OUACHITA PARISH, La. (KNOE) - The Ouachita Parish Police Jury meeting room was filled Tuesday night as community members gathered to voice their opinions on Police Jury President Shane Smiley following a recent controversy.

This was the first meeting since a video surfaced of Smiley using foul language toward one of his restaurant employees, sparking debate over his leadership role in parish government.

Some residents defended Smiley, saying his private business should not impact his public office.

It shouldn’t happen his [restaurant], private business got nothing to do with his performance here at the police jury. He does an excellent job as a President of the police jury,” West Monroe resident, Betty Armstrong said.

Others, however, called for his resignation, arguing Ouachita Parish

See Full Page