Attorney General Jeff Landry is tackling the opioid crisis saying he knows why there is a problem in Louisiana. Michelle Southern has that…:

Cut 1 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is urging the community to come forward with any info into the death of a Gonzales man found dead on the street. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office is asking the public to come forward with any information about the death of 44-year-old Brian Tumas who was found dead on the street where he lived. Sheriff Jeff Wiley says Tumas suffered significant trauma, was transported to a local hospital and died about 12 hours later.

Cut 3 (11) “his body”

But Wiley does say they are not ruling out any scenario. He says one theory is he was walking to his car on a foggy morning and was hit by a vehicle but there is some confusion because not much is known about Tumas’ life.

Cut 4  (11) “schedules” 

Wiley says police responded to the scene at around 4:45 am on Friday morning. He says Tumas lived with his parents in the senior citizen area of Pelican Point in Gonzales.

Cut 5  (09)  “about it.”

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State Attorney General Jeff Landry has announced a drug prescription takeback box is now available 24 hours a day at the Baton Rouge Police Department.  In making the announcement, Landry addressed the drug problem taxing the state.  He says statistics show the problem may be related to recent Medicaid expansion, which made Louisiana the 31^st state to do so in 2016…

Cut 6 (10)  “Medicaid expansion.”

He says once Medicaid expansion was approved, it opened the door to allow many more opioids to become available to anyone who wants them…

Cut 7 (09) “for free.”

Landry hopes to be able to expand the prescription drug take back boxes to more places across the state.  They have placed a few others along the northshore of Lake Pontchartrain and the Shreveport area.  He says by teaming up with other law enforcement partners they are looking to take the program statewide …

Cut 8 (09) “the website.”

That website address is end-the-epidemic-l-a-dot-org.  There are currently 41 boxes in 32 parishes.  The Governor’s Communications Director Richard Carbo disagrees with Landry’s findings and says 14,000 people have already taken advantage of substance abuse treatment under Medicaid expansion…

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Louisiana’s Superintendent of Education John White released the annual school performance scores for the 2016-2017 year. White says the scores have remained steady for the third consecutive year. He says Louisiana fourth graders are showing the most improvement in reading and math.

Cut 9 (06)  “progress”

White also adds the percent of students scoring Mastery and above on LEAP English language arts and math tests has increased 13 percent since 2013. He says these are extremely important results that show our improvements as a state.

Cut 10 (09) “ever before”

This is the last year public schools with be graded on the state’s curve transition policy. White says unfortunately, 272 schools statewide received D of F grades for three straight years or saw high school graduation rates less than 67-percent. He says all improvements starts with an awareness of where there have been successes and challenges.

Cut 11 (10) “education”

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The East Baton Rouge Parish Sheriff’s Office says this morning’s deadly shooting in Central was the result of a domestic murder suicide. EBRSO spokeswoman Casey Hicks…:

Cut 12 (06) “on himself”

The victim is identified as 24-year-old Alyssa Kanouse. The ex-boyfriend as 31-year-old Larry Warino Jr of Lafayette. Hicks says Kanouse was found dead inside a silver sedan, and Warino was found dead in a white one..:

Cut 13 (05)  “suicide”

Warino is listed as a legislative aide for Lafayette Representative Stuart Bishop of Lafayette. Hicks says it’s unfortunate to see an increase in domestic incidents like this which result in the loss of life…:

Cut 14 (08)  “report it”

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Reactions are coming in the aftermath of the largest church mass shooting in Texas history this past weekend near San Antonio which killed 26. Seven years ago, former Shreveport area State Representative Henry Burns authored a bill which allows guns in places of worship, with church leadership approval. Burns says the law specifies that all in the congregation are aware if someone is carrying a weapon.
Cut 9 (10) “entire assembly.”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and 10 chefs are in New York City to promote Louisiana cuisine. Nungesser says during the three-day visit to the Big Apple the Louisiana chefs will be able to meet with writers, producers and editors who cover in food and travel.
cut 12 (10) “…their hometown”
The participating chefs are from Monroe, Lake Charles, Baton Rouge, New Orleans and several places in between.

Secretary of State Tom Schedler is afraid of another low turnout for the upcoming November 18 election. Don Molino has more.
Cut 1 (28) “I’m Don Molino.”
A 43-year-old Minden woman is dead after losing control of her truck on Interstate 20 early this morning. State Police say Tammy Lair was not wearing her seat belt when exited the roadway, overturned and was ejected from the vehicle.

