A new report indicates Louisiana prisons utilize solitary confinement four times more than the national average. Matt Doyle spoke with one of the authors…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle.”

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Golf cart legislation allowing the vehicles to cross state highways in the town of Church Point is among the first six bills from 2019 session to be vetoed by Gov. Edwards, catching the bill’s authored by surprise. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (31) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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A report finds Louisiana has a four times higher rate of the use of solitary confinement for prisoners than the national average. Loyola Jesuit Social Research Institute Research Fellow Dr. Sue Weishar says they surveyed prisoners in solitary, and 77 percent reported stays of more than a year. She says that’s torture.

Cut 3 (11) “…hopelessness”

The survey was based on responses from 709 inmates who were in solitary confinement at the state’s nine prisons.

Weishar says the practice undermines the goal of rehabilitation because the intense mental and physical stress created by extended stays creates long term damage.

Cut 4 (09) “…entered.”

30 percent of respondents to the survey reported solitary confinement of more than five years.

Weishar says the abnormally high rate of solitary use is the result of poor policy from the Department of Corrections, and the report authors are demanding change.

Cut 5 (10) “…the most”

Corrections responded, saying 3.75 percent of prisoners are in “restrictive housing” at the moment, and the number of those beds has been reduced by a thousand over the last two years reforms.

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A bill that would have allowed golf carts to cross LA 35 and other state highways within the town limits of Church Point is one of six the governor has vetoed from the 2019 legislative session.  Rep. Phillip DeVillier says the town had a well thought out plan for permitting as they want to be more golf cart friendly.

Cut 6 (10) “…around 5000 people.”

DeVillier says he is disappointed Governor Edwards killed the bill as the safety concerns were addressed because the proposed law said drivers had to be 18, with a valid driver’s license, carry insurance on the golf cart, and the vehicle must be equipped with proper lighting.

DeVillier adds he was caught off guard by the veto and says the Governor had voted in favor of similar bills in other communities during his time as a lawmaker.

Cut 7 (12) “…bit of respect.”

DeVillier says the measure may have a future in another legislative session.

Cut 8 (09) “…to do something.”

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The Louisiana Health Department announces they’ve reached a “subscrpition model” deal with Asegua Therapeutics that will result in the state treating an estimated 31-thousand people who have hepatitics C, which is an infectious liver disease. Health Secretary Rebekah Gee

Cut 9 (09) “to work.”

There are at least 39-thousand people in Louisiana’s Medicaid program and prison system who suffer from Hepatitis C, which kills more people than all other infectious diseases combined.

Curing a person of Hepatitis C costs an estimated 24-thousand dollars per treatment, but Gee says under this deal, Louisiana will receive an unlimited supply of Hep C medication for five years at a cost of 58-million dollars a year

Cut 10 (08) “…this illness.”

Gee says this innovative payment model cuts down on the cost of treating tens of thousands of individuals who have Hepatitis C

Cut 11 (08) “liver cancer”

_____________________

Newly minted Pelican Zion Williamson arrived in town to a housewarming gift of a framed, signed jersey from Saints QB Drew Brees, a note welcoming him to the city, and a challenge.

Zion is probably the most nationally hyped athlete to ever play in New Orleans, and Brees welcomed the phenom by inviting him to become the new favored son of New Orleans sports…

Cut 12 (09)   “…do it.”

Williamson created his own catchphrase “Let’s Dance” after the draft that’s become the go-to hashtag for all things Pelicans. Brees is clearly a fan of the 18-year-old’s calling card.

Cut 13 (11) “…man”  

The 6’7 280-pound power forward was visibly shocked and grinning ear to ear as he took in the moment, and celebrated the gift.

Cut 14 (11) “…sheesh” 

The Pelicans posted video of the moment on their twitter feed.

The first Senate Committee hearing on the Lower Health Care Costs Act of 2019 takes place today. It’s a legislative package that Sen. Bill Cassidy is playing a big part in. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart.”

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An atmospheric layer of dust from the Sarahan Desert has fallen over the central gulf region, bringing with it beautiful sunsets, but the potential for respiratory issues…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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New legislation signed into law will make it possible to have alcohol delivered with your food order. Kevin Barnhart has the details.

