District Attorney Warren Montgomery held a brief press conference where he announced former St. Tammany Parish Sherriff Jack Strain had been charged with rape, incest, and other crimes…

Cut 1 (32) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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A new law helps first responders get the mental healthcare they need if they suffer from PTSD. Matt Doyle spoke with the man who wrote it…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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Officials from Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas are meeting today in Bossier City to discuss disaster mitigation from river flooding.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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Former St. Tammany Parish Sheriff Jack Strain has been booked on charges of rape, incest, indecent behavior with a juvenile, and sexual battery.

District Attorney Warren Montgomery says in the fall of 2017 he was presented with evidence that Strain had engaged in sex crimes.

Cut 4 (09) “…in prison”

The evidence was brought to Montgomery by Louisiana State Police, the FBI, and the IRS. The evidence arose out of a separate investigation into a work release kickback program that is still underway.

Legal analyst Tim Meche says the publicity has prompted concerns about whether the trial should even be held in St. Tammany.

Cut 5 (11) “…decision.”

Strains 20 year run as parish sheriff ended in 2016.

Meche believes the case is defensible, because some of the allegations are more than 40 years old, and the alleged victims, according to media reports, appear to have credibility problems. He says the same charges may not have been brought against the average citizen…

Cut 6 (10) “politician.”

The indictments allege four separate victims, two under the age of 12. Some of the crimes are alleged to have occurred while Strain was in office

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The DOTD is in the process of establishing the rules to the issuance of permits for the statewide framework for rideshare services like Lyft and Uber.  DOTD Secretary Shawn Wilson says he expects the process to be done by the end of the year.

Cut 7 (10) “…an annual basis.”

Wilson says he uses the platforms often, adding he is looking forward to enabling more citizens to have the same ability.

Cut 8 (08) “…to Point B”

Wilson says while the DOTD is regulating rideshare, he believes individual responsibility and driver responsibility will play a big role in modeling the service after other states.

Cut 9 (06) “…service will be.”

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PTSD has been added to the list of covered injuries for public sector first responders, giving them the ability to get worker’s comp coverage for the illness.

Bossier City Senator Ryan Gatti wrote the law that was signed by Governor Edwards, and says previous policy made a nightmare situation for many first responders suffering from PTSD even worse…

Cut 10 (10) “…obvious.”

The National Alliance for Mental Health estimates 3.5 percent of US adults suffer from PTSD.

Gatti says the old policy was a relic from a time when the importance of mental health wasn’t fully appreciated.

Cut 11 (12) “…it up.”

The Senator added he was shocked during the legislative process because they were still some who said, “what if these guys are faking it?” and asked if there were other ways people could cope with PTSD.

Gatti says if you are a first responder suffering from PTSD, take action and talk to your higher ups because the earlier you start seeking treatment, the better your outcomes…

Cut 12 (11) “…immediately.”

Studies indicate there have been more PTSD linked suicides among first responders in recent years than there have been deaths in the line of duty.

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The Louisiana Watershed Initiative is hosting an Interstate Summit on watershed management with representatives from Arkansas, Mississippi, and Texas in an effort to mitigate flood risks.  State Office of Community executive director Pat Forbes says many of the rivers within Louisiana originate from neighboring states.

Cut 13 (10) “…might work together.”

The event in Bossier City is the first of its kind in Louisiana.  Forbes says towns and parishes already work together in combatting flood risks, now it’s time to further the efforts by working with other states.

Cut 14 (12) “…or a town.”

Forbes says Congress has allocated $1.2 billion in federal dollars as a result of the 2016 flooding that are helping to avoid future disasters.

Cut 15 (06) “this watershed initiative.”

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Saints and defensive end Cam Jordan have reportedly agreed on a three-year, 52-million dollarcontract extension. Jordan spoke with reporters after Tuesday’s minicamp practice and said nothing has been signed yet, but he wants to finish his career with the Black and Gold

Cut 16  (12) “…me out”  

The new deal would keep Jordan under contract in New Orleans through the 2023 season. The former first-round pick is entering his ninth season and the Arizona native says he’s a New Orleanian now…

cut 17 (17) “.the city” 

The 29-year-old has recorded 25 sacks over the last two seasons, but he’s still going after the ultimate team goal

Small business optimism is up, but the National Federation of Independent Business calls for a change in the governor’s mansion in the fall election. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (28) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

The governor’s race four years ago was a bloodbath that featured a slate of Republicans who tore into former Senator David Vitter, over his personal life. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says don’t expect that level of venom this year.

Cut 4 (10) “…philosophy”

Governor Edwards signed legislation today that will bring ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft statewide. Previously, ridesharing services only operated in the state’s major cities and not present in many rural and suburban communities, or Alexandria. Uber spokesperson Evangeline George says they had success expanding into rural areas once similar legislation passed in other states.