There’s been a lot of talk, but how will the GOP tax reform plan affect you?  Kelley Ray sheds some light…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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State Farm is reminding drivers to be extra cautious of deer crossing the road, as it’s getting darker earlier. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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49 aspiring Troopers have reported for the 97th State Police academy cadet class .  Jeff Palermo has more.

Cut 3  (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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So what do CPAs say the GOP tax plan will do for us and our pocketbooks?  Among the changes, the plan eliminates the ability to deduct state income tax, which is between two and six percent in Louisiana.  Brandon Legarde with the Society of Louisiana CPA’s says that one change impacts everyone…

Cut 4  (08) “on that.”

One of the reasons the GOP is happy with tax reform is the change afforded to businesses in trying to urge corporations to come back to the U.S.  Legarde says his office is still trying to determine how all the tax breaks will benefit businesses and if they will be able to get around some of the new laws…

Cut 5  (09)  “the process.”

Legarde says even with the promise of being able to file your taxes on a postcard, the simplicity of the tax code remains to be seen, keeping accountants on their toes…

Cut 6 (04) “us busy.”

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Especially now that it’s getting darker earlier, State Farm wants to remind people to watch out for deer while driving. Louisiana ranks 41^st in the country for the most deer collisions. State Farm Spokesperson Kip Diggs says it’s now mating season deer and they’re on the move. He says dusk to dawn are the highest risk times to see deer out on the roadways.

Cut 7 (09)  “they have”

New data from State Farm finds the odds Louisiana drivers will hit a deer is down at 1 in 332, lower than the national average of 1 in 162. Diggs says if you feel a collision with a deer is inevitable, do not swerve away from the deer. He says vehicles are designed to take an impact like this.

Cut 8 (10) “a ditch”

Diggs says it’s important to drive with your high beams on as frequently as possible because the earlier you see a deer, the more time you have to avoid a crash. He reminds motorists that they also travel in packs.

Cut 9 (11)  “animal”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser and 10 Louisiana chefs are in New York City to prepare the Bayou State’s world-class food and give the Big Apple a taste of what we have to offer. Nungesser says they hope to woo people with our culture and encourage them to take their next vacation to Louisiana.

Cut 10 (08)  “to do”

Chefs like Cory Bahr, Bonnie Breaux and Jay Ducote are joining the lt. governor on this trip. Nungesser says 60 interviews will be conducted with the chefs to talk about all things Louisiana, as they are from every corner of the state.

Cut 11 (09) “around Louisiana.”

This trip is a marketing and communications effort in part of the Louisiana Culinary Campaign. Nungesser hopes to link bloggers and writers with Louisiana chefs to show our unique heritage and food. He says many people with the Office of Tourism are along for the ride.

Cut 12 (10) “their hometown”

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For the first time since 2005, two state police cadet classes will run simultaneously.  Aspiring troopers have reported for the 97^th cadet class with 49 individuals.  The 96th class has entered their 11th week of training.  Sgt. Jared Sandifer says both classes are going through an intense training program…

Cut 13 (08) “those lines.”

Sandifer says people across the state should be happy that many are still willing to join the ranks and help serve them…

Cut 14 (11) “much better.”

Sandifer says even though there will be two different classes, the end result will be the same…

Cut 15 (07) “can be.”

After graduation, troopers will participate in a 10-14 week field training program before beginning their new careers.

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The Saints won their sixth straight on Sunday as they dominated Tampa Bay 30-10. A blocked punt that went for a touchdown in the 1st quarter gave New Orleans a 9-0 lead and they never looked back. Rookie Alvin Kamara has a touchdown rushing and receiving and Ted Ginn Junior caught a 36-yard touchdown pass from Drew Brees. The Saints Q-B says they did a lot of things well…

Cut 16  (20)  “football games.”

A strange play occurred when TommyLee Lewis laid down in the end zone during a kickoff in the hopes the Buccaneers kick-off team would not see him. The play didn’t work at all and New Orleans was forced to start a drive deep in their zone. Payton says they’ll probably not try that again…

Cut 17 (23)  “was a dud”

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LSU ougained Alabama on Saturday night but still lost to the Crimson Tide 24-10 in Tuscaloosa. Tigers Head Coach Ed Orgeron says Alabama’s ability to make the big play was the difference…

Cut 18 (17) “ball in the end zone” 

LSU entered the game as a three touchdown underdog, but lost by two touchdowns. Orgeron says he does not believe in moral victories…

Cut 19 (10)     we’re coming” 

A Mandeville man has been arrested for allegedly holding two teenagers at gunpoint after they toilet papered his house. Emelie Gunn has more…..

