Former DPS Employee Arrested for Theft

Baton Rouge – On January 29, 2024, Investigators from the Louisiana State Police Bureau of Investigations - Criminal Investigations Division arrested a former Department of Public Safety (DPS) employee for various charges. The investigation resulted in the arrest of 36-year-old DeKara J. Levy of Baton Rouge.

The investigation began earlier this month when Investigators learned of possible fraudulent purchases made by a DPS employee. Investigators were able to determine that on multiple occasions in 2023, Levy utilized her department-issued credit card to make personal purchases. Levy made the fraudulent purchases while employed with DPS.

As a result of the investigation, an arrest warrant was obtained through the 19th JDC charging Levy with LRS 14:134 - Malfeasance in office (1 felony count), and LRS 14:67 - Theft (1 misdemeanor count). On January 29, 2024, Levy was booked into the East Baton Rouge Parish Prison on the above charges. Levy resigned from her position with DPS prior to being arrested. This case remains under investigation.

Contact Information:
Lt. Jared L. Sandifer
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section
Office: (225) 925-6202
jared.sandifer@la.gov