A six-month-long investigation by Department of Agriculture and Forestry enforcement officers culminated with the sentencing of a Homer man Monday, Agriculture and Forestry Commissioner Mike Strain, D.V.M., said.

Tommy Lee Evans, 59, of 396 Pias Davis Road, Homer, appeared before 2nd Judicial District Judge Jimmy Teat and pled guilty to stealing more than $18,000 worth of timber from two Claiborne Parish landowners.

“I hate to see anyone cheated and am pleased when one of the department's investigators is able to see a theft case through to conviction and sentencing,” Strain said.

The conviction was the result of complaints filed by Claiborne Parish landowners Sandra Causey of Homer and Porter Bell of North Brunswick, New Jersey.

According to Jim Baldwin, forestry enforcement manager, Evans contracted with both landowners between July and December 2005 to legally log their timber and failed to pay for all the loads cut from the properties.

“Of the 115 loads that came off both properties, we found eight loads belonging to Mrs. Causey valued at $14,160 and four loads valued at $4,317 belonging to Mr. Bell that had not been paid for,” Baldwin said.

Judge Teat sentenced Evans to two five-year concurrent sentences and suspended the sentences. Evans was placed on five years supervised probation and ordered full restitution along with a $1,000 fine.

To report suspected timber theft or other agriculture and forestry related crimes, call a LDAF district office or 1-866-927-2476.