put to rest anytime soon? David Grubb has the story…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

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An East Feliciana Parish grand jury will hear the case against a Slaughter couple accused of extreme neglect in the death of their 36-year-old daughter. 20^th Judicial District D.A. Sam D’Aquilla (pronounced: duh-QUILL-uh) says Lacey Fletcher had developed a mental illness and became a shut-in; literally living on the couch in Clay and Sheila Fletcher’s home. He says she was found in early January – on that sofa – dead and in horrible conditions…:

Cut 4 (08)  “…jumped right on it.”

The parish coroner reports Lacey was found lying on the couch, surrounded in her own bodily waste. D’Aquilla says she had become a recluse, and her parents seemingly did nothing to help…:

Cut 5 (07) “…room of the house.”

He says Lacey had developed physical health issues, but had not been taken to a doctor in many years.

The coroner described Lacey’s condition when she was found as being “melted into” the sofa; her body covered in sores and ulcers. D’Aquilla says the smell in the Fletcher’s living room was unbearable. He says the investigation led to considering that 2^nd-degree murder charges against Clay and Sheila Fletcher were called for…:

Cut 6 (13)  “…it’s just horrifying.”

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A bill to improve literacy rates in Louisiana will be heard in the House this week. Mandeville Representative Richard Nelson’s bill is modeled on a Mississippi law that prohibits students with reading deficiencies by the end of the third grade to be promoted to fourth grade. Nelson says since it was enacted in the Magnolia State in 2013…

Cut 7 (10) “…grade literacy.”

The bill allows the Louisiana Department of Education to determine testing qualifications for students and the criteria for promotion to the fourth grade. Nelson says when testing first went into effect in Mississippi the score was deliberately lowered so a large number of students would not be held back.

Cut 8 (11)  “…across the board…”

If the bill receives final passage, it would not go into effect until the 2023-2024 school year. Nelson says he expects the first year would most likely impact the greatest number of students. Testing would be administered more than once to would allow students another opportunity to improve their scores along with intensive training.

Cut 9 (14)  “…in our state.”

Nelson says one out of four fourth-graders in Louisiana can’t read on grade level.

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The state of Louisiana hasn’t performed an execution since 2010, though a majority of residents still support the death penalty in cases of murder, according to the 2022 Louisiana Survey. Dr. Michael Henderson of the LSU Public Policy Research Lab says that support is decreasing.

Cut 10 (08) “…13 points.”

Just over half of respondents said they favor the death penalty, a dip of seven percentage points from four years ago. Opposition rose four percentage points to 38 percent. Henderson says Louisiana is trending in the same direction as the rest of the country, and a major factor in that is the possibility of putting an innocent person to death.

Cut  11 (10)  “…kinds of crimes.”  

The death penalty is slowly being eliminated worldwide, with the US as the only Western nation that still applies it regularly, and it remains legal in just 27 states. Henderson says it may take a while, but if the national trend continues as it has, capital punishment could become a thing of the past within the decade.

Cut 12 (11) “…perhaps sooner.” 

A bill to abolish the death penalty died in a Senate committee earlier in the session.

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If you are planning a trip to California in the summer or fall, Allegiant Air announces they are offering 65-dollar one-way flights from Shreveport to Los Angeles and back from May 27th to November 14th. Shreveport Regional Airport Authority Mark Crawford on why Allegiant Air is offering a low air fare…

Cut 13 (10) “…each way”

The Los Angeles flights depart and arrive in Shreveport on Monday and Fridays.

Crawford says they are fortunate to have Allegiant Air as a carrier at their airport, because they also offer low fares to Orlando and Destin, Florida…

Cut 14 (12)  “…each way”

Crawford says they expect a busy summer but they do not have the number of flights going out and coming as they did before the pandemic…

Cut 15 (10)  “…aircraft availability.”

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The Saints ended up taking five players in the NFL draft and they hope they found their left tackle in the future by selecting Northern Iowa’s Trevor Penning with the 19th overall pick. Saints General Manager Mickey Loomis says they’ve had success in drafting offensive linemen from small schools…

Cut 16 (25)  “…our coaches”

On the final day of the NFL draft, the Saints selected the reigning Sun Belt Player of the Year, Appalachian State linebacker D’Marco Jackson. He led the Mountaineers in tackles last season and had six sacks. Allen says there’s a lot to like about Jackson…

Cut 17 (21) “ …benefit us.” 

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Though the season has come to an end for the New Orleans Pelicans, the team gave fans several memorable moments as they climbed up the standings and into the playoffs. Perhaps, the most memorable was coach Willie Green’s impassioned plea to this team to keep fighting as the Pels overcame a double-digit deficit against the Clippers to clinch their spot in the postseason.

