The Louisiana Legislature passed SB 121 Thursday, sending a new congressional map to Governor Jeff Landry for his signature following months of debate prompted by a U.S. Supreme Court ruling that struck down the state’s previous district lines.

The Supreme Court’s decision in Louisiana v. Callais found that the previous map unconstitutionally prioritized race over traditional redistricting principles such as compactness and communities of interest. The new map was drawn without race as the predominant factor in determining district boundaries.

The legislation creates five Republican-leaning congressional districts statewide. A review of the enacted map shows that some parishes are split between congressional districts. 

For Caddo and Bossier parishes, both remain unified within the Fourth Congressional District alongside De Soto, Red River, Natchitoches, Sabine, Webster, Claiborne, and Bienville parishes. Central Louisiana, including Rapides Parish, is kept whole within the Fifth Congressional District.

The map now heads to the Governor for signature. If signed, it will govern Louisiana’s congressional representation through the remainder of the decade.

The Shreveport-Bossier Journal will continue to monitor developments.

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The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office is encouraging individuals interested in a career in law enforcement to apply as the department prepares for its next employment testing session.

According to the Sheriff’s Office, the next testing date for applicants will be held Saturday, June 6, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. at the DeSoto Sheriff Training Center located at 120 Sprocket Lane in Grand Cane.

Sheriff’s Office officials say the hiring process is designed to identify qualified candidates who are committed to serving the citizens of DeSoto Parish with “pride, compassion, honesty, and integrity.”

The department noted that while the hiring process is demanding, it offers long-term rewards for applicants seeking a stable career with competitive pay, strong benefits, and a supportive team environment.

Applicants should expect to complete several phases during the hiring process, including a written examination, extensive background investigation, oral interview, medical evaluation, and — for enforcement positions — a physical fitness assessment.

Officials emphasized that all applicants must complete and submit an online application prior to the testing date in order to qualify for participation in the June 6 testing session.

The Sheriff’s Office encourages anyone interested in joining the department to complete an application through the available entry-level position listings on the agency’s employment website before the deadline.

DPSO leaders say maintaining high hiring standards remains a priority as the department continues its mission of providing professional law enforcement services throughout DeSoto Parish.

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Emergency crews responded Tuesday night after a fire broke out inside the DeSoto Parish Detention Center in Mansfield.

According to the City of Mansfield, the fire originated from a dryer inside the facility. Officials say the detention center’s fire sprinkler system activated immediately and successfully extinguished the fire as designed.

The Mansfield Fire Department responded to the scene and suited up to ensure the fire did not spread or cause additional damage inside the facility.

As a precaution, inmates were relocated away from the affected area to help prevent smoke inhalation-related illnesses while firefighters worked to secure the scene.

City officials stated that the Mansfield Fire Department will remain on fire watch throughout the night as an added safety measure.

At this time, no major injuries have been reported, and authorities say the sprinkler system played a critical role in quickly controlling the situation before widespread damage could occur.

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Residents across DeSoto Parish should prepare for several days of wet weather as showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue through the remainder of the week, according to the latest forecast from the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say rain chances will remain elevated beginning Wednesday, with widespread showers and thunderstorms expected throughout the day. High temperatures are forecast to reach near 82 degrees with light southerly winds around 5 mph. The chance of precipitation stands at 90 percent.

Rain and storm activity are expected to continue Wednesday night under cloudy skies, with overnight lows falling to around 69 degrees. Forecasters place the chance of rainfall Wednesday night at 70 percent.

Additional rounds of showers and thunderstorms are likely Thursday, particularly during the afternoon hours after 1 p.m. Thursday’s high temperature is expected to climb near 83 degrees under mostly cloudy conditions.

Scattered thunderstorms may linger Thursday night with lows remaining around 69 degrees.

The unsettled weather pattern is forecast to continue Friday, with additional showers and thunderstorms likely developing during the afternoon and evening hours. High temperatures are expected to reach around 85 degrees with a 60 percent chance of rainfall.

Conditions may begin to improve slightly heading into the weekend. Saturday currently carries a 30 percent chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms with mostly sunny skies and highs near 86 degrees.

Emergency officials encourage residents to remain weather aware throughout the week, especially during thunderstorms capable of producing lightning, heavy rainfall, and gusty winds.

Motorists are also urged to use caution during periods of heavy rain and avoid driving through flooded roadways or areas with standing water.

