Coushatta –On Thursday, April 28, 2022, the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations Bossier Field Office (LSP/BFO) was requested by the Red River Parish Sheriff’s Office (RRPSO) to investigate an allegation that an on-duty deputy was involved in a hit-and-run crash while driving a marked RRPSO patrol unit. The crash occurred on US Hwy 71 at the intersection of US Hwy 84. The deputy was identified as 29-year-old Melvin Reliford, of Coushatta.

Through investigative means, it was found that the crash occurred as reported. A warrant was submitted and approved for the arrest of Reliford. Earlier today, Reliford turned himself in and was booked into the Red River Parish Jail on one count of Malfeasance in Office and one count of Injuring Public Records.

LSP/BFO will serve as the lead investigating agency. The investigation remains active and ongoing. No further information is available, at this time.

The Louisiana State Police online reporting system is also available to the public through a convenient and secure reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. Citizens can access the form by visiting www.lsp.org and clicking the Suspicious Activity link.