News

TexasNENAisproud to endorse Deputy Chief Phillip Daniels, ENP, CMCP for NENA — National Emergency Number Association 2nd Vice President!

Phillip brings nearly 30 years of dedicated public safety and 9–1–1 service, currently serving as Deputy Chief of the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office and Administrator of the DeSoto Parish Communications District. His career has spanned every level of emergency communications, from telecommunicator and supervisor to executive leadership — giving him a deep, first-hand understanding of the challenges we face every day.

If elected, Phillip plans to: Advocate for telecommunicator wellness and resilience

The audit report made by the Louisiana Legislative Auditor, which was for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2024, had five findings. The report was made by an External CPA.

The independent auditor found that the former clerk used public funds to pay attorney’s fees in a case that resulted in a personal civil penalty against him. In addition, the former clerk used $12,271 in public funds to pay for campaign consulting expenses in 2023. The clerk’s office also failed to maintain proper supporting documentation for expenses, failed to file its audit report with the Legislative Auditor’s office within the required time frame, and failed to ensure that all of the funds deposited in its bank accounts were secured by federal deposit insurance or the pledge of bank-owned securities, as required by law.

WHEREAS, the DeSoto Parish Police Jury has determined that extremely dry conditions and/or hazardous weather conditions presently exist within DeSoto Parish; and WHEREAS, these conditions create a significant fire hazard that threatens life and property; and WHEREAS, the DeSoto Parish Police Jury is authorized to take such action as necessary to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the citizens of DeSoto Parish.

NOW THEREFORE, BE IT PROCLAIMED, that Emergency Burn Ban is hereby issued for all areas of DeSoto Parish effective February 23, 2026 and shall remain in effect until rescinded by the DeSoto Parish Police Jury.

BE IT FURTHER PROCLAIMED that: 1. All outdoor burning is hereby prohibited 2. This prohibition includes, but is not limited to, burning of trash, leaves, limbs and yard debris.

Online Pre-K registration will open February 23rd. You can visit desotoreadystart.com and click on the “Registration” link to access the portal. The deadline for registration is May 31, 2026.

DeSoto Ready Start is having Early Childhood Roundup (PreK Registration) in person on April 23, 2026 at 7:30 a. m. — 12:00 p. m. at the DeSoto Administration Building (399 Jenkins St., Mansfield).

Students must be 4 years old by September 30, 2026 to register for PreK-4.

You will need the following documents to upload when you register: — Child’s birth certificate, social security card, and immunization record — Parent/Guardian’s current drivers license, electric bill, 2nd household bill, and last 2 check stubs for all adults in the household (if no Medicaid/ SNAP) For more information you may contact tina.anderson@ desotopsb.com or call the district office (318) 872–1198.

The DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office is conducting training today and tomorrow on Human Trafficking Awareness and Reporting led by Louisiana Child and Youth Trafficking Collaborative (LCYTC), for deputies and staff across multiple divisions.

This course includes personal testimonies and real-world case studies, providing insight into how trafficking occurs, how victims are identified, and how law enforcement can properly respond. In Louisiana, hundreds of traffickingrelated reports are made each year, and Interstate corridors throughout North Louisiana continue to make our region vulnerable to both labor and sex trafficking. Ongoing training ensures our deputies remain prepared to recognize warning signs, protect victims, and pursue offenders.

February 12 marked 6 years since Dy. Donna Richardson-Below was tragically and suddenly taken from us due to a motor vehicle incident in the early morning hours of Feb. 12, 2020. It was certainly a very difficult morning for so many, and one that DPSO employees will never forget.

When you walk the halls and offices of our agency, you will find that Donna’s memory and smile are evident still today, because she was and remains loved by so many. DPSO takes great pause today to remember Donna, her family, and the host of co-workers who were greatly affected by the void her absence has left in the lives of so many.

DeSoto Parish Fire District 8 would like to recognize our most recently certified and confirmed Firefighter/Operators now in full-time positions in the department. We would also like to recognize our most recently licensed Paramedics in our department. The four Paramedics are Nathaniel Boudreaux, Alex Tucker, Tyler Cassel, and Raymond Nolley. Our department now has four new firefighters and four additional Paramedics working full time. This is an incredible accomplishment by all employees and will provide our fire district and the parish with additional personnel and skills to provide exceptional public safety services. DeSoto Parish Fire District 8 currently has 22 fully certified firefighters, with five licensed as Paramedics, one AEMT, and 14 EMTs, with two in the process of finishing EMT and three more in the process of completing Paramedic training. The district also employees several certified parttime firefighters from across the area to help maintain staffing.

Mansfield Main Branch Manager Mrs. Doris Ross has curated a truly inspiring Black History Month display that invites patrons to reflect, learn, and celebrate. February marks Black History Month — a time to honor the achievements, resilience, and lasting impact of Black Americans, past and present.

Throughout February, all DeSoto Parish Library locations are featuring special exhibits highlighting the accomplishments of African American leaders, writers, artists, and cultural icons.

These thoughtfully designed displays showcase powerful stories that have shaped our community, our culture, and our nation.

Visitors of all ages are encouraged to explore the exhibits, take part in interactive activities, and discover stories of perseverance, creativity, and leadership. Each library location offers meaningful opportunities to learn, reflect, and celebrate the contributions of Black Americans throughout history.

On Friday, January 23rd, Captain Angela Bandy of the DeSoto Parish Sheriff’s Office Investigations Division was unexpectedly honored for a lifetime of service and advocacy.

The FREE Coalition to End Human Trafficking in Northwest Louisiana held their annual Human Trafficking Awareness Month Proclamation and Awards Ceremony at the Margaritaville Resort and Casino, where three very well-deserved awards were presented. Among those recognized was our own Investigations Captain, Angela Bandy, who was acknowledged for her “amazing and heroic anti-trafficking work in law enforcement.”

As DPSB wraps up National School Board Recognition Month, we proudly recognize District 11 Board Member Rosie Mayweather for her dedicated service to our students, families, and community. Thank you for making The DeSoto Parish Difference!