ALEXANDRIA, La. (UrbanCast: 9/22/20260) — Two months after Rapides Parish Sheriff Mark Wood heard residents’ neighborhood safety concerns, his office returned Monday with another step toward addressing them.
RPSO Cpl. Jamie Marks, a resident deputy with the Enforcement Division, met with Samtown and Woodside residents. She distributed forms asking what deputies should know about their neighborhoods.
Marks emphasized the importance of reporting problems.
“If you don’t report it, it’s the same as if it didn’t happen,” Marks told residents.
She reminded residents to call 911 for emergencies. However, she also encouraged them to contact RPSO at 318-473-6700 with other neighborhood concerns.
Marks also provided her direct number, 318-229-8003, and email, jmarks@rpso.la.gov.
Residents discussed speeding near school bus stops, suspicious vehicles, late-night activity and additional patrols. Marks encouraged residents to provide locations and vehicle information when possible and safe.
Her participation continued Wood’s commitment to work with the neighborhoods after hearing residents’ concerns firsthand two months ago.
Daniel stresses mentorship and community involvement
Community advocate and businessman Kendall Daniel focused much of his remarks on young people and conditions affecting neighborhoods.
Daniel said communities need to reach young people before their problems become law enforcement matters. He stressed mentorship, education and greater adult involvement.
He also discussed deteriorating neighborhoods, economic opportunities and the need for residents to become more involved in decisions affecting their communities.
Candidates address residents
Several candidates also spoke ahead of Louisiana’s November 3 congressional and local elections. The Louisiana Secretary of State lists November 3 as the congressional general and open congressional primary election date.
Lorenzo Davis Sr., a candidate for Alexandria mayor, discussed public safety, blighted properties, utilities and neighborhood investment. He also raised concerns about the proposed data center.
State Rep. Patricia “Pat” Moore, a candidate for Louisiana’s 5th Congressional District, discussed poverty, food assistance, criminal justice, youth development and voter participation.
Frances Tennie, a candidate for Rapides Parish School Board District D, focused on education and challenges facing students, teachers and families.
Smith urges residents to participate
Bishop Lynell Smith continued his push for community involvement throughout the meeting.
Smith urged residents to stay informed, learn where candidates stand and vote. He placed particular emphasis on getting younger residents involved in the civic process.
His message combined faith and civic responsibility. He encouraged residents to pray, get involved and go vote.
Throughout the meeting, that broader theme repeatedly surfaced: residents were encouraged to participate in decisions affecting their neighborhoods.
For emergencies, call 911. For other RPSO assistance or neighborhood concerns, call 318-473-6700. RPSO lists that number as its main office contact.
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