Louisiana Mayor Tyrin Truong Arrested in Drug-Trafficking Investigation
Louisiana Mayor Tyrin Truong, aged 25, was recently arrested for his alleged involvement in a drug-trafficking investigation in the Bogalusa area. Truong faces charges of engaging in transactions related to drug offenses, solicitation of prostitutes, and unauthorized use of movable property.
Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill emphasized zero tolerance for misconduct, especially from public officials, praising the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies involved in the investigation.
The investigation, led by the Louisiana State Police Narcotics and Violent Crime Task Force, began in April 2024 targeting a drug-trafficking organization operating in Bogalusa. This operation, spanning several months, involved cooperation between multiple agencies including the 22nd Judicial District Court District Attorneyâs Office, the Louisiana Department of Environmental Quality, and Murrillâs office.
The DTO was found to be distributing opioids, high-grade marijuana, THC products, and MDMA, among other controlled substances. Social media platforms were used by members of the organization to facilitate drug distribution and manage payments, enabling the expansion of criminal activities.
Proceeds from drug sales were allegedly utilized to purchase firearms, some of which were distributed to individuals prohibited from possessing firearms, linking them to violent crimes in the Bogalusa area.
Following the execution of search and arrest warrants, seven alleged members of the organization were apprehended. Among those arrested were MacKenzie Lynn Cefalu, De-Saleem Wali Pittman, Dirul S. Pittman, Salehal-Dien Malike Pittman, Tonya Renee Stage, and Devan Michael Williams, all residents of Bogalusa. Like Truong, these suspects were charged with engaging in transactions related to drug offenses.
Four of the suspects were also charged with conspiracy to distribute a schedule I controlled dangerous substance, with additional charges for specific individuals. Truongâs bond was set at $150,000, and all suspects were booked into the Washington Parish Jail.
Despite these arrests, investigations into other individuals and matters related to the case are ongoing. District Attorney Collin Sims affirmed the commitment to assisting Bogalusa citizens and pledged to continue investing resources into the community.
Truong made history in 2022 at the age of 23 when he became the youngest mayor of Bogalusa, defeating the incumbent Wendy OâQuin Perrette. His victory marked him as one of the youngest mayors in Louisianaâs history, showcasing a promising political career that has now been overshadowed by the recent allegations.
Truongâs office has not responded to requests for comments on the matter, as the legal proceedings continue to unfold.
