Full Breakdown
St. Tammany Sheriff Randy Smith Resigns After Guilty Plea for Drunken Assault on Critic
6/25/2026, 10:41:52 PM
The Guilty Plea and Immediate Resignation
On May 29, 2026, Sheriff Randy Smith, after a $346 tab of wine, martinis, vodkas and gin at Keith Young’s Steakhouse in Madisonville, approached podcaster Bobby Couvillion from behind, placed a chokehold, slammed him to the floor and struck him. Couvillion suffered a concussion and displaced front teeth. Smith was arrested June 4, pleaded guilty June 24, and resigned the same day.
Background and Smith’s Career
Smith won the sheriff’s race on July 1, 2016, succeeding Jack Strain, later convicted of bribery and child sexual abuse. Smith served six years as Slidell police chief and spent 33 years with the St. Tammany Sheriff’s Office, totaling 40 years in law enforcement. His tenure highlighted pay raises and a 95 % case-clearance rate.
Timeline of Key Events
- May 29, 2026 – Assault at Keith Young’s Steakhouse.
- June 4, 2026 – Smith and bail bondsman Gregory Saurage arrested.
- June 23, 2026 – Smith posted $10,000 bond and issued an apology.
- June 24, 2026 – Guilty plea entered; resignation effective 1 p.m.; Bret Ibert named interim sheriff.
- June 27, 2026 – Voters to decide a $13 million millage renewal.
Injuries, Charges, and Penalties
Couvillion’s records confirm a concussion and two displaced front teeth. The plea requires 15-18 months of probation, enrollment in an 18-month alcohol-treatment program, and permits reduction of the felony to a misdemeanor upon completion. Smith’s $10,000 bond was posted; his pension remains intact, and an alcohol monitor may be imposed.
Impact on Funding and Public Trust
Law-enforcement leaders urged support for the June 27 millage, stressing the case should not jeopardize the $13 million budget for deputies’ salaries and equipment. Critics argued the assault undermined public confidence and highlighted accountability concerns.
Official Statements & Responses
District Attorney Collin Sims said the plea shows “everyone will be held accountable,” referencing his earlier prosecution of former sheriff Jack Strain. Attorney General Liz Murrill called the agreement “fair and reasonable.” Interim sheriff Bret Ibert pledged “stability, continuity, and leadership.” Parish President Mike Cooper thanked Smith for his service while noting the need for community healing.
Criticism & Opposition
Concerned Citizens of St. Tammany and several residents publicly demanded Smith’s resignation. Chief Deputy Jeff Boehm also resigned, citing the scandal’s impact on departmental morale.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I’m going to kill you, you motherfucker,” — Bobby Couvillion, victim
- “Justice has been served for the residents of St. Tammany Parish and the state of Louisiana,” — Bobby Couvillion
- “We treat him like we treat every other citizen that commits an act like that.” — District Attorney Collin Sims
- “I have ignored hundreds of personal attacks directed at me by an individual who hides behind a computer screen,” — Randy Smith
What’s Next
Smith will enter the 21st Judicial District Court’s Specialty Court Program; successful completion could downgrade the felony. Gregory Saurage faces separate charges. Bret Ibert serves as interim sheriff until the November election. The June 27 millage vote will decide whether the sheriff’s office retains its $13 million budget.
