A former investigator with the DA’s Office in Washington Parish has been indicted by a grand jury amidst allegations he used his position to force women to have sex with him. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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

The latest installment of Star Wars opened Friday to an extremely eager audience and the hype is just about everywhere you go. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (30)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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

A former investigator with the DA’s Office in Washington Parish has been indicted by a grand jury amidst allegations he used his position to force women to have sex with him. Chief Deputy Mike Haley says 66-year-old Michael Cotton of Bogalusa allegedly threatened a female drug offender to obtain sex. He says the victims assisted in the investigation…:

CUT 3 (10)  “Mr. Cotton”

Haley says, between about March 2013 and July 2015, Cotton is also accused of helping a woman obtain drugs and use the influence of his position for sex with another woman…:

CUT 4 (08)  “that they had”

22nd Judicial District DA Warren Montgomery says it greatly disturbs him that a member of the criminal justice system would deal drugs and prey on the vulnerable. Cotton had been hired part time by the previous administration but was later fired by Montgomery in August. Haley says Cotton faces serious charges…:

CUT 5 (08)  “bond (2x)”

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

The bodies of a Vernon Parish woman and her 9-year-old son have been found, and authorities have placed the victim’s fiance under arrest. Vernon Parish Sheriff Sam Craft says family members reported 32-year-old Misty Marshall and her three children missing on December 4th. He says they were able to locate two children safe, but later discovered Marshal and her son, dead:

CUT 6 (11) “woods road”

Craft says Marshal’s fiance, Matthew Dotson, was arrested and charged with one count of first-degree murder and is currently being held on 2 million dollars bond. He says more charges could be coming…:(Craft says 32-year-old Misty Marshall, who had not been seen since before Thanksgiving, was located in a wooded area near New Llano, and her child was found near the home where he lived with his family in Simpson.)

CUT 7 (11) “assistance” 

Craft says they are unsure of motive at this time or how the two were killed, but they do believe their bodies were dumped around the end of November. He says this tragic crime has rocked these small communities…:

CUT 8 (10) “to dealing with”

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

The latest installment of Star Wars opened Friday to an extremely eager audience and the hype is just about everywhere you go. For it’s preview showings alone, “The Force Awakens” brought in a record breaking $57 million dollars at box offices in the US. This Louisiana kid went on opening day and says he’s the biggest Star Wars fan you’ve ever met…:

CUT 9 (07)  “everything”

Star Wars Episode 7 has maintained a mid 90 percentile approval rating on the critic website Rotten Tomatoes which writes, “believe the hype.” This Louisiana kid dressed up as his favorite character to wear to the movie on opening day…:

cut 10 (06)  “right here”

This Louisiana Star Wars fan says he’s been waiting years to learn the next evolution of the story…:

Cut 11 (11) “kinda crazy”

______________________________________________________

Outgoing Angola Warden Burl Cain is the subject of an investigation conducted by multiple agencies. The Department of Corrections, State Police and the Inspector General’s office didn’t provide many details at a press conference. Inspector General Stephen Street says they are trying to get to the facts in an efficient manner…

cut 12 (10) “more efficiently”

Cain has served as Angola’s warden for 21 years, but is resigning effective December 31st. There’s been a series of investigative reports by the Advocate newspaper that’s looked into questionable real estate dealings involving Cain. State Police Colonel Mike Edmonson says he sent a team of investigators to Angola…

cut 13 (09)  “through those”

Cain has said he’s done nothing wrong. Greg Phares with the Inspector General’s Office says there are allegations that go beyond real estate transactions, but Corrections Secretary James Leblanc couldn’t elaborate

cut 14 (11)  “that way” 

A request for a lower bond is denied in the case of a Marksville deputy who is connected to the fatal shooting of a six-year-old boy. Jeff Palermo has the story…1

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Jeff Palermo”

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

The New Orleans City Council has voted for the removal of four confederate monuments from their current location. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 2 (31)  “Emelie Gunn”

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

Newly announced key cabinet members say they are up to the challenge of taking on their role for the incoming Edwards Administration. Former Congressman Charlie Melancon will be the new head of the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. He says he’s looking forward to trying to find a balance between private and commercial fisherman…:

CUT 3 (08)  “Wildlife and Fisheries”

Melancon served in the US House of Representatives from 2006-2011. Shawn Wilson will take the reins as Secretary of the Department of Transportation. He’s been the DOTD Chief of Staff for 10 years and looks forward to carrying out Edwards’ vision for a comprehensive transportation system…:

CUT 4 (10)  “in trucks”

Some had questioned whether or not Edwards would keep on Col Mike Edmonson as the Superintendent of State Police. The Governor-elect said local law enforcement officials including the Sheriff’s Association and the Chiefs of Police reached out to him and expressed their desire to see Edmonson continue to serve…:

CUT 5 (09)  “his leadership”

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

A Baton Rouge man was arrested for placing a small camera in the men’s urinal at an office building. Baton Rouge Police Cpl. L’Jean Mckneey says 52-year-old Stephen McCants was charged with Video Voyeurism after a man found his camera in the bathroom and notified authorities

CUT 6 (10) “of Stephen McCants”

Mckneely says after the photo was released to the media, they got many tips alerting them that the man in the video was Stephen McCants. He says once he was brought in for questioning, McCants admitted to placing the camera in the bathroom.

