Joint Investigation Leads to Four Arrests in Rapides Parish

News

Press release

For immediate release: November 2, 2026

RAPIDES PARISH, La. — October 25, 2026 — Investigators with the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF), Enforcement Division, working in coordination with agents from the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries (LDWF), participated in a joint operation in Rapides Parish on October 24 that resulted in four arrests and 36 citations.

The operation stemmed from an ongoing LDAF investigation into suspected timber theft and property damage involving the unauthorized cutting and removal of timber from private property. Investigators also developed information concerning the processing and potential sale of the timber to a commercial purchaser.

As the investigation progressed, LDAF coordinated with LDWF to address suspected nighttime hunting violations in the area. During surveillance on October 24, investigators and agents observed individuals allegedly engaged in nighttime hunting from a motor vehicle. A subsequent traffic stop resulted in the recovery of an antlerless deer and the seizure of six firearms. Four individuals were arrested in connection with the operation.

As part of the LDAF investigation, the following individuals were cited:

• Edward L. Randall, 67, of Lena: Theft of Timber (felony), Simple Criminal Damage to Property and Criminal Trespass.

• Regina G. Randall, 62, of Lena: Theft of Timber (felony), Simple Criminal Damage to Property and Criminal Trespass.

• Jessica D. Morehead, 40, of Eunice: Simple Criminal Damage to Property and Criminal Trespass.

LDAF appreciates the cooperation and assistance of LDWF in this investigation. The partnership between the agencies is important to protecting Louisiana's natural resources, supporting private landowners and enforcing the laws that safeguard our state's forests and wildlife.

The investigation remains ongoing.

All individuals are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.