Cut 10 (10) “…button.”

A Houma man is dead after State Police say he wrecked his car into a tree following another crash where he fled the scene. Trooper Jared Sandifer says 44-year-old Ricky Giroir Jr. was driving a Dodge Durango southbound on Highway 315 in Terrebonne when the initial crash happened.

Cut 12 (10)   “…that fatal crash.”

Sandifer says investigators are uncertain why Girior fled from the initial crash, adding the investigation continues.

Governor Edwards signed legislation today that will bring ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft statewide. But the service will not be immediately ready in communities that were not already receiving the service. Uber spokesperson Evangeline George says there are a few steps left to be completed.
Cut 11 (08) “…the law”
Previously, ridesharing services only operated in the state’s major cities and not present in many rural and suburban communities, or Alexandria.
A Houma man is dead after State Police say he wrecked his car into a tree following another crash where he fled the scene. Trooper Jared Sandifer says 44-year-old Ricky Giroir Jr. was driving a Dodge Durango southbound on Highway 315 in Terrebonne when the initial crash happened. Sandifer adds it is never a good idea to leave the scene of an accident.

Cut 14 (07) “…even more serious.” 

With the legislative session in the books, the state’s political focus shifts to the governor’s race and the October 12^th primary.  It’s been a quiet race so far, with little ad spending from Governor Edwards and his two Republican opponents, but political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says expect that to change, and soon…

Cut 3 (12) “…August.”

A run-off would be necessary if none of the three candidates earn more than 50 percent of the vote.

The National Federation of Independent Business says their hoping for a new governor in the fall, but in the meantime small business optimism is up according to their latest survey.   NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says business owners in Louisiana are feeling better now that the 2019 legislative session is in the rearview mirror.

Cut 6 (07) “…any damage anymore.”

With the legislative session in the books, the state’s political focus shifts to the governor’s race and the October 12^th primary. Political analyst Bernie Pinsonat expects the race to remain fairly positive, but there’s three major candidates, and likely only one Republican will make it through to a potential November 16^th run-off. As the clock ticks down and a GOP frontrunner emerges, there’s a chance the odd Republican out could start getting feisty.

Cut 5 (12) “attacking.”

A run-off would be necessary if none of the three candidates earn more than 50 percent of the vote.

the National Federation of Independent Business says their hoping for a new governor in the fall, but in the mean time small business optimism is up according to their latest survey. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says in addition to the wrap up of the legislative session, the new tax code on the national level is contributing to the rise.

Cut 7 (10) “…into their business.”

Governor Edwards signed legislation today that will bring ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft statewide. Uber spokesperson Evangeline George says this law will help increase tourism throughout the state as there are visitors who are interested in seeing more than just the big city sights.

Cut 9 (07) “…Louisiana.”

Previously, ridesharing services only operated in the state’s major cities and not present in many rural and suburban communities.

A Houma man is dead after State Police say he wrecked his car into a tree following another crash where he fled the scene. Trooper Jared Sandifer says 44-year-old Ricky Giroir Jr. was driving a Dodge Durango southbound on Highway 315 in Terrebonne when the initial crash happened. Sandifer says investigators are uncertain why Girior fled from the initial crash, adding the investigation continues.

Cut 13 (08) “…sample was taken.” 

With the legislative session in the books, the state’s political focus shifts to the governor’s race and the October 12^th primary ballot. It’s been a quiet race so far, with little ad spending from Governor Edwards and his two Republican opponents, but political analyst Bernie Pinsonat says expect that to change, and soon…

Cut 3 (12) “…August.”

Governor Edwards is challenged by Congressman Ralph Abraham and Baton Rouge businessman Eddie Rispone.

Small business optimism is up according to the National Federation of Independent Business. NFIB State Director Dawn Starns says in addition to the wrap up of the legislative session, the new tax code on the national level is contributing to the rise.

Cut 7 (10) “…into their business.”

Governor Edwards is set to sign legislation that will start the process of OKing ride share services like Uber and Lyft statewide.Uber spokesperson Evangeline George says authorizing Ubers across the state will expand tourism access for visitors who are interested in seeing more than just the big city sights.

Cut 9 (07) “…Louisiana.”

Previously Uber only operated in the state’s major cities and was not present in many rural and suburban communities, or Alexandria.

Small business optimism is up according to the National Federation of Independent Business.   NFIB Louisiana spokesperson Dawn Starns says business owners in Louisiana area feeling better now that the 2019 legislative session is in the rearview mirror.
Cut 6 (07) “…any damage anymore.”
Starns says the new tax code on the national level also contributes to the rise.

If a recent forecast is any indication, the 2019 Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico may be the second largest on record.  The zone, which is estimated to be about the size of New Jersey, is an area with very little oxygen.  LSU Professor Dr. Nancy Rabalais says the higher nitrogen levels in the Mississippi River come from fertilizer and chemical runoff from large farms along the river.
Cut 12 (10) “…not much happening.”
The dead zone is not a danger to humans.