CUT 7 (07) “on someone” 

Mckneely says they were able to obtain a search warrant for McCants’ house and found additional footage from the camera. He says even though McCants claims it was a joke, putting a video camera in the rest room is always illegal.

CUT 8 (04) “video voyeurism”

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

The New Orleans City Council votes for  the removal of four confederate monuments from their current locations. The council made its decision after passionate arguments from both sides. The first person to speak was New Orleans Mayor Mitch Landrieu, who called on the council to remove the monuments after a mass shooting at an African American church in South Carolina.

CUT 9 (11)  “much more”

Landrieu proposes that the monuments, including the one of General Robert E. Lee, be moved to a museum. He says it’s time for the city to cut its ties with our Confederate past….

cut 10 (10)  “as slaves”

A Pro-monument speaker discussed how the monuments are part of New Orleans’ rich culture. He relayed a quote from a blogger in favor of keeping up the statues…

Cut 11 (09 “repeat it”

The pro-monument speaker says they would like to place interpretive plaques on the monuments to explain the current and past meaning of each statue. He says the monuments help to make the city unique.

cut 12 (11) “fair minded”

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

Louisiana public schools received an overall letter grade of “B” from the state department of education. That’s based on a vareity of factors including test and graduation data from the previous school  year. State Superintendent of Education John White

cut 13 (10)  “are all increasing”

Ten school districts received an “A” grade, 30 received a “B” grade, while nine school districts have a “D” grade and two school districts received a failing grade. White says it will be more difficult to achieve an “A” or “B” score in future years…

cut 14 (10)  “basic education” 

Go to Louisiana-believes-dot-com to find out the letter grade of the public school your child attends.  White says the department of education has taken steps to improve school performance over the last 10 years…

cut 15 (10)  “teachers”

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

***Now with McNeese State Story and fix to JBE duplicate cut***

Louisiana State Police graduates 57 new troopers today. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (33) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The LSU Vet School has a reminder to keep your pets safe during the holiday season. Don Molino has more…

Cut 3 (33) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

Louisiana State Police is graduating a new cadet class today. These 57 men and women have been in training for the last 16 weeks and will continue field training for 12 weeks after graduation. Trooper Nick Manale says this is their third cadet class in the past few years and they’re excited to increase the number of troopers in Louisiana.

cut 4  (07)  “out there”

Manale says everyone who starts a State Police career begins in the patrol section. He says each cadet is assigned to a troop area across Louisiana to keep our roadways and communities safe.

Cut 5  (10)  “troop location”

Manale says there isn’t a set date for the next cadet class but he encourages everyone interested to submit an application.

Cut 6 (09)  “new academy”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. State Police Col Mike Edmonson will remain at his post, former US Representative Charlie Melancon will be the new Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary, DOTD Chief of staff Shawn Wilson will now head the agency. Edwards says he’s delivering on his promise to establish a staff that looks like the state…:

CUT 7 (09)  “this team”

Some others listed Wednesday include retiring state Representative Karen St. Germain who will head the Office of Motor Vehicles and Don Pierson will serve as secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. Edwards says he’s proud of the team he’s assembled to tackle the challenges that lie ahead:

Cut 8  (04)  “together”

Major General Glenn Curtis will remain head of the Louisiana National Guard, Joey Strickland will be the Secretary of the Department of Veterans Affairs and Juana Marine-Lombard will be the new ATC Commissioner. Edwards says he know Louisiana has a tough road ahead, but he’s never been more optimistic about the future of our state…:

Cut 9 (10) “people first”

______________________________________

The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that it would raise interest rates for the first time in nearly a decade, so what does this mean for Louisianians? State Treasurer John Kennedy says the Fed lowered rates to almost zero during the 2008 financial crisis, but moved it up .25 percent to .5 percent. He says this means a couple things for consumers…:

Cut 10 (10) “little bit” 

Kennedy says the Fed is taking baby steps as a one quarter of 1% rate increase will only modestly impact consumers. He says if you have a savings account…:

cut 11 (05) “earning interest”

Kennedy says even though we’re not totally seeing the impacts in Louisiana due to a struggling oil industry, this is a sign the Fed believes the economy as a whole is healthier…

Cut 12 (10) “much better”

_____________________________________

The LSU Vet School wants to remind pet owners to be careful when feeding their animals table food during the holidays. Assistant Professor Dr. Nancy Welborne says every year during this time, their clinics see an increase in digestive issues with family pets, often because of eating a high fat diet that they’re not used to.

