A lawyer for Officer Blane Salamoni is optimistic no state charges will be filed against his client for the shooting death of Alton Sterling. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Baton Rouge Police are gearing up for any potential weekend protests as a result of the feds’ decision in the Alton Sterling Case. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (29) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Senate Transportation Committee approves a bill that requires traffic signs to be posted ahead of speed cameras. The proposal by New Orleans Senator Troy Carter is similar to one that passed last year requiring warning signs for red-light cameras. He says this prevents municipalities from using these cameras as a money grab.

Cut 3 (07) “perfect sense”

The bill was amended to require signs within 500 feet of the camera, but no closer than 250 feet. Carter says this allows for proper signage to discourage the speeder with enough time to slow down safely.

Cut 4  (11) “a problem”

The proposal requires signs to be posted ahead of both moveable and fixed speed enforcement cameras. Another amendment requires that the signs be clearly visible and at the same height of other street signs already in place. Carter says this is another added safety measure of the bill.

Cut 5  (10)  “dangerous situation”

The proposal was approved without objection and now heads to the full Senate.

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More details are coming out about the fatal encounter between Alton Sterling and two Baton Rouge police officers on July 5. Community activist Gary Chambers met with DOJ officials following yesterday’s announcement, and he detailed the meeting to Jim Engster on Talk Louisiana. Chambers says Officer Blane Salamoni’s actions that night are disturbing.

Cut 6 (09) “end of that”

Chambers says that comment speaks to the mindset of Salamoni, while Officer Howie Lake was trying to deescalate the situation. He adds Lake never fired his weapon, though he did use his Taser. He says this means Attorney General Jeff Landry can make a great case for state criminal charges against Salamoni.

Cut 7 (10)  “shoot somebody”

Chamber says he never expected the DOJ to find civil rights violations because the burden of proof is so high for those charges. But he says state violations are much easier to prove. He’s also upset Salamoni is still receiving a paycheck from BRPD while on leave after this incident.

Cut 8 (09) “bad apple”

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John McLindon, the attorney for Blane Salamoni, believes Attorney General Jeff Landry will not seek state charges against his client. Salamoni is one of the officers involved in the fatal police shooting of Alton Sterling and he’s been cleared of any federal civil rights charges. McLindon points to the thorough investigation already conducted by the DOJ on why he thinks Salamoni will not be charged.

Cut 9 (06)  “to prosecute” 

The Sterling family reports Salamoni threatened Alton Sterling’s life before the shooting. But McLindon says there was no criminal conduct in this case.

Cut 10 (06) “the officers”

McLindon expects just like the federal investigation, the state’s probe will take a lengthy amount of time. He says these last 10 months haven’t been easy for anyone.

Cut 11 (10) “Sterling family”

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Baton Rouge Police don’t expect any protests this weekend following the Department of Justice’s decision in the Alton Sterling case, but they’re prepared for anything. Cpl. L’Jean McKneely says they wanted to make sure they weren’t last minute in responding to any potential incidents. So BRPD made some adjustments in their work schedule.

Cut 12 (09) “answering calls”

McKneely says aside from three arrests at a protest outside BRPD headquarters the night the decision was leaked, things have been pretty quiet in the Capitol City. But just in case, Live After 5 in downtown Baton Rouge and a 5K scheduled for this weekend have been cancelled.

Cut 13 (09) “Baton Rouge”

McKneely says there’s a signed agreement between protestors and law enforcement that demonstrators would abide by the law and police would protect their right to protest. He says officers will be on hand to make sure everyone is safe.

Cut 14 (10) “need to be”

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The full House will debate today the proposed budget for next fiscal year that would cut 235 million dollars more than the governor recommended from the department of Health. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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State Police and a prosecutor assigned by the Attorney General’s office will now investigate if the officers involved in the fatal shooting of Alton Sterling face state charges. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The US Justice Department has decided against filing federal charges for the officers involved in Alton Sterling’s death, but Sterling’s family hopes the state comes to a different conclusion. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The full House is expected to debate the budget bill that would cut 235-million dollars more than Governor Edwards wanted from the state Department of Health’s budget. Metairie Representative Cameron Henry says they plan to only use 97-percent of what the Revenue Estimating Conference appropriates for the budget to avoid mid-year cuts.

Cut 4  (09) “of health”

Henry says this will prevent the health department from taking a massive cut in the middle of the year like they’ve done in the past. He says if this strategy was used last year, the state would’ve eliminated all mid-year deficits.

Cut 5  (09)  “year cuts”

Governor John Bel Edwards opposes the proposed cut and is asking lawmakers to reverse them. LDH Secretary Dr. Rebekah Gee says although the department of Health has one of the biggest budgets, that doesn’t mean their money is going to waste.

