October - December 2018 Quarterly Newsletter
Oct. - Dec. 2018 Quarterly Newsletter
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Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff's Office Oct. - Dec. 2018 Quarterly Newsletter |
During the October – December 2018 quarter, the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office experienced many new changes and welcomed many accomplishments and achievements for the agency and community. JDPSO is proud to share these milestones and events with the citizens of the parish.
JDPSO participates in LA National Night Out
During the first week in October, the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) joined the Lake Arthur Police Department (LAPD), along with members of several other parish and city first responder agencies, on Main Street in Lake Arthur for a parish-wide community effort to celebrate National Night Out.
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Sponsored by the National Association of Town Watch in the United States and Canada National Night Out has been held annually since 1984. The community and police event is designed to raise awareness for crime and drug prevention, as well as strengthen neighborhood spirit and police-community partnerships. |
The first National Night Out involved 2.5 million residents across 400 communities in 23 states. By 2016, over 38 million residents in 16,000 communities across the United States were involved by taking part in organized outdoor gatherings to help build strong bonds with neighbors and police. Along with the festivities, area police officers, fire fighters and paramedics provide safety demonstrations and exhibits in which residents may participate.
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The Lake Arthur community has been holding the National Night Out event annually since 2015 and it continues to grow each year. Participants enjoyed free barbecue hamburgers and beverages, while a DJ provided musical entertainment. |
The JDPSO D.A.R.E. truck was provided to the public event and allowed youth to play games on the portable X-Box gaming system housed in the custom-built case in the cargo area of the truck.
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D.A.R.E. Officer Gale Richard invited youth to shoot hoops while wearing the D.A.R.E. “drunk goggles,” which allows the wearer to experience what it’s like to perform basic actions while under a simulated alcohol influence. |
Coffee with a Cop
Deputies with the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) gathered at one local Jennings business to celebrate National Coffee with a Cop Day.
Began in 2011 in Hawthorne, Ca., Coffee with a Cop Day is a community event held on the first Wednesday of October and was originally created to build a relationship between the members of the Hawthorne Police Department, the U.S Department of Justice and the Office of Community Policing to form bonds and help build a stronger, better community. The grassroots initiative encourages community businesses to invite members of local law enforcement agencies to sit down together with the public.
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This October, JDPSO Shift Supervisors Joe Soileau and Jeremy Broussard, along with Patrol Deputy Christopher LaFluer and K-9 Deputy Jonathan Hebert, spent Coffee with a Cop morning with a group of citizens at McDonald’s in Jennings. |
Sheriff leads JDP Fair Parade
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As the Jefferson Davis Parish Fair season kicks off, Sheriff Ivy Woods leads the Jefferson Davis Parish Fair Parade. This year, as sirens blared and lights flashed, the Sheriff rode in the D.A.R.E. truck, tossing candy and Frisbees to the crowds. |
JDPSO maintains JDP Fair security
JDPSO Deputies provided a heavy law enforcement presence during the Jefferson Davis Parish Fair, ensuring the safety and security of citizens as they enjoy the celebrations. Deputies regularly patrolled the fairgrounds, closely monitored crowd activity and aided those in need.
The JDPSO mobile command unit also remained on scene, providing a centralized location on site for citizens to reach out in the event of an emergency.
JDPSO lends a hand at VA Fishing Rodeo
The Annual Fishing Rodeo is part of the regularly scheduled family and community events at the Southwest Louisiana Veterans Home (SWLVA) in Jennings. The Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) is on hand to provide support and aid during many SWLVA functions and lends a hand when and where needed.
JDPSO speaks at Entre' nous meeting
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The Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) was represented by Chief Deputy Chris Ivey and Public Relations Deputy Aubrey Broussard during the October meeting of the Entre’ nous ladies’ group. |
In recognition of crime prevention month, Ivey spoke to attendants about practical ways citizens can proactively protect themselves from criminal behavior. He discussed different types of phone scams that have recently become increasingly more common and answered questions from attendants.
Broussard provided information regarding an update on the new Jefferson Davis Parish Consolidated Jail, the tax created for the purpose of providing funding for jail maintenance and the authority in which the project falls under.
JDPSO supports Jennings Lion's Club
The Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) supported the Jennings Lion’s Club during the first annual Kindness Rocks Anti-Bullying Walk/Run Fun Day Event. The Fun Day was held at the Louisiana Oil and Gas Park, located near I-10 in Jennings.
Participants enjoyed music, fun jumps, face and rock painting, a selfie booth, the JDPSO D.A.R.E. truck portable X-Box gaming system and free snacks and refreshments, along with the run.
Sheriff Ivy Woods, Commander Bill Kettler, D.A.R.E. Officers Mika Miguez and Gale Richard, as well as School Resource Officers Tiffany Bertrand and Brock Himel helped to make the fun day a success.
Sheriff supports CADA fundraiser
Sheriff Ivy Woods, along with the aid and support of his 2018 cook team, participated in the Communities Against Domestic Abuse (CADA) Taste N’ Tell fundraiser benefitting the local woman’s shelter.
