Lake Charles, Louisiana - A Lake Charles man was convicted of manslaughter Wednesday in connection with a fatal shooting that occurred in April 2024.
Kylon T. Rogers, 22, was found guilty by a jury in the death of Craig Declouiet Jr. The verdict was announced on September 24, 2025, following prosecution by the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney's Office.
According to court records, Rogers shot and killed Declouiet in April 2024.
Manslaughter is a felony charge that typically involves the unlawful killing of another person without malice aforethought. This distinguishes it from murder charges, which require proof of premeditation or intent to kill.
The case was prosecuted by Chief of Litigation Charles Robinson and Assistant District Attorney Jordan Sutterfield, representing the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney's Office.
Rogers is scheduled to appear for sentencing on November 12, 2025, before Judge Lee Hoffoss. The court will determine the appropriate punishment based on Louisiana sentencing guidelines for manslaughter convictions.
Manslaughter convictions in Louisiana can carry significant prison sentences, with penalties varying based on factors such as the defendant's criminal history and specific circumstances of the case.
The conviction represents the conclusion of the criminal trial phase, though Rogers may have options for appeal following his sentencing hearing next month.