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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LSU fans are somewhat torn on how to feel about the game against Alabama on Saturday. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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As we’re turning our clocks back an hour on Sunday for Daylight Saving Time, State Fire Marshal Butch Browning reminds residents now is a good time to check the batteries in your smoke alarm. He says first generation fire alarms need to have the batteries replaced every 12 months, and it also might be time for an upgrade…:

Cut 3 (11) “of security”

Browning says when switching to a smoke alarm with a lithium battery, the battery is already sealed inside and activates when installed on the ceiling.

Cut 4  (09) “protection” 

Browning reminds anyone who cannot afford an alarm that the “Operation Save-A-Life” program will install a smoke detector in your home. He says it’s important to check to make sure your alarms are all working..:

Cut 5  (10)  “smoke alarms”

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A 67-year-old grandmother is dead in Plaquemine after her grandson allegedly shot her by mistake.  Police say 19-year-old Blaise Horton reported he was holding a gun in a house when 67-year-old Kathleen Fulton was killed.  Police Chief Kenny Payne says Horton said he didn’t know there was a single bullet remaining in the chamber…

Cut 6 (10)  “pulled the trigger”

Payne says the bullet grazed the dog and struck Fulton in the back.  He says Horton’s sister was in the home at the time, evidence at the scene matches up with the story Horton and the sister told officers…:

Cut 7 (12) “to the grandmother”

Payne says even though this appears to be accidental, the Iberville Parish D.A. will pursue charges…

Cut 8 (09) “and bonded out”

The dog was treated by a vet and will survive.

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Officers say a three-year-old toddler has died as the result of an alleged accidental shooting in St. Martin Parish.  Police have arrested the uncle 28-year-old Dracolby Numa Journet of Arnaudville.  He has been charged with Illegal Possession of a Stolen Firearm and Obstruction of Justice.  Sheriff’s Office spokeswoman Major Ginny Higgins says cops responded to the call around 7pm Thursday…:

Cut 9 (07)  “gunshot wound”

Higgins says the child was airlifted to a hospital and later died. She says this is a tragic situation, not only for the family, but also for responding deputies…:

Cut 10 (09) “involved”

Journet remains in custody without bond.

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A Mandeville man has been arrested after allegedly blocking off the exit of a subdivision and holding two teens at gunpoint after they toilet papered his house. Police Chief Gerald Sticker says homeowner Craig Scott unjustifiably took matters into his own hands.

Cut 11 (08) “minutes flat”

Scott faces charges of aggravated assault and obstruction of a roadway. Sticker says Scott told the teens they could not leave until they called their parents and during this time one called 911. He says rolling a house with toilet paper can be considered criminal mischief but often times homeowners do not press charges.

Cut 12 (10) “investigate it”

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LSU fans are somewhat torn on how to feel about the game against Alabama on Saturday. On the one hand, the Tigers are huge underdogs headed into Bryant-Denny Stadium, but the matchup between The Bayou Bengals and Crimson Tide has been a wild ride in recent years. These fans bleed purple and gold and would never say LSU can’t beat Alabama…:

Cut 13 (11)  “LSU all the way”

LSU is expected to lose the game by a large margin, being a 21 and a half point underdog. These fans believe that spread is way too big, but The Tigers would have to play perfect to beat Nick Saban’s machine-like team:

Cut 14 (10)  “don’t think they’ll beat Alabama”

Still other fans would like to see a nice effort by the Tigers, but believe this just isn’t the year…:

Cut 15 (11) “that’s all I’m saying”

A Navy veteran has chosen not to accept the Peoples Health Champion Award at the next Saints home game. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Attorney General Jeff Landry is not happy the Edwards administration has filed a lawsuit against drug manufacturers over the opioid crisis and he’s asked a state judge to take over the suit. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A United States Navy veteran has declined to accept the Peoples Health Champion Award during this Sunday’s Saints game in the Superdome. Commander John Wells says he was very honored and excited when he was named a recipient. But he says the anthem protests by NFL players are a slap in the face to veterans.