Cut 13 (10)  “problems”

Welborne says also, beware when your children are dumping out their stockings that your dog doesn’t get ahold of any chocolate because it’s highly toxic. She says milk chocolate is the least harmful, while dark chocolate is the most and it only takes a little to make your pet sick.

Cut 14 (06) “cause seizures”

Welborne says peanut butter is also a no-no for feeding your dog because of some sweetening agents. She advises people to watch out for toys and ornaments to make sure pets don’t ingest or choke on parts.

Cut 15  (08) “or decoration”

 __________________________________

McNeese State officially announced Defensive Coordinator Lance Guidry will be the next head coach of The Cowboys, taking over for Matt Viator. Guidry is, who played at McNeese from 1990-1993, served as Viator’s defensive coordinator since 2013. He’s popular with fans as his fiery pre-game speeches before both bowl games became widely-viewed his on social media. Guidry was fired up today…:

Cut 16  (17)  “applause”

McNeese wanted to act quickly before an NCAA-mandated recruiting dead period closes this Saturday. Guidry was extremely excited about getting this job…:

Cut 17 (13) “back in the saddle”

Guidry says one of the major things he’ll be looking for in his team is enthusiasm…:

Cut 18 (11) “national championship”

Louisiana State Police graduates 57 new troopers today. Emelie Gunn has more…

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. Michelle Southern reports…:

Cut 2 (33) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

 The LSU Vet School has a reminder to keep your pets safe during the holiday season. Don Molino has more…

Cut 3 (33) “I’m Don Molino”

______________________________________

Louisiana State Police is graduating a new cadet class today. These 57 men and women have been in training for the last 16 weeks and will continue field training for 12 weeks after graduation. Trooper Nick Manale says this is their third cadet class in the past few years and they’re excited to increase the number of troopers in Louisiana.

cut 4  (07)  “out there”

Manale says everyone who starts a State Police career begins in the patrol section. He says each cadet is assigned to a troop area across Louisiana to keep our roadways and communities safe.

Cut 5  (10)  “troop location”

Manale says there isn’t a set date for the next cadet class but he encourages everyone interested to submit an application.

Cut 6 (09)  “new academy”

______________________________________

Governor-elect John Bel Edwards announced some members of his cabinet and staff during a news conference Wednesday. State Police Col Mike Edmonson will remain at his post, former US Representative Charlie Melancon will be the new Wildlife and Fisheries Secretary, DOTD Chief of staff Shawn Wilson will now head the agency. Edwards says he’s delivering on his promise to establish a staff that looks like the state…:

CUT 7 (09)  “this team”

Some others listed Wednesday include retiring state Representative Karen St. Germain who will head the Office of Motor Vehicles and Don Pierson will serve as secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. Edwards says he’s proud of the team he’s assembled to tackle the challenges that lie ahead:

Cut 8  (04)  “together”

Some others listed Wednesday include retiring state Representative Karen St. Germain who will head the Office of Motor Vehicles and Don Pierson will serve as secretary of Louisiana Economic Development. Edwards says he’s proud of the team he’s assembled to tackle the challenges that lie ahead:

Cut 9 (10) “people first”

______________________________________

 The Federal Reserve announced Wednesday that it would raise interest rates for the first time in nearly 7 years, so what does this mean for Louisianians? State Treasurer John Kennedy says the Fed lowered rates to almost zero during the 2008 financial crisis, but moved it up .25 percent to .5 percent. He says this means a couple things for consumers…:

Cut 10 (10) “little bit” 

Kennedy says the Fed is taking baby steps as a one quarter of 1% rate increase will only modestly impact consumers. He says if you have a savings account…:

cut 11 (05) “earning interest”

 Kennedy says even though we’re not totally seeing the impacts in Louisiana due to a struggling oil industry, this is a sign the Fed believes the economy as a whole is healthier…

Cut 12 (10) “much better”

_____________________________________

The LSU Vet School wants to remind pet owners to be careful when feeding their animals table food during the holidays. Assistant Professor Dr. Nancy Welborne says every year during this time, their clinics see an increase in digestive issues with family pets, often because of eating a high fat diet that they’re not used to.

Cut 13 (10)  “problems”

Welborne says also, beware when your children are dumping out their stockings that your dog doesn’t get ahold of any chocolate because it’s highly toxic. She says milk chocolate is the least harmful, while dark chocolate is the most and it only takes a little to make your pet sick.

Cut 14 (06) “cause seizures”

Welborne says peanut butter is also a no-no for feeding your dog because of some sweetening agents. She advises people to watch out for toys and ornaments to make sure pets don’t ingest or choke on parts.

Cut 15  (08) “or decoration”

 _________________________

You may want to think twice about purchasing a drone for a holiday gift as the Federal Aviation Administration released new regulations for registering the unmanned aerial vehicles. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (30)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

Police in Tangipahoa Parish are investigating an apparent “love triangle” double murder/suicide that has shocked the town of Independence. Emelie Gunn reports…:

CUT 2 (29)  “Emelie Gunn”

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

You may want to think twice about purchasing a drone for a holiday gift as the Federal Aviation Administration released new regulations for registering the unmanned aerial vehicles. FAA spokesperson Lynn Lunsford says concerns about collisions prompted the new rules. He says they’re currently investigating an incident where a drone possibly took out a window in a helicopter…

CUT 3 (06)  “other stuff”

Any drone weighing between half a pound and 55 pounds must be registered before it can fly. Lunsford says a task force did some mathematical calculations as to how big an aircraft could be to cause damage…

CUT 4 (11)  “to be registered”

You can register your drone online at FAA-dot-gov beginning December 21st. Drone owners prior to December 21st have until February 19th to register. There is a $5 fee to register your drone. Lunsford encourages drone operators to learn some basic safety rules before taking flight…

CUT 5 (11)  “over crowds”

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

The Louisiana Oil and Gas Industry is applauding Congress for wrapping up a deal late Tuesday that included a provision that would lift the four-decade ban on most exports of oil. It’s included in the year-end tax and spending package. Louisiana Oil and Gas Association President Don Briggs says this would be a huge help to their industry…:

CUT 6 (07) “destiny”

Congressman Steve Scalise has been a huge supporter of the change and hopes the bill will pass out of both the House and Senate by the end of this week so it can head to the President’s desk. Briggs says this would make the US more energy independent and create thousands of jobs in the state:

CUT 7 (06) “would help” 

Briggs says the energy sector in Louisiana is suffering in the face of record low drilling, so any jobs coming back to the industry would help. Daryl Malek-Wiley is the Louisiana spokesman for the Sierra Club, an environmental group who opposes lifting the ban. He says exporting oil would possibly cause the price to go up for American consumers…:

CUT 8 (10) “back up again”

The export ban was the result of oil shortages in the 1970s. Malek-Wiley says they feel dirty fuels should be left in the ground and the US should focus on transitioning to renewable forms of energy…:

CUT 9 (07)  “of homes”

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

In an e-mail to supporters, former Republican congressman Joseph Cao (GOW) announced his plans to run for Senator David Vitter’s soon to be vacant seat. Cao is the first Vietnamese-American to ever serve in Congress. Political analyst Clancy Dubos says Cao is no stranger to being an underdog…

cut 10 (11)  “Cedric Richmond”

Cao represented the 2nd congressional district from 2009 – 2011. Cao joins fellow Republicans Congressmen Charles Boustany and John Fleming in announcing their intent to seek the seat. Dubos says you can expect to see many more entering the race…

Cut 11 (10) “get re-elected”

Cao wrote that a growing Republican field would work to his advantage in this race. He also stated that this is a great opportunity to have a Vietnamese-American voice in the Senate. Dubos doesn’t believe that alone will get Cao in the runoff…

cut 12 (09)  “in the primary”

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

Entergy Louisiana is reminding residents to beware of scammers during the holiday season. Spokesperson Kacee Kirschvink says people will receive a phone call telling them they’re payment is late and to pay up or their services will be shut off. She says Entergy will never request immediate payment.

cut 13 (09)  “the phone”

Kirschvink says contact authorities directly if you believe you could be a victim of a scam. She says scammers typically find a third party card or transfer system to take your money.

cut 14 (09)  “a card” 

Kirschvink says Entergy only uses BillMatrix to accept payments online or over the phone. She says often during the holiday season, we get wrapped up in what we need to do that we let our guard down.

cut 15 (10)  “for you”

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

There’s been a big buzz this week over disturbing reports that forced labor is being used for the shelling of shrimp being imported into the US from factories in Thailand. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Tech football team has arrived in the Big Easy in advance of Saturday’s R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

Firearm dealers are urging people buying guns as Christmas presents to be cautious. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

