Deputy in Louisiana Charged with Theft and Malfeasance in Office After Allegedly Taking More than $5,000 in Court Fines and Fees

St John the Baptist Parish, Louisiana - St John the Baptist Parish Sheriff's Office reported on December 8, 2022, that a former civil deputy with their department was arrested on December 7, 2022, after it was discovered that she misappropriated more than $5,000 in court fines and fees over the course of two weeks while working as a clerk in the civil administration division.

La'Daysha Everson, 29, of Edgard, Louisiana was charged with theft and malfeasance in office after an investigation by the SJSO Criminal Investigations Division. Everson, who worked for the St John the Baptist Parish Sheriff's Office for three months, was terminated on Tuesday, December 6, 2022, after admitting to the charge and returning the over $5,000 in cash to investigators.

Sheriff Mike Tregre said, "Her actions are quite upsetting." "I am responsible for ensuring that our police adhere to the highest standards. Officer misconduct will not be allowed, and the St. John Sheriff's Office will always hold its employees accountable if misbehavior is uncovered."

The week prior, Everson's supervisor in civil administration identified irregularities in the processing and administration of court penalties and fees. Sheriff Tregre launched an investigation without delay. On the basis of their investigation, the detectives had sufficient probable cause to arrest Everson. She was arrested on 7 December 2022 and freed on a $15,000 bond the following day.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. A person is innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.