Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill announced the arrest of three men as part of a joint online child exploitation operation conducted with multiple law enforcement agencies across Northwest Louisiana.

The operation, hosted by the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, targeted individuals using online and social media platforms to seek minors for sexual activity. According to authorities, the suspects were communicating with juveniles online when they were identified by law enforcement and later taken into custody.

Participating agencies included the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Ouachita Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office and the Shreveport Police Department.

Those arrested include:

• Edwin Roberts II, 35 of Hwy. 6 East in Natchitoches, charged with one count of indecent behavior with a juvenile (La. R.S. 14:81) and one count of computer-aided solicitation of a minor (La. R.S. 14:81.3).

• Garrett Godejohn, 24 of Hwy. 6 East in Natchitoches, charged with one count of possession of child sexual abuse material (La. R.S. 14:81.1) and one count of sexual abuse of an animal (La. R.S. 14:89.3).

• David Lee Clark, 35 of Peyton Street in Shreveport, charged with one count of indecent behavior with a juvenile (La. R.S. 14:81) and one count of computer-aided solicitation of a minor (La. R.S. 14:81.3).

The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested Roberts and Godejohn, who authorities said lived together. Both were booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center. Bond information was not immediately available.

The Shreveport Police Department arrested Clark, who was booked into the Shreveport City Jail. His bond was also unknown at the time of release.

Murrill said her office will continue conducting proactive operations with partners on the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force to identify and arrest individuals seeking to exploit minors. She thanked participating agencies for their cooperation and efforts.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright said the safety of children remains a top priority for his office and emphasized that deputies will continue to aggressively pursue those who attempt to exploit minors.

During the operation, NPSO deputies also conducted a traffic stop on Front Street in Natchitoches that resulted in the seizure of suspected ecstasy, marijuana and alcoholic beverages. Two adult males and one adult female were arrested on drug charges. Two children were in the vehicle at the time.

Additional charges are anticipated. The investigation remains ongoing.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.

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Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office deputies and firefighters from Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #9 responded to a reported grass fire on March 2 around 7 pm on Hwy. 480 near Grappes Bluff Road in the Fairview Alpha area.

Authorities said the fire has burned an estimated three to four acres. Units remain on scene working to contain the blaze.

A parish-wide burn ban is currently in effect. One person has been cited for violating the burn ban. Deputy J. Watson is on scene for the Sheriff’s Office.

The Sheriff’s Office, along with the Natchitoches Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness and parish fire districts, is urging residents to use extreme caution amid dry conditions and gusty winds.

Officials advise residents not to conduct outdoor burning and to avoid activities that may create sparks, including welding or operating equipment in dry grass. Residents are also reminded to properly discard cigarettes, never throw them from vehicles, secure trailer chains to prevent roadway sparks, keep vehicles off dry grass, and have water sources readily available when working outdoors.

Authorities warn that with dry vegetation and windy conditions, fires can ignite quickly and spread out of control within minutes. Residents are encouraged to take precautions to protect their property, neighbors and first responders.

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COUSHATTA — A former church minister was sentenced on Feb. 12 after pleading guilty to one count of indecent behavior with a juvenile.

The Red River Parish Journal reports that Michael Ross McGrath entered the guilty plea in district court following his 2024 arrest.

McGrath was arrested Feb. 26, 2024, by the Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office on seven counts of molestation of a juvenile.

The Honorable Luke Mitchell sentenced McGrath to seven years at hard labor with the Louisiana Department of Corrections. The sentence was suspended, and McGrath was placed on three years of supervised probation.

As part of his probation, McGrath must pay a $5,000 fine and court costs, complete 32 hours of court-approved community service, register as a sex offender, comply with all laws and pay a $50 monthly supervision fee.

McGrath previously served as a minister to children and students in Coushatta at First Baptist Church Coushatta and Open Door Fellowship. He later served as associate pastor of families and college students at First Baptist Church of Natchitoches.

Under the terms outlined in court, McGrath may be around his biological family and attend his children’s school activities, subject to approval from the appropriate school superintendent.

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Deputies with the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office and firefighters from Natchitoches Parish Fire District #7 responded to a reported grass fire on March 2 near Robeline.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, units were dispatched at 3:07 p.m. by NATCOM 911 to the 11500 block of La. Hwy 120.

Traffic was blocked for a short period while firefighters worked to extinguish the blaze. All lanes have since reopened.

