DeWoody pleads

Philip Dewoody, who was accused of the 2020 kidnapping and first degree murder of Ville Platte resident Joyce Thomas, pleaded guilty Wednesday, March 17. He also pleaded guilty to the aggravated kidnapping and rape of another woman. For his latest crimes, Dewoody has been given three consecutive life sentences.
Dewoody’s plea deal was approved by his surviving victim and her family, as well as Thomas’ family. By making a plea of guilty, Dewoody avoided the death penalty.
In a press release, District Attorney Chad Pitre said, “Finally justice was delivered today for these two victims and their families.”