There’s a big buzz this week over disturbing reports that forced labor is being used for the shelling of shrimp being imported into the US from factories in Thailand. Thomas Hymel (EE-Mel) with the LSU Ag Center Sea Grant program estimates that more than 90% of our food is imported. He says most of the shrimp and seafood we eat, comes from places like Thailand

cut 4  (08)  “the spotlight”

Hymel says there are many countries who export products to us that engage in slave labor for a bigger profit and, the majority of the time, nobody knows it’s going on. He says what we as consumers can do is to start paying better attention to where the seafood we buy comes from and make sure that it’s a Louisiana product..:

Cut 5  (09)  “at all”

Hymel says our shrimpers here in Louisiana had extremely low prices at the dock this year because the imported product was coming in so cheap, it was all some locals could do to break even. He says it’s a shame that the product is coming in from such despicable factories who use practices such as child slave labor — and it appears to be gaining more scrutiny…:

Cut 6 (10)  “half the price”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Tech football team has arrived in the Big Easy in advance of Saturday’s R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. The 8-4 Bulldogs will face the 9-3 Arkansas State Red Wolves in the game that kicks off at 8PM in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Tech head coach Skip Holtz says now that game week is here, the team is enthused to get going…

CUT 7 (08)  “at the end”

Arkansas State, the Sun Belt Conference champions, come into the game riding an eight game winning streak. Holtz says the Red Wolves is a talented team, especially on the defensive side of the ball where they lead the nation in creating turnovers and interceptions…

Cut 8  (09)  “they played”

Saturday’s game will be televised on ESPN. Bulldog seniors have the opportunity to win their 31st game as a class for Tech. Holtz says his seniors are ready to hit the field one last time in a Louisiana Tech jersey…

Cut 9 (07) “on the field”

______________________________________

Two plantations in Louisiana have been nominated for the 10 Best Historic Home Tours by USA Today. Houmas House Plantation and Gardens in Darrow and Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie are among 20 historic houses on the list. Kevin Kelly is the owner of Houmas House. He says they are thrilled to have been selected…

Cut 10 (09) “for me” 

You can vote once a day, every day through December 21^st online at 10-Best-dot-com (10Best.com). Kelly says Houmas House is ranked number three as of right now and believes their variety of unique experiences along with the historic house helped to place them in the top 10.

cut 11 (08) “art collection”

Oak Alley Plantation, which is currently ranked number 9 on the list, is known as one of the most photographed plantations in Louisiana. The antebellum mansion was built in 1839  and has 28 huge live oak trees leading up to the plantation.

Kelly says the gardens are an ornamental piece of Houmas House and the seasonal changes bring many people to visit the Darrow plantation more than once.

Cut 12 (11) “Houmas House”

_____________________________________

If you’re planning on buying a gun for someone else for Christmas this year, firearm dealers are urging you to be cautious. Federally licensed sellers are required to perform background checks and customers who purchase a gun for someone who couldn’t pass, called straw purchase, face serious consequences. Blake Boudreaux, general manager at Lafayette Shooters, advises people to really know the person they’re buying for.

Cut 13 (11)  “with you”

Boudreaux says the federal government takes the crime of straw purchasing extremely serious. He says during the holiday season it’s often hard to discern between a gift buyer and a person purchasing a gun for someone who couldn’t pass a background check.

Cut 14 (07) “judgement”

Boudreaux encourages folks to take measures to protect yourself if you choose to give the gift of a firearm this Christmas. He says there is a program called “don’t lie for the other guy” to let others know the repercussions of a straw purchase.

Cut 15  (09) “in fines”

 __________________________________

There has been a big buzz this week over reports that forced labor is being used for the shelling of shrimp being imported into the US from factories in Thailand. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 1 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Tech football team has arrived in the Big Easy in advance of Saturday’s R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 2 (28) “I’m Eric Gill”

______________________________________

 Firearm dealers are urging people buying guns as Christmas presents to be cautious. Emelie Gunn has more…

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

______________________________________

There has been a big buzz this week over disturbing reports that forced labor is being used for the shelling of shrimp being imported into the US from factories in Thailand. Thomas Hymel (EE-Mel) with the LSU Ag Center Sea Grant program estimates that more than 90% of our food is imported. He says most of the shrimp and seafood we eat, comes from places like Thailand

cut 4  (08)  “the spotlight”

Hymel says there are many countries who export products to us that engage in slave labor for a bigger profit and, the majority of the time, nobody knows it’s going on. He says what we as consumers can do is to start paying better attention to where the seafood we buy comes from and make sure that it’s a Louisiana product..:

Cut 5  (09)  “at all”

Hymel says our shrimpers here in Louisiana had extremely low prices at the dock this year because the imported product was coming in so cheap, it was all some locals could do to break even. He says it’s a shame that the product is coming in from such despicable factories who use practices such as child slave labor and more people are starting to pay attention…:

Cut 6 (10)  “half the price”

______________________________________

The Louisiana Tech football team has arrived in the Big Easy in advance of Saturday’s R+L Carriers New Orleans Bowl. The 8-4 Bulldogs will face the 9-3 Arkansas State Red Wolves in the game that kicks off at 8PM in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. Tech head coach Skip Holtz says now that game week is here, the team is enthused to get going…

CUT 7 (08)  “at the end”

Arkansas State, the Sun Belt Conference champions, come into the game riding an eight game winning streak. Holtz says the Red Wolves is a talented team, especially on the defensive side of the ball where they lead the nation in creating turnovers and interceptions…

Cut 8  (09)  “they played”

Saturday’s game will be televised on ESPN. Bulldog seniors have the opportunity to win their 31st game as a class for Tech. Holtz says his seniors are ready to hit the field one last time in a Louisiana Tech jersey…

Cut 9 (07) “on the field”

______________________________________

 Two plantations in Louisiana have been nominated for the 10 Best Historic Home Tours by USA Today. Houmas House Plantation and Gardens in Darrow and Oak Alley Plantation in Vacherie are among 20 historic houses on the list. Kevin Kelly is the owner of Houmas House. He says they are thrilled to have been selected…

Cut 10 (09) “for me” 

You can vote once a day, every day through December 21^st online at 10-Best-dot-com (10Best.com). Kelly says Houmas House is ranked number three as of right now and believes their variety of unique experiences along with the historic house helped to place them in the top 10.

cut 11 (08) “art collection”

 Oak Alley Plantation is currently ranked number 9 on the list and is an antebellum mansion built in 1839 with 28 huge live oak trees leading up to the plantation.  Kelly says the gardens are an ornamental piece of Houmas House and the seasonal changes bring many people to visit the Darrow plantation more than once.

Cut 12 (11) “Houmas House”

_____________________________________

If you’re planning on buying a gun for someone else for Christmas this year, firearm dealers are urging you to be cautious. Federally licensed sellers are required to perform background checks and customers who purchase a gun for someone who couldn’t pass, called straw purchase, face serious consequences. Blake Boudreaux, general manager at Lafayette Shooters, advises people to really know the person they’re buying for.

Cut 13 (11)  “with you”

Boudreaux says the federal government takes the crime of straw purchasing extremely serious. He says during the holiday season it’s often hard to discern between a gift buyer and a person purchasing a gun for someone who couldn’t pass a background check.

Cut 14 (07) “judgement”

Boudreaux encourages folks to take measures to protect yourself if you choose to give the gift of a firearm this Christmas. He says there is a program called “don’t lie for the other guy” to let others know the repercussions of a straw purchase.

Cut 15  (09) “in fines”

Governor Bobby Jindal says, as he looks back on his two terms in office, one of the things he feels he will regret is that his administration didn’t try to do more. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (26)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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

The US Army Corps of Engineers activates increased levee patrols along the Mississippi River in southeast Louisiana due to high water. Emelie Gunn reports…:

CUT 2 (31)  “Emelie Gunn”

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

Governor Bobby Jindal says, as he looks back on his 8 years in office, one of the things he feels he will regret is that his administration didn’t try to do more. But, Jindal says there is one issue he wishes the administration could have pushed through…

CUT 3 (09)  “even stronger”

The governor says he wishes they could have repealed the state’s income tax. Jindal says he’ll never regret the things they tried to do, even if they weren’t successful. He says he always told his cabinet that they’d run out of time before they ran out of things to do…

CUT 4 (08)  “we had here”

Jindal says he hasn’t made any decision about a political future. The governor says he’s currently focusing on wrapping up his administration and making the transition to the new administration as smooth as possible…

CUT 5 (10)  “next year”

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

Two former Destrehan High School teachers accused in a juvenile student sex case, have been formally charged in Jefferson Parish 14 months after the alleged encounter. 25-year-old Rachel Respess is charged with failing to report the commission of a felony, while 33-year-old Shelley Dufresne faces two counts of carnal knowledge of a juvenile. Legal analyst Chick Foret…:

CUT 6 (10) “or the jury”

Both women were originally charged with two counts of carnal knowledge of a juvenile and it wasn’t immediately clear why the Jefferson Parish case resulted in different charges. Foret says with the present charge Respess is facing, she wouldn’t have to register as a sex offender…:

CUT 7 (11) “a sex offense” 

8 months ago, Dufresne pleaded guilty in to an obscenity charge in St. Charles Parish for her month-long relationship with the then 16-year-old. The sexual encounter with Respess allegedly took place at her Kenner apartment. Foret says the Jefferson Parish & St. Charles prosecutors persue the charges based on the evidence before them…:

CUT 8 (10) “phone calls”

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ULM held a press conference this morning to officially announce former McNeese State coach Matt Viator as the new head football coach of the Warhawks. Viator amassed a 77-33 record in his 10 seasons at McNeese leading the Cowboys to four Southland Conference championships. Viator says he looks at this as a great opportunity and a great challenge…

CUT 9 (07)  “the one here”

Viator replaces Todd Berry who was let go after the Warhawks 59-21 loss to Arkansas State on November 14th. McNeese finished this season with a 10-1 record, losing in the second round of the FCS playoffs. Viator says the first order of business is to put together his staff…

cut 10 (08)  “for sure”

The Warhawks finished this season with a 2-11 record. Viator says all he’s tried to do as a head coach is to “do it right” and he’ll bring that approach to ULM…

Cut 11 (07) “going to lose”

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The Army Corps of engineers says they have activated levee patrols in southeast Louisiana due to high water levels on the Mississippi River. Spokesman Ricky Boyett says the gauge on the river in New Orleans reached 11 feet which is a “trigger” to start the additional lookouts…:

cut 12 (06)  “bank stability”

Boyett says Baton Rouge south also reached a trigger point at 31 feet and both levels are expected to rise before falling off dramatically before the weekend. He says the Phase 1 Flood Fight could last a a little more than a week but that depends on mother nature…:

cut 13 (10)  “below 11”

Boyett says heavy loads over the levee are not permitted during the increased protections and, unless special waivers are granted, underground work within 1500 feet of the levee is not allowed. He says the inspections for these flood fights are entirely proactive…:(Boyett says they activate flood fights in different stages to identify any possible issues that could arise so that they can be addressed now before it becomes a problem.)

cut 14 (11)  “an issue” 

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Governor Bobby Jindal spoke at the Baton Rouge Press Club to discuss his accomplishments during his two terms in office. Emelie Gunn has more….

CUT 1 (31) “I’m Emelie Gunn”

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Republican Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany has announced his intent to run US Senate. Eric Gill reports…

Cut 2 (31) “I’m Eric Gill”

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 The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner says heroin overdose deaths have reached a record high in the parish this year. Michelle Southern has more….

Cut 3 (30) “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Governor Bobby Jindal made appearance at the Baton Rouge Press Club to discuss the administration’s accomplishments over the last eight years. Jindal knows some of his policies were unpopular, but believes he did what was best for the state. The governor says he wanted to bring change to the state and it’s important to look at the positive results.

cut 4  (10)  “this state”

Jindal says he took on education reform during his two terms and believes it will have a lasting impact on our state.

Cut 5  (11)  “charter schools”

Jindal says his only regret about his time in office is what he wasn’t able to accomplish. He says reducing spending and cutting taxes were also other accomplishments.

Cut 6 (10)  “tax cuts”

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Republican Lafayette Congressman Charles Boustany has announced his intent to run for the US Senate. He joins fellow Republicans Minden Congressman John Fleming and Col. Rob Maness in seeking the seat being vacated by US Senator David Vitter. Boustany says he wants to bring his record of conservative leadership from the US House to the upper chamber…

CUT 7 (10)  “on the map”

While in Congress, Boustany has brought new Veterans Clinics to Louisiana, and has led efforts in tax reform, health care, and energy policy. Boustany feels his congressional experience will be a benefit in the Senate, especially in dealing with the current state of oil and gas industry…

Cut 8  (10)  “energy commodities”

State Treasurer John Kennedy is expected to jump in the field and PSC member Scott Angelle’s name has been mentioned as a potential candidate. With a large number of Republicans expected to run, Boustany says this race will be about ideas and about a vision for Louisiana…

Cut 9 (10) “lead on”

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 The East Baton Rouge Parish Coroner Beau Clark reports a record number in deaths in the parish due to heroin, in 2015. Clark says this is about a 9-percent increase from 2013. He says we still have two more weeks left in the year, so there is a chance that the number could be even higher.

Cut 10 (10) “of heroin” 

Clark says the likely reasons heroin deaths have increased is because of the prescription monitoring program, which makes prescription drugs harder to access on the street along with a decrease in sentencing for heroin dealers. He says to stop this trend, there should be stricter penalties for dealers and we need to work with heroin users to break the habit.

cut 11 (09) “of it”

 Clark says the drug effects people of all races but the majority of victims are white males. He says there has been a recent change in potency in many batches of heroin across the state, which could instantly kill a drug user.

