Drug Attempt in Courthouse Leads to Chase and Arrest!

Courthouse drug attempt leads to arrest after foot pursuit in Marksville

An attempted drug handoff inside the Avoyelles Parish 12th Judicial District Courthouse in Marksville has raised fresh concerns about security and contraband control within one of the parish’s most secure public buildings.

Authorities say the incident unfolded around 11 a.m. on May 5 when Carnelious Dominick entered the third floor of the courthouse and attempted to pass an unknown package to an inmate appearing for a scheduled court proceeding.

Deputies assigned to courthouse security observed the interaction and immediately intervened.

According to the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office, Dominick fled on foot, prompting a pursuit that extended beyond courthouse grounds.

Law enforcement later located Dominick hiding inside a shed at a residence on Brouillette Street in Marksville. He was taken into custody without further incident.

Several businesses located near the courthouse reported hearing sirens during the incident and said the sudden law enforcement response caused concern among employees who were unsure what was happening. Some business owners noted that similar situations have occurred more than once, adding to growing unease in the area.

Investigators say the case underscores ongoing challenges in preventing the introduction of illegal narcotics into judicial facilities, where inmates, visitors and staff intersect daily under controlled conditions.

Dominick was booked into the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office DC-1 facility on multiple charges, including resisting an officer and several felony drug offenses.

Those charges include possession of Schedule I substances with intent to distribute, including synthetic cannabis and heroin, as well as possession of Schedule II methamphetamine and Schedule III Suboxone with intent to distribute.

While officials have not indicated whether additional individuals may be involved, the nature of the incident highlights the risks associated with attempted contraband exchanges during court proceedings.

The sheriff’s office credited the Marksville Police Department and Louisiana State Probation and Parole agents for assisting in establishing a perimeter that led to the arrest.

Authorities encourage anyone with information regarding criminal activity to contact the Avoyelles Parish Sheriff’s Office or the Avoyelles Communications Center at 318-253-4000.

All persons are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.