A federal law suit has been filed over seven Louisiana abortion laws enacted this year. Emelie Gunn has more on the case…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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 Governor Edwards announces Louisiana Economic Development will take a deep look into the state’s film tax incentive program. Jeff Palermo has more…

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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Louisiana has received a 60-million dollar grant that officials say will help alleviate traffic congestion in Lafayette and Baton Rouge. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Abortion providers in Louisiana have filed suit over seven abortion laws enacted this year. The Center for Reproductive Rights brought forward the federal suit to keep the rules from taking effect on August 1. But Deanna Wallace with Louisiana Right to Life says these laws are needed, because abortion doctors refuse to consider common sense protections for the safety of women.

cut 4  (08)  “in Louisiana”

 The lawsuit seeks to get a judge to determine the state’s new 72 hour waiting period for a woman to get an abortion is illegal and they are also challenging the ban of the so-called dismemberment abortion, which is commonly used in the second trimester. But Wallace says these laws are common sense regulations…

Cut 5  (05)  “barbaric procedures”

 But Janet Crepps, Senior Counselor at the Center for Reproductive Rights, says these laws deny women their right to access abortion in Louisiana. She says the laws passed that prohibit medication abortion and increase the waiting time to 72 hours are extremely burdensome.

Cut 6 (10) “whatsoever”

Crepps believes the Supreme Court’s ruling last week to block a Texas law that requires abortion doctors to have admitting privileges at hospitals will help their case…

CUT 7 (07)  “accountability”

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Just in time for summer vacations, drivers are seeing prices go down at the pump. AAA spokesperson Mike Right says we could see gas prices below $2 a gallon before the end of the summer.

Cut 8  (12)  “a gallon”

Gas prices have been falling for the past few weeks, and Right says that’s unusual during the summer months. He says this time last year, the statewide average was $2.55 a gallon, and today the average is $2.08.

Cut 9 (03)  “long time”

Right says the decline is due to lower crude oil prices and an abundant supply with not enough demand. He says although we’re seeing demand go up in the US, that doesn’t seem to be the case in other countries.

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Governor John Bel Edwards announces the state’s Economic Development department will take a comprehensive look at the Louisiana’s film tax incentive program. With reports that movie industry jobs are fleeing to other states, LED Secretary Don Pierson says it’s time to see how they can help Hollywood South…

Cut 10 (09) “our state”

Changes were made to the state’s film tax incentive program in 2015. Legislators agreed to put a cap on the credits redeemed, as a way to cut down on costs to the state. Pierson admits there has been some uncertainty in the industry and that’s something they want to address.

cut 11 (09) “this market”

Pierson says they’ll make recommendations on how to reform the program and legislators will get a chance to vote on them next year. He says they want to find a happy medium between keeping the industry going and ensuring the credits don’t become too expensive for the state.

cut 12 (07) “the industry”

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Louisiana is set to receive 60-million dollars in federal grants that will benefit significant road projects in the state. The grant will be used to improve and expand I-10 between Lafayette and the Atchafalaya Basin Bridge. And Baton Rouge Congressman Garret Graves says this federal money will allow the state to use dollars to address the bottleneck on I-10 east as you come over the Mississippi River Bridge from West Baton Rouge parish.

Cut 13 (10)  “Interstate 110”

Graves says the work on Interstate 110 should begin by 2017 to fix the only part of the country where the interstate goes down to one lane. The grant comes as a result of the federal FASTLANE Program, and Graves helped bring that money to Louisiana. Department of Transportation Secretary Shawn Wilson says this grant will allow the state to prepare for other important transportation projects.

cut 14 (10)  “as we speak”

Wilson says also in the planning stage is the I-20 to 220 interchange into Barksdale Air Force Base in Shreveport. The secretary says this federal money will help the state pay for roadway projects that have been ignored for years.

Cut 15 (08) “excited about that”

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LSU student-athletes, coaches, and support staff will undergo sexual harassment sensitivity training and awareness classes. Deputy Athletic Director Eddie Nunez says they are increasing their efforts on this topic after troubling reports of sexual assaults involving athletes at other schools.

Cut 16  (06)  “have been” 

Only two other schools conduct this kind of training, according to LSU President F. King Alexander. Nunez says their classes will be very broad and address everything from human relations risks to prevention of harassment and abuse.

Cut 17 (10)  “do arise”

Nunez says everyone in the athletic department will attend these classes throughout the year. He says the initial training for the Tigers’ 400 athletes and 250 employees will be led by former Big 12 commissioner Dan Beebe’s firm. He says they hope to do this every year and continue to reinforce it.