Cut 3 (31) “…I’m Kevin Barnhart”

____________

Senator Bill Cassidy says a proposal to end surprise medical billing, lower the cost of prescription drugs, increase transparency in the healthcare system, and secure a patient’s personal data will get a hearing in front of a Senate committee today. Cassidy says the Lower Health Care Costs Act of 2019 faces hurdles but has a good chance of reaching the President’s desk.

Cut 4 (09) “…what is in the bill.”

Cassidy says a second Senate committee hearing will take place in July.  If both committees pass the measure, it heads to the Senate floor.

Cut 5 (07)“…it into law.”

Cassidy says the measure ultimately comes down having better health outcomes.

Cut 6 (09) “…will be healthier.”
 ________________________________________

The Saharan Air Layer, when dust from the Saharan Desert in Africa gets kicked up and swept into the atmosphere, has descended on Louisiana.

State Climatologist Barry Keim says the dust can create some respiratory issues for more allergy prone people, but does come with some interesting optics…

Cut 7 (09) “…situation .”

Louisiana sees about one to two SAL events a year.

While it may frustrate some allergy sufferers and create a somewhat strange milky white effect in otherwise blue skies, Keim says there is a beautiful side effect to the weather phenomena.

Cut 8 (10) “…sunrise.”

The dust itself can be found about a mile up in the air and can stretch as far as four miles into the atmosphere. Keim says the massive blanket of dust has taken an epic journey to get here.

Cut 9 (10) “…miles.”

He adds the blanket should keep tropical activity at bay for the next week or so.

__________________________________

Louisiana’s Hepatitis A outbreak is growing, with 305 cases reported dating back to the outbreak that was declared in December of last year. Assistant State Health Officer Dr. Joseph Kanter says while we haven’t seen outbreaks in the thousands like some of our neighbors, it’s still a significantly more cases than normal.

Cut 10 (12) “…for us.”

Kanter says nationally, since the outbreak was declared in 2016 there’s been about 20,000 cases.

LDH is pushing back, hoping to contain the outbreak through vaccinations before the state sees an even more dramatic rise in cases by focusing on the two highest risk groups.

Cut 11 (11) “…drugs.”

Kanter recommends talking to your doctor about possibly getting vaccinated if you think you might be at risk.

Kanter says most cases of Hep A do not leave the patient with long term damage, but getting infected can be a really unpleasant experience.

Cut 12 (12) “sick.”

_________________

The Governor has signed into law a bill authored by Shreveport Representative Thomas Carmody allowing delivery services to bring low alcohol content adult beverages along with a food order to your front door.  Carmody says there is a catch, as only W-2 employees of delivery services can make the drop-offs, which disqualifies several popular services.

Cut 13 (08) “…has W-2 employees.”

Another bill from Belle Chasse Representative Chris Leopold allowing grocery and liquor stores to hire their own drivers to make deliveries has also been signed into law.

Carmody predicts that the availability of the service will be very popular.

Cut 14 (09) “…container of alcohol.”

Carmody says the law will have restrictions on the type of alcohol delivered as the beverages must be factory sealed.

Cut 15 (06) “…bill would provide.”

The booze also cannot be delivered to a home if it is on a college campus.

______________________________________

LSU allowed 35 sacks last season, tied with Texas A-and-M for most given up in the SEC. New passing game coordinator Joe Brady’s plan for next season is not to keep more blockers in the backfield, but for starting quarterback Joe Burrow to get rid of the ball quicker…

Cut 16  (16) “…can do”  

The 29-year-old Brady was hired in January to work with offensive coordinator Steve Ensminger on developing an offense that will contain more run-pass option schemes. Brady says the offense is completely implemented, but it’s not a finished product…

cut 17 (17) “.with that stuff” 

Brady on what LSU fans will see this fall

The LSU Vet School is receiving viral fame after equipping a turtle with wheels. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kevin Barnhart”

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A Natchez, Mississippi school teacher was brutally robbed and murdered just across the state line while visiting family in Louisiana. Matt Doyle reports two suspects are in jail

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Personal income growth was up four-percent in the first quarter of the year, outpacing the national average according to the Bureau of Economic Analysis. The governor’s office says the income growth rate was even higher than Texas. Economic Development Secretary Don Pierson says its evidence the state is headed in the right direction.

Cut 3 (10) “…the future.”

The four percent increase means Louisianans personal income grew by more than two-billion-dollars.

