NEW ORLEANS —

Two top executives at Smitty's Supply in Tangipahoa Parish have been arrested and accused of beating a rape suspect.

On Aug. 22, Smitty's Supply went up in flames after an explosion on site. Advertisement

Flames burned for days, leaving lingering impacts to this day that remain under investigation.

The arrest of Ed Smith II and Chad Tate, two top-ranking officials at Smitty's Supply, has nothing to do with the explosion.

The two were arrested in October 2024 alongside Tate's brother-in-law, Jeremy Hudson.

All three are under investigation after they were accused of beating a man who is facing a first-degree rape charge, according to court records.

The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office made the arrests after the incident.

District Attorney Scott Perrilloux recused hi

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