2 fugitives wanted for murder found in Louisiana

AVOYELLES PARISH, La. (WNTZ) – On or about May 23, 2024, the Avoyelles Parish Grand Jury returned a True Bill of Indictment on 26-year-old Zeandre Ballard of Marksville, La. for Attempted 2nd Degree Murder, Home Invasion, and Aggravated Assault with a Firearm.

On May 29, 2024, the 12th Judicial District Court issued an Arrest Warrant on the aforementioned charges. The bond was set at $250,000.00.

The Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office (APSO) and the Marksville Police Department were actively working together to find and apprehend Zeandre Ballard. APSO and MPD Narcotics Agents also already knew Ballard was actively distributing illegal drugs and were gathering and exchanging intelligence on his activities.

The extensive joint investigation subsequently revealed that Ballard resided at 155 Chauffpied Elmer Road, lot #17, in Marksville, Louisiana. Upon the execution of search warrants at that address, Ballard was taken into custody. Illegal Drugs and Firearms (one stolen) were also found.

Additionally, Ballard and 24-year-old Kentrakus Clayton of Marksville were each arrested for Possession of Schedule I “Marijuana” with intent to Distribute (Felony), Possession of a firearm by Convicted Felon (Felony), Possession of Stolen Firearm (Felony), Illegal Carry of Weapons with Narcotics (Felony). Agents seized 28 bags containing approximately 4.14 pounds of Marijuana and 2 firearms hidden with the illegal drugs (see photos below). They were booked at APSO DC-1 for the aforementioned offenses. No bonds have been set for these charges at this time. Both subjects are still in custody at APSO.

Avoyelles Parish Sheriff David L. Dauzat would like to thank the Marksville Police Department, Tunica-Biloxi Tribal Police Department, and Louisiana State Police Troop E for their assistance and teamwork with APSO in safely capturing this fugitive and seizing the firearms and Illegal Drugs.