Vernon Parish man accused of timber theft

A Vernon Parish man is accused of timber theft in Rapides Parish following an investigation of Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry Enforcement agents, according to LDAF.

James R. Fredieu was arrested by Vernon Parish Sheriff's Office deputies Sept. 10. He was later booked into the Rapides Parish Jail on one count of timber theft under $25,000, according to an LDAF press release.

The press release said enforcement agents responded to a timber theft complaint Aug. 19 where a landowner alleged a logger had failed to pay for all timber harvested from the owner's property. After reviewing logging records and financial documentation, agents allege that more than $12,000 in timber proceeds had not been paid to the landowner and they identified more than $10,000 worth of timber that was "allegedly harvested but not reported to the landowner."

Fredieu was released on $5,000 bond from the Rapides Parish Jail on Sept. 10, less than an hour from the time of his booking.

"Timber is a valuable resource for Louisiana landowners and we take allegations of timber theft seriously," said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain. "Our enforcements agents will continue to investigate these complaints and work to protect landowners and Louisiana forest resources."

Strain reminds landowners and timber producers to carefully monitor timber sales and keep accurate records.

LDAF Enforcement agents investigate timber theft and other violations involving Louisiana's forest resources. Agents work with landowners and industry professionals to investigate complaints and protect property rights. Strain also reminds people that anyone accused of a crime is considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.