Robeline Assistant Marshal T. Fatheree and Deputy Sgt. C. Crow responded to assist with traffic control.

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Village officials are reminding residents that a town-wide burn ban remains in effect for the Municipality of Robeline due to ongoing extreme heat and dangerously dry conditions.

According to the Village of Robeline, the burn ban was declared Feb. 26 by Mayor Gordon O’Con under the authority of Louisiana Revised Statute 29:727. The order was issued after local fire officials formally requested action, citing a significant lack of rainfall, dry vegetation and an increased risk of uncontrolled outdoor fires.

The proclamation prohibits all outdoor burning within the corporate limits of Robeline until further notice.

The ban includes the burning of yard waste such as leaves, branches and grass clippings, as well as construction debris, trash, open fire pits and campfires. Outdoor cooking is permitted only when conducted in contained, commercial-grade appliances such as charcoal or gas grills. Officials stress that grills must be attended at all times and placed away from dry vegetation.

The burn ban does not apply to prescribed burns conducted by certified professionals under the oversight of the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

Officials warn that violations of the burn ban may result in civil or criminal penalties under state law and applicable municipal ordinances.

The order will remain in effect until weather conditions improve and the proclamation is formally rescinded. Residents are urged to comply with the ban to help protect property, neighboring homes and first responders during the current dry spell.

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After years of planning, advocacy, and commitment to strengthening public safety, the City of Natchitoches is proud to announce a historic milestone: the groundbreaking of Fire Station #3 on Tuesday, March 3 at 10 am at 3600 University Parkway.

This long-awaited project marks a significant investment in the safety, growth, and future of our community. Fire Station #3 has been a vision years in the making and stands as a testament to the strong leadership and persistence of Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr., whose advocacy and dedication have helped bring this project to fruition.

“This is a historic moment for our city,” said Mayor Ronnie Williams Jr. “Fire Station #3 represents our continued commitment to protecting our residents, supporting our first responders, and ensuring that Natchitoches is prepared for the future.”

Fire Chief Wynn emphasized the impact the new station will have on the department and the community:

“This new station represents a major step forward for public safety in Natchitoches. By relocating to a more central area within the district, we’ll be able to reduce response times and better serve our residents.”

“Being closer to Northwestern State University and Interstate 49 allows us to respond more efficiently to high-traffic areas while continuing to provide strong protection for every neighborhood in our district.”

“This also provides a state-of-the-art facility that promotes a healthier and safer environment for our employees as well as protect the equipment that we invest in.”

The new station, located at 3600 University Parkway, will enhance emergency response capabilities and better serve residents, businesses, and visitors throughout the area. As the city continues to grow, this additional facility will play a critical role in maintaining efficient response times and expanding fire protection services.

City officials, state and local partners, fire department leadership, and community members are invited to attend the groundbreaking ceremony and celebrate this important achievement. The City of Natchitoches looks forward to commemorating this historic occasion with the community and recognizing the many individuals and partners who helped make Fire Station #3 a reality. For more information, please contact the City of Natchitoches at (318) 352-2772.

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Saint Mary’s Catholic School (SMS) is seeking a dynamic and dedicated Varsity Boys Basketball Coach ready to elevate our basketball program to new heights.

Preferred Qualifications:

● Prior head coaching experience

● Certified teacher

● CDL (Commercial Driver’s License)

Teaching duties may be available and can be discussed.

📩 Apply Today:

Please send your resume to:

Principal Stephen Wren

📧 swren@smstigers.org

📞 318-352-8394

Saint Mary’s Catholic School does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national or ethnic origin in:

(i) the admission of students;

(ii) the offering of rights, privileges, programs, or activities generally made available to students; or

(iii) the administration of educational policies, admissions policies, loan programs, athletic programs, employment practices or policies, or other school-administered programs.

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By BRAD WELBORN, Northwestern State Sports Information

The beginning of March means a little bit more to the Northwestern State football team than just the final days before spring practice begins.

Around this time every year, players trade their footballs, weights and workout gear for kickballs, basketballs, dodgeballs and a whole lot of smiles, hugs and high-fives on Chris Waddell Day.

On the 22^nd annual day Monday morning, Northwestern football players fanned out across Natchitoches, visiting NSU Elementary Lab School, St. Mary’s, L.P. Vaughn Elementary, M.R. Weaver Elementary while some teammates welcomed children from the Child Development Center to Turpin Stadium.

