Police Arrest Multiple People for Firearms, Drugs at Mardi Gras Parades

Authorities in Louisiana apprehended suspects with guns and other illegal items during recent Carnival celebrations.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Police in several Louisiana cities made a series of arrests related to firearms, drugs, and other offenses during Mardi Gras parades this week. In Patterson, two people were charged with possessing firearms on parade routes, while in Franklin, one man was arrested for illegally carrying a gun at a parade and having drugs. Authorities said they were able to apprehend the suspects before any violence occurred.

Why it matters

The arrests highlight ongoing public safety concerns around Mardi Gras celebrations, which can attract large crowds. Law enforcement is tasked with maintaining order and preventing potential violence or other criminal activity during these popular annual events.

The details

In Patterson, police arrested Eris A. Robinson and Kamiah K. Riley, both of whom were allegedly carrying Glock 9mm handguns on the Krewe of Amani Parade route. In Franklin, Brice Jones was charged with possessing a firearm as a felon, illegally carrying a weapon at a parade, and drug offenses. Authorities said they received information about plans to bring weapons to the parades and were able to make the arrests before any incidents occurred.

  • On Monday, February 17, 2026, the arrests in Patterson occurred between 3:09 p.m. and 4:11 p.m.
  • On Tuesday, February 18, 2026, the arrest in Franklin occurred at 2:07 p.m.

The players

Eris A. Robinson

A 43-year-old resident of Patterson, Louisiana who was arrested and charged with possession of firearms with obliterated numbers, possession of a firearm on a parade route, disturbing the peace, possession of marijuana, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Kamiah K. Riley

A 25-year-old resident of Patterson, Louisiana who was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm on a parade route, resisting an officer, illegal carrying of a firearm, and possession of marijuana.

Brice Jones

A 31-year-old resident of Franklin, Louisiana who was arrested and charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, illegal carrying of a firearm at a parade, illegal carrying of weapons with drugs, possession of marijuana, and possession of hallucinogenic plants.

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What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

What’s next

The judge in the cases will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow the suspects out on bail.

The takeaway

These arrests underscore the ongoing challenges law enforcement faces in ensuring public safety during large-scale events like Mardi Gras parades, where the presence of firearms and drugs can pose serious risks to the community.