Two Webster Parish Sheriff’s Office (WPSO) narcotics officers have been elected to top positions in Region 1 of the Louisiana Narcotics Officers’ Association (LNOA), a prominent organization with over 400 members statewide.
Capt. Bobby Igo III, who heads the WPSO narcotics unit, has been appointed as the president of Region 1, which comprises nine parishes in northwest Louisiana. Det. Sgt. Shawn Jenkins, also from Igo’s unit and currently assigned to a federal task force, has been named the Sergeant At Arms.
The LNOA is divided into seven regions across the state, with Region 1 including Caddo, Bossier, Webster, Claiborne, Bienville, Red River, DeSoto, Natchitoches, and Sabine parishes.
Igo, a veteran of the WPSO since 2005, has progressed through the ranks from dispatch to patrol and eventually to the street crimes unit. In 2011, he transitioned to a detective role focusing on narcotics, eventually assuming leadership of the narcotics unit in 2019.
As president, Igo’s responsibilities include organizing and executing quarterly training sessions where more than 30 Region 1 agents convene to discuss cases and exchange ideas and investigative techniques. Additionally, he plays a crucial role in securing sponsorships to fund LNAO training programs.
Jenkins, a 14-year law enforcement officer with accolades from the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) for his expertise in narcotics investigations, joined the WPSO eight years ago after serving six years with the Minden Police Department. Over the last six months, Jenkins has been part of the DEA’s regional task force.
Jenkins has already been recognized with a DEA Certificate of Appreciation, commending his professionalism and spirit of cooperation as “…an extremely effective tool when attacking drug trafficking organizations.”
Igo highlighted the value of having Jenkins on the DEA task force, noting that it enhances the WPSO narcotics unit’s resources and capabilities through networking. The task force’s focus extends across a multi-parish area from Alexandria to Ruston, broadening the scope of investigations.
The WPSO narcotics unit, comprising Igo, Jenkins, and Sgt. Josh McCormick, is described by Igo as a cohesive team that works exceptionally well together. Igo emphasized the unit’s dedication to its mission, viewing their work in narcotics investigations and enforcement as a calling to help individuals and families affected by drug-related issues.
Approximately 90 percent of all crimes have ties to narcotics, according to Igo, who emphasized the unit’s focus on apprehending drug dealers while offering assistance to those struggling with addiction.
Reflecting on the impact of their work, Igo shared satisfaction in seeing individuals turn their lives around after encounters with narcotics officers, highlighting the importance of treating everyone with respect and understanding.
In a joint statement, Capt. Bobby Igo III and Det. Sgt. Shawn Jenkins expressed their commitment to serving their community and combating drug-related crimes.