Cut 18 (18) “ …all season.” 

As the Pelicans turned their season around, the fan base swelled and made the Smoothie King Center one of the loudest arenas in the NBA. VP of basketball operations David Griffin said the bond between the team and the fans was unlike anything he had experienced.

Cut 19 (20) _“…all the way through.” 

Former American Idol winner and Louisiana native Laine Hardy was arrested Friday after LSU Police received a complaint, he allegedly put a listening device in a student’s room. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A special House committee investigating the death of Ronald Greene hears from a high-ranking State Police Trooper who admits there was a cover-up. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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Former East Carroll Parish Sheriff, 84-year-old Dale Rinicker was arrested Thursday in West Monroe after he was asked to leave a convenience store for allegedly making lewd comments to female employees. Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesperson Glen Springfield says after multiple requests to leave the store deputies arrested Rinicker for trespassing.

Cut 3 (11) “…of uniform.”

Even though Rinicker threatened officers during the arrest Springfield says he was taken to the Ouachita Correctional Center and charged with Criminal Trespass and two counts of Resisting an Officer.

Cut 4  (08) “…and resisting.”

In 1997 Rinicker pleaded guilty to taking kickbacks from a manager of a private prison in Providence.

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The Saints officially entered a new era Thursday, conducting its first draft without Sean Payton and first with new head coach Dennis Allen. New Orleans traded picks 16, 98, and 120 to Washington to move up and grab wide receiver Chris Olave, and took offensive tackle Trevor Penning at 19. Allen says both players fit the mold of what the Saints are looking for.

Cut 5  (10) “…great team players.”

The Saints say they are not in a rebuild and the expectation is to contend for the playoffs in 2022. Allen says having a strong foundation already in place helps in the decision-making process as they look to build on it.

Cut 6  (12) “…who we got.” 

The Pelicans saw their season come to an end  Thursday with a loss to the Phoenix Suns in game six of the opening round of the Western Conference playoffs. After the game, head coach Willie Green shed tears on the court as he congratulated the Suns and consoled his players. He says his emotions were swirling

Cut 7 (12) “…coming to a close.” 

It was a miraculous season in many ways for the Pelicans, who went from one of the worst teams in the NBA to become a media darling as they battled the Suns. Coach Green says the experience his young team gained this season is something they have to apply as they prepare for next year.

Cut 8 (12) “…getting ready.” 

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Multiple bills concerning abortion rights have been discussed during this legislative session, and it remains a polarizing topic in the state. However, Dr. Michael Henderson of the LSU Public Policy Research Lab says there’s been slow but steady growth in support for legal access.

Cut 9 (12) “…access to abortion.”

In the latest release of data from the 2022 Louisiana Survey, 46 percent of Louisianans say abortion should be legal in all or most cases, with 49 percent taking the opposing stance. In 2016, only 40-percent said abortion should be legal, while 55-percent said it should be illegal. Henderson says when compared to the rest of the nation, Louisiana stands out with those figures.

Cut 10 (09) “…on abortion.”

Like so many issues, opinions seem to fall along political party lines. Henderson says that while Republicans have remained fairly consistent in their attitudes, Democrats who support legal access rose from 51 to 74 percent since 2016.

Cut 11 (07)  “…across the country.” 

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A high-ranking State Police trooper confirms L-S-P was involved in a cover-up to hide the facts surrounding the roadside death of Ronald Greene in 2019. Lt. Colonel Kenny Van Buren gave the admission during lengthy questioning by state lawmakers

Cut 12 (14) “…answers too.”  

Greene’s family was originally told he died as a result of a car crash following a high-speed chase, but body camera video of his arrest shows he was severely beaten by troopers.

Retired Captain Mark Richards told the legislative committee looking into Greene’s death he was ordered to block the crash report from being distributed, which he says is not normal protocol.

Cut 13 (13) “…before”

Richards believes the alleged coverup goes all the way to the top.

Baton Rouge Representative Edmond Jordan says State Police should do more to uncover the truth…

Cut 14 (12)  “…the coverup.”

The special House committee investigating the circumstances surrounding Greene’s death is expected to have more meetings.

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There’s plenty of anticipation in the Big Easy as Jazz Fest returns after being silenced by the pandemic since 2019. Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (32) “…I’m Brooke Thorington.”

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A bill mandating equal pay for women who do the same work as men is halted in a House committee. Kevin Gallagher has more…:

Cut 2 (34) “…I’m Kevin Gallagher.” 

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A New Orleans grand jury has indicted four teenagers for their alleged roles in the carjacking and murder of Linda Frickey. David Grubb has more…

Cut 3 (34) “…I’m David Grubb.” 