The day of service and fun has become a fabric of the program and a chance to honor Waddell, a redshirt freshman offensive lineman  whose life was cut short March 1, 2004, by complications from Kawasaki Syndrome, and to live out what he stood for.

For some of the Demons, this year carried a little extra weight, and brought them back to their roots.

Jake Peveto and Ben Bienvenu weren’t just visitng schools, they were going back to where it all started.

“I remember everything, all the football guys coming here hyping us up like we did today,” Peveto said who spent his early years at NSU E-Lab while his father Bradley Dale Peveto was the Demons’ head football coach. “It’s definitely a full circle moment. I remember being in the gym and being ecstatic when the football players came through, so it’s definitely cool to be on the other side of that.”

Time, as everyone knows, has a way of speeding up. And also never know where life can and will take you along the journey.

“They were shooting me out on the hoops a little, but it was definitely fun to relive my childhood,” Peveto said with a laugh. “I was telling one of my teammates how time has really flown by. It was cool to see those kids and how much joy they had when we came through and just love on them a bit. That’s what it’s all about. It was a really special day.”

Bienvenu experienced the same kind of déjà vu walking the halls of his alma mater at St. Mary’s.

“It’s crazy coming back,” Bienvenu said. “Everybody smiling and wanting a hug in the front office and I got a chance to play with the kids that I was Pre-K buddies with my senior year, it was definitely a full circle moment. Seeing everyone so happy to have me back, it really is a family here.”

As a kid, Bienvenu remembers think the players were “10 feet tall and Superman.” Now he understands something even bigger.

“Coach McCorkle talks about raising young men and things being bigger than just football,” Bienvenu said. “Being in the community, bettering the community and being an example for the younger kids like we had a chance to do today. Kids look up to us and being that example is really what it’s all about.”

The idea of being part of something bigger than yourself or the game you play is the core of Chris Waddell Day.

Established in the wake of his passing, the annual day of service every March 1 – or a date close to it depending on when it falls on the calendar – Demon players step away from the field and into the gyms and classrooms across the city. They share Waddell’s story, talk about kindness and perseverance, and do what they all do best: play.

“It’s been an inspiration,” receiver Dane Wallace said. “Coming out here playing kickball with the kids was so fun, just like every year. Chris Waddell stood for something bigger than football and it was spending time with kids in the community. I think as players we can enjoy this more than the kids sometimes because it’s challenging and competitive like we are. It’s nice to come out, give them a good time and have some fun.”

Like Wallace and his fellow senior teammate Danny Sears who have been a part of multiple Waddell Days, this one hit a little different knowing it was the last time he would be able to experience it as a player.

 “At first you may take it for granted but as each one comes and this time being my last one it was really special,” Sears said. “I get to have fun with my friends and teammates, getting out with the kids and seeing the big smiles on their faces it makes your day.”

And for offensive lineman Isaiah Ybarra, who was clearly in his element interacting with the kids between rounds of various basketball shooting games, the day felt especially personal.

“I’ve always enjoyed working with elementary school kids and something that I want to pursue as a career,” the senior offensive guard said. “So being here with them and seeing how much joy it brings them just having us here and them seeing us, their faces just light up. It’s a kind of joy that you don’t see very often from anybody.

“Any opportunity we have to pour into the community we try and take it. And we’re going to keep on doing it.”

Years from now, some of the children who ran around the gym, dodged balls, shot hoops and shared smiles may find themselves wearing purple and white. They’ll remember the day the football players came to their school. 

They’ll remember how tall they seemed.

And if history is any indication, they’ll be back one day, on the other side of it, passing that same joy along and carrying on the legacy of Chris Waddell.

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CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – For the second straight match, the Northwestern State tennis team found itself in a battle that came down to the final court Monday.

This time, it came against a team that shared last year’s Southland Conference co-championship with the Lady Demons.

Team captain Sofi Garcia made it a happy trip home for NSU when she prevailed in a third-set tiebreaker 7–3 to secure the No. 5 singles match 7–5, 2–6, 7–6 and seal the 4–3 team victory for the visitors.

Northwestern (6-4 overall, 2-0 in the SLC) edged Texas A&M–Corpus Christi (11-2, 1-1) earning a second consecutive 4–3 Southland Conference road victory on the heels of one Saturday at UT-Rio Grande Valley.

“This was a very good weekend for many reasons,” head coach Marcos Morelli said. “We talk about being tough every day, and our entire team showed toughness and resilience against two very well-coached and strong teams who competed extremely hard.”