Cut 3 (08) “for years”

Wells spent 22 years in the Navy and has been an advocate to get better benefits for military veterans. Wells says he understands there is a reason for the protests and there are some problems between police and the public…

Cut 4  (11) “disrespecting it” 

Wells says if there is a conversation to be had, let’s have the conversation…

Cut 5  (05)  “conversation”

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Another legal battle is brewing between Democratic Governor John Bel Edwards and Republican Attorney General Jeff Landry. The A-G filed a motion in court this week to take control of the Edwards administration lawsuit that accuses pharmaceutical companies of worsening the opioid crisis. Landry says it only makes sense for his office to handle this litigation…

Cut 6 (08)  “Attorney General’s office”

The department of health filed its lawsuit on September 27th claiming drug manufacturers intentionally flooded Louisiana with highly addictive and dangerous opioids. Landry says his office was also working on its own lawsuit…

Cut 7 (09) “I’ll say”

The AG won a legal battle this week over the governor’s office on an executive order dealing with discrimination of LGBT state workers. Landry is confident a state judge will rule that his office can supersede the L-D-H opioid lawsuit and he plans to expand it once he takes control…

Cut 8 (08) “particular issue”

Edwards’ executive counsel, Matthew Block, says the governor wants to collaborate on the lawsuit.

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A poll from Morning Consult finds in his second year in office, Governor John Bel Edwards has an approval rating of 53-percent. LSU Political Science Professor Robert Hogan says any time a governor has an approval of over 50-percent that’s good news. He says Edwards has received high marks when it comes to dealing with the high number of natural disasters Louisiana has recently seen.

Cut 9 (09)  “other states” 

Edwards has a 32-percent disapproval rating. But Hogan says that doesn’t mean Edwards is in the clear just yet. He says there are some big things the governor has to confront in the coming months.

Cut 10 (07) “is facing”

Hogan says Edwards is a Democrat in a state dominated by Republicans. He says the governor has been able to stay away from disputes that separate the two parties.

Cut 11 (10) “approval rating”

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GOP leaders on Capitol Hill unveiled today the key details in a new tax plan. The proposal lowers the number of tax brackets from seven to four, and increases the standard deductions. Louisiana Congressman Clay Higgins says this is major reform which is pro citizen and pro economic growth…:

Cut 12 (07) “virtually doubled”

Some democrats have already criticized the plan saying it would only benefit the wealthy, and that the middle class wouldn’t even be getting that big of a break. Higgins says that is wrong…:

Cut 13 (11)  “my pocket”

Higgins says for the first time in a long time the US has seen more than three percent growth in the economy over the past two quarters. He says that’s just with the thought of passing major tax reform, but now Americans have a promise from Congress in their hand…:

Cut 14 (12)  “and not penalized”

Monroe-based CenturyLink’s 24-billion-dollar acquisition of Level 3 Communications has been completed, making it the state’s largest public company.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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Open enrollment for health insurance coverage through the Affordable Care Act begins today and runs until December 15^th. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The 24-billion-dollar acquisition of Level 3 Communications by Monroe based CenturyLink is now complete, expanding the largest public trading company in Louisiana to more than 350 metropolitan areas.   CenturyLink Spokesperson Ann Marie Sartor says the merger allows them to continue leading the telecommunications industry…

Cut 3 (09) “technology solutions.”

Sartor says besides expansion in the U.S., CenturyLink will be able to focus on overseas operations as a result of the merger with the added assets and manpower the former Level 3 Communications is able to provide…

Cut 4  (06) “for us.” 

Sartor says even though they are growing, CenturyLink will still keep their focus on their number one asset, their customers…

Cut 5  (06)  “for communications.”

CenturyLink is committed to Louisiana.  They have a state contract that keeps their headquarters in Monroe through at least 2020.

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Open enrollment for health insurance policies through the Affordable Care Act begins today and runs until December 15^th. Over 122-thousand Louisianans are covered through the online marketplace. State Insurance Commissioner Jim Donelon says most policy holders will see a double digit increase in premiums.

Cut 6 (11)  “last year”

In 2017, 86-percent of Marketplace enrollees in Louisiana received a subsidy. Donelon credits an average 18.5 increase in premiums to the uncertainty surrounding the Affordable Care Act.

Cut 7 (11) “its passage”

In Louisiana, the only insurers offering the Affordable Care Act health plans are Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana and Vantage Health Plan. Donelon offers some tips for those interested in purchasing or renewing their plans.

Cut 8 (11) “expenses”

Visit healthcare.gov to search policies.

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On the day Louisiana is releasing 19-hundred non-violent offenders, a state audit finds the Department of Corrections is not able to track offenders or know their exact release date.  They found 11 percent of offenders were at another facility other than what was reported in their computer system.  Another 19 percent had at least one error in their record.  Auditor Kristen Jacobs says the DOC does not have hard and fast policies which lead to improper reporting by local facilities…

Cut 9 (06)  “next month.” 

