A meteorologist from Louisiana, recently appointed to lead weather coverage at WDSU, is facing serious legal issues after allegedly breaking into his girlfriend’s residence and assaulting her while her children were asleep nearby last Sunday.
Devon Lucie, who took over as chief meteorologist in August, was arrested on charges including domestic violence, child endangerment, and resisting arrest by failing to provide his identity, as reported by Nola.com.
According to the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the 48-year-old Lucie had attended a festival in Gretna, located just outside New Orleans, with his girlfriend. Following an argument, they decided to part ways for the evening.
After his girlfriend was driven home by her mother, Lucie reportedly showed up at her house, forcibly entering the property.
Following an argument, he allegedly left the scene but returned shortly thereafter, assaulting her as her two children were asleep in the living room, as indicated in the reports.
Lucie’s mugshot displayed two prominent scratch marks on his nose, which he sustained during the incident.
The victim told authorities she acted in self-defense, resulting in multiple cuts and scratches on her upper body, as well as bruising on her forehead and face.
During the police encounter, Lucie reportedly refused to provide his name and birth date and declined to treat his visible injuries.
WDSU has since placed Lucie on administrative leave while an investigation is underway.
As a father of two, Lucie succeeded a long-term chief meteorologist who retired after 45 years with the station, as stated on WDSU.
Since graduating from Western Illinois University in 1997, he has worked at various news stations across the country.
If you or someone you know is experiencing similar issues, please reach out to the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1.800.799.SAFE (7233) or text START to 88788.