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The Louisiana Department of Health announced Friday that beginning May 26, state SNAP recipients will only be able to use their Electronic Benefit Transfer cards for purchases made within Louisiana and in ZIP codes adjacent to the state’s border.

Department officials said the policy change aims to protect benefits from fraud and out-of-state use while ensuring Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program dollars support Louisiana grocers, farmers, businesses and local communities.

EBT cardholders who shop at Louisiana stores and through approved online retailers will not be affected. Residents who regularly shop just across the state line in Texas, Mississippi and Arkansas will experience little to no disruption, as many of those border ZIP codes are included under the policy’s approved designation. Out-of-state purchases attempted outside of the approved areas will be blocked.

SNAP recipients who are traveling and need temporary access to make purchases outside of Louisiana can request a short-term exemption online at lifeincheckebt.com, by calling 888-524-3578, or by visiting a local department SNAP office.

Any temporary out-of-state access will automatically expire at the beginning of the following month, returning the card to the default setting.

For more information and a full list of approved border-area ZIP codes, residents can visit ldh.la.gov/page/electronic-benefits-transfer-ebt.

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As the 2025-2026 school year comes to a close, DeSoto Parish Schools is celebrating a year filled with academic achievement, student success, and community support across the district.

In a message to families and community members, Superintendent Clay Corley reflected on the accomplishments highlighted in the latest edition of the DeSoto Digest, praising students, staff, and community partners for continuing to make a positive impact throughout the parish.

Corley noted significant academic progress during the school year, including a 10-point gain in early literacy scores. According to district leaders, 80 percent of DeSoto Parish students in kindergarten through third grade are now reading at or above grade level.

The district also highlighted several hands-on learning opportunities that connected classroom instruction with real-world experiences. Among those projects was the development of a greenhouse and orchard at North DeSoto High School, where students are learning responsibility, agriculture, and valuable trade skills through practical application.

Athletic accomplishments were also recognized, including the Lady Griffin softball team earning the LHSAA State Championship title. District officials additionally congratulated the Class of 2026 as graduates prepare to begin the next chapter of their lives.

The district also honored employees and community leaders who contributed to the success of local schools. Officials reflected on the May 8 dedication of the Heith Parker Facilities and Operations Building, describing it as a meaningful tribute to a leader whose service left a lasting impact on the school system.

Superintendent Corley also expressed appreciation to community partners who support initiatives such as the Employees of the Month program and the DOVE Dash fundraiser, both of which help provide opportunities and experiences for students throughout the district.

Looking ahead to the 2026-2027 school year, DeSoto Parish Schools announced plans to transition to JCampus Connect as the district’s primary parent-teacher communication platform. The new system will allow families to access grades, attendance, assignments, school notifications, and direct communication with teachers in one centralized location.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to download the JCampus Student App ahead of the upcoming school year to stay connected with their child’s school and academic progress.

Corley concluded by thanking students, teachers, staff members, families, and community supporters for helping make the school year a success and encouraged everyone to enjoy a well-deserved summer break before returning in August.

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Students in the North DeSoto Middle School Beginning Griffin Band are returning home with another major accomplishment after earning top honors during a recent performance trip to Arkansas.

According to school officials, the Beginning Griffin Band participated in the Magic Springs Music Festival in Hot Springs, Arkansas, where the group received its second Superior rating and trophy of the school year.

The achievement marks another successful performance season for the young musicians, who represented North DeSoto Middle School and the Stonewall community during the regional festival competition.

Following the competition, students celebrated their accomplishment with a visit to the Magic Springs water park and a stop at the Hibachi Buffet as part of the trip festivities.

School leaders praised the band students for their hard work, dedication, and performance throughout the year.

“Way to go, Griffins! Congratulations!” the school shared in a message recognizing the band’s achievement.

Music educators say festival competitions provide students with valuable performance experience while helping build confidence, teamwork, discipline, and musical growth.

The Superior rating continues a successful year for North DeSoto Middle School’s band program as students and directors continue representing DeSoto Parish with excellence both on and off the stage.

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DeSoto Parish Schools is celebrating one of its educators after North DeSoto Upper Elementary teacher Hillary Severin was named a finalist for the 2027 Louisiana Teacher of the Year award by the Louisiana Department of Education.

Mrs. Severin, a fifth-grade math teacher at North DeSoto Upper Elementary, was recognized for her dedication to student achievement, innovative teaching practices, and leadership both inside and outside the classroom.

Superintendent Clay Corley praised Severin’s impact on students and the district, calling her a reflection of the “DeSoto Difference.”