The news comes on the heels of an announcement by Coast Professional call center in West Monroe adding 146 jobs. Pierson says good paying jobs will be created through the  750,000-dollar expansion…

Cut 4 (09) “…area.”

Pierson says the state’s FastStart workforce program will guide recruitment…

Cut 5 (11) “…to play.”

Coast Professional will renovate a former Sears Hometown store to accomodate the new workforce.

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Video of a box turtle missing his rear legs has gone viral after getting a new set of wheels courtesy of some clever LSU veterinarians. LSU Vet School spokesperson Ginger Guttner says medically, Pedro the turtle was fine, but zoological medicine intern Dr. Kelly Rockwell was up for the challenge of improving his mobility.

Cut 6 (10) “…look at toys.”

Guttner says using a Lego car kit, the vet school team came up with the best way to attach the new wheels.

Cut 7 (10) “…snaps into that.”

Guttner says the story has since spread like wildfire, gaining Pedro and the vet school plenty of media attention.

Cut 8 (08) “…resonated with people.”

Pedro’s family had adopted the turtle when he was missing only one leg, but following an escape from his enclosure and being on the lam for a bit, when he returned, he didn’t have either of his hind legs.

____________________________________

2,300 of the state’s best teachers have begun specialized training aimed at preparing them to be mentors to new educators and struggling students.

Assistant Superintendent Hannah Dietsch says the program will give experienced educators the tools to be able to better prepare their rookie peers for those first, challenging years in the classroom.

Cut 9 (10) “teachers.”

881 of the teachers are training to take on the classroom role of “Mentor Teachers”, who directly coach new educators, and 752 are training to become “Content Leaders”, who deliver professional development.

Dietsch says this is the first year they’re offering training for interested educators who would like to specialize in academic interventions for low performing students who may come from at-risk backgrounds.

Cut 10 (12) “…their peers.”

Dietsch says encouraging experienced teachers to reach out and help develop aspiring educators who are still seeking their certification will ensure more of those teaching candidates make it through the process.

Cut 11 (09) “students”

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Two men are behind bars for allegedly robbing and murdering a Natchez, Mississippi school teacher and then burying his body under garbage in an abandoned Ferriday food plant. Concordia Parish Chief Deputy David Hedrick says the victim, Fred McCray Jr., apparently met the suspects who said they needed a ride.

Cut 12 (11)   “…murder.”

Hedrick says they do not believe McCray was targeted.

48-year-old Jimmy Lewis of Ferriday and Cedric Tennessee are facing first-degree murder charges. Hedrick says there’s probably no way McCray could have known these two were planning the brutal crime…

Cut 13 (11) “…trust”  

McCray was visiting family across just across the state line after wrapping up his first year as an educator at Morgantown Middle School in Natchez, where he was named one of the district’s top ten teachers. Hedrick says McCray was a person who was going places…

Cut 14 (06) “…of him” 

McCray was also working on his Doctorate.

43-year-old Franklin Welzbacher was arrested after allegedly stealing some items from a neighbor’s garage, including a live streaming surveillance camera that he forgot to turn off…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Swarms of bugs are causing lower visibility at times for those crossing Lake Pontchartrain.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (32) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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A Haughton man was arrested after allegedly stealing items from his neighbor’s garage, including a live streaming surveillance camera he didn’t turn off.  Bossier Sheriff’s Lt. Bill Davis says the victim installed the camera because his garage door was malfunctioning, which led to the theft by 43-year-old Franklin Welzbacher…

Cut 3 (12) “…House”

The victim is accusing Welzbacher of also taking some workout equipment and boxing gloves.

Davis says after the theft the victim shared the still streaming footage with the deputies, and the Lt. says it made for a pretty open and shut case…

Cut 4 (11) “…live streaming”

Davis says the footage made it easy to catch the thief, and the incident is a good example of how effective a simple surveillance camera can be.

Cut 5 (08) “…badguy.”

Welzbacher was booked on Simple Burglary.

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Many motorists crossing the Causeway Bridge in New Orleans are hitting the car wash after swarms of bugs left marks on their vehicles. The insects are known as the non-biting midge.  Research Entomologist Ed Freytag says the high numbers are likely due to the opening of the Bonnet Carre Spillway.

Cut 6 (10) “…not salty anymore.”

