Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana – Derrick J. Cotlong, a 45-year-old resident of Calcasieu Parish, was found guilty on one count of Violation of a Protective Order-2nd Offense and two counts of Resisting an Officer with Force or Violence. The verdict was delivered on September 19th, following a trial that highlighted the importance of holding perpetrators of domestic violence accountable.
The case dates back to 2021, when the victim, who is now seven years old, received a lifetime protective order against Cotlong. The order prohibited Cotlong from approaching the victim, her school, or her residence within a 100-yard radius. However, in 2023, Cotlong disregarded the order by driving to the victim’s school in an attempt to see her.
Upon arrival, law enforcement officers detained Cotlong, who became verbally aggressive during the process. The incident led to Cotlong’s arrest and subsequent trial.
The Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case, with Assistant District Attorneys Jordan Sutterfield and Kadence Huber presenting the evidence. District Attorney Stephen Dwight expressed his satisfaction with the verdict, stating that it sends a strong message to victims of domestic violence that they will be supported and protected.
“Today is a win for victims of domestic violence,” Dwight said. “I hope today’s verdict shows domestic violence victims that we at the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s Office, see you, hear you, and will support you every step of the way. Domestic violence is not tolerated here in Calcasieu in any shape or form, and abusers will be held accountable for their actions.”
Cotlong is currently being held without bond and will face sentencing on February 7, 2025. The verdict marks a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts of the Calcasieu Parish District Attorney’s Office to combat domestic violence and protect its victims.