Accusations of Witness Tampering at Bogalusa Special Session

Bogalusa, LA (January 19, 2024)- In the wake of the tragic shooting at Bogalusa High School last Thursday, the community faced heightened emotions during a special session on gun violence called by Mayor Tyrin Truong on Thursday, January 18th. The incident claimed the life of 14-year-old Deryon Jackson, an athlete and talented art student.

During the session, Christa Oree, the aunt of the victim, brought forth startling allegations against Councilwoman Gloria Kates. Oree claimed that Kates had visited the homes of teenagers to question potential witnesses related to the recent shooting. Kates responded saying that she was acting under the guidance of Bogalusa Acting Assistant Police Chief Troy Tervalon and Dana Walker. Tervalon denied the accusations.

In a surprising turn of events, Councilwoman Kates openly admitted on live camera to engaging in such activities. She revealed that she was accompanied by her husband, Thomas Kates, as well as fellow Councilwoman Tamira Moss Smith and Smith's brother Damien Moss. The revelation added fuel to an already tense atmosphere within the special session. When questioned further by Oree, Kates responded that she would be speaking with an attorney. Watch the exchange here at the 4:06:15 mark.

Notably absent from the session was Councilwoman-At-Large Tamira Moss Smith. Smith has faced backlash from the community. Smith's oldest son, Jordan Smith, was arrested earlier in the year by the Bogalusa Police Department in connection with another teen shooting in early 2023. The arrest occurred at the home of Councilwoman Smith, where authorities seized firearms.

If these accusations are true, it brings into question various violations of state and federal law, potentially including witness tampering and obstruction of justice. Outside the session, other parents seemed to confirm that their children had been questioned by the pair of councilwomen.

With emotions running high and the community grappling with the aftermath of both the school shooting and the revelations at the special session, Bogalusa faces a challenging period as residents seek answers and justice for the tragic loss of Deryon Jackson. The unfolding events have cast a spotlight on the actions of city officials, prompting calls for transparency and accountability in the pursuit of justice.