The bugs do not pose a health risk to humans and only live three to five days.  Freytag says it’s uncertain how much longer these swarms will occur.

Cut 7 (11) “…still coming out.”

Freytag says many of the bugs being hit are carrying eggs, and not washing them off a vehicle as soon as possible to have detrimental effects on a car’s aesthetics.

Cut 8 (10) “…to your paint.”

____________________________________

The Louisiana Office of Alcohol and Tobacco Control is accepting permit applications from retailers who want to sell C-B-D products. A-T-C Commissioner Juana Marine Lombard says they will begin processing applications immediately…

Cut 9 (12) “…C-B-D products”

Once an application is approved, the retailer will receive a temporary permit that will expire at the end of February. In order to receive a permanent permit, L-D-H must certify the product and C-B-D. Lombard says state law prohibits the sale of any alcoholic beverage containing C-B-D

Cut 10 (09) “…food and beverages.”

Lombard says C-B-D can only be added to food if approved by the F-D-A and C-B-D can’t be marketed as a dietary supplement and the labeling cannot make medical claims

Cut 11 (10) “…are making.”

__________________________ –

Five Louisiana nursing homes are in hot water after a report by the Center for Medicaid and Medicare services shows poor conditions and subpar treatment of patients.

Louisiana Department of Health spokesperson Bob Johannessen says it’s the first time the feds have made the annual report public, and it’s important information for families…

Cut 12 (11)   “…needs.”

The list identified over 400 problem facilities nationwide.

The list of concerns includes incidents of staff abuse, failure to follow vital healthcare protocol, unsanitary living conditions and a number of other disturbing reports. Johannessen says when it comes to choosing a nursing home…

Cut 13 (09) “…homes”  

Tioga Community Care Center, St. Helena Parish Nursing Home, Lake Charles Care Center, South Lafourche Nursing and Rehab, and Belle Maison Nursing Home were named.

Belle Maison Nursing Home in Hammond is a repeat offender, and has been given a “special focus” designation. Johannessen says that will likely lead to improved care, because most facilities only get an annual inspection…

Cut 14 (06) “…months” 

In 2017 Belle Maison was reported for failing to protect a paraplegic patient from repeated violent attacks by their roommate, and failing to follow ulcer prevention protocol.

Auto insurance rates for Progressive and LA Farm Bureau customers are going down later this summer. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Matt Doyle”

____________________________

A deadly dispute over a man between a woman and her ex’s new love interest results in a 23 year prison sentence. Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (29) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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Progressive and Louisiana Farm Bureau are dropping their auto insurance rates on the heels of the state’s largest insurer, State Farm, also lowering their rates.  Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says the three insurers combined account for just over 50 percent of all Louisiana auto policies…

Cut 3 (08) “…point four”

State Farm owns a third of the state’s policies at a million drivers, Farm Bureau has 220,000 policies, and Progressive owns 175,000.

This comes after a failed attempt to pass legislation in the legislative session that proponents say would have spurred further rate decreases. Donelon says part of the reason for the cuts appears to be a lowered cost of business due to…

Cut 4 (11) “…peak”

The Insurance Commissioner says the rest of the decreases can be chalked up to aggressive moves by insurers to try to undercut the competition for new policies…

Cut 5 (10) “…writers.”

________________________________________________

Three people are dead after an alleged drunk driver slammed into a vehicle that broke down in the middle of the Westbank Expressway in Harvey last night. State Police trooper Monroe Dillon says the three victims were on the upper level of the overpass and standing near the broken-down car when the collision occurred.

Cut 6 (08) “feet drop”

One of the three victims, 49-year-old Claude Williams, was a pastor at Celebration Church. Williams was the driver of the stalled vehicle.

Dillon says they can’t be certain at this point, but it appears some of the victims were bystanders who had responded to the stalled vehicle and were attempting to help before they were killed.

Cut 7 (09) “…roadway.”

The broken-down vehicle was facing oncoming traffic.

Dillon says the deaths are a tragic reminder that if your vehicle begins to break down, do everything you can to get it out of lanes of traffic.

Cut 8 (11) “…travel.”

40-year-old Todd Williams of New Orleans was arrested and booked into prison on several counts, including Vehicular Homicide.

