The Watchman 03-04-2026

Leila Pitchford AROUND THE FELICIANAS

Local markets

variety

The Clinton Community Market is from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 8 and every first Saturday in downtown Clinton. Vendors, local shop, restaurants and the Cruisin’ to Clinton car show will be available.

The St. Francisville Farmer’s Market is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Thursday at 9961 Wilcox St., St. Francisville.

Walk in the Park on March 7

Walk in the Park will be from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. March 7 at Parker Park, St. Francisville. Arts and crafts will be for sale from vendors. Live music will be by Ben Bell and the Stardust Boys from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m in the Gazebo.

Meet the marshals

The Jackson Lions Club is hosting Meet Your Jackson Deputy Marshals at 6 p.m. March 10 at the Jackson Civic Center, 2084 Charter St. Marshal Mitch Harrell will discuss accomplishments over the past two years and goals for the next two years.

Det. Sgt. Chance Davis will provide guidance on what to expect if you are pulled over and what your rights are For information, call (225) 634-5900 or email jmo@jacksonla.gov

Breast scans available

Woman’s Hospital mobile mammography coach makes 3D scanning more accessible. A physician’s order is required, and appointments are strongly encouraged.

The coach will be at Curry Pharmacy, 6216 La. 10, Greensburg, Call (225) 222-6111 to schedule.

It will be at United Methodist Church, 4205 Church St., Zachary, on March 11. Call (225) 924-8268 to schedule.

Need a bed? Help the band

The West Feliciana High School Band is hosting its third annual Mattress & Adjustable Bed Sale from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 8 at the high school gym.

Inmate art for sale

An arts and crafts show will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 21 at Dixon Correctional Institute, 5568 La. 68, Jackson

Inmate-made items will include paintings, woodworking, furniture, jewelry, leatherwork and more. A pet adoption event will be going on as well. Entry is $5, ages 6 and under are free. All transactions are cash.

Easter Egg hunt slated

The Rosedown Easter Egg Hunt starts at 2 p.m., March 28. Bring a basket for the hunt Refreshments are provided, and 19th century games will follow the hunt. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in. Garden admission fees apply

‘Talent’ is coming

The “East Feliciana’s Got Talent” showcase and festival fundraiser for the East Feliciana COA is evolving. The March 28 event will include a festival outside with vendors selling arts, crafts and such from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. along

ä See AROUND, page 2G

DREAMS REALIZED Camellias in the countryside

BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL Contributing writer

Jan Pourciau fulfilled a dream to live in the country in 2015 when she and her husband, Nolen, moved to Edgewood, the 1890 farmhouse in West Feliciana Parish built by Nolen Pourciau’s great-grandparents.

Jan Pourciau shared some of the couple’s dream-come-true story and the ongoing restoration at the farmhouse and garden during the Feb. 11 meeting of Jackson’s Wednesday Club at the home of Julie Wicker Pourciau especially focused on the numerous and well-established camellias on the farmhouse’s landscape.

A Louisiana native and Master Gardener who had a 40-year career in Baton Rouge before the move north to the countryside, Pourciau is a member and former president of the Feliciana Country Gar-

deners as well as participates in a number of other gardening, civic, patriotic and service organizations in the region.

The Pourciau’s cherished camellias were featured in her presentation with visuals of distant scenes and closeup photos. She and her husband “work diligently to restore and preserve the treasured garden collection,” she said at the meeting. There are over 150 camellias, representing 60 identified varieties, many of which are historical varieties dating before 1900. She also brought along and referenced three books offering them as great resources.

Pourciau said she has learned much but wants to learn to do grafts. She said her father-in-law, who didn’t believe in pruning, did some grafting.

She said some visitors to their 1.3 acres

ä See CAMELLIAS, page 2G

East Feliciana High School mascot, 2 others indicted on rape charges

BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer

An East Feliciana Parish grand jury Tuesday indicted three men on one count each of first-degree rape in two cases involving victims under the age of 13, 20th Judicial District Attorney Sam D’Aquilla said. The grand jurors returned indictments against Rinaldo B. Robinson 43, of Clinton, and Desmond Wilson, 45, of Jackson, after hearing from officers who investigated complaints that the men had improper sexual contact with children at different times and locations, the district attorney said.

Robinson, known as “Rah Rah,” has been a popular figure in Clinton for his portrayal of Clinton High School’s Tiger mascot and for the colorful costumes he wore at various community events, such as parades He was arrested Feb. 5 after an investigation by the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office. While investigating a Dec. 28 complaint against Robinson, detectives also received a complaint that Wilson had molested one of the same two children in Jackson, D’Aquilla said Wilson has been jailed since Sept. 8 as a result of a conviction in another case that arose later, the district attorney

said. Although the reported misconduct involved two children in Robinson’s case, prosecutors elected to seek only one first-degree rape indictment. In a separate case, the grand jury indicted Michael Harrell, 41, of Clinton, after the Sheriff’s Office received information from authorities in Mississippi about reported sexual misconduct involving an East Feliciana child. The resulting investigation led to Harrell’s indictment on a firstdegree rape count, D’Aquilla said. The three men remained in the East Feliciana Parish Jail on Wednesday

Basketball season winding down for Feliciana teams

BY RICHARD MEEK

Contributing writer

Here’s the latest in Feliciana basketball results.

East Feliciana

East Feliciana defeated Logansport 55-53 in a regional playoff game on Feb. 24, advancing to a semifinal matchup against Midland that was scheduled for March 2.

