Local News 

Sheriff David Hedrick    See our CPSO Facebook page at www.facebook.com/CPsheriff.

Adams County deputies are looking for Jolie Eadie, who failed to pay for services at a Natchez business. If you know of her whereabouts, call deputies ay 601-552-2752.

Eola Hotel

Consultant Hayes Dent says planning continues on the Eola Hotel project. He said Virginia attorney Robert Lubin continues, with others, to push the project along. The hotel will take advantage of EB-5 provisions in US law to secure foreign investors. Some of the money used will come from those investors, and some money will be borrowed. He did not want to say how much the project will cost in the end, but when $25 million was mentioned as a price tag, he said the hotel renovations and what’s already invested would be more than that. The project will also take advantage of historic tax credits and new market tax credits as part of its financing package. Dent added that Lubin and friends will probably announce the management team and the hotel’s national affiliation in July. Dent said there’s no firm timeline yet when construction will start, as there still raising money and determining the amount that needs to be borrowed. Additionally, they need to get a new and firm cost on construction from the contractor. While they have a general idea of how much they believe it will cost, they need to get a bid on the exact amount and enter into a formal contract to build the hotel at that set amount. The City of Natchez has promised to help the Eola succeed.It has notified tenants of the Fry Building that it’s time to vacate. The City plans to demolish the building and turn the Fry site into a parking lot for hotel visitors and the general public. At one time, the mayor and aldermen discussed actually investing in the hotel project directly. The city has the legal ability to allow Eola to use the hotel's sales taxes and property taxes generated to be used toward payment of debt (tax increment financing) like the City did for Country Inn and Suites/Natchez Grand Hotel.  

The US Department of Justice is expected to sue the Concordia Parish School Board over the alleged failure of the local schools to desegregate. Concordia had initially agreed to a DOJ compromise that would move Vidalia students to Ferriday. But parents and citizens spoke out of the local public meeting and the school board voted to ditch the settlement agreement with the federal government.  The State of Louisiana Attorney General’s Office continues to say it will help Concordia defend if and when DOJ takes action. The school board went into an executive session at a recent meeting to discuss its case, but school board members did not say anything publicly about what was discussed nor did they go on the record with the statement for the minutes.

Ferriday’s sewer system had broken down due to failing sewer pumps. Mayor Alvin Garrison was able to find a few replacement pumps in Ohio that would work with the mechanics of the current system. The pumps have been installed and the system is now operating once again. Ferriday has received a $19.5 million grant for a major sewer system overhaul. That project should be bid in August.   

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Bude fireworks

For the fourth year in a row, the Franklin County Baptist Association will host a Fourth of July Fireworks Show at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. The festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4 with ice cream being served from the Association office. The fireworks will begin about 9 p.m. Officials are asking for donations from businesses and individuals to help cover the cost of the fireworks. The goal is to raise $5,000 to cover the cost of the show. Anyone wishing to make a donation, or for more information, can contact Wes Arnold at 318-230- 0626. 

Adams deputies arrested Corey Rice, 39, of Natchez, for aggravated assault. He is currently being held in jail. He has previous felony convictions for possession of cocaine and felon in possession of a weapon. 

On June 30, at approximately 4:54 p.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a two-vehicle crash on Louisiana Highway 425 at Grayson Road. The crash claimed the life of 43-year-old Joshua Boies of Wisner. The initial investigation revealed that a 2022 Ford F-150 and a 2010 Toyota Corolla, driven by Boies, were northbound on Louisiana Highway 425. For reasons still under investigation, Boies failed to slow down and rear-ended the Ford F-150. As a result, the Corolla exited the roadway and overturned. This action ejected Boies from the vehicle. Boies, who was not restrained, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead. The driver of the Ford F-150, who was restrained, sustained no injuries. A toxicology sample was obtained and submitted for analysis. 

Ross brothers and Damper

Michael Ross Jr., 22, and Devin Ross, 21, were arrested in Vicksburg and charged with one murder and six attempted murders in the Fayette music festival shooting. Courtez Damper, 20, was previously arrested for the murder and shootings. Those agencies participating in the investigations and arrests include the US Marshal’s Service, the Mississippi Bureau of investigation, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department and Fayette Police Department. They accused murderers are expected to be tried in Jefferson County.

The Rev. Jimmy Swaggart, a native of Ferriday, has died at the age of 90.  He was one of the nation's leading televangelists in the 1980's. Swaggart was a first cousin to entertainers Mickey Gilley and Jerry Lee Lewis.

For the fourth year in a row, the Franklin County Baptist Association will host a Fourth of July Fireworks Show at the Franklin County Fairgrounds. The festivities will begin at 7:30 p.m. on Friday, July 4 with ice cream being served from the Association office. The fireworks will begin about 9 p.m. Officials are asking for donations from businesses and individuals to help cover the cost of the fireworks. The goal is to raise $5,000 to cover the cost of the show. Anyone wishing to make a donation, or for more information, can contact Wes Arnold at 318-230- 0626.

CATAHOULA SHERIFF'S OFFICE: 100 Pine St., Harrisonburg, 318-744-5411; CATAHOULA CORRECTIONAL CENTER, 499 Old Columbia Rd., Harrisonburg, 318-744-2121. Protecting the People and Property of Our Communities. Our deputies and investigators welcome anonymous tips. Let us know if you see a crime in progress or know of ongoing criminal activity. Sheriff Toney Edwards. The sheriff is the chief law enforcement officer for the Parish and he and his staff are responsible for: investigating crimes, making arrests, enforcing traffic regulations on parish roads, serving writs, collection and distribution of court fines, tax collection, communicating with other law enforcement agencies, operating the correctional center and other duties authorized by the State of Louisiana. 

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Slight dip in jobs

Adams County has 10,180 people with jobs, down 10 jobs from a year ago. The jobless rate is 5%. 

Taurus Williams, 34, has been captured and arrested by Vidalia police and Concordia deputies on Hwy. 131 in the parish. He was wanted in Adams County for possession of and trafficking cocaine, marijuana, fentanyl and other drugs. He faces an enhancement charge for dealing near a church. Additionally, he is a felon, was in possession of a weapon and will face that additional felony charge. Also arrested in the case were two women now facing felony charges for assisting his escape, and trying to hide him from authorities. Those facing accessory after the fact charges include: Shawanda Lewis and LaKrystal Barnes. Lewis is being held in the Concordia Jail. Barnes has bonded out in Adams County. Taurus Williams is being held in Concordia. 

Adam’s deputies arrested Quiero Johnson, 36, of Natchez, for shooting into a vehicle. He is currently being held in jail. Deputies arrested Raymond Bennett, 44, of Natchez, for failure to register as a sex offender. He was convicted of child fondling in 2012 and is currently being held in jail.

Kristony Carter

Little Miss Alcorn State University Kristony Carter raised more than $2000 for the Morgantown Elementary Beta Club. She and her family will travel to Orlando, as she competes in the National Beta Club Convention.

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said work on the big sinkhole at Concordia and Elm has been delayed because of the high water table. The river is still at 47 feet and the mayor estimates the river should fall to around 40 feet before work can restart.

House Bill 1 requires a nine-cent gas tax increase over the next three years in Mississippi takes effect July 1. The nine-cent increase will not take place at all once. Instead, it will be phased in over the next three years. On July 1, the tax will increase from 18 cents per gallon to 21 cents per gallon. On July 1, 2026, the tax will increase to 24 cents per gallon, then to 27 cents per gallon on July 1, 2027. After July 1, 2029, the gas tax rate will be adjusted for inflation, rounded to the near whole cent with a maximum of one cent per gallon annually. Lawmakers and transportation officials have said the state needs more money in order to maintain and build roads and bridges across Mississippi, citing the continuing the increased costs for material and labor.

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The Lincoln Outfit

Live at Five will feature The Lincoln Outfit at the gazebo on the Natchez Bluff July 4 at 5 p.m.. Miss-Lou fireworks on the river begin at 9:30 p.m.

On June 25 at approximately 4:45 p.m., the Catahoula Parish Sheriff’s Office assisted the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office in executing a felony arrest warrant for a wanted suspect believed to be hiding in Catahoula Parish. After coordinated surveillance at a local motel, members of the Catahoula Special Response Team, Concordia SRT, Jonesville SRT, Ferriday Police, Vidalia Police, Sandy Lake Fire & Rescue, and American Medical Response met on the location. The Catahoula SRT Bearcat was utilized to issue multiple verbal commands over a public address system, instructing the suspect to exit the room peacefully. After observing movement inside the room, the suspect opened the door and was quickly taken into custody by SRT members. The suspect, identified as Donnie Sanders, initially resisted arrest but was safely apprehended without injury. He was found in possession of a handgun, illegal drugs, and drug paraphernalia. Sanders was booked into the Catahoula Parish Jail on multiple charges, including Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Felon in Possession of a Firearm with CDS, Possession of Schedule I and II Drugs, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Resisting Arrest and Fugitive from Justice (Ferriday Police Department). Bond will be set by the 7th Judicial District Judge, and Sanders will be transported to Ferriday to face additional charges.

The Concordia Parish Police Jury is getting tough on homeowners and businesses that do not keep their properties tidy. The jury has sent out a series of letters to property owners telling them to clean up or else. The else is the jury will come in and clean the property and charge the property owner $400 at a minimum. And if the bill is not paid,  the amount due is entered as a lien against the property. 

Home values

Zillow reported for Natchez. A typical home value is $120,592. Typical value one year ago was $116,204. The service forecasts a value decrease of 7.3 percent over the next year. 290 homes are for sale and 15 sold recently. 

The Silas Simmons CPA 2023 audit of the Concordia Parish Clerk of Court does show a rather large $586,000 deficit from previous years. This deficit was reduced in 2023 due to an operating surplus. However, the deficit should not be seen as mismanagement, as most of it reflects long-term liabilities for pensions and other retirement costs that will be due eventually and must be paid. For 2023 itself, the office improved its finances, with $742,000 in revenues and $696,000 in expenditures, showing a net operating surplus. The office has over $536,000 in operating cash, which is sufficient to pay its ongoing bills and act as a small reserve. The Concordia paper ran a rather alarming article, indicating there was a huge deficit which would lead people to believe there was mismanagement But it’s actually quite common for offices to have pension and other retirement liabilities that are quite large. Government has evolved over two generations to where parish employees have very attractive, retirement packages, much better than the private sector. As a result, local governments often have large pension liabilities that will be paid with future revenues. The CPA did note that the office has a small staff, and as a result, financial responsibilities are not separated or segregated as they should be. But that’s because there are so few employees. There were no negative findings as to operations, bookkeeping and accounting. The CPA noted that the office was close to budget in both forecasting its revenues and expenditures. And as a result, the budget did not need to be amended at anytime during the year. Andy Anders is the parish Clerk of Court.

Miss-Lou law enforcement shut down the bridges in Natchez-Vidalia in both east and west directions due to five loose barges that hit the northern bridge. Some of the barges continued to float downstream. The bridges were later reopened. 

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Taxes may increase

The Natchez-Adams school board holds a public hearing on Tuesday to adopt a $72.7 million school budget for the coming year. The school board is asking for more tax support from supervisors, approximately $432,000. Supervisors have the option of cutting other budget items to afford the tax increase or increasing mileage to pay for the extra money the schools want. Supervisors may have their own budget and expense increases to consider. It is possible that taxes could go up 3 to 4 mills. The new school budget starts October 1.   

Woodville Police Chief Lemuel Rutledge told the mayor and aldermen the patrol officer most recently hired has quit, and he expects another officer to resign soon. Rutledge said retention of officers is difficult because of the low pay and poor benefits compared to what other towns offer. The Chief said his department needs eight patrolmen and six radio dispatchers to operate effectively. He noted that the streets are increasingly dangerous, as there have been recent officer involved shootings in Adams, Jefferson and Pike counties. 

