Simmesport, LA (7/12/2024) – On July 11, 2024, the Simmesport Police Department (SPD) faced a shocking incident that led to the arrest of one of its own officers. The SPD requested the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations/Alexandria Field Office (LSP AFO) to investigate a burglary at their department headquarters after discovering that three firearms, a ballistic vest, and a mobile radio were missing.
The investigation quickly pointed to SPD Officer Kentravious Prater as the suspect. Evidence gathered during the investigation implicated Prater in the theft of the missing items. Subsequently, LSP AFO obtained a warrant for Prater’s arrest.
On the same day, Prater was arrested and charged with aggravated burglary, possession of stolen firearms, possession of stolen items, criminal damage to property, and malfeasance in office. He was then booked into the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Jail.
The Louisiana State Police will continue to lead the investigation, which remains active and ongoing. No further information is available at this time.
The Louisiana State Police encourages the public to report suspicious or criminal activity through their online reporting system. The system provides a convenient, anonymous, and secure way to submit information to the appropriate investigators. The reporting form can be accessed by visiting lsp.org and clicking the “Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity” link.
This incident has undoubtedly shaken the Simmesport community and the police department, as trust in law enforcement officers is crucial for maintaining public safety and order. The SPD and LSP are committed to ensuring a thorough investigation and maintaining transparency throughout the process.
All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty.
