Louisiana State Police Sgt. Arrested for Cocaine Distribution

As evidence custodian, he had a reliable supply

An 18-year veteran State Police sergeant was arrested Monday in Monroe on a variety of criminal violations, including narcotics distribution, according to Superintendent of State Police Col. Mike Edmonson.

42-year-old Ronald O. Thomas is accused of public payroll fraud, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine, malfeasance in office and obstruction of justice. Before his arrest, Thomas had been assigned as the evidence custodian for northern Louisiana investigative operations.

Col. Edmonson disclosed the details of the arrest after flying to Monroe Tuesday afternoon to personally take possession of the sergeant's badge, credentials and state-issued weapon.  At the time of his arrest, Thomas was immediately suspended from duty pending the outcome of an administrative investigation.

(H/T Mark Twain)