| id | cleanReleaseDate | troopName | title |
| 1333 | 2016-02-09 | Troop B | Two Separate Arrests Clear Bank Robberies and Yields Weapons and Narcotics |
TROOP B - NEWS RELEASE February 9, 2016 Two Separate Arrests Clear Bank Robberies and Yields Weapons and Narcotics Orleans Parish – Last night, Troopers assigned to the Mardi Gras 2016 detail arrested six individuals, one of which was responsible for at least 10 armed bank robberies and 8 armed robberies in various locations across the south east portion of the United States. Christopher Simms (age 30) of New Orleans, was arrested at approximately 5:45 pm on February 8, 2016 after Troopers witnessed Simms making threats to a motorist in the 900 block of Canal Street. Simms told a passing motorist that he would have shot the car if he had gotten hit. While questioning Simms, Troopers learned that he had five open warrants for his arrest: two for armed robbery in Jefferson Parish, two for armed robbery in New Orleans and one for armed robbery in Kenner. During the investigation, Troopers learned that Simms was responsible for two armed robberies earlier on February 8, 2016 at the Family Dollar located at 2125 Canton Street and the Liberty Bank located at 2714 Canal Street. Simms also confessed to robbing at least ten banks at gunpoint (two banks in each of the following states: Florida, Alabama, Georgia, Louisiana and one in Tennessee and Mississippi). He further admitted to armed robberies in west Louisiana and Mississippi. Simms was transported to Central Lock-up and booked on the active warrants. LSP Detectives are continuing their investigation with the FBI, NOPD, JPSO, KPD and other outside state agencies. Shortly after 8:00 pm last night, Troopers were on foot patrol in the 1000 block of Bienville Street. They observed an individual, later identified as Basin Wells (age 29), conduct an illegal narcotics transaction in a 2009 Nissan Maxima in a private parking lot. As Troopers approached the vehicle, they observed narcotics and weapons in the vehicle. Wells and three other suspects were placed in custody. During a search of the vehicle, Troopers seized three illegally possessed guns, 47 grams of heroin, 3.5 grams of marijuana, two bottles of Promethazine, nearly $14,000 in cash and a stolen license plate. Detectives are working with NOPD and are continuing the investigation. Additional charges may be forthcoming. The following individuals were arrested, transported to Central Lock-Up and charged with:
Contact Information: TFC Melissa Matey Louisiana State Police – Troop B Public Affairs Section Office: (504) 471-2780 Melissa.matey@la.gov www.LSP.org www.facebook.com/LouisianaStatePolice | |||
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