In several cases, the audit found that the DOC did not have proper methods in place to calculate correct prisoner release dates.  Jacobs says the DOC tried to plug up the holes in the records system.  They spent 3.6-million-dollars a few years ago on a computer data system that was quickly abandoned…

Cut 10 (07) “and testing.”

The DOC has been notified of their findings and Jacobs says they are willing to work on streamlining very complex procedures…

Cut 11 (12) “very complicated.”

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When it comes to popularity in Congress, both of Louisiana’s US Senators rank right about in the middle, according to a new Morning Consult poll. US Senator John Kennedy is ranked 39th out of 100 Senators, and Senator Bill Cassidy was number 62. ULM Political Science Professor Joshua Stockley says the approval numbers are essentially the same, however..:

Cut 12 (11) “Affordable Care Act”

Cassidy received a 47% approval rating, while Kennedy had 50%. Cassidy is about three years away from re-election, and Stockley feels the Baton Rouge Senator is still more popular than he is unpopular…:

Cut 13 (10)  “Republican state”

Vermont US Senator Bernie Sanders was ranked the most popular in the poll, which Stockley says isn’t surprising given Sanders cult-like following throughout the entire nation. Stockley says he’s also not surprised that Republican Caucus leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky was ranked least popular…:

Cut 14 (10)  “mentions in Tweets”

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The SEC matchup of the year is this Saturday when LSU takes of the Alabama Crimson Tide. Emelie Gunn takes a look at ticket sales on the secondary market…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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19-hundred non-violent offenders will be released starting today as part of approved changes in criminal justice reform.  Kelley Ray has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Kelley Ray”

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A Caldwell Parish teen is in police custody after he allegedly burned down a building that belonged to a historic church in Rayville. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3   (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”  

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The hurricane season ends on November 30, but a named storm has never struck Louisiana in November in 167 years of record keeping.  State Climatologist Barry Keim says the state came close to breaking that streak in 2009 when Tropical Storm Ida churned in the Gulf…

Cut 4  (08) “was spared.”

This hurricane season has not been quiet.  Keim says it ranks high on the list with the second most major hurricanes in a season with one month to go…

Cut 5  (06)  “major hurricanes.”

Louisiana prior to this year was spared hurricane or tropical storm landfalls for four seasons.  Keim says Mother Nature made up for it this year…

Cut 6 (09) “early October.”

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LSU takes on the Alabama Crimson Tide this Saturday at Bryant-Denny Stadium and ticket sales are on fire. Cameron Papp with Stub Hub says ticket prices range from 90 dollars to over 500 dollars for a seat to see the highly anticipated match up. He says this is the highest selling Alabama home game this season so far.

Cut 7 (08)  their calenders”

Papp says traditionally tickets sell for a little more when the game is played in Tiger Stadium but these ticket prices match up to what we saw two years ago at Alabama’s last home game against the Tigers. He says the average ticket price is going for about 300 bucks.

Cut 8 (11) “college football”

Papp says there is still plenty of time left for fans to purchase tickets.

Cut 9 (07)  “game time”

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Over 19-hundred prisoners will be released today as part of the state’s criminal justice reform legislation enacted this year. The Edwards Administration says this will lower the highest incarceration rate in the country and produce better outcomes for non-violent offenders.  Winn Parish Sheriff Cranford Jordan (jer-dun) doesn’t see how releasing inmates will lead to better public safety…

Cut 10 (11)  “job properly.”

Jordan says the system is flawed from the start.  He says Louisiana needs to take a cue from Texas and begin rehabilitation before prisoners are released…

Cut 11 (11) “them out.”

Non-violent offenders will be eligible released after serving 35 percent of their sentence under the new law, but they will be still monitored according to Department of Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc…

Cut 12 (11) “control of.”

It is estimated the reform effort will reduce the state’s prison population by ten percent over ten years.  LeBlanc says many parish jail inmates are released without additional education or skills.  He says this reform will help in that regard as programs will be put into place to help released inmates stay out of jail…

Cut 13 (06) “need attention.”

It is estimated the new program will save the state 262-million-dollars over 10 years, with 70-percent of that money to be reinvested into training and prisoner rehabilitation programs.

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A Caldwell Parish juvenile is in custody after allegedly destroying a building that belonged to St. Paul Baptist church in nearby Richland Parish.  Sheriff Gary Gilley says the suspect also stole an Entergy truck before setting fire to the structure…

Cut 14 (12) “Caldwell Parish.”