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The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival finally returns to the Fairgrounds today after being silenced by the pandemic, and with headliners like the Red Hot Chili Peppers, Willie Nelson, Stevie Nicks, and Erykah Badu; Jazz Fest Producer Quint Davis says the one thing he’s looking forward to the most is the audience.

Cut 4 (06)  “…waiting for.”

With opening weekend competing with Festival International, Garth Brooks, and the State Fair Davis says he’s not sure attendance records will be broken but he is positive once the gates open it will be memorable, similar to the first Jazz Fest after Katrina, but this time it’s been absent for three years.

Cut 5 (05) “…festival’s back.”

And not only is Jazz Fest going to be memorable for the crowd this year, Davis says it’s going to be extremely special for the musical acts also. He says they were overwhelmed with requests to play the festival this year.

Cut 6 (08)  “…live people.”

Jazz Fest will take place over seven days, beginning April 29^th to May 1^st and then on May 5^th until the 8^th.  For more information visit NOjazzfest.com.

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The House Labor Committee votes down a bill to demand all employers in the state give equal pay regardless of gender. Speaking for his bill, Marrero Democrat Representative Kyle Green says his bill seeks to extend equal pay mandates for government workers – passed in 2013 – to include everyone…:

Cut 7 (13) “…for women of color.”

But Caddo Parish Republican Representative Dodie Horton wondered if Green was aware the state already has a 2013 non-discrimination law that achieves the same thing…:

Cut 8 (13)  “…national origin, disability…”

Horton says passing a redundant bill will probably not help close the gender pay gap.

Bossier City Republican Representative Raymond Crews agrees that women already have a state law under which to address a gender pay inequity. He says employers who arbitrarily pay men more than women are only hurting themselves…:

Cut 9 (14)  “…at a higher rate.”

By a vote of 3 “yeas” to 7 “nays”, the bill fails to pass and is dead for the session.

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A grand jury in New Orleans has indicted four teenagers on charges of second-degree murder in the death of Linda Frickey, who died after the teens allegedly carjacked and dragged her down a street last month. Orleans Parish District Attorney Jason Williams says all four will be tried as adults.

Cut 10 (11) “…not enough.”

Frickey died on March 21 after being forced from her car and dragged for the length of a city block. While discussing the indictments, Williams relayed the thoughts of Mrs. Frickey’s family, whom he has been in contact with since the arrests.

Cut  11 (11)  “…asked for it.”  

The carjacking occurred in the middle of a weekday afternoon and has been viewed as particularly brazen and brutal. Williams says that nothing will undo the tragedy, but his office is determined to bring some justice to the Frickey family and the community.

Cut 12 (11) “…horrible murder.” 

If convicted on an adult charge of second-degree murder, each juvenile would face a life sentence with the possibility of parole after 25 years.

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Two high-ranking state police officers and a retired officer appeared before the House committee investigating the 2019 State Police custody death of Ronald Greene Thursday. Lt Col Chavez Cammon, who was then over internal affairs, acknowledged that officers involved in Greene’s arrest should be held responsible.

Cut 13 (13) “…held accountable.”

In past hearings, some LSP personnel have told committee members they could not answer questions due to an active investigation. Lt. Col Kenny VanBuren, Deputy Superintendent Bureau of Investigations told lawmakers there have been no indictments, no arrests so, therefore, there are no pending judgments. VanBuren said he would answer questions about the case and that…

Cut 14 (07)  “…no idea.”

The committee is also questioning how much Governor John Bel Edwards knew about the Greene case and when he knew it. Kenner Representative Debbie Villio asked Cammon if he ever spoke with former LSP Commissioner Calvin Braxton about the Greene case with the intent it would be relayed to the Edwards Administration, he said he did not.

Cut 15 (12)  “…make those statements.”

On April 7^th Third District Attorney General John Belton told committee members a grand jury will be convened to consider charges against troopers involved with Greene’s death.

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Two of the Saints biggest needs heading into the NFL draft were at wide receiver and offensive tackle and they addressed both areas in the first round. New Orleans traded up to take receiver Chris Olave with the 11th pick. The former Ohio State standout joins former Buckeye Michael Thomas in the wide receiver room

Cut 16 (13)  “…going.”

With the 19th overall pick, the Saints selected Northern Iowa offensive tackle Trevor Penning. Penning is known for having a nasty side…

Cut 17 (17) “ …get ready to compete.” 

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The New Orleans Pelicans led by 10 at the half, but ultimately fell to the Phoenix Suns, 115-109, losing their opening round playoff series four games to two. It was a tough conclusion to a season that took the Pels from a 1-12 start to pushing the NBA’s top team nearly to the limit. Herb Jones gave his thoughts on the journey.