The Tigers, 21-10, defeated Jeanerette 53-43 in a regional matchup Feb. 20.

Kariah Dunn is averaging 13.2 points a game for the Tigers.

West Feliciana

The Saints closed out a 20-pluswin season with a 70-28 home loss to Sterlington in the state quarterfinals.

Ariannah Smith and Laterriona Johnson each scored eight points for West Feliciana, which finished 23-7.

The Saints had earned the quarterfinal berth with a 59-57 victory over Iota on Feb. 24. West Feliciana rallied from a 19-15 first quarter deficit by outscoring Iota 20-13 in the second to take a 35-32 halftime lead.

The Saints expanded the lead to 48-42 at the end of three quarters and were able to hold off the Bulldogs. Smith scored 19 points and Johnson 14 in the victory West Feliciana was also aided by a breakout performance from Maddy Collins, who scored 15 points. Collins had entered the contest averaging five points game. The Saints appeared to be wellpositioned for the future as the current roster features two sophomores and three freshmen.

Landry wants to change Angola’s federal court after immigration rulings

BY MARK BALLARD Staff writer

WASHINGTON Gov Jeff Landry is seeking to move West Feliciana Parish — where the state penitentiary at Angola is located — into a different federal judicial district after criticizing “liberal judges” in the Baton Rouge area for letting immigration detainees out of the “Louisiana Lockup” there.

Landry

In a letter to Louisiana members of Congress on Thursday, Landry asked to move the parish from the U.S. Middle District of Louisiana to the Western District. In the letter, he cited an increase in cases, much of it driven by prisoners at Angola.

“The Middle District has seen a 35.2% increase in total filings since 2020 and currently has 25% more new filings per judge than the Western District,” Landry wrote. “Moving West Feliciana Parish into the Western District will improve judicial efficiency and better address public safety needs in East Baton Rouge Parish and the State of Louisiana.” Congressional action is necessary to effect the Landry proposes. But Landry showed another reason for the request Thursday when he blasted a federal judge in the Middle District over an immigration case.

“ALERT! The Liberal Judges of the Middle District of Louisiana are at it again,” Landry wrote Thursday afternoon on X. “Judge

ä See LANDRY, page 2G

CAMELLIAS

Continued from page 1G

were amazed at the size of the camellias trees. Her knowledge of the pests and diseases of camellias has increased, she said, but she was advised by an expert Trent James, to relax She said she came to realize that camellias are hardy and that she had the proof in the garden.

Her talk included brief information about participating in shows. Anyone can go or enter, she said, and there is no cost She approaches it as a hobby, she added, and does not consider herself competitive She explained how the blooms were transported and displayed and said she has enjoyed the experience.

Pourciau said she is still adding to the garden at Edgewood and restoration continues on their home.

LANDRY

Continued from page 1G

Shelly Dick has ordered the release of a convicted RAPIST from the Louisiana Lockup, allowing him to roam free.” Landry continued: “News flash: in Louisiana, we protect victims and punish criminals NOT the other way around. Those who are in the Country illegally and commit crimes like this should be locked away until deportation! Shame on you Judge Dick!” U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, the Baton Rouge Republican whose district includes West Feliciana Parish, reposted Landry’s criticism of Dick, and said she would be sponsoring a bill to move the parish’s jurisdiction.

“I stand with Governor Landry and [President Donald Trump] in supporting conservative judges,” Letlow wrote. Earlier this month, both Landry

AROUND

Continued from page 1G

with Cajun music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and raffle drawings throughout the day From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. inside, the talent contest with refreshments will benefit the Council on Aging. Admission will be a $20 donation. MORE AUDITIONS: Another day of auditions for the show has been set for March 21 from 9 a.m. until noon. Singers, dancers, musicians and other performers from East Feliciana residents are encouraged to audition to participate in the talent contest The

and Letlow publicly criticized Middle District Judge John deGravelles after Fox News reported that the judge had ordered four Louisiana Lockup detainees to be released from custody. Rep. Cleo Fields, Baton Rouge Democrat in whose district the federal courthouse is located, said Friday: “I have not seen evidence that the current district boundaries are failing the people they serve. The Middle District was established for good reason, and an established appeals process already exists for litigants who believe a court has erred. I remain committed to protecting the independence and integrity of our federal judiciary.”

The case Landry criticized Landry was referring to a court order Dick signed Monday ordering the release of Roberto La Coss from Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention.

“Court finds that Petitioner is substantially likely to succeed on

winner to be chosen by the audience at the March 28 event.

The location for the auditions is at the Jackson site for the COA, 3699 La. 10, Jackson.

Tunica Music Festival scheduled

The 10th annual Tunica Music Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. March 28 in Parker Park, in the amphitheater across the street on Chris and Cherie Fry’s property, and in Bayou Sara Brewing in St. Francisville. The event is free to attendees. Food vendors will be available. It will feature 30 bands on three stages. Bring an instrument and join some jam sessions. Chairs, blankets and coolers are allowed. Visit www.instagram.com/p/

the merits of his claim that he is unconstitutionally detained,” Dick wrote.

La Coss sought release through a motion for habeas corpus filed February 6. He was arrested September 16. She ordered an evidentiary trial for March 3.

A 47-year-old laborer from Madison, Mississippi, La Coss was born in Manila, Philippines and adopted by Americans stationed by the military in the country He entered the country at the age of 21 and acquired permanent residence status six years later, according to court records.

As a 26-year-old in March 2005

La Coss pleaded guilty to statutory rape of a girl who was 14 years old or younger, court filings show He served two years in the Rankin County, Mississippi jail, had 18 additional years in prison suspended and was required to serve five years of supervision upon release, according to his guilty plea.