“Hillary Severin is a perfect example of the DeSoto Difference in action,” Corley said. “By pairing high expectations with a genuine care for her students, she exemplifies the very best of our district’s core values. We are thrilled to see her dedication to student success recognized at the state level.”

Severin brings more than 12 years of experience in mathematics education and currently serves not only as a fifth-grade math teacher, but also as a mentor teacher at North DeSoto Upper Elementary.

District leaders say she is known for her student-centered teaching style, reflective instructional practices, and use of data-driven strategies designed to help all students grow academically. She also focuses on building confidence, equity, and critical thinking skills among her students.

In addition to classroom instruction, Severin serves on her school’s leadership team and supports fellow educators through mentoring and collaboration efforts.

“Congratulations to Mrs. Severin on being selected as a Teacher of the Year finalist,” said Executive Master Teacher Lainee Cosby. “Her passion, dedication, and commitment to student success continue to inspire our entire district, and we are proud to celebrate this well-deserved achievement.”

Severin earned her bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education from Northwestern State University and also holds a Mentor Teacher Certification from the National Institute for Excellence in Teaching, along with a numeracy instruction certificate from the Louisiana Department of Education.

Outside the classroom, district officials noted Severin’s commitment to serving the community as a certified foster parent, supporting children and families beyond her role as an educator

“I’m incredibly honored to be named a finalist for State Teacher of the Year,” Severin said. “This recognition is truly a reflection of my students, who inspire me every day, and the incredible colleagues and mentors who continually support and challenge me to grow as an educator.”

All Louisiana Teacher and Principal of the Year finalists and semifinalists will be recognized during the 20th Annual Cecil J. Picard Educator Excellence Gala on July 25, 2026, at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. Overall and division-level winners will be announced during the event.

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The North DeSoto Wrestling program is inviting golfers and community supporters to take part in its 6th Annual North DeSoto Wrestling Golf Tournament this summer at Crooked Hollow Golf Course in Greenwood.

The fundraiser is scheduled for Saturday, July 11, 2026, and will feature a four-man scramble tournament format designed to support the North DeSoto wrestling program and its student-athletes.

According to event organizers, registration will open at 7:30 a.m., followed by warmups at 8:00 a.m. The tournament’s shotgun start is scheduled for 9:00 a.m.

The event will be held at Crooked Hollow Golf Course, located at 8667 Elysian Fields Road in Greenwood.

Tournament entry is $500 per team or $125 per individual player. Organizers say each team will receive two golf carts, and lunch will be provided for participants.

Awards will be presented to the top three teams, while additional raffle prizes and individual contests will also be featured throughout the day. Special individual competitions will include longest drive, closest to the hole, and hole-in-one challenges.

The annual tournament serves as one of the wrestling program’s major fundraising events and helps support equipment, travel, training, and other needs for student-athletes throughout the year.

Community members, local businesses, and golf enthusiasts are encouraged to participate and show support for North DeSoto athletics.

For additional information about the tournament or team registration, individuals may contact Coach Burton at 318-617-6188.

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The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) has announced that applications are now available for the 2026 commercial alligator lottery harvest season, which will begin Aug. 26 across designated wildlife management areas, public lakes, and federal property locations throughout the state.

According to LDWF, the commercial alligator lottery harvests will take place on 23 Wildlife Management Areas (WMAs), 28 public lakes, and one U.S. Army Corps of Engineers property.

Officials say applications must be submitted by June 15, 2026.

LDWF emphasized that this program is the state’s longstanding commercial alligator lottery harvest and is separate from the recently adopted recreational alligator lottery program, which will feature a different application process expected to open later this year.

Eligible applicants must be Louisiana residents who are at least 16 years old. Participants may submit one application per customer and may rank up to three preferred hunting areas on their application.

The application fee is $5, along with a $3.50 transaction fee. Hunters selected through the lottery process will also be required to purchase a $25 alligator hunter license and pay $40 for each alligator tag allocated.

To assist applicants in selecting hunting locations, LDWF has made additional resources available online, including area maps, contact information for WMAs and public lakes, and statistics showing 2025 first-choice selection percentages for each location.

The department encourages interested applicants to review the available information carefully before applying.

For additional information regarding commercial lottery alligator harvests on WMAs and public lakes, residents may contact their local LDWF Field Office or email LAalligatorprogram@wlf.la.gov.

Applications and additional program information are available through the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries website.