Cut 18 (10) “end of the year”

Gunshots rang out in a Shreveport neighborhood on Independence Day, killing one man and leaving another in the hospital with injuries. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

================

A Gonzales man is behind bars today after cops say he allegedly shot his ex girlfriend in the face on the side of the interstate. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (28)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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One man is dead and another is in the hospital following a shooting in Shreveport on Independence Day. Cpl. Marcus Hines says 33-year-old Antonio Collins and 32-year-old Exzavious Thomas were next door neighbors who got into a dispute over fireworks that turned violent.

CUT 3 (11)  “gunshot wounds”

Hines says Collins suffered a fatal shot to the chest, and Thomas was also injured but is expected to recover. Hines says the two neighbors were arguing over shooting fireworks.

CUT 4 (12)  “both men”

Hines says Thomas has only been charged with a single count of convicted felon in possession of a firearm, after interviews with witnesses indicate the shooting may have been self-defense.

CUT 5 (08)  “wounding Collins”

===============================================

A man is dead after an officer involved shooting early this morning outside of a convenience store in Baton Rouge. Cpl. L’ Jean McKneely says officers responded to an anonymous tip that someone had a gun in the area and it needed to be checked out by authorities. He says that’s when a scuffle occurred and 37-year-old Alton Sterling was shot and killed by an officer.

CUT 6 (08) “witnesses”

Sterling was pronounced dead and McKneely says only one officer fired his weapon. He says they’ll learn more about the shooting after reviewing video tape from body cameras, in car cameras and surveillance video from the convenience store.

CUT 7 (07) “it all”

The convenience store clerk told a Baton Rouge TV station he saw Sterling carrying a gun but did not have it out at the time of the shooting. McKneely says one officer is on administrative leave and the investigation is ongoing.

CUT 8 (05) “officers there”

==================================================

State Police is increasing its efforts to enforce the “Move Over” law, in light of several officers who have been hit while on the side of the road. State Police Sgt. Jared Sandifer says the law applies to all emergency vehicles, including police, firefighters, EMS, and tow trucks. He says people need to watch out for these vehicles when they are on the side of the road.

CUT 9 (10) “their speed”

In the past week, officers in both Sterlington and St. John the Baptist Parish have been hit by vehicles while on the side of the road, and one of the Sterlington officers was killed. Sandifer says if you cannot get over the other lane, it’s important to at least slow down. He says you can not only get a ticket for not moving over, but you can seriously hurt or kill someone.

cut 10 (05)  “emergency vehicles”

According to the “Move Over America” campaign, over 70% of Americans have not heard of “move over” laws. Sandifer says it’s about safety for these people and also just treating others as you would want to be treated.

Cut 11 (11) “they can”

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Hundreds of Louisiana workers will be out of work as a result of GE Oil and Gas in Pineville closing its doors. Pineville Mayor Clarence Fields says the company is closing its Pineville facility to move its operation to their other location in Jacksonville, Florida. He says he is disappointed to see this company move to another state.

cut 12 (10) “different here”

The plant closing will result in 269 of the company’s 289 employees encountering permanent layoffs. Fields says they have known this was coming since December and they are looking into repurposing the GE plant.

Cut 13 (08)  “that facility”

Fields says the city will do as much as possible to help the employees who are laid off. He says they have also been trying to prepare for the impact this will have on the economy in central Louisiana.

cut 14 (08)  “immediate impact”

Blue Sky Innovations in Lafayette has announced they will lay off all hourly employees by the end of the month and all salaried positions by the end of the year. The company has already issued a notice ending an existing contract and resulting in 55 layoffs.

===================================================

A Gonzales man is behind bars today after the Ascension Parish Sheriff’s Office says he allegedly shot his ex girlfriend in the face while she was trying to get away from him in her vehicle. Chief Deputy Bobby Webre says 26-year-old Jarvis McNair followed the victim at a high rate of speed before stopping in Sorrento…:

cut 15 (08) “at the hospital”

Webre says the victim, 36-year-old Shondrica Dejoie, died from a gunshot wound to the mouth. He says McNair is facing several charges…:

cut 16 (08) “jail now”

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Governor John Bel Edwards approved legislation that would front load the TOPS program in the new budget. Halen Doughty has more on how students feel about this change…

CUT 1 (25) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Colorado State University forecast team has upped the number of anticipated named storms in 2016 by one. Don Molino reports…:

