Caddo Parish sets process, deadlines to pick interim Ward 8 constable after Patrick Young resignation

The Caddo Parish Commission voted to advance consideration of appointing an interim Ward 8 constable to a special session on Thursday and set an expedited process for candidate review.

Commissioner Stormy Gage Watts moved to advance the item for selection procedures (not to appoint a specific person); Commissioner Stefan Jones seconded. The motion passed with 11 in support, none opposed, and one absent.

Clerk told commissioners the resignation letter creating the vacancy was dated Jan. 9, and the secretary of state’s confirmation started a 20‑day vacancy period that would end Jan. 29. To ensure the commission can fill the seat before a gubernatorial appointment becomes automatic, commissioners agreed to accept resumes and letters of interest through the close of business Wednesday to the clerk’s email (jeverson@keto.gov). Candidates invited on Thursday will be allotted up to five minutes to present and may be asked follow-up questions.

Two candidates were already attached to the electronic agenda: Heather Butcher, who addressed the commission and outlined law-enforcement credentials, and John M. Lorek, Justice of the Peace for District 48, who urged a prompt appointment so court operations are not hampered. Butcher described her career as a reserve sheriff beginning in 2009, time as a Shreveport police patrol officer, investigative work at Centenary, a sergeant role at Webster Sheriff’s Office, and current private‑investigator work. Lorek noted the need for an appointed constable so the court can serve papers and run properly.

Commissioners debated applying a general resume requirement for appointments going forward; some said resumes should be standard practice, while others said prior parish practice already provides comparable candidate time and scrutiny. Administration confirmed two resumes were already filed and attached to the agenda.

Next steps: resumes and letters of interest received by the clerk by COB Wednesday will be circulated to commissioners; candidates will be given five minutes each on Thursday for presentations before selection.