His only other crime was a DUI in May 2021, court filings say

DVOQyzUEQIi for the band schedule.

Yard Sale Trail returns

The Tunica Hills Yard Sale Trail is from 8 a.m. April 24 to 4 p.m. April 26. Deadline for signing up is April 1. The trail for the multifamily progressive yard sale will follow Angola Road, Old Tunica Road and the Greenwood area. A Facebook group is available at www.facebook.com/ groups/832172577337930 to see details as they are posted.

Art and music event set for April

From 4 to 8 p.m. April 25, Clinton is Home will host An Evening of Art and Music on St. Helena

Chief Judge Dick was nominated by President Barack Obama as were the two other federal trial judges sitting in the Middle District, which is headquartered in Baton Rouge and covers nine parishes.

Five of the seven federal judges in the Western District, which covers 42 parishes and 47% of the state’s population, were nominated by President Donald Trump; another by President George W. Bush; and the seventh judge by President Joe Biden. There is one vacancy The courts sit in Alexandria, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe and Shreveport.

The three Middle District judges had 474 cases filed in 2025, 72 of which were felony criminal actions. Their dockets showed 569 pending cases on the last day of 2025 according to the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Criminal cases take an average of 11.3 months from filing to disposition.

Street and surrounding area.

Annual reenactment coming

The Siege of Port Hudson Battle Reenactment is March 28-29 at the state historic site, 236 U.S. 61, Jackson. It starts at 2 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Sunday Gates open at 9 a.m.

Concessions and sutlers/vendors will be on-site. Living history and weapons demonstrations will be throughout the day Reenactor camps will be on tour Admission is $6 adults, $4 seniors 62 and above, $3 active-duty military and free for children under 6. Call (225) 654-3775 for information.

The Middle District received 1,421 legal filings requiring judicial disposition, including supervisory release hearings, in 2025 and had 1,707 such actions pending at the end of the year That’s the 35.2% increase since 2020 noted in the governor’s letter

The Western District, by comparison, received 2,642 such filings – a 22.5% increase since 2020 – and had 3,247 actions pending at the end of the year, the Administrative Office recorded.

The seven Western Middle District judges had 377 cases filed in 2025, 55 of which were felony criminal actions and 464 pending cases on the last day of the year, according to the Administrative Office of the U.S Courts. Criminal cases take an average of 10.5 months from filing to disposition in the Western District. Staff writer Meghan Friedmann contributed to this report. Email Mark Ballard at mballard@theadvocate.com.

Update pesticide certifications

A private pesticide applicator recertification training session will be at the Zachary Branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library, 10 a.m. to noon March 12, 1900 Church St., Zachary Attendees needs to bring a current pesticide card and two checks one made to the LSU AgCenter for $15 and one made to LDAF for $25. To reserve a spot, call Donna Gentry at (225) 683-3101 or dsgentry@agcenter.lsu.edu.

Email Leila Pitchford at lpitchford@theadvocate.com.

THE ST. FRANCISVILLE

DEMOCRAT

Leila Pitchford AROUND THE FELICIANAS

Local markets

The Clinton Community Market is from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 8 and every first Saturday in downtown Clinton. Vendors, local shop, restaurants and the Cruisin’ to Clinton car show will be available.

The St. Francisville Farmer’s Market is 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Thursday at 9961 Wilcox St., St. Francisville.

Walk in the Park on March 7

Walk in the Park will be from 10 a.m to 4 p.m. March 7 at Parker Park, St. Francisville.

Arts and crafts will be for sale from vendors. Live music will be by Ben Bell and the Stardust Boys from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m in the Gazebo.

Meet the marshals

The Jackson Lions Club is hosting Meet Your Jackson Deputy Marshals at 6 p.m. March 10 at the Jackson Civic Center, 2084 Charter St. Marshal Mitch Harrell will discuss accomplishments over the past two years and goals for the next two years. Det. Sgt. Chance Davis will provide guidance on what to expect if you are pulled over and what your rights are For information, call (225) 634-5900 or email jmo@jacksonla.gov

Breast scans available

Woman’s Hospital mobile mammography coach makes 3D scanning more accessible. A physician’s order is required, and appointments are strongly encouraged.

The coach will be at Curry Pharmacy, 6216 La. 10, Greensburg, Call (225) 222-6111 to schedule.

It will be at United Methodist Church, 4205 Church St., Zachary, on March 11. Call (225) 924-8268 to schedule.

Need a bed? Help the band

The West Feliciana High School Band is hosting its third annual Mattress & Adjustable Bed Sale from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. March 8 at the high school gym.

Inmate art for sale

An arts and crafts show will be from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 21 at Dixon Correctional Institute, 5568 La. 68, Jackson

Inmate-made items will include paintings, woodworking, furniture, jewelry, leatherwork and more. A pet adoption event will be going on as well. Entry is $5, ages 6 and under are free. All transactions are cash.

Easter Egg hunt slated

The Rosedown Easter Egg Hunt starts at 2 p.m., March 28. Bring a basket for the hunt Refreshments are provided, and 19th century games will follow the hunt. Arrive 20 minutes early to check in. Garden admission fees apply

‘Talent’ is coming

The “East Feliciana’s Got Talent” showcase and festival fundraiser for the East Feliciana COA is evolving. The March 28 event will include a festival outside with vendors selling arts, crafts and such from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. along

ä See AROUND, page 2G

DREAMS REALIZED Camellias in the countryside

BY MELINDA RAWLS HOWELL Contributing writer

Jan Pourciau fulfilled a dream to live in the country in 2015 when she and her husband, Nolen, moved to Edgewood, the 1890 farmhouse in West Feliciana Parish built by Nolen Pourciau’s great-grandparents.