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Don Molino”

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The pharmaceutical company, Sanofi, agrees to develop cancer immunotherapy drugs that were discovered by an LSU Health Shreveport professor and scientists at a university in Poland. Jeff Palermo has the story…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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The budget for this fiscal year front-loads state spending on the TOPS scholarship program. This means students on TOPS will have their tuition funded for the fall semester but only have 42-percent covered in the spring. LSU student Ally Balthazar has been on the scholarship program for the last three years and her parents pay out of pocket for the expenses left over

cut 4  (09)  “I graduate”

LSU President F. King Alexander doesn’t support the front-loading of the program, because he believes it will be difficult for students to get financial aid for the spring semester. Balthazar says she still plans on applying for federal student aid for the spring semester…

Cut 5  (10)  “I graduate”

Balthazar says the TOPS program not being fully funded puts a financial struggle on her family and there’s also extra pressure to do better in school…

Cut 6 (09) “TOPS anymore”

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The Colorado State University forecast team has upped the number of anticipated named storms in 2016 by one. In June they called for 14 named storms, now they predict 15. State Climatologist Barry Keim says the change is due to the fact that there are already 4 named storms on the books this year. He says that’s the most ever for this early in the season…:

CUT 7 (11)  “telling us somethin”

The Atlantic Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November. The updated forecast calls for 6 storms to become hurricanes, and two of those major systems with winds of 111 per hour or more. Keim says the forecast for the season is still made up of counter-balancing forces, as a La Nina is expected to take effect at the heart of the hurricane season…:

Cut 8  (09)  “fewer storms”

Historically, the most active part of the hurricane season is August and September. Keim says the peak is around September 10th…:

Cut 9 (12)  “considerably”

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The town of Welsh, located in in Jefferson Davis Parish, is now the official The Home of the Cajun Dictionary.” Mayor Carolyn Louviere says the town’s long time former late pastor, Father Jules Daigle, wasn’t pleased with the way Cajun French was spoken and wrote two books on the language. She credits Welsh’s city council for taking steps to get this official designation…

Cut 10 (07) “was passed”

Louviere says copies of “A Dictionary of Cajun Language” and “Cajun Self Taught” by Father Daigle can be purchased in Welsh and on Amazon. She says the town will hold a special celebration on their new designation…

cut 11 (10) “Daigle’s work”

Louviere says everyone in the town is proud to call Welsh “The Home of the Cajun Dictionary.” She says Father Daigle would be happy with the accomplishment.

cut 12 (08) “honor him”

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A deal has been struck to develop cancer immunotherapy drugs first discovered by LSU Health Shreveport professor Doctor Robert Rhoads and scientists at the University of Warsaw in Poland. Immunotherapy is already used in treatment of melanoma and prostate cancer. Rhoads says pharmaceutical company Sanofi has paid a licensing fee to see if immunotherapy could work with other types of cancer

Cut 13 (06)  “own cancer”

Rhoads says immunotherapy would not have the toxic side effects of current chemotherapy drugs and it would direct a person’s immune system to attack cancer cells until the last one is gone.

cut 14 (06)  “traditional method”

Rhoads, who lost both of his parents to cancer, is excited Sanofi will seek to develop this treatment to other cancers. He says it takes hundreds of millions of dollars for biotechnology companies to bring a new drug to the market and hopefully Sanofi will have success

Cut 15 (11) “make it”

#####Stations, we’ve replaced some news stories on our original newscall. So use this one instead. Only one newscall on Monday, unless something major breaks. Happy 4th of July.####

It’s Independence Day and many people will be shooting off fireworks. Emelie Gunn has some safety tips to take into mind while enjoying the holiday.

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Two Louisiana police officers have died while on duty during this holiday weekend. Jeff Palermo has the story….

Cut 2 (30) “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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It’s Independence Day and the State Fire Marshal urges caution when using fireworks. Butch Browning says  if you’re buying fireworks make sure you use them in legal areas. He reminds consumers to follow the manufacturer’s instructions when lighting fireworks and always have a bucket of water nearby.

Cut 3 (10) “devices”

Browning says children or those under the influence of alcohol should never be allowed to use fireworks. He say the most common injuries associated with pyrotechnical devices is on the hands and then the eyes.

cut 4  (07)  “something occurs”

Laura Adams with InsuranceQuotes says if you’re shooting off fireworks in an area that is illegal and you damage your home or vehicle, you are not covered by insurance. She says it’s a smart idea to call your insurance agent if someone is hurt as a result of fireworks.

