By Lt. Charles Curry

The Winnfield Police Department has always had a special connection with the Lafayette Police Department as a lot of our training is hosted by them.  Our hearts and prayers go out to the loss of one of theirs, Senior Corporal Segus Jolivette.  

Cpl Jolivette, age 35, has served for over 14 years in both Opelousas and Lafayette.  He had served in several positions including SRP, Explorer Program, and the Lafayette SWAT/Negotiating Team. He is survived by his wife and 5 children.

As a member of SWAT, this team responded to a hostage situation in Jeanerette at the Jeanerette Police Department’s request to assist in negotiating a wanted fugitive barricaded with 2 hostages.  After hours of negotiations failed, the team breached the barricaded residence to rescue hostages.  During the breach, the suspect opened fire shooting and injuring several officers including Cpl. Jolivette.  The hostages were rescued, and the suspect taken into custody unharmed. Cpl. Jolivette, however, did not survive his injuries.

Winnfield Police Officers Cassiday Martin and Deontrey Means represented this department at his funeral on Thursday, August 1.  Officer Martin felt the loss personally as he is scheduled to train with their SWAT in November and had been talking with this officer about the upcoming training.

 The Winnfield Police Department sends its condolences and prayers to the Jolivette family and the Lafayette Police Department.  Cpl. Segus Jolivette, End of Watch 7/25/2024—Godspeed.