Jan Pourciau shared some of the couple’s dream-come-true story and the ongoing restoration at the farmhouse and garden during the Feb. 11 meeting of Jackson’s Wednesday Club at the home of Julie Wicker Pourciau especially focused on the numerous and well-established camellias on the farmhouse’s landscape.

A Louisiana native and Master Gardener who had a 40-year career in Baton Rouge before the move north to the countryside, Pourciau is a member and former president of the Feliciana Country Gar-

deners as well as participates in a number of other gardening, civic, patriotic and service organizations in the region.

The Pourciau’s cherished camellias were featured in her presentation with visuals of distant scenes and closeup photos. She and her husband “work diligently to restore and preserve the treasured garden collection,” she said at the meeting.

There are over 150 camellias, representing 60 identified varieties, many of which are historical varieties dating before 1900. She also brought along and referenced three books offering them as great resources.

Pourciau said she has learned much but wants to learn to do grafts. She said her father-in-law, who didn’t believe in pruning, did some grafting.

She said some visitors to their 1.3 acres

See CAMELLIAS, page 2G

East Feliciana High School mascot, 2 others indicted on rape charges

BY JAMES MINTON Contributing writer

An East Feliciana Parish grand jury Tuesday indicted three men on one count each of first-degree rape in two cases involving victims under the age of 13, 20th Judicial District Attorney Sam D’Aquilla said. The grand jurors returned indictments against Rinaldo B. Robinson 43, of Clinton, and Desmond Wilson, 45, of Jackson, after hearing from officers who investigated complaints that the men had improper sexual contact with children at different times and locations, the district attorney said.

Robinson, known as “Rah Rah,” has been a popular figure in Clinton for his portrayal of Clinton High School’s Tiger mascot and for the colorful costumes he wore at various community events, such as parades He was arrested Feb. 5 after an investigation by the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office. While investigating a Dec. 28 complaint against Robinson, detectives also received a complaint that Wilson had molested one of the same two children in Jackson, D’Aquilla said Wilson has been jailed since Sept. 8 as a result of a conviction in another case that arose later, the district attorney said.

Although the reported misconduct involved two children in Robinson’s case, prosecutors elected to seek only one first-degree rape indictment.

In a separate case, the grand jury indicted Michael Harrell, 41, of Clinton, after the Sheriff’s Office received information from authorities in Mississippi about reported sexual misconduct involving an East Feliciana child. The resulting investigation led to Harrell’s indictment on a firstdegree rape count, D’Aquilla said. The three men remained in the East Feliciana Parish Jail on Wednesday

Basketball season winding down for Feliciana teams

BY RICHARD MEEK

Contributing writer

Here’s the latest in Feliciana basketball results.

East Feliciana

East Feliciana defeated Logansport 55-53 in a regional playoff game on Feb. 24, advancing to a semifinal matchup against Midland that was scheduled for March 2.

The Tigers, 21-10, defeated Jeanerette 53-43 in a regional matchup Feb. 20.

Kariah Dunn is averaging 13.2 points a game for the Tigers.

West Feliciana

The Saints closed out a 20-pluswin season with a 70-28 home loss to Sterlington in the state quarterfinals.

Ariannah Smith and Laterriona Johnson each scored eight points for West Feliciana, which finished 23-7.

The Saints had earned the quarterfinal berth with a 59-57 victory over Iota on Feb. 24. West Feliciana rallied from a 19-15 first quarter deficit by outscoring Iota 20-13 in the second to take a 35-32 halftime lead.

The Saints expanded the lead to 48-42 at the end of three quarters and were able to hold off the Bulldogs. Smith scored 19 points and Johnson 14 in the victory West Feliciana was also aided by a breakout performance from Maddy Collins, who scored 15 points. Collins had entered the contest averaging five points game. The Saints appeared to be wellpositioned for the future as the current roster features two sophomores and three freshmen.

Landry wants to change Angola’s federal court after immigration rulings

BY MARK BALLARD Staff writer

WASHINGTON Gov Jeff Landry is seeking to move West Feliciana Parish — where the state penitentiary at Angola is located — into a different federal judicial district after criticizing “liberal judges” in the Baton Rouge area for letting immigration detainees out of the “Louisiana Lockup” there.

In a letter to Louisiana members of Congress on Thursday, Landry asked to move the parish from the U.S. Middle District of Louisiana to the Western District. In the letter, he cited an increase in cases, much of it driven by prisoners at Angola.

“The Middle District has seen a 35.2% increase in total filings since 2020 and currently has 25% more new filings per judge than the Western District,” Landry wrote. “Moving West Feliciana Parish into the Western District will improve judicial efficiency and better address public safety needs in East Baton Rouge Parish and the State of Louisiana.” Congressional action is necessary to effect the Landry proposes. But Landry showed another reason for the request Thursday when he blasted a federal judge in the Middle District over an immigration case.

“ALERT! The Liberal Judges of the Middle District of Louisiana are at it again,” Landry wrote Thursday afternoon on X. “Judge

ä See LANDRY, page 2G

CAMELLIAS

Continued from page 1G

were amazed at the size of the camellias trees. Her knowledge of the pests and diseases of camellias has increased, she said, but she was advised by an expert Trent James, to relax She said she came to realize that camellias are hardy and that she had the proof in the garden.