Cut 5  (09)  “medical damages”

Adams says homeowners insurance doesn’t always cover homes with pools. She says some insurance agencies require pools to have gates and other potentially dangerous items may not be covered.

Cut 6 (11) “or trampoline”

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Tons of events are taking place around the state today in honor of the 240^th anniversary of America’s independence. New Orleans’ 26^th annual ‘Go 4^th on the River’ event is ranked the third best Fourth of July celebration in the US, with a red, white and blue water show and a fireworks show to follow on the river. Angie Manning with the Southwest Louisiana Convention and Visitors Bureau says there are a lot of events going on tonight in Lake Charles as well.

CUT 7 (12)  “to behold”

Manning says Crying Eagle Brewing Company will have a VIP soft opening today between 2pm and 6pm. She says this is a local brewery that’s opening its doors for the first time today.

Cut 8  (09)  “weekend”

Manning says people can get more information about the events at VisitLakeCharles.org. In north Louisiana, Chris Jay with the Shreveport-Bossier Convention and Tourist Bureau says there will be an enormous Independence Day festival in Festival Plaza.

Cut 9 (12)  “9:20 pm”

Jay says there are over a dozen events listed at Shreveport-dash-Bossier-dot-com.

Cut 10 (09) “SciPort”

The USS KIDD’s Freedom Festival will take place today in downtown Baton Rouge from 11am to 4pm. This event is free and open to the public and honors men and women in the Armed Forces, with fireworks to follow tonight on the river.

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It’s been a difficult holiday weekend for law enforcement as two Louisiana police officers died while on duty in separate incidents. New Orleans Police Superintendent Michael Harrison says 43-year-old officer Bryan Bordes was working on Bourbon Street when he became ill early Sunday morning…

cut 11 (10) “to the hospital”

The Orleans Parish coroner will conduct an autopsy, though it appears the officer’s death was of natural causes. Bordes was an officer with the NOPD for 18 years and his wife lives in Church Point. Harrison says Bordes loved his job and was a great guy…

cut 12 (08) “the other officers”

State Police say an impaired driver struck and killed a police officer and injured two others in Ouachita Parish. Trooper Michael Reichardt says Sterlington police officer David Elahi was conducting a traffic  stop on the shoulder of US Highway 165 early Sunday morning, when a pickup truck driven by 44-year-old Tracy Govan of Monroe plowed into Elahi. Reichardt says Govan faces multiple charges

Cut 13 (09)  “emergency vehicles”

Officer Elahi was pronounced dead at the scene. The other two officers involved were taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Reichardt says this tragedy is a reminder that motorists need to obey the “Move Over” law…

cut 14 (09)  “reasonable speed”

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It will be hot as a firecracker on this Fourth of July. Much of north Louisiana is under a heat advisory until seven o’ clock tonight. Michael Berry is with the National Weather Service in Shreveport….

Cut 15 (09) “heat advisory”

Berry says if you have outdoor activities today, make sure you take some breaks from that hot sun…

Cut 16  (12)  “as well” 

Berry says there is the chance for a cooling thunderstorm…

Cut 17 (07)  “5-7 days”

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Many Americans will be on the road for the 4^th of July holiday but that also means thieves will be on the prowl. Emelie Gunn has more on how to protect your home over the long weekend…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Governor John Bel Edwards is not going to veto the TOPS legislation that nearly funds all fall tuition, but cuts more than half for spring. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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As many Americans are traveling over the holiday weekend, thieves are on the lookout for those leaving their homes. State Farm saw 1,420 theft claims in Louisiana in 2015. State Farm spokesperson Roszell Gadson says July is the third highest month for home theft claims. He says it’s very important that your home is prepared during the 4^th of July weekend if you’re going to be hitting the road.

CUT 3 (08)  “your property”

Gadson says wait until you’ve returned home from vacation to post pictures or chat about your trip on social media because you never know who is watching your posts. He says another way to be proactive is to ask your neighbor for a helping hand…

CUT 4 (10)  “in town”

Gadson says installing an alarm system is always a good idea no matter what time of year. He says it’s smart to install timers for when you’re away on vacation.

CUT 5 (08)  “you’re away”

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People and pets will be spending a lot of time outside this hot Fourth of July weekend, and the LSU Veterinary School advises people to protect their fur babies from heat exhaustion and heat stroke, which can be fatal. Associate professor and veterinarian Dr. Kirk Ryan says the number one danger is leaving pets in a hot car, but he says they can also get overheated when exercising outside.