____________________________________

A Houma woman will spend 23 years in prison for stabbing another woman to death in a dispute over a man. The homicide took place in July 2017 at Miranda Gilley’s apartment.  Terrebonne Parish Assistant DA Chris Erny says Gilley pulled out a tactical knife during a physical confrontation.

Cut 9 (08) “…couple of times”

Prosecutors say Gilley had invited the victim, 24-year-old Jessica McGehee, over to her apartment to fight. Gilley claimed she acted in self-defense.  Erny says the jury had several options on the charges, but ultimately decided to go with a lesser charge of manslaughter, which carries a maximum 40-year sentence.

Cut 10 (06) “…still a homicide.”

Erny says he was not surprised by the lack of the maximum sentencing, as they were aiming for 30 years.  The judge’s decision not to give Gilley the maximum sentence came as the result of the defendant’s youth and not having a criminal history.

Cut 11 (11) “…it, she didn’t.”

Gilley will be eligible for parole after 15 years.

__________________________ –

A 15-year-old is dead and two other minors are in critical condition after they were ejected from an SUV in a rollover crash south of Ponchatoula on I-55 last night. State Trooper Dustin Dwight says they suspect the driver, 38-year-old Viola Oliver II, was impaired as she attempted to exit at US 51 when the vehicle began to roll

Cut 12 (11)   “…fatal injuries.”

Oliver was trapped in the vehicle and had to be rescued by the Ponchatoula Fire Department.

None of the children involved appear to have been buckled up, and Dwight says it’s a good reminder that you can get into a lot of trouble for driving kids around who are not clicked in…

Cut 13 (07) “…restrained”  

Dwight says it’s a tragedy that could potentially have been avoided by strapping the kids in with a child safety seat. He adds state police will install them in your vehicle free of charge…

Cut 14 (08) “…correctly” 

15-year-old Solomon Short died from his injuries at a local hospital.

An abnormal number of deaths of bottleneck dolphins in the Northern Gulf of Mexico has prompted NOAA Fisheries to declare an Unusual Mortality Event. Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

____________________________

Investigation Discovery will revisit the mysterious deaths of eight women in Jennings who’s bodies were scattered across southwest Louisiana from 2005 to 2009…

cut 2 (30) I’m Matt Doyle”  

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Over 260 dolphins have been stranded since February 1^st in the Northern Gulf of Mexico, three times the usual amount. The increase has prompted NOAA Fisheries to declare an Unusual Mortality Event. NOAA Fisheries Coordinator Dr. Terri Rowles (Rolls) on what to do if you come into contact with any stranded mammals.

Cut 3 (11) “…it’s illegal”

NOAA is urging you to call 1-877-Whale-Help if you find a stranded dolphin.

Of the mammals they have been able to perform necropsies on 23-percent have shown skin lesions consistent with fresh water. There are concerns the recent openings of the Bonne Carre Spillway has increased the amount of fresh water and pollutants into the Gulf, which could be contributing factors.  Dr. Erin Fougeres (Foo-gere) with NOAA Fisheries Southeast Region.

Cut 4 (08) “…the mortalities”

Also located in the area where the Dolphins have shown an increase of deaths is where the Deepwater Horizon Explosion impacted the gulf in 2010. Dr. Terri Rowles (Rolls) says previous studies have shown abnormal reproduction rates of mammals from the oil spill.

Cut 5 (10) “…from the oil spill.”

Of the 260 recorded dolphin deaths Louisiana has reported 89, Mississippi 121, Alabama 32 and Florida 37.

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Investigation Discovery is running a four-hour special on Saturday and Sunday night on the unsolved murders of eight women in the Jennings area between 2005 and 2009. Ten years later the deaths are unsolved, and ID Executive Producer Liz Massie says they hope their in-depth look can shake loose some leads…

Cut 6 (12) “deserve.”

Not all of the deaths have been ruled murders, and no one was ever charged in the case.

Reports say the women lived “high risk” lifestyles, some of them engaging in heavy drug use or prostitution, but Massie says the special looks beyond the stereotypes to tell the victim’s stories…

Cut 7 (11) “…were.”

The eight bodies were found discarded across backroads and bayous in and around southwest Louisiana.

The series grounds itself by following the sister and niece of one of the victims, Whitnei DuBois. Massie says the two family members and the production team cover the tragedy and track down new leads, which makes for a compelling watch.

Cut 8 (10) “…involved.”

