Winnfield Police Department Arrest Report

October 6, 2026
Bennett Barnes, of Winnfield, was arrested for criminal trespassing and possession with intent to distribute Schedule I.

October 7, 2026
Casey Estes, 40, of Dodson, was arrested for criminal trespassing.
Richard Foquo, 48, of Winnfield, was arrested for direct contempt of court.

October 8, 2026
Andrew Smith, 43, was arrested for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, illegal use of dangerous weapons, and aggravated second-degree battery.

October 9, 2026
Billy Finn, 29, of Winnfield, was arrested for criminal trespassing, simple criminal damage to property, and possession of drug paraphernalia.

October 13, 2026
Robert Snelling, 42, of Winnfield, was arrested for criminal trespassing.


Winn Community Health Center Named 2026 Business of the Year

By Journal Staff

The Winn Chamber of Commerce has named Winn Community Health Center its 2026 Business of the Year, honoring the health care provider for its ongoing service and investment in Winn Parish.

Health center leadership expressed gratitude following the announcement, emphasizing that the honor reflects the dedication of its staff and the trust of the local community.

“This recognition means so much to our entire organization,” the health center said in a statement. “Every day, our team works to make a positive difference in the lives of our patients and the community we are proud to serve.”

The organization extended its appreciation to staff members, patients and regional supporters, noting that the annual award represents a shared achievement across the parish.

“To our dedicated employees, our patients who trust us with their care, and the community that continues to support us, thank you,” the center stated. “This award belongs to all of you.”

Winn Community Health Center reaffirmed its long-term commitment to expanding health care access throughout the area, adding that it remains proud to call Winn Parish home as it continues to grow and invest in community wellness.

About Trinity CHC

Founded in 2009, Trinity Community Health Center is a Federally Qualified Health Center delivering primary, dental, and behavioral health care across six Central Louisiana parishes and more than 30 area schools. The center leverages modern health technology, including electronic records and an online patient portal, to ensure accessible, high-quality care throughout the region.


Sometimes You Need More Than a Credit Score — You Need a Conversation

For many people, applying for a loan can feel like being reduced to a number.

A credit score may be part of the lending process, but it does not always tell the full story of a person’s financial situation.

Someone may have experienced a job change, medical expense, divorce, unexpected repair or other setback that affected their credit. Another person may simply have a limited credit history because they have not used traditional financial products very often.

That does not mean their current financial need is any less real.

Better Finance believes that is why a conversation still matters.

For more than 60 years, the company has worked with customers in Northwest Louisiana by taking the time to understand why they need financing, what their circumstances are and whether a loan can be structured appropriately.

That personal approach can be especially important for people who feel overlooked by larger or more automated financial systems.

Today, many lending decisions begin online. An applicant enters information, a computer reviews the data and a decision may be made with little or no personal interaction.

Technology can make financial services more convenient, but convenience and understanding are not always the same thing.

Sometimes a borrower needs the opportunity to explain the situation.

Perhaps a vehicle needs to be repaired so someone can continue getting to work.

Perhaps several existing payments have become difficult to manage.

Perhaps a family faces a medical expense, school expense or household need that was not part of the monthly budget.

The circumstances can be very different from one customer to the next.

Better Finance’s approach is to begin by listening.

That conversation does not guarantee that every loan will be approved. Responsible lending requires evaluating whether a loan is appropriate and whether the borrower can reasonably handle the repayment.

But it does mean the customer has an opportunity to discuss the need with someone who understands that financial lives are rarely as simple as a single number on a report.

For consumers who do not have a strong relationship with a traditional bank or financial institution, that conversation can be particularly valuable.

A past financial problem does not necessarily describe where someone is today.

A limited credit history does not necessarily describe someone’s ability to work, earn an income or meet future obligations.

And an unexpected financial need does not always arrive at a convenient time.

Better Finance has built its business around personal relationships and local lending, with financing available for qualified borrowers for a variety of needs.

The first step does not have to be complicated.

Sometimes it simply starts with explaining what you need and asking what options may be available.

Better Finance: Let’s Have a Conversation.

To learn more about Better Finance and its lending options, visit CoushattaFinance.com or contact the Better Finance office in Coushatta.

This is a paid advertorial provided on behalf of Better Finance. Loan approval, terms and availability are subject to Better Finance lending requirements and applicable laws.


Winnfield aiming to keep train rolling at Lakeside

When a team on a two-game losing streak enters district play with the first two games on the road, it could spell trouble.

But Winnfield put all those fears to rest this past week when they thumped Red River by a score of 68-39.

Now the Tigers (4-2, 1-0 District 4-2A) will look to capitalize on that momentum when they hit the road for the final time this season in a Week 7 trip to Lakeside (3-3, 0-1).