The match opened with doubles, where NSU struck first. In the No. 2 slot, Lija Mumlek and Maria Farina secured a 6–3 win and the decisive No. 3 match went to Lady Demons Martina Acebedo Bonocore and Athina Grigoriadou 7–5.

“Winning doubles was very big today,” Morelli said. “Not only because of the final score, but because it created good momentum heading into singles. Our entire lineup showed courage in both doubles and singles.”

In singles, the Islanders rallied to square the match score at 3-3 with the overall outcome on the line at No. 5, and Garcia came through.

“We knew it would be a battle,” Morelli said. “Every player from Corpus fights hard and is well coached. In the end, we executed well under pressure and played the big points well. So did Corpus. It was just a great match.

BASEBALL HOSTS GRAMBLING:  There could be balance at the end of Northwestern’s second four-game homestand of the season.

Should the Demons cap the stretch with a win in tonight’s 6 o’clock matchup at Brown-Stroud Field with Grambling, which will air on ESPN+, it would give Northwestern a split of its four straight at home and send the Demons into a road weekend series at UIW with consecutive victories.

Adding to the in-state rivalry theme, Northwestern (6-6) and Grambling (3-8) squared off in a pair of fall exhibition games in Natchitoches that the Demons dominated.

“You’re at a very different point of building and developing your team when you look at playing a game in November versus playing a game right here at the beginning of March,” third-year head coach Chris Bertrand. “I think that’s the case for everybody. It’s not unique to the Demons and to Grambling. What you take from the fall game is you get a chance to look at personnel, and you get a chance to look at style of play, and you get a pretty good idea of how to prepare for the matchup, but I think you’re definitely preparing now for a very different type of baseball team than what you prepared for in the fall.”

The Demons themselves are a different team than they were in that exhibition matchup in the fall. Injuries have kept Northwestern from utilizing its projected starting lineup through the first 12 games of the season.

That has allowed different players to step forward when given opportunities.

The latest was redshirt sophomore Colton Harrison, whose pinch-hit, two-run home run lifted Northwestern to a 5-4 victory against Southeastern Louisiana in Sunday’s series finale.

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While its seed line at the upcoming Southland Conference Tournament is locked into place, the Northwestern State women’s basketball team still has still plenty to play for in the regular season finale tonight at 6:30 on Mike McConathy Court at Prather Coliseum.

The Lady Demons (16-13 overall, 13-8 SLC) bring a two-game win streak into hosting New Orleans (3-26, 3-18). NSU is locked into the No. 5 seed in the SLC Tournament, but has plenty to chase.

The 13 conference wins are the most since 2016-17. With a victory, it will be the most conference wins since also posting 14 during the 2003-04 SLC championship season.

“We are looking forward to playing in Prather one final time this season in front of our home crowd,” head coach Anna Nimz said. “Our main focus is correcting our mistakes from the first time we played UNO and growing off our last two games against Corpus and UT-Rio Grande Valley.

“We need to lock in, play hard and inch closer and closer to 40 minutes of good game play. We have the opportunity to fight for one final regular season conference win, against a very gritty UNO team, and put together our most conference wins over the last 23 years.“

Coming off a game in which the Demons made 13 3-pointers against Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, they now play UNO, the opponent in which they also drained 13 deep shots against in the first meeting.

Vernell Atamah made five of the 3-pointers in the win Saturday at AMCC, and her triple total is at 85 this season, just three shy of the program’s record for single season 3-pointers of 88, set by Beatrice Attura in 2016-17.

Nya Valentine also buried five triples in the win at AMCC, giving her 67 on the season, and she has gone 10-for-21 from deep in the last two games.

Atamah and Valentine have combined for 152 of the 217 made 3-pointers by the Demons this season, as the team is on the verge of breaking the program’s single season 3-point record of 223, set last season.

The Demons used the deep ball to jump out to a 20-2 advantage in the first meeting in New Orleans, making six 3-pointers in the first 5:04 en route to a dominant 78-61 road victory.

In addition to the graduate student Valentine, Carla Celaya, Tiara Abron and Dasia Turner will play the final home game of their careers.

Next up is a trip to the SLC Tournament in Lake Charles, which begins for the Demons on Monday, March 9 against the No. 8 seed, either East Texas A&M or Nicholls, at 11 a.m.

