Department of Agriculture and Forestry, State of Louisiana - Mike Strain DVM, Commissioner

Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., said the Natchitoches Parish Sheriff’s Office arrested a Campti man today on felony timber charges.

Bobby R. Armstrong, 54, 6421 Hwy. 9, was arrested based on evidence collected by Louisiana Department of Agriculture and Forestry (LDAF) enforcement officers and charged with one count of failure to remit payment for timber.

According to the LDAF investigation, Armstrong cut timber valued at $6800 from the Taylor Richard estate in Natchitoches Parish in June and July 2010. Armstrong sold the timber to a mill but allegedly failed to remit payment to the Richard estate.

LDAF Enforcement Officer Jason Watts conducted the investigation, Strain said.

“The LDAF considers timber theft a serious charge,” Strain said. “All complaints regarding timber theft will be thoroughly investigated by my office.”

Strain said all forestry and farm related crimes issues may be reported to the LDAF by calling 225-925-4500 or 800-558-9741. The toll free number can be used to report livestock or farm equipment theft.