The Warriors, coached by the North Webster veteran John Ware, have beaten teams they are supposed to with big victories over North Caddo, Plain Dealing, and East Beauregard.

But they bumped their heads on their ceiling in the first week of district play in a 42-15 loss at reigning district champion Mansfield.

Now Winnfield wants to move into that district title discussion, and a second road win would put the Tigers in that conversation.

Winnfield’s Wing-T rushing attack steamrolled Red River with the Tigers’ rushing yards likely topping 400 yards (no official stats available).

The young running back corps impressed as Preston Wilson burst on the scene in his first career start with three touchdowns and around 200 yards while Braylen Butler also crossed the 100-yard mark.

Wilson, Butler and Kenneth Richard are all sophomores, although Richard left the game with a leg injury after scoring his one touchdown.

Add Dalton Powell in the mix, who also scored a touchdown in picking up Richard’s work load.

Quarterback Nickalas Mockosher got in on the action with two rushing scores of his own, including a 50-yard quarterback sneak in which he sliced through the Red River defense.

Winnfield’s defense, who had handcuffed opponents not named Jena pretty well this season, did surrender 39 points to Red River, the Bulldogs’ season high.

The Tigers didn’t have an answer for Lathyn Lewis, who scored five touchdowns, including one punt return for a touchdown.

Winnfield did force three turnovers and several other failed fourth-down conversions to keep Red River from getting close.

Lakeside doesn’t have someone like Lewis, but the Warriors can grind out touchdowns with efficient drives while their stout defense has held five of its six opponents to 24 or fewer points.

Whomever wins third and fourth down and forces more turnovers is the likely winner.

Winnfield moved up into home playoff territory at No. 13 in the Division III Non-Select rankings while Lakeside is seeking to improve its No. 21 standing.


LDWF clarifies suppressor rules for hunters following federal policy shifts

BATON ROUGE, La. — Louisiana hunters using firearm suppressors will not face state penalties for lacking federal tax stamps or registration papers following recent changes to federal law, wildlife officials announced Monday.

The Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries issued guidance clarifying how enforcement agents will address suppressors in the field after major federal shifts removed long-standing registration mandates.

Congress recently reduced the federal tax on suppressors to $0, and a federal court in Texas ruled in August that the federal government could no longer enforce specific registration requirements. On Oct. 9, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives announced it would no longer require agency approval or registration to possess a suppressor.

While Louisiana state law permits hunters to use suppressors, state statutes previously relied on the federal tax stamp as proof that the device was possessed legally.

LDWF officials said enforcement agents will adjust their field inspections accordingly. Agents will not cite hunters or seize equipment simply because an individual does not possess an ATF tax stamp or registration paperwork, provided the suppressor is legally owned and attached to a firearm permitted for the active hunting season.

Officials emphasized that standard hunting regulations and restrictions remain in effect. Agents will continue checking licenses, harvest tags, season dates, legal hunting hours, bag limits and approved methods of take.

Key rules that remain unchanged include:

  • Suppressors remain legal for taking game birds, wild quadrupeds, outlaw quadrupeds, nutria and beaver.
  • Firearms must still meet legal specifications for the specific season and game pursued; attaching a suppressor does not make an otherwise illegal firearm lawful.
  • Individuals legally prohibited from possessing firearms may not possess suppressors.
  • Anyone convicted of a class four or greater hunting violation remains barred from hunting with a suppressor for five years following the conviction date.
  • Machine guns remain fully regulated under federal law.

Hunters with questions or seeking local contact information for enforcement agents may visit wlf.louisiana.gov/page/contact-local-law-enforcement.


AN OPEN LETTER: Celebrating Community, Culture and Dolly Parton in Natchitoches

By Journal Staff

There is something truly magical about bringing Louisiana communities together to celebrate what makes our state so vibrant, welcoming and unique.

Over the past few weeks, the Parish Journals of Louisiana had the privilege of partnering with Paige Alost and the Natchitoches Parish Tourist and Convention Commission, alongside Rebecca Blankenbaker and the Cane River National Heritage Area, to help promote a one-of-a-kind regional celebration: Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend: Natchitoches Celebrates Dolly Parton.

From the moment planning began, our mission was simple: rally readers from across North and Central Louisiana and share the charm, history, and warmth of Natchitoches.

Today, we could not be prouder of the overwhelming response.

Throughout the multi-week promotional campaign, our readers answered the call in record numbers:

  • Over 1.29 million total impressions were delivered across our 16 digital Parish Journals, connecting community members to the spirit and schedule of the festival.
  • More than 1 million views greeted readers on topboard banners across every single news article published in our network.
  • Nearly 300,000 in-depth reads were logged on our dedicated feature advertorials exploring the weekend’s itinerary and the rich heritage of Cane River country.
  • More than 4,400 verified, non-duplicated entries were submitted by readers eager to win the exclusive $600 Dolly Parton Weekend Getaway package.

