An investigation into random shots fired has led to several arrests by the Oakdale Police Department.
Investigators with the department, in conjunction with members of the Rapides Sheriff’s Office have been investigating the usage of guns in the city. The evidence brought the officers to four suspects from Glenmora and one from Oakdale.
Chief Chad Doyle said the department took four men from Glenmora into custody – Trent Wright, B/M, 22; Xavier Wright, B/M, 20; Marques Thompson, B/M, 19; and Christopher Kittling, B/M, 20. They were all charged with criminal conspiracy, inciting a felony, terrorizing and terrorism.
Cornell Brown, B/M, 22, of Oakdale, was charged on October 6, with violation of uniform CDS (controlled dangerous substance) law in a drug free zone with penalties for felony violations of 40:966 – 40:970, possession of firearm by a felon, possession of a firearm with CDS, possession of CDS Schedule I, criminal conspiracy, inciting a felony, terrorizing and terrorism.
Doyle said the department’s investigative team worked endless hours to put the case together working to show a pattern of violence and visiting with the district attorney’s office. He said some of the evidence came from rap videos where the suspects are confessing in music to what occurred on the streets.
Authorities are also dealing with juveniles who are identifying with a gang known as TDG (Take Down Gang). He said they recently arrested five boys and girls, between 14 and 17, and charged them with assault on a school teacher, cruelty to the infirmed, criminal trespassing and illegal possession of a handgun by a juvenile. They are also facing charges related to drugs and weapons being brought into a drug free zone.
Doyle said officers met with District Attorney Joe Green’s Office and the Office of Juvenile Justice. These juveniles will be spending some time in custody.
The investigation is ongoing. More arrests are pending. Chief Doyle said anyone with information or needs assistance can call 9-1-1 or the department at (318) 335-0290.