Cut 6 (09) “this state”

Gee says she wasn’t asked about what the implications of these cuts would have on the department. She says these cuts were just made without talking to experts first.

Cut 7 (08)  “other programs”

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The family of Alton Sterling is grieving all over again, after the Department of Justice announces no federal charges will be filed against the Baton Rouge police officers involved. Sterling’s aunt Sandra Sterling is hopeful the state investigation will bring forth criminal charges against the officers.

Cut 8 (12) “remember his name”

The family says they appreciate the support from demonstrators who are upset over the DOJ’s decision but ask that they remain respectful in memory of Sterling. Kimberly Pierson is the mother of Sterling’s 11-year-old son. She’s devastated and says Sterling didn’t deserve to die the way he did.

Cut 9 (08)  “for him”

Andricka Williams is the mother of three of Sterling’s children. She is disappointed no federal charges were handed down but remains hopeful Landry will get justice for Sterling. She says the determination that federal charges are not warranted is a hard pill to swallow.

Cut 10 (11) “like it was nothing”

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The Louisiana State Police along with a special prosecutor assigned by Attorney General Jeff Landry is now looking to see if Officers Howie Lake and Blane Salamoni violated state laws during the fatal shooting of Alton Sterling. Baton Rouge Attorney Beau Brock says it was a smart move by Landry to have LSP lead this investigation

Cut 11 (07) “of force”

The Sterling family believes there is sufficient evidence for state charges to be handed down against the officers. Brock says new information released by the U.S. Justice department will play a huge factor in the state case.

Cut 12 (10) “they have”

Brock says there is a high burden of conduct when it comes to determining if a person’s civil rights were violated. He says state statutes require only general criminal intent, which is a much lower standard.

Cut 13 (06) “be proved”

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Governor John Bel Edwards and Attorney General Jeff Landry have not seen eye-to-eye on many state issues, but the governor is anticipating Landry’s office will lead a thorough investigation into the fatal police shooting of Alton Sterling.

Cut 14 (11) “is warranted”

New Orleans Senator Karen Peterson says she is looking to the State of Louisiana to pursue the investigation. She calls on the Attorney General Jeff Landry to gather all the facts of the case to ensure that justice is in order.

Cut 15 (07) “this community”

Landry issued a statement saying a thorough investigation could take time, and his office asks for patience from the public. Peterson says not all of the facts of this case have been made public yet, but the facts that have been released are disturbing.

Cut 16 (11) “seem just”

A bill that would allow voters decide if military monuments should be removed, including those from the Civil War era, was approved by a House committee. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The Department of Justice explained in detail why they aren’t filing federal civil rights charges against the cops in the Alton Sterling case. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (35) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Four Confederate monuments in New Orleans are coming down, but the rest of the state’s military monuments would be protected under a bill by Shreveport Representative Thomas Carmody. The measure would prohibit the removal of any military monument from any war, including the Civil War. Carmody says many of his family members fought for this country, and he is proud of their sacrifice.

Cut 3 (10) “of history”

The bill was approved by the House Municipal Committee on a 10 to 8 vote. The proposal was amended to allow for the monuments’ removal if a majority of voters decide to do so. Brenda O’Brock of Shreveport supports the monuments and says students should be paraded to them. She says all veteran lives matter, no matter what war they fought.

Cut 4  (10) “can we?”

The bill would not protect any monuments that are taken down before the proposed law takes effect. Baton Rouge Representative Patricia Smith opposes the measure. She says too many people have not grown up, and many black people still have to endure prejudice.

Cut 5  (09)  “take on us”

Supporters of the measure say removing the monuments would be taking a step backwards because if those who don’t learn from history, will repeat it. But Smith says we’ve already gone backwards in this country.

Cut 6 (08) “ugly names”

The measure now heads to the House floor for more debate.

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A measure that attempts to end pay secrecy in the workplace died in the House Labor Committee on a 9 to 5 vote. The bill sought to allow employees to discuss salary without fear of retaliation from their bosses. Mandeville Representative Reid Falconer voiced his concerns that not every worker feels comfortable sharing their wages. He says this bill could pose problems with employees and employers.

Cut 7 (11)  “everybody else”

But New Orleans Representative Helena Moreno says her measure only gives employees the option to discuss their salaries without fear of retaliation or termination from their employer. She says ending pay secrecy is actually beneficial to businesses.

Cut 8 (11) “productivity boost”

Moreno’s legislation was an attempt to end unequal gender pay practices by businesses. She says a poll found 90% of people surveyed support advancing equal pay policies. 

