Two Webster Parish deputies, both assaulted by inmates while on duty, were left fighting not only for their health but also against the very administration sworn to protect them.
According to reports, instead of prioritizing the deputies’ medical needs, the Sheriff’s Office threatened them with unpaid FMLA leave—essentially punishing them for injuries sustained while protecting the public. This callous approach raises serious concerns about how employee welfare is valued under Sheriff Jason Parker’s leadership.
In one case, a deputy was forced to switch doctors mid-treatment because the Sheriff’s Office changed its insurance provider. The original physician, who had already been handling the deputy’s care, was suddenly out of network. This interruption in medical treatment not only jeopardized recovery but added unnecessary stress to an already traumatic situation.
The message from administration was clear: employees injured in the line of duty are seen less as people to care for, and more as liabilities to minimize. Such practices leave many questioning the Sheriff’s commitment to both his staff and the safety of the community.
This is not the first time concerns about deputy welfare have surfaced. Complaints of delayed emergency responses, denial of medical treatment, and retaliation against employees have circulated for years, painting a troubling picture of a department that prioritizes image and finances over the health and well-being of its workforce.
Call to Action:
If deputies are treated this way after risking their lives, what does that mean for public safety and accountability? Citizens of Webster Parish deserve transparency, accountability, and leadership that truly values those who serve on the front lines.