DEMONS BOW, BUT MOVE FORWARD:  A furious second-half push wasn’t enough for the Northwestern men’s basketball team as UT-Rio Grande Valley used a pair of decisive runs to pull away late and hand the Demons a 74-62 loss Monday night inside the UTRGV Fieldhouse.

The Demons earlier clinched the No. 7 seed in the Southland Conference Tournament and will face sixth-seeded Nicholls on Sunday at 7:30 p.m. at McNeese’s Townsley Law Arena in Lake Charles.

“It’s a new season,” head coach Rick Cabrera said. “We’re capable of beating anybody on a neutral court. I have to get their minds back and not allow this game to affect the rest of our season.”

After trimming the deficit Monday night to three midway through the second half, NSU saw the Vaqueros respond with a 12-2 surge that reestablished control and ultimately sealed the regular-season finale.

“Credit to UTRGV for being tougher, being more physical,” Cabrera said. “They set a statement from the minute that the game started. I want to give them more praise than anything, but we weren’t very tough, which is very disappointing. Didn’t do tough things to win games, didn’t get 50-50 balls. Even though we outrebounded them, we didn’t get the important rebounds.”

The Demons (10-21, 8-14) were carried by Willie Williams, who recorded his seventh double-double of the season with 18 points and 10 rebounds.

“At times it felt like Willie was just out there by himself,” Cabrera said. “He was a monster. He wasn’t perfect, but nobody’s perfect in a game. Willie was a lifesaver. He kept us in the game. If he didn’t get the tough rebounds, I don’t know who was getting them. But we need somebody else to step up and help him.”

Winning its ninth straight and locking up the third seed in the SLC Tournament, UTRGV (18-13, 14-8) closed the game on a 9-2 stretch and shot efficiently down the stretch, capitalizing on second-chance opportunities and timely perimeter shooting to stretch the margin to double digits in the three minutes.

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In 1965, Washoe was born in West Africa.  Ten months later, she and four other youngsters, Dar, Pili, Tatu, and Moja, were brought to the United States to be raised by foster parents Allen and Beatrix Gardner.  Allen and Beatrix played with them, talked to them, fed them, chased them, ran from them, gave them a comfortable and intellectually stimulating home, and all the other things most parents do to bond with and raise their children.  Washoe and the others acted very much like children of their age with one exception, they could not speak.  Fostering Washoe and the others was difficult because they were unable to communicate vocally, but Allen and Beatrix both worked as scientists at the University of Nevado in Reno and understood that getting the desired result usually took a long time to achieve.  One of the most important tools in their arsenal as scientists was patience.  Most doctors concluded that they would never be able to communicate because they all lacked a specific gene, the FOXP2 gene, which is essential for the normal development of speech.  They would never be able to speak.  They accepted the prognosis that the youngsters would never be able to communicate verbally, but Allen and Beatrix were determined that they would be able to communicate.

Rather than trying to get Washoe and the others to speak verbally, the Gardners stopped using verbal communication around them altogether.  When in their presence, Allen and Beatrix communicated with each other using American Sign Language (ASL).  The Gardners feared that trying to communicate with them verbally and with sign language simultaneously would be confusing.  The Gardners hoped the youngsters would learn by watching them communicate with each other.  Washoe was especially interested.  They used the proper sign language to each other when Washoe was eating, bathing, and while she was being dressed.  They invented exciting games; introduced new toys, books, and magazines; all of which were designed to stimulate sign language.  They made scrapbooks of Washoe’s favorite pictures and used the proper sign language for whatever was shown in the photos.  Dinner time began with Allen and Beatrix shaping their dominant hands into a flattened “O” with the fingertips touching the thumb then tapping the fingertips to their lips once or twice.  In American Sign Language, this is the sign for “food” or “to eat.”  Then one day at dinner time, long after doctors and other experts had given up hope that she would ever be able to communicate, Washoe told Allen and Beatrix that she was hungry by signing the word “food.”  The Gardners were overjoyed.  Within a short time, Washoe could tell the Gardners that she was thirsty and that she wanted to play with her toys by using sign language.  She quickly learned the sign for “more” to let the Gardners know she was still hungry, still thirsty, or that she wanted more toys.  Her vocabulary continued to grow.  Then she began to learn to answer questions such as “Who is that?” and “What do you want?” 

As her vocabulary grew, the Gardners noticed something extraordinary.  Washoe began teaching the other youngsters the sign language she knew, and they were signing back correctly.  With the help of the Gardners, Washoe and the others learned a sign language vocabulary of hundreds of words and expressions.  Washoe became the first of her kind to learn a human language and teach it to another primate.  Washoe and the others were all chimpanzees.