Cut 9 (11)  “and man”

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Emotions have been flying high surrounding every stance on the Department of Justice’s decision not to federally charge the Baton Rouge Police Officers for shooting Alton Sterling. The news was leaked yesterday by the Washington Post, and Baton Rouge Representative Ted James says it’s a shame the Sterling family had to find out that way…:

Cut 10 (10) “they promised”

James wants people who are upset about this to keep in mind that a lot of things have changed here since the July 2016 shooting..:

Cut 11 (08) “remain peaceful”

(Three females were arrested during a protest in Baton Rouge Tuesday night and are facing some pretty serious charges for allegedly trying to block a major roadway. Those include aggravated obstruction of a highway, resisting an officer, and failure to disperse. One woman was also charged with battery on a police officer for allegedly spitting on a cop.)

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The U.S Department of Justice announces no federal charges against the two Baton Rouge police officers involved in the shooting of Alton Sterling. Acting United States Attorney Corey Amundson says their extensive investigation determined officers Blane Salmoni and Howie Lake acted in accordance with the law when they encountered Sterling on July 5th..

Cut 12 (20) “civil rights laws”

Amundson says they had career prosecutors and agents who looked at the video evidence and witness testimony from the shooting that occurred in front of a convenience store. He says the investigation took so long because they carefully examined the actions of the officers

Cut 13 (18) “under federal law”

Amundson says the entire encounter between Sterling and the two officers lasted 90 seconds. He says they tazed Sterling and the officers also had difficulty trying to control the 37-year-old man after asking if they can see his hands. He says based on the video they can’t determine if the officers acted unreasonably and willfully

Cut 14 (16) “unreasonable”

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry announces State Police along with a special prosecutor will determine if state charges should apply. Chris Stewart, an attorney for Sterling’s family believes it should, because the actions of the police officers that night were outrageous….

Cut 15 (12) “these officers” (2x)

Stewart says everyone has seen the video of Sterling being shot three times, but what we didn’t see was that he was also shot three more times. He adds things got heated between Sterling and Officer Blane Salamoni even before the fatal scuffle.

Cut 16  (08)  “you bitch”

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Legislation designed to end pay secrecy will be heard in the House Labor Committee today. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The Washington Post is reporting the US Department of Justice will not charge the Baton Rouge police officers accused of fatally shooting Alton Sterling last July. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A measure by Representative Paul Hollis that would make it easier to recall elected officials clears a House panel. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A bill to be heard in the House Labor Committee today would protect employees from retaliation for talking about their wages. Vice President of the United Way of Southeast Louisiana Charmaine Caccioppi is an advocate for ending pay secrecy.

Cut 4  (10) “discussing that”

Opposition is expected to come from the Louisiana Association of Business and Industry but Louisiana Progress Action says LABI always testifies the state has a law to prohibit pay discrimination, but this is not true. Caccioppi says she spoke with many low income individuals who say pay secrecy is a real problem in their workplace.

Cut 5  (08)  “termination”

Caccioppi says their support for this measure does not mean they encourage employees in charge of salary information to discuss other’s income. But she says the legislation is the first tool in the tool box to prohibit employers from retaliating against someone who discusses salary.

Cut 6 (07) “right direction”

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Leaders of state agencies are urging lawmakers not to cut their budgets, as the spending plan heading to the House floor is $237 million less than the governor’s budget proposal. The Louisiana Department of Health is facing a $235 million cut. Secretary Rebekah Gee says that means programs like school-based health centers, Zika defenses, and in-patient psychiatric treatment would be eliminated.

Cut 7 (07)  “does not exist”

The Department of Children and Family Services would see a $19 million reduction under the budget proposal. Secretary Marketa Garner Walters says this would strip away 67 child welfare positions. She says it would also impact the budget for repairing the cars that workers use to take foster kids to school and family visits.

Cut 8 (10) “traumatic experience”

The budget plan includes an $11 million cut to the Department of Corrections. Secretary Jimmy LeBlanc says they’re already understaffed. He says in the evenings, they often have one correctional officer for 170 inmates at Angola.

Cut 9 (08)  “medical staff”

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A lawmaker from Covington wants to make it easier for recall petitions to succeed in Louisiana, and his bill to do just that has cleared a House panel. The current rules state districts with more than 1,000 voters have 180 days to sign up a third of registered voters. Norco Representative Gregory Miller says he can see how that’s impossible…:

Cut 10 (10) “particular thing”

Representative Paul Hollis said he brought the measure after failure to remove from office a St. Tammany Parish Coroner who is now in federal prison. Miller says the recall laws are meaningless in voting districts of that size:

Cut 11 (06) “large jurisdiction”

Under the measure headed to the House floor, the signature threshold would be lowered to 25% in districts with 25,000-100,000 registered voters — and jurisdictions larger than that to 20 percent. Hollis said but once a petition is successful, that’s not the end of the line…:

Cut 12 (08) “majority wins”

(An effort to recall Jefferson Parish President Mike Yenni over a sexting scandal was recently halted after organizers realized they wouldn’t get close to the to the requirement.)