Cut 12 (06) “to death”

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The Benson family saga took a turn Monday as Saints and Pelicans owner Tom Benson offered to resign as a trustee in a disputed family trust in Texas on the condition that his daugher Renee doesn’t take his place. Legal analyst Tim Meche believes this move means Benson has a weak hand in this case…

Cut 13 (09)  “being deposed”

The family had agreed to mediation before the scheduled February 1st trial date, but this moves looks to settle the case before that. Meche says Renee and other estranged family members have claimed that Tom is being controlled by those around him and this move may back that theory up…

Cut 14 (12) “doing that”

This case does not involve ownership in the NFL or NBA franchises. However, Meche says Benson’s move could be an indication of things to come. He says Benson’s refusal to participate in any of the legal proceedings has forced him into making concessions to the family…

Cut 15  (10) “and the Pelicans”

As crude oil prices continue to fall, Shell has announced they will cut an additional 2,800 jobs. Eric Gill reports…

CUT 1 (29)  “I’m Eric Gill”

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Long lines are expected at the post office today — the busiest mailing day of the year. Michelle Southern reports…:

CUT 2 (27)  “I’m Michelle Southern”

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Shell has announced they will cut an additional 2,800 jobs as crude oil prices continue to fall. The company previously announced a cut of 7,500 jobs. LSU Economist Dr. Loren Scott says, with crude oil prices below $40 a barrel, the entire industry is almost in a panic mode….

CUT 3 (08)  “Gulf of Mexico”

He says the current price of oil makes deepwater exploration in the Gulf of Mexico not profitable. Scott says as long as Saudi Arabia floods the market with crude oil, prices will not improve forcing oil companies to continue to cut back. He says Shell is not the only company making cuts…

CUT 4 (08)  “across the board”

He says one of the few places companies can still make money at these oil prices is the Permian Basin in west Texas. Scott says many companies are concentrating efforts there and that’s not good for Louisiana…

CUT 5 (06)  “can imagine”

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Long lines are expected at the post office today — the busiest mailing day of the year. USPS spokesman McKinney Boyd says, nationwide, they will process more than 600 million pieces of mail today alone. He says lots of folks went Christmas shopping over the weekend, wrapped up their packages Sunday, and today will drop them off at the post office.:

CUT 6 (06) “loved ones”

Boyd says postal workers across the country are already delivering packages seven days a week. For arrival by Christmas, they recommend sending by December 21 for Priority Mail and December 23rd for express shipping. Boyd says package volume is already well above last year’s pace…:

CUT 7 (10) “are increasing” 

Boyd says over the course of the holiday season, 15.5 billion items of mail will be sent worldwide by USPS. He says they have ramped up staff and are ready to roll…:

CUT 8 (09) “December 25th“

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An officer involved shooting early this morning in New Orleans has left one man dead. NOPD Chief Michael Harrison says the incident began following a simple traffic stop. Harrison says they have viewed the body cam footage from Officer Fredrick Carter…

CUT 9 (07)  “returned fire”

He says the body camera shows Officer Carter returning fire after the suspect shot at the him. The subject, whose identity has not been released, was pronounced dead at the scene. Harrison says the incident unfolded quickly…

cut 10 (08)  “very fast”

He says a firearm was found next to the subject’s body. Officer Carter, who was not injured, will be reassigned pending the outcome of the investigation. Harrison says it’s unclear why the subject fired at the officer as the traffic stop seemed to be routine…

Cut 11 (10) “right now”

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ULM announces that McNeese State’s Matt Viator will be the next Warhawk head football coach. Viator has lead the Cowboys to winning seasons in all ten of his years as head coach at McNeese and is one of the most successful coaches in the NCAA’s FCS division. West Monroe Representative Frank Hoffman is the voice of the Warhawks. He says Viator is a great hire…:

cut 12 (10)  “and for ULM”

ULM will introduce Viator at a press conference on Tuesday morning.  As coach of the Cowboys, Viator won three conference championships and made four FCS playoff appearances. Hoffman commends the selection committee for making the hire as quickly as they did…:

cut 13 (07)  “Viator”

Viator takes over for Todd Berry who was fired last month. Unlike Berry, Viator has spent his entire career in Louisiana and is very familiar with the state as it relates to recuriting. Hoffman says the Warhawk Nation is looking forward to seeing if Viator is up to the challenge of turning things around at the program…:

cut 14 (06)  “about that” 

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The Baton Rouge Police Department says a Dairy Queen employee is under arrest for allegedly spitting on the hamburger of an officer. Corporal Don Copolla says a Lt. with BRPD ordered his burger and noticed a clear substance on top of the bun so he notified the manager who reviewed camera footage of the incident…:

cut 15 (11)  “from the cameras”

21-year-old Elijah Johnson faces many charges including mingling harmful substances and resisting an officer. Coppola says Johnson confessed to the crime….:

cut 16 (07)  “herpes”