Local Man Convicted of First-Degree Murder and Kidnapping

The trial in the case of State of Louisiana v. Kevontay Haynes began Monday March 10, 2025, in the Ouachita Parish Courthouse. Kevontay was charged with First- Degree Murder and Second-Degree Kidnapping for the February 9, 2024, homicide of Jessica Douglas. The trial concluded Friday, March 14, 2025, before a jury of twelve
people. The jury deliberated less than thirty minutes before unanimously finding Haynes guilty as charged of the First-Degree Murder and Second-Degree Kidnapping of Jessica Douglas.

The case was tried before Honorable Walt Caldwell, IV. Assistant District Attorneys Charlotte Farshian and Mike Fontenot represented the State in the prosecution. The Defendant was represented by attorney Bobby Underwood. The Defendant will be formally sentenced at hearing to be scheduled by the Court. The victim’s family members will be given the opportunity to provide a statement to the court prior to the Defendant’s sentence being imposed.