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The biggest, most star-studded and fun-filled party of every summer for miles around is coming your way in a month.

Three days of festivities are approaching beginning Thursday, June 25 through Saturday, June 27 for the 2026 Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Induction Celebration in Natchitoches.

The LSHOF’s Class of 2026 will be enshrined Saturday night, June 27 at the Natchitoches Events Center to culminate the 67^th Induction Celebration.

The Induction Celebration will kick off Thursday, June 25, with the Welcome Reception from 5-7 p.m., free to the public at the Hall of Fame museum at 800 Front Street.

The Friday, June 26 schedule begins with the Celebrity Bowling Bash presented by BOM at Four Seasons Bowling Center in Alexandria. The 2026 Rockin’ River Fest, a free concert on the downtown riverbank stage, begins at 6 p.m. and runs until 10:30. In conjunction with the Rockin’ River Fest is the VIP Taste of Tailgating party, a ticketed indoor-outdoor event.

The slate on Saturday, June 27 kicks off with the free LSHOF Junior Training Camp led by community relations personnel from the New Orleans Saints and Pelicans, along with Northwestern State coaches and this year’s Hall of Fame inductees, on the NSU campus at the Webb Wellness and Recreation Center and Turpin Stadium. This event is presented by Natchitoches Regional Medical Center and is nearing capacity. Free registration for kids ages 7-16 is required and can be easily accomplished at LaSportsHall.com.

At noon Saturday, the Round Table Luncheon presented by the Tiger Athletic Foundation is set for Riverside Reserve on Mill Street. Fox Sports broadcaster Tim Brando emcees an entertaining program.

Festivities culminate Saturday evening with the Induction Reception at the LSHOF museum beginning at 5, followed at 7 by the Induction Ceremony at the Natchitoches Events Center. Northwestern State University and State Farm Agents of Louisiana are presenting sponsors Saturday evening.

The VIP Taste of Tailgating, the Bowling Bash, the Round Table Luncheon and the Induction Reception and Ceremony are ticketed events requiring purchase in advance through LaSportsHall.com or by calling 318-238-4255.

The Thursday reception, the Friday evening River Fest and the Junior Training Camp are free.

The Class of ‘26 is headlined by a star-studded group:  Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame 2025 inductee Sylvia Fowles, NFL stars Joe Horn, Todd McClure and Pat Williams, Major League Baseball All-Star Jonathan Lucroy and legendary basketball coaches John Brady, Mike McConathy and Dewain Strother.

Alexandria native and LSU baseball hero Warren Morris will receive the Louisiana Sports Ambassador Award, earning enshrinement into the LSHOF. His walk-off home run won the 1996 College World Series for LSU and resulted in the Bolton High School product becoming a lifelong spokesman for college baseball, the CWS and LSU.

LSU graduate and New Orleans native Gil LeBreton and multi-faceted Shreveporter John James Marshall are going into the Hall as the 2026 winners of the LSWA’s Distinguished Service Award in Sports Journalism. Former Tioga girls basketball coach and nationally-acclaimed high school sports administrator Kathy Holloway is being inducted as the recipient of the Dave Dixon Louisiana Sports Leadership Award.

The Induction Celebration will be hosted by the Louisiana Sports Hall of Fame Foundation, the support organization for the Hall of Fame. The LSHOF Foundation was established as a 501 c 3 non-profit entity in 1975 and is governed by a statewide board of directors. 

For information on sponsorship opportunities and other participation, contact Foundation President/CEO Ronnie Rantz at 225-802-6040 or RonnieRantz@LaSportsHall.com, or Greg Burke, Director of Business Development and Public Relations, at 318-663-5459 or GregBurke@LaSportsHall.com via email.

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Nothing is harder to swallow than when a younger athlete comes along and replaces the older, more experienced player. Egos are shattered and feelings are sometimes hurt. No athlete likes to be put out to pasture. But in today’s bass fishing universe, that’s exactly what’s happening.

To say the young guns of bass fishing have arrived would be an understatement! No matter what sport you play, there comes a day when someone wants to take your spot. They respect you because of your experience and time you’ve given to the game, but they are the ones pushing you out of the sport you love. 

Today, a younger generation is making its mark on the sport of tournament bass fishing by utterly dominating tournaments with catches that no one has ever seen before. This past month a young buck, Andrew Rickman, 24 years old from Canton, Texas, made his presence felt by catching a record setting B.A.S.S. Nation record of 95 pounds,15 ounces over a three-day period.

