New Police Chief Richard “Ricky” Martin has begun a renewed effort to solve three cold murder cases, including one going back to 2014.
The victims were:
•Casey Alexander, 28, who was shot during a home invasion in 2014.
•Bianca Davis, 23, fatally wounded when caught in the crossfire of a dispute in 2015.
•Susan George, 50,found dead in her burning home in a 2016 incident ruled a homicide.
Martin believes more evidence about these cases is probably available if the right people would come forward. Anyone with information about any of these crimes is asked to call the St. Martinville Police Department at 394-3001.
At the Dec. 18 city council meeting, the chief said he is instituting a schedule of regular opportunities for the public to communicate with him and voice concerns or ask questions. “Coffee With the Chief” will be held at various locations, which will be published at a later date.
Martin was authorized to hire two full-time officers, Bryce Ewing, a resident of Iota and former St. Martin Sheriff’s deputy, and Vaden Harbison of Arnaudville and also a former SMSO deputy. One part-time officer, Brion Theriot will also be added to the force.
In other business, a city employee is seeking a zoning variance allowing him to keep two horses on his property off Theatre Street. Michael Martin’s request is opposed by a neighboring property owner.
The objections were raised by Dist. 1 councilman Mike Fuselier. This caused some friction on the council, as the location is in Dennis Paul Williams’ district and he felt he should have been informed about the objections before the meeting.
A decision on the issue was tabled to allow city attorney Alan Durand to research the questions of whether a variance or just an exception is needed and whether the Health Department or Animal Control have any input to offer on the issue.
Property exceptions may be granted with a lower standard of neighboring owner approval, according to Planning and Zoning Administrator Shedrick Berard. He reported that six of the seven abutting property owners have given their permission, well over the 60 percent that he said is ordinarily required.
