Published: 09-01-2026 | Category: CID
REGION 2 NEWS RELEASE
September 1, 2026
Oakdale Police Officer Arrested on Abuse of Office and Malfeasance Charges
Oakdale – On August 19, 2026, detectives with the Louisiana State Police Criminal Investigations Division began investigating a criminal complaint involving an Oakdale Police Department officer. The investigation resulted in the arrest of 33-year-old Jalen Melbert of Oakdale.
During the investigation, detectives learned that Melbert attempted to use his position as a law enforcement officer to influence a victim to engage in sexual activity. Detectives also learned that, during a separate incident, Melbert coordinated with another individual to plant illegal narcotics at a residence, which led to the arrest of an unsuspecting individual.
As a result of the investigation, detectives obtained an arrest warrant through the 33rd Judicial District Court, charging Melbert with Abuse of Office and Malfeasance in Office.
On August 31, 2026, at approximately 1:30 p.m., Melbert was arrested and booked into the Allen Parish Jail on the above charges. This investigation remains active and ongoing and additional charges may be forthcoming.
Oakdale Police Chief Kevin Johnson issued the following statement: “The Oakdale Police Department is fully cooperating with Louisiana State Police to ensure a thorough and impartial investigation. We take all allegations of misconduct seriously, and the alleged actions do not reflect the standards we expect of our officers. Maintaining the integrity of our department and the trust of the community we serve remains a top priority. Because this matter is part of an ongoing legal process, we cannot provide additional comment at this time.”
To report suspicious or criminal activity in your community, the Louisiana State Police online reporting system is available to the public through a convenient, anonymous, and secure reporting form that is submitted to the appropriate investigators. The form can be accessed by visiting lsp.org and clicking Report Suspicious or Criminal Activity.
Contact Information:
Trooper Roy Jones
Louisiana State Police
Public Affairs Section – Troop D
Office: (337) 491-2511