Beyond the numbers, what stood out most was the enthusiasm of our neighbors. Whether reading in Lincoln, Webster, Rapides, Jackson, Shreveport-Bossier, or right at home in Natchitoches Parish, readers embraced the chance to support and visit a premier Louisiana destination.

Events like Truvy’s Blush & Bashful Weekend demonstrate the enduring spirit of local community. Partnering with dedicated leaders like Paige Alost and Rebecca Blankenbaker reminds us of the power of collaboration between local tourism organizations and local community journalism.

To the Natchitoches Parish Tourist and Convention Commission and the Cane River National Heritage Area: thank you for trusting us to help tell your story. And to our readers across Louisiana: thank you for supporting community events and continuing to make our parish news network your daily home.

We were honored to play a part in this unforgettable celebration—and we look forward to many more to come.


Winnfield Police Department Arrest Report

September 30, 2026
JaKobi Sherman, 22, of Winnfield, was arrested for aggravated assault with a firearm.

October 3, 2026
Andrew Smith, 43, (homeless), was arrested for criminal trespassing and criminal damage to property.
Joda Rhone, of Winnfield, was arrested for disturbing the peace (violent and tumultuous manner).
McKelvey N. Rhone, 23, of Winnfield, was arrested for disturbing the peace (violent and tumultuous manner).

October 6, 2026
Joshua Shell, 35, of Winnfield, was arrested for disturbing the peace.


Winnfield Man Arrested After Shooting, Overnight Manhunt

A Winnfield man is in custody facing multiple felony charges following an overnight manhunt that began after a shooting on Oct. 1, according to the Winnfield Police Department.

Andrew Smith, 43, of Winnfield, was arrested and booked into the Winnfield City Jail. He faces charges of aggravated battery, aggravated second-degree battery, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, criminal damage to property, and trespassing.

Officers initially responded Oct. 1 to the Winn Parish Medical Center emergency room after receiving a report of a gunshot victim. The victim, identified as Michael Foster, 35, of Winnfield, told investigators he had been pistol-whipped in the head and shot in the arm during an altercation in an open field between Hodges and Halsey streets. Foster identified Smith as his assailant before being transferred to another medical facility, where he remains hospitalized in stable condition.

Investigators processed the scene of the shooting and launched a search for Smith, who is believed to be unhoused and frequently transient. Officers learned Smith had fled the area on a bicycle, which police later recovered at a residence on Lucky Avenue.

Believing the suspect had barricaded himself inside, Winnfield police requested assistance from outside law enforcement agencies to surround and secure the home. After several unsuccessful attempts to establish contact, officers entered the residence and determined Smith had already fled.

The search continued through the night, with officers checking numerous abandoned properties based on community tips. During the early morning hours, police responded to a resident’s report of suspicious noises coming from a neighboring abandoned house on South Jones Street. Officers entered the structure and took Smith into custody without incident.

Winnfield Police Chief Johnny Ray Carpenter commended the agencies that assisted in the search and credited community members for helping resolve the situation safely.

“Chief Carpenter extends his sincere appreciation to the Winn Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, and especially to the citizens who provided timely tips to the department,” the agency said. “Their cooperation led to Smith’s capture without further danger to the community.”


Winn Parish Residents Encouraged to Wear Purple on October 15 for Domestic Violence Awareness

In recognition of October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month, the Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART) of Winn Parish is calling on the community to participate in National Wear Purple Thursday on October 15.

Winn Parish residents, businesses, and schools are encouraged to wear purple—the international color of domestic violence awareness—to show their solidarity with survivors, honor those who have been lost, and raise awareness about the impact of domestic abuse in the community.

“Wearing purple is a simple but powerful way to show survivors that they are not alone and that our community stands against domestic violence,” said Annie Goods, DART DV Survivor Advocate. “We want to fill Winn Parish with purple on October 15 to spark conversations, raise awareness, and let everyone know that help is available.”

DART-Winn Parish invites everyone participating to share their photos to help spread the message. Community members can submit their pictures wearing purple by phone, email, or by tagging Annie Goods on Facebook and Instagram.

Whether it is a t-shirt, a scarf, a wristband, or a tie, any visible purple makes a difference. DART encourages workplaces, faith groups, and school classrooms to take group photos to show their collective support.

The Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART) is dedicated to “Helping Keep Families Safe” by providing shelter, advocacy, resources, and support to victims and survivors of domestic violence.

For more information about National Wear Purple Thursday, to submit photos, or to access domestic violence resources and support, please contact Annie Goods at (318) 648-0559 or connect via social media.