Her talk included brief information about participating in shows. Anyone can go or enter, she said, and there is no cost She approaches it as a hobby, she added, and does not consider herself competitive She explained how the blooms were transported and displayed and said she has enjoyed the experience.

Pourciau said she is still adding to the garden at Edgewood and restoration continues on their home.

LANDRY

Continued from page 1G

Shelly Dick has ordered the release of a convicted RAPIST from the Louisiana Lockup, allowing him to roam free.” Landry continued: “News flash: in Louisiana, we protect victims and punish criminals NOT the other way around. Those who are in the Country illegally and commit crimes like this should be locked away until deportation! Shame on you Judge Dick!”

U.S. Rep. Julia Letlow, the Baton Rouge Republican whose district includes West Feliciana Parish, reposted Landry’s criticism of Dick, and said she would be sponsoring a bill to move the parish’s jurisdiction.

“I stand with Governor Landry and [President Donald Trump] in supporting conservative judges,” Letlow wrote. Earlier this month, both Landry

AROUND

Continued from page 1G

with Cajun music from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and raffle drawings throughout the day From 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. inside, the talent contest with refreshments will benefit the Council on Aging. Admission will be a $20 donation. MORE AUDITIONS: Another day of auditions for the show has been set for March 21 from 9 a.m. until noon. Singers, dancers, musicians and other performers from East Feliciana residents are encouraged to audition to participate in the talent contest The

and Letlow publicly criticized Middle District Judge John deGravelles after Fox News reported that the judge had ordered four Louisiana Lockup detainees to be released from custody. Rep. Cleo Fields, Baton Rouge Democrat in whose district the federal courthouse is located, said Friday: “I have not seen evidence that the current district boundaries are failing the people they serve. The Middle District was established for good reason, and an established appeals process already exists for litigants who believe a court has erred. I remain committed to protecting the independence and integrity of our federal judiciary.”

The case Landry criticized Landry was referring to a court order Dick signed Monday ordering the release of Roberto La Coss from Immigration and Customs Enforcement detention.

“Court finds that Petitioner is substantially likely to succeed on

winner to be chosen by the audience at the March 28 event.

The location for the auditions is at the Jackson site for the COA, 3699 La. 10, Jackson.

Tunica Music Festival scheduled

The 10th annual Tunica Music Festival will be from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. March 28 in Parker Park, in the amphitheater across the street on Chris and Cherie Fry’s property, and in Bayou Sara Brewing in St. Francisville. The event is free to attendees. Food vendors will be available. It will feature 30 bands on three stages. Bring an instrument and join some jam sessions. Chairs, blankets and coolers are allowed. Visit www.instagram.com/p/

the merits of his claim that he is unconstitutionally detained,” Dick wrote.

La Coss sought release through a motion for habeas corpus filed February 6. He was arrested September 16. She ordered an evidentiary trial for March 3.

A 47-year-old laborer from Madison, Mississippi, La Coss was born in Manila, Philippines and adopted by Americans stationed by the military in the country He entered the country at the age of 21 and acquired permanent residence status six years later, according to court records.

As a 26-year-old in March 2005

La Coss pleaded guilty to statutory rape of a girl who was 14 years old or younger, court filings show He served two years in the Rankin County, Mississippi jail, had 18 additional years in prison suspended and was required to serve five years of supervision upon release, according to his guilty plea.

His only other crime was a DUI in May 2021, court filings say

DVOQyzUEQIi for the band schedule.

Yard Sale Trail returns

The Tunica Hills Yard Sale Trail is from 8 a.m. April 24 to 4 p.m. April 26. Deadline for signing up is April 1. The trail for the multifamily progressive yard sale will follow Angola Road, Old Tunica Road and the Greenwood area. A Facebook group is available at www.facebook.com/ groups/832172577337930 to see details as they are posted. Art and music event set for April

From 4 to 8 p.m. April 25, Clinton is Home will host An Evening of Art and Music on St. Helena

DEMOCRAT

Chief Judge Dick was nominated by President Barack Obama as were the two other federal trial judges sitting in the Middle District, which is headquartered in Baton Rouge and covers nine parishes.

Five of the seven federal judges in the Western District, which covers 42 parishes and 47% of the state’s population, were nominated by President Donald Trump; another by President George W. Bush; and the seventh judge by President Joe Biden. There is one vacancy The courts sit in Alexandria, Lafayette, Lake Charles, Monroe and Shreveport.

The three Middle District judges had 474 cases filed in 2025, 72 of which were felony criminal actions. Their dockets showed 569 pending cases on the last day of 2025 according to the Administrative Office of the U.S. Courts. Criminal cases take an average of 11.3 months from filing to disposition.

Street and surrounding area.

Annual reenactment coming

The Siege of Port Hudson Battle Reenactment is March 28-29 at the state historic site, 236 U.S. 61, Jackson. It starts at 2 p.m. Saturday and 1:30 p.m. Sunday Gates open at 9 a.m.

Concessions and sutlers/vendors will be on-site. Living history and weapons demonstrations will be throughout the day Reenactor camps will be on tour Admission is $6 adults, $4 seniors 62 and above, $3 active-duty military and free for children under 6. Call (225) 654-3775 for information.

The Middle District received 1,421 legal filings requiring judicial disposition, including supervisory release hearings, in 2025 and had 1,707 such actions pending at the end of the year That’s the 35.2% increase since 2020 noted in the governor’s letter

The Western District, by comparison, received 2,642 such filings – a 22.5% increase since 2020 – and had 3,247 actions pending at the end of the year, the Administrative Office recorded.