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The Washington Post reports the U.S. Department of Justice will not charge the two Baton Rouge Police officers who were involved in the shooting death of Alton Sterling last July. Legal analyst Tim Meche says the D-O-J’s ruling is consistent with the opinion of many lawyers he’s spoken with…

Cut 13 (11) “his pocket”

Sterling was selling C-D’s outside a store last July when two officers went up to him after receiving a report he was threatening someone with a gun. Video shows a scuffle ensues and shots were fired at Sterling over concerns he was reaching for a gun. Meche says the officers had a right to do what they did.

Cut 14 (09) “a weapon”

Louisiana Attorney General Jeff Landry could still investigate to see if criminal state charges apply. But Meche doesn’t think that’s likely.

Cut 15 (08) “it’s over”

A report in the New York Times mentions Democratic New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu as a potential candidate for president in 2020. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 1 (28) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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State leaders at every level seem to have no idea where the Justice Department is with its decision on the Alton Sterling case. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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The number of high school students completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid is the highest in the state’s history. Assistant Superintendent for the Office of Student Opportunity Ken Bradford says students are already at a 51-percent completion rate and the deadline to fill out the form is still two months away.

Cut 3 (12) “completion rate”

The national average for FAFSA completion is 55-percent. Bradford attributes this increase to the forms becoming available in October rather than January. He says if every student filled out a FAFSA form millions of dollars would be available for students to go to college.

Cut 4  (10) “pay back”

Bradford says FAFSA covers the cost of attendance, like books and room and board, unlike TOPS, which is strictly tuition. He also says this financial assistance applies to more than just two and four year colleges.

Cut 5  (09)  “truck driving”

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Speculation said the U.S. Department of Justice would issue its decision in the Alton Sterling case, but there’s nothing yet from DOJ. Federal investigators are determining whether civil rights charges should be brought against the Baton Rouge police officers involved in Sterling’s death. Former US Attorney Don Cazayoux imagines this has been an extensive investigation.

Cut 6 (10) “ballistic evidence”

Cazayoux was a guest on Talk Louisiana with Jim Engster this morning. New Orleans Congressman Cedric Richmond has been pressing the Justice Department for a timeline on a Sterling announcement and had this to say during a twitter town hall…

Cut 7 (11)  “time period”

The community has become restless awaiting the decision from the feds, and rumors a verdict could be coming soon have only added to the unrest. Cazayoux says these cases take a long time, so 10 months is not out of the ordinary. He says some even take years.

Cut 8 (08) “easy decisions”

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A New York Times report names New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu as a potential 2020 presidential contender. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says he hasn’t heard the mayor say anything about a potential White House bid. He believes the article reflects the need for a generational change within the Democratic Party.

Cut 9 (13)  “of his generation”

Dubos says it’s still too early to guess who could be on the ballot in 2020. He says Landrieu is someone who could step up and be influential in the party. But he says the Democratic mayor doesn’t have name recognition outside of the Bayou State.

Cut 10 (11) “long shot”

Landrieu is gaining national attention over the removal of four confederate-era monuments in New Orleans. Dubos says there’s speculation the monument controversy is a political move by the mayor to gain recognition around the country.

Cut 11 (09) “Deep South”

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A portion of Governor John Bel Edwards criminal justice reform package received approval from a Senate Committee today. The bills would shorten sentences for non-violent offenders and strengthen their probation and parole requirements. Edwards’ says changes are needed, because too many people are incarcerated and the state is spending too much money.

Cut 12 (09) “not less”

The governor wanted to overhaul sentencing guidelines for felons, but he says that will be discussed in next year’s legislative session. Edwards says the state needs to invest in programs to reduce recidivism. He says 95-percent of inmates in Louisiana will be released from prison, but many go right back in…

Cut 13 (05) “of prison”

Another measure would address habitual offenders and more legislation could be created to reinvest savings into anti-recidivism courses. Edwards’ says Louisiana is spending too much money keeping too many people in prison for too long.

