An altercation at Oberlin’s town hall resulted in charges of simple battery being filed against an employee.
Mayor Joseph “Moochie” Manuel said he could not comment on the incident. “It’s an internal matter I cannot speak on,” was his comment when asked about the altercation.
The incident report filed by the Allen Parish Sheriff’s Office indicated deputies responded to Oberlin Town Hall Wednesday, June 3, after a request was made for assistance.
The responding deputy spoke with Councilman Jonathan “Jay” Lewis who indicated he had come to the town hall to work on a problem with the water. Town Superintendent Daryl Reeves entered the building and yelled at Lewis according to what employees said. When Lewis turned to speak to Reeves, Reeves reportedly told the deputy he hit Lewis.
The report indicates Reeves believed he had been harassed earlier by Lewis but he couldn’t tell the deputy exactly what happened. Reeves did allegedly tell the deputy he became agitated, and this was why he fought Lewis.
As a result, the report indicates simple battery charges were issued against Reeves, 39, of Oberlin. Those charges were send to the district attorney’s office for review.
An investigation is underway by leaders of Oberlin.
