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Louisiana sheriff who attacked podcaster pleads guilty, resigns

(NewsNation) — A Louisiana sheriff is resigning after nearly 10 years in office after pleading guilty to charges related to an attack at a local restaurant.

Old St. Tammany County Sheriff Randy Smith pleaded guilty to misdemeanor second-degree felony battery and disturbing the peace by public intoxication during a recent court appearance.

Obtained court documents NewsNation local affiliate WGNO It shows Smith on May 29 approaching podcaster Bobby Couvillion, a frequent critic of Smith, and grabbing him and pulling him to the ground, where he repeatedly struck him.

Couvillion was hospitalized with a concussion following the attack and also had dental injuries.

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Smith was sentenced to two years probation and must also complete a “special court program expected to last 15 to 18 months.” He also agreed to resign as sheriff as part of the plea agreement.

His last day was Wednesday. According to local news source WWLTVSmith was sworn in as sheriff in July 2016.

“It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve this community,” Smith said in a statement, in part. “I am proud to leave this agency stronger than when I was elected. None of these accomplishments would have been possible without the dedication and professionalism of the men and women of the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office.”

“Thank you for the trust and support you have given me throughout my career. Serving the people of St. Tammany Parish has been the greatest honor of my professional life,” Smith continued.

Couvillion also issued a statement saying he was “grateful that the truth has come to light and that justice has not been swept under the rug simply because of those involved. No one – regardless of position or title – can use force against an innocent person without consequences. This outcome clearly sends that message.”

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