Authorities say the suspect also damaged several vehicles at Caldwell Parish High School. Gilley says they are still trying to determine why this teen burned down a building belonging to a church that’s been around for 137 years…

Cut 15 (08) “this happended.”

The fire started around 9:30 AM on Tuesday and Gilley says the suspect was taken into custody early that afternoon. He says witnesses told investigators they saw a young white male at the church in an Entergy truck when the blaze started…

Cut 16  (16)  “this time.”

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After a long layoff, UL Lafayette returns to the football field this Saturday when they visit South Alabama. The Cajuns last played on October 19th, when they were blown out by Arkansas State 47-3. Coach Mark Hudspeth says his players are not dwelling on that lopsided loss…

Cut 17 (23)  “from us”

Also in the Sun Belt this Saturday, ULM hosts Appalachian State. The Mountaineers are 4-0 in league play and Warhawks Coach Matt Viator says they have one of the top defenses in the Sun Belt…

Cut 18 (06) “excited about it” 

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LSU will bring a three-game winning streak into Saturday’s SEC showdown with top ranked Alabama. Crimson Tide Head Coach Nick Saban says the Tigers are the best team they’ve seen this year and their season turned around after losing to Troy…

Cut 19 (20) right now“

Saban says his players need to be ready for a physical game on Saturday…

cut 20 (19)  “understand that” 

The suspect in the high profile Grambling State University double murder has hired a defense team to argue his innocence. Michelle Southern reports:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The police chief in Shreveport is on paid administrative leave after he fired his gun at an armed robbery suspect. Emelie Gunn has the story…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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A woman was arrested after allegedly using pepper spray one several people inside a Chuck E Cheeses restaurant in Metarie.  Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office spokesman Lt. Jason Rivarde says they were called to the scene and arrested Katarian Marshall of New Orleans after an apparent argument…

Cut 3 (07) “the woman.”

Rivarde says Marshall hit children and adults with the pepper spray.  Five adults and two children were treated at the scene…

Cut 4  (06) “by paramedics.” 

Marshall is charged with disturbing the peace by fighting.  She was released on a 250-dollar bond.

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Baton Rouge Police are investigating a crash off Airline Highway, which left two people dead including a toddler. Sgt. Don Coppola says witnesses told detectives they saw the driver of a 2009 Mustang driving erratically and crossing over the median multiple times before hitting an 18-wheeler head on.

Cut 5  (11)  “his injuries”

A 19-year-old male was a passenger in the vehicle and was transported to the hospital with moderate injuries. Coppola says the driver was identified as 23-year-old Wallacea Swazer of Baton Rouge and two year-old Carter Northern.

Cut 6 (06)  “the crash”

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The Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office says two men, one of them armed with a handgun, stopped a school bus because they felt the bus driver was speeding. Lt. Col. Ward Webb says the bus was traveling down the road with students on board yesterday afternoon when 58-year-old Clifton Hamby and 60-year-old Kerry LaSaicherre(Les-sha-share) refused to let the driver pass.

Cut 7 (10) “with speeding”

Webb says after producing a copy of the ordnance, an altercation apparently ensued and the bus driver drove away and called police. He says it’s always the best to call police if faced with a similar matter.

Cut 8 (11) “the peace”

Webb says one of the men was opening carrying a handgun on his waist when the incident occurred.

Cut 9 (10)     “is legal” 

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The suspect in the high profile Grambling State University double murder has hired a defense team to argue his innocence. Attorneys Ronald Haley and Dedrick (Deed-Rick) Moore would not reveal 19-year-old Jaylin Wayne’s side of the story, but said the focus should switch to the environment at Grambling. Moore says there is a culture of gun violence on campus:

Cut 10 (08) “continue to take place”

Cops had said the incident in which Earl Andrews, another GSU student, and Monquiarious Caldwell were killed, was the result of a personal fued and isolated. Haley says there was yet another shooting on campus just this past weekend, and they feel more light should be shed on a bigger problem at Grambling. He says school officials aren’t saying everything…:

Cut 11 (11) “3.6 GPA”

Wayne was arrested on first-degree murder charges. GSU President Rick Gallot said it became clear early on that this was not some random act of violence…:

Cut 12 (07) “who knew one another”

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State Police is reminding those out of the street for trick or treating or attending Halloween parties that this holiday is more dangerous for drunk driving than New Years. Trooper Melissa Matey says last New Year’s Eve there was 7 deaths in Louisiana and five were alcohol related.

Cut 13 (09)  “to alcohol”

The U.S. Department of Transportation says deaths from impaired driving make up half the all traffic fatalities between 2011 and 2015 on Halloween. Matey encourages people to make smart decisions before heading out to parties tonight.

