Officer charged with theft, malfeasance

Acadia Parish Sheriff Wayne Melancon announced that investigators with his department have arrested a 30-year-old Crowley man following an investigation into a theft that was reported at the Iota Police Department.

According to Melancon, his office was contacted earlier this month by Iota Police Chief Scotty Pousson, who requested that the sheriff’s office conduct an investigation into missing weapons from the evidence room. 

Following an investigation, into the incident, a warrant of arrest was issued for Daniel Broussard, of Crowley. 

Broussard is a full-time officer with the Iota Police Department. 

Broussard was charged with theft of money, malfeasance in office and felony theft of several weapons. His bond was set at $15,000 by District Judge Kristian Earles.

In an unrelated matter, Melancon reported that the Acadia Parish Sheriff’s Office Reserves logged 7,961 hours of service for the 2013 calendar year. 

Melancon stated that there are currently 27 commissioned officers with his department each being required to volunteer a certain number of hours each month. 

These officers are required and do receive the same training as full-time officers and must meet all the same requirements. 

The reserve officers perform duties such as patrolling the parish, transportation of prisoners and those individuals who are committed, security at fairs and festivals as well as security duties for the 15th Judicial District Courts. 

The commander, Cliff Oestricher, thanked those individuals and groups who have shown their appreciation for the services these officers provide to the parish.