Three men were in the parking lot of the club, The One Way, in Centreville, when Eldred Anderson, 62, of Gloster, told Nicholas Henry and Lawarren Seiber, both of Centreville, to stop leaning on his pickup. An argument ensued. Pistols were pulled and multiple shots fired. Henry died at the scene. Seiber died at Field Health. Anderson was wounded, treated and released from Our Lady of the Lake. He was then arrested on two counts of murder and released on bond.  If you witnessed the shooting or have any information about the killings, call police at 601-645-5917.   

Building rehab

Natchez businessman Dick Thompson says he now owns the former furniture warehouse on Franklin St. in downtown Natchez. He isn’t quite sure what he will do with the building other than remodel it and bring it back to excellent condition. Thompson says the 12,500 square-foot building could be used for commercial, residential or mixed use applications. He expects to spend $2-$3 million on the project. In addition to owning Live Oak Nursery, he has invested in housing, office, commercial and other real estate investments over the years.   

Some Mississippi towns and cities had elections this spring. Those taking office July 1 will include: Woodville: Mayor Jessie Stewart; Aldermen William Carter, Meagan Spillman, Francis Bailey, Louis D’Aquilla; Centreville: Mayor Demetria Allen Hudson; Aldermen Doc Walker, Amuad Stewart, Sonny Wilson, Michelle Singleton, Iyomia Maria Montgomery.

Judge Carmen Drake held court in Wilkinson County. Michael Carpenter played guilty to assault of a jailer. He was sentenced 5 years suspended with credit for time served. He will be on formal reporting post release supervision. He was ordered to pay $682.50 in court costs and prosecution fees. He is also to pay a fine of $1000 payable to the Wilkinson County Sheriff’s investigation fund. John Joseph Barr played guilty to two counts of grand larceny. He was sentenced to five years, with three years to serve and two years suspended to be served on formal post release supervision. Barr had a pending conviction in Franklin County. He will serve all his sentences concurrently. In addition, he was ordered to pay court costs and a prosecution fee of $682.50.

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Tuition for Pre-K

Mississippi allows school districts offer six types of pre-K education based on the funding source. The Natchez district will start charging parents $250 per month per child for three and four year-old education beginning this fall. The district had offered totally free pre-K education, but the school board moved the program to fee-based when some state funding was cut.

Concordia deputies arrested Donald Walker, 48, of Ferriday, for felon in possession of a weapon and aggravated battery, domestic violence. He remains in the parish jail.

Silicon Ranch of Nashville, Tennessee, will build an 83-acre solar energy farm near Cane Creek Road and Highway 24, just west of Centreviile. The $4.75 million project will employ 100 workers during its construction phase. The farm will tie into Entergy. The company has been in business since 2011. Revenues are approaching $250 million annually. And it recently secured $500 million in investment capital for new projects.

Michel James Kelly threatens suit

Concordia District 1 Justice of the Peace Michael James Kelly faces a felony charge of malfeasance in office and theft of less than $1,000, a misdemeanor. Kelly collected money for Pay Less Loans in Jonesville but never paid the company all the money it was due. He was arrested in October by Concordia deputies. Kelly collected $2880 in judgments, but still lowed the company $1445 at the time of his arrest. His next court appearance is July 16. In 2017, he was a constable and was arrested for three counts of resisting an officer with force, criminal damage to property, simple battery and home invasion for entering a home and pushing a woman, while delivering an eviction notice. Ferriday Police Chief Richard Madison said at the time officers were called and Kelly allegedly fought them while resisting arrest. The charges were later dropped and Kelly sued Ferriday officials and town employees for damages in federal court. Editor's note: Miss-Lou Magazine asked Kelly if he would like to post additional info regarding his arrest or federal lawsuit. He has not responded. There are no false statements in this news. Arrested twice. Charges dropped first time. Hearing date coming up in July on the October 2024 arrest. Will report outcome if a resolution to the charge occurs. All those charged are considered not guilty unless they plead or are convicted. When public officials are arrested, this is news. And this particular news and the lawsuit have been previously reported by Justia, Sentinel, Democrat and Miss-Lou Magazine in 2017-2018 and 2024-2025.

The Louisiana Board of Ethics has officially closed its investigation into Sheriff Toney Edwards, clearing him of all alleged violations of the Louisiana Code of Governmental Ethics. Following a thorough review, the Board determined there was no evidence to support any of the claims made against Sheriff Edwards. Allegations included the misuse of inmate labor, unauthorized personal use of Sheriff’s Office property, and acceptance of a gift in exchange for a contract. After evaluating the findings of a confidential investigation report, the Board found these claims to be unsubstantiated. The Board confirmed that no storm shelter was ever constructed on Sheriff Edward’s property using prison labor, and personal loan documents showed that equipment allegedly misused was privately owned by Sheriff Edwards. Additionally, all Sheriff’s Office equipment was properly accounted for, and no evidence supported claims of improper gifting or influence. 

On June 17, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office responded to the area of Highway 61 North in reference to a stolen motor vehicle. Patrol Deputies learned that, during the night of June 16 or the early morning hours of June 17, a vehicle had been stolen from a parking lot in Natchez, Mississippi. Deputies were informed that the suspects involved in the theft were seen in the area of Highway 61 North near Tractor Supply. Patrol Deputies responded to that location in an effort to locate and identify the suspects, who fled on foot upon seeing law enforcement. Deputies from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office Special Operations Group responded to assist in the search. Within an hour, the suspects were apprehended. They were identified as 18-year-old Isaiah Davis of Lorman, Mississippi, and two juvenile Black males, also from Lorman. The Adams County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigation Division continued the investigation and obtained evidence linking all three suspects to the vehicle theft. Isaiah Davis was charged with Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony) and booked into the Adams County Jail. The two juveniles were also charged with Theft of a Motor Vehicle (Felony) and transported to the Adams County Juvenile Detention Facility. 

Nakia Stewart Anderson

Wilkinson County and Bridgers CPAs have been working on completing the county’s past due annual audits. The 2020 audit is finally complete and the audits for 2021, 2022 and 2023 should be completed by this fall. Chancery Clerk Nakia Stewart Anderson told supervisors the state auditor directed the county to improve its bookkeeping by correctly coding a number of accounts that were incorrectly labeled. This problem has gone on for years. Anderson said she would follow the state’s recommendations. She and her staff are working closely with the CPA and the state to improve the county’s bookkeeping and accounting.

Vidalia is repairing its sinkhole at Elm and Concordia. Mayor Buz Craft said the contractor had to temporarily stop work, because the water table is still too high.

After a slow start to the fiscal year, Natchez city sales tax collections have been picking up. The sales tax fiscal year runs July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025. The Mississippi Bureau of Revenue shares sales tax collections with cities and towns. Natchez has received $5.2 million July 2024-May 2025, compared to $5.3 million the year before. The month of June will finish the fiscal year’s collections.  Taxable retail sales are a measure of the strength of the local economy, representing the willingness of local consumers to spend money on taxable products and services. Natchez’s slight dip in collections is reflective of the mixed picture other cities in Mississippi have experienced this year. Brookhaven is up 3 percent. McComb is down 1 percent. Vicksburg is up 1 percent. Brandon is up less than 1 percent.  

Robert Galmore Jr., Anthony Owens

Adams County deputies are looking for Robert Galmore, Jr, 22, Natchez, who has outstanding warrants for burglary of a dwelling and possession of a stolen firearm. He has a history of burglary and receiving stolen goods. If you know of his whereabouts, call deputies at 601-442-2752. Adams County deputies are also looking for Anthony D Owens, 60, of Natchez, for violation of sex offender registration laws. He was convicted of aggravated criminal sexual assault in Illinois and has lived in the Natchez area for a number of years. If you know his whereabouts, call deputies at 601-442-2752. 

Adams County EMS Director Brad Bradford said he plans to go talk with Natchez aldermen to see if the city will help fund the repair of the emergency sirens that have not been working. Supervisors agreed to spend more than $50,000 to make those repairs, which will include a software upgrade.   

Adams deputies arrested Wayne Hammett, 64 of Natchez, in March, for a felony aggravated domestic violence. He was released on bond of $15,000. Now he has been arrested again, this time for aggravated assault. Bond has been set at $100,000 and he remains in jail for now. 

Fireworks cancelled

Fayette Mayor Londell “Rock” Eanochs has cancelled the July 4 fireworks celebration due to recent violence in the community.   

Barry Tyson of Franklin County was recently elected Chairman of the Copiah-Lincoln Community College Board of Trustees. Tyson was elected during the June board meeting. Randall Lofton of Lincoln County was elected Vice Chairman while Ray Brown of Copiah County was elected Secretary. Tyson has served as a trustee for the last 22 years and served as Board Secretary for the past five years.

The Concordia Parish Sheriff's Office Cyber Crime/Special Victims Unit opened an investigation on March 11 on a 39-year-old New Orleans resident, Nicholas Kyle Conable, who was communicating online with what he believed to be a 16-year-old juvenile female. Conable began communicating with the juvenile via social media, then later asked her to recruit two other juveniles to participate in sexual acts with them. His communications revealed that he was attempting to perform multiple sexual activities with all three juveniles. Conable gave a detailed description of the acts that he intended to engage in. Conable shared multiple lewd and lascivious images of himself with the juveniles. CPSO contacted the US Marshals Service, who located and arrested Conable on June 12. Conable was transported to Concordia Parish on and booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility, where he is awaiting a bond. He is charged with two counts of computer aided solicitation of a minor and 24 counts of indecent behavior with a juvenile. On June 12, during a routine screening of incoming inmate mail at the Catahoula Correctional Facility, officers discovered 32 micro sheets of suspected synthetic narcotics, commonly known as “Mojo", concealed within correspondence addressed to an inmate currently housed at the facility. The inmate now faces disciplinary action in accordance with Louisiana Department of Corrections regulations. Additionally, a warrant will be filed through the 7th Judicial District Court for the introduction of contraband and intent to distribute. This information has been shared with the Catahoula Parish Narcotics Team, who are coordinating with authorities in Tangipahoa Parish, where the mail originated, to identify the source of the contraband. 

Dick Thompson

Live Oak Nursery caught fire on Friday. Owner Dick Thompson said an employee assaulted him this week and was fired after threatening additional bodily harm to Thompson. Thompson believes the employee may have set the fire. 

Natchez Fire Chief Robert Arrington said his department is conducting an investigation surrounding the fire at Live Oak Nursery. Arrington commended the Adams County volunteers for responding to the fire. The hydrants near Live Oak did not have much water pressure. So the volunteers’ trucks were used to provide extra water to combat the fire.       

The Concordia Parish School Board has talked about hiring a full-time athletic director, even though the schools have had not had one for over a decade. But Superintendent Toyua Bachus said she wouldn’t recommend hiring an athletic director right now, because the school is running a deficit due to the construction at Ferriday High and cuts in federal funding. Now that the Biden era has officially come to a close, school boards across the country are looking at a decrease in federal funds. Concordia spent about $62 million on schools this past year, running a $3.9 million deficit. The district has enough operating funds to cover the deficit and more.   

Suzannah Hebert

Suzannah Herbert’s film, "Natchez," won top honors as a documentary and narrative film at the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival. The festival shows independent movie makers films to an international audience in New York .   

Adams deputies arrested Quanzee M. Walls, 32, of Natchez, for felony aggravated domestic violence. He remains in jail on a $150,000 bond. 

The Miss. Development Authority and Amazon are funding an Artificial Intelligence initiative with grants to colleges and universities. Alcorn State University will receive $1.15 million to train individuals in southwest Mississippi on digital literacy and artificial intelligence fundamentals. This funding will also allow for the deployment of telehealth resources through ASU’s School of Nursing to improve healthcare access to underserved, rural communities.