The seven Western Middle District judges had 377 cases filed in 2025, 55 of which were felony criminal actions and 464 pending cases on the last day of the year, according to the Administrative Office of the U.S Courts. Criminal cases take an average of 10.5 months from filing to disposition in the Western District. Staff writer Meghan Friedmann contributed to this report. Email Mark Ballard at mballard@theadvocate.com.

Update pesticide certifications

A private pesticide applicator recertification training session will be at the Zachary Branch of the East Baton Rouge Parish Library, 10 a.m. to noon March 12, 1900 Church St., Zachary Attendees needs to bring a current pesticide card and two checks one made to the LSU AgCenter for $15 and one made to LDAF for $25. To reserve a spot, call Donna Gentry at (225) 683-3101 or dsgentry@agcenter.lsu.edu.

Email Leila Pitchford at lpitchford@theadvocate.com.

The following people were booked into the East Feliciana Parish jail by Clinton, Jackson, Norwood, Slaughter or Wilson police departments, the East Feliciana Parish Sheriff’s Office or Louisiana State Police from Dec. 5-Feb. 19.

DEC. 5

CHARLES SUMMRALL: 56; 9206 La. 959. Slaughter; two counts warrants, speeding, hunting deer illegal hours with artificial lights

DEC. 6

JOHNNY FLOWERS BARNES: 43; 3203 Quiet Lane, Jackson; possession of Schedule I drugs, flight from officer aggravated, reckless operation no accident, two counts speeding

DEC. 7

HOPE MILLER: 51; 2435 E. Smiley Ave., Baton Rouge; fugitive warrant

DEC. 8

VICTOR COVINGTON: 39; 3639 Van Burn St., Baker; fugitive for Jefferson Parish

BRENDON BRIDGEWATER: 25; 9047 Whitfield St., Baton Rouge; fugitive warrant

DEC. 11

JASMINE CAIN: 32; 3112 Eddie Robinson Lane, Jackson; fugitive warrant for Ascension Parish

DEC. 12

DEVIN HUNT: 31; 22830 Plank Road, Zachary; fugitive for Denham Springs

GAVIN VASSEUR: 23; 845 S Wimberly Road, Church Point; bench warrant, stalking simple assault, improper language, harassment telephone communication

AMY RUSHING: 38; 4011 La. 67, Slaughter; fugitive for West Feliciana Parish

BRANDON TRAFFICANO: 45; 4011 La. 67, Slaughter; fugitive for West Feliciana Parish

SHARDEL HAMPTON: 29; 4210 Shaffet Lane, Zachary; battery on police, resisting by force or violence

IDA FLOWERS: 71; 17615 Clarence St., Clinton; bench warrant

LUIE CANEZARO: 53; 5475 Rolling Acres, Baker; DWI first offense, use of multiple beam road lighting equipment, driving on roadway laned for traffic, possession of alcoholic beverage in motor vehicle

CHRISTOPHER CANNON: 28; Harding St., Baker; DWI first offense, headlamps for motor vehicles, possession of alcoholic beverage in motor vehicle

DEC. 13

QUANTELLA BOURGEOIS: 43; 1526 Martin Luther Lane, Jeanerette; introduction of contraband, possession of Schedule I drugs

DEC. 15

TERRAL HARRELL: 46; 7735 Battle Road, Ethel; two counts bench warrant

DEC. 16

LADARION WHITFIELD: 9400A Jones Vaughn Creek Road, St. Francisville; aggravated obstruction of a right-of-way, reckless operation of a vehicle, aggravated flight from officer, maximum speed limit

DEC. 17

DONALD PIERCE: 53; 6754 La. 68, Jackson; obstruction of highway, aggravated flight from officer, proper equipment required, violation of registration, reckless operation

DEC. 19

BRIAN ANTHONY: 39; 5568 La. 68, Jackson; aggravated battery

KIRKLAND BOOTH: 28; 5568

La. 68, Jackson; battery of a correctional officer

ERNEST RICHARDSON: 38; 5568 La. 68 Jackson; seconddegree battery

BRANDON JEFFERSON: 30; 5568 La. 68, Jackson; battery of a correctional officer

SEAN CARTER: 31; 5226 La. 10 Jackson, introduction to contraband, possession of Schedule I drugs, possession of Schedule II drugs

KEARY WALKER JR.: 18; 13439 Bella Case Ave., Baton Rouge; fugitive for East Baton Rouge Parish

ROBERTS OWENS: 45; 34134

Kingfisher St., Denham Springs; bench warrant

JAYDEN BARNES: 18; 1336 Cedar Trail Ave., Zachary; home invasion

DEC. 23

TERRIANNA BROWN:19; 42164 Garden Drive, Ponchatoula; introduction of contrabandpenal institute, possession of heroin with intent to distribute, possession of Schedule 3 drug with intent to distribute

TIDASHA GARNER: 22; 1616 McMoore Road, Hammond; introduction of contrabandpenal institute, possession of marijuana, possession of synthetic cannabinoids Schedule I, possession of heroin with intent to distribute, possession of Schedule III drugs with intent to distribute

DEC. 25

JARREL BROWN: 55; 11532 Biennale St., New Orleans; disturbing peace, resisting arrest of officer

DEC. 26

NESHELA JOHNSON: 32; 1167 Rist Road, Clinton; possession of marijuana

DEC. 27

MARION STRONG: 47; 260 S. Gordon St., Centreville, Mississippi; fugitive for East Baton Rouge Parish