The first half of “Death In The Bayou: The Jennings 8″ airs Saturday at 9PM and covers the details of the murders. The second half airs Sunday at 9PM and follows several theories of why the women disappeared.

____________________________________

Police are on the hunt for 39-year-old Oshay Booker who is believed to have murdered his stepfather, former Winnfield Mayor Ronald “Cloud” Goff in a familial dispute Tuesday. Winn Parish Sheriff Cranford Jordan says believes the suspect fled into Texas.

Cut 9 (12) “…him anything”

The shooting occurred on Spillway Road in Winnfield, and Jordan says they still aren’t certain exactly what provoked the attack.1

Cut 10 (12) “…Texas”

The suspect was last seen driving a Green Honda Pilot.

Jordan says it’s a tragedy for the city, and a personal tragedy as the Sheriff says he knew the former mayor well.

Cut 11 (08) “ saw him”

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Two years ago today, Louisiana Congressman Steve Scalise was one of five people shot when a gunman opened fire on a group of Republican lawmakers while practicing for a charity baseball game. Scalise was struck in the hip and the bullet nearly killed him. In a video message, Scalise says there were many dark days during his long recovery

Cut 12 (09)   “…powerful.”

Scalise underwent numerous surgeries and returned to Congress two and a half months later. The House Minority Whip says thinking back to the day he was shot, still brings out a lot of emotions….

Cut 13 (07) “…who prayed”  

Scalise thanks everyone who prayed for him to recover from his near death experience…

Cut 14 (06) “…everyday.” 

Sons and daughters are predicted to spend an all-time high of 16-billion on Father’s Day gifts this year.  Brooke Thorington has more.

Cut 1 (25) “I’m Brooke Thorington”

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Saints QB Drew Brees returned for the team’s final two minicamp practices after testifying against a San Diego based jeweler who allegedly defrauded him of 6.7 million dollars…

Cut 2 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle.” 

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A southwest Louisiana DA is seeking an execution date of later this summer for a man convicted fifteen years ago of the brutal kidnapping, rape, and murder of a four-year-old…

Cut 3 (30) “…I’m Matt Doyle”

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Dads should expect to hit the mother lode this weekend. According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend more than ever on Father’s Day gifts this year. N-R-F spokesperson Katherine Cullen says they predict spending to reach a high of $16-billion. Cullen says greeting cards are the most popular gift along with

Cut 4 (09) “…this weekend”

Sons and daughters are predicted to spend an average of $139 on gifts this year, an increase of 70-percent since 2009.

Cut 5 (13) “…gift cards.”

Some might choose a more unique idea for dad.

Cut 6 (:08) “the love.”

 ________________________________________

Governor Edwards awards 25 million for a road project in Monroe after a controversy erupted over the legislature not including northeast Louisiana in a signed 700-million-dollar road project plan. Monroe Representative Jay Morris says when the plan to use BP oil money to fund projects was announced in the legislature, politicians from every corner of the state wanted a piece of the action.

Cut 7 (10) “…state.”

The money will fund the Kansas Lane – Garret Road I-20 Interchange.

The legislation initially addressed the LA 415 connector near I-10 and a stretch of highway on LA 1, but quickly expanded to include nearly every portion of the state. Every portion except northeast Louisiana that is…

Cut 8 (06) “…Louisiana”

The plan includes ferries in Lake Charles, cranes at the Port of New Orleans, tens of millions for roads in Shreveport, and more.

A firestorm erupted when the Monroe News-Star ran a headline reading “Monroe snubbed in 700 million dollar infrastructure bill”, but Morris says the Governor found some funds to redirect up north after his office got bombarded with calls…

Cut 9 (10) “…can get.”

___________________________________________________

Saints quarterback Drew Brees made it to minicamp after missing last week’s team activities testifying against a jeweler he has accused of defrauding him of millions of dollars.

The QB says it hurt to miss the first day of minicamp this week while dealing with the legal matter that he alleges resulted in him being defrauded of 6.7 million dollars.

Cut 10 (11) “…it comes.”

Brees testified that Vahid Moradi was a friend who lied to him about the value of diamonds he purchased. Moradi’s lawyer says they were not close, and Brees had an “obsession” for jewelry and was “drawn in like an addict.”

The Black and Gold legend says he’s glad to be back, and he’s moved past the pain of the highly controversial end to last season’s NFC Championship game, but it wasn’t easy at first.