Sources:

1.      “Friends of Washoe,” accessed February 22, 2026, https://www.friendsofwashoe.org/learn/chci_history/project_washoe_begins.html.

2.     “Meet Tatu and Loulis—the last of the ‘talking’ chimpanzees,” National Geographic, accessed February 22, 2026, https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/chimpanzee-sign-language-experiments.

3.     “FOXP2 gene,” MedlinePlus.com, accessed February 22, 2026, https://medlineplus.gov/genetics/gene/foxp2/.

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Meet Gypsee, an adorable 4-year-old American Pit Bull with a sweet nature and a playful streak. She walks well on a leash and enjoys getting out to explore, though she may get a case of the zoomies when she’s feeling extra happy. 

She plays well with most dogs and is always ready to join in on the fun. Whether it’s a stroll around the neighborhood, some playtime in the yard, or relaxing on the couch at the end of the day, Gypsee is happiest when she’s with her people.

Gypsee is affectionate without being overbearing and enjoys a good cuddle once she’s had a chance to burn off some energy. She would do best in a home that can give her regular exercise, attention, and lots of love. In return, she’ll be a loyal, devoted companion who’s always happy to see you.

If you’re looking for a friendly, loving dog with a fun personality and a big heart, Gypsee might be the perfect fit.

If you are interested in fostering or  adopting Gypsee, please reach out to FAUNA (Friends All United For Natchitoches Animals) at npfaua@gmail.com or NPFauna.org

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Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a fatal crash on Feb. 28 around 5:27 pm at the intersection of Louisiana Highway 120 and Louisiana Highway 175. This crash claimed the life of Kathy Birdwell, 66 of Natchitoches.

The initial investigation revealed that a 2000 Chevrolet Van was traveling west on Louisiana Highway 120.  For reasons still under investigation, the driver failed to stop at the intersection, which caused the vehicle to leave the roadway and impact the ditch embankment. 

The driver and two passengers, who were restrained, sustained moderate injuries and were transferred to a local medical facility for treatment. Birdwell, who also was restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on-scene. Routine toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.

While the cause of this crash remains under investigation, distracted and inattentive driving continues to be a leading cause of crashes in our state.  Louisiana State Police urges all motorists to stay alert while driving.  A lapse in one’s awareness can have deadly consequences.

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A Houston, Texas man was arrested following a two-parish vehicle pursuit that ended near Natchitoches, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright. The Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office contacted the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office on Feb. 26 around 11:16 pm requesting assistance with a vehicle pursuit entering Natchitoches Parish eastbound on La. Hwy 6 West.

Sabine Parish deputies were reportedly pursuing a white 2015 Kia SUV.

Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Deputies, along with the Natchitoches Police Department, deployed units along the La. Hwy 6 corridor in response.

As the vehicle continued eastbound through the communities of Robeline and Hagewood at an excessive speed, refusing to stop, NPSO deputies deployed tire deflation devices, near the Natchitoches City Limits successfully disabling the vehicle.

The driver exited the vehicle and fled on foot toward businesses along La. Hwy 504, where he was apprehended without incident by Natchitoches Police officers.

Roland V. Rayment III, 20, of Houston, Texas was transported and booked into the Natchitoches Parish Detention Center on charges of:

Aggravated Flight from an Officer

Resisting an Officer

Additional charges are pending in Sabine Parish as the investigation continues.

There were no injuries.

Sheriff Wright stated, “I want to commend our deputies and the Natchitoches Police Department for their quick response and coordinated efforts in bringing this pursuit to a safe conclusion. Their actions helped protect motorists and residents along the highway corridor. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to ensure those who endanger the public are held accountable.”

Deputy J. Severance and Lt. B. Remo were involved in the pursuit apprehension assisted by Natchitoches Police.

A local wrecker service impounded the vehicle. Mugshot currently unavailable.

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The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office advised motorists on Feb. 28 that the Union Pacific railroad crossing arms and warning signal lighting equipment are malfunctioning on Hwy. 120 just west of Hwy. 1 and east of I-49 at Cypress.

Due to the malfunctioning crossing signals, deputies are urging all motorists to use extreme caution when approaching the railroad tracks.

