Natchitoches, LA (11/14/2025) – The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Impact Unit reached its 100th arrest during a parish-wide operation. Deputies made four arrests and seized illegal narcotics and firearms, according to Sheriff Stuart Wright.
Sheriff Wright formed the Impact Unit to reduce gun violence, narcotics crimes, thefts, wanted persons, and traffic offenses. The team includes members from multiple NPSO divisions.
On November 7, 2025, Impact deputies stopped a pickup on La. Hwy 494 for equipment violations. Deputies identified the driver as Johnny R. Watley, age 39. A records check showed a suspended license and three outstanding warrants.
When asked about illegal items, Watley disclosed a firearm on the floorboard. Deputies obtained consent to search the truck. During the search, deputies seized a 9mm handgun, a .22 rifle, gummies suspected to contain kratom, and 7.8 ounces of suspected kratom.
Kratom is a Schedule I narcotic in Louisiana. Its effects range from stimulation to opioid-like responses. Kratom remains illegal in the state.
Deputies arrested Watley and booked him into the detention center. He faces charges including possession of Schedule I narcotics and illegal carrying of firearms with drugs. Watley admitted ownership of the evidence.
Later that evening, Impact deputies stopped a Camaro on La. Hwy 1 near Derry. Deputies identified the driver as Ashton D. Phillips, age 22. Deputies confirmed an active protective order against Phillips, with the protected party seated inside the car.
Deputies arrested Phillips without incident. Phillips was charged with violating a protective order.
At 10:19 p.m., deputies stopped a Chevrolet Impala on La. Hwy 1 near Cloutierville. Deputies identified the driver as Regis Howard, age 33. Deputies saw suspected marijuana in plain view. A probable cause search led to the seizure of 7 grams of suspected marijuana.
Deputies issued Howard a criminal summons for possession of CDS I. Howard was released pending court. A mugshot was unavailable.
Minutes later, deputies stopped a 2004 Pontiac on La. Hwy 1 at Derry. Deputies identified the occupants, including Dominique S. Phillips, age 42. Deputies detected marijuana odor. A probable cause search led to the seizure of over 2 ounces of suspected high-grade marijuana.
A records check showed Phillips was wanted in Texas. Phillips admitted ownership of the seized drugs and was booked on possession of CDS I (second offense) and fugitive charges.
Deputies will send all evidence to the crime lab for testing.
Major J. Byles stated these arrests marked the 100th arrest by the Impact Unit this year. The team also issued 195 citations, seized multiple firearms and narcotics, and recovered stolen property. Information gathered during operations has led to additional cases.
Sheriff Wright praised the deputies’ work. He said the ongoing success reflects strong dedication and proactive policing. He believes each arrest improves public safety across Natchitoches Parish.
Anyone observing suspicious activity should contact the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office at 318-357-7851 or 318-352-6432.
“ALL PERSONS ARE PRESUMED INNOCENT UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY IN A COURT OF LAW OR ADMINISTRATIVE ACTION.”
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