CUT 6 (10) “like us”

Leaving an animal outside without enough water can not only hurt that pet, but it can also land a pet owned in jail because animal neglect is a crime.  Ryan says there are steps pet parents can take to make sure their animals stay as cool as possible.

CUT 7 (09) “drinking water”

Forecasters say the heat index in Louisiana this weekend could reach 110 in some places. Ryan says people should monitor for signs of heat exhaustion in their pets and take necessary action if they think their animal is overheating.

CUT 8 (11) “as possible”

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State Treasurer John Kennedy has announced that Louisiana has received $2.4 million for residents who are owed money from a settlement after the 2008 housing bubble burst. Kennedy says if your home was foreclosed during the financial crisis, you can go to LaTreasury.com to see if you have any unclaimed money.

CUT 9 (08) “in Louisiana”

Kennedy says most of the money belongs to people in Jefferson, East Baton Rouge, Orleans, St. Tammany and Caddo parishes. But he says they have money for people all around the state. He says the average amount owed is $300.

cut 10 (06)  “like never”

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Governor John Bel Edwards said he would not veto language in the appropriations bill that would “front load” the TOPS scholarship program. The governor added that a student’s tuition would be mostly funded in the fall, but they’d have to cover more than half in the spring. Higher Education Commissioner Dr. Joe Rallo says they support the governor…:

Cut 11 (06) “and how much”

But those who oppose say this would place a massive burden on students in the spring. Edwards did criticize the legislation calling it a disingenuous budgeting gimmick by the Louisiana Legislature. Rallo says Edwards had a different plan in mind…:

cut 12 (08) “30%”

Edwards says students should be prepared for cuts to TOPS in the fall, and an even bigger cut in the spring. But he said he believes vetoing the legislation would cause chaos just weeks before the next semester begins. Rallo says they respect the governor’s opinion…:

Cut 13 (06)  “potential challenge”

================================

A Rapides Parish Sheriff’s deputy has been arrested for solicitation of prostitution. State Trooper Scott Moreau says the investigation into 48-year-old Stacy Bender revealed he had an inappropriate relationship.

cut 14 (08)  “on duty”

The Rapides Parish Sheriff’s Office says Bender was a deputy for over 17 years and has been terminated. Moreau says Bender is facing a total of 12 charges, and the investigation is ongoing.

cut 15 (11) “criminal records”

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The expanded Medicaid program begins today, and many Louisianans now have health insurance for the first time. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is giving out tips in the event of an alligator encounter. Emelie Gunn has more on how to stay safe…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Able-bodied food stamp recipients without dependents who do not work or go to school will now be required to participate in job training programs because of an executive order that goes into effect today. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The state’s newly expanded Medicaid program goes into effect today, and the Louisiana Department of Health says some people may be able to see a doctor for the first time in their lives. Secretary Rebekah Gee says the expansion will improve health outcomes for Louisiana residents.

cut 4  (11)  “July 1”

Gee says people who have not already enrolled can do so at healthy.la.gov. She says this expansion means more people will have access to cancer screenings, medication, and primary care physicians. She says it changes the dynamic of the insured population in Louisiana.

Cut 5  (07)  “uninsured”

Gee says the expansion also has a lot of economic benefits for the state, including bringing more federal tax dollars to Louisiana and boosting revenue at hospitals and clinics.

Cut 6 (10) “new revenue”

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Summer is upon us and many people will be out enjoying the water, so the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries is giving out some tips on what to do in the event of an alligator encounter. LDWF Alligator Program Manager Edmond Mouton says whatever you do, don’t feed or approach alligators…

CUT 7 (09)  “aggressive”

Mouton says use common sense if you see an alligator. He says if you see an alligator in an area that could pose a public safety hazard, call LDWF immediately because state law prohibits taking it into your own hands.

Cut 8  (08)  “professionals”

Mouton advises Louisiana residents to visit LA-gator-program-dot-com (LAgatorprogram.com) to learn more about what to do when encountering an alligator and the history of the reptile.

Cut 9 (11)  “alligator industry”

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Beginning today, able-bodied food stamp recipients without dependents will be required to participate in job-training if they do not work or go to school. DCFS Deputy Assistant Secretary, Sammy Guillory, says the requirement could be different on a case by case basis.