Now to some this may not resonate, especially if you’re not familiar with tournament bass fishing. But what this young man did is nothing short of incredible! Maybe this will help you understand; he caught 15 bass over the three days and averaged over 6 pounds per fish — something that has never been done before in tournament competition. 

What makes this more amazing is the fact that he had never seen, let alone fished Toledo Bend in his entire life! Most anglers could add up three years of tournament catches and not even come close to 95 pounds of bass. This kid did it in three days with zero experience on the lake!

It’s just another testament to how good so many of these young anglers are. They are doing things and catching fish in ways the older generation of anglers have never dreamed about. 

One thing that is very noticeable about the young anglers of today; they spend a tremendous amount of time on the water learning new techniques and studying their electronic units like Forward-Facing Sonar so they can get better.

So many of these young anglers (due to forward-facing sonar) have been unfairly labeled as “scopers only.” But it’s a little unfair to put a blanket label over all of them because so many have been raised with old-school techniques and can catch bass with or without Forward Facing Sonar.  

To put a bow on this topic, if changes or FFS restrictions are not made with regards to bass tournaments, I highly suggest that the older anglers spend more time on the water learning how to use FFS during the off season and spend less time in the deer stand if they want to be competitive with the young guns that are on the rise in the bass tournament world. 

Contact Steve at sgraf26@yahoo.com

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I’m about to tell you something no preacher has ever told you. You may want to sit down. You may want to brace yourself. You may want to alert the denominational office, because if this leaks out, it could change the face of Christianity as we know it.

Ready?

It is holy, righteous, and perfectly acceptable for you to say “No.”

Not “no” to sin—we already know that one. I’m talking about a radical, countercultural, spiritually liberating “no” to good things. To church things. To “we’vealwaysdoneitthisway” things. To “we need a warm body on this committee” things.

You no longer have to say, “Let me pray about it,” when you already know the Holy Spirit is whispering, “Child… absolutely not.”

You have permission—pastoral, biblical, Christcentered permission—to use the word “no” freely, joyfully, and without guilt.

We live in a culture that treats “no” like a fourletter word. We’re so polite, so conflictavoidant, so eager to be liked, that we twist ourselves into pretzels trying to find “winwin” solutions.

Meanwhile, our souls are running on fumes.

Jesus Himself said “no” all the time. He said “no” to crowds who wanted Him to stay. “No” to disciples who wanted Him to skip the cross. “No” to temptations that promised shortcuts.

If the Son of God could say “no” without guilt, surely His followers can too.

This revelation hit me while changing the air filters at the house. We have two units, which means two filters, which means two opportunities for sanctification.

I went to the discount store, the only place in Ruston that carries my size—and brought home the filters. When I unwrapped them, I noticed something odd.

Let me pause here.

Why is everything wrapped in plastic?  Who decided my air filter needed to be hermetically sealed like it was going on a space mission? Why is my chewing gum wrapped like it’s a national security threat?

Somewhere, a committee met, and not one brave soul stood up and said, “No. Wrapping an air filter in plastic is dumb.”

Back to the filter.

Under the plastic was a sheet titled, “Getting to Know Your Filter.” I’m sorry… what? I don’t want a relationship with my filter. I don’t need to know its hopes, dreams, or how many microns it filters. If you’re out there reading airfilter biographies, I say this with love: get a hobby.

So I said “no.” I refused to “get to know my filter.” And it felt good.

“No” creates margin. “No” creates Sabbath. “No” creates space for the things Jesus actually calls you to do.

We are exhausted not because God has overburdened us, but because we have said “yes” to things He never asked us to carry.

When you say “no” to the unnecessary, you say “yes” to: peace, presence, prayer, people and purpose.

You say “yes” to following Jesus instead of following expectations.

The cross itself is God’s great “no” to everything that destroys us—and His great “yes” to everything that gives life.

When you say “no” in the right places, you’re not being selfish. You’re being faithful. You’re choosing the narrow way. You’re choosing Christ.

So hear this clearly, boldly, and with pastoral authority:

You are hereby empowered to say “no.”  Not because you’re lazy. Not because you don’t care. But because your “yes” belongs to Jesus first.

And that, my friend, is the secret that might just set the church free.

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If every disagreement turns into a critique of how you communicate, the real problem may be what you’re not resolving—here’s how to break the cycle and start working as a team.

