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NATCHITOCHES, La. -- A five-month criminal investigation has led to the arrest of a former Natchitoches Parish sheriff’s deputy for allegedly having an inappropriate relationship with a juvenile, according to Natchitoches Parish Sheriff Stuart Wright.
Javen R. Etienne, 23, of Youngsville, surrendered to the sheriff's office Wednesday. He was booked into the LaSalle Corrections/Natchitoches Detention Center on a charge of indecent behavior with a juvenile. He's since been released on a $75,000 bond.
The investigation began in August when the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office received a complaint of alleged allegations that a sheriff’s deputy assigned to the Patrol Operations Bureau was allegedly involved in an inappropriate relationship with an underaged person. An offense report was completed and forwarded to the NPSO Criminal Investigation Bureau for further investigation.
Information obtained during the initial stages of the investigation resulted in the immediate termination of Etienne. Command staff promptly collected his commission card, duty weapons, and all other sheriff’s office-issued property at the time of his termination.
Detectives continued an extensive investigation, which included interviews with the victim, additional potential witnesses, and the collection of forensic evidence.
During the course of the investigation, detectives executed at least 12 search warrants. Based on the evidence gathered, detectives established sufficient probable cause to obtain an arrest warrant, which was signed by a Tenth Judicial District Judge.
Wright issued the following statement regarding the arrest: “The Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office holds its employees to the highest standards of conduct and professionalism. When these serious allegations were brought to our attention, immediate action was taken, and a thorough and comprehensive investigation was conducted. Any behavior that violates the law or undermines the trust placed in this office by the citizens we serve will not be tolerated. The vast majority of our deputies put on the uniform each day with honesty and integrity to service and protect the citizens of Natchitoches Parish. Our priority remains the safety of our community and the protection of our children, and we are committed to transparency and accountability in all matters.”
This investigation remains ongoing.
Etienne was employed with the NPSO less than one year.