Bossier man nabbed on timber theft

A Plain Dealing man has been arrested for timber theft valued at more than $10,000, according to the Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry.

Jamar S. Gay, 38, 122 Douglas Road, Plain Dealing, was arrested and booked into the Bossier Parish Detention Center Monday, June 15 and charged with theft of timber under $25,000 by LDAF investigators.

LDAF agents allege Gay cut and hauled 16 loads of timber from a property without permission between December and January. The timber was valued at $10,970. Gay was released on $10,000 bond on Monday.

"Timber is a valuable, long-term investment," said LDAF Commissioner Mike Strain. "It is imperative for landowners to pay close attention to activity on their property and immediately report suspected crime. LDAF enforcement agents take agriculture and forestry-related crimes seriously and they will seek justice when individuals break the law."

If convicted, Gay faces imprisonment, with or without hard labor, of up to five years, can be fined up to $5,000 or both.

LDAF enforcement agents were assisted by the Bossier Parish Sheriff’s Office with the investigation.

To report a timber theft, contact the LDAF office of Forestry at 225-925-4500 to file a complaint.