Tax increase likely

The Natchez-Adams School Board meets June 24 to pass a budget that starts October 1. This past year, the schools spent $88.6 million, of which $14.4 million came from local property taxes. For the coming year, the school board will cut its overall spending to $72.6 million. Special Covid and other short-term federal funds are running out. Because the school board has raised its overhead significantly in the past five years, it wants another $422,000 this coming year from supervisors. Supervisors have the option of raising taxes to give the school board the money, or they can trim their county budget, take the money from somewhere else and give it to the school board, which is unlikely. Supervisors could also cut their operating budget slightly and raise taxes slightly. But the county has lots of needs as it is. It has a large workforce payroll. The sheriff’s department and jail operations are costing more money every year to run and that budget has blown up, now around $9 million per year. Additionally, supervisors will receive requests from their department heads for extra funding, like volunteer fire, courthouse expenses, road repairs and maintenance, plus the numerous county departments. Plus, supervisors have committed approximately $1 million to pay the city for fire protection. And rural residences are already paying extra taxes for volunteer fire protection that provides little protection at all. Supervisors may also have to fund negative cash flow at the port because it is so incompetently run. The port appears ready to lose its only $600,000 a year client.

Natchez aldermen extended a Tennessee development company’s option to purchase land for a new shopping center next to Walmart for another nine months.\

Sheridff's office reports

A recent audit of the Catahoula Sheriff's Office and Correctional Center found deficit spending and the need to improve bookkeeping and accounting practices. Since the audit was released, major improvements have been made. To date for the 2024-2025 fiscal year, the Correctional Center had reduced overall spending to $9.10 million, a 17.7% drop from the previous year. Labor expenses decreased by 7.2%, and grocery spending fell sharply by 40.3%, returning to levels below those seen in 2022-2023. Fuel costs also continued to decline, dropping by 33% to just over $72,000. This was largely due to a shift in inmate housing status: with the majority now sentenced to the Department of Corrections, the need for transportation to court hearings across the state has diminished significantly. “The team at the Sheriff's Office and Correctional Center is working hard every single day to cut costs, operate responsibly, and run a facility that meets the State of Louisiana’s guidelines,” said Sheriff Toney Edwards. "We will continue to improve our services and budgeting."

Vidalia aldermen have accepted a $2.79 million bill to expand grain storage at the Vidalia Port. The town will spend another $3.4 million to build a fancy playground and splash pad at Polk Park.

Lieutenant Gov. Delbert Hosemann will be campaigning in Natchez Thursday, most likely in the company of Mayor Dan Gibson.  Hosemann had previously announced that he is running for Governor. Gibson has had warm relations with Hosemann, hoping the head of the Mississippi Senate would send more money to Natchez-Adams County. Hosemann was also responsible for making sure Adams County did not have a hometown state senator by redrawing district lines.

Homochitoo River bridge

The bridge project over the Homochitto River on Highway 98 will be delayed at least four months after state officials met with county officials last week. According to reports, removing the parts of the bridge that collapsed during construction is ongoing, with the structure being inspected extensively for damage. The bridge over the river in Bude was officially closed on Nov. 6, 2023 and has remained closed, with motorists and residents using detours around the construction area in order to travel to and from areas such as Summit, McComb, Meadville and Bude. The project consists of replacing the aging truss bridge over the river with a modern post-tension concrete bridge. Highway 98 has been closed between State Route 556 and Berrytown Road while construction is ongoing. The $25.7 million contract was awarded to Key, LLC of Madison. Over the first weekend of May, part of the bridge structure being built collapsed. At the time, MDOT officials said “contractors had been making progress on the new structure when it suffered damage to the structure they were working on. Fortunately, no one was hurt as a result.” Officials said it will be a minimum of four months before construction can resume. New concrete beams have been ordered and will take a few months to be poured and then delivered to the construction site. The project date currently is possibly by June of 2026 before the bridge will be open to the public.

Vidalia police executed an arrest warrant on Courtez Damper, 22, of Port Gibson. He was wanted by Fayette Police Department for accessory after the fact as it related to a drive-by shooting that occurred on April 11 in Fayette. He was taken into custody without incident. “Fayette PD called upon us to assist them in finding and arresting this individual,” said Chief Joey Merrill. “Our officers quickly located and took this subject into custody. Our department is always ready to respond when called upon.” Damper signed extradition paperwork, which he agreed to be picked up and transported to Fayette to answer these charges.

The Franklin County School Board is requesting $128,000 in extra funding from supervisors to meet the schools' $16.8 million budget that starts Oct. 1. $3.9 million of the school budget comes from local property taxes. Supervisors may find extra money if assessments increase. They could also trim other parts of the county budget or raises taxes.

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Inmate workers

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson announced that the public works crew normally has four inmates working with it. But now the inmate force has been increased from four to 16 people, with the help of Gov. Reeves, MDOC, the Wilkinson County prison management and others. The mayor also talked to Sheriff David Hedrick about starting an inmate work release program, similar to what Concordia has now. Adding an extra 12 inmates to the work crew should help with cutting grass, weed eating, maintenance of the roadways and drainage areas. Now that 16 inmates are assigned to daily tasks, the city’s look should improve. The inmates can also be used for the set up, tear down and clean up for city special events. 

CoreCivic operates a 2200 inmate capacity jail in Adams County, employing 320 people and paying $2 million in property taxes. Most of the prisoners are ICE detainees serving felony sentences. At the conclusion of their sentences, they will be deported to their home countries. The company has signed a new agreement with the county, which includes CoreCivic paying a $800,000 annual fee to Adams County based on the number of prisoners incarcerated. Supervisor Kevin Wilson began talks and negotiated the new fee, which will double the fee paid by the company, which will now be set at $1 per day per inmate.

Natchez will place its Civil War black troops monument at the north end of Broadway. See the circle in the picture on the left. The memorial statue will feature black soldier sailor and marine. Each figure will be approximately 6 feet high. The city plans to raise money through donations to fund the construction of the statue and a memorial wall that will feature the names of thousands black soldiers who served the union cause in the Natchez area, 1863 to 1865. The memorial will also have Wi-Fi capability, which will allow visitors to read more online about the black troops contributions to the war while looking at the display. The federal government has already appropriated $1 million for engineering, planning and infrastructure for the black troops monument area and the Hiram Revels Plaza on Saint Catherine St. Most of that money has already been committed and/or spent for the planning and engineering stages. Mayor Dan Gibson joked he’s hopeful that much of the work on the monument, St. Catherine to St. Revels Plaza will be done in time for the next election campaign in 2027-2028. The St. Catherine Street to D'Evereux Drive project is scheduled to receive federal funds for a Forks to Freedom Corridor initiative. The $24.7 million appropriation is expected to pass a Trump administration review. 

Michael L Johnson

Adams deputies arrested Michael L Johnson, 52, of Natchez, for possession of Schedule I and Schedule III drugs, felon in possession of a weapon and possession of a stolen firearm. He remains in jail on a $75,000 bond. In 2022, he was arrested by Concordia deputies for possession of meth with intent to distribute, possession of drug paraphernalia, traffic violations, and outstanding warrants. In 2016, deputies arrested him for felony possession of drugs, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of a stolen weapon.   

Arthur Lee Grayson, 56, of Natchez, has been arrested four times in recent years for dealing drugs, especially Roxicodone. He was arrested last year with two other men for dealing, and cash and vehicles were seized as part of his drug business. Now he has been indicted for his dealing but he had been released on a $125,000 bond. 

Concordia deputies arrested Raymond Knight, 41, of Vidalia, for domestic abuse, child endangerment and domestic abuse battery strangulation. Hr has a criminal history that includes arrest for felon in possession of a weapon, drug possession, possession of drug paraphernalia and domestic abuse battery. He remains in the parish jail.

School meals

The National School Lunch and Breakfast Programs require parents in Adams County to fill out an application to get a free lunch and breakfast for their child. The application asks for family income. If your family is poor, your child may qualify for free meals. If your family is lower middle class or middle class, you may have to contribute some monies. If you are upper middle class or well-to-do, then you may have to pay for the entire cost your child's meals. Since Adams County's household incomes are no longer the poorest of the poor in the country, the school district must solicit income information to get its federal reimbursement for school meals and check your income to learn whether your child gets free meals, reduced cost meals, or must pay the full cost for breakfast and lunch.

A Natchez woman reported her son and his friends were boating on the Homochitto River in Wilkinson County Sunday. As the boys came ashore to load up their boat and leave, an angry fisherman said their boat made waves. He pulled out a gun and shot five or six times near the boys, with the bullets splashing the water near the boat. No one was injured. The kids called 911 but no deputy responded, despite repeated calls. When a call was placed back to the sheriff’s office for help in getting a wildlife agent to respond, the dispatcher refused to place a call to Fish and Wildlife or give out the phone number of an agent. The angry fisherman ran off when the 911 calls were made, leaving his fishing pole and shell casings on the ground. Identity of the shooter is unknown.   

Vidalia remains the town in our area with the most solid finances. The just passed 2026 budget calls for expenditures of $39.4 million and revenues of $49 million. The year ending projected fund balance is $66.8 million, up from $57.2 million, reflecting a big increase in restricted, reserve and uncommitted cash balances. The new fiscal year starts July 1.

Stanley Nelson

Stanley Nelson has died at the age of 69. He was the Miss-Lou’s most highly regarded journalist of the modern era, a long-time editor of the Concordia Sentinel and a historian of books and articles on Concordia Parish Civil Rights Era history. He won a Pulitzer Prize for his work. Nelson was responsible for unearthing details on the Klan’s activities, unsolved murders from that era, and the work of the FBI and others to solve cases. He also wrote many in-depth articles on the history of the parish and its people of the post-WW2 period. Nelson was a Ferriday native.

Mississippi shares sales tax collections with towns and cities. The higher the collections, the better the economy is doing. The state starts its sales tax year in July and ends it in June. The sales tax year will end June 30, 2025. Natchez collections: 2025 estimate $5.8 million; 2024 $5.9 million; 2023 $5.9 million; 2022 $5.4 million.. May and June are yet to report. Looking at the state overall for 2025, even the traditional growth areas like the Gulf Coast towns, Oxford and Horn Lake are showing a slight decline compared to 2024. However, many towns are reporting real declines, whereas Natchez is experiencing a little dip. 

Adams deputies arrested William McGraw, 49, of Natchez, for felony possession of a stolen firearm, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of drugs with intent to distribute. He remains in jail on a $150,000 bond. In February, he was arrested for felony grand larceny.

Budget meeting

The Ferriday Town Council meets June 10 to discuss a new budget that would start July 1. The town expects to spend about $2.2 million in the coming year. Included in the budget are increases in salary for the mayor and aldermen. The mayor’s pay will be increased from $44,000 to $55,000 a year. Aldermen’s pay will be increased from $6,000 to $7,000 a year.

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said 400 catfish have been placed in the Polk Park Pond for fishing by the State of Louisiana wildlife and fisheries staff. Children under the age of 18 do not need a license to fish in the state. Anyone 18 or older must have a license. 

Woodville police are looking for information about a shooting near Fords Creek Road and Water Street on May 27. A drive-by shooting targeted a man in a vehicle. He was not injured. If you have information about the shooting, call police at 601-888-4111. 

Javonte Robinson

Woodville police and Wilkinson County sheriff’s deputies were serving warrants on individuals allegedly responsible for a March shooting near United Mississippi Bank. Those about to be arrested fled from a residence by jumping out the window and by then going into a pond. One adult escaped, but another adult was captured along with a juvenile. Both those arrested were charged with drive-by shooting and discharging a firearm within the city limits. The adult arrested was Javonte Robinson 21, of Woodville. 

Adams County Supervisor and Board President Kevin Wilson said garbage collection companies should be contacted, in case a judge agrees the board can legally fire its contractor now. Wilson suggested the board solicit requests for proposals from garbage companies wanting the job and “be ready to take over if the judge rules in our favor.” No action was taken by the board on his proposal. Dist 3. Supervisor Ricky Gray said he's in favor of fining United Infrastructure, but he doesn't want to cancel the contract.

Concordia Parish reports 6,015 workers with jobs, down 33 jobs from a year ago. The current jobless rate is 5.4 percent.

