Ville Platte Police Department achieves compliance

VILLE PLATTE - The United States Department of Justice has closed its investigation into the Ville Platte Police Department, concluding a federal civil rights review that began in 2015 and followed formal findings of unconstitutional detention practices in 2016.
The investigation focused on the use of "investigative holds," where individuals were arrested or detained without probable cause, which the DOJ said occurred over 700 times. In 2018, the city entered into a federal reform agreement requiring substantial changes to policies, training, supervision, and accountability within the department.
After years of federal oversight, the department has now satisfied those requirements.
Chief of Police Al Perry Thomas, who took office in 2023, led the department through the final phase of compliance.
"When I took office," Chief Thomas said, "the expectation was clear. We had to get this right. We stayed focus on doing the job the right way every day, and that is what brought us to this point."
Chief Thomas emphasized that compliance required consistent execution, not just written policy.
"We made sure our officers understood that the law requires and applied it in practice," he said. "That takes discipline, supervision, and accountability at every level."
The Department of Justice's closure confirms that the Ville Platte Police Department has met its obligations and demonstrated sustained compliance with constitutional policing standards.
Chief Thomas also addressed the broader importance of accountability within the department and local government.
"Accountability matters," said the chief. "Recent events have underscored how important it is that public officials and law enforcement operate within the law at all times. Our responsibility is to earn and maintain the public's trust through our actions."
Chief Thomas noted that the department's progress reflects a commitment to moving forward with clear standards.
"This department is focused on professionalism and integrity," the chief said. "We are committed to maintaining those standards going forward."
Chief Thomas also recognized the legal representation provided by attorneys Eric LaFleur and Wyatt Savant representing the Ville Platte Police Department in connection with the Department of Justice's inquiry and compliance process.
With the investigation now closed, the Ville Platte Police Department will continue operating under the policies and standards developed during the reform effort, with an ongoing focus on constitutional policing, accountability, and public trust.