Iberia Parish Sheriff's Office

09/15/2026

The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office held a special awards ceremony today, where deputies were recognized in the presence of their family members for their response to the tragic incident that occurred during the Laos New Year celebration on April 4, 2026.

That day, our deputies were faced with a serious and fast-moving situation where the safety of many people was at risk. They responded quickly, stayed focused under pressure, worked together, and handled an extremely difficult scene with calm judgment and care. In moments like that, there is very little time to hesitate. Our deputies relied on their training, each other, and the responsibility they carry to protect the public. The way they responded that day made a difference, and their actions did not go unnoticed.

Several deputies were also presented with Life Saving Awards for actions taken during the incident that helped save lives.

Recognized during today’s ceremony were Lt. Chad Suire, Sgt. Matthew McFarland, SPC. Craig Gregory, Lt. Jerod Landry, Sgt. Kevin Thomas, Lt. Grant August, Dty. Anne-Marie Richard, Lt. Corey Derouen, and Sgt. Todd Anslum.

Sheriff Tommy Romero is proud to recognize these men and women for the way they responded that day and for the strength, composure, teamwork, and compassion they showed throughout such a difficult situation.

09/14/2026

⭐ EMPLOYEE SPOTLIGHT ⭐

Meet Deputy Mariah Joseph, who will celebrate two years with the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office this October and currently serves as a Classifications Deputy.

During her time with IPSO, Deputy Joseph has continued to strengthen her communication, problem solving, and leadership skills while gaining valuable experience in corrections and law enforcement. She joined the Classifications Division in February, where she has quickly proven herself to be a dedicated and motivated member of the team.

Deputy Joseph has completed the Police Academy twice and holds both POST I and POST II certifications. Her commitment to learning extends beyond law enforcement training. She holds an Associate’s degree in General Studies and a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice with a minor in Law.

Outside of work, Deputy Joseph is the proud mother of two daughters and one son. She enjoys spending time with her family, making memories, and appreciating the moments in life that can sometimes be overlooked. In her free time, she also enjoys cooking, shopping, and decorating.

When asked what she loves most about law enforcement, Deputy Joseph says it is the opportunity to serve others, maintain safety, and make a meaningful difference. Her experience working in corrections has taught her the importance of patience, accountability, communication, and treating everyone with dignity and respect, regardless of the circumstances.

Deputy Joseph especially values the growth she has experienced during her time with IPSO. Working alongside experienced members of the agency has given her a deeper understanding of the justice system, corrections, and law enforcement while allowing her to continue serving her community.

Her goals do not stop there. Deputy Joseph hopes to continue her education and one day become an attorney, allowing her to continue a career centered around serving, protecting, and helping others.

FROM HER SUPERVISOR

“Deputy Joseph has quickly proven to be an asset since joining Classifications in February. She is eager to learn different areas of the jail and takes initiative in completing tasks as well as lending a hand to others. Her dedication and ambition will serve her well.”

The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office is proud to recognize Deputy Mariah Joseph for her ambition, dedication, willingness to learn, and commitment to serving others. We are proud to have her as part of the IPSO family and look forward to watching her continue to learn, grow, and pursue her goals.

09/12/2026

09/11/2026

A special thank you to Pellerin Funeral Home and their staff for hosting a Patriot Day Memorial and First Responder Appreciation Lunch today.

Sheriff Tommy Romero, deputies, and members of the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office administration were grateful for the opportunity to attend, enjoy a wonderful meal, and spend time with fellow first responders and members of our community.

We truly appreciate the time, effort, and hospitality shown by everyone who helped make today’s gathering possible.

Thank you for thinking of our first responders and for continuing to support the men and women who serve our community each day.

09/11/2026

Sheriff Tommy Romero would like to thank Azaleas for having him at their First Responders Breakfast this morning.

It was a pleasure to spend time with everyone and be part of such a thoughtful event recognizing the men and women who serve our community each day.

We truly appreciate the warm welcome, hospitality, and continued support shown to our first responders.

09/11/2026

On Thursday, September 10th, Sheriff Tommy Romero and deputies of the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office took part in the induction of Iberia Middle School’s Jr. Deputies.

This program gives students a unique opportunity to learn about leadership, responsibility, service, and the important role law enforcement plays in our community.

Sheriff Romero and our deputies spent time speaking with the students, sharing their experiences, answering questions, and encouraging them to always lead with character, respect, and purpose.

Congratulations to Micah Mitchell on being selected as the first Jr. Deputy of the Month! We are proud of Micah and all of the students who have chosen to be part of this program.

A special thank you to SRO Aubrey Picard, Iberia Middle School’s School Resource Officer, for her leadership, dedication, and all the hard work she puts into the Jr. Deputies program. Your hard work will make a lasting impact on these students and the leaders they are becoming.

We look forward to watching these Jr. Deputies grow, lead, and continue making a positive impact at their school and in our community.

09/11/2026

UPDATE: ROADWAY OPEN

Jefferson Island Road from North Grand Prairie Road to the Highway 90 Frontage Road is now open.

Thank you for your patience.

ROAD CLOSURE

Jefferson Island Road is currently closed from North Grand Prairie Road to the Highway 90 Frontage Road due to a vehicle crash.

Please avoid the area and use an alternate route.

09/10/2026

PRESS RELEASE

On Wednesday, September 9, 2026, at approximately 3:00 a.m., deputies with the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office responded to the 1900 block of Diver Drive after receiving reports of suspicious activity on the property.

Upon arrival, deputies located an unoccupied 2006 GMC Sierra near the business and began searching the area for the suspect.

During the search, deputies located a wagon containing tools inside one of the buildings. The suspect attempted to flee on foot.

Deputies quickly established a perimeter and continued searching the surrounding area. With assistance from the New Iberia Police Department and its drone unit, the suspect, identified as 46-year-old Jeremy Lopez, was located and taken into custody.

Lopez was arrested and booked into the Iberia Parish Jail on the following charges:

La. R.S. 14:62 – Simple Burglary
Outstanding Warrant

No bond has been set at this time.

The Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office would like to recognize the deputies involved for their quick response, communication, and teamwork. We also thank the New Iberia Police Department for its assistance. The use of their drone was instrumental in helping deputies locate Lopez after the perimeter was established.

This matter remains under investigation by the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office. Nothing further will be released at this time.