Louisiana Law Threatens 20 Years in Prison for Cross Lake Fishermen

Outdated state law prohibits urinating in public water supplies, raising concerns for local anglers.

Jan. 30, 2026 at 11:07am

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A recent report has uncovered an obscure Louisiana law that threatens up to 20 years in prison for anyone caught urinating in the state's public water supplies, such as Cross Lake in Shreveport and the Red River in Bossier City. The law, which dates back to 2014, is intended to protect water quality but raises questions about its enforcement and impact on common activities like fishing and boating.

Why it matters

This little-known law highlights the existence of outdated statutes in Louisiana that could potentially criminalize everyday behavior. While the intent may be to safeguard public health, the severe penalties raise concerns about proportionality and whether the law is still relevant or enforceable in modern times.

The details

Louisiana Revised Statute 14:58 states that "Contaminating water supplies is the intentional performance of any act tending to contaminate any private or public water supply." If the act "foreseeably endangers the life or health of human beings," the penalty is up to $1,000 in fines and 20 years in prison. Even if no health risk is present, the law still carries a potential fine of $500 and 5 years imprisonment.

  • The law was originally enacted in 2014.

The players

Louisiana Revised Statute 14:58

A state law that prohibits the contamination of public water supplies, with penalties of up to 20 years in prison.

Cross Lake

A reservoir that serves as the primary water supply for the city of Shreveport, Louisiana.

Red River

A major river that flows through Bossier City, Louisiana and is another public water source for the region.

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What’s next

Legal experts and local officials will likely need to review the applicability and enforcement of this law, especially as it relates to common recreational activities on public waterways.

The takeaway

This case highlights the need to periodically review and update outdated laws that may no longer align with modern realities and community norms. While the intent behind protecting water supplies is understandable, the severe penalties of this Louisiana statute raise concerns about proportionality and potential overreach.