Cut 18 (18) “ …did this year.” 

Like his mentor Monty Williams, Pels head coach Willie Green was able to lead New Orleans to the playoffs in his first season on the bench, something that seemed impossible just two months ago. Jones explained how the team fed off of Green’s positive energy during its postseason push.

Cut 19 (18) _“…off his energy.” 

Jose Alvarado came off the bench to score 11 points to go along with four assists, three rebounds. and two steals. Following the loss, the undrafted rookie, who went from two-player to a major contributor, talked about the influence Willie Green had on him this season…

Cut 20 (17) “ …the whole time.” 

The Senate votes down legislation requiring cable and internet providers to provide refunds to customers without service for over 24 hours during a declared disaster. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “…I’m Jeff Palermo.”

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Efforts to raise the state’s minimum wage failed to get the support of the House Labor Committee. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (33)…I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The Louisiana Public Service Commission made headway this week in an effort to help close the digital divide in North Louisiana. Northeast Louisiana Power Cooperative will be the first utility co-op to supply internet service to their customers, PSC Chair Lambert Boissiere says it’s historic…

Cut 3 (09) “…internet existed.”

Boissiere says this will help individuals who lacked broadband and also businesses that need access to remain competitive in Northeast Louisiana.  He says federal infrastructure grants laid the groundwork for the private-public partnership.

Commissioner Foster Campbell says Northeast Louisiana Power Co-Op will supply broadband for members in seven northeast parishes.

Cut 4  (09) “…the poorest.”

According to the 2022 Louisiana Survey about three-fourths of homes in the state have broadband internet access.  LSU Public Policy Research Director Mike Henderson says of the remaining 25-percent who don’t, 40-percent say it’s not available and 60-percent say it’s too expensive.

Cut 5  (06) “…to them.”

And while the approval of the state’s first co-op to provide broadband access to rural northeast Louisiana is significant, Henderson says for areas of the state that have the service it’s a premium that many can’t afford.

Cut 6  (11) “…the cost.” 

The Louisiana Survey polled 508 adults from February 21^st to March 14^th.

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A bill to require automatic refunds to a customer if their cable or internet is out for more than 24 hours during a declared disaster is dead for the session. The Senate rejected the proposal on a 23-15 vote. Houma Senator Mike Fesi is concerned this proposal could actually result in higher cable and internet bills

Cut 7 (12) “…be a problem.” 

Baton Rouge Senator Cleo Fields argued customers should never be forced to pay for a service they do not receive. But River Ridge Senator Kirk Talbot says just because your cable is out on your television, some providers offer other ways to watch…

Cut 8 (10) “…on your phone.” 

There’s a push to increase broadband internet in rural areas and Minden Senator Robert Mills expressed concern this measure could impact those efforts…

Cut 9 (06) “…with this”

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LSU cornerback Derek Stingley is a strong candidate to be taken in the top 10 of the NFL Draft, which starts tonight. Stingley has been on the NFL’s radar since he stepped onto the LSU campus in 2019. His coach at Dunham High School in Baton Rouge, Neil Weiner, says he’s been hearing from teams for years looking for inside info on the budding star.

Cut 10 (08) “…would reach out.”

Stingley has been considered a first-rounder since he dominated the SEC as a freshman for the 2019 national champions. Weiner said that he has always been ahead of his time, dating back to his earliest workouts in the summer before his first year at Dunham.

Cut 11 (12)  “…13-year-old.” 

By Stingley’s third year of high school, he was already one of the most sought-after athletes in the country and Weiner says he knew that Stingley had the ability to reach the NFL and become one of the best in the game. Tonight, Derek Stingley Jr. should take the first steps on that journey.

Cut 12 (10) “…state of Louisiana.”  

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Once again the House Labor Committee voted down proposals to increase the minimum wage. Bossier City Representative Raymond Crews says he’s concerned that increasing the minimum wage from the current $7.25 an hour will result in job losses…

Cut 13 (10) “…the workplace.”

Baton Rouge Representative Denise Marcelle disagrees that a higher minimum wage will lead to fewer jobs…

Cut 14 (09)  “…jobs are there.”

Marcelle believes raising the minimum wage will lead to more people entering the workforce and she had a proposal to increase the minimum wage to 12-dollars an hour…

Cut 15 (12) “…at your job” 

As we’ve seen in years past, business groups lobbied against minimum wage hike proposals. Jim Patterson with the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry on why the state should not raise the minimum wage…

Cut  16 (08)  “…their businesses“