Members of the 2018 C.A.D.A. cook team for the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office are pictured here (from left to right): Courtney Vincent Plauche, Bridgit Woods, Sheriff Ivy Woods, Danette Hargrave, Christopher Ivey, Russell Vincent, Karen Hay, Robin Vincent and Brittany Vincent.
CADA holds the annual Taste N’ Tell cook-off to raise funding to help survivors of domestic violence escape abusive partners and rebuild new lives.
This year, Sheriff Woods was supported by Russell Vincent, who prepared this year’s contest entry, Seafood Chowder. Mr. Vincent’s wife, Robin and their two daughters, Courtney and Brittney decorated the Sheriff’s entry table. The Vincent family then assisted JDPSO staff members, Finance Division Commander Danette Hargrave and Finance Deputy/OEP Assistant Director Karen Hay, who volunteered to serve the appetizer dish to cook-off participants.
Center: Members of the Sheriff's Office who also attended in support of CADA were Det. Roxi Guidry, Dy. Aubrey Broussard and Dy. Sarah Fox.
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LEFT: During this year’s C.A.D.A. Taste-N-Tell cook-off, Sheriff Ivy Woods took home the award for Best Appetizer (far left) and the People’s Choice (left). He was presented the awards by C.A.D.A. Board Member Bernadine Daboval. |
JDPSO participates in JHS Career Expo
Jeff Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) D.A.R.E. Officer Gale Richard participated in the Jennings High School (JHS) Career Expo this fall. Deputy Richard spoke to eleventh grade students from all over the parish regarding a career in law enforcement.
EHS Student Council donates stuffed toys to JDPSO
The Elton High School (EHS) Student Council held their fifth consecutive toy drive for the Sheriff’s Office.
The drive, Operation Kuddles for Kids, was created to provide soft, plush toys for deputies to carry in their units. The toys are distributed to small children they encounter during traumatic calls, or for in-service officers to provide affirmation to troubled students with disciplinary issues. The program is led by Student Council Director EHS teacher Jessica Guillory.
JDPSO supports local Head Start Program
In celebration of National Head Start Week, members of the Sheriff’s Office were invited to participate in the festivities at Save the Children Head Start in Jennings.
LEFT: JDPSO Commander Bill Kettler read a story to a class and spoke to them about law enforcement.
RIGHT: Other city and parish dignitaries who participated in the week’s events pictured here (from left to right) are Jennings Police Department (JPD) K-9 Officer Christopher Wallace with K-9 Daisy, Teacher Assistant Towona King, Jeff Davis Parish School Board Superintendent of Schools Kirk Credeur, JPD Chief Danny Semmes, Jeff Davis Parish District Attorney Michael Cassidy, JDPSO Public Relations Dy. Aubrey Broussard, JDPSO Commander Bill Kettler, Head Start Director Johnnie Belle Chavis, Jennings Mayor Henry Guinn and JPD Communications Officer Peaches Guidry.
CADA hosts law enforcement appreciation luncheon
The Communities Against Domestic Abuse (CADA) hosted their annual Law Enforcement Appreciation Luncheon.
Members of the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office, as well as members of all other parish law enforcement, fire department and first responder agencies were invited to enjoy a spaghetti lunch with all the sides, followed by cake for dessert.
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ABOVE: Members of JDPSO pictured above (in no particular order) are Kenneth Hebert, Bill Kettler, Mika Miguez, Tiffany Bertrand, Gale Richard, Michael Gary, Billy Pinch, Robert Lane, Chris Gaspard, Travis Savoy, Roxi Guidry, Dennis Fruge, Sheriff Ivy Woods and Chief Deputy Chris Ivey. RIGHT: The ladies of CADA (from left to right): Ora Randolph, Lacey Guidry, Dayna Swartz and Cynthia Petry. |
Sheriff hosts annual COA Fall Fest Gumbo
The Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) hosted the annual Fall Fest Gumbo Celebration in conjunction with the JDP Council on Aging.
Every October, Sheriff Ivy Woods provides a chicken and sausage gumbo for the senior citizens of the parish. Close friend and supporter Wayne McVicker graciously volunteers his time and cooking talents to preparing the hot traditional Louisiana dish, complete with rice and potato salad.
Over 250 senior citizens attended, plus additional care givers and volunteer servers who distributed cups of gumbo, rice and potato salad, as well as bottled water.
JDPSO participates in Ag Safety Day
The Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) participated in the second annual Ag Safety Day, hosted by Louisiana Farm Bureau Insurance Agent Barry Bush. Ag Safety Day was held at the Doise Farm in Elton and featured several stations provided by local agencies, businesses and groups on various safety demonstrations for students from each parish school who are involved in agri-science classes.
Commander Douglas Britnell spoke to groups of students about hunting and firearm safety, as well as ATV safety.
JDPSO recognizes agency veterans
In honor of Veteran’s Day 2018, members of the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) were recognized for their service to their country.
