GRANT PARISH, LA — A Winnfield Police Department detective was arrested Monday by the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office following an investigation into the alleged misuse of funds from a children’s charity organization.

Jessie Ray Phillips, 58, of Winnfield, faces charges of theft over $1,000, illegal transmission of monetary funds, and malfeasance in office, according to the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office.

Phillips, who served as a detective with the Winnfield Police Department, had organized a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization called “Save a Kid-Shop with a Cop,” which was established to help less-fortunate children in the community.

The organization actively solicited donations from the public with the stated purpose of using the contributed funds to assist children in need. However, the investigation conducted by the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office revealed that Phillips was allegedly withdrawing the donated money for personal use rather than directing it toward its intended charitable purpose.

The arrest represents a significant breach of public trust, as Phillips held a position of authority both as a law enforcement officer and as the organizer of what community members believed was a legitimate charitable organization dedicated to helping disadvantaged youth.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about oversight and accountability in charitable organizations, particularly those operated by public officials who are expected to maintain the highest ethical standards.

The investigation into the matter was conducted by the Grant Parish Sheriff’s Office. Additional details about the case have not been released at this time.

Phillips’ current employment status with the Winnfield Police Department was not immediately available.

The Winn Parish Journal is following this case and will report as information becomes available.