 See what Ida says 

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The Indianapolis 500, commonly called Indy 500, is a 500-mile automobile race which has become the largest single-day spectator sporting event in the world. Since its meager beginnings in 1909, people have flocked to the track in record numbers to watch the high-speed thrills. On May 30, 1941, George “Joie” Chitwood readied his cigar-shaped racecar, the Blue Crown Spark Plug Special, for the Indianapolis 500. During qualifying, Joie bounced around the track in his racecar and had a hard time keeping his foot on the accelerator. Out of necessity, Joie used a simple strap to fix the problem. The other drivers objected to the strap because they thought it was dangerous. The heads of the AAA Drivers Association agreed and refused to allow Joie to use the strap. They only relented when Joie promised to release the strap if he thought he was going to crash. Keep in mind that the cars traveled more than 100 miles per hour. Joie did not crash that day. He came in 14th place and won $620. (The first-place winner, Floyd Davis, received $29,200.) Joie believed that using the strap helped his performance in the 1941 Indy 500, but the other drivers remained skeptical.

For decades, the general public remained skeptical as well. Carmakers often adopt equipment designed for racing cars on their vehicles. In 1949, now defunct carmaker Nash Motors offered this strap on about 40,000 of their Airflyte and Ambassador models, but over 39,000 of them were removed by dealerships at the request of the owners. In 1955, Ford offered it as an option on their vehicles, but less than 2% of buyers chose the strap. In 1958, Saab became the first carmaker to include the strap as part of their standard equipment.

Although he had nothing to do with its invention, Joie Chitwood made history that day in May 1941 because he was the first driver to wear the strap in the Indy 500. Today, all race car drivers are required to wear one. It has also become a requirement in all automobiles. At that time, the common misperception was that people were safer in a car accident if they were thrown from the wreck rather than behind held inside the vehicle. They called the strap safety belts, but we know this strap as the seat belt.

Sources:

1. Robert Tate, “The 1949 Nash was an Entirely New Postwar Design,” MotorCities National Heritage Area, October 1, 2025, accessed May 17, 2026, https://www.motorcities.org/story-of-the-week/2025/the-1949-nash-was-an-entirely-new-postwar-design.

2. “1941 Indianapolis 500 Race Results,” Indianapolis 500 Race Day Stats, accessed May 17, 2026, https://www.indianapolismotorspeedway.com/events/indy500/history/historical-stats/race-stats/race-results/1941.

3. “Joie Chitwood (SR.),” National Sprint Car Hall of Fame & Museum, accessed May 17, 2026, https://web.archive.org/web/20190619150409/https://www.sprintcarhof.com/helper_pages/FileGet.aspx?id=186.

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Mary Jo Wright
July 30, 1945 – May 21, 2026
Visitation: Wednesday, May 27 from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM at Warren Meadows Funeral Home
Services: Thursday, May 28 at 2:00 PM at the First Baptist Church of Many

DeSoto Parish Journal publishes paid obituaries – unlimited words and a photo, as well as unlimited access – $95. Contact your funeral provider or billvance.erg@gmail.com. (Notice of Deaths shown above are FREE of charge. You may email them to billvance.erg@gmail.com

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The attached report displays all individuals charged over the last 7 days, including those arrested by summons who may not have been booked directly into the Detention Center. The attached arrests have been made by DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office (DPSO), Mansfield Police Department (MPD), and Louisiana State Police (LSP.) An arrest is indication that probable cause existed during an alleged offense. All suspects are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. Comments are disabled on crime related posts to ensure public safety.

A Texas man was arrested Thursday evening after DeSoto Parish deputies allegedly discovered more than six ounces of suspected methamphetamine during a traffic stop in Logansport.

According to the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office, members of the Street Level Interdiction Unit (SLIU) conducted the traffic stop on May 14 along U.S. Highway 84.

Deputies identified the driver as 34-year-old Daniel Guin of Shelby County, Texas.

During the stop, DPSO K-9 Cholo conducted a free-air sniff around the vehicle and reportedly gave a positive alert indicating the possible presence of narcotics.

Authorities then conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle, where deputies said they located approximately 6.3 ounces of suspected methamphetamine, various items of drug paraphernalia, and a firearm.

Guin was taken into custody without incident and transported to the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office Detention Center for booking.

He faces the following charges:

Possession of Schedule II narcotics (methamphetamine) with intent to distribute

Possession of a firearm in the presence of a controlled dangerous substance

Possession of drug paraphernalia

Improper lane usage

The sheriff’s office also shared comments from a Logansport resident who witnessed part of the incident and praised deputies for their response.