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Bude-Meadville results

The Town of Bude will see a virtual shakeup of municipal government after four incumbents lost their bids for re-election Tuesday night. In Bude, Elvia Brown took home 102 votes to top incumbent Linda Gail Green and Tiffany Kyzar in the race for Mayor. In the race for Alderman-at-Large, challenger Anna McCormick overcame four other challengers — including incumbent James M. Griffith, Jr. — by garnering 92 votes. Marla Watts Murray beat incumbent Norma J. Kelly and fellow challenger Victoria Watts in the race for Ward 1 Alderman. She took home 36 votes. Maggie Bethley ran unopposed in the Ward 2 race, bringing home 42 votes in the process. In Ward 3, incumbent Jillian Dunmore earned 39 votes to beat challenger Tralisa Shante' Amos. For Ward 4 alderman, Edward Middleton beat incumbent Jeffery Quick by earning 40 votes. 

In Meadville, incumbent Mayor Lane Reed ran unopposed to earn another four-year term. Kay Scott, Bart Jones, Stephanie Scott, Tyler Blalock and Josh Scott will serve on the Board of Aldermen for the next four years. Reed ran unopposed while incumbents Kay Scott, Bart Jones and Josh Scott won re-election. Joining them on the Board starting July 1 will be Stephenie Sullivan and Tyler Blalock. Sullivan won the highest vote total among the eight aldermen candidates with 82 total. Kay Scott earned 77 while Josh Scott brought home 75. Blalock earned 68 votes while Jones took home 66. David Clanton earned 61 votes to finish just out of the top five while Kaky Tindle earned 48 votes and Sara Scott took home 43 votes. In Roxie, Sharon Davis won the Mayor's race. Taking aldermen seats were Cynthia Doss, Jeremy Dyer, Robin Hunt, Santana Jenkins and Alexis Thompson. Winners will be sworn into office on July 1.

Concordia deputies arrested Christopher Collins, 33, home invasion, aggravated battery and simple criminal damage to property. He remains in jail. Natchez police arrested James E. Lushaw, 42, of Natchez, on charge of for felony arson of a dwelling. No bond has been set.

Natchez city judge

Terrence Hunter was the only candidate to qualify for city judge for the upcoming special election. When there is only one candidate for office in a municipal special election, the aldermen dispense with the election and appoint that one candidate to the remaining term, according to state law.

One person was shot dead and six wounded at Fayette Fest Saturday. Sheriff James Bailey and his deputies continue to investigate the shootings and welcome your information. Call 601-786-3403. The Mississippi Bureau of investigation has also been brought in on the case. Bailey said some of those wounded are critically injured. Deputies have not said whether they have made any arrests. Watching the videos, between 50-100 shots were fired from different guns from different shooters. Some of it was automatic weapons fire. There have been a rash of Glocks and other handguns illegally converted showing up in our area since last year. Criminals in Jefferson, Adams and Wilkinson routinely have illegally converted fully automatic handguns now. Link to shooting video: https://www.facebook.com/1043501550/videos/pcb.10233519123293643/1393778255103266

Adams County investigators are still working on the arson that destroyed the Godbold Family home on Creek Bend Rd. in July 2024. They did arrest three people in a separate burglary of the house. But deputies don’t believe the burglars did the arson. Those charged with burglary were Jozi Martin, Brandon White and Richard Davis. Some of the items they stole were recovered. Martin and Davis have been released on bond. White is still being held on a $50,000 bond. 

 Ben Ceasor sentenced

Judge John Reeves sentenced Ben Ceasor to 72 years in jail after Ceasor plead guilty to various crimes related to the 2024 manslaughter death of Jason Tyson. The 72 years included: 40 years for manslaughter, 7 years for aggravated flight, 5 years for hit and run and 10 years for felon with a weapon. And another 10 years for felon with a weapon was added for another pending weapons charge not related to the vehicular homicide. D.A. Brad Burget said the sentences will be served consecutively. Additionally, the felon with weapons charges will be served without benefit of suspension, probation or parole. Ceasor was fleeing law enforcement at high speed in Ferriday in March 2024, when he lost control of his vehicle and struck Tyson’s truck, killing Tyson.

The Miss-Lou Military Museum on Jeff Davis Blvd. will close at the end of June. Founded by the late Mark LaFrancis, the museum has been run by Larry and Jackie Smith since LaFrancis died and now they’re moving out of town. LaFrancis’ legacy continues with the Natchez-Vidalia participation in Wreaths Across America. 

The Natchez boil water advisory has been lifted.

More jobs

Adams County has 10,160 people with jobs, an increase of 520 jobs compared to a year ago. The jobless rate is 5 percent.

Natchez School Board Chairman Amos James Jr. spoke to the Natchez aldermen today and said the school district may run as much as a $2.8 million deficit this year. The school board spent money in advance, expecting the state and federal government to send in the budgeted money. But unfortunately, the feds have cut back on some spending and the district was surprised. He did not say whether the school board plans to increase property taxes to make up the deficit. This year‘s budget was $88 million for 2700 kids. Mayor Gibson and the aldermen commended James and thanked the school board for their leadership, praising the progress made by the school district in spite of the budget crunch.   

In recent months, concerns regarding blighted properties have surged across Catahoula Parish, prompting the Catahoula Parish Police Jury to take decisive action. As complaints continue to rise, the jury unanimously approved the issuance of formal notices to property owners of several identified nuisance sites. 

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Lighted bridge uncertain

Natchez aldermen agreed to spend $283,000 to buy LED light bulbs for the Mississippi River bridges. The bulbs will be kept in storage because there is not enough money to actually do the wiring and installation of the bulbs. The city had to spend a state appropriation or lose it. So the city is buying the bulbs. The grant also included design and engineering for the relighting of the bridges. When the bridges will actually be re-lit is uncertain.   

Louisiana has authorized a $15 million line of credit to begin a construction of the Vidalia slack water port. Bids should be let out soon and construction could start before the end of the year. The port facility will include a 70 acre lake. The Vidalia port will have the advantage of not having to deal with the Mississippi River current, which often requires tugs to keep underway to prevent barges from floating down river.   

Mayor Dan Gibson says the casino has paid its past due economic development monies.

Historic college

MDAH expects to receive $4.2 million from HUD to construct a regional historic preservation school at Historic Jefferson College. The grant will help repair some of the buildings which have received very little maintenance in recent years. The site has been closed to the public since 2019, when the museum was closed and employees laid off.   

The Franklin County School Board has given Supt. Chris Kent a two-year contract renewal.   

Voters in Meadville, Bude, Roxie and Woodville will head to the polls Tuesday to decide who will lead their municipalities for the next four years. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m. Tuesday as voters cast ballots in the races for Mayor and Board of Aldermen. Winners take office July 1.   

Melvin Ferrington

Melvin Ferrington, of Ferriday, has died at the age of 92. He spent much of his career working for BP Amoco and was also a restauranteur. He served on the Concordia Parish Police Jury for 22 years and was president of the jury for 12 years. Melvin was dedicated to the people of the parish and to the improvement of the community. He was a Mason and a member of Riverside Baptist Church.   

One of the New Orleans jail escapees may have been spotted near Providence Rd. In Natchez. Law enforcement is conducted air and ground searches. Antoine Massey was in jail for rape and kidnapping. He has a history that includes theft, domestic assault by strangulation and a previous escape. Do not approach him. Sheriff Patten said later Massey was not here.   

Over 4000 utility customers were without power May 27, as storms rolled through the Natchez area, downing trees and temporarily blocking some roads. Power was out at some traffic lights. A few buildings wee damaged by high winds. 

Sam Keys Jr.

In early March, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office received a report from Ferriday High School about the sexual assault of a juvenile victim. The case was turned over to Detectives with the Concordia Sheriff’s Office Cyber/Special Victims Unit, who immediately began an investigation. Detectives identified the suspect as Sam M Keys Jr. of Ferriday. With the assistance of the Alexandria Children’s Advocacy Center, probable cause was established, and arrest warrants were obtained. On May 22nd, 2025, Sam Keys was taken into custody, without incident, by Deputies with the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office and booked into the Concordia Parish Detention Center for 1 Count of Molestation of a Juvenile Victim Under 13 Years of Age and 4 Counts of Molestation of a Juvenile. This investigation is ongoing, and anyone with information should contact Detectives with the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office Cyber/Special Victims Unit at 318-473-0740 ext. 409. 

Sandy Rushing of Field Health in Centreville accepted a certificate of recognition from the Mississippi Hospital Association for her hospital’s care of seniors, including its use of appropriate medications, mental health interventions and additional mobility assistance provided to patients. 2700 hospitals from across the nation participate in this program to advance senior care. Rushing is a RN and Population Health Coordinator at Field.

The Natchez city-county pool opens for the summer May 27 at 1 PM. 

Water notice

A lightning strike hit the water plant last night causing a temporary loss of water, pressure. Natchez is under a boil water advisory until water tests are complete and approved by the state.   

TyKeria Rogers died in a storm when a tree fell on her home in December. The Natchez High senior was remembered when the school gave her mom an honorary diploma for TyKeria at this past Friday’s graduation.   

On May 25 at approximately 6:45 a.m., Louisiana State Police Troop E responded to a fatal crash on U.S. Highway 84 west of Louisiana Highway 3180. This crash claimed the life of 36-year-old Morgan Freeman of Natchez. The initial investigation revealed that a 2004 Toyota Camry, driven by Freeman, was traveling west on U.S. Highway 84. For reasons still under investigation, Freeman lost control of the vehicle which caused it to leave the roadway impacting a utility pole and a tree. Freeman, restraint usage unknown, sustained fatal injuries and was pronounced dead on scene. Toxicology samples were obtained and submitted for analysis.

Adams deputies arrested Jeremy K. Dixon, 33, of Natchez, for aggravated assault with a weapon. He is currently being held in jail. 

80 Natchez High kids graduated with additional college credits, with more than 40 earning an associate degree, the same degree granted by a two-year junior college.   

Thomas Sturdivant, 37, of Natchez, was arrested by Alexandria police in early May. He is wanted in Adams County for grand larceny and will be extradited here to face trial.

Ricky Gray, Anthony Hauer, Micael Winn

Adams County supervisors met with their port commissioners Thursday, learning the commissioners had no idea that BASF was ready to ditch the port for bad service. Port Director Anthony Hauer had never communicated to his board that the port was about to lose its largest customer. Knowing Hauer was on the hot seat, Supervisor Ricky Gray tried to break up the joint meeting, jumping up and down from his chair, gesticulating and yelling the meeting was illegal, even though the two attorneys there insisted the meeting was indeed legal. BASF officials were there to explain how bad the port service has become. Ignorant of the situation, port commissioners appeared confused and dismayed. Those in attendance heard details of mismanagement at the port and that the port management is being investigated by the state auditor. No findings have been released as yet by the auditor. By law, supervisors do not control the port, the port director and commissioners do. Once appointed, the directors and commissioners can only be removed for malfeasance or criminal activity. It’s really up to the commissioners and director to fix their mess. Gray, through his antics today, let his fellow supervisors and port commissioners know that he and they should support Hauer no matter what, even if BASF leaves and the county port loses their largest customer and its $624,000 in revenues. Port commissioner and port board chairman Michael Winn expressed his concern and promised the port would do better. He stated he had not heard any complaints from the public or anyone else. But it was rather obvious that he and others were being misled by Hauer and now Gray. With tone set by Gray, it’s unlikely the supervisors wiil take any action, as there are only two votes on the board of supervisors who feel the county is at risk, despite BASF’s written and oral statements that problems need to be fixed right away. Considering how Hauer has snowed his commissioners into thinking everything is Ok, it will be interesting to see what the commissioners do now, if anything. 

The Natchez Young Professionals and Natchez Adams-County Chamber of Commerce will host the Annual Young Professionals Natchez Bicycle Classic June 7. Registration is $65. For info, 601-431-1611. 