Cut 14 (10)   to drink”

A report from the Centers for Disease Control finds children are four times more likely to be hit by a vehicle on Halloween than any other night of the year. Matey also adds it’s illegal for sex offenders to participate in any Halloween events where children may be present. She says L-S-P will be out in full force tonight.

Cut 15 (09) “the wheel”

Governor John Bel Edwards is in Puerto Rico to help with Hurricane Maria recovery efforts. Don Molino has more.

Cut 1 (26) “I’m Don Molino”

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New Orleans Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson is doing “very well” after being hospitalized overnight. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is in Puerto Rico today along with leaders of the Louisiana National Guard and the Governor’s Office of Homeland Security and Emergency Preparedness to observe and give support to the island nation as it recovers from Hurricane Maria.  The governor’s spokesperson Shauna Sanford says Louisiana understands the immense recovery effort Puerto Rico is undergoing…

Cut 3 (10) “leading in.”

Shortly after the storm, Louisiana launched a donation drive for Puerto Rico and Sanford says the state has sent approximately 100 pallets worth of essential items from diapers to non-perishable formula to help in the recovery efforts…

Cut 4  (09) “those goods.” 

Sanford says the governor is wanting to provide insight for Puerto Rico’s leaders to help make their recovery quick and efficient…

Cut 5  (09)  “recovery effort.”

The governor will return to Louisiana Tuesday.

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Two out of state residents were killed in an overnight crash involving four 18-wheelers on Interstate 10 in West Baton Rouge Parish. State Police Trooper Bryan Lee says there was congestion on I-10 Eastbound between Gross Tete and the Lobdell exit from a previous wreck, when an 18-wheeler didn’t notice other vehicles had slowed down

Cut 6 (09)  “their injuries”

The wreck led to the closure of I-10 Eastbound near the Mississippi River Bridge. Lee says the pile-up could have been avoided if the now deceased driver saw that traffic was coming to a stop…

Cut 7 (06) “of them”

Lee says the fatal wreck occurred at two o’clock this morning. He says the traffic was heavy at that time, because a car went off the road…

Cut 8 (07) “caused congestion”

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An investigative audit accuses three former cashiers at Grambling State University improperly added over 164-thousand-dollars to G-Flex accounts that were used by 35 students and two of the former cashiers. State Auditor, Roger Harris says the Louisiana Legislative Auditor’s office was notified by the school in February once they discovered a problem…

Cut 9 (10)     “of money” 

Such a use of public money for personal benefit may violate both state and federal laws. The G-Flex accounts can be used to buy text books, meals and snacks.  Harris says even though the money has been paid back through Grambling’s general fund, the school wants to recover those funds…

Cut 10 (10) “wrong doing.”

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Former LSU star Alex Bregman is receiving a lot of praise for his base hit to score the winning run in a crazy 13-12 win for the Astros over the Los Angeles Dodgers in Game 5 of the World series. During the game, Houston trailed by four runs and then three runs, but kept battling back. Bregman on his team’s fight…

Cut 11 (10) “champions” 

Houston can win its first World Series in franchise history tomorrow night in L-A. Bregman has delivered several big hits and has made some terrific plays in the field during the postseason. His manager, A-J Hinch, is not surprised the 23-year-old is coming up big…

Cut 12 (11) “biggest moments”

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The big game of the year has arrived,  as 19th ranked LSU visits top ranked Alabama this Saturday. The Bayou Bengals are looking for their first win over the Crimson Tide since 2011, but Bama is a three touchdown favorite. LSU Coach Ed Orgeron spoke today about the key to beating the defending SEC champs…

Cut 13 (08)  “very tough”

Alabama got after LSU Quarterback Danny Etling last season. He was sacked five times and threw for just 92 yards. Etling was also intercepted once. Orgeron on what he wants to see from his senior signal caller…

Cut 14 (10)   protect him”

Orgeron says this game will come down to whoever executes the best….

Cut 15 (11) “game goes”

State Fire Marshal Butch Browning reminds the public to watch out for potential fire hazards while dressing up and decorating for Halloween. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Hundreds of non-violent inmates at parish jails are set to be released later this week as part of the state’s criminal justice reform effort. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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There is a new material being developed in Louisiana that can keep homes drier when flooded.

