Month: September 2025

Arrest Report

/ Megan Lowe

The following arrests were made by local law enforcement officers from Sept. 15 through Sept. 21.

This information has been provided by a law enforcement agency as public information. Persons named as suspects in a criminal investigation, or arrested and charged with a crime, have not been convicted of any criminal offense and are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

APSO Jail Bookings Report 9-05 through 9-21Download

BPD investigating vehicle break-ins

/ Megan Lowe
Bunkie Police Department is currently investigating reports of vehicle break-ins that have occurred in and around the North Gayle and North Weir Boulevard areas. These incidents have taken place during late-night hours over the past few nights.
 
Since the first report, the Bunkie PD Patrol Division has increased presence in these areas. Screenshots can be seen above, and video surveillance from two separate locations related to these incidents is available on the BPD Facebook page.
 
Assistant Chief of Police Brandon Horton issued the following statement: “Our investigations division is actively working on these recent incidents where these thieves have chosen the wrong community to do business. We will hold accountable anyone who attempts to make crime their business in Bunkie. Our citizens work hard for the property they own, and it is our duty at Bunkie PD to protect it. I also want to encourage our citizens to make sure vehicles are locked and valuables are secured at all times. If anyone has any information regarding these suspects or incidents, please contact the Bunkie Police Department.”

Bunkie PD’s new officers complete firearms certification

/ Megan Lowe
The Bunkie Police Department has announced that its newest officers have successfully completed their firearms certification training as part of the Louisiana POST (Peace Officer Standards and Training) requirements.
 
Assistant Chief of Police Brandon Horton emphasized that all newly hired officers are required to undergo multiple mandated POST training courses, including firearms qualifications, to ensure they are properly prepared to serve and protect the community.
 
The firearms certification course was made possible through the instruction and guidance of Captain Carmouche of the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office. The Bunkie Police Department extends a special thanks to Captain Carmouche for his professionalism, expertise, and dedication in providing this vital training.
Bunkie PD remains committed to equipping its officers with the skills, knowledge, and training necessary to perform their duties safely and effectively while maintaining the highest standards of law enforcement.

APSO sergeant finds an unwanted passenger in patrol unit

/ Megan Lowe
An Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office patrol sergeants was conducting a traffic stop in the Moreauville area when he discovered an unwanted and highly dangerous passenger in his vehicle on Wednesday evening, Sept. 17. He observed a snake slithering out of his patrol unit and getting uncomfortably close.
 
Luckily, the sergeant was not injured, just a little shook up. A K-9 deputy arrived on scene and safely handled the situation without further incident. The unwelcome visitor was identified as a venomous snake, commonly known as a “Cottonmouth.” A video of the snake can be seen on the APSO Facebook page.
 
Sheriff Dauzat stated, “You truly never know what you will face on any given shift. One minute you’re conducting a routine traffic stop, and the next you’re dealing with a dangerous reptile in your vehicle. I’m thankful our Sergeant was alert and wasn’t harmed. I’m also proud of our K-9 Deputy for having the skills to handle this unusual and dangerous situation.”
 
Law enforcement officers face many dangers while serving citizens on duty each and every day. Everyone is thankful this one ended safely. 
 
For emergencies, always dial 911. For non-emergencies, you may contact our office at (318) 253-4000 or via email at info@AvoyellesSO.org.

Reception for ‘Autumn Fantasies – Frank Coco Reimagines Fall in Louisiana’ to be held Oct. 1

/ Megan Lowe
The Avoyelles Arts Council invites the public to attend the public opening reception for photographer Frank Coco and his photographic exhibition, “Autumn Fantasies – Frank Coco Reimagines Fall in Louisiana,” at Gallery on the Square (122 E. Mark St., Marksville) from 5-7pm on Wednesday, Oct. 1.
 
Frank will be on hand to speak about his photographs and the use of HDR photo imaging. Light refreshments will be served.

AHS alumnus, current student complete stair walk to commemorate 9/11

/ Megan Lowe

Each year in remembrance of the firefighters who died on 9/11, fire departments across America participate in the stair walk. This year, Avoyelles High School was proud to have a Mustang alumnus and a member of the junior class run 2,200 stairs, symbolizing the number of stairs the firefighters traveled in the Twin Towers.

AHS expressed gratitude and congratulations to their two amazing Mustangs – Ethan Rusk, class of 2023, representing the St. George Fire Department, and Owen Rusk, class of 2027, representing the Simmesport Fire Department – for a job well done. 

Northwestern State University refreshes website to welcome future students

/ Megan Lowe

Choosing a college can feel overwhelming for students and families. With so many questions about programs, admissions, campus life, and cost, the search often begins online. But if a university website feels dated or confusing, that first impression can create more stress than clarity.

Northwestern State University in Natchitoches has recognized this challenge and responded with a bold solution: a redesigned website that puts students and families first.

Unveiled this month, the new nsula.edu is built to guide prospective students, parents, and the community through a clear, engaging digital experience.

“Our enhanced site is dynamic, mobile-friendly, and designed with users in mind,” said Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer. “Whether you’re a high school student exploring majors, a parent reviewing financial aid, or a faculty member sharing research, the website is your first step into NSU.”

The redesign highlights admissions, academic programs, and campus life while showing the long-term value of an NSU degree.

“The website is more than just a facelift,” Gentry explained. “It’s a living, adaptable platform that will continue to grow alongside our students, faculty, alumni, and the broader Natchitoches community.”

Features include:

  • Simple admissions navigation
  • Interactive views of academic offerings
  • Mobile-first design for families on the go
  • Accessibility to ensure every visitor has a seamless experience

For President James T. Genovese, the project signals NSU’s forward momentum.

“This new digital front door reflects who we are today and the bright future we’re building,” Genovese said. “It shows students across Louisiana and beyond that NSU is a place where they can belong, grow, and succeed.”

While prospective students are the primary audience, the refreshed website also serves alumni, current students, faculty, staff, and the local community. From campus events to academic updates, nsula.edu is designed to be a central hub for all who are part of the NSU family.

“Our goal is for everyone who visits the site to feel connected,” said Gentry. “For prospective students especially, we want them to see themselves at NSU from the very first click.”

As students and families look ahead to the next chapter of education, a strong first step can make all the difference. Northwestern State University’s new website is designed to open doors, answer questions, and showcase the opportunities waiting in Natchitoches.

Discover the redesigned experience today at www.nsula.edu.

Avoyelles Parish Schools offer athletic passes to retired employees

/ Megan Lowe
Avoyelles Parish Schools is proud to honor the dedication and years of service of their retired employees. Starting this year, retirees can apply for a Retire Employee Athletic Pass that gives them free admission to all home regular-season school athletic events at all APS schools.
 
It’s their way of saying “thank you” for all they’ve done to support students, schools, and community—while keeping them connected to the excitement of APS athletics.
 
Applications are available now at the APS Central Office.