Adams deputies arrested Devron D. Green, 31, of Natchez, for possession of drugs with intent to distribute. He remains in jail. He has been arrested by Adams deputies in the past for resisting arrest. He was arrested by Concordia deputies for drug possession of prescription drugs without a prescription and possession of drug paraphernalia. His current Adams County charge includes enhancement for dealing drugs near a school, church or public park.

Fishing Day

Natchez Parks and Recreation, in partnership with Alderman Ben Davis, invites local children and their guardians to the "Fishing With Fathers and Friends" event on Saturday, June 14 at the Bob M. Dearing Natchez State Park. Youth aged 15 years and under participate for free. Youth aged 16 and over are $5 each and must have a fishing license. No charge for those assisting a child. Transportation from Natchez Transit: meet at the National Guard Armory in Liberty Park. The bus leaves at 7:30 a.m. Open To the Public. Lunch povided. Bait, fishing rods, and fishing buddies are available! For more information, contact Natchez Parks and Recreation at 601-597-4495 or visit natchezparks.com.

In June 2024, the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office Cyber Crime Unit began investigating 37-year-old Cody Allen Talley. Investigators communicated with Talley online disguised as a minor and the conversation soon turned sexual. According to authorities, Talley engaged in “lewd conversations” and requested photos of the supposed minor. Investigators later discovered Tally was employed by the Lafayette Parish School Board as a school janitor. CPSO deputies then coordinated with the Carencro Police Department and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office and Tally was taken into custody charged with felony Indecent Behavior with Juveniles, If, convicted, the penalty calls for up to 7 years in jail and up to a $5000 fine. Now Talley has pled guilty to a lesser charge of obscenity and received three years probation and no jail time from Judge Kathy Johnson in Seventh Judicial District Court, Judge Kathy Johnson. The normal penalty for a first conviction for obscenity is a fine between $1,000 and $2,500, imprisonment with or without hard labor for 6 months to 3 years, or both. But all Talley got was probation. 

Jonesville has appointed Lt. Elton "E.J". Mayes Jr. as the new Asst. Police Chief, following a decision made at the latest town meeting. 

Lauren Middleton

Lauren Middleton of Natchez has been elected to the Board of Directors of the Mississippi Bankers Association. Middleton is Chief Financial Officer for United Mississippi Bank.

MDAH has given a $5200 grant to the Natchez City Cemetery Association to carry out a building evaluation of its Shelter House main office and the maintenance barn. The cemetery will provide a $5200 match for the review of needed repairs. The Shelter House is a historic building, dating back to 1914 and was designed by nationally recognized architect Samuel Marx.

Mills Contracting of Madison, Miss., bid $2.2 million and was low bidder to do the Ferriday High renovation project. The school board will issue bonds to pay from the work. Since voters passed a renewal of the 13-mill property tax in Nov. 2023, there's enough money at hand to pay the note.

Happy 100th!

Barbara Swango Ford, of Woodville, recently celebrated her 100th birthday with Sandy Horne, Cecelia Ford Foreman (Barbara’s daughter) and Robbie Clark. Ms. Ford enjoyed two birthday parties, with over 90 people in attendance. She is a lifelong resident of Woodville.

Willie Morris Jr., 59, of Natchez, has been arrested by Adams deputies for failure to register as a sex offender, a felony. He remains in jail.

FCHS Band leadership for 2025-2026 school year announced The Leadership Team for the 2026 Pride of Franklin County Band has been completed. Drum Major Rylee Wactor will have six members on her team to help guide and lead the band for the 2025-2026 school year. They include the following: Abby Bowlin, Woodwind Captain/Flute Section Leader; Ethan Lizondro, Reeds Section Leader; Lisa Bowman, Percussion Captain/Front Ensemble Section Leader; Marianna Cothren, Brass Captain/High Brass Section Leader; Madison Gant, Low Brass Section Leader; and C.C. Colson, Color Guard Captain.

Collections decline

For the period July 2024-April 2025, City of Natchez sales tax collections were $4.7 million versus $4.8 million for the previous year. The state shares sales tax monies with towns and cities. And the city budget relies on the collections to help paying for ongoing expenses. Collections have been about 2.2% lower this year than last. Brookhaven reported $6.2 million in collections for the same period, with a small increase. And McComb reported $5.0 million, showing a slight decrease. 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers in Savannah has been seeking public comment as to whether it should start a commission of volunteers who are interested in promoting and preserving the history of Camp Van Dorn near Centreville. The camp opened in 1942 and was used to train soldiers of the 63rd and 99th Divisions. There is a small museum near the old camp. The Corps would like to increase the public awareness of the camp’s history and the contributions of the thousands of soldiers who trained there.   

If the Adams County Port loses its BASF warehousing and shipping business, the change could affect local employment. It’s unlikely that Vidalia can supply the same services in the short term. And the company might shift some of its Vidalia production to other plants, which could mean layoffs locally at the BASF plant. Vidalia does offer Vidalia Mills as a warehouse. But that location is not as convenient for shipping by river and rail as the Adams County Port. Vidalia does not have rail service. The denim factory is not on the river. And the property is in the midst of foreclosure. So it’s not immediately available. BASF wrote a letter to Adams supervisors (see earlier post), saying if the port continued to provide lousy service, it would discontinue doing business with the port completely. The loss of business would cost the port $624,000 a year and would make the operation insolvent, mandating a major tax increase to keep the port open. Adams County Supervisor Board President Kevin Wilson invited Port Director Anthony Hauer to this week’s supervisors’ meeting to discuss the problems. Hauer refused to talk about the issues in an open meeting. So county leaders went into an illegal executive session to chat with Hauer. So far, there’s been no announcement of a resolution of the crisis. Supervisor Ricky Gray said he no longer wished to receive texts from his fellow supervisors about this issue and any other county issue. He prefers to discuss any problems and potential solutions in supervisor meetings only. Port commissioners and supervisors will meet Thursday at 9 a.m. to discuss the port crisis.

Adams County Port

BASF in Vidalia said service is so bad from the Adams County Port, the company plans to drop doing business with the port unless service is improved immediately. Mistakes are being made in executing basic warehouse operations such as ensuring containers are properly loaded with the right product in the specified quantities, proper handling of goods and accurate inventory tracking. The company is already actively working on finding alternatives. Supervisors and the county port commissioner have been notified of the problems in writing. BASF brings $624,000 annually to the port in revenues.

William G. Bryan, 22, has been caught in Nebraska and will be extradited to Adams County to face charges that he cheated individuals and businesses as part of a fraudulent air conditioning repairs scheme. He allegedly committed at least four counts of fraud and conned people out of more than $20,000. 

Jalin Johnson of Natchez was 17 we he shot and killed Scottie Rodgers in 2019. He was charged with first degree murder, conspiracy to murder and aggravated assault for shooting at a woman. Today, he plead guilty to murder and received 10 years with credit for time served. No explanation was given in 6th District Court for the plea or light sentence.

Joseph Frank 

“Tracking the Tracks: The Natchez & Hamburg Railroad and the Locomotive Mississippi” will be Joseph Frank’s presentation at the Historic Natchez Foundation, 108 Commerce Street, on May 27, beginning with a social at 5:30 p.m. The locomotive, The Mississippi, was built in England in 1834. It was shipped to New York City and assembled. From there it was shipped to New Orleans and up the Mississippi River to Natchez. It was pulled up the Natchez bluff by Yoke of Oxen. The Mississippi Railroad ran from 1836 to 1844 in southwest Mississippi. It went bankrupt in 1844. At that time, it was sold to the Grand Gulf to Port Gibson rail line. In 1863, the locomotive was used during the Civil War by both North and South. It was recovered from the river at Vicksburg in 1880 and shipped to Brookhaven, Mississippi, where it was used to haul gravel and lumber. It was acquired by Illinois Central and in 1893 it was overhauled at the McComb, Mississippi, rail yard and, under its own steam, made it to be on display at the Chicago World’s Fair. It remained in Chicago until 2015 and was sold to a company in Knoxville, Tennessee. It is presently for sale. Joseph ‘Smokye Joe’ Frank is a retired Regional Manager with the State of Louisiana Rehabilitation Services. He has undergraduate and graduate degrees in Social Studies from Northwestern State University in Natchitoches, Louisiana. He has taught Anthropology and Social Studies at two of Northwestern’s extension programs in DeQuincy and Jonesville, The program is free to the public. It is part of a lecture series that is funded by a grant from the Mississippi Humanities Council through funding by the National Endowment for the Humanities. For more information, call 601-431-7737 or send email to info@natchezhistoricalsociety.org.

Bruce Brice Sr., 95, of Alexandria and formerly of Natchez, has died. Brice, his wife Maxine and their son, Bruce Jr. owned Receivable Solutions Specialists for many years, operating from the former B&K Bank building that is now Frankie’s on Main. Brice was an active Mason, state president for AARP and served on the Governor’s Council on Aging. He and Maxine were very involved in promoting Natchez and Downtown development. He was an LSU grad, a

Natchez police arrested Terrance R. Thomas, 24, of Natchez, for felony drug possession. No bond was set as yet.   

Shooter dies

Phillip X. Stokes Jr., 19, of Natchez, shot and wounded his ex-girlfriend last Friday and was on the run. Police found him Sunday near the visitors center. Stokes opened fire. Police returned fire and he was critically wounded. Now he has succumbed to his wounds. 

Natchez police arrested Frederick J. Hauer, 36, of Natchez, for felony drug possession and petit larceny. In 2023, Adams deputies arrested him for trafficking ecstasy. In 2010, he was charged with conspiracy to obtain a narcotic, a felony.   

High water has prompted officials to declare “no wakes” in Concordia and Catahoula parishes. 

Pool repairs needed

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson met with seniors to talk about the repairs needed to reopen the Carpenter pool. Gibson said high carbon monoxide levels were recorded, which are caused by the the pool equipment, and results in poor ventilation. The pool water is not properly circulating. The pool is also leaking, causing problems in the parking lot area and with a retaining wall. Plumbing runs across the floor, creating a tripping and falling hazard. The city will meet with Ryan Dunlevy of Southeast Engineers, an expert in swimming pool engineering to determine remedies and figure how much cost is involved. But the fixes will be expensive.

Zillow says in its 2025 market report that Natchez housing prices will rise 6.7 percent to an average of $117,154.

Two weeks ago, the Highway 98 bridge that stretches over the Homochitto River in Franklin County collapsed. The incident is now causing a delay in the bridge’s construction that was supposed to be completed in 2026.

 Dennis Donald

Adams deputies arrested Jarvanti Doss, 28, of Fayette, for possession of a weapon by a felon. The last time he made news was in November 2023, when he and another criminal shot it out at a c-store in Fayette. Both men were wounded and then charged with aggravated assault. Bond has not yet been set. In a separate incident, deputies arrested Dennis Donald, 57, of Natchez, for two counts of animal cruelty. Bond was set at $50,000, and he remains in jail. 

GM Billy Davis, along with the Board of Directors of Concordia Electric Coop, announced that they will be awarding 10 scholarships and Louisiana Rural Electric Association will be awarding five scholarships in the amount of $750 each. The application is available to seniors graduating in May 2025 who plan to attend college in the fall. They must be a resident of the cooperative’s seven parish service area, which includes Caldwell, Catahoula, Concordia, Franklin, Grant, LaSalle, and Tensas.

The Natchez Festival of Music presents a tribute performance, "Whitney Houston ...Will Always Love You," May 17 at 7:00 p.m. at the Natchez City Auditorium. Performers include Krista Overby, Latisha Hamilton Earnest and Jessica Riley Craig. Tickets are $35 from www.eventbrite.com/e/whitney-houston-will-always-love-you-tickets-1032286515757?.

Bar reopens

Following Judge Carmen Drake’s order that the City of Natchez acted illegally to close the Truth Lounge, the business has reopened on Franklin St. The bar has been open for two weeks. So far, there have been smaller crowds than in the past and no reports of incidents. 