Cut 3   (31) “I’m Kelley Ray”  

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Halloween is a time for celebration, but State Fire Marshal Butch Browning reminds the public some costumes and decorations are highly flammable. Browning says costumes should have a fire retardant coating, so they don’t easily burn. He also says nearly half of all home fires during Halloween are a result of decorations too close to a heat source.

Cut 4  (11) “your home “

According to the U.S. Fire Administration, there are over 10-thousand fires in American each year in the days leading up to and following Halloween. Browning says when cooking outside, make sure to keep grills and fire pits away from the home and wooden decks.

Cut 5  (08)  “messages”

Browning says fire around Halloween results in about 25 deaths and 125 injuries. He says jack-o-lanterns, paper spiders and dried cornstalks are very common decorations but are highly flammable.

Cut 6 (10) “be controlled”

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Changes have been made to Mega Millions. It will result in larger multi-state jackpot prizes, but the price of a ticket has increased from one to two dollars. Louisiana Lottery Spokesperson Kimberly Chopin says the higher ticket price will mean the starting jackpot starts at 40 million, instead of 15 million dollars.  Chopin says the odds of winning of the jackpot will increase, but other enhancements to the game will lead to more winners for the smaller prizes.

Cut 7 (05)  “more millionaires”

Chopin says they anticipate the average jackpot to be 371-million dollars…

Cut 8 (11) “jackpots”

Chopin says the first drawing for the revised Mega Millions game is tomorrow night. She says they know larger jackpots will lead to more players for Mega Millions.

Cut 9 (07)  “similar”

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Prison reform measures go into effect Wednesday when some 14-hundred non-violent offenders will be released as a result of changes to the state’s sentencing laws.  It’s an effort led by Governor John Bel Edwards to lower the state’s incarceration rate which is considered the highest in the world.  State Corrections Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc says most of these prisoners set free this week were nearing their release…

Cut 10 (07)  “get out.”

Caddo Parrish Sheriff Steve Prator was critical of the reform effort.  Prator said he learned of one man that was arrested 52 times under 34 different names would be released this week.  LeBlanc says Prator was using bad information and the sheriff has realized his error…

Cut 11 (07) “justice reform.”

Lowering the incarceration rate is estimated to save the state 262-million-dollars over ten years, most of the savings will go towards rehabilitation programs…

Cut 12 (06) “these guys.”

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Whether we like it or not, flooding is a disaster that happens in Louisiana.   An LSU AgCenter building science instructor has found an effective way to repair flooded homes at a quicker pace.  Bill Robinson calls it wet-proofing by using glass faced drywall.  He says it’s easy to dry out these walls if they get damaged…

Cut 13 (10) “it’s done.”

There are some downsides.  The first question that comes up is the cost.  There is about a 25 percent increase in construction costs, but Robinson says the long term benefits are worth it…

Cut 14 (07) “me later.”

The paperless drywall is being used as an experiment at Louisiana House on LSU’s campus and is also being installed in the Lower Ninth Ward in New Orleans 12 years after Hurricane Katrina.  He says he is finding those homeowners are willing to upgrade to his method once they see the benefits…

Cut 15 (11) “do it.”

Robinson has posted some of his instructional videos on You Tube and hopes to further his findings by meeting with West Monroe officials this week.

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The Saints are on a five game winning streak after beating the Chicago Bears 20-12. New Orleans did a lot of things well, the defense gave up just one touchdown, quarterback Drew Brees threw for 299 yards, Will Lutz kicked two field goals and running back Mark Ingram and Alvin Kamara each had rushing touchdowns. But Ingram also fumbled twice in the 4th quarter, which almost led to a come from behind win for the Bears…

Cut 16  (19)  “my coaches”

Brees it’s encouraging the Saints are winning football games, even though they have yet to play their best football…

Cut 17 (11)  “come together”

The Saints are now 5-2 and host 2-5 Tampa Bay this Sunday. New Orleans is in first place in the NFC South a half-a-game ahead of Carolina. Brees says they have to keep their foot on the gas, because they have lofty goals to accomplish this season…

Cut 18 (22) “on that ” 

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Louisiana Tech snapped a two-game losing streak by beating Rice 42-28. The game was tied at 28 late in the fourth quarter, but the Bulldogs mounted a 11-play, 75-yard drive that ended with a two-yard touchdown run by Boston Scott. Bulldogs Coach Skip Holtz…

Cut 19 (11) finished the game“

Quarterback J’Mar Smith bounced back from a bad performance in a loss to Southern Miss. Smith threw for 237 yards and a touchdown and also big-time nine-yard run on the game winning drive. Holtz on the play of signal caller…

cut 20 (23)  “successful quarterback”