One of Louisiana’s youngest mayors arrested in connection with drug-trafficking investigation
Bogalusa Mayor Tyrin Truong Arrested in Drug-Trafficking Investigation
Louisiana Mayor Tyrin Truong, 25, was arrested on Tuesday for his alleged involvement in a drug-trafficking investigation conducted by authorities in his home state. The charges against Truong include engaging in transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, solicitation of prostitutes, and unauthorized use of movable property.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill expressed zero tolerance for wrongdoing, especially from public officials, and commended the law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation. The Louisiana State Police Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force initiated the investigation into a drug-trafficking organization operating in the Bogalusa area in April 2024.
The investigation revealed that the DTO was distributing opioids, high-grade marijuana, THC products, and MDMA, among other controlled substances. The organization used social media platforms to distribute drugs and manage payments, which facilitated their criminal activities and expanded their reach.
Authorities also discovered that the profits from drug sales were used to purchase firearms, some of which were distributed to individuals prohibited from possessing a firearm. Additionally, some firearms were linked to violent crimes in the Bogalusa area.
Multiple search and arrest warrants were obtained and executed, resulting in the arrests of seven alleged members of the organization, including Truong. The other suspects arrested were MacKenzie Lynn Cefalu, De-Saleem Wali Pittman, Dirul S. Pittman, Salehal-Dien Malike Pittman, Tonya Renee Stage, and Devan Michael Williams, all from Bogalusa.
The suspects face charges related to engaging in transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Truong’s bond was set at $150,000, and all seven suspects were booked into the Washington Parish Jail.
District Attorney Collin Sims emphasized that the investigation is ongoing, and additional matters and individuals are still under scrutiny. Truong, who became the mayor of Bogalusa at the age of 23 in 2022, has not yet commented on the charges.
The community of Bogalusa has been rocked by the arrest of their mayor, and residents are looking to law enforcement to continue their efforts to ensure the safety and well-being of the city. The case serves as a reminder of the importance of holding public officials accountable for their actions and upholding the law.