Cut 10 (12) “or GED”

Guillory says this is the first statewide work initiative for SNAP recipients, as only five parishes had the requirement before the governor’s executive order. He says this requirement will help people who are able to transition off the assistance program.

cut 11 (09) “self-sufficient”

Guillory says this new requirement will affect about 52-thousand food stamp recipients. He says not participating in the job training could have consequences for those who depend on the SNAP assistance.

cut 12 (10) “SNAP benefits”

________________________________________________

Two people have been arrested in connection to the death of a Slidell man who was the victim of a deadly social media scheme. 28-year-old Terrance Calloway and 23-year-old Dana Lemar are charged with second degree murder and obstruction of justice. Slidell Police Chief Randy Smith says investigators used cell phone information to try and locate where the victim, 25-year-old Cordarlye Roberts, could be.”

Cut 13 (07)  “their parish”

Jefferson Parish Sheriff Newell Normand says this started as a date that was intended to be a robbery. He says the victim met Lemar on Facebook, and they set up a date. He says Calloway and Lemar met up with Roberts in Slidell.

cut 14 (12)  “the victim”

Normand says it’s dangerous to meet up with strangers you met online. He says you never know who you’re dealing with on the internet.

Cut 15 (06) “very risky”

Two arrests have been made in connection with the Raising Canes manager who was murdered at work in Kenner. Kenner Police Chief Michael Glaser says the second suspect arrested, 24-year-old Mark Crocklen Jr., turned himself in when he found out about the murder…:

CUT 3 (10)  “whole plan”

23-year-old Joshua Every and Crocklen are both charged with armed robbery and first degree murder.

The Revenue Estimating Conference learned today that lawmakers raised $371 million dollars in revenue that can be used in the budget year that begins Friday. But Ron Henson with the State Treasurer’s Office says there are still concerns that Louisiana won’t be able to pay its bills until taxes are collected and it’s possible state government will have to borrow money…:

cut 12 (09) “interest expense”

Iberia Parish Sheriff Louis Ackal is accused of using an anti-Semitic slur about a federal prosecutor in a secret recording. Emelie Gunn has more on a motion being filed to present the audio to a jury in Ackal’s case…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

Four dogs were seized during a Baton Rouge narcotics arrest, and two people are now facing cruelty charges. The dogs reportedly had open wounds and did not have adequate food, water or shelter as they were tied up with chains in the back yard. Police say Ridarian Fleming was first arrested after he claimed ownership of the dogs. East Baton Rouge Parish Animal Control says Whitney West tried to claim the dogs after they were seized, and she was also arrested.

The mother of the 21-year-old Raising Cane’s shift manager who was killed during an armed robbery is asking why someone would do something so vicious. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

================

Iberia Parish Sheriff Louis Ackal is accused of using an anti-Semitic slur about a federal prosecutor in a secret recording. Emelie Gunn has more on a motion being filed to present the audio to a jury in Ackal’s case…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Police say the Raising Canes manager who was murdered at work in Kenner was brutally stabbed 8 times while laying on the floor. They say three suspects are now in custody in the death of 21-year-old Taylor Friloux. Kenner Police Chief Michael Glaser says the second suspect arrested, 24-year-old Mark Crocklen Jr., turned himself in when he found out about the murder…:

CUT 3 (10)  “whole plan”

23-year-old Joshua Every and Crocklen are both charged with armed robbery and first degree murder. Glaser says they also have another suspect in custody, and police are still searching for one more. He says the only inconsistency in the stories police have heard is who did the stabbing, but the video clearly shows what happened.

CUT 4 (10)  “the floor”

Police say Friloux was stabbed 8 times. Glaser says she initially resisted opening the door for them men but was forced to when she was stabbed in the chest. Friloux’s mother spoke at a press conference saying she doesn’t understand how someone could do something like this.

CUT 5 (11)  “to this”

Police say this was a planned robbery, and only $1,000 was stolen.

===============================================

An officer-involved shooting in Monroe left one suspect dead in the overnight hours. State Trooper Michael Reichardt says police responded to a domestic violence call just after midnight, but the suspect was not there when they arrived. He says Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Deputies found the suspect at another residence.

CUT 6 (09) “a weapon”

Reichardt says the deputies took cover under the carport. He says they told the suspect multiple times to drop his weapon.

CUT 7 (07) “on scene”

Witnesses reportedly heard 8 to 10 gunshots, but police have not confirmed how many shots were fired. Reichardt says the deputies were not harmed in the incident, and the investigation is ongoing.

