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St. James Today
By the People, for the People
St. James Parish Deputy Fired After Arrest for Solicitation of Minor, Obstruction of Justice
Authorities say the deputy requested explicit images and videos of minors in exchange for money.
Published on Feb. 12, 2026
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A St. James Parish Sheriff's deputy was fired and arrested after a joint investigation involving the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, the Louisiana Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, and the St. James Parish Sheriff's Office. The deputy, Tykeim Simoneaux, was accused of requesting explicit images and videos of minors in exchange for money, as well as obstruction of justice and other charges.
Why it matters
This case highlights the importance of law enforcement agencies taking swift action against any allegations of misconduct, especially those involving the exploitation of minors. It also underscores the need for robust background checks and ongoing monitoring of officers to ensure public trust and safety.
The details
Authorities said the investigation began after the sheriff's office received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, forwarded through the Louisiana Attorney General's Office. Simoneaux, 23, was terminated and arrested shortly afterward, booked into the St. James Parish jail on charges of indecent behavior with a juvenile, computer-aided solicitation of a minor, malfeasance in office with evidence tampering, and obstruction of justice.
- On February 11, 2026, the St. James Parish Sheriff's Office received the tip at 11:26 a.m.
- On February 11, 2026, Simoneaux was removed from training at the Lafourche Parish POST Academy and brought to the Sheriff's Office in Convent.
- On February 11, 2026, Simoneaux was terminated at 7:25 p.m. and arrested shortly afterward.
The players
Claude Lewis Jr.
The Sheriff of St. James Parish, who emphasized that protecting children is a priority and that no one is above the law, including those who wear the badge.
Tykeim Simoneaux
A 23-year-old St. James Parish Sheriff's deputy who was fired and arrested on charges of indecent behavior with a juvenile, computer-aided solicitation of a minor, malfeasance in office with evidence tampering, and obstruction of justice.
What they’re saying
“I took an oath to protect and serve the citizens of St. James Parish. Protecting children is a priority and no one is above the law, including those who wear the badge.”
— Claude Lewis Jr., Sheriff of St. James Parish (lobservateur.com)
What’s next
The judge will determine whether to grant bail for Tykeim Simoneaux at a hearing on February 18, 2026.
The takeaway
This case highlights the critical need for law enforcement agencies to maintain the highest standards of integrity and accountability, especially when it comes to the protection of vulnerable members of the community. It serves as a reminder that no one is above the law, and that swift action must be taken to address any allegations of misconduct or criminal behavior within the ranks of law enforcement.
