District Attorney Billy Joe Harrington announced that a 10th Judicial District Court jury returned a guilty verdict in a three day murder trial on Tuesday. A L Simmons, 23 of Campti, was convicted of second degree murder. The trial conviction relates to a June 2020 robbery and shooting near Patricia Drive in Clarence.
Simmons robbed and shot the victim after receiving a ride from the victim to a convenience store in which he later demanded money and a ride to Campti. The victim was driving the vehicle and crashed upon being shot, in which Simmons fled the scene on foot. Simmons was apprehended in the early morning hours attempting to hide on a rooftop at a residence in Winn Parish. When arrested, he had over $1,000 of the victim’s money in his possession.
Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies took custody of Simmons upon apprehension and continued their investigation. Simmons has been previously convicted of aggravated battery. Judge Lala Sylvester presided over the trial and will set a forthcoming sentencing date. The case was prosecuted by Assistant District Attorney Jason Methvin and assisted by Assistant District Attorney Chris Guillet.