Drivers should:
• Come to a complete stop at the crossing
• Look left, look right, and look left again before proceeding
• Ensure no train is approaching before crossing

Union Pacific Railroad has been notified of the issue. Please drive safely, avoid distractions, and always be alert for trains at railroad crossings.

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Village of Natchez Mayor Patsy Ward Hoover announced on Feb. 27 that progress is underway at the site of the former JJ Lounge and Rite Way building, which burned several months ago.

She reported that demolition of the building is in progress, gas tanks have been removed, and preparations are underway for new development at the location. The village encouraged residents to stay tuned for updates as the project continues.

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A grass fire reported on March 1 south of Natchitoches burned approximately two to three acres before being brought under control, according to the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office.

At approximately 1:56 p.m., sheriff’s deputies and firefighters with Natchitoches Parish Fire Protection District #5 were dispatched by NATCOM 911 to the 2500 block of Fish Hatchery Road following reports of a grass fire.

Authorities said the fire began when an individual was conducting outdoor burning and the flames spread out of control. The person responsible was cited for violating the parish-wide burn ban.

No injuries were reported.

Officials reminded residents that a burn ban remains in effect for Natchitoches Parish due to dry conditions that allow fires to ignite and spread rapidly.

The Sheriff’s Office, along with the Natchitoches Parish Office of Emergency Preparedness and local fire districts, urged residents to follow fire safety precautions, including avoiding outdoor burning, preventing sparks from equipment or vehicles, properly disposing of cigarettes, and keeping water sources readily available when working outdoors.

Deputy Cpl. N. Kerby responded on behalf of the Sheriff’s Office.

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Northwestern State University hosted about 100 11^th and 12^th grade students from Lakeview High School and Natchitoches Central High School for the university’s sixth Healthcare Academic & Career Exploration (ACE) event Feb. 27.  

Students in small groups learned about careers in radiologic technology, nursing, addiction counseling, pharmacy tech, social work, mental health, advanced paramedics and emergency medicine. 

“So far, this year, we’ve helped over 400 high school students learn more about high-demand jobs in central Louisiana’s healthcare industry,” said Steve Gruesbeck, ACE executive director.  “Earlier Healthhcare ACE events in the Fall and Spring were tailored for students from Avoyelles, Vernon, Catahoula, Allen, Rapides, Winn and Grant parishes.”

Students participated in interactive workshops led by faculty from NSU, Central Louisiana Technical and Community College and Pafford EMS Training program. 

“Students learned more about what it would be like to work in high demand healthcare careers,” Gruesbeck said. “They learned about a variety of jobs, training for which can occur during high school or immediately afterwards via abbreviated certificate programs, associate degree programs and bachelor degree programs.”   

The project is funded by a Future of HealthC.A.R.E. Program Grant from The Rapides Foundation, which seeks to increase the number of qualified central Louisiana students enrolling in healthcare training programs or entering the healthcare workforce.  

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The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office is warning residents about a scam involving text messages claiming recipients must pay an outstanding traffic citation within 12 hours or face immediate action from the “Department of Motor Vehicles.”

Authorities said the office has received multiple calls from parish residents regarding the messages. In some cases, scammers may also attempt contact through phone calls or voicemail.

Officials stressed that the messages are fraudulent and designed to create panic in order to pressure individuals into sending money or providing personal information.

If a resident has an unpaid traffic citation, notification will come by official letter through the U.S. Mail from the Natchitoches Parish District Attorney’s Office, Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office or Natchitoches City Court — not by text message demanding immediate payment.

Authorities urge residents not to respond to suspicious messages, click on links or provide personal information such as Social Security numbers, driver’s license numbers, or banking details via text. Messages that create urgency or threaten immediate legal action are common tactics used by scammers.

Residents are encouraged to delete the message and report the scam to local authorities. Officials also ask the public to share the warning with family and friends, particularly elderly residents who are often targeted.

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Northwestern State University hosted approximately 400 high school students from throughout Louisiana and surrounding states and their families for N-Side View on Feb. 28 for a day of fun and learning about the many opportunities available at NSU. The visitors had a busy day attending presentations on financial aid, tours, and a browsing session in which the visiting students and their families met with representatives from the university’s academic departments and student organizations. The visitors and their families were also invited to cheer on the Demons at the men’s and women’s softball and baseball games

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Northwestern State’s baseball team salvaged the final game of the first of 10 Southland Conference three-game series with a pinch-hit home run Sunday, while the Lady Demons softball team completed a 4-1 weekend in its own City of Lights Classic and the Lady Demons tennis team began defense of the SLC championship with 4-3 win on the road Saturday.

