Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries enforcement agents arrested two subjects and cited another subject for alleged violations committed on a Wildlife Management Area (WMA) in Avoyelles Parish on Feb. 25.

Agents arrested Bernard M. Rowe, 26, of Marksville, for discharging a firearm from a public road, possession of marijuana and possession of a firearm with obliterated numbers. Agents also arrested Tyrik J. Ballard, 24, of Marksville, for discharging a firearm from a public road, illegal carrying of a firearm while in possession of a controlled dangerous substance (CDS) and possession of marijuana with intent to distribute.

Agents were on patrol on the Spring Bayou WMA in Avoyelles Parish on Feb. 25 when they heard numerous gunshots in the area of the Boggy Bayou Boat Launch. Agents responded to the scene and made contact with a truck with four occupants inside.

During questioning, agents smelled the distinct odor of marijuana coming from inside the vehicle. Agents also found that Ballard was in possession of 86.77 grams of marijuana, a 9mm pistol and drug paraphernalia indicative of distribution. Agents also found Rowe in possession of marijuana and a 9mm pistol with the numbers obliterated.

Agents arrested Rowe and Ballard and booked them into the Avoyelles Parish Detention Center. Agents also cited the operator of the vehicle, Deallesio Frank, 24, of Moreuaville, for driving on an access restricted area on the WMA.

Possession of marijuana with intent to distribute carries up to a $50,000 fine and one to 20 years in jail. Possession of marijuana brings up to a $100 fine. Possession of a firearm with obliterated numbers carries up to a $1,000 fine and one to five years in jail. Possession of a firearm while being in possession of a CDS carries up to a $10,000 fine and five to 10 years in jail.

Not abiding by WMA rules and regulations brings up to a $350 fine. Discharging a firearm from a public road brings up to a $50 fine and 30 days in jail.

Agents seized the two 9mm pistols and 86.77 grams of marijuana.

LDWF Agents involved in the case are Capt. John Volentine, Lt. Derek Ware, Sgt. Douglas Anderson Jr., Corporal Kenny Robertson and Senior Agent Callie Pitre.