Charles Sonnier |
Lloyd Lepretre |
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Michael Gary |
Ramby Cormier |
| U.S. Marine – 1954-57 - Sgt. - Battalion supply at Paris Island South Carolina. | U.S. Navy – 1963-66 – EN4 3rd Class Petty Officer aboard the USS Newell 322, served 22 mo. in Vietnam. | U.S. Navy VT24 – 1970–71 – E3 AZ Administration | US Nat. Guard - 1971–84 - E6 Platoon Sgt. | U.S. Army 1984-88 – Sgt. – Intelligence Annalist |
| U.S. Army – 1988-93 – E4 Military Occupational Specialist (MOS) Patient Admin. |
U.S. Army National Guard – 1995–2005 – Staff Sgt. Infantry Division |
U.S. Army – 2003-14 – Crpl. – Infantry |
U.S. Army National Guard - 2013-18. Supply specialist of Unit Charlie Company; 3rd Battalion 3156; Infantry. |
JDPSO hosts annual Thanksgiving luncheon
For over 20 years, the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office has been hosting the annual Thanksgiving Luncheon for members of the agency, as well as courthouse employees and area attorneys. This year’s luncheon also served as an open house event for the new main office location on La. Hwy. 90.
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Guests enjoyed a traditional Thanksgiving meal before touring the Sheriff’s Office new facility. |
JDPSO holds Active Shooter Exercise
For the second year in a row, the Sheriff’s Office held an extensive active shooter exercise with other area agencies. Last year, JDPSO coordinated with the Jennings Police Department (JPD). This year's exercise included members of JPD, as well as members of the Jennings Fire Department (JFD) and the Evangeline Fire Department (EFD).
In the event of a real active shooter situation, multiple agencies from the surrounding areas, including first responders, would normally be working together to recognize and neutralize threats, while also evacuating and treating victims, so it’s only natural to include other agencies when practicing this type of exercise.
The exercise, led by Commander Douglas Britnell, was held at the Jennings Elementary School, over the course of two Saturdays in November. Participants ran practice drills before the exercise, which involved simulations of an active shooter situation. They were to locate the threat, neutralize the threat, then accompany first responders to remove victims from the building.
Sheriff supports 4-H cooking contest program
In support of the recent 4-H Junior Leaders Annual Cookery Contest, Sheriff Ivy Woods participated in the judging portion of several dishes prepared by local 4-H members.
JDPSO participates in COA Annual Christmas Party
In support of the Jefferson Davis Parish Council on Aging (COA), the Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office (JDPSO) was on hand to aid in dispersing door prizes, meals and bottles of water, while also providing parking lot security, singing along to Christmas Carols, presenting raffle items and even playing Santa.
JDPSO invited to participate in LSP Shop with a Cop Program
In honor of Master Trooper Scott O’Connell, Louisiana State Police (LSP) Troop D held their Third Annual Shop with a Cop Christmas shopping spree for area children. The Shop with a Cop Program is partially funded by the Louisiana State Trooper Association Troop D, along with support from various other anonymous donors and benefactors.
This year, JDPSO Deputies, as well as members of the Welsh Police Department, were invited to be a part of the shopping event. JDPSO Assistant Shift Supervisor Brant Duplechain and Deputy Trey Herndon joined area Troopers Jarett Dobson, Kevin Fontenot, Mike Davis Shaune Menard and Tim Guinn along with WPD Chief Marcus Crochet and Officer Justin Olmsted.
JDPSO, Jennings Optimist Club hold Annual Mock Arrest
The Jefferson Davis Parish Sheriff’s Office teamed up with the Jennings Optimist Club once again for the annual mock arrest holiday tradition.
During each Christmas season, JDPSO seeks an out of state traveler on their way through Jennings to participate in the social community project to promote local attractions and hospitality and spread holiday cheer.
This year, the Jones family, of Humble, Texas, was encountered while making a pit stop near the Interstate in Jennings and invited to participate in the mock arrest project. Harold, a retired truck driver, and Demetria, a computer analyst at Houston Community College, were on their way to visit her brother in Orlando, Florida, when they were waylaid from their journey.
The couple was “arrested” by JDPSO Deputies Gale Richard, Tiffany Bertrand and Aubrey Broussard, as they attempted to high-tail it out of Jennings after refueling, with no intention of visiting any of the local sights, shops or museums. They were then escorted to the Jennings Immanuel Lutheran Church where Judge Daniel Stretcher lead trial proceedings, and Sheriff Ivy Woods and Chief Deputy Chris Ivey oversaw the peace during the trial. Jefferson Davis Parish Assistant District Attorney Stacey Naquin lead the prosecution, and Attorney Derek Bisig defended the Jones family.
| Ultimately, although the travelers were found guilty of attempting to pass through the City of Jennings without stopping to enjoy the attractions, they were acquitted of all charges. The Jones’ expressed sincere remorse for their actions and made a solemn vow to never bypass Jennings again. |
After the trial, their punishment was dispensed in the form of warm hospitality, a lunch of hot gumbo, complete with rice and potato salad, followed by a presentation of gifts and souvenirs from various local vendors, stores, shops and attractions.
The Jones’ were released to continue their travels, but not before they promised to return and take full advantage of all there was to enjoy in Jefferson Davis Parish.