BASEBALL:  With one swing Sunday, Colton Harrison turned around both his and his team’s fortunes.

Harrison’s pinch-hit, tiebreaking two-run home run in the eighth inning Sunday afternoon lifted the Demons to a 5-4 victory against Southeastern Louisiana at Brown-Stroud Field. It followed two wins by the Lions, 7-5 on Friday night and 5-1 Saturday, with SLU posting quick 4-0 leads in both games.

Sunday, SLU took an early 1-0 edge but didn’t broaden it. Tied 3-3 in the bottom of the eighth, Northwestern coach Chris Bertrand used two pinch-hitters to create a winning spark.

“We knew (SLU reliever Logan Freche) threw cutters and sliders,” Harrison said. “I saw Bryce (Johnson) hit the ball hard, and as soon as he got on base, I was just looking for a pitch I could drive and get the job done. I’ve been struggling, but having a coach who believes in me every day when I show up to practice and doing the work gives me faith in the process.”

Harrison’s first home run since Feb. 15, which followed a pinch-hit single by Johnson, snapped a 3-all tie and put the Demons (6-6, 1-2) in position to snap a four-game losing streak.

It also snapped the longest home run drought of the season for Northwestern, which had not connected on a homer since Thomas Marsala III’s game-tying shot at Central Arkansas in Game 2 of a Feb. 21 doubleheader.

Harrison’s blast made a winner of sophomore left-hander Jacob LeBlanc (2-1), who along with Wesley Marien and Lucas Harrington continued the strong work of the Demon bullpen across the series. They followed 5 1-3 stellar innings from starter Trent Hillen, who allowed two hits and one earned run while striking out seven to put the Demons in position to break back into the win column.

With a little help from a web gem from second baseman Hudson Brignac, LeBlanc kept the Demons’ seventh-inning deficit at 3-2, which allowed Brignac to score on Thomas Marsala III’s RBI single to re-tie the game in the bottom of the seventh.

After Southeastern (4-7, 2-1) put the tying run on base with back-to-back singles to start the ninth, LeBlanc and Harrington combined to record the final three outs with Harrington striking out Brooks Wright to strand the tying run at third base.

The quartet of Demon pitchers combined for 11 strikeouts, marking Northwestern’s second double-figure strikeout game of the weekend and eighth of the season.

The Demons return to action Tuesday night when they host Grambling to cap a four-game homestand. First pitch is set for 6 p.m. at Brown-Stroud Field.

SOFTBALL:  For the third straight game in the City of Lights Classic, Northwestern struck first. This time, it struck deep.

A three-run homer from Makynlie Jones in the opening frame set the tone and a solo shot in the third from JT Smith helped carry the Demons (9-13) to a 7-2 win against Arkansas-Pine Bluff (2-11) in the tournament finale Sunday.

The power surge was plenty of support for the pitching combination of Brooklynn Stohler and Mattison Buster who threw seven strong innings allowing just two runs on two hits with nine combined strikeouts.

“Each time we win it gives us more confidence that we can win,” head coach Jenny Fuller said. “After last year, it was a lot of just hoping that we could win. This year it feels like we know that we can win. To have somebody like Buster come in and shut things down like she did today, we didn’t have that luxury last year. We’re finding all the right pieces that fit together and learning as we go.” 

Friday, Buster notched a no-hitter in a five-inning 14-0 romp over UAPB, striking out five. Northwestern beat UAPB 13-0 Saturday and split with Missouri State, losing 6-1 Friday but rebounding for a noteworthy 5-3 victory Saturday.

NSU’s keen eye for the strike zone this weekend, drawing 28 walks across five games, helped fuel the win over Missouri State – although the Demons were no-hit. But five walks, a hit batter and an error in the first inning allowed Northwestern to take a 5-0 lead without a hit, enough to weather a rally by the Bears, who had beaten 25^th-ranked Ole Miss last weekend.

TENNIS:  The Lady Demons pulled out a 4-3 win Saturday at UT-Rio Grande Valley to open defense of their 2025 Southland Conference co-championship when Maria Farina recovered from a 7-5 loss in the first set to sweep the next two sets, 6-4, 6-0, to provide the decisive point.

Northwestern plays today at 10 a.m. at Texas A&M-Corpus Christi, another of last year’s co-champions along with Stephen F. Austin.

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