A St. Mary Parish Sheriff’s Office employee was arrested and fired Wednesday following an internal investigation into an alleged off-duty incident in Bayou Vista.
David Leonard Sr., 61, of Berwick, was arrested September 23 on a charge of simple battery. According to the Sheriff’s Office, a woman filed a complaint Tuesday alleging Leonard struck her at a local business. The agency’s Office of Professional Standards investigated the complaint. The Sheriff’s Office said evidence, including video, substantiated the allegation.
Leonard was released on a summons to appear in court. His employment was terminated at the time of his arrest. Leonard previously served as the Chief of Police for the Town of Berwick.
Sheriff Gary Driskell said the law applies to law enforcement employees and that the office holds its staff to high standards of conduct and professionalism.
