Baton Rouge, Louisiana - A Louisiana State Police (LSP) trooper has been charged with two counts of simple battery following a physical altercation at a football game between LSU and UCLA. The incident occurred during the game when law enforcement responded to a disturbance in the stands.

According to reports, the off-duty trooper, identified as 30-year-old Artellus Bellard, initiated the physical battery after a verbal argument with two male subjects. Bellard, who is assigned to Troop D Patrol and has been with the LSP since 2021, was released on a summons with a pending court date.

Simple battery is a misdemeanor offense in Louisiana, defined as intentionally causing bodily harm to another person. In this case, Bellard allegedly used physical force against the two male subjects, leading to the charges.

The LSP has stated that no further information is available at this time, pending the completion of the criminal and administrative process.

An arrest is an indication that probable cause exists to believe the subject was involved in the offense alleged. All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.