Cut 14 (09) “a result”

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A 16-year-old driver who wasn’t buckled up has died in a crash after she hit livestock that was standing in the middle of the road near the St. Landry/Evangeline Parish line. State Police Sgt. Jared Sandifer says the female victim is identified as Adrian Johnson of Washington…:

Cut 15 (10) “that crash”

Sandifer says responding troopers reported that Johnson wasn’t wearing a seat belt when she struck the cow and crashed into a culvert. He reminds all drivers that Louisiana law requires everyone in a vehicle to be restrained..:

Cut 16  (08)  “the crash”

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LSU and a news organization have created a website which would let the public give an opinion on how Louisiana’s budget woes could be repaired. Jeff Palermo reports…:

Cut 1 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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A first of its kind study finds childcare issues costs the state over a billion dollars a year in the economy. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser announces an initiative to get Louisianans to vacation right here in the Bayou State. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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LSU and a news organization have created a website which would let the public give an opinion on how Louisiana’s budget woes could be repaired. LSU’s Reilly Center for Media and Public Affairs and The Advocate, together developed “solve-the-budget-dot-org.” LSU Mass Communications Professor Len Apcar says the poll has two sections

Cut 4  (10) “and spending cuts”

Lawmakers are faced with the task of deciding how to deal with a projected $440 million dollar budget deficit. Apcar says poll participants can select “Yes” or “No” to a number of different options related to revenue and spending, with the dollar amounts included for each….:

Cut 5  (10)  “close the gap”

Apcar says the website aims to teach Louisianians about the complexities of the state’s finances, and hopes a number of people respond between now and the end of the session. He also says that once developers look at the results, it could shed some light on what the masses would really like to see happen at the Capitol…:

Cut 6 (10) “we’ll find out”

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Congressman Clay Higgins has sent a letter to Governor John Bel Edwards urging him to take action to keep Louisiana’s confederate monuments in place, after the Liberty Place monument in New Orleans was taken down under the cover of night. Higgins says this is something that has to be done at the state level.

Cut 7 (07)  “there is none”

Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser recently sent a letter to President Trump making the same plea, but Higgins says there’s nothing the feds can do. He says these monuments are a part of Louisiana’s history, and they deserve to be protected.

Cut 8 (12) “that we are”

The New Orleans City Council voted to remove four confederate-era monuments, with statues of Robert E. Lee, P.G.T. Beauregard, and Jefferson Davis still awaiting removal. But Higgins doesn’t think it will stop there. He says the decision to surgically remove this part of our history reflects weakness and fear.

Cut 9 (10)  “be known for”

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A study by the LSU Public Policy Research Lab and the Louisiana Policy Institute for Children finds a lack of quality childcare costs employers and employees over a billion dollars a year. LPIC Executive Director Melanie Bronfin says Louisiana has cut funding to early child care programs 70-percent since 2008.

Cut 10 (09) “their employer”

The report finds one in six workers in Louisiana quit their jobs because of trouble with child care. Dr. Belinda Davis with the Public Policy Research Lab says this results in added costs for employers as the cost of temporary workers and training new employees is expensive. She says this creates large impacts on the state’s economy.

Cut 11 (08) “tax revenue”

Bronfin says a way to solve these problems is to stop cutting money to pay for the Louisiana School Readiness Tax Credits. She says early child care programs are critical to working parents and employers

Cut 12 (09) “childcare”

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Lt. Governor Billy Nungesser unveils a new initiative called Destination Louisiana to encourage Louisianans to vacation in their home state. Nungesser hopes residents will staycation in the Bayou State rather than jumping on a plane. He says there is so much beauty to see right here.

Cut 13 (08) “in Louisiana”

Over the next six months, six different parishes will receive multi-platform coverage from the Louisiana Office of Tourism, starting with Iberia and ending in Sabine. Nungesser says this initiative is an opportunity to showcase all the great reasons to enjoy what Louisiana has to offer.

Cut 14 (11) “Washington Parish”

Nungesser says radio commercials and digital billboards will promote the Louisiana parish of the month. He says for more information on the Destination of the Month, visit Louisiana-travel-dot-com (louisianatravel.com).

Cut 15 (10) “to offer”

A rape victim finally gets justice 30 years later. Halen Doughty has the story…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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TOPS is fully funded under the budget proposal that’s been approved by the House Appropriations Committee. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Two people are dead after a private plane went down in Morehouse Parish. Sheriff Mike Tubbs says his deputies received a call yesterday afternoon in reference to a plane that went down in Collinston near the Morehouse Detention Center.

Cut 3 (07) “we arrived”

Tubbs says the identities of the victims have not been released. He says the National Transportation Safety Board and the Federal Aviation Administration will conduct an investigation into what caused the crash.

Cut 4  (06) “on the scene”

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It’s a sad day in Ouachita Parish, as the community mourns the loss of 26-year-old Sheriff’s Deputy Justin Beard. State Trooper Michael Reichardt says Beard was responding to a burglar alarm early Sunday morning on Highway 34 when he was involved in a crash.

Cut 5  (08)  “this crash”

Reichardt says the roads were wet from rain, and Beard was not wearing his seatbelt. Beard was a deputy at OPSO for over three years and leaves behind a wife and three young children.

Cut 6 (08) “to anybody”

Glenn Springfield with OPSO says it’s been a tough day for everyone at the department.