Vidalia continues to set its property tax millage as the lowest in the state at 3.2 mills. Aldermen confirmed the low rate for another year. The town earns most of its revenue from the hydro plant, which allows aldermen to keep property taxes so low.   

The Concordia Parish School Board is moving its meetings to different locations to make it easier for the public to attend: May 25, 6 p.m., Old Gym, Monterey School; June 12, 6 p.m., Ferriday Junior High.

Paving lawsuit

An engineering company did a detailed study of the asphalt and paving work done by a contractor on Canal and Homichitto Streets and found more than 20 major deficiencies in the work. The company refused to redo the job. So Natchez aldermen have voted to sue Theobald Construction of Vicksburg.

Natchez police found wanted shooter Phillip Stokes Jr., 20, of Natchez, near the visitor center on Sunday. Stokes opened fire and police returned fire. Stokes was critically wounded in the exchange and taken to the hospital. He will be arrested for Friday’s attempted murder and wounding of his ex-girlfriend if he recovers. Since an officer was involved in the shooting at the visitor center, the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation will conduct an inquiry. 

The Mississippi River at Natchez will not fall below flood stage until May 21.

 Willeshia Williams and Phillip X. Stokes Jr., 

Natchez police arrested Willeshia Williams and charged her with accessory after the fact of attempted murder, following a shooting on Lafayette St. on Friday. Williams drove a car in which shooting suspect Phillip X. Stokes Jr., 19, fired at a woman on her porch, wounding the victim. Stokes was arrested in 2022 by Adams deputies by aggravated assault for shooting at the occupants of a vehicle and making online threats. Police are looking for Stokes.

An Anne Moody Interpretative Center will be set up in the main building of Natchez College, remembering her life. Moody was from Wilkinson County and gained recognition for her writing and civil rights activism. Late in life and in difficult health, she returned home to Wilkinson County, where she died in 2015. In recent years, there’s been more recognition of her literary contributions. But during her lifetime, she was often despised and castigated for her frank and accurate depictions of people in her home county. She lived most of her adult life outside of the state, including New York and Europe.

Adams deputies arrested Lawanda Terrell, 53, of Natchez, for felony taking away of a motor vehicle, possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia. Bond was set at $10,250.

Drawings raise funds

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office has been running a month long series of fundraising drawings where winners receive a firearm from the Sports Center. The proceeds will be used to purchase digital forensics software to aid in crime investigations. 

Wilkinson County supervisors met to consider county business. They transferred $73,000 from the courthouse renovation fund to pay for a shortfall on the renovation of the Hamilton extension building. They learned that the cost of the replacement of the Pinkneyville Rd. Bridge will be approximately $2.1 million. Additionally, they agreed to buy a Kabota tractor and a front end loader. Supervisors also agreed to buy materials in advance for work on the Dry Creek bridge at Whetstone Road.   

The Louisiana Department of Health has given the water systems of Clayton, Ridgecrest and Ferriday a grade of F. The systems are plagued by inadequate wells, poor maintenance, poor quality water, frequent outages, boil water notices, failing tests, inadequate recordkeeping and failure to follow safe water rules and regulations. High levels of contaminants and metals were occasionally reported. Miss-Lou Magazine advises residents to obtain better sources of water, using bottled water, rainwater storage and drilling your own well. Most of the time, the water is safe to use in the three towns, though coloration, taste and odor may be unappealing. Sometimes the water is not safe. Monterey Water has received a grade of C and Concordia Water a grade of B.

NATCHEZ COLLISION CENTER: 386 Liberty Rd., Natchez, 601-445-0473. Ben and Bubba Wroten, owners. Our team of collision and paint specialists offers you great work at a fair price. Count on us for 24-hour towing, free insurance estimates and customer satisfaction you expect. Our business has grown every year, testimony to the fact folks really trust us to do a good job. We have hundreds of repeat customers. Thank you to all our friends who have made our business successful.   See our website: www.natchezcollision.com.

Scott Sanders

One of the four Democratic candidates for alderman in Woodville died unexpectedly. Scott Sanders, 55, passed on April 20. Sanders was the county’s E911 coordinator. The Board of Supervisors issued a memorial proclamation in his memory for his contributions to the community. The Wilkinson County Democratic Executive Committee appointed Vivian Barnes to replace him on the ballot. Barnes finished fifth in the April 2 voting. Woodville has a mayor and four aldermen serving. Those on the June 3 General Election ballot include: Mayor: Jessie Stewart (D) and Drapier Anderson (I). Aldermen: Vivian Barnes, Will Carter, Louis D’Aquilla and Megan Spillman, all (D) and Frances Bailey (I). 

Trees fell from high winds and power went out to more than 3000 homes in the Miss-Lou during a storms on May 7. The Vidalia riverfront had flooding, with a small lake being formed. Lightning struck a pump and rendered it out of service. The pump has since been repaired or replaced and the water level on the riverfront is  going down. 

Donald Higginbotham III, 27, of Ferriday, was arrested in 2024 for raping a child under age 13, possession of drugs and possession of a weapon by a felon. District Attorney Brad Burget said Higginbotham has pleaded guilty to sexual battery of a child under age 13 and received a 30 year sentence without benefits.

Scam artist 

The Adams County Sheriff’s Office is asking for the public’s help in locating William Gillespie Bryan IV, who is wanted for multiple violations of home repair fraud .Bryan, born on February 10, 1992, is currently at large, and law enforcement officials are urging anyone with information about his whereabouts to come forward.If you have any details that could help locate Bryan, contact the Adams County Sheriff’s Office at 601-442-2752 or call 911. Those wishing to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at 888-442-5001.

Adams County supervisors have changed the airport commission into an advisory board. The airport will now function under the control of the supervisors and the airport director will report to the county administrator, like some other county departments.

Concordia deputies arrested Bryan Melton, 52, of Vidalia, for felon in possession of a weapon. In 2022, he was arrested on 33 counts of video voyeurism after he secretly recorded people having sex without their knowledge. He has previously been arrested for possession of drugs. Melton has posted bond and been released.

Amnesty offered

Franklin County residents with outstanding warrants now have a chance to resolve those matters during the month of May. The Franklin County Justice Court, in cooperation with the Franklin County Constable’s Office, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and the Franklin County Board of Supervisors — is instating a Warrant Amnesty Program from May 1-31. This program will offer a one-time release on own recognizance bond opportunity of $35 for each warrant. This will remove a person’s active misdemeanor and/or traffic warrant without fear of arrest and incarceration. In addition, it will provide you with a new court date in order to settle court obligations.   

Adams County deputies are seeking information about a drive-by shooting that occurred in Broadmoor subdivision on April 30. Bullets struck a residence but no one was injured. If you have any information, you can contribute it anonymously by calling 601-442-2752.

The renewal of the Catahoula Parish tax levy for the sheriff's office was defeated on Saturday. 550 voted "yes" and 575 voted "no," Turnout was 18.1 percent.

Vidalia repairs

Vidalia Mayor Buz Craft said Elm St. near the sinkhole is closed. As the hole continues to expand, he asks drivers not to go sightseeing, as the area is truly dangerous and could collapse more. The hole is seven feet deep. The Corps of Engineers asks you to stay off levee roads, too. Seepage and road collapses can occur even as the river is falling.     

The canceled Relay for Life has scheduled a survivors' reception, awards ceremony and lumanaria service for May 13 from 4-7:30 p.m. at the Vidalia Convention Center.   

The Mississippi River should start to fall May 4. Should fall below flood stage by May 9. 

New jail coming

Louisiana faces increasing teenage crime and violence. And the state has decided to house approximately 80 17-year-olds in Concordia in a new jail that will be state of the art and very different. The emphasis will not be on punishment, but on turning kids lives around. They will be offered education and counseling as well as self discipline activities that may open a few hearts and change the way the kids behave. This state wants to give kids a chance to mend their ways in a the facility that is separate from hardened adult offenders. The new jail should open this fall. 

Concordia reports 6,070 workers employed, up 55 workers from a year ago. Unemployment is 5.4 percent.   

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said the city is getting estimates on the repairs needed to reopen the Carpenter pool at the Seniors’ Center. The pool will need some new piping, a leak fixed, revamped ventilation, painting and other repairs. Cost is uncertain. Gibson added that he remains committed to not raising millage and the city must get be vigilant on monitoring spending. He continues the practice of signing checks himself before they leave city hall. He said it’s unlikely the city will borrow more money in the short term because interest rates are a bit high. Total cost of the removal of the Fry Building will be $1-$1.4 million. He also said that he would definitely run for a third term.

Buz Craft

Vidalia Buz Mayor Craft said progress is still being made on plans to build a slack  water port for Vidalia. The grant money for construction is already in the bank, but it may take another two years, waiting for all the federal approvals, before construction can begin and be completed.  Having a slack water will give the city the opportunity to unload barges easily. And tugs will not have to stay under way to fight the river current.  Buz said he expects companies to look at the Vidalia Denim plant in the near future. Now that the plant is privately owned, the mortgage holders are expected to foreclose on the property. And once they gain title, they will look for buyers or renters for the plant. The mayor said Vidalia continues to do well. He credited Jay Lasyone and Debra Moak in administration and accounting. Buz said, “We’ve  built a good team at City Hall. And we will continue to spend money carefully.” Craft also said the sinkhole at Concordia Avenue and Elm Street will be fixed after the river starts to go down. There is a high water table at this point, which makes  doing work there now too dangerous for the crews. But he’s made the repair a top priority. The work will be done after the flood abates.

The Natchez Festival of Music invites you to a children’s opera titled "Little Red’s Most Unusual Day," May 3 from 10-11:30 a.m. at The Natchez Little Theatre. Admission is free.. It is the operatic version of the story of Little Red Riding Hood based on scenes from operas by J. Offenbach and G. Rossini. Children of all ages can witness the creative retelling of this traditional fairy tale. Admission is free. No tickets needed.

Catahoula votes May 3 on this tax levy initiative: "Shall the Law Enforcement District of the Parish of Catahoula, State of Louisiana (the "District"), continue to levy a tax of 15.72 mills on all the property subject to taxation in the District (an estimated $992,000 reasonably expected at this time to be collected from the levy of the tax for an entire year), for a period of 10 years, beginning with the year 2027 and ending with the year 2036, for the purpose of providing additional funding for the District?" Miss-Lou Magazine encourages you to vote Yes as the levy is necessary to combat crime and fund law enforcement operations.

Sicily Island fire

State Fire Marshal deputies are investigating an overnight North Louisiana house fire that claimed the life of a Sicily Island man. On Sunday, the Sicily Island Volunteer Fire Department responded to a house fire in the 400 block of Peck Avenue in Sicily Island. A 63-year-old man died in the blaze. The fire destroyed the house. Fire investigators are still trying to determine the cause of the fire. Due to the extent of the damage, it’s unclear whether the home had working smoke alarms. 

Relay for Life of the Miss-Lou will have its survivor reception May 2 from 4-6 p.m. and the relay itself from 6-10 p.m. at the Vidalia Rec Complex on Hoffpauir Dr. The fundraiser has already raised more than $27,000 from its Bank Night fundraising.

Area candidates for positions of Mayor and Board of Aldermen are nearing the stretch run for their campaigns. The General Election will be on June 3, with winners taking office on July 1.In Meadville, Mayor Lane B. Reed will run unopposed while eight candidates — including three incumbents — will be vying for the five seats on the town's Board of Aldermen. Incumbents Bart Jones, Kay Scott and Josh Scott will face challengers  Sara Scott, Stephenie Sullivan, Davis Clanton, Tyler Blalock and Kaky Tindle in the June 3 election.In Bude, incumbent Linda Gail Green will face challengers Elvia L. Brown and Tiffany Kyzar in the race for Mayor. Vying for Alderman-at-Large will be incumbent James M. Griffith, Jr., Robert Collins, Kimberly M. Ford, Richard Nowell and Anna McCormick. In Ward 1, incumbent Alderwoman Norma J. Kelly will face challengers Marla Murray and Victoria Watts. Maggie Bethley will run unopposed in the race for Ward 2 Alderwoman. In Ward 3, incumbent Alderwoman Jillian Dunmore will face challenger Tralisa Shante' Amos.  In Ward 4, incumbent Alderman Jeffery Quick will face challenger Edward  Middleton.Over in Roxie, incumbent Mayor Armand Williams, Sr., will face challenger Sharon Davis. A total of six candidates will be vying for five spots on the Board of Aldermen. Incumbents Alexis Thompson, Robin Hunt, James McNutt and Santana Jenkins will be joined on the ballot by Cynthia Doss and Jeremy Dyer. The top five vote getters will earn seats on the Board. For Board of Aldermen races, the top five vote getters will be sworn in  and officially take office on July 1.