About DART

The Domestic Abuse Resistance Team (DART) provides safety, advocacy, and support services to victims of domestic violence and their children, while work to educate the community to end domestic abuse.


Top of the Boot Brings Country Music, Community and a New Tradition to Northwestern State

The inaugural festival brings 10 artists and two nights of country music to Natchitoches as Northwestern State University launches an annual event with ambitions to become North Louisiana’s premier music festival. Get your tickets now at topofthebootmusicfest.com.

By Cole Gentry, Chief Marketing Officer at Northwestern State University

On Oct. 16 and 17, Northwestern State University will welcome country music fans, alumni, students, families and visitors to Natchitoches for the inaugural Top of the Boot Music Festival. The two-day event will bring established country stars, rising artists and Louisiana talent to the NSU campus for a fall weekend centered on live music, good times and the people you want beside you.

Friday, Oct. 16, opens with co-headliners Lee Brice and Louisiana native Dylan Scott.

Brice brings a catalog that includes eight No. 1 country singles and songs such as “I Drive Your Truck,” “I Don’t Dance,” “Hard to Love” and “One of Them Girls.” Scott returns to his home state with four No. 1 songs on the U.S. Country Airplay charts, including “My Girl,” “New Truck,” “Can’t Have Mine” and “This Town’s Been Too Good to Us.”

Lanie Gardner, Jackson Wendell and Clay LaBeff complete Friday’s lineup.

Saturday, Oct. 17, features Flatland Cavalry as the night’s headliner. The Texas Country and Americana group has earned three ACM Group of the Year nominations from 2024 through 2026. Ian Munsick, Rodney Atkins, Laine Hardy and Bottomland round out Saturday’s lineup.

Across two nights, 10 artists will take the stage at Northwestern State.

The reach of Top of the Boot extends well beyond Natchitoches. Marketing for the festival stretches across a multi-state region from Little Rock, Arkansas, to Jackson, Mississippi, south to New Orleans, Louisiana and west to Houston and Dallas, Texas.

That reach reflects the scale of the vision. Top of the Boot is being built as an annual destination event with the goal of becoming North Louisiana’s premier music festival, bringing country music fans from across Louisiana, Arkansas, Mississippi and Texas to Natchitoches each fall.

The festival will take place behind the NSU Soccer Complex along Tarleton Drive. Food trucks, vendors and two nights of performances will create a place for friends, families and loved ones to spend a fall weekend together.

For alumni, it is a reason to come home. For prospective students and families, it is another way to experience Northwestern State. For visitors, it is an invitation to spend time on campus and in Natchitoches while enjoying one of North Louisiana’s largest new entertainment events.

Northwestern State Athletics also has a direct stake in the festival’s success. The event was created to benefit NSU student-athletes while showcasing the university and Natchitoches to visitors from across the region.

Every annual tradition has a first year. For Top of the Boot, that year is 2026. Bring your friends. Bring your family. Come back to NSU or experience our campus for the first time. Spend two nights with some of country music’s biggest names and be there at the beginning of something built to return year after year.

Top of the Boot Music Festival
Oct. 16-17, 2026
Northwestern State University
Natchitoches, Louisiana

General admission and VIP options are available. Get your tickets now at topofthebootmusicfest.com.


Natchitoches: Office Building for Lease

Office Building for Lease:

Size: 1 story / 1,300 Square Feet (approx.). New Driveway, paint inside/out, new flooring and blinds.
Term: Lease – 1 year minimum
Lease Rate: $2,500.00

Location: 301 Church Street, Natchitoches, Louisiana

For more information and/or a showing, please contact, 318-471-9955

Serious Inquiries Only


Winner Chosen from Over 4,400 Entries in Dolly Parton Weekend Getaway

Donna Arender of Webster Parish has been named the grand prize winner of the Dolly Parton Weekend Getaway to Natchitoches, organizers announced Monday.

The $600 getaway package includes $300 in food cards, $200 in travel cash, and a $100 gas card to fund a weekend trip to Louisiana’s oldest city.

The popular promotion drew more than 4,400 entries from residents across Louisiana. Participating entries represented 27 parishes statewide: Acadia, Allen, Avoyelles, Beauregard, Bienville, Bossier, Caddo, Calcasieu, Caldwell, Claiborne, De Soto, East Baton Rouge, Evangeline, Grant, Jackson, Jefferson Davis, Lafayette, LaSalle, Lincoln, Natchitoches, Orleans, Ouachita, Rapides, Red River, Sabine, St. Landry, St. Martin, St. Tammany, Terrebonne, Union, Vernon, Webster, and Winn.

Organizers expressed appreciation to the thousands of readers who participated and congratulated Donna Arender of Webster Parish on winning the weekend retreat.