Cut 7 (10)  “Deputy Beard”

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Rising waters are a concern today in Evangeline Parish, as flooding from that weekend storm system hit  at least two towns hard. Director of the Evangeline Office of Emergency Preparedness, Liz Hill says the city of Mamou sustained extensive damage.

Cut 8 (10) “that were affected”

Hill says the town of Basille on the Acadia Parish line was also affected. She says they’re still waiting on a count, but the flood damage could be as bad or worse as it was in Mamou.

Cut 9 (08)  “right now”

Hill says many residents are just getting power restored in their homes. She says although the water wasn’t as high as it was in the August flood, some people had to be rescued from their flooded homes.

Cut 10 (07) “higher ground”

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An 83-year-old Larose man has been found guilty of sexual battery of a 7-year-old that occurred over 30 years ago. Lafourche Assistant District Attorney Kristine Russell says a victim came forward to report the incidents with Warren Danos that occurred between 1984 and 1986.

Cut 11 (09) “he raped her”

Russell says Danos is set to be sentenced June 20th on a count of sexual battery. He faces a minimum of 25 years behind bars. She says two other victims came forward, but those cases had reached the statute of limitations, because the victims were not raped. She says this is a huge victory for the victim because they didn’t expect a guilty verdict.

Cut 12 (11) “years ago”

Russell says the victim said on the stand that’d she’d been a victim for 30 years, and she wanted her life back. She encourages any victim of sexual assault to come forward and report it to police, no matter how much time has passed.

Cut 13 (08) “have justice now”

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The House Appropriations Committee has voted to fully fund the TOPS scholarship program for the next fiscal year. Baton Rouge Representative Franklin Foil amended the state’s spending plan to take 82-million dollars from the Department of Health’s budget so TOPS students would have their tuition fully paid for.

Cut 14 (11) “percent”

TOPS was only funded at 70 percent under the governor’s budget proposal, leaving lawmakers to find more than $81 million needed to fully fund the program. Foil says he will leave it up to LDH to decide where to allocate those cuts.

Cut 15 (09) “a priority”

The Appropriations committee’s version of the budget funds the Department of Health 235-million dollars below what Governor John Bel Edwards proposed. New Orleans Representative Walt Leger raised concerns in committee about how these cuts would impact LDH. He says the only areas of the health budget that can be cut are optional Medicaid programs, like behavioral health services. He says this cut will greatly impact Louisiana residents.

Cut 16  (12)  “on the streets”

The amendment was approved on a 19-5 vote and the entire budget was approved on a 17-5 vote, along party lines. The full House could take up the spending plan later this week.

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A measure to be heard before the House Ways and Means Committee would place a flat corporate income tax of 2-percent on the profits of businesses. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (26) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Civil rights activists say protests can be expected if the Department of Justice chooses not to file charges against the Baton Rouge police officers who fatally shot Alton Sterling. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Today the budget for next fiscal year is expected to move out of the House Appropriations Committee. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A measure gaining popularity with lawmakers that will be heard in the House Way and Means Committee today would place a flat corporate income tax from 1 to 2 –percent on the profits a business makes. Jackson Representative Kenny Havard says his bill would generate an estimated 200 million dollars in tax revenue.

Cut 4  (07) “for business”

Havard says the bill would eliminate exemptions and the franchise tax. He says this plan is the farthest thing away from Governor John Bel Edwards’ proposed gross receipts tax, which was pulled due to a major lack of support but he has received positive feedback on his measure.

Cut 5  (10)  “fiscal note”

Business groups like LABI are not supportive, because corporate loopholes will be closed. But Havard says companies or businesses will not have to pay this tax, if they don’t  make a profit.

Cut 6 (09) “your profit”

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The Capitol City is anxiously awaiting a decision from the Department of Justice on whether or not civil rights charges will be handed down against the Baton Rouge police officers involved in last summer’s fatal shooting of Alton Sterling. Former Metro Council member John Delgado says he’s heard the DOJ should announce its decision by Tuesday.

Cut 7 (09)  “civil rights violation”

The Mayor’s Office says speculation that a decision could be made this week is just that. After last July’s fatal incident outside a Baton Rouge convenience store, protestors called for justice. A week after the incident, a Missouri man attacked law enforcement officers in Baton Rouge, killing three and wounding three more. Delgado hopes we don’t see that kind of tragedy again.

Cut 8 (10) “that are the problem”

But President of the Baton Rouge Chapter of the NAACP, Mike McClanahan says without justice, there can be no peace. He expects if DOJ does not bring forth charges, there will be protests and rallies around the city.

Cut 9 (07)  “change happen”

McClanahan doesn’t believe relations have improved between law enforcement and the public since the shooting. He says groups are planning to march if the DOJ doesn’t charge the officers responsible for Sterling’s death, and some are calling for an economic boycott.

