Louisiana Senator Receives Death Threat Over Legislation

Suspect arrested and charged with felony public intimidation and retaliation

Apr. 8, 2026 at 9:37pm

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An extreme close-up photograph of a crumpled piece of paper, the surface texture and shadows creating a dramatic, investigative mood without revealing any specific written content.A chilling physical reminder of the threats faced by elected officials in the course of their public service.New Orleans Today

Louisiana state Senator Jay Morris and his family received a threatening voicemail message over his legislation to consolidate judges and clerks in New Orleans. The suspect, Charles Allen, was arrested in Texas and will be extradited to face felony charges.

Why it matters

Threats against elected officials are a serious concern for public safety and the democratic process. This incident highlights the need for robust security measures and prompt law enforcement response to protect lawmakers and their families.

The details

In the recorded message, the suspect made explicit threats to kill Senator Morris and his family, referencing the senator's legislation and telling him to 'stop playing with my people.' Louisiana State Police provided security detail for the senator's home until the suspect was arrested. The suspect, Charles Allen, has a previous criminal history and will be charged with one felony count of public intimidation and retaliation, which carries up to 5 years in jail.

  • The threatening voicemail was left on Senator Morris' legislative office phone.
  • The suspect, Charles Allen, was arrested in Arlington, Texas, on a warrant generated by the Ouachita Parish District Attorney.

The players

Senator Jay Morris

A Republican state senator from Monroe, Louisiana who received the death threat over his legislation to consolidate judges and clerks in New Orleans.

Charles Allen

A 40-year-old resident of Metairie, Louisiana who was arrested and charged with one felony count of public intimidation and retaliation for leaving the threatening voicemail message.

Steve Tew

The Ouachita Parish District Attorney who is prosecuting the case against Charles Allen.

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What they’re saying

“It was ominous, explicit and disconcerting. My wife is scared to death.”

— Senator Jay Morris

“We take him at his word; we're going to prosecute him.”

— Steve Tew, Ouachita Parish District Attorney

What’s next

The suspect, Charles Allen, will be transported from Texas to Monroe, Louisiana this week to face the felony charges.

The takeaway

This incident underscores the need for elected officials and their families to have robust security measures in place, as well as the importance of swift law enforcement response to address any threats of violence against public servants.