Sinkhole

Residents near Concordia Ave. and Elm St. in Vidalia reported a sinkhole in the pavement. Authorities say such holes occur when the Miss. River floods.

Concordia deputies arrested Glenn Roy, 44, of Natchez, for aggravated battery, domestic abuse battery and simple criminal damage to property. He is being held in jail. Adams deputies arrested him in September on a charge of simple assault/domestic violence. Deputies also arrested Dale R. Williams, 64, of Clayton, for failure to register as a sex offender. He was convicted of sexual battery. He is currently in the parish jail. 

On April 24, Terric Cyantre Thomas was indicted by a Grand Jury in the 7th Judicial District for the following: (3) Counts of 1st Degree Rape Victim Under 13 Years of Age, Aggravated Flight From an Officer and Simple Criminal Damage to Property.

Victim critically wounded

Natchez police arrested Joseph Letcher, 47, after he shot his stepson in the face, critically wounding him. Letcher has been charged with attempted murder. In 2021, he was arrested for possession of a stolen weapon. The stepson was airlifted to Jackson and is in critical condition.

Scott Slover has been appointed public defender for Natchez municipal court. He also serves as the supervisors’ board attorney.

Natchez sales tax collections showed slight decline: July 2024-March 2025 $4.2 million, July 2023-March 2024 $4.3 million.  The figures represent the share of tax collections distributed to the City of Natchez from the State of Mississippi. City government uses the money to fund its operations.

Going off tour

As the Pilgrimage Garden Club faces increasing financial problems and low tour numbers, seven of the antebellum homeowners have withdrawn from the club. Fall and Spring Pilgrimage have had years of decline since the peak of the early 1990s. Both garden clubs have seen their tour numbers and and entertainment ticket sales drop. The clubs used to release numbers for their ticket sales but starting in the mid 1990's they stopped doing so, as business ebbed away.

The Natchez City Cemetery has formally opened its columbarium, a special facility for the storage of cremated remains.  

The State of Miss. has just released both positive and remarkable employment numbers for Adams County. As of March 2025, the county had 9,970 people employed, up 770 jobs from March 2024. The numbers reveal the best growth in three years. The jobless rate is 5.6 percent.

Lori Spinks

CPSO’s Criminal Investigations Division received a complaint that Tori Estes Spinks, 47, of Wildsville, ] had stolen the identities of three people. According to the complaint, more than $50,000 was fraudulently obtained by Spinks, some of which included federal loans. One victim became aware of the situation after noticing a garnishment from their paycheck. An investigation revealed evidence of the alleged crimes, and an arrest warrant was obtained; Spinks was arrested on April 11. The investigation remains open. Anyone with information regarding the case or additional victims is urged to contact CPSO’s Criminal Investigations Division by calling (318) 437-0740. She was charged with three counts of Forgery, three counts of Identity Theft and Theft Greater Than $25,000.

The Canal Street Bridge in Natchez was built in the 1930s or 1940's and nearing the end its life, despite recent repairs. A consulting engineer says the city needs a one span 75 foot long bridge with sidewalks. A new design will include lighting, railings and the look will meet preservation guidelines. Estimated cost is $5-6 million. The construction process will use drill shafts versus pile driving to minimize noise and vibration to the neighbors. The city will ask for federal funds to build.

Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents arrested a Jonesville man for alleged turkey hunting and trespassing violations in Catahoula Parish. Agents arrested Jeffrey K. Hudnall, 58, for taking turkeys during a closed season, intentional concealment of wildlife, failing to tag harvested turkeys and criminal trespassing.

Visitor center

The National Park Service is spending $6 million to renovate the Natchez visitor center, including roofing, air conditioning, interior and exterior repairs and new exhibits. Park Superintendent Kathleen Bond says the center should reopen in late 2026. Bond also said the Mellon Foundation has given the Service a $1 million grant to buy additional land near the Forks of the Road.

The Franklin County Pro Rodeo is returning to the area this weekend. Rodeo performances will begin at 8 p.m. on Friday and Saturday at the 
 Franklin County Fairgrounds in Bude. Everyone is asked to bring lawn chairs for seating. Tickets can be purchased at the gate for $10 per adult and $5 for children under the age of 12. Competitors are part of the Tri-State Rodeo Association, and bearded Pro Rodeo Company will be running the shows. Also featured will be Funny Man Ronald Burton during the family-friendly event. Concessions will also be available, and a kids calf scramble will take place during intermission each night.

Russell Purvis is now Ferriday Town Attorney. Born in Jonesville in 1949. Admitted to bar, 1975,  Purvis is also admitted to practice before U.S. Court of Appeals, Fifth Circuit: U.S. District Court, Eastern, Western and Middle Districts of Louisiana. He has also served as attorney for Jonesville.

Audit requested

Adams County supervisors haves called and asked the State Auditor to investigate the theft of cash from Adams County Justice Court. Supervisors have delayed canceling their garbage contract with United Infrastructure, giving the company another chance to answer complaints about poor service, and vehicles that are not insured and not MDOT inspected.   

Natchez aldermen are soliciting bids for the procurement of lights as specified in the Contract Documents, for the MS River Aesthetic Bridge Lighting Project. This contract includes only the procurement of materials. Installation and/or construction activities are not included in this bidding. The City of Natchez will receive sealed bids until the hour of 10:00 AM local time on May 27 and taken under advisement until the next meeting of the Natchez Mayor and Board of Aldermen. Funding for this project is provided by House Bill 1353 from 2022.

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Concordia deputies arrested Deshawn Williams, 17, of Ferriday, for felony battery of a correctional officer. No other details are available.

Teens wounded

Natchez police said four teenagers were shot at in Maryland Heights in Natchez on Saturday evening, with three wounded. No assailants have been arrested so far.   

Adam County Coroner James Lee retires at the end of April, after 28 years of service. He wants supervisors to appoint his assistant, Rosa Newman, as his interim replacement. Lee was reelected in 2023. Since there is more than a year to the end of his term, I believe supervisors will have to call a special election after making the interim appointment.

Woodville Police Chief Lemuel Rutledge reported that Summit gave Woodville a patrol car as a donation. This will help keep tabs on the ever present criminal element. Woodville has been suffering like Natchez with an outbreak of crime in the last 10 years. Recently, automatic gunfire has been reported on several occasions. One burst wounded a person near United Mississippi Bank‘s parking lot.

Foreclosure postponed

The Vidalia Mills sheriff’s sale has been delayed, as at least two appraisals need to be done and additional paperwork for the foreclosure. The plant closed in 2024, owing two credit unions, accounts payable creditors and the employees. When the property finally does go up for sheriff’s sale, it will include the 82 acres of land, the building and equipment. The foreclosure will handle the hard assets, but accounts payable, money owed to employees and money owed to the town of Vidalia for utilities are more likely to be handled through a bankruptcy. Unsecured creditors are unlikely to get anything, as the company has run through its cash.

Adams deputies arrested Albert McClure Jr., 64, of Natchez, for failure to register as a sex offender. He remains in jail on a $15,000 bond. In a separate arrest, deputies arrested Keith Doss, 18, of Natchez, for possession of a stolen firearm. Bond has been set at $100,000 and he remains in jail.

 The Mississippi River at Natchez should rise to 54.5 feet and then begin to fall around April 26, reaching 40 feet by May 10. Flooding has occurred in Adams County, Concordia Parish and Wilkinson County. The spring flood has temporarily stopped work on the rebuilding of the Jackson Point Road bridge in Wilkinson County, as well as flooding much low-lying agricultural land. Judge Danny Barber withheld bond.

Devin Wheeler

A man accused of killing another man in Natchez was arrested in Louisiana. The Adams County Sheriff's Office was called to a home on Hillcrest Drive Sunday. Authorities said William "Billy" Ray had been shot and killed. After investigators went through the victim's digital data, presumably on his cell phone, they were led to a home in West Monroe. At the home, law enforcement arrested Devin Wheeler, 28, of West Monroe on Wednesday for being a felon in possession of a gun. Law enforcement found a loaded 9 mm pistol, which has been sent to the Mississippi State Crime Lab. On Thursday, an arrest warrant was issued for Wheeler for first-degree murder. Adams County deputies served the warrant. Wheeler's brother, Adam Cade Wheeler, had been listed as a person of interest in the case, but he was questioned and released with no charges filed. Devin Wheeler is in jail, pending a bond hearing.

Jacqueline Marsaw has been rehired by Congressman Bennie Thompson to lead his Natchez office. Marsaw posted on Facebook in July 2024 that she wished the Butler, Pennsylvania, shooter “had better aim,” after Thomas Crooks wounded Trump, killed one man and wounded others. Her implied threat and death wish for Trump literally made news across the world and forced Thompson to fire her. Now that she is back in her post, she has not said whether or not she still wants Trump killed.

Copiah-Lincoln Community College’s Natchez Campus inducted three outstanding students to the college’s Hall of Fame during the annual awards day program. The Hall of Fame is the most prestigious award given to a student and is voted on by students, faculty, and staff members. Only college sophomores are eligible for the honor and basis for selection includes fineness of character, superior scholarship, worthy leadership, and contribution to the betterment of Copiah-Lincoln. Dottie Davenport of Natchez, Domonique Doss of Natchez, and Angelica King of Washington were selected as this year’s inductees.Read more about the  honorees here: https://bit.ly/3G7kswG

Murderer indicted

A man whose death sentence was commuted by former President Joe Biden in December 2024 has been indicted for the first-degree murder of  12-year-old Lexis Roberts, according to Catahoula Parish District Attorney Brad Burget. Thomas Steven Sanders was put on death row back in September of 2014 for the 2010 kidnapping and murder of 12-year-old Lexis Roberts of Las Vegas. Following a four-year trial, Sanders was sentenced to death by a jury at Alexandria’s Federal Courthouse. Sanders admitted to kidnapping and then killing Roberts in Catahoula Parish near Harrisonburg after murdering her mother in Arizona. Biden commuted his federal death sentence. But state courts can still pursue charges. Burget says the evidence is clear and overwhelming, and he will seek the death penalty.

Ferriday Mayor Alvin Garrison is now responsible for cleaning up the bookkeeping and accounting mess left behind by incompetent Mayor Rydell Turner and his staff. Even with the 2022 CPA audit filed in November, the town is two years behind in filing, missing now very past due 2023 and 2024 audits. Knight Masden CPAs performed the latest submitted audit. Here's what the CPAs told Mayor Garrison, the Town Council and the Legislative Auditor. The Town could not locate documentation to support various numbers on the financial statements. It had an unfavorable expenditure variance of $412,950 or 14.5% for the year, a deficit and operated without a budget for eight months of the fiscal year. Town Minutes of several council meeting could not be produced. Ferriday did not remit Safe Drinking Water fee payments for several years, nor did it remit the funds due to the various judicial and law enforcement agencies for the charges/tickets paid during the year. The Town did not timely file their financial statements with the Legislative Auditor on a timely basis. Ferriday's bank account that holds utility deposits is less than the schedule of utility customer deposits, basically siphoning off customers' money. The Town could not supply documentation on grants received and tracking of expenditures and grant restrictions. It could not supply documentation that it complied with Louisiana Bid Law in the purchasing of several assets during the fiscal year. And Ferriday is not depositing the correct amount of funds in the required bank accounts to meet bond requirements.