Cut 10 (09) “their checkbook”

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President Donald Trump has reached 100 days in office, but what does that mean for Louisiana? ULM political science professor Dr. Joshua Stockley says Mr. Trump’s first 100 days in office have been turbulent and unorthodox. He says there’s been very little direct policy change at the federal level under the new administration.

Cut 11 (07) “100 days”

But Mr. Trump has won the support of Louisiana’s congressional delegation, business leaders, and officials from the oil and gas industry. Stockley says the president hasn’t really done anything at this point to help or hurt them one way or the other.

Cut 12 (11) “reason not to”

Stockley says it’s not surprising policy changes have not yet been made because the federal process takes a while.

Cut 13 (10) “to take time”

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The House Appropriations Committee is expected to approve a spending plan for the next fiscal year today. Chairman Cameron Henry of Metairie says they plan to hold back about 2 percent of the revenue forecast by the Revenue Estimating Conference. He says the REC is usually wrong, and withholding this money could prevent midyear cuts.

Cut 14 (09) “have shortfalls”

Under the governor’s proposed budget, TOPS was only funded at 70 percent for the next fiscal year. Henry says it’s his intention to fully fund the taxpayer funded scholarship program.

Cut 15 (11) “the process”

Henry says that means lawmakers will have to find $81 million from somewhere else to fund the program. He says a lot of legislators feel plenty of agencies have funds to spare. He says some agencies, like the Louisiana Department of Health gain money throughout the year.

Cut 16 (09) “billion dollars”

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The Saints selected five players on defense and two offense with their seven picks in the 2017 NFL draft. The franchise believes they found a lock down cornerback for the next decade with their first round pick of Marshon Lattimore of Ohio State. But Coach Sean Payton says Lattimore will have to earn his spot on the field…

Cut 17 (22)  “outside corner”

Despite recently signing Adrian Peterson, the Saints still drafted a running back in the third round, running back Alvin Kamara.  Payton believes Kamara can coexist on a roster featuring Mark Ingram and A-P….

Cut 18 (23)    “those guys” 

The Saints had a big need to draft a pass rusher and they waited until the sixth round to take one, defensive end Al-Quadin Muhammad. The 6-3, 253-pounder had his issues at Miami. He was suspended for a fight during spring practice and later kicked off the team after allegedly receiving improper benefits from a car rental company. Payton says Muhammad has made some mistakes, but he’s been a good teammate…

Cut 19 (13)   “if he fell”

A measure heading to the Senate floor would require higher ed institutions to put together an action plan for preventing unplanned pregnancies. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor Edwards alongside with DHL and Graphic Packaging International announced 274-million dollar folding carton operation and logistic center will be built in Monroe. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Universities would be required to make an action plan to prevent unplanned teen pregnancies, under a proposal approved by the Senate Education Committee. New Orleans Senator Wesley Bishop spent decades working in higher education. He says he’s talked with many young women who dropped out of school for so-called medical reasons.

Cut 3 (09) “happens a lot”

The measure would require all universities, community colleges, and trade schools to have a plan to help students prevent unplanned pregnancies to keep students in school. Bishop says only 40 percent of teen mothers finish high school, and just two percent complete college by age 30.

Cut 4  (09) “is pregnant”

Bishop says that’s because often times the responsibility of raising that child falls on the mother. He says pregnancy prevention is something that should be taught along with time management and study habits. He is confident if young people knew better, they would do better.

Cut 5  (08)  “very difficult”

The proposal now heads to the full Senate.

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The State Fire Marshal’s office is investigating a burning car in DeSoto Parish where the body of a woman was found inside. Fire Marshal Butch Browning says they responded to a call from the Sheriff’s Office at 2 a.m. this morning reporting a vehicle fire on Interstate 49 near Stonewall.

Cut 6 (06) “the road”

Browning says the victim has been identified as Kelly Jo Brunettin of Frierson. He says her vehicle was the only one at the scene and the investigation is ongoing.

Cut 7 (10)  “is involved”

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The Storm Prediction Center is calling for an enhanced risk of severe weather for northwest Louisiana tomorrow. C.S. Ross with the National Weather Service in Shreveport says a cold front will bring the potential for severe weather as early as Saturday afternoon.

Cut 8 (08) “or two”

Forecasters say the severe weather threat will shift to the eastern side of the state after midnight on Saturday. The Mississippi River Delta and southeast Louisiana will be under a slight risk on Sunday. He says heavy rainfall is also possible with this system.

