Two police officers for the Tangipahoa Parish town of Independence face charges in connection with a recent homicide.
The Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office booked 33-year-old Mitchell Rainey and 27-year-old Caitlyn Rainey on charges including malfeasance in office and obstruction of justice.
According to the sheriff's office, it involves the case of David Parnell Jr. Parnell's body was discovered January 23 in a home in the 53000 block of Crossover Road. Investigators say Mitchell Rainey, an acquaintance of the victim, removed evidence from the scene, without authority or informing the sheriff's office.
Caitlyn Rainey, Mitchell's wife, is accused of altering that evidence.
Detectives are still working to identify suspects in the murder.
"This is a disheartening situation, but we, as law enforcement officers, should always do the right thing," said Independence Police Chief Frank Edwards. "These two officers are currently on administrative leave without pay pending the termination process. We have cooperated fully with our partners at the Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff's Office and will continue to assist with this investigation as they request."
"I applaud the effort of our investigators to cover all angles of this case and I thank Chief Edwards for his cooperation and shared vision for a higher standard of expectations for those of us sworn to protect and serve," said Sheriff Gerald Sticker.
The sheriff's office is asking anyone with information about the crime to call Det. Russell Walker at (985) 902-2045.
Tips can also be submitted anonymously via Crimestoppers of Tangipahoa at (800) 554-5245, or by clicking here for the Crimestoppers online form.
Callers to Crimestoppers do not have to leave their names and may be eligible for a cash reward.
