In a turn of events, the Louisiana State Police announced the loss of Sergeant Grant Candies, who was killed in the line of duty yesterday. Sergeant Candies, a devoted husband and father, died while attempting to deploy spike strips to stop a fleeing vehicle on Interstate 10 near the Oak Harbor exit. The social media post from the STPSO details his service as a Marine and a dedicated law enforcement officer who began working with STPSO in 2016.

The passing of Sergeant Candies is deeply felt within the STPSO community. He is remembered for his professional achievements as well as his dedication to his family. He is survived by his wife, Courtney, and two children, Brenna and Bryson. Despite receiving recognition, including being named Deputy of the Year for 2023, Candies was known for prioritizing his team and community. He believed his success was measured by the success of his team.

Sheriff Randy Smith and the members of STPSO have openly expressed their profound grief over Sergeant Candies' death. St. Tammany Parish Sheriff's Office honors his legacy as a leader and protector. His career in law enforcement, as outlined in the tribute, followed a stint of five years on active duty and three years on inactive duty in the United States Marine Corps. He brought the principles of military discipline and leadership to his role as Field Training Officer in the Criminal Patrol Division of the STPSO.

Sergeant Candies' career was influenced by his family’s law enforcement background and his connection to the community he served. Growing up with a father who served over 30 years with the St. Charles Parish Sheriff's Office, he chose to follow in his footsteps. Sergeant Candies remained committed to his role in law enforcement throughout his career, mentoring deputies and shaping their future. "When my team succeeds, I have succeeded," a sentiment reflected in the STPSO's remembrance post.