CUT 8 (03) “at this time” 

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Iberia Parish Sheriff Louis Ackal is accused of calling a federal prosecutor in his pending civil rights case a “sorry son-of-a-b***h” and an anti-Semitic slur in a secret recording. Prosecutors filed a motion to have the audio presented to a jury in Ackal’s trial. Legal Analyst Tim Meche says there two ways to look at this…:

CUT 9 (11) “legally”

Meche says Ackal did not know he was being recorded when he made anti-Semitic remarks about the federal prosecutor, who is assumed to be Mark Blumberg. He says permission must be given when being voice recorded.

cut 10 (10)  “legally obtained”

The prosecutors want to use the audio to put new conditions on Ackal’s bond, like avoiding contact the alleged victims in the case,  refraining from excessive drinking of alcohol and being subject to unannounced home inspections. Meche says it’ll be interesting to see how this plays out in the court of public opinion…

Cut 11 (10) “might agree”

===================================================

The Revenue Estimating Conference learned today that lawmakers raised $371 million dollars in revenue that can be used in the budget year that begins Friday. But Ron Henson with the State Treasurer’s Office says there are still concerns that Louisiana won’t be able to pay its bills until taxes are collected and it’s possible state government will have to borrow money…:

cut 12 (09) “interest expense”

Cuts will still need to be made on government services when the new fiscal year starts tomorrow, but the concern is that there will be a deficit in the current year that would carry over. Henson says even with the work that the legislature did in the two special sessions, there are still major money problems ahead…:

Cut 13 (09)  “for sure”

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The state’s highest court has suspended two 18th District judges without pay, due to misconduct. Judge Robin Free and Judge James Best’s region covers Iberville, Pointe Coupee and West Baton Rouge parishes. Judge Alvin Batiste, who also handles cases in that district, said anytime a judge is punished, it is serious…:

cut 14 (10)  “that code”

The Supreme Court suspended Free for a year for four violations — including interrupting a meeting between prosecutors and a victim’s family, and making in appropriate comments. Best was suspended 15 days for ending probation early for a sex offender who was a friend. Batiste says this is a lesson learned for, not only his two colleagues…:

cut 15 (07) “acceptable”

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More Americans than ever are going to be traveling for the Independence Day weekend. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Lawmakers adjourned from the second special session a week ago today, and they passed 6 constitutional amendment proposals that will appear on the November ballot. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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The statewide Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign begins today, as law enforcement seek to reduce drunk driving this Fourth of July weekend. Halen Doughty has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Halen Doughty”

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Starting today through Monday, more Americans than ever are expected to be hitting the road for the 4^th of July weekend. Triple A Spokesperson Don Redman says close to 43 million people will be traveling over the holiday, which is five million more than Memorial Day. He says it’s going to be a very busy time on the roadways.

cut 4  (10)  “this holiday”

Redman says the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in the state is $2.10, we haven’t seen prices this low since 2005. He says the entire country has saved about 60 billion dollars that would normally have gone into the gas tank.

Cut 5  (07)  “other expenses”

Redman says if you’re traveling by car try to leave before and after peak times. He says even though many people are hitting the roads over the long weekend, some Americans are using alternate means of transportation…

Cut 6 (10) “well divided”

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The second special session ended a week ago today, and lawmakers proposed several constitutional amendments to be decided by voters in November. President of the Public Affairs Research Council, Robert Travis Scott, says there will be six changes on the ballot in the fall. He says one of them would change the state’s corporate income taxes.

CUT 7 (08)  “they pay”

Scott says in exchange, companies would get a lower flat tax. He says the highest corporate tax is currently about 8%, and this would lower that to about 6%. He says another amendment would affect those who have lost a spouse in the line of duty.

Cut 8  (09)  “of duty”

Scott says one proposal would no longer allow the legislature to set tuition at colleges and universities, and that power would go to higher education boards instead. He says some of the amendments are rather technical, so voters need to do their homework.

Cut 9 (09)  “not do”

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A statewide campaign begins today that seeks to reduce drunk driving this Fourth of July weekend. Jessica Bedwell with the Louisiana Highway Safety Commission says the Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over campaign will include multiple enforcement efforts aimed at keeping drunk drivers off the road. She says this risky behavior can result in more than just a DWI.

