East Baton Rouge Councilmember Cleve Dunn indicted

Dunn faces bribery, money laundering, and other charges in CATS contract investigation

Jan. 28, 2026 at 2:07pm

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An East Baton Rouge Parish grand jury has indicted Councilmember Cleve Dunn on bribery, theft, money laundering, and other charges tied to an ongoing investigation into contracts at the Capital Area Transit System (CATS). Dunn is the latest individual indicted in the case, which has already resulted in multiple arrests.

Why it matters

The indictment of a sitting councilmember is a significant development in the CATS investigation, which has uncovered an alleged scheme involving the funneling of funds through CATS contracts. This case raises concerns about public corruption and the integrity of local government contracts.

The details

According to the indictment, Dunn faces charges of Conspiracy to Commit Felony Theft (over $25,000), Felony Theft over $25,000, Conspiracy to Commit Bribery, Bribery, Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering, Money Laundering, Public Contract Fraud, Illegal Splitting of Fees, and Malfeasance in Office. The investigation has already led to the arrests of four other individuals, including a former CATS chief administrative officer.

  • On January 14, 2026, Pearlina Thomas, 55, and Jay Colar, 35, were arrested and indicted on charges of stealing more than $25,000 by fraudulent means.
  • Last week, Terral Jackson Jr., 48, and Erica Jackson, 49, were arrested and indicted on charges of theft over $25,000 and criminal conspiracy to commit theft over $25,000.
  • On January 28, 2026, the East Baton Rouge Parish grand jury indicted Councilmember Cleve Dunn.

The players

Cleve Dunn

An East Baton Rouge Parish Councilmember who has been indicted on bribery, theft, money laundering, and other charges as part of the ongoing investigation into CATS contracts.

Pearlina Thomas

The former chief administrative officer for CATS who was arrested and indicted on charges of stealing more than $25,000 by fraudulent means.

Jay Colar

An individual who was arrested and indicted along with Pearlina Thomas on charges of stealing more than $25,000 by fraudulent means.

Terral Jackson Jr.

An individual who was arrested and indicted on charges of theft over $25,000 and criminal conspiracy to commit theft over $25,000.

Erica Jackson

An individual who was arrested and indicted along with Terral Jackson Jr. on charges of theft over $25,000 and criminal conspiracy to commit theft over $25,000.

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What they’re saying

“We expect additional indictments based upon this ongoing grand jury investigation.”

— Liz Murrill, Attorney General

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Cleve Dunn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing concerns about public corruption and the integrity of local government contracts in Baton Rouge. The indictment of a sitting councilmember raises questions about the extent of the alleged scheme and the need for greater oversight and accountability in the awarding of CATS contracts.