St. Bernard Parish Sheriff’s Office moved swiftly on Wednesday to capture an individual accused of armed robbery in Poydras, a terse reminder of the ever-present threat of crime in the community. Brendell Smith, an 18-year-old from New Orleans, faces charges for the crime that shook a quiet parking lot at midday, just over 24 hours ago. According to a statement from Sheriff James Pohlmann, no physical injuries were reported, though the psychological toll of such an event often goes unchronicled. Smith's charges include armed robbery and illegal possession of a firearm with an altered or obliterated serial number.
The robbery, reported to have occurred shortly after 11 a.m. in the 200 block of Bayou Road, began when Smith approached an adult male, brandished a firearm, and demanded money. A swift reaction from Special Investigations Division agents resulted in Smith’s apprehension nearby. "Fortunately, no one was physically harmed during the robbery," Sheriff Pohlmann said. The detectives’ efforts led to the recovery of $500 in cash and the weapon in question, a Smith & Wesson .9mm handgun, as per the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office.
Further investigations by the Criminal Investigations Bureau implicated Jamyre Bailey, a 24-year-old resident of Poydras, as an accessory after the fact. Bailey is also facing charges on various outstanding warrants, including aggravated assault, resisting an officer, criminal damage, and simple battery. The collaborative effort between different divisions within the sheriff’s office showcases an often-unseen but highly effective network of crime prevention and justice.
The sheriff's office has encouraged anyone with additional information about the incident to come forward. Calls to (504) 271-2501 or the Criminal Investigations Bureau’s tip hotline at (504) 271-TIPS (8477) can be made anonymously, offering a potential pathway to a cash award from Crimestoppers for those seeking justice or peace of mind. "Callers can leave a detailed message, and either choose to provide their contact information or remain anonymous," added the St. Bernard Parish Sheriff's Office.