“Shout out to the DPSO Team,” the resident wrote. “Traveling down Hwy 5 yesterday and a dark car passed me and three other cars, flying, in a no passing zone. I was hoping all the way to Logansport that a State Trooper or a Deputy would catch him.”

The witness added that multiple deputies had stopped the vehicle near the Family Dollar store in Logansport.

“Thank you DPSO for keeping us safe,” the resident stated.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office noted that an arrest indicates probable cause existed during the investigation and that all individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law..

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A recount of absentee-by-mail and early voting ballots in the Mansfield mayoral race has been scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026, at the DeSoto Parish Courthouse in Mansfield.

According to a notice issued by the DeSoto Parish Clerk of Court, the recount will begin at 10:00 a.m. at the courthouse located at 101 Texas Street.

Officials stated that Curtis McCoy, a candidate for Mayor of Mansfield, formally requested the recount following the recent election.

The recount will involve absentee-by-mail and early voting ballots only. Parish officials noted that the process will be conducted as an open meeting in accordance with Louisiana Open Meetings laws, allowing public access while maintaining strict procedures for ballot handling.

The Clerk of Court’s office emphasized that only authorized individuals — including Parish Board representatives, registrars and their personnel, Secretary of State support staff, and commissioners involved in the recount — will be permitted to handle ballots during the process.

In addition, all existing security measures and courthouse orders for the 42nd Judicial District Courthouse will remain in effect throughout the recount proceedings. Officials stated that all persons entering the courthouse will be subject to search.

The recount comes as election officials continue to finalize results in the closely watched Mansfield mayoral contest.

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Residents across DeSoto Parish should prepare for several days of wet and stormy weather as showers and thunderstorms are expected to continue through the Memorial Day holiday weekend, according to the National Weather Service.

Forecasters say rain chances will remain high from Wednesday through Monday, with multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms forecast across the parish.

Wednesday’s forecast calls for a chance of showers and thunderstorms during the morning hours, followed by more widespread rain and storm activity later in the afternoon and evening. Skies are expected to remain partly sunny with a high near 84 degrees. Light east winds around 5 mph are forecast during the afternoon. Rain chances are set at 70 percent, with possible rainfall totals between one-quarter and one-half inch.

Wednesday night will remain mostly cloudy with showers and thunderstorms likely continuing through the evening and overnight hours. Overnight lows are expected near 69 degrees.

Thursday’s weather is expected to become increasingly active, with a 90 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms after 1 p.m. High temperatures are forecast near 82 degrees with light south winds around 5 mph.

Showers and possible thunderstorms are expected to continue Thursday night with lows around 70 degrees and a 90 percent chance of rain.

Friday’s forecast remains wet, with showers and thunderstorms likely throughout the day and highs near 81 degrees. Rain chances remain elevated at 80 percent. Additional showers and storms are expected Friday night under mostly cloudy skies.

The unsettled weather pattern is expected to continue through the weekend. Saturday carries a 70 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms with highs near 83 degrees, while Sunday’s forecast includes a 90 percent chance of rain and storms with highs near 80 degrees.

Memorial Day itself is expected to remain mostly cloudy with a 60 percent chance of showers and thunderstorms and highs near 83 degrees.

Meteorologists encourage residents planning outdoor activities, graduation celebrations, travel, or Memorial Day gatherings to closely monitor local weather conditions and remain alert for possible thunderstorms throughout the extended holiday weekend.

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Students at Joaquin High School received an up-close look at modern law enforcement operations this week as the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office visited the campus with several of its specialized divisions and equipment.

The educational outreach event gave students from elementary through middle school the opportunity to interact with deputies and explore many of the tools used by DPSO in daily operations.

Among the featured equipment and demonstrations were the department’s new helicopter and drone from the Aviation Division, the Hydratrek Amphibious Vehicle and boat from the Marine Division, the DPSO Command Center, the Traffic Division Mustang, the SWAT Division BearCat, and a live K9 demonstration.

Deputies also allowed students to climb inside vehicles, ask questions, and learn how the equipment is used in real-world law enforcement situations.

Officials with the sheriff’s office said the event was designed to strengthen positive relationships with young people while helping students better understand the many responsibilities carried out by law enforcement agencies.

“One of the best parts of the morning was allowing students to not only ask questions, but also climb inside, explore, and interact with the equipment and deputies who use it in real-world situations,” the department shared in a statement.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office also thanked the administration and staff at Joaquin High School for hosting the visit and providing an opportunity to engage with students.

