Elizabeth West/Ville Platte Gazette
Former Basile Police 0fficer and part-time Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Deputy Nicholas Richardson appeared before Judge Chuck West on Aug. 24 for his arraignment after being arrested in May for felony aggravated assault with a firearm, simple battery, and malfeasance in office.
Richardson was arrested following an altercation that took place at the residence of Darrell and Mia Reed on May 17.
Video surveillance from the residence showed Richardson getting out of his police cruiser, pulling his gun from his holster and then returning it during an altercation with the Reeds
Following the incident, Richardson was indefinitely suspended from the Basile Police Department.
During his court appearance on Thursday, Richardson, who does remain employed by the sheriff’s office, pleaded not guilty to the charges.
His trial date was set for Oct. 16 in Judge Gary Ortego’s courtroom.
Also appearing in court that day was Richardson’s father, Grayling Richardson, who was arrested in connection with crime after allegedly returning to the scene and verbally and physically assaulting the residents.
Grayling was charged with criminal trespassing and simple battery.
His trial date has been set for Oct. 16 in Judge Ortego’s courtroom.