Cut 9 (09)  “four inches”

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Many folks aren’t aware, but Saturday is an election day in Louisiana. Voters in 46 parishes will be deciding on vacancies in the state House, the 3rd Circuit Court of Appeal and the Lake Charles Mayor’s office. Secretary of State Tom Schedler says there is also a big Senate race:

Cut 10 (08) “it touches”

Schedler says there are also many local propositions of tax renewals or new taxes to be decided throughout the state. He says if you aren’t sure if there’s an election in your area Saturday, check out the GeauxVote app…:

Cut 11 (07) “early voting”

Schedler says, unfortunately, he is not expecting a good turnout. He says the early voting turnout was a dismal 14%..:

Cut 12 (11) “17-18%”

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Governor John Bel Edwards along with DHL and Graphic Packaging International broke ground on a 1.27 million-square-foot folding carton plant and logistics center outside of Monroe. The expansion is estimated to be about 274 million dollars.

Cut 13 (10) “logistics center”

The project will create 93 new direct jobs and 74 indirect jobs. Edwards says GPI will continue to employ 800 workers at their mill in West Monore. He says Graphic Packing will move their folding cartons operation from West Monroe to the new facility in Monroe.

Cut 14 (11) “new projects”

The facility will be the size of six Mercedes Benz Superdomes. Edwards says not only will this expansion create more jobs at the logistics center but around north Louisiana.

Cut 15 (10) “be created”

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Webster Parish Sheriff’s deputies have reportedly arrested four individuals after raiding three alleged dog fighting rings. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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The former Destrehan High School teacher accused of having sex with a student still has legal issues as there’s still a civil suit pending against her. Michelle Southern has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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A bill to provide parole eligibility for juveniles convicted of murder has been approved by the state Senate. Baton Rouge Senator Dan Claitor says his proposal would bring Louisiana in line with a 2012 Supreme Court decision that prohibits juvenile offenders from receiving life sentences without parole. The measure would provide parole eligibility after 25 years for juveniles who received life sentences after June 25, 2012.

Cut 3 (10) “gonna get it”

Claitor’s original bill called for parole eligibility after 30 years, but during the debate it was amended down to 25.

Cut 4  (08) “for consideration”

If enacted, the 14 inmates would be immediately eligible for parole consideration after time served. Metairie Senator Danny Martiny says a parole hearing would then determine if that person has at least tried to better themselves or abided by the rules.

Cut 5  (11)  “for parole”

The measure passed on a 22-13 vote and heads to the House.

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Authorities in Webster Parish have raided three alleged dogfighting rings and rescued over 30 dogs. Anna Ware is with an Altanta based group called Norred and Associates and they investigate animal cruelty cases. She says they received a report on their anonymous dogfighting tip line about an operation in North Louisiana so they contacted the Sheriff’s Office to investigate.

Cut 6 (10) “34 dogs”

Deputies originally arrested Randall Tims and Morgan Jones in Dubberly during the first raid, which then led to the arrests of Ketrick Frazier in Minden and Laracco Batton. Ware says the rescued dogs have never seen veterinary care in their lives. She says two animals died due to malnutrition.

Cut 7 (10)  “rabies shots”

Ware says it’s unbelievable that any human could treat an innocent animal like this. She says all of the dogs were living in horrible conditions.

Cut 8 (08) “logging chain”

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The former Destrehan High School teacher who allegedly had sex with a 16-year-old student isn’t out of the woods yet. Shelley Dufrense was found not guilty of carnal knowledge of a juvenile in Jefferson Parish, but the victim’s family has a civil suit pending in St. Charles Parish against the 34-year-old. Legal analyst Tim Meche says Wednesday’s verdict shouldn’t affect the outcome of the civil suit.

Cut 9 (09)  “a deposition”

Dufrense pleaded guilty to an obscenity charge in St. Charles Parish in 2015 and is not required to register as a sex offender. But Meche says that plea deal could hurt her in the civil suit.

Cut 10 (10) “in Jefferson Parish”

Three judges in the 29^th Judicial District in St. Charles Parish have recused themselves from the civil suit because one of them is Dufrense’s father. Meche says the not guilty verdict in Jefferson Parish won’t help Dufrense much in the civil suit.

Cut 11 (08) “that much”

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US Senator Bill Cassidy says President Donald Trump’s tax reform plan will simplify the tax code, create jobs and incentivize investment and growth. Cassidy says he likes that Trump is engaged and following through with his campaign promises.

Cut 12 (09) “American Workers”

Part of the president’s plan would double the exemptions for families and small businesses would receive a tax cut. While there is some concern this tax structure would benefit the wealthy, Cassidy says this incentivizes business owners to put that money back into their company to create better jobs.

Cut 13 (10) “more money”

Cassidy says there hasn’t been a significant tax reform since 1986, with President Ronald Reagan. He says although it took a while to pass, Reagan was thoroughly engaged, just as Trump is.

Cut 14 (08) “he’s engaged”

Cassidy serves as a member of the Senate Finance Committee and will play a role in the passage of any tax reform plan.

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