Basile officer arrested for agg. assault with a firearm

By: ELIZABETH WEST
Managing Editor

Basile Police Officer Nicholas Richardson was arrested on Friday, May 26, 2017, for aggravated assault with a firearm, simple battery and malfeasance in office.
Richardson, who is also employed by the Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office, was arrested following a confrontation in front of the residence of Darrell and Mia Reed - relatives of Richardson’s.
A video of the incident, which occurred on Wednesday, May 17, 2017, showed Richardson drive up to the Reed’s residence, exit the vehicle and then pull his gun out of its holster. The officer is then seen putting his gun back.
The Reed family alleged that during the confrontation Richardson said he was confronting the Reeds’ 14-year-old daughter because he claimed she had been bullying his daughter.
Throughout the course of the video, Mrs. Reed at one point is seen hitting Richardson with a broom stick.
Richardson finally left the scene after being asked to by the Basile Police Officers who responded to the incident.
Richardson’s father - Grayling Richardson - was also arrested in connection with this crime.
Following his son’s confrontation at the Reed residence, Grayling went to the Reeds’ and verbally and physically assaulted the residents.
Grayling was arrested on May 26, 2017 and charged with criminal trespassing and simple battery. He was released from the EPSO jail the same day on a $2,000.00 bond.
Richardson was also released that same day on a $18,000.00.
Following the officers arrest, KVPI reported that Richardson has been put on indefinite suspension without pay.