Arrest Made in Overdose of Southeastern Student, Police Say. Police have made substantial progress in the Southeastern Louisiana University student overdose investigation. Recent event triggered rapid and detailed response from law enforcement and university administrators.
Hammond city officials say the Hammond Police Department, along with the Ponchatoula Police Department, the Southeastern Police Department, Louisiana State Police, the DEA, the ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, and the 21st JDC District Attorney’s Office, is investigating.
“We will punish anyone peddling dope that poisons or nearly kills people with attempted murder. We’ll pioneer drug dealer prosecution.” – Hammond Police Chief Edwin Bergeron
At a news conference on Thursday, March 28, investigators revealed that the victim was a local female student and that the overdose medications came from non-university sources.
Ponchatoula residents Mark Fridge III, 21, Shyheim Pines, 29, and Kawaiishh Brown, 50, were arrested for the overdose. Authorities said more charges may be filed against the trio, including attempted murder.
Chief Edwin Bergeron of Hammond Police said, “We are going to charge these criminals that are selling the dope that is poisoning or nearly killing people with attempted murder charges.” We will pioneer the fight against drug dealers.”
Mark Fridge allegedly bought heroin from Shyheim Pines and gave it to the student. A search warrant at Kawaiishh Brown’s home found many firearms and drugs, emphasizing the issue.
Chief Bergeron stressed that illicit substances threaten everyone, regardless of social or economic status. He advocated awareness and concerted action to fight the drug pandemic in communities.
Some students expressed concerns about campus drug use after the overdose. Claudia, a student, said the incident was expected given the local fentanyl issue. Using familial addiction as an example, she stressed the significance of not using drugs.
As authorities hold drug criminals accountable, it underlines the continuous struggle against substance misuse and the need for prevention and intervention to protect everyone, especially college students.
The arrest in connection with a Southeastern student’s overdose is a critical step toward justice and accountability as authorities fight drug-related crimes and their terrible effects.
Law enforcement organizations working together to combat drug trafficking and its dangers demonstrate their dedication. Authorities can stop the distribution of illegal drugs and punish offenders by working together.
The arrest of the three overdose suspects sends a message that drug-related offenses will be punished severely. The attempted murder accusations show how seriously law enforcement takes drug distribution and its harms.
Chief Edwin Bergeron of Hammond Police said law enforcement will aggressively pursue drug dealers, especially those who hurt others. Drug dealers are deterred by attempted murder charges.
The finding of firearms and drugs during Kawaiishh Brown’s home search highlights the interconnectedness of drug-related crimes and their propensity for violence. This seizure emphasizes the need for proactive law enforcement to remove dangerous weapons and illegal drugs from communities.
The perpetrators’ arrest gives finality to the inquiry but also calls for continuing vigilance and prevention. Addressing substance misuse requires education and awareness campaigns about drug risks and the significance of seeking help.
The student’s overdose highlights addiction’s devastating effects on individuals and families. It emphasizes the necessity for comprehensive support services and resources for addicts and their families.
Communities must work together to address drug abuse’s core causes and develop prevention, intervention, and treatment measures. We can make communities safer and healthier by encouraging support and initiative.