Cut 11 (10) “ a plan.”

The 40-year-old  is on the last year of what may be his last contract, but says he’s still working on a few new tricks, like possibly running some routes when Taysom Hill goes under center…

Cut 12 (07) “…handsome.”

_________________

Calcasieu District Attorney John DeRosier is seeking an August 19th execution date for Jason Manuel Reeves, who was convicted and sentenced to death in 2004 for the abduction of a little girl, who he ended up raping and stabbing 16 times, and then slitting her throat. DeRosier says Reeves deserves to die for what he’s done…

Cut 13 (08) “..than that.”

Four-year-old Mary Jean Thigpen was taken from her family in Moss Bluff on November 1^st, 2001.

DeRosier is a practicing Catholic, but says he disagrees with the church’s position on the death penalty. He feels the Governor’s criminal justice reforms has created an environment where dangerous people are not guaranteed to be locked up forever…

Cut 14 (10) “…church.”

Last month the US Supreme Court denied an appeal by Reeves, which prompted a death warrant from the local prosecutor.

It’s been nine years since the state executed a prisoner, and Louisiana has been unable to find a pharma company willing to supply the chemicals needed for lethal injections to be carried out. DeRosier says between that and legal delays…

Cut 15 (12) “to happen.”

______________________________________

Eight baseball teams will compete in the College World Series this weekend, but LSU Coach Paul Mainieri and his staff are getting ready for 2020. Mainieri says he wants to have more roster balance next season. He says the 2019 roster had 20 pitchers on it, he’ll like to carry 17 or 18 pitchers next season

Cut 16  (25) “…enough”  

LSU will have to replace several position players, Antoine Duplantis, Josh Smith, Chris Reid, Zach Watson and Brandt Broussard. It’s hard to say who will start in the infield next season and Mainieri says the guys who served as back-ups this season are not guaranteed starting spots next year

cut 17 (24) “.two days” 

Mainieri says pitchers Landon Marceaux and, Devin Fontenot will not pitch this summer as they need to rest. The same goes for Cole Henry. The coach hopes Jaden Hill can begin throwing again this summer after missing most of this past season

Drug and suicide deaths have risen sharply among the Millenial generation over the last 20 years, according to a new report…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

____________________________

An NCAA official tells CBS Sports that six schools will learn this summer that they face allegations of major recruiting violations. Could LSU be one of them? Jeff Palermo has more…

cut 2 (30) I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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A highway marker that was just put up to honor Louisiana blues legend Buddy Guy is missing. Pointe Coupee Parish Tourist Commission executive director Jeanie Andre says the roadside marker was last seen on the ground after it was knocked down by a vehicle that drove off the road…

Cut 3 (10) “…it’s missing”

The sign was unveiled on December seventh and it was once standing along LA 418 in Lettsworth, the hometown of the eight-time Grammy award winner. Andre says the tourist attraction means a lot to them

Cut 4 (10) “…safely returned”

Andre says if someone returns the Buddy Guy highway marker no questions will be asked and the person will not face any charges. She says the sheriff’s office is investigating and they hope for a positive outcome…

Cut 5 (09) “…returned.”

________________________________________________

A Trust for America’s Health report shows a dramatic spike in deaths due to drug abuse and suicide over the last twenty years, particularly among young people.

CEO John Auerbach says in 2017 Louisiana had 2,000 deaths from alcohol, drugs, and suicide, a seven percent increase over 2016. He says those rates are some of the worst in the nation.

Cut 6 (10) “to care.”

Drug deaths among Millennials were more than twice as likely to be opioid related then all other drugs combined.

Millennials, those aged 23-38, are disproportionately likely to die by alcohol and drug abuse or suicide. Auerbach says that generation’s bleak economic situation, rising debt loads, and increasing levels of opioid abuse are major drivers, along with the fact that…

Cut 7 (11) “…alone.”

Millennial men were more than twice as like to overdose as millennial women, and more than four times more likely to commit suicide.

Auerbach says the numbers are startling and should prompt authorities to begin investing in programs that will directly target those drivers of death among the youth.

Cut 8 (12) “…decreasing.”

White Millennials were more than twice as likely to die of overdose than other racial groups, and somewhat more likely to commit suicide.

