Bogalusa Mayor Tyrin Truong was arrested Tuesday morning and charged as part of a major investigation into a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) operating in the Bogalusa area. Truong is being charged for soliciting prostitutes, unauthorized use of a movable, and transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses.

The Louisiana State Police Narcotics/Violent Crime Task Force (NVCTF) launched the investigation in April 2024, uncovering the DTO’s involvement in distributing opioids, high-grade marijuana, THC products, and MDMA. The operation revealed that DTO members used social media platforms to facilitate drug sales and manage payments, while proceeds from drug trafficking were used to purchase firearms, some of which were linked to violent crimes.

Truong, along with six other individuals, was named in the investigation. Tyrin Truong, 25, was charged with two counts of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, unauthorized use of a movable, and soliciting for prostitutes.

MacKenzie Lynn Cefalu, 24, faces charges of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses and conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance. De-Saleem Wali Pittman, 24, has been charged with transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses, conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance and distribution of a Schedule II controlled dangerous substance.

Dirul S. Pittman, 22, is charged with transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses. Salehal-Dien Malike Pittman, 26, is also charged with transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses. Tonya Renee Stage, 51, faces charges of transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses and conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance.

Devan Michael Williams, 28, is charged with transactions involving proceeds from drug offenses and conspiracy to distribute a Schedule I controlled dangerous substance. These charges stem from an extensive investigation into a drug trafficking organization in the Bogalusa area. Authorities uncovered the distribution of controlled substances, the use of social media to facilitate transactions, and the purchase of firearms connected to violent crimes.

Truong was elected to the post in November 8, 2022, at age 23, which made him the youngest chief executive in city’s history. His plan going into office was to decrease crime and corruption and bring life back to Bogalusa.

He was born in Mandeville and raised in Bogalusa. Truong graduated from Washington University in St. Louis, Missouri, having studied political science and African American studies. He had said his education prepared him to interact with politicians and gave him a to start his work as mayor.

Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill emphasized the importance of holding public officials accountable. “We have zero tolerance for wrongdoing, especially from public officials. I’m very proud of all the law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation,” she said. District Attorney Collin Sims assured residents, “We are going to continue to invest time and resources into helping the citizens of Bogalusa. We are not finished.”

A press conference is scheduled for this afternoon, and further updates will be provided as the investigation progresses.

Alexander Moraski of Bogalusa Daily News contributed to the bulk of this story.