Mother Nature threw Plaquemines Parish a curveball this year, but May is the month speckled trout anglers should hit it out of the park.
A cooperative investigation involving the Louisiana State Police (LSP) Bureau of Investigation/North District, the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF) Enforcement Division and the LaSalle Parish Sheriff’s Office, has resulted in the arrest of an LDWF enforcement agent and three others in LaSalle Parish.
The two-month long investigation began at the request of LDWF based on information received that an agent was involved in illegal drug trafficking in LaSalle Parish. The joint investigation focused on the agent, Melvin B. McDowell, and other individuals who were allegedly distributing methamphetamine and marijuana in the area.
LSP Troop E Troopers conducted two traffic stops April 25 on LA Hwy. 8 (LaSalle Parish), which resulted in four arrests and the seizure of approximately 1/4 ounce of methamphetamine and a small amount of marijuana. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed at a residence in rural LaSalle Parish that resulted in the seizure of approximately 1/2 pound of marijuana and assorted scheduled pharmaceutical drugs (Xanax and Hydrocodone).
The suspects arrested and booked into the LaSalle Parish Jail without incident included: Melvin B. McDowell, 49, Jena, arrested for distribution of methamphetamine, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, possession of schedule III-controlled dangerous substance, and malfeasance in office; Douglas Love, 54, Jena, possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, and obstruction of justice; Michael Owens, 49, Jena, distribution of marijuana, possession of marijuana with intent to distribute; and Teresa Cater, 42, Jena, possession of marijuana, possession of schedule IV-controlled dangerous substance.
McDowell has been placed on administrative leave pending further disciplinary action.