East Baton Rouge Sheriffs Office

Forever We Remember
July 17, 2016 – July 17, 2026

Ten years have passed since the day our community was forever changed, yet the loss of July 17, 2016, remains deeply felt.

On that morning, six law enforcement officers were ambushed while answering the call to serve. Deputy Brad Garafola, Sergeant Nick Tullier, Corporal Montrell Jackson, and Officer Matthew Gerald gave their lives protecting others. Corporal Chad Montgomery and Lieutenant Bruce Simmons were wounded in the line of duty and demonstrated extraordinary courage in the face of unimaginable violence.

A decade later, we still remember where we were, what we felt, and the profound grief that followed. For the families, friends, fellow officers, deputies, and first responders who lived through that day, the passage of time does not erase the loss.

These men were more than uniforms and badges. They were husbands, fathers, sons, friends, and public servants who loved their families and their community. Their lives were defined not by the violence that took them from us, but by their courage, compassion, faith, and willingness to stand between danger and others.

Their sacrifice continues to guide us. It reminds every person who wears the badge of the responsibility we carry and the courage required to serve. It also reminds us that hatred must never have the final word.

As Corporal Montrell Jackson wrote shortly before his death, “Don’t let hate infect your heart.” Those words remain as meaningful today as they were ten years ago.

To the Garafola, Tullier, Jackson, and Gerald families: we continue to stand with you. Your loved ones remain part of our law enforcement family, and their names, service, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

On this 10th anniversary, I ask our community to pause, remember these heroes, pray for their families, and honor their legacy by choosing unity, kindness, and respect for one another.

May God continue to comfort their families, protect all who serve, and bless our community.

Forever remembered. Never forgotten.

— Sheriff Sid J. Gautreaux III

Sometimes the most powerful moments aren’t planned they’re simply genuine. ❤️

This photo captures something truly special. The pure joy on our D.A.R.E. deputy’s face says it all. It’s more than handing out school supplies or greeting families it’s about building relationships, encouraging children, and showing our community that we genuinely care.

A smile like this reflects a heart dedicated to service. It reminds us that making a difference often begins with kindness, compassion, and showing up with love for the people we serve.

Thank you to all of our deputies and volunteers who helped make this week’s Back-to-School Event such a success. Your commitment to our children and families is what makes our community stronger. 💙📚🍎

EBRSO Arrests Man in Copper Wire Theft Investigation

The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office has arrested Adam Wayne Kelley, 42, in connection with an investigation involving the theft of copper wire from a Cox Communications work site and other locations in the area.

During the investigation, EBRSO detectives developed information linking Kelley to the theft of thousands of dollars worth of copper wire from private property. Detectives also connected the investigation to multiple recent incidents involving copper wire cut from Cox Communications infrastructure in the same vicinity. Surveillance efforts ultimately led to Kelley’s arrest. During the investigation, detectives also recovered numerous stripped copper wire casings at his residence.

Kelley was booked on charges of Theft, Criminal Trespass, and Possession of a Schedule II Controlled Dangerous Substance.

“These crimes affect far more than the property owner,” said Sheriff Sid Gautreaux . "When communication infrastructure is damaged, residents and businesses can lose internet and phone service, creating significant disruptions throughout our community. We take these offenses seriously and will continue to aggressively investigate those responsible.”

The East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office is actively working with Cox Communications and other community partners to investigate copper wire thefts, identify those responsible, and implement strategies to prevent future incidents. These collaborative efforts are focused on protecting critical infrastructure and minimizing service interruptions for the public.

Anyone with information regarding copper wire thefts is encouraged to contact the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office or submit an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers.