Washington Parish and Franklinton first responders received plenty of praise for their efforts following last week’s tornado emergency. The Era-Leader asked Sheriff Jason Smith and Franklinton Police Chief Justin Brown to comment:
•SHERIFF JASON SMITH
“I’m thankful there was no loss of life and I want to commend the communications deputies who worked so diligently through the storm to ensure the response of law enforcement, fire, public works, DOTD, and the utility companies was properly coordinated. Thank you, Katherine Ordoyne and Abigail Knight.”
•CHIEF JUSTIN BROWN
“In coordination with Homeland Security and the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Franklinton Police Department, Fire Department, and Public Works monitored the severe weather and subsequently responded to areas which were most affected.
The Mayor and police officers were on the scene immediately following the damage on South Main Street to insure no one was injured, and to assist as needed.
Officers continued to conduct damage assessments throughout the night and to provide extra patrols for those who were without power.”