2020 Louisiana Democratic Presidential Primary voters will be weighing in later in the season than usual after the state’s primary date gets pushed back…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

A Jennings man is in jail accused of stealing crawfish. Sheriff’s deputies in Jefferson Davis Parish have made the arrest of 22 year old John Coleman, after he allegedly nabbed eleven sacks of crawfish from a cooler. Coleman admitted to detectives that he took the mudbugs and is now being held without bond.

The Louisiana Democratic Presidential Primary has been pushed back a month to April 4^th, 2020, making this cycle’s Louisiana primary the latest in two decades.  That could leave the state voting after a primary winner has all but been decided, but Louisiana Democratic Party Executive Chairman Stephen Handwerk says there is a bonus to voting later…
Cut 4 (10) “…that month”
On the heels of Governor Edwards’ signature of abortion restrictions, a poll is out showing 42 percent of Democratic voters would like another Democrat to challenge the incumbent in the gubernatorial race.  UL Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says the poll does provide some good news for Edwards. 60 percent of Democrats opposed his signing of the restrictions, but some of those pro-choice Democrats seem to still be in his corner.
Cut 9 (07) “…anyway.”  We Ask America, who ran the poll, is reportedly a Republican friendly polling firm.

If a recent forecast is any indication, the 2019 Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico may be the second largest on record.  The zone, which is estimated to be about the size of New Jersey, is an area with very little oxygen.  LSU Professor Dr. Nancy Rabalais says the swelling Mississippi River levels are to blame for the near-record size.

Cut 10 (07) “…high this year.”

The dead zone is not a danger to humans.

The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is urging everyone in southwest Louisiana to participate in a hurricane evacuation study conducted by LSU’s Stephenson Disaster Management Institute. Institute Director Brant Mitchell says the survey will take place by phone and will take about 18 minutes to complete. The polling helps to determine how accurate the evacuation times are with current zoning.

Cut 14 (08) “…support that population.”

2020 Louisiana Democratic Presidential Primary voters will be weighing in later in the season than usual after the state’s primary date gets pushed back…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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A poll shows two in five Louisiana Democrats would like to see another Democrat challenge Governor Edwards in the fall race. Matt Doyle has more.

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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LSU’s Stephenson Disaster Management Institute is conducting a hurricane evacuation study that could result in more efficient plans for evacuating southwest Louisiana.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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The Louisiana Democratic Presidential Primary has been pushed back a month to April 4^th, 2020, making this cycle’s Louisiana primary the latest in two decades.

That could leave the state voting after a primary winner has all but been decided, but Louisiana Democratic Party Executive Chairman Stephen Handwerk says there is a bonus to voting later…

Cut 4 (10) “…that month”

Handwerk says he’s not afraid that moving the primary back will mean fewer options for Louisiana voters as the field narrows. He adds that with a competitive primary field of over 20 candidates…

Cut 5 (07) “…Louisiana.”

Polls show former Vice President Joe Biden leading the pack, followed by Senators Bernie Sanders, Kamala Harris, and Elizabeth Warren, and South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg.

Analysts say you can get a pretty clear picture of who is going to be the nominee after the March primaries are finished, but Handwerk says with record breaking fundraising, Louisiana’s later date could set it up for some serious attention…

Cut 6 (12) “…to us.”

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On the heels of Governor Edwards’ signature of abortion restrictions, a poll is out showing 42 percent of Democratic voters would like another Democrat to challenge the incumbent in the gubernatorial race.

UL Lafayette political science professor Pearson Cross says an ambitious, pro-choice Democrat could pose a serious threat to Edwards’ reelection chances, and put their name on the map nationally, but…

Cut 7 (12) “…the party.”

Edwards received widespread condemnation from national Democrats for his signature of the fetal heartbeat abortion ban passed by the legislature.

Only 43 percent of Democrats say they would not like to see another Democrat, and Cross says Edwards’ signature of those abortion restrictions has presented a new challenge for his re-election effort.

Cut 8 (12) “…area.”

Among Democrats under 35-years-old, 64 percent support having another Dem option in the race.

Cross says the poll does provide some good news for Edwards. 60 percent of Democrats opposed his signing of the restrictions, but some of those pro-choice Democrats seem to still be in his corner.

Cut 9 (07) “…anyway.”

We Ask America, who ran the poll, is reportedly a Republican friendly polling firm.

___________________________________________________

If a recent forecast is any indication, the 2019 Dead Zone in the Gulf of Mexico may be the second largest on record.  The zone, which is estimated to be about the size of New Jersey, is an area with very little oxygen.  LSU Professor Dr. Nancy Rabalais says the swelling Mississippi River levels are to blame for the near-record size.