The outreach event reflects ongoing efforts by DPSO to connect with communities and educate young people about public safety, teamwork, and careers in law enforcement.

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Mansfield High School is inviting families and community members to attend Academic Expo 2026, a campus-wide showcase celebrating student achievement, leadership, and opportunity.

The event is scheduled for Thursday, May 21, beginning at 4 p.m. at Mansfield High School.

This year’s theme, “Take Flight to Success,” will highlight the many academic, athletic, artistic, and extracurricular programs available to students at the school.

Organizers say attendees will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of student organizations, academic programs, athletic teams, clubs, fine arts activities, and other campus opportunities that help support student growth and achievement.

School officials described the expo as a chance for the community to see firsthand the hard work and accomplishments of Mansfield High School students.

“Come out and explore everything our school has to offer,” the school shared in its announcement. “Our students are taking off toward success in every direction.”

The event will also provide families with an opportunity to learn more about programs and resources available to students while celebrating the talents and leadership displayed throughout the school year.

Mansfield High School encouraged residents, parents, and supporters to attend the event and help recognize the future of the Wolverines community.

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Louisiana has emerged as a national leader in academic recovery, becoming the only state in the country to surpass its 2019 pre-pandemic reading benchmarks. According to the latest Education Scorecard, a collaborative report from Harvard, Stanford, and Dartmouth, Louisiana also ranks 3rd in the nation for academic growth in math.

The report, which combines state test results from 35 million students nationwide with national assessment data, provides a high-resolution look at the state’s educational landscape between 2022 and 2025.

Key Statewide Findings:

• Reading Leadership: Louisiana is the only state in the nation where students are performing above pre-pandemic levels in reading (+.29 grade equivalents over 2019).

• Math Growth: Louisiana is one of only two states performing above 2019 math levels, ranking 3rd out of 38 states in growth.

• Economic Impact: Gains in high-poverty districts were largely driven by federal pandemic relief (ESSER) funds, which provided roughly $6,000 per student.

• Challenges Ahead: Chronic absenteeism remains a significant hurdle, rising from 18.8% in 2022 to 22% in 2025.

Based on the latest reports from the Educational Opportunity Project at Stanford and Harvard universities, here is the academic and attendance summary for DeSoto Parish:

Overall Academic Performance (2022–2025)

• Test Scores: Students in DeSoto Parish performed 0.01 grade levels above the 2019 national average. This places the district significantly higher than the Louisiana state average of -0.70.
• Performance Trends: Test scores have been improving at a rate of +0.13 grade levels per year since 2022. This growth is more than double the statewide average trend of +0.06.
• National Rankings: DeSoto Parish ranks in the 45th percentile for math and the 75th percentile for reading performance nationwide.

Learning Rates (School Quality Indicator)

Learning rates measure how much students’ scores improve as they progress from grade to grade, providing a strong indicator of school quality.

• Annual Growth: Students in DeSoto Parish learned an average of 1.10 grade levels per year during the 2022–2025 period.
• National Standing: This learning rate is higher than 80% of districts nationwide. It also exceeds the national average learning rate of 1.0 and the Louisiana state average of 0.97.

Student Subgroup Trends

• Economic Progress: Students from low-income families performed 1.06 grade levels below the 2019 national average but are showing strong recovery with a growth trend of +0.12 grade levels per year.
• Race/Ethnicity: Both White (+0.12) and Black (+0.16) students in the parish are showing positive annual growth in test scores. White students performed 0.95 grade levels above the national average, while Black students performed 1.46 grade levels below it.
• Gender: Female students (0.20) currently outperform male students (-0.16) relative to the 2019 national average.

Chronic Absenteeism

• Rising Rates: The average chronic absenteeism rate in DeSoto Parish was 17.3% between 2022 and 2025.
• Long-term Change: This represents a 2.8 percentage point increase from the 2017–2019 pre-pandemic average of 14.5%.
• Regional Context: Despite the increase, DeSoto’s absenteeism rate remains lower than both the state average (21.8%) and the average for similar districts (21.0%).

While the “learning recession” of the last decade has been severe, the recovery has officially begun in Louisiana. Harvard Professor Tom Kane, faculty director of the Center for Education Policy Research, noted that while a small group of state leaders have started “digging out” by changing how students learn to read, the work must continue.

With federal relief funds expiring, the report suggests Louisiana focus future school improvement dollars on middle- and higher-poverty districts that still trail their pre-pandemic levels.

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