Cut 10 (10) “these tragedies”

Bedwell says they also ask people to eliminate distractions while behind the wheel and focus on driving safely. She says they want everyone to enjoy the weekend, but they ask that they have a plan to get home safely before the party begins.

cut 11 (08) “contact police”

Bedwell says they are expecting increased traffic on the roads this weekend. She says there are usually more cases of drunk driving when the holiday falls on a day that gives people a long weekend.

cut 12 (09) “involving alcohol”

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Three of the major Republican candidates for the U.S. Senate seat being vacated by David Vitter appeared at a debate in Baton Rouge to discuss why they should be elected on November 8^th. Congressman Charles Boustany says he wants to create a better sense of trust between the people and government. He says it’s time to get serious about solving Louisiana’s problems.

Cut 13 (11)  “the table”

Democrat Foster Campbell apologized for not being able to attend the debate. Congressman John Fleming says he has a record of fighting for what the people of Louisiana want. He says it’s time for Washington to start listening.

cut 14 (09)  “growth rates”

State Treasurer John Kennedy says government is too big and plans to give the power to the people. He says he is strong enough to go to Washington and take his country back.

Cut 15 (11) “DC”

The Inspector General’s Office has issued a report that shows a film company claimed over $1 million in fraudulent tax credits. Halen Doughty has more…

CUT 1 (31)  “I’m Halen Doughty”

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A 21-year-old was killed during an armed robbery at the Raising Cane’s in Kenner. Michelle Southern reports…

CUT 2 (31)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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An armed robbery at a Raising Cane’s in Kenner left a 21-year-old dead from multiple stab wounds. Police say the robbery happened just before 1:30 am. Kenner Police Chief Michael Glaser says two Cane’s employees were confronted by armed men when they took the trash out after closing.

CUT 3 (11)  “the business”

Glaser says after the robbery, witnesses report two black men in gray hoodies fled the scene in a vehicle that was waiting outside. He says the victim is identified as 21-year-old Taylor Friloux.

CUT 4 (08)  “while inside”

Friloux was taken to a local hospital in critical condition, and she later died. It’s reported that one suspect is in custody after the Cane’s employees identified 23-year-old Josh Every as possibly being involved in the robbery\stabbing. Glaser says police are still looking for other suspects, as there were several people involved in this crime.

CUT 5 (09)  “that vehicle”

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Inspector General Stephen Street has announced that a film company claimed over $1 million in fraudulent tax exemptions in Louisiana. Street says Horizon Entertainment and Productions claimed excess expenses in the 2011 filming of The Sean Payton Show and the documentary Saintsational. 

CUT 6 (08) “at all”

Street says Horizon performed 263 online wire transfers in one day. He says the amount was never more than $39-thousand, but they did it enough times that it amounted to over $2 million in transfers, which they claimed as expenses in their tax credit application.

CUT 7 (07) “that money”

Street says his office is recommending additional changes to the state’s film tax credit program to prevent fraudulent claims because Louisiana cannot afford it.

CUT 8 (10) “been issued”

Horizon denies doing anything wrong.

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State Police say an off duty Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Deputy is facing a DWI. Trooper Jesse LaGrange says Tara Whitney was pulled over in Houma after an officer noticed she wasn’t wearing her seat belt. He says the trooper noticed an open alcohol container and Whitney showed signs of impairment so a field sobriety test was conducted…

CUT 9 (09) “necessary action”

LaGrange says Lieutenant Whitney is a juvenile officer and has been placed on administrative leave until the investigation is complete. He says Whitney faces multiple charges.

cut 10 (10)  “no seat belt”

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A man has died after being hit by two vehicles while walking down the road in Webster parish. Senior State Trooper Michael Reichardt says 67-year-old Tommy Helms was walking down Highway 371 around 1 am.

Cut 11 (09) “Mr. Helms”

Reichardt says Helms was initially struck by 57-year-old Brenda Smith, which knocked him into the other lane, where 66-year-old Barbara Mills was driving.

cut 12 (06) “Chevrolet Malibu”

Reichardt says the investigation is ongoing, and toxicology reports are pending.

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Today the Louisiana Interstate Highway System turns 60 years old and the Department of Transportation has released a state of the interstate report. DOTD Secretary Sean Wilson says our system is very valuable, effective but sometimes over capacity. He says if we want to keep up our interstate we’re going to have to make some improvements.

Cut 13 (10)  “investment”

But Wilson says we have an interstate system we can be proud of. He says only 26% of the pavement is in poor or mediocre condition.

cut 14 (10)  “and maintain”

Wilson says they’re going to work on improving parts of I-10 and I-20 to make room for more travelers. He says travel has increased by 43% on Louisiana’s interstates from 2000 to 2014…

cut 15 (08) “miles traveled”

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