Cut 10 (07) “…high this year.”

Researchers will be mapping out the hypoxic area coming up next month.

Rabalais says the low oxygen levels in the Gulf can impact shrimpers as they may stay closer to shore and get smaller shrimp that are not worth much money, or choose to go further offshore beyond the dead zone.

Cut 11 (09) “…imports as well.”

Rabalais says the higher nitrogen levels in the river come from fertilizer and chemical runoff from large farms along the river.

Cut 12 (10) “…not much happening.”

The dead zone is not a danger to humans.

_________________

The Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness is urging everyone in southwest Louisiana to participate in a hurricane evacuation study conducted by LSU’s Stephenson Disaster Management Institute. Institute Director Brant Mitchell says the survey is looking for information to better assist in evacuation operations.

Cut 13 (11) “be taking pets.”

Mitchell says the survey will take place by phone and will take about 18 minutes to complete. The polling helps to determine how accurate the evacuation times are with current zoning.

Cut 14 (08) “…support that population.”

Mitchell says these types of surveys happen in other hurricane-prone areas as well.

Cut 15 (09) “prepare emergency responders.”

Calls will be made to those living in Acadia, Assumption, Calcasieu, Cameron, Iberia, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, St. Martin, St. Mary, and Vermillion Parishes.

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It was a disappointing end to the 2019 LSU baseball season as the Tigers failed to live up their number one preseason ranking. But Tiger Rag Editor James Moran says 2020 LSU baseball team will be a contender for the College World Series again next year

Cut 16  (21) “…be the key”  

LSU could have a starting rotation of Cole Henry, Landon Marceaux, Jaden Hill and Eric Walker next season, plus Matt Beck and Devin Fontenot return as key relievers. Moran says that has the makings of a strong pitching staff…

cut 17 (19) “.all year” 

Moran says a key to next year’s team success is the development of Gavin Dugas and Drew Bianco, as they will likely be starting infielders next season. He says the incoming freshmen that will play a role on next year’s team are Denham Springs shortstop Cade Doughty, Memphis outfielder and football star Maurice Hampton and former Airline star Hayden Travinski, who has power in his bat

A cold front will bring the Bayou State cooler temperatures and lower humidity for the next few days. Davyon Hill with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says says the heat and humidity will return Friday afternoon, so get outside the next few days and enjoy this brief return to spring like weather…

Cut 5 (12) “…several days.”

The battle to deter hazing on college campuses continues with a bill on the way to the Governor’s desk authored by Lafayette Representative Nancy Landry.  It revises the state’s current anti-hazing laws based on the recommendations of law enforcement, and requires organizations to report hazing much sooner in the process. Landry says with the changes, campus police are allowed to take their hazing investigation beyond the campus.

Cut 14 (12) “…hazing perpetrators are.” 

The 2019 Legislative Session marks the first increase in base funding for higher education in a decade. Lawmakers appropriated an additional 47-million dollars to help with mandated costs for universities and colleges. Higher Ed Commissioner Kim Hunter Reed says lawmakers were attentive to their issues…

Cut 9 (10) “….to do that.”

On the heels of Governor Edwards’ signature of abortion restrictions, a poll is out showing 42 percent of Democratic voters would like another Democrat to challenge the incumbent in the gubernatorial race. Only 43 percent of Democrats say they would not like to see another Democrat, Among Democrats under 35-years-old, 64 percent support having another Dem option in the race. 60 percent of Democrats opposed his signing of the restrictions. We Ask America, who ran the poll, is reportedly a Republican friendly polling firm.

Governor Edwards signs legislation allowing eyewitness identification experts the right to testify in criminal trials. Innocence Project New Orleans Staff Attorney Kia Hayes says this policy brings the state in line with most other states and could cut down on the instances of false identifications. Before last Wednesday…

Cut 6 (12) “…identification”

Hayes says 28 people that they know of, have been convicted on a case of mistaken identity.
A cold front will bring the Bayou State cooler temperatures and lower humidity for the next few days. Davyon Hill with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says it’s rare to see a cold front in Louisiana in June

Cut 3 (12) “…exceptions.”

The battle to deter hazing on college campuses continues with a bill on the way to the Governor’s desk authored by Lafayette Representative Nancy Landry.  It revises the state’s current anti-hazing laws based on the recommendations of law enforcement.  Landry says among the changes is the amount of time given to organizations to report hazing activity to law enforcement.

Cut 12 (10)   “…week grace period.”

The 2019 Legislative Session marks the first increase in base funding for higher education in a decade. Lawmakers appropriated an additional 47-million dollars to help with mandated costs for universities and colleges. Higher Ed Commissioner Kim Hunter Reed says the focus of higher ed will continue to be on affordability, innovation and expansion of talent development in Louisiana.

Cut 11 (09) “…in new ways.”