Alexandru Ionut Gheorghe, 28, and Marian Aurelian Neacsu, 29, were both sentenced today to 15 months in federal prison for possession of device-making equipment, also known as skimmers. Judge David Bramlette delivered the sentences. Their codefendant, Bogdan Gabriel Radu, 22, pleaded guilty today to possession of device-making equipment. All three defendants are Romanian nationals who entered the United States illegally. According to court documents and statements made in court, beginning on June 21, 2024, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office Cyber Crime Division began receiving reports from various agencies regarding the discovery of skimmer devices being located at various stores in central Mississippi. The Cyber Fraud Task Force began investigating leads that would determine the location of installed skimmers throughout the Southern District of Mississippi, Tennessee, and Louisiana. Gheorghe, Neacsu, and Radu could be seen on surveillance video at various stores throughout the Southern District of Mississippi placing skimming devices on point-of-sale machines in June and July 2024. The skimmers were adhered using double-sided tape and were equipped with electronics that captured or recorded bank card magstripe track data and PIN numbers, stored the skimmed card data, were Bluetooth capable for remote connectivity, and were powered by lithium batteries. Gheorghe and Neacsu would install the skimmers while making a small purchase using a gift card. Radu was primarily responsible for retrieving the stolen data from the skimmers.Included in the information skimmed or stolen by these defendants were SNAP benefits totaling over $85,000, for which the defendants will be required to pay restitution. SNAP provides food benefits to low-income families to supplement their grocery budget. These stolen SNAP benefits were used in New Jersey and Pennsylvania and can be traced back to the skimming devices in Mississippi.A criminal complaint was filed against Gheorghe and Neacsu on August 2, 2024. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against them on August 13, 2024. Thereafter, a superseding indictment was filed on November 6, 2024, adding Radu as a codefendant. Radu is scheduled to be sentenced on July 15, 2025, and faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. As the defendants entered the United States illegally, they may be subject to deportation upon their release from prison.

Historic photos reception

The 30th Anniversary Celebration of Natchez in Historic Photographs at Stratton Chapel will be held Apr. 24 from 5:30-7:30 p.m. and include a reception with hors d’oeuvres and special music to be held at the gallery. This event is free and open to the public. The address is 405 State St. For info, call 601-442-2581.

Congressman Bennie Thompson  held a town hall in Natchez at New Beginnings Missionary Baptist Church on Triumph Lane. He said the President and Musk continue to be a threat to democracy and the nation and want to destroy Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, voting rights and women's rights.

Catahoula voters will cast ballots for the parishwide law enforcement district ballot initiative on May 3. The measures asks voters to approve or reject a 15.72 mills 10-year property tax renewal to fund the sheriff's office, Early voting runs April 19-26. Miss-Lou Magazine supports this renewal as necessary for running parish law enforcement and providing public safety. Vote Yes.

Trey Hess

Trey Hess of PPM Consultants in Ridgeland will be helping the City of Natchez demolish the Fry Building as a precursor to rebuilding the Eola Hotel.  PPM provides compliance consulting and related environmental services to business  industry and government. Before working for PPM, Hess served as the Chief of the Groundwater Assessment & Remediation Division for MDEQ and was responsible for the State cleanups at superfund, leaking underground storage tanks, Brownfields, voluntary cleanups, and uncontrolled sites. The Fry site will be turned into a parking lot for the Eola and the public. The city intends to borrow $500,000 for the demolition project.  It will likely cost another $200,000 to design, pave, stripe and light the parking lot. It's the first time in modern history that the city has decided to spend taxpayer money directly to subsidize a business venture without a formal written contract or guarantee that the business (in this case, the Eola) would carry through with its plans.

Jekia Horton, 36, of Natchez, was serving as an Adams County assistant justice court clerk, when it was discovered that she allegedly stole money from her office. She offered repayment of approximately $2,100 to keep her job. Supervisors fired her and she was arrested by Adams deputies for grand larceny. Bond was set at $10,000. Supervisors have the option of asking the State Auditor to conduct an investigation. Supervisors are not certain just how much money was lifted.

Through most of 2024, Adams County had 9,900-10,200 workers with jobs, depending on the month, a slight increase over 2023. The 2020 pandemic cost 1800 jobs in the short term. But it’s taken several years since then for the economy to grow back to the 9,800-10,000 jobs level. In 2011, the county had 11,580 jobs and in 2017, a reported 10,380.

Drone in the air!

Sheriff David Hedrick and the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office staff are sincerely grateful for the continued support of the Concordia Bank staff. The bank has made a donation that assisted with the purchase of a new DJI M30T drone for the agency. This new drone, also known as CPSO Air 1 provides the drone pilots with the ability to scout and assess potentially dangerous situations from a distance. The drone allows CPSO to gain critical insights into risky environments before our deputies are physically present, significantly enhancing the safety and tactical planning of all involved personnel.   

Students at the Franklin County Career and Technical Center, especially those in carpentry, welding and construction trades classes, will be the main beneficiary of a $10,000 donation from Milwaukee Tool. The check was presented to the center by Vice President of Accessories Manufacturing Jack Bilotta and United States Senator Cindy Hyde-Smith. The donation was also made in memory of Nigel Wentworth, who was tragically killed in an accident at the center two decades ago. An overhead door came loose and fell on him, causing him to suffer fatal injuries. Members of Wentworth’s family were also in attendance for the check presentation. 

William "Billy" Ray, 63, on Natchez was shot and killed on Hillcrest Drive in Cloverdale on Sunday. Adams deputies said the killing was a homicide. Deputies were searching for Adam Cade Wheeler as a person of interest. He showed up at ACSO and is being interviewed.

Adams deputies arrested Marlon Frye, 50, of Natchez, for dealing drugs. The charge carries an enhancement penalty of double the sentence if convicted, because he has previous drug convictions. The last time he made big news was in 2014, when he received three vehicles in Jackson, with altered serial numbers and tried to sell them in Natchez.  He gave one of the stolen cars to his mother. However, deputies did not allow her to keep the car. He was charged with receiving stolen goods. While Frye has a record of distributing drugs, possessing drugs and possessing stolen cars, justice court gave him a modest $50,000 bond. He has posted bond and been released.

Marlon Frye

Zachariah Combs, 49, of Natchez, was arrested by Adams County deputies for distributing drugs, a felony, and possessing counterfeit drugs. He is currently being held in jail. He served time in the past for drug possession and was charged with simple assault following a jail fight when he was previously serving time in the Adams County jail.  

Governor Tate Reeves is expected to sign a bill that would include Pike County in the Sixth District. The district currently includes Adams, Franklin, Wilkinson and Amite counties. The change will affect the jurisdiction of the chancery and circuit judges and district attorney. As of now Adams Couny is the population center for the district. With Pike added, the center of the district becomes the larger Pike County, with the smaller Amite County, which is often politically aligned with Pike. The change could affect the reelection efforts of Carmen Drake, Debra Blackwell and Tim Cotton. Normally, black majority sub districts are protected. But such protection is discriminatory and could be challenged.

 Cloverdale murder

Dr. Christian Pinnen, professor in the Department of History at Mississippi College, is coming  to Natchez to talk about the colonial Natchez District in an attempt to resurrect the stories of the enslaved and the role Atlantic Africans played in shaping the region.  Dr. Pinnen will present his lecture, "Race and Slavery in Colonial Natchez” at the Tuesday, April 22 meeting of the Natchez Historical Society at 108 S. Commerce St. The program is free to the public.  It will begin with a social at 5:30 p.m. and the presentation at 6 p.m.As European settlers began to explore the lower Mississippi Valley and displace Native American people to build settlements, the Europeans knew that they needed to generate profits to make it a worth while enterprise. Most, specifically in Natchez, believed that the key to success was rooted in the ability of settlers to purchase enslaved Africans and utilize their forced labor in their endeavor to build wealth. While the labor practice of racial slavery was well established in European colonial efforts, local settlers had to make sense of the African people among them in social and legal settings. Using Natchez as a lens, this talk explores how legal concepts around slavery create racial categories in Natchez.Dr. Pinnen’s research focuses on the American borderlands and the legal landscapes that gave rise to definitions of blackness and whiteness in the face of maturing slave societies. He specifically investigates the colonial Natchez District in an attempt to resurrect the stories of the enslaved and the role Atlantic Africans played in shaping the region.He has published two books: Complexion of Empire in Natchez and Colonial Mississippi. While Colonial Mississippi provides an exhaustive overview of Mississippi’s colonial past, Complexions of Empire in Natchez specifically investigates how the various definitions of race in Europe and the Americas influenced the way that slavery and the law developed in Natchez and, by extension, the colonial southern borderlands.Dr. Pinnen has won national and international research fellowships from the German Historical Institute, the LSU and University of Texas Libraries, and has presented his research in Europe and the US. He was selected as the Mississippi Humanities Teacher of the Year in 2019, and Complexion of Empire in Natchez won the 2021 Book of the Year Award from the Mississippi Historical Society. In 2024, he was named the Humanities Scholar of the Year by the Mississippi Humanities Council and Distinguished Professor of the Year at Mississippi College.The April 22 program is funded in part by a grant from the Mississippi Humanities Council, through funding by the National Endowment for the Humanities.  For more information, visit natchezhistoricalsociety.org or call 601-431-7737. Emails may be sent to info@natchezhistoricalsociety.org

Dan Gibson

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson said he is optimistic about the Tennessee company plans for a new shopping center near Walmart in Natchez. The company took out an option on the city owned land in 2024. Its goal is to secure enough leases from companies interested in coming to Natchez , so the firm can follow through and build. The mayor said he thinks Natchez is strong enough and large enough to support both the new shopping center near Walmart and the revitalized Tracetown Shopping. Center. 

 In early January, the CPSO Special Victims Unit began investigating an adult subject who was communicating with an Under Cover Profile online that he believed to be a minor. The subject engaged in conversations over several months about having a sexual relationship with the juvenile, making plans to meet, and sending explicit photos of himself to the juvenile. The subject had previously contacted the same Under Cover Profile in July 2024. After being made aware of a pending arrest, Joseph Cader, 40, of Olla, drove himself to the Concordia Parish Sheriff’s Office on Thursday, April 10, to turn himself over to authorities. At this time he was arrested, and booked into the Concordia Parish Correctional Facility. He is charged with two counts each of Indecent Behavior with Juveniles and Computer-Aided Solicitation of a Minor.   

Adams deputies arrested Justin Blackwell, 34 of Natchez, for trafficking drugs. His history of drugs goes back more than 10 years, with possession of drugs and possession of drugs within a church zone.   

Slight dip in sales tax

Natchez sales tax collections were $3.7 million from July through February, showing a decline of $100,000 from the previous year. The state shares sales tax collections with towns and cities and uses a fiscal year of July through June. 

Adam‘s deputies arrested Brandon White, 49, of Goldonna, Louisiana, for burglary of a dwelling. He is being held by Adams County authorities. White was formally arrested in Louisiana for aggravated arson in 2020. His current bond is set at $50,000.   

Adam supervisors hired Mitzi Conn to be their new county administrator. She has a Bachelor’s Degree in accounting from Southeast Louisiana University and worked for Callon Petroleum in accounting and finance. Twenty-one people applied for the job and supervisors voted 5-0 to hire her.

Bennie Thompson

Congressman Bennie Thompson will hold a town hall in Natchez on April 15 between 6 and 7 p.m. at New Beginnings Missionary Baptist Church on Triumph Lane.

The first quarter of the year is always lackluster for job numbers. Adams County reported 9,890 persons employed in February, up 20 jobs from January.

JCP Management asked the Ferriday Town Council to revise the 2022  increased the hourly rate for water-sewer workers from $20.50 per hour to $24.50 an hour. Aldermen voted to approve the request. The pay raise had been part of an earlier agreement.

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