JONATHAN HONEA: 43; 1723 Lyman Lane, Clinton; bench warrant

DEC. 28

AMBROSIA LAMIEUX: 34; 9121 Memphis Trace, Denham Springs; resisting an officer, introduction to contrabandpenal institute

DARIUS DIXON: 40; 12291 Littlewoods Drive, Baton Rouge; reckless operation no accident, driver must be licensed, proper equipment required on vehicle, prohibited acts, distribution of drugs paraphernalia, two counts possession of Schedule I and two counts drugs with intent to distribute, transaction involving proceeds from drug offenses

DEC. 30

JOHN CRUM: 51; 1121 Rist Road, Clinton; criminal trespass, possession of Schedule II drug

DEC. 31

KENDRICK ARMSTEAD: 38; 932 Chapel Hill Road, Natchez, Mississippi; failure to register, no driver’s license, obstruction of justice, possession of Schedule I and II drugs

ALEXIS CHAPPA: 25; 501 Newt Patterson Road, Mansfield Texas; entry or remaining in place after being forbidden

JAN. 1

JESSICA ROWE: 44; 752 Connie Drive, Jackson; two counts possession of Schedule II drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, operating vehicle with suspended license other offenses, turning movements and required signals

JAN. 2

MITCHELL WALTER: 42; 12796 Taylor St., Clinton; negligent injuring

JAN. 3

BRIAN ALLEN: 46; 1021 Robert

EAST FELICIANA PARISH BOOKINGS

Newport Lane, Jackson; DWI first offense, reckless operation, no insurance, examination of applicants required classes of license

ALAISIA ESCORT: 25; 1901 Eraste Landing Road, Apt. 1009, Lafayette; introduction of contraband into penal facility

TROY CUFF JR.: 37; 5905 La. 10, Jackson; bench warrant

JAN. 4

REID KELLY: 24; 1896 Midway Road, Slaughter; DWI first offense, improper lane usage, open container

JAN. 5

DEQUARSH LAVERGNE: 39; 3968 N. Lake Ave., Baton Rouge; fugitive for Crowley

JAN. 7

JASON CHILDRESS: 36; 9330 Pride-Port Hudson Road, Pride; illegal possession of stolen firearm, possession of firearm of convicted felon

JAN. 9

MICHAEL HARRELL: 42; 10506 Oak Drive, Clinton; first degree rape, indecent behavior with juvenile, crime against nature

DAJARON PERRY: 28; 11800 Marston St., Apt B-11, Clinton; bench warrant

JAN. 10

RANDALL WARNER: 61; 2730 La. 957 Ethel; DWI first offense

JAN. 12

JAYLON TURNER: 21; 3626 N. Cedar St., Zachary; malfeasance in office, introduction of contraband into penal institution

JAN. 13

MARVIN JONES: 22; 12306 Haynes St., Clinton; introduction of contraband into penal institution

DAVID HALL: 56; 12472 Gross Road, Clinton; introduction of contraband, possession of legend drugs

MCKENZIE JONES: 25; 1407 Singletary St., New Roads; introduction of contraband

JAN. 14

JERMAINE WILLIAMS: 18; 7524 Greenwell St., Baton Rouge; introduction of contraband

JINEUA LANUS: 25; 857 H St., Crosby, Mississippi; fugitive warrant

JAN. 15

CHELSEA PATRICK: 28; 8381 Carruth Road, Wilson; theft over $1,000

JAN .16

JOHN COOK: 40; 2012 Mission Drive, Baton Rouge; criminal trespass, possession of firearm by convicted felon, illegal use of weapon, obstruction of justice evidence tampering

TALORRA JOHNSON: 23; 4053

Bennett St., Zachary; two counts bench warrant

JAN .17

REEGAN TRIPEAUX: 35; 6936 Silver Springs Drive, Central; introduction to contraband, possession of drug paraphernalia, possession of Schedule I synthetic cannabinols

JAN. 20

THOMAS DUNCAN: 38; 9372

Arlean Drive, Zachary; probation violation

LEPARD WILLIAMS: 68; 5531 La. 19 Ethel, DWI first offense, careless operation

JAN. 21

TYRONE SPURLOCK: 24; 2221

James Dunn Lane, Jackson; indecent behavior with a juvenile

JAN. 22

HENRY WILLIAMS: 52; 1525

Brenda Travis St., McComb, Mississippi; possession with firearm by convicted felon, possession of Schedule I and

WEST FELICIANA PARISH BOOKINGS

The following people were booked into the West Feliciana Parish Detention Center between Feb. 16-22: FEB. 18

DUBOIS, CORT: 22; 00008 Main St., Angola; battery of a dating partner, telephone communications/improper language/harassment

FEB. 20 SNYDER, AMY: 39; 00048 Evergreen Road, Fayette, Mississippi; failure to appear, issuance of arrest warrant TOLLIVER, DEONDRA: 31; 00361 Ferguson St., Woodville, Mississippi; fugitive warrant EBBS EDWARD: 48; 08552 Sligo Road, St. Francisville; possession of firearm/concealed by convicted felon, parole violation MATA SALES, CANDIDO: 41; 08837 U.S. 61, St. Francisville; cruelty to juveniles intentional

University of Louisiana Monroe announces its fall 2025 honors lists

Community news report

John Humble, a management major from Wilson, was named to the University of Louisiana Monroe’s fall 2025 president’s list

Eligibility for the list requires full-time enrollment (minimum of 12 semester hours completed) and the list is calculated based on the following G.P.A. hours and term G.P.A.: an undergraduate student is required to earn at least a 3.9 grade-point average. Whitney Gros, of Slaughter, and Madelyn Schulte, of St. Francisville, was named to the school’s dean’s list for fall 2025.