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An NCAA official has told CBS sports the association will soon issue notices of Level One recruiting violations to at least six schools who were mentioned in the FBI’s college basketball corruption probe. Tiger Rag Assistant editor Tyler Nunez says if LSU is one of these schools, coach Will Wade could lose his job

Cut 9 (12) “…him anything”

LSU was one of at least 20 schools mentioned during the course of the FBI investigation. The FBI reportedly has a wiretap conversation between Wade and a convicted middleman, where Wade discusses a strong offer made to a recruit’s family. Nunez says it’s unclear if LSU will receive a notice, but…..

Cut 10 (08) “…just massive”

If LSU receives a notice of violations, new AD Scott Woodward can fire Wade with cause and also receive an automatic two-year contract extension because the NCAA violations occurred before he took over. But Nunez says such a move would draw the ire of LSU fans who want Wade as their basketball coach

Cut 11 (10) “ at him”

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A U-S House Committee has unanimously approved a bipartisan proposal that would extend the National Flood Insurance Program for five years. Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves is encouraged by the prospects of a long-term deal

Cut 12 (09)   “…rates.”

Graves says the bill coming out of the House Financial Services Committee contains increased funding for projects that could minimize flooding in future years

Cut 13 (09) “…lacking” 

Graves says he’s a concern the bill does not address the N-F-I-P’s long-term debt and because of how the legislation is structured, there’s a chance it can raise rates…

Cut 14 (12) “…will be charged.” 

There are about 500-thousand flood insurance policies in Louisiana.

It’s been a quiet governor’s race so far, but a political analyst says expect that to change very shortly…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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

cut 2 (28) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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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.”

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. Pinsonat says this year the candidates don’t have the same vulnerabilities on the personal front so…

Cut 4 (10) “…philosophy”

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

Only one Republican will make it through to a potential November 16^th run-off against the governor. 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.

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Small business optimism is up according to the National Federation of Independent Business.   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.”

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.”

Starns says that with the growth in optimism, comes bigger hiring numbers as well as pay increases for those on the payroll of small businesses.

Cut 8 (10) “…of our state.”

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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, or Alexandria. George says they had success expanding into rural areas once similar legislation passed in other states.

Cut 10 (10) “…button.”

But the service will not be immediately ready in communities that were not already receiving the service. George says there are a few steps left to be completed.

Cut 11 (08) “…the law”
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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.

Cut 13 (08) “…sample was taken.” 

Sandifer says Girior’s death is a reminder to motorists that it is never a good idea to leave the scene of an accident.

Cut 14 (07) “…even more serious.” 

Memory and witness identification experts will now be allowed to testify in criminal trials in Louisiana. Matt Doyle has the story.

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Matt Doyle”

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Legislation headed to Governor’s desk from Lafayette Representative Nancy Landry revises current anti-hazing laws for colleges.  Kevin Barnhart has the story.

cut 2 (31) I’m Kevin Barnhart”  

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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.”

Hill says the cold front will drop high temperatures into the 80s tomorrow and the morning lows through Friday will be cool. He says you’ll feel the difference when you walk outside…

Cut 4 (11) “…north Louisiana”

Hill 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.”

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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”

The law passed the legislature unanimously. The reform specifies that those experts can be called in to potentially speak about the unreliability of eyewitness identification when there is no physical evidence that corroborates an accuser’s account. Hayes pointed out one such situation where a victim’s recollection of a perp’s face might be questionable…

Cut 7 (09) “…face”

Wilbert Jones was in attendance for the bill signing. Mr. Jones was exonerated after serving 46 years in prison on a rape charge stemming from a single eyewitness. At the time the witness told police she wasn’t 100 percent certain about the ID, and Hayes says that kind of info could have changed Jones’ life.

Cut 8 (08) “…first place.”

Hayes says 28 people, that they know of, have been convicted on a case of mistaken identity.

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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.”

When asked if surpluses in the budget should be applied toward education, Reed says stable budgets produce forwarding thinking about education policy.

Cut 10 (12) “…is very important.”

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.”
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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.”

Landry says the changes come so that the organization and law enforcement can conduct their investigations concurrently, but it allows law enforcement to analyze the freshest evidence to determine if the incident is a criminal matter.

Cut 13 (09) “…incident was reported.” 

Landry says with the changes, campus police are allowed to take their hazing investigation beyond the campus.

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