St. Landry Parish, Louisiana - An Opelousas Police Department sergeant faces domestic abuse battery charges following an off-duty incident at Evangeline Downs Racetrack and Casino.

Romalis Thomas, 39, surrendered to authorities at the St. Landry Parish Jail on April 21 after the Louisiana State Police Gaming Enforcement Division obtained an arrest warrant from the 27th Judicial District Court.

The investigation began when Opelousas Police Chief Graig Leblanc requested assistance from state police regarding a domestic violence incident that allegedly occurred on April 20 outside the casino.

"I have requested the Louisiana State Police to conduct this investigation to uphold transparency and reinforce the trust our community places in us," Leblanc said in a statement.

Thomas has been placed on administrative leave pending an internal investigation, according to department policy.

Domestic abuse battery, defined under Louisiana Revised Statute 14:35.3, involves battery committed by one household member or dating partner against another. Penalties vary depending on prior offenses and case specifics.

The Louisiana State Police encourages those experiencing domestic abuse to seek help through local law enforcement or the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE (7233). The agency also maintains a secure online reporting system for suspicious activities at https://speed-online.dps.la.gov/SuspiciousActivity/SAR.

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.