Eligibility for the dean’s list requires full-time enrollment (minimum of 12 semester hours completed) and the list is calculated based on the following G.P.A. hours and term G.P.A.: an undergraduate student is required to earn at least a 3.5 grade-point average.

II with intent to distribute

DAVID WILLIAMS: 57; 14000 Morgan Lane, Norwood; violation of protective orders

JERRY HARRIS: 37; 445 Magnolia St., Gloster, Mississippi; probation violation

JAN. 23

DEVONTA RICHARD: 27; 1111 Roper Road, Scott; simple burglary, obstruction of justice, theft of an ATM, simple criminal damage to property mask or hoods wearing in public places prohibited

CANDACE NOAON: 50; 999 Rosenwald Road, Apt. 8094, Baton Rouge; bench warrant

DWAYNE HAYES: 61; 13219 La. 10, Clinton; fugitive warrant

JAN 24

JOSHUA ROBERTS: 44; 21460 La. 10, Denham Springs; criminal trespass/all other offenses, unauthorized use of movable, unauthorized entry on inhabited dwelling

JAN. 26

TAMEKA ARMSTEAD: 47; 2350 Munson Road, Slaughter; battery of a dating partner, aggravated assault with firearm

HEATHER DAVIS: 45; 2607 Meadowood Drive, Slaughter; bench warrant

JAN. 27

JUSTIN WHITE: 34; 10495 Grant St., Wilson; fugitive warrant for East Baton Rouge

JENIKO THOMAS: 25; 8505 Dehove St., Baton Rouge; sentenced by court

JAN. 28

LANDON KNIGHT: 34; 8364 Barnett Road, Baton Rouge; second degree battery

JAN. 29

DAMARCUS GROSS: 32; 20127 Pride-Baywood Road, Greenwell Springs; jumping bail

JAN. 30

ANTONIO WARREN: 24; 4502 State St., Jackson; introduction to contraband, possession of Schedule I with intent to distribute

CHRISTOPHER STEVENSON: 26; 264 Sharp St. Baton Rouge; possession of firearm-felon, proper equipment required on vehicle, driver must be licensed, operating a vehicle without license

JAN. 31

DONNELL TUNIORS: 51; 12704

Teakwood Drive, Baker; resisting arrest of officer, interfering with investigation

RAYMOND DUNN: 45; 2496 Holcombe Drive, Jackson; possession of marijuana, possession of Schedule II drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia, driving under suspension, safety belt use, tags indicating exemption

DENNIS JEFFERSON: 41; 13034

La. 955 East, Ethel; fugitive for East Baton Rouge

JASCENT SCOTT: 26; 4377

Wimbush Drive, Baker; possession of firearm at a parade, resisting an officer two counts

NOAH BASQUINE: 19; 3673 Turner Road, Ethel; obstruction of justice, attempted second degree murder six counts, discharge of a firearm at a parade

FEB. 2

CLINTON FINCH: 22; 5778 N. Commerce St., St. Francisville; bench warrant

FEB. 3

D’TREYLIN WHIT: 18; 3300 Franklin St., Jackson; principal to attempted second degree murder six counts, principal to obstruction of justice, principal to discharge of a firearm at a parade

DELAWRENCESO BRANCH: 33; 12378 Branch Lane, Clinton; bench warrant

FEB. 4

ROBERT CONERLY: 70; 2806 Kathy Circle, Jackson; bench warrant

TYLER JOHNSON: 22; 111 Nelson Ball Field Loop, Roxie, Mississippi; possession of Schedule ll drugs with intent to distribute, possession of firearm with controlled dangerous substance, evidence of compulsory motor vehicle liability security contained, possession of drug paraphernalia, stop lamps and turn signals required on new motor vehicles, color of clearance lamps, identification lamps, side marker

FEB. 5

RINALDO ROBINSON: 43; 10737 Johnson St., Clinton; firstdegree rape, two counts

FEB. 6

ARTHUR WEATHERSPOON: 45; 11185 La. 68/P.O. Box 246, Wilson; DWI-first, driving on roadway lane for traffic, possession of alcoholic beverage in motor vehicle

FEB. 7

LACHANDEN MCCORKLE: 19; 8432 Folly Brown Road, Clinton; aggravated flight, use of telecommunications while driving

FEB. 9

GLEEN DOUCET: 60; 12237 La. 961, Clinton; parole violation

ABBEY WALKER: 42; 12796 Taylor St., Clinton; bench warrant

FEB. 11

CASSIDY SHAW: 45; 15666 Geraldine St., Baton Rouge; fugitive for East Baton Rouge

KORY WHITE: 49; 2985 Charles Drive, Jackson; bench warrant

TIMOTHY R. HALL: 22; 7002 La. 10, Jackson; bench warrant

FEB. 14

TZOY PEDRA: 29; 16650 Springs Ranch Road, Livingston; DWI first offense, improper lane use, no driver’s license

FEB.

FEB.

FEB.

at Bank of Zachary.

Digging deeper into cell signaling at West Feliciana High

Feliciana High School AP biology students are studying cell signaling pathways by comparing effectiveness of commercial rooting gel and natural plant